Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav paid homage at the sacred worship site of the Korku/Mavasi community in Pachmarhi on Tuesday, receiving a warm welcome from tribal members who performed the traditional Gatha dance as part of their cultural heritage.
A 26-member troupe captivated the gathering with their vibrant Gatha dance accompanied by musical instruments such as the dholak, timki, and jhanj.
During the event, Dr. Yadav joined in by playing the Jhanjh-Manjira and announced an incentive of Rs 5,000 for each participating artist.
Senior community members shared insights into the spiritual significance and historical background of the sacred site. The Chief Minister also held a cordial interaction with Shri Manish Bhopaji, a descendant of Raja Bhabhut Singh.
Community representatives Smt. Guddi Sheelu and Shri Vijay Sheelu described the stone structure at the Shraddha Sthal as highly sacred to the Korku Mavaasi community. Established by Raja Bhabhut Singh, who is regarded as a symbol of their ancestors, the structure is believed to be made of Sapta Dhatu.
Raja Bhabhut Singh Ji, known for his deep respect for nature, founded the Gatha Sthal in Pachmarhi, which continues to serve as an important center of faith for the Korku Mavasi community.
The site features intricately hand-carved wooden boards displaying symbolic engravings of the sun, moon, images of the deceased riding horses, dates of passing and Gatha ceremonies, along with ancestral figures. The boards also include ancestors from the Kutumb clan whose gatha ceremonies remain to be performed.
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav lauded the community for its steadfast efforts in preserving its cultural heritage and traditions.