In the heart of the tribal-dominated region of Dantewada, an ancient town called Barsur hosts a unique tradition practiced by the villagers for many years. The village heads, along with the Baiga, Sirha, and Guniya tribes, organise the marriage of Mahua trees to ensure a good yield of Mahua flowers. This tradition is deeply rooted in the tribal culture, traditions, and rituals of the Bastar region.

The Mahua tree holds a special place in the lives of the tribal communities in Bastar. The tree is considered sacred, and its flowers serve various purposes, from producing alcohol and food to traditional medicines. This marriage ceremony is a way for the villagers to celebrate their connection with nature and express their gratitude for the resources it provides. During the wedding, the branches of Mahua trees are anointed with oil and turmeric, and male villagers dance and sing around the tree, just as in a typical human wedding. Once the wedding rituals are completed, the villagers worship the village deities and pray for a good yield of Mahua flowers.

The Mahua tree provides valuable resources like timber, fuel wood, and fodder. Its medicinal properties are also widely recognised in traditional medicine. The tree’s importance is evident in the way the tribal communities celebrate its existence through the unique wedding ceremony. This tradition is not only a unique cultural practice but also serves as a conservation effort. By organising the marriage of the trees, the villagers ensure that they take care of the trees and promote their growth. This, in turn, leads to a better yield of flowers, which benefits the entire community. The tradition encourages sustainable use of the Mahua tree and its resources. By maintaining a close relationship with the tree and valuing its importance, the villagers ensure that they utilise the tree’s resources responsibly and do not overexploit it.