All set for Marbat festival in Nagpur

Nagpur is preparing to host its historic Marbat festival on September 11, continuing a century-old tradition during Tanha Pola that fuses faith, history, and public expression. Centred around two major effigies—Kali Marbat and Pili Marbat—the event originally evolved from an agrarian ritual designed to ward off evil into a platform for community gathering under colonial rule.

The festival's roots trace back to local history and folklore. The Kali Marbat tradition began in 1881 as a protest against Bakabai, the sister of the Bhosale king, who had allied with the British. Her effigy was paraded and burned to mark public resistance. Meanwhile, the Pili Marbat, established in 1885, served as a clever strategy to bypass British bans on public assemblies during the freedom movement.

Mythologically, the effigies are tied to the legend of Putana, whom Lord Krishna defeated. Today, the festival honours Putana as a maternal figure and goddess, while maintaining its legacy as a symbolic voice against injustice and a vehicle for social awareness. Large crowds are expected for this year's festivities. (PTI)