Dantewada: The Sacred Soul of Bastar



# Dantewada: The Sacred Soul of Bastar


Nestled in the dense forests of southern Chhattisgarh, **Dantewada** is a place where age-old spirituality, tribal culture, and natural splendor meet. Brought away from the mayhem of urban India, the town in the **Bastar district** provides a glimpse into a world where **belief, myth, and forest** live in harmony.


While frequently cited in the news headlines for its political issues, **Dantewada possesses a richer, more profound identity**—one that should be witnessed, experienced, and comprehended.


## A Land Named After a Goddess


The town takes its name from **Goddess Danteshwari**, the patron deity of the area and one of India's 52 Shakti Peethas. Legend has it that a tooth (\"danta\") of **Sati** dropped here, lending the town its name and religious significance. Locals and tribal groups have worshipped **Danteshwari Mata** for centuries, representing protection, power, and purity.


## The Danteshwari Temple: A Spiritual Landmark


Situated where the **Shankini and Dankini rivers** meet, the **Danteshwari Temple** is the religious center of Dantewada. Constructed during the 14th century by the Chalukyas of Bastar, the temple is an excellent specimen of **south Indian temple architecture** with a high shikhara and ornately carved stone façades.


The temple is brought to life on **Bastar Dussehra**, a distinctive 75-day tribal festival (not connected with the Ramayana) where a festive procession of deities caps the festivities, led by Danteshwari Mata. 


## Culture Rooted in Tribal Traditions


Dantewada is part of the **Bastar tribal belt**, home to indigenous communities like the **Gonds**, **Marias**, and **Murias**. Their customs, dances, music, and lifestyle reflect a deep connection to nature and ancestral wisdom. A visit here provides a unique opportunity to witness **India's tribal heritage**—authentic, resilient, and spiritually rich.


You’ll find tribal markets selling **handmade jewelry**, **bamboo crafts**, and **tribal textiles**—perfect souvenirs and a way to support local artisans.


## Natural Beauty and Wilderness


In addition to temples and tribes, Dantewada is also famous for its natural beauty and wilderness. The **forests of Dantewada** are included in the **Dandakaranya region**, mentioned in the Ramayana and famous for its dense foliage, rare plant life, and rich biodiversity.


Other attractions around include:


* **Barsur** – Ancient town also called the "City of Temples and Lakes," former capital of the Nagavanshi dynasty, with more than 100 temple ruins.

* **Phoolpad Waterfall** – Picturesque and off-beat destination perfect for a peaceful retreat into nature.

* **Bailadila Hills** – Although more famous for their iron ore mines, the hills are also religious and provide a bird's eye view.


## Getting There


* **Closest Major City:** Jagdalpur (about 80 km)

* **By Air:** Nearest airport is at Jagdalpur or Raipur (about 400 km)

* **By Rail:** Dantewada has its own railway station, linked through Jagdalpur and Visakhapatnam

* **By Road:** Well connected through state highways


As a precaution against security issues in some areas, it's recommended to remain informed through local officials or travel with a guide when exploring distant areas.


## Best Time to Visit


The best season to visit Dantewada is **October to February**, particularly during events such as **Bastar Dussehra**, where the culture of the region is at its fullest. The monsoon season (June to September) carpets the forests with greenery and revives the rivers but can be challenging for travel.


Dantewada is not a destination—it's a **pilgrimage to the spiritual and cultural origins of India**. With its temples that are sacred, its tribal history that goes deep, and its natural beauty that is untouched, Dantewada contradicts expectations and treats visitors to authenticity and meaning.


At a time when the world moves fast with tourism and Instagram tick-lists, Dantewada is something different—a place that expects you to slow down, listen, and absorb the ancient pulse of the earth.


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