President Smt. Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the Surguja Block at Purkhouti Muktangan in Nava Raipur on October 25.
Built at a cost of approximately Rs. 5 crore, this newly opened section highlights the lifestyle, cultural heritage, and archaeological treasures of Chhattisgarh’s tribal communities, with a special focus on the Surguja region.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao, Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development Tokhan Sahu, Agriculture Minister Ram Vichar Netam, Food Minister Dayal Das Baghel, Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, Women and Child Development Minister Smt. Laxmi Rajwade, Revenue Minister Tank Ram Verma, Raipur Lok Sabha MP Brijmohan Agrawal, and MLAs Khushwant Saheb and Rohit Sahu.
The Surguja Block presents the unique traditions and ancient heritage of Surguja’s tribal communities. Visitors can experience the architecture and lifestyles of various tribes from the region, gaining insights into their living conditions and cultural practices within a single, immersive location.
A traditional bamboo and chhind leaf house illustrates the daily life of the Pando tribe, featuring a sacred space for deity worship.
The wooden structure of the Pahari Korwa tribe’s home displays intricate deity carvings, reflecting their religious devotion.
Additionally, the Samat Sarna Shiv Temple, reconstructed in the block, replicates Dipadih’s ancient temple ruins, dating from the 7th to the 13th century, offering a glimpse into the region’s archaeological and religious significance.
A replica of Baikunthpur Palace from Koriya district, built in 1946 and a fine example of Indian architecture, also adds to the historical richness of the block.
The block further features the Madia Khamba, a symbolic pillar central to tribal ceremonies and worship for the Madia tribe.
Also on display are the remnants of an ancient theatre from Sitabengra Cave on Ramgarh Hill, believed to be Bharat Muni’s theatre and known as the place where the poet Kalidas composed his masterpiece, Meghadutam.
Chief Secretary Amitabh Jain, DGP Ashok Juneja, Principal Secretary of Tribal Welfare Department Sonamni Bora, Principal Secretary of Culture Department Anbalgan P., Secretary to Chief Minister P. Dayanand, Commissioner Tribal Development Narendra Dugga, and Director Archaeology and Culture Vivek Acharya were also present in the program.