Malkangiri: In a unique show that left the audience spellbound, Chhattisgarh Excise Minister Kawasi Lakhma performed traditional kalasi dance to appease the goddess at a shrine in a village near Odisha border.
The Minister not only performed the dance in bare body in the presence of thousands of devotees but also whipped himself on the back as per tribal traditions at a village in Sukma district, close to Malkangiri in Odisha.
According to the information, Rajmandei Yatra is held once in every 12 years in Sukma district. Goddess Chinti Pintin of Rama Ramin and deities from neighboring Andhra Pradesh and Odisha are worshiped during this festival.
As per tribal traditions, thousands of devotees participate in kalasi dance during the festival for fulfillment of their wishes. Joining the other devotees, Chhattisgarh Minister Kawasi Lakhma also performed kalasi dance and whipped his bare body.
The Minister’s fascinating performance cast a magical spell on all those present. The devotees were left taut as Lakhma danced in strict adherence to tribal style during the festival