The annual Maa Kali idol installation tradition dates back to 1984, while ten days of devotional Jasgeet performances and the felicitation of senior citizens and folk artists remain key attractions.
Published on: October 13, 2026
By: BTNI
Location: Rajnandgaon, India
The Maa Kali Utsav Samiti’s grand celebration at Brahman Gandhi Chowk in Brahmanpara has emerged as a major centre of faith and cultural activity during Navratri. The beautifully decorated pandal and the imposing idol of Maa Kali are attracting devotees in large numbers. Located along Sheetla Mandir Road, the venue is known for its devotional atmosphere and longstanding cultural traditions.
Devotees spend time at the pandal to seek blessings and witness the fierce and radiant form of Maa Kali, which is traditionally associated with the destruction of evil forces and the embodiment of strength and courage. Religious beliefs associated with the Devi Mahatmya and Durga Saptashati further deepen the faith of devotees visiting the shrine.
Maa Kali Festival Tradition Dates Back to 1984
The history of religious and cultural activities in Brahmanpara stretches back several decades. According to the tradition associated with the committee, the installation and worship of Maa Kali under the banner of the Maa Kali Utsav Samiti began in 1984. Before that, the locality hosted Jasgeet competitions.
With the support of late Pawan Tiwari, organisers associated with Maharaj and senior residents of the locality, three-day Jasgeet competitions were held. Various Jasgeet groups participated, and outstanding performers were recognised with awards.
These competitions continued for approximately 25 years and played an important role in strengthening the local tradition of devotional folk singing. The format was subsequently discontinued, and the installation of the Maa Kali idol became the central feature of the annual celebration.
Over time, the festival has developed into an occasion that brings together religious devotion, cultural heritage and community participation.
Ten Days of Jasgeet Keep the Festival Grounds Devotional
One of the main features of the celebration is the ten-day programme of Jasgeet performances. Jasgeet groups from neighbouring localities and surrounding areas present devotional songs, creating a spiritually charged atmosphere throughout the festival.
Devotees gather in particular during the aarti and Jasgeet sessions, while local residents enthusiastically attend the performances and encourage the participating artists.
The committee also follows a tradition of honouring members of the community’s senior generation during Navratri. Each day, Jasgeet groups are felicitated by senior citizens and elderly residents of the locality. The honours include a shawl, a coconut and a cash award of ₹1,100.
The initiative recognises the contribution of devotional artists while promoting respect for elders and social harmony.
Jasgeet Singer Santosh Yadav and His Group Felicitated
Continuing this tradition during Navratri, renowned Jasgeet singer Santosh Yadav, son of late Bahur Yadav, and his musical group were felicitated by the committee.
The ceremony was held in a devotional and cultural atmosphere, with the artists receiving recognition for their contribution to the Jasgeet tradition.
ALSO READ-
- Rajnandgaon Collector Reviews Development Works, Directs Faster Digital Crop Survey and Solar Scheme Approvals
- Dispute Over Attempt to Remove Brass Kalash from Shiva Temple; Preventive Action Taken Against One Person in Chhuria
- BJP Mahila Morcha Burns Effigy Outside Congress Bhawan in Rajnandgaon Over Alleged Sexual Exploitation Case
- Learn from Every Defeat and Keep Fighting for Success: Shreyanshprabh Sagar Ji
- Maa Kali Festival in Rajnandgaon’s Brahmanpara Celebrates Tradition; Jasgeet Singer Santosh Yadav Honoured
Sharad Tiwari, patron of the Maa Kali Utsav Samiti and president of the district unit of the Saryupari Brahmin Samaj, presented the honour to Santosh Yadav and his group.
Senior journalist Purushottam Tiwari, Pukhraj Soni of Sadar Bazaar, committee members and senior residents of the locality were also present. The gathering appreciated the efforts of artists who continue to preserve and promote the tradition of devotional folk music.
Brahmanpara Preserves Faith and Folk Culture
Rajnandgaon observes Durga Puja, Saraswati Puja and Kali Puja with devotion and enthusiasm. Along with Brahmanpara, the Gol Bazaar area is also known for its Maa Kali idol installations.
However, the celebration organised by the Maa Kali Utsav Samiti at Gandhi Chowk in Brahmanpara has developed a distinct identity through its Jasgeet performances, traditional community participation and the practice of honouring senior citizens and folk artists.
Here, Navratri extends beyond worship and rituals. Through devotional folk music, recognition of performers and the involvement of residents, the festival provides an opportunity to sustain local cultural traditions.
The grand idol of Maa Kali, the continuous melodies of Jasgeet and the traditions maintained over the decades make the Brahmanpara celebration a distinctive attraction for devotees during Navratri.
