Raipur CM residence smells of Chhattisgarhi cuisine
The Chief Minister’s residence is filled with the fragrance of Chhattisgarhi cuisine during Hareli festival. Dishes like Thethri, Khurmi, Pidia, Gulgula Bhajiya, Cheela are being specially prepared to welcome the visitors during the festival. Hareli Tihar begins on the new moon day of the month of Sawan. This festival marks the arrival of the monsoon season, which is considered to be the most favorable time for farming. Hareli festival is related to agriculture. On this day, after the sowing is complete in the fields, agricultural equipment is worshipped in the hope of a good harvest. Cleanliness is also important in Hareli festival. Special cleaning and decoration is done in the villages. Alpana is made from neem leaves, mango leaves and cow dung in the courtyards of houses and fields, which is a symbol of auspiciousness and prosperity. Hareli festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Chhattisgarh.
Children in the village enjoy the festival by riding on Gidi. From children to old people, everyone participates in the Gidi race. On this day, animals that help in farming, especially cows and bulls, are also worshipped. Chhattisgarhi dishes are made in homes on this day.