Baloda Bazar, Chhattisgarh: The 80th grand convention of the Manwa Kurmi Kshatriya Community commenced on Saturday at the Sonchand Verma Memorial Foundation site in Champa village, Baloda Bazar district. The two-day event opened with a massive Kalash Yatra (ceremonial procession), sending a strong message of social harmony and unity.
Thousands of women participated in the three-kilometer-long procession, carrying traditional pots and symbolizing cultural pride and collective strength. After completing the journey, the procession reached the memorial venue, where participants were warmly welcomed. The first day of the convention also featured colorful cultural programs showcasing the community’s traditions.
Former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel attended the event as a special guest and addressed the gathering. Emphasizing the need for adaptability, Baghel said that any society can sustain itself only by evolving with changing times. He described education as the community’s greatest strength and acknowledged the Manwa Kurmi community’s progress in this area.
Baghel also spoke about emerging social challenges, particularly in the context of marriage. He noted that many educated and working women face difficulties finding suitable matches within the community. Stressing the need for progressive thinking, he suggested that families should be open to redefining traditional roles to maintain balance and harmony. Recalling the slogan of the elders—“Break barriers, unite society”—he urged members to focus on unity and dialogue.
Key social issues were also discussed by Central President Khodsa Ram Kashyap, who expressed concern over increasing inter-caste marriages and the growing number of unmarried youths within the community. He described these trends as challenges of the present time and called for open discussions with the younger generation to guide them constructively.
State Revenue Minister Tank Ram Verma, while addressing the convention, said that whatever he has achieved in life is due to the support of his community. He informed the gathering that nearly ₹3 crore has been approved for the construction of community buildings for the Kurmi society across various states, with several projects already underway. He appealed for responsible and respectful dialogue on social platforms to ensure unity and mutual respect.
One of the major highlights of the event was a mass marriage ceremony involving nine couples. The weddings were solemnized with Vedic chants and traditional rituals, and the newlyweds received blessings and gifts from the dignitaries. Community members praised the initiative as a meaningful step toward promoting social cooperation and equality.
Speaking on a personal note, Baghel said that he himself belongs to the Kurmi community, making his participation more than a formal engagement—it felt like being among family. He reiterated that preserving traditions while embracing a modern outlook is essential for the community’s future.
The convention will conclude on Sunday, with Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai expected to attend as the chief guest. Organizers said the second day will focus on passing social resolutions, organizational decisions, and outlining a future roadmap for the community.