Rare public access to Bailadila mine for Vishwakarma Festival

The annual Vishwakarma Puja offered a rare opportunity for people to enter the Bailadila mining area in Bastar. Usually closed for safety reasons, the mine area became a bustling fairground for a single day. Over 15,000 devotees visited the site, traveling along the steep, winding road that offers spectacular views of the mist-shrouded peaks. Despite the logistical challenges and the massive traffic, the event was a success with security provided by the CISF and state police.