In a significant move to preserve cultural heritage, the Santal community in Baramsia village, Dumka, has initiated weekly worship rituals at their traditional ‘Manjhi Thaan’ (sacred grove). Spearheaded by social activist Sachidanand Soren and village elders including the Majhi Baba, Naik, Gudait, Jog Manjhi, and Pranik, the community gathered to perform the ‘Bonga Buru’ (worship). Before the ceremony, the sacred site underwent a thorough cleaning. Villagers of all ages, men, women, and children, collectively offered prayers with incense, lamps, and traditional offerings, adhering to age-old customs. This weekly worship will now be a regular feature every Sunday.
Villagers emphasized the critical need for these collective prayers at the Manjhi Thaan to maintain their religious faith and cultural identity in contemporary times. The worship is dedicated to Marang Buru, the supreme deity revered by the Santal people. The core objectives behind this initiative are to foster community unity, achieve spiritual solace, and safeguard their rich cultural legacy for future generations. It’s particularly aimed at connecting the youth and children with their roots, enabling them to understand, respect, and take pride in their traditions, while also guiding them towards positive life choices. The weekly ‘Manjhi Thaan Bonga Buru’ is seen as a vital step towards social harmony, promising increased peace, prosperity, and brotherhood within the village and families. It also plays a crucial role in preserving their religion, culture, and civilization. Special prayers were also offered for the holistic development of children, including abstaining from alcohol, attending school, and serving and respecting elders.