Keonjhar: Depleting forest cover is virtually posing a threat to an age-old tradition and tribal `link’ with the Rath Yatra of Sri Sri Baldevjew in Keonjhar.
As the `siadi’ creeper becomes scarce with other flora in the shrinking forests, ropes made from these by tribals for the chariots are also getting more difficult to come by.
It is believed that Bhuyan tribals had initiated a royal regime in the district by bringing a king from Mayurbhanj. They had a strong connection with kings, festivals, traditions, worship systems and customs in the district.
Bhuyans have been residing in remote and hilly pockets. Traditionally, on invitation from the king, Bhuyan tribals used to come down from their elevated hilly porches to take part in Rath Yatra.
They used to make special ropes of ‘siadi’ creepers which are used for pulling the chariots. This age-old tradition is still alive here. Along with ropes of coir, ropes of siadi are also tied to chariots. Well ahead of Rath Yatra, tribals used to move in forests whole day long and collect siadi creepers.
Particularly, tribals living at Danla village near Suakati under Bansapal block prepare siadi ropes. The endowment department usually bears some nominal expenses.They say, preparation of siadi ropes is a little cumbersome.
“Over the years, forest cover has vanished; siadi creepers are not available in plenty. As they have become scarce, it takes much time for us to search for the creepers in forests to meet all the requirement of ropes,” one of them said.
Earlier, the tribals used to make seven ropes of siadi, but now they are able to prepare only three ropes, that too with much difficulty. To meet the rope requirement, the administration has been using plastic and coir ropes.
“Bhuyans have links with royal families here. Some traditions have been kept alive. On Rath Yatra, Bhuyan tribals meet the royals and get gifts,” said Ramkrushna Mohapatra, a litterateur.
PNN