Baha parab

Baha parab or Baa Parab is a festival of Ho, Santhal, Munda and other tribes in India. "Baha" or "Baa" means flower in Mundari, santali and ho language. At Baha parab or Baa parab men, women and children are attired in traditional clothes, and Madal drums are beat. This festival takes place in the spring.[1]

Baha parab dance by women

Ritual

Marking the festival, the naikey or deurey (the priest) performs a ritual. A kula with flowers and leaves of the sal tree is offered to a Jaherthan (the altar) and devotees pray to "Jaher Ara", the god. After performing the rituals, the naikey along with others goes from door to door with the kula to bless everyone. People in the household, in particular young girls or women, offer food to the naikey. The naikey's feet are washed with water as he is welcomed by a family. After performing the rituals, the second part of programme start with dances, songs and archery practice.[2]

References
  1. Folklore, the Pulse of the People: In the Context of Indic Folklore By Mazharul Islam p.212
  2. Bharater adibasi, samaj

Further reading
  • Bodding, P.O. (2001). Traditions and institutions of the Santals. Gyan. ISBN 8121206723. OCLC 728672614.
  • Culshaw, J.W. Tribal heritage : a study of the Santals. ISBN 9788121208574. OCLC 904104068.
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