Chhattisgarhi Festivals : The famous goncha festival of Bastar

Goncha Festival is rath yatra (Chariot) festival of lord Jagannath, similar to puri rath yatra (Chariot). This is the second largest rath yatra after Puri. The word ghoncha is derived from word gundicha jatra in puri. This annual festival is celebrated on Ashad Shukla Dwitiya (second day in bright fortnight of Ashad (Jun-July) month) in Bastar.

Three different Chariots are made for Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Subhadra. These chariots are second largest chariots of lord Jagannath in the world after puri. Chariots are made by a different tribal community.

It also showcases the inimitable tribal culture of Bastar. The vigorous and enthusiastic enjoyment that marks the Goncha Festival is remarkable. The zest and hearty spirit of the tribals from different parts of Bastar who participate in this festival is incredible.

People play with tupki (small pistol) in honor of lord Jagannath. This pistol made of bamboo and fruit of pengu, is used as a bullet. A bamboo stick is cut in the shape of a pistol and a fruit to strike each . The intention is not to hurt each but to just be a part of a mock encounter. Bastar tribal people danced in front of the rath.

As part of Ratha yatra, the deities of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Subhadra are taken out in a procession to Gundicha Temple (sirhasar) and remain there for nine days. Then the deities or Ratha yatra return to Jagannath temple. The return journey is known as Bahuda Goncha. The fervor and gusto of the people of Bastar at the time of celebrating this festival is admirable. If you visit Jagdalpur at the time of the Goncha Festival, you can be a part of the festivities.