Welcome To Ramaram Mela In Sukma

by Samim Gayen | Feb 21, 2025

Ramaram is a small village in Sukma, Bastar. It has a deep spiritual significance for the tribal communities of this region. It is believed that during their exile in Dandakarnya (now the Bastar region), Lord Ram, Mata Sita, and Laxman traveled to Ramaram from Kutumsar using the river route. At this sacred place, Lord Ram is said to have prayed to Bhoodevi on a hillock, making Ramaram an important pilgrimage site.

The village is home to the famous Chitmittin Mata Temple, where the grand Ramaram Mela takes place every year. Chitmittin Mata is a local devi of this region. The Ramaram Mela transforms this quiet spiritual site into a vibrant hub of devotion and cultural celebration. Thousands of tribals from across Sukma, Dantewada, and other regions of Bastar gather here to participate in the grand fair. The mela is not just a religious festival but also a reflection of tribal identity, music, dance, and traditional practices.

Entrance

***The main gate to enter Ramaram Temple as well as Ramaram Mela ground***.

***After entering through the main gate, you have to walk a bit further to reach the temple***.

***A bike and cycle parking area. Most people come to the mela by two-wheelers, as there is very little public transport available***.

The Mela Ground

As you progress along the path, the fair’s vibrancy will gradually increase. You will see shops lined up beside the path. From clothes, garments, and fast food to toys and balloons, you will find everything here. You can feel the vibe of the mela from these images.

***While approaching the temple, I saw a crowd gathered beside the path, watching a traditional song and dance performance.***

This is a local music band. They perform at parties, celebrations, marriages, and other events. The king of this region hires them to perform when the king and queen attend the mela.

A Traditional Dance Performance

Devotees are ready to perform prayers in the traditional way in front of Chitmittin Mata Temple. The sticks they are holding are called ‘Dali.’ Each village sends a Dali, representing the village’s Devi. If a village has multiple Devis, more than one Dali can be brought.

The traditional dance was performed during the mela, surrounding the temple.

At The Temple Doorstep

Devotees bring goats for sacrifice as a fulfilment of their ‘mannat‘ (a sacred vow) made to the deity. People of this region often pledge offerings in exchange for blessings such as having children, family peace, prosperity, or recovery from illness. When their wishes are granted, they come to the mela with a goat to complete their vow through sacrifice.