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The paddy crop is ripe in the fields. Now the preparations for cutting have started. During this period, tribals follow special traditions. Actually, the branch of a special tree is used to protect the crops on the barn. It is believed that this prevents evil eyes on the crops and poisonous creatures like ghosts, snakes and scorpions also do not come near the barn.
Goddah The paddy harvesting season has fully arrived in the district. In many areas, paddy is ripe and farmers have also stepped up preparations for harvesting. The farmers, who are enthusiastically engaged in the fields, are now also engaged in making Khamhar i.e. barn, a traditional system for keeping the crops safe. Especially in tribal areas, this process is still done according to age-old traditions.
A barn is prepared at a safe and elevated place in the fields, where the harvested paddy is stored so that the crop remains protected from rain, moisture and other natural obstacles. The tribal community follows a special tradition to protect this barn. Here the branch of the Bhelwa tree along with its leaves is buried in a corner of the barn. In Santhali language this tree is called Sisodad and it is found in hilly areas. Villagers pluck it from the forest and one branch of it is sold in the villages for up to Rs 10.
Talking to Local 18, tribal farmer Shyamlal Hansda says that building a barn is not just a way to store crops, but a cultural tradition. Both nature and faith are connected in this process that has been going on since our ancestors. First a suitable place is chosen, then with the help of wood and grass the structure of the barn is erected.
Special importance of Bhelwa branch
There is a belief about planting the branch of Bhelwa that it prevents evil eye on the crop and poisonous creatures like ghosts, snakes and scorpions also do not come near the barn. Farmer Yogendra Mahato says that this is not only a security system, but is also related to the religious beliefs of the tribal society. Bhelwa branch is seen as a divine blessing. It is believed that by planting it, the crop remains safe and nature’s blessings remain on the family.
Traditional festivals are also celebrated in villages after paddy harvesting. Dishes made from new paddy are distributed throughout the village and everyone welcomes the new paddy together. It is not only a part of agriculture, but also a symbol of the cultural identity and collective unity of the tribal society.
