In Chhattisgarh, the sacred month of monsoon is much more than just overcast skies and prayers dedicated to Lord Shiva, as it also serves as a vibrant festival of greenery and cultural enthusiasm. Capturing this exact spirit, a large gathering of women recently came together at the Company Garden in Bilaspur to celebrate the Sawan festival in a deeply traditional format.
Throughout the special gathering, participants adorned themselves in vibrant green sarees, matching green bangles, bindis, sindoor, and classic ornaments, reflecting the traditional 16 adornments known as solah shringar. The entire venue radiated shades of green and infectious energy. Groups of friends gathered to enjoy traditional swings hanging from trees, sing folk melodies, and share joyous moments together.
A Blend of Devotion and Celebration
Sharing details about the gathering, Dr. Rumi Dubey explained that the rainy month holds immense significance for women. During this period, special prayers are offered to Lord Shiva, and a dedicated Sundari event is organized where women dress up elaborately and participate collectively to cherish the festive moments.
The Essence of Green in Sawan Sundari
Greenery and the monsoon season share an intrinsic bond, which is why the color green takes center stage at the Sawan Sundari event. Attendees arrived wearing green sarees and bangles, complemented by traditional cosmetics. Many women also adorned their hands with intricate henna designs and wore classic jewelry to elevate their festive look.
Rooted in the Tradition of Goddess Parvati
Elaborating on the cultural background, Asha Kankarwal noted that Sawan is considered a dedicated month for Lord Shiva. According to established customs, women emulate the appearance of Goddess Parvati by adorning themselves amid nature and celebrating with their companions. Similar festivals in Chhattisgarh like Hariyali Teej, Hariyali Amavasya, and Hareli are deeply intertwined with nature and local ecology.
A Gathering of Friends and Companions
Beyond fashion and dress codes, the Sawan Sundari meet served as an ideal opportunity for women to reconnect and spend quality time together. Participants brought their preferred festive garments and accessories, creating an atmosphere filled with collective amusement, cheerful swinging, and lively cultural songs.
Traditional Delicacies Add Flavor
No traditional celebration is complete without authentic local food. Speaking about the menu, Mala Tiwari mentioned that women prepare various homemade dishes according to their preferences and bring them along. Local favorites like bhajiya, aloo bonda, samosa, cheela, and fara formed an integral part of the festive feast.
Showcasing Chhattisgarh Culture at Company Garden
The Sawan Sundari event at the Bilaspur Company Garden offered a stunning display of Chhattisgarh's folk traditions and the collective enthusiasm of women. Surrounded by lush greenery, women dressed in green apparel added a unique charm to the seasonal festivities, reinforcing their connection with nature, tradition, and one another.
