The Marbat festival, which explores Nagpur's tradition and has carved a unique place in the city's culture, completes 145 years this year. This festival is not only linked to religious rituals but is a beautiful blend of social awareness, faith, and public participation.
Currently, black and yellow Marbat have been placed in the city. Devotees are coming in large numbers from Nagpur and across the state to see them. This has created an atmosphere of excitement throughout the city.
The main purpose of the Marbat festival is to protest against evil tendencies, superstitions, and harmful practices in society. On the day after Bull Pola, various effigies participate in the procession along with the Marbats. Finally, these symbolic idols are burned, and people welcome good thoughts.
The Yellow Marbat is considered a form of the goddess. In 1885, the Teli community brothers started this tradition. Since then, a grand procession of the Yellow Marbat is held every year. The significant participation of women and children is considered a special aspect of this celebration. However, the Black Marbat tells a different story. It began approximately 144 years ago against those who collaborated with the British. She is also recognized as a symbol of Putana Maushi, who came for the killing of Krishna. This tradition is still celebrated with the same faith and enthusiasm in Nagpur today.
In today's times, the Marbat festival is not just a matter of faith but has become an effective medium for social awareness. For the people of Nagpur, it is a source of pride, and the messages derived from this tradition are still considered equally important today. This procession is not only significant from a religious perspective but is also regarded as a symbol of social and cultural unity.