Agni Pariksha: A Sacred Journey of Devotion in Ranchi

 

Agni Pariksha: A Sacred Journey of Devotion in Ranchi

While Baisakhi, celebrated across Northern India on April 13 or 14, marks the joyous arrival of spring and the harvest season—particularly in Punjab—other regions bring their own rich traditions to this auspicious time. In Assam, it's Rongali or Bohag Bihu in April, and Kongali Bihu in October. But in Ranchi, Jharkhand, this day transforms into something unique and spiritually intense—a celebration known as Agni Pariksha, observed with unwavering devotion by the Baraik community and tribal groups.

A Ritual of Fire, Faith, and Community

The day begins at dawn, as devotees gather at the Subarnarekha River. One of the key rituals involves breaking a clay lid placed on a sand-made Shivlinga with bare hands. Success symbolizes the fulfillment of one’s penance; failure means a symbolic penalty imposed by the priest. This is just the beginning of a day-long spiritual journey.

As evening descends, the Phoolkhundi ritual begins. Devotees collect firewood from across the Chutia area and bring it near the local Shiva temple. This is followed by Lotan Seva, a symbolic act of unity where each participant embraces others 21 times to express brotherhood.

The intensity of devotion rises with the Lapra Bhanjne (Dhuwansi) ritual, where devotees hang upside down on a pole over sacred flames—a literal test of faith. Another sacred act, Nisha Pani, sees a chosen devotee, known as the Pat Bhakta, walk barefoot to fetch water from Hatiya Pond without looking back. Upon returning, the temple rituals continue with a goat sacrifice, symbolizing deep reverence to Lord Shiva.

All through the celebrations, barefooted men, women, and even children walk across smoldering embers—some carrying their young on their backs—cheered on by the community. It is a powerful testament to their faith and a heartfelt prayer for rainfall and a bountiful harvest.

A Weeklong Spiritual Fest

Known as Manda Puja, this weeklong festival in Jharkhand draws thousands of devotees to the streets. In Chutia, Ranchi, the Manda Puja Samiti leads the celebrations near the Shiva temple. The highlight is the participation of the Bhoktas—spiritual devotees who undergo a rigorous weeklong fast and carry out the most intense rituals. Bhoktas are revered figures, seen as intermediaries between the divine and the community.

One of the most symbolic moments is when Bhoktas shower flower petals from a height of 25 feet onto the gathered crowd, a blessing from above—both literally and spiritually.

Following Chutia, this festival is celebrated in over 500 locations across Jharkhand including Rajalatu, Sindroll, Tetri, and Hundru Basti.

Rituals in Motion: The Procession

This year's festival opened with a vibrant procession from the historic Shri Ram Temple to the Mahadev Manda. A sacred structure called the Radha Chakra, shaped like a bullock cart, was carried through the streets with a devotee lying bare-bodied between iron spikes—a symbolic act of surrender and trust in divine protection.

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📸 In Pictures:

1.     A devotee runs across fire embers in Chutia, Ranchi.

2.     Devotees rejoice under a shower of sacred flower petals.

3.     Women lead a vibrant, colorful procession through Chutia.

✍️ Text by: Ashok Karan
📷 Photos by: Sanjay Suman, Photojournalist
📝 ashokkaran.blogspot.com

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