Teeja-Pora Tihar Celebrated with Joy and Unity at Chief Minister’s Residence

TFP Bureau,Raipur; Sep 14, 2023: The spirit of Teeja-Pora Tihar echoed through the Chief Minister’s residence in Raipur as women from across Chhattisgarh gathered to celebrate this cherished festival. The occasion was marked by vibrant displays of cultural traditions, mehendi artistry, and heartfelt camaraderie.

In a tradition that has endured through the years, women festively adorned themselves with Alta on their feet and intricate Mehendi designs on their hands. Their enthusiasm was palpable as they received sarees and makeup items, thoughtfully bestowed upon them as gifts.

This annual event saw women from every corner of the state come together to celebrate Teeja-Pora Tihar. Women like Mrs. Shobha Chahil, Mrs. Taruna Sharma, and Mrs. Sharda Kashyap of Bilaspur expressed their deep connection to this tradition. They explained that visiting the Chief Minister’s residence had become a cherished annual pilgrimage, where they felt a sense of belonging akin to being in their “Mayka” or mother’s house. During the poignant “Bidai” ceremony, they received beautiful sarees, makeup items, and enjoyed delectable Chhattisgarhi dishes as tokens of affection.

Joining this joyous gathering were Mrs. Seema Baghel, Mrs. Dulari Verma from Bhilai, Mrs. Satyawati from Durg, and Mrs. Asha Chauhan of Raipur. They, too, extended their gratitude to Chief Minister Shri Bhupesh Baghel, acknowledging Teeja-Pora as a festival that unites the mothers, sisters, and daughters of Chhattisgarh. Their shared celebration resonated with a sense of togetherness and joy.

Chief Minister’s Residence Becomes a ‘Maayka’:

Chief Minister Shri Bhupesh Baghel and his family played hosts to this heartwarming Teeja-Pora Tihar celebration, where the Chief Minister’s residence transformed into a ‘Maayka’ for the women of the state. The festivities were marked by dancing, cultural performances, and the exchange of Teeja gifts.

During the event, Chief Minister Baghel worshiped Lord Shankar and Mata Parvati, offering prayers for the prosperity of farming by symbolically worshiping the plough and Nandi (the sacred bull). He engaged with the women in attendance, enjoyed cultural programs, took part in the swings, and relished the flavors of delicious Chhattisgarhi cuisine.

In his address, Chief Minister Shri Bhupesh Baghel commended the socially aware and actively participating women of Chhattisgarh, leaving a lasting impression on visitors to the state. He emphasized the government’s commitment to empowering women through various initiatives and ensuring their financial well-being. The government’s declaration of holidays for special occasions like Teeja, World Tribal Day, Karma Jayanti, and Chherchera Punni has allowed the people of Chhattisgarh to celebrate these festivals with greater enthusiasm.

Empowering Women and Ensuring Prosperity:

The Chief Minister highlighted the government’s contributions to the well-being of the state’s citizens, with approximately Rs 1.75 crore being directly transferred to people’s accounts through schemes such as Kisan NYAY Yojana, Labour Welfare Scheme, and Godhan NYAY Yojana. He also noted that Chhattisgarh had been free from famine for the past five years, a testament to the state’s progress.

Furthermore, Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel outlined measures taken to protect women’s rights, including making individuals who commit crimes against women ineligible for government jobs. He also mentioned the introduction of government-run English medium schools, providing children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds the opportunity for quality education.

Women’s Role in Progress:

Smt. Anila Bhediya, Minister for Women and Child Development, emphasized the significance of respecting and empowering women as a cornerstone of national greatness. She expressed her gratitude to Chief Minister Shri Bhupesh Baghel for spearheading initiatives to enhance women’s education, security, and empowerment, further advancing the state’s progress.

The Teeja-Pora Tihar celebration was presided over by Smt. Kiranmayee Nayak, Chairperson of the State Women’s Commission. Distinguished guests, including Shri Girish Dewangan, Chairman of the State Mineral Development Corporation, Smt. Sangeeta Sinha, Parliamentary Secretary, and MLAs Devati Karma, Smt. Savitri Mandavi, and Smt. Anita Yogendra Sharma, along with a large number of women from across the state, graced the occasion with their presence.

In this spirited celebration, Teeja-Pora Tihar became a symbol of unity, empowerment, and cultural richness in Chhattisgarh, reflecting the state’s commitment to progress and inclusivity.