Inside Bastar’s 75-Day Dussehra: The Enduring 600-Year ‘Jogi Bithai’

During Bastar’s 75-day Dussehra, the 600-year-old ‘Jogi Bithai’ ritual sees a Halba tribal youth sit in a 4-foot pit for nine days, fasting without water. Performed at Danteshwari Temple, it ensures peace during festivities. Italian filmmakers are documenting it, highlighting the tradition’s deep spiritual significance.