Since 1973, the District Archaeological Association—in collaboration with the District Administration of Surguja—has been organizing the grand Ramgarh Mahotsav annually on the first day of the month of Ashadh at Ramgarh, located within the Udaipur Development Block of Surguja District. Ramgarh is a site of immense significance from the perspectives of tourism, culture, and archaeology. During the Ramgarh Mahotsav, scholars, students, and educators specializing in history, archaeology, and culture—including distinguished experts from across the country—present research papers pertaining to the various historical and cultural landmarks of Ramgarh, such as the ancient theater, Jogimara, Sitabengra, the Ram Janaki Temple, and the very site where the great poet Kalidasa composed his masterpiece, Meghadutam. The primary objectives of the Ramgarh Mahotsav are to ensure the widespread promotion of Ramgarh as a historical site, to foster research, to facilitate the publication of findings in academic journals and periodicals, and—alongside highlighting Ramgarh’s historical significance—to promote local culture through performances of traditional folk dances such as Karma, Suga, and Saila. Uniquely, the Ramgarh Mahotsav—which has garnered global recognition—commences on its inaugural day with a ritualistic worship of the clouds performed by the local inhabitants.
