Baripada: Congregation of thousands of people at Damodar Mela that kicked off in Mayurbhanj district Sunday has raised serious concerns as Covid19 norms went for a toss at the traditional fair.
Damodar Mela, a three-day festival of tribals, particularly Santhals, in Mayurbhanj district began at Sunamuhin also known as Baruni ghat – the confluence of Budhabalanga, Jarali and Sarali rivers- Sunday.
Thousands of tribals from various parts of the district, other districts, neighbpuring states like Jharkhand and West Bengal thronged the holy ghat and immersed the ashes of their deceased family members.
Covid-19 norms were apparently thrown to the winds as thousands of tribals congregated at the ghat on the same day. Thousands of tribals took holy dip at the ghat and offered prayers.
They believe that the souls of their dead kin can only rest in peace after their ashes are immersed in the confluence of the three rivers. This fair and tradition have been in vogue for centuries.
Before offering ‘pinda’ to their forefathers, tribals immerse the ashes. The offerings comprising balls of mud, toothpicks, rice and sweets are put on three Sal leaves.
Singing songs to the tunes of beating of drums in praise of ancestors is an integral part of this fair. After the offerings, the tribals usually get their heads tonsured and take holy dip in the river.
Tribals also offer gifts like umbrellas, slippers, clothes, utensils, boxes and clocks to others. Presenting and receiving gifts are considered hallowed traditions. This mela is part of their annual ritual called ‘Jiling Dahar’.
Tribals chant certain lines to appease their presiding deity. Like the River Ganges, Santhals regard the confluence as ‘Holy Damodar’ and immerse articles belonging to their forefathers, the tradition being followed since time immemorial.
It was said that this river assumed significance during the rule of Pratap Chandra Bhanj Deo, the king of Bhanja dynasty in the erstwhile princely state Mayurbhanj.
Earlier, Santhals used to trek miles all the way to Thakurbadi, a place near Gopiballavpur in West Bengal, to immerse the bones and ashes of their ancestors in Subarnarekha.
The officials of the district administration, police and fire services personnel have made elaborate arrangements for smooth conduct of the three-day fair. Facilities like lighting, watch tower, first aid, rest sheds and drinking water have been put in place.
In view of the third wave of Covid-19 and spiralling Omicron cases, the district administration has imposed restrictions on festivals and gatherings.
Activists of various organisations have been sensitising the tribals about wearing masks, sanitising hands and maintaining social distance as precautionary measures.
PNN