For generations, Nagpur’s world famous Marbat tradition has been defined by two iconic coloured effigies - Kali and Peeli. This year, a new colour is set to join the city’s historic tradition. Around 13-foot tall Silver Marbat is being prepared in Imambada for the first time in the history of this tradition. Prepared by Imambada Chandi Marbat Utsav Mandal, the Silver Marbat is not intended to replace the traditional Kali and Peeli Marbats, which remain at the heart of the city’s Marbat culture. Instead, it is being introduced as a new addition to the long-standing tradition. The idea emerged from a desire to introduce something unique while continuing to respect the traditional identity of the Marbat festival. Vansh Mahato, Vice-President, The Imambada Chandi Marbat Utsav Mandal, told ‘The Hitavada’ that they chose silver while keeping the significance of white in mind.

 

“Since white symbolises peace, the Silver Marbat has been conceived as a message of peace, unity and harmony in society,” Mahato said. Nagpur’s Marbat tradition of around 150 years has been carried forward through generations and has become an important part of the city’s cultural identity. The Kali Marbat depicts deep-rooted social evils and historically symbolises the Bhonsla queen, Maharani Bankabai, reflecting public anger over her surrender and collaboration with British colonial power. The Peeli Marabat depicts the oppressive British colonial rule and the pale skin of foreigners, serving historically as a symbol of protest against British tyranny.

 

The Silver Marbat now seeks to become another part of this evolving cultural story. The structure is being made using bamboo, paper, fevicol and silver-coloured paint. Around six to seven people have been directly involved in its preparation, with additional assistance from others. It has taken almost a month to complete with a silver finish has been given to the structure. For the artists in Imambada, the experiment is about more than creating a different-looking Marbat. It is an effort to add a new colour and a new message to Nagpur’s cultural heritage. They plan to continue the Silver Marbat in the coming years and use it to convey different social messages, beginning this year with the message of peace and unity.