10 Facts About Chhattisgarh

Chhattisgarh, one of India’s newest states, is often described as the country’s best-kept secret. Rich in tribal culture, dense forests, waterfalls, temples, and natural resources, this landlocked state in central India is a blend of ancient traditions and modern progress. Created in the year 2000, Chhattisgarh has quickly risen in importance for its minerals, tourism potential, and cultural significance.

Here are 10 fascinating facts about Chhattisgarh that reveal its unique history, diversity, and contributions to India.

1. Chhattisgarh Was Carved Out of Madhya Pradesh in 2000

Chhattisgarh became India’s 26th state on November 1, 2000, when it was separated from Madhya Pradesh. The demand for statehood was driven by the region’s distinct cultural and linguistic identity. With Raipur as its capital, Chhattisgarh has since carved a niche in both industrial and tourism sectors.

2. A Major Hub of Tribal Culture

Chhattisgarh is one of the most tribal-dominated states in India, with over 30% of its population belonging to tribal communities. Prominent tribes include Gonds, Baigas, Halbas, Oraons, and Murias. These communities preserve their ancient traditions, art forms, music, dance, festivals, and unique lifestyles, offering a rare insight into India’s indigenous cultures. The vibrant Bastar Dussehra, celebrated by the tribal people of Bastar, lasts for 75 days, making it one of the longest festivals in the world.

3. Rich in Minerals and Industrial Growth

Chhattisgarh is known as the “Mineral Bowl of India” due to its vast reserves of coal, iron ore, bauxite, limestone, and dolomite. The state contributes significantly to India’s steel and power production, with major industries located in Bhilai, Korba, and Raigarh. The Bhilai Steel Plant, one of the largest in India, is a public-sector giant under SAIL and a symbol of India’s industrial prowess.

4. Home to India’s Most Beautiful Waterfalls

Chhattisgarh is blessed with stunning natural beauty, especially its waterfalls, many of which are still relatively unexplored. The most famous ones include:

• Chitrakote Waterfall (known as the Niagara of India),
• Tirathgarh Waterfall in Bastar,
• Amrit Dhara, Kailash Kund, and Mandawa falls.
  These waterfalls, surrounded by forests and tribal villages, are slowly becoming eco-tourism hotspots.

5. The Land of Ancient Temples and Mythological Legends

Chhattisgarh has deep roots in Hindu mythology and temple architecture. The state features ancient and medieval temples such as:

• Bhoramdeo Temple (called the Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh),
• Rajim Group of Temples (also known as the Prayag of Chhattisgarh),
• Mahadev Temple in Sirpur – a historic site that dates back to the 7th century.
  Sirpur was once a flourishing Buddhist center visited by Chinese traveler Xuanzang (Hiuen Tsang) in the 7th century.

6. A Unique Local Language and Cultural Identity

Chhattisgarh has its own language, Chhattisgarhi, which is widely spoken across the state and recognized under the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. The culture is rooted in folk traditions, with famous dances like Panthi, Raut Nacha, Saila, and Suar Mar. Local crafts such as bell metal (Dhokra) art, terracotta, and tribal jewelry are gaining national and international appreciation.

7. Bastar – A Land of Art, Rituals, and Tribal Heritage

The Bastar region is the cultural heart of Chhattisgarh and a major tourist attraction. It is known for:

• Terracotta and Dhokra crafts
• Bastar Dussehra, where deities from local villages are brought to Jagdalpur
• Unique customs like jatra (ritual processions) and tribal oracle worship
  This region exemplifies how indigenous traditions and rituals thrive in harmony with nature.

8. Dense Forests and Biodiversity

Over 44% of Chhattisgarh’s land area is covered in forests, making it one of the greenest states in India. It houses diverse flora and fauna, with national parks and wildlife sanctuaries such as:

• Indravati National Park – home to tigers, leopards, and wild buffaloes.
• Kanger Valley National Park – known for limestone caves like Kutumsar and Dandak, as well as rare species like the Bastar Hill Myna.
  These regions are vital for eco-tourism and conservation.

9. A Strong Agricultural Economy with Local Crops

Agriculture is the primary livelihood for more than 70% of Chhattisgarh’s population. Known as the “Rice Bowl of Central India,” it cultivates over 20,000 varieties of paddy. Other major crops include maize, pulses, oilseeds, and minor forest produce like tendu leaves, mahua flowers, and lac, which are crucial for tribal economies.

10. Emerging as a Tourism and Wellness Destination

Chhattisgarh is now promoting eco-tourism, cultural tourism, and wellness retreats. With initiatives like Tribal Tourism Circuits, Jungle Safari in Naya Raipur, Sirpur Buddhist Circuit, and development of Ram Van Gaman Path (the route believed to be taken by Lord Rama during his exile), the state is putting itself on the national and global tourism map. The clean and well-planned Atal Nagar (Naya Raipur) is emerging as a model smart city of India.

Conclusion

Chhattisgarh, though relatively new as a state, has a rich past and a promising future. Its tribal traditions, ancient temples, natural beauty, and industrial progress make it one of India’s most unique and diverse regions. As more travelers and explorers discover its untapped potential, Chhattisgarh is slowly transforming from a hidden gem into a proud representation of India’s cultural depth and ecological wealth.