Traditional Rituals and Dance to Mark Karma Puja in East Singhbhum District
Key Points:
– Karma Puja Mahotsav to be celebrated with grandeur across Jharkhand
– Celebrations include traditional rituals, dances, and processions in various areas
– The festival will conclude with the immersion of the Karma Raja on September 15
JAMSHEDPUR – The Karma Puja Mahotsav, celebrated on Bhadra Ekadashi, will be observed with great enthusiasm across Jharkhand, particularly in the East Singhbhum district.
Preparations are complete for the festivities in areas like Purana Sitaramdera, Birsanagar, Ulidih, Shankosai, Bagbera, Jadugora, and Nutandih, where the local Oraon community will celebrate the festival with traditional fervor.
On the evening of September 13, unmarried girls will participate in the "Java Jagran" at various Karma Akhadas, marking the beginning of the celebrations.
The following day, September 14, at 3 PM, young men from the community will perform traditional rituals to invite the Karma Raja.
The festivities will include the ceremonial carrying of the Karma branch, accompanied by Mandar and other traditional drums, through the community, with unmarried girls leading the way.
After the branch is ritually accepted and carried around the locality, it will be installed at the Akhada by the Pahan (tribal priest).
The night will be filled with the telling of the Karma Raja’s story at 8 PM, followed by rituals, after which the devotees will break their fasts.
The celebrations will continue with traditional dancing and music throughout the night.
On September 15, the festival will conclude with a grand procession starting at 3 PM, where the Karma Raja will be immersed in the Subarnarekha River.
In the evening, community members will visit each other’s homes to share a festive meal, known as "Parna Mandi," and exchange greetings.
