Explore India TV

Another popular & revered folk tales among the tribal communities of  Chhattisgarh, are the series of short stories on Lorik & Chanda -  this one about the romance, devotion & undying love between Lorik  & Chanda where they are willing to take on the world for the sake of  their love. The stories of Lorik & Chanda or Laur Chanda, still  inspire a lot of people in the tribal regions of Chhattisgarh, Odisha,  Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh & Maharashtra.

Chaye Pe Charcha | चाय पे चर्चा 6 - In this very interesting episode, Astha rediscovers the folk singers in & around Balrampur in north Chhattisgarh. These are tribal youths who are devoted to the ethnic cultures of the community and making a desperate attempt to sustain folk songs from the region. 

Chaye Pe Charcha | चाय पे चर्चा 5 - This episode takes a mild turn towards like, its experiences, love & romance. The complexities of our daily life influences people around us and affects love, romance & relationships. Beautifully anchored by Astha as she draws inspiration from literature & our poets to walk the difficult path of love, romance & relationships.

In this fascinating folklore, Astha traces back the history and the tribal folk tales associated with the origin of the river in Chhattisgarh.

In this episode of Chaye Pe Charcha, Dr Astha interviews with radio jockey Ankita & discusses in details about her anthropological work with tribal communities of Chhattisgarh. Dr Astha walks through her challenges, the issues that researchers face and the general plight of the diverse ethnic population of the region.

Chaye Pe Charcha | चाय पे चर्चा 3 - this is a fascinating story of a repatriate Jay when he meets his Guru & had to go through the discipline of relinquishing his identity and learn the art of living on alms. A reminder to all of us that this life is short and must be valued for a higher goal in life than materialistic pleasures.

The fascinating love story & historical folklore of the Jogi Mara  Caves of Sarguja in Chhattisgarh. Ramgarh is known for Sita Bengra and  Jogimara caves. It is believed that Lord Ram spent a few days of his  exile along with his wife Seeta and brother Lakshman in these caves. The locals recount many stories about the caves passed down to them  through generations. 

One of the more popular love stories is that of  Satunaka a devdasi (hand maid) & Rupadaksha. Jogimara caves contain one of the most ancient proclamations of love. In  ancient times, this region was known as Dakshina Kosala. This area also  finds mention in Ramayana and Mahabharata.   The many ancient caves of Ramgarh is believed to be the most ancient  theater in the world. With an exceptionally compelling theory that lord  Rama has lived here during his exile, it is the center of Sodha due to  Lord Rama and Mahakavi Kalidas.

चाय पे चर्चा or Discussion over a cup of Tea! This episode shares thoughts & relevance of romance & love, from a historic perspective to it being influenced by Indian literature, films and where it stands today. 

The introductory episode of चाय पे चर्चा series, loosely translated as Discussion over Tea! 

How to find inspiration in your work in spite of all challenges, roadblocks and difficult times. I share my experience working with the numerous indigenous communities in tribal regions of India and facing the challenges of acceptances, conflicts and authenticity.

Part of a series of romantic folk tales from the tribal communities of Eastern India, the story of love between Lorik & Chanda take an unusual turn in time. Circumstance challenges their love and threatens their romantic and devotional relationship.

Some of the most popular Indian folklores, popular in Eastern Indian states of Chhattisgarh, are the romantic stories of Lorik & Chanda. Lovers, partners, friends and lending a shoulder to lean on, Lorik & Chanda stories are still relevant in today's society in many ways!

Another tribal folklore from the heart of Chhattisgarh, the story of Jhitku & Mitki.

A popular & revered folk tale among the tribal communities of Bastar in Chattisgarh, is the eternal love of a mother for her children, this time in the form of birds - a Koel & a Pargi (both are song birds found in India) as well as the importance of being kind & humble.  

The story of Koel & the Pargi still inspire a lot of people in the tribal regions of Chattisgarh, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh & Maharashtra. Beautifully narrated by Astha in Hindi, this is part of a series of hidden gems of Eastern Indian Cultural & Literary heritage brought by Explore India TV team.