Unusual Traditions in a Chhattisgarh Village: Women Forbidden from Wearing Sindoor

In a remarkable village in Chhattisgarh, women face unique restrictions after marriage, including a ban on wearing sindoor. This article delves into the peculiar customs of Sandbahara village, where superstitions dictate the lives of women, preventing them from engaging in traditional practices. Despite attempts to challenge these norms, the community remains bound by deep-rooted beliefs. Explore the reasons behind these customs and the impact of local traditions on women's lives in this isolated village.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 16, 2026, 20:59 IST

Strange Customs for Married Women

In India, married Hindu women traditionally adorn themselves with decorative items, including a bindi on their forehead and sindoor in their hair parting, symbolizing their marital status. However, in a unique village in Chhattisgarh, women are prohibited from wearing sindoor after marriage. This village has specific customs that restrict women from certain practices, raising eyebrows and curiosity.

The Village of Sandbahara

The village in question is Sandbahara, located in the Dhamtari district of Chhattisgarh. The customs here are so peculiar that they may astonish outsiders. Women in this village must adhere to strict rules, including a ban on wearing sindoor and engaging in beautification rituals. Furthermore, they are not allowed to sit on chairs or sleep on beds, and climbing trees or harvesting rice is also forbidden.

Understanding the Reasons Behind These Customs

You might wonder why such unusual rules exist in this village. The answer lies in deep-rooted superstitions. The villagers believe that failing to follow these customs angers the goddess, bringing misfortune to the community. According to local leaders, these regulations were established after the village chief received a divine message instructing women to abide by these rules, which have persisted ever since.

Attempts to Challenge the Norms

Despite the existence of these customs, there have been attempts to challenge them. A woman named Revati Markam raised her voice against these superstitions, trying to educate the villagers. Unfortunately, her efforts did not yield success. While many women in the village do not agree with these customs, they often feel unable to express their dissent openly. The village's backwardness is compounded by its location in a Naxalite area, which has hindered development and fostered isolation from outsiders.