Chaitra festival dance

About Chaitra festival dance

The Chaitra festival dance is another famous dance of the Gonds of Bastar district; it is performed after the harvest to thank goddess Annapurna for the harvest already gathered and to seek her blessings for the next crop. Men and women dance in a circle, in semi-circles or in rows; all dancers hold each other’s waist.

A peacock feather on the head is a distinctive mark and the dancers wear colourful costumes, adorning themselves with garlands of shells and pearls. As the dancers go round in rhythmic movements, their feet beat to the music of the Shehnai, Nagada, Timki, Tapri, Dholak and Maduri. Sometimes, the Singha and Kohuk; wind instruments are also played.

The Rina is the women’s dance. It is called Tapadi among the Baigas. The Gond women of Mandla district start the Rina just after the festival of Diwali.

In the Chaitra fair held at Biaora (Malwa), the Dhup Dehi ka Mela of Hirapur (Rewa Division), the Ram Navami fair of Naya Gaon, the Bhilat Baba ka Mela of Seoni and the Gal Yatras held at over two dozen villages of Malwa are worth mention.

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Best time to visit Chaitra festival dance

As per event schedule; typically October-April

How to reach Chaitra festival dance

Nearest airport: Raja Bhoj Airport, Bhopal (varies by location). Nearest railway station varies. Well-connected by state highway and regular bus services from major MP cities.

Timings & opening hours

Varies by festival/event; typically evening performances during fairs

Entry fee & tickets

Free at festivals; cultural shows INR 100-500

Duration needed

1-2 hours per performance

Location info

Madhya Pradesh, India.

Safety tips

Carry water, wear comfortable shoes, keep emergency contacts handy, supervise children

Things to carry

Comfortable clothing and shoes, water bottle, camera, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, first aid kit

Nearby visiting places

Nearby attractions include local temples, monuments, and natural landmarks; check local tourism office.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest airport: Raja Bhoj Airport, Bhopal (varies by location).

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Madhya Pradesh. 4G is reliable in Bhopal, Indore, Gwalior, Jabalpur, and along national highways. Coverage may be weaker in deep forest areas of Kanha, Bandhavgarh, and Pench national parks. Most hotels and resorts in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

Food & restaurants nearby

Food options are available in the nearest town. Madhya Pradesh cuisine — dal bafla, poha, bhutte ka kees, Bhopali kebabs, and Indori namkeen — offers distinctive regional flavours.

Hotels & accommodation nearby

Accommodation is available in the nearest town or city. MP Tourism hotels and wildlife lodges offer reliable mid-range options across the state.

History of Chaitra festival dance

Traditional folk dance form originating from the cultural traditions of Madhya Pradesh, passed down through generations.

Things to do at Chaitra festival dance

Watch live performances; Participate in community dancing; Photography (with permission); Learn about dance history and style.

Things to visit & highlights

Nearby attractions include local temples, monuments, and natural landmarks; check local tourism office.

Climate & weather

Madhya Pradesh has a subtropical climate with three distinct seasons. Winter (October–March) is the best time to visit: temperatures range from 8°C to 28°C with clear skies and pleasant days — ideal for wildlife safaris and temple visits. April–June is very hot, with temperatures reaching 42–45°C in most areas. The monsoon (July–September) brings moderate to heavy rainfall, making the landscape lush green, though wildlife parks close during peak monsoon.

Helpline & emergency contacts

Police: 100, Ambulance: 108, Fire: 101; MP Tourism Helpline: 1800-233-1111; District helpline varies by location.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pumps available within 1-5 km of most tourist sites; major highways have regular fueling stations every 20-30 km. In remote areas, fill up at the nearest town before travelling.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I watch performances? At local festivals, cultural venues, and dedicated performance spaces in Madhya Pradesh cities.

Is the performance free or ticketed? Many festival performances are free to attend; dedicated cultural shows may cost INR 100-500 per person.

Can I take photographs during the performance? Photography is usually allowed but flash may be prohibited; it is polite to ask performers beforehand.

Quick facts

• Type: Destination
• State: Madhyapradesh
• Category: Music And Dance