Nagpur, Sept. 11 -- Nagpur witnessed the centuries-old Marbat festival, a unique cultural tradition celebrated annually during the month of Bhadrapada, drawing thousands of citizens to the streets for vibrant processions carrying giant effigies representing evil forces, social evils and issues troubling society.

The festival is known for its distinctive combination of cultural tradition, public participation and sharp social messaging. The celebrations feature processions of giant effigies known as Marbats, which are crafted using bamboo, paper and cloth.

The Marbats symbolise various forms of evil and negative influences affecting society. Through the effigies, the festival provides a traditional platform to highlight social evils and ...