Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav arrived at Hotel Amaltas in Pachmarhi on Tuesday and paid his respects at the sacred place of worship of the Korku/Mavasi community. On this occasion, members of the Korku tribal community welcomed him enthusiastically, presenting a traditional Gatha dance as part of their cultural tradition.
On this occasion, a 26-member troupe gave a captivating performance of the traditional tribal Gatha dance, accompanied by musical instruments such as the dholak, timki, and jhanj. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav encouraged the tribal artists by joining in with the Jhanjh-Manjira and announced an incentive of Rs 5,000 for each artist. During the programme, senior members of the community shared with Dr. Yadav the beliefs and historical significance of the sacred place of worship. The Chief Minister also had a cordial interaction with Shri Manish Bhopaji, a descendant of Raja Bhabhut Singh.
Smt. Guddi Sheelu and Shri Vijay Sheelu of the community said that the stone structure situated at the Shraddha Sthal is considered very sacred in the Korku Mavaasi community. This structure was established by Raja Bhabhut Singh, who is considered a symbol of the ancestors of the community. According to the belief, this structure is made of Sapta Dhatu.
Raja Bhabhut Singh Ji, a nature lover, established this sacred Gatha Sthal in Pachmarhi, which continues to be a revered centre of faith for the Korku Mavasi community. The Sthal has hand-carved wooden boards that feature symbolic engravings, including images of the sun and moon, depictions of the deceased riding a horse, the date of their passing, the date of the Gatha ceremony, and illustrations of ancestral figures. Additionally, the boards also bear images of ancestors from the Kutumb clan whose gatha ceremonies have yet to be performed. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav commended the community for its dedicated efforts in preserving its rich cultural heritage and traditions.