Centuries-old Ker Puja in Tripura - A throwback to royal ritual

AGARTALA:

In a throwback to Tripura’s royal past, the centuries-old Ker puja is being observed in the state with full devotion two weeks after Kharchi Puja in the Royal Palace at Agartala with financial support from the state government.

Ker means ‘boundary’ or ‘specified area’ in ‘Kokborok’ spoken by the tribals here is considered the guardian deity of Vaastu Devata of Tripura since the Manikya dynasty started ruling the state. Ker is worshiped to protect the state from the evil spirit and black magic.

The ‘chantais’ or head priest is regarded as a king during this celebration. A large piece of bamboo is bent to replicate the image of Ker.

It is generally believed that the former rulers used to perform this Puja for the general welfare of the people of the state. Strict rituals have to be followed in the celebration.

As per the ritual no one can go outside the boundary specified by the organisers of Ker during the two and half days of celebrations.

 


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