R Krishna Das
Raipur, November 15
Call it myth or believe, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel bears the pain of Koda(rope) with which he is being beaten up to uphold a tradition going on in the state for years.
Under the tradition commonly known as “Santa” in Chhattisgarh dialect, a person is beaten up with rope with full force on his hands. The event occurs on Govardhan Puja celebrated during the festival of Diwali.
It is believed that the practice benefits the people of the state. People deem that by following this tradition, any disaster on the state is averted. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel has been following the tradition in village Janjagiri, Kumhari of Durg district for years; even before becoming head of the state.
Earlier, village elderly Bharosa Thakur used to conduct the Santa tradition. He died recently and now his son Birendra Thakur carried on the legacy. A large number of people thronged the village to witness the process.
“I am deeply saddened that Thakur is not among us this time in worship, but is happy that his son Birendra and his family are carrying on this tradition,” Baghel said after performing the rituals. He also thanked the people of Janjagiri.
The Chief Minister said that the tradition was conducted for everyone’s wishes. “This beautiful tradition is celebrated for the well-being of all,” he said, adding that he came here every year for Govardhan Puja and performed the tradition.
During this, the Chief Minister prayed to Gaura-Gauri at Kumhari and wished for happiness and prosperity for the people of the state.
