Five-day celebration to feature folk plays, Jasgeet, circus and the thrilling “Well of Death”; tight security arrangements in place
Raigarh: The festive spirit is all set to grip Chaple village in Kharsia tehsil, as preparations for the annual Shri Shri 1008 Mahakali Puja and Grand Fair gather pace. From October 20 to 24, the villages of Robertson, Chaple, and Bade Dumarpali will come alive with devotion, color, and cultural performances.
For locals, the Mahakali Mahotsav is much more than a religious event — it’s a celebration of unity, culture, and community bonding. Every year, people from across the district flock to the fair to take part in rituals, enjoy performances, and soak in the festive mood.
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🔱 Midnight Puja to Mark the Beginning
The festival will begin on October 20 at midnight with a special Mahakali Puja, followed by distribution of prasad among devotees. Over the next four days, the fairground will buzz with activity — folk dramas (natak), Jasgeet performances, dance shows, open-air cinema, circus acts, swings, and the famous “Well of Death” will entertain visitors of all ages.
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🏆 Competitions with Cash Prizes
Adding to the excitement, drama and Jasgeet competitions have been organized with attractive cash rewards:
Drama Competition: 1st – ₹30,001 | 2nd – ₹20,001 | 3rd – ₹11,001
Jasgeet Competition: 1st – ₹11,001 | 2nd – ₹9,001 | 3rd – ₹7,001
Each Jasgeet troupe bringing a decorative tableau (jhanki) will also receive a ₹1,100 incentive.
The organizing committee has arranged free lodging and food (including dry rations) for all participating teams.
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🚨 Security, Cleanliness and Discipline
The fair committee has ensured CCTV surveillance across the premises for visitors’ safety. A strict ban has been imposed on the sale or consumption of alcohol, meat, or eggs within the fair area. Devotees can voluntarily contribute ₹401 toward the Akhanda Jyoti (Eternal Flame) of Goddess Mahakali.
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🪔 Peace Puja and Idol Immersion on Oct 24
The festival will conclude on October 24 with a Shanti Puja (Peace Ritual) and idol immersion ceremony, followed by prasad distribution.
The Mahakali Festival has, over the years, evolved into a symbol of faith, tradition, and rural culture — bringing together people of all ages in an atmosphere of devotion and joy.
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📅 At a Glance: Mahakali Mela, Chaple
Dates: October 20–24, 2025
Location: Chaple village, Kharsia tehsil, Raigarh district
Main Attractions: Folk dramas, Jasgeet, circus, “Well of Death”, swings
Special Event: Midnight Mahakali Puja (Oct 20)
Security: CCTV monitoring, alcohol & non-veg strictly banned
