The Kharchi Puja, a widely recognized festival celebrated in the state of Tripura, has recently been highlighted in news coverage due to its unique significance and rich cultural history. The commencement of the festival this year was on June 26th and is expected to continue until July 2nd.
Understanding the Kharchi Puja
Commonly known as the ‘Festival of 14 Gods,’ the Kharchi Puja carries significant cultural importance for the Tripuri people, who mainly worship Chaturdasa Devata. This deity resides in the age-old Ujjayanta Palace and is seen by many as the ancestral god of the Tripuri people. The festivities include a special homage to the earth along with the worship of their 14 deities. One of the key rituals in this festival is the construction of the Chaturdasha Mandapa. This edifice symbolizes the majestic palace of the ancient Tripuri kings.
The Rituals of the Puja
On the day of the Kharchi Puja, the 14 gods are carried by the royal priests, known as “Chantai,” to the Saidra River. The gods are subsequently bathed in the sacred water of the river before being returned to the temple.
Historical Background and Beliefs
The term ‘Kharchi’ originates from two Tripuri words—‘khar’ or kharta, which signifies sin, and ‘chi’ or si, meaning cleaning. Although the festival has tribal roots, it is celebrated uniformly by both the tribal and non-tribal residents of Tripura. The belief that the Mother Goddess or Tripura Sundari menstruates during the Ambubachi period, typically noticed in June, is widespread among the people of Tripura. During this period, the Earth is thought to become impure. As a result, the Kharchi Puja is observed as a way to ritually cleanse the Earth once the menstruation period of the Goddess ends, and to wash away the sins of the land’s people.
Major Festival in Various States and Union Territories
Several states and Union territories in India also celebrate notable festivals like Makar Sankranti in Andhra Pradesh, Losar in Arunachal Pradesh, Bihu in Assam, Chhath Puja in Bihar, Maghi Purnima and Bastar Dussehra in Chhattisgarh, Shigmo Mel in Goa, Navaratra and Uttarayan in Gujarat, among many others. Tripura state celebrates the Kharchi Puja and Neermahal Festival.
UPSC Civil Services Examination Questions
There have been several instances where the Kharchi Puja and other cultural rituals have been mentioned in the UPSC Civil Services Examination. For example, in 2018 and 2017, questions about traditional festivals and their associated communities were included in the examination. Further back in 2014, a question about an ecologically important campaign or festival recognized by certain tribes and communities was also in the exam.
The Kharchi Puja is more than just a festival; it is a representation of the rich cultural heritage of the Tripuri people. Its observance involves unique rituals, beliefs, and historical significance that make it a vital part of Tripura’s cultural identity.
