Kherai Puja facts for kids

Kherai Puja is a very important religious festival for the Bodo people who live in Assam, India. It's a special time when they honor their gods and goddesses. People perform this puja, which means a worship ceremony, on different occasions throughout the year. It's a way for them to ask for good health, happiness, and success for their families and communities.

What is Kherai Puja?

Kherai Puja is a traditional festival that shows the deep spiritual beliefs of the Bodo community. During this puja, people offer prayers and perform rituals led by a priest. They believe these ceremonies bring blessings and protect them from bad things. The Kherai Puja is not just one event; it actually has four main types, each with its own special meaning and time of year.

Darshan Kherai: The Puja for Good Fortune

The Darshan Kherai (दोर्सोन खेराइ) is usually celebrated during the first week of the month called 'Kati' or 'Kartik'. This month often falls around October or November. This specific Kherai Puja is dedicated to the goddess of wealth and well-being. Because it focuses on bringing good fortune and prosperity, it is also known as the 'Lwkhi Kherai'. It's a time for families to pray for abundance and happiness.

Umrao Kherai: Protecting the Community and Crops

The Umrao Kherai (उमराव खेराइ) takes place in the month of 'Ashara', which is usually around June or July. This puja is performed after a period that is considered "unclean" in their traditions. The main purpose of the Umrao Kherai is to ensure the health and safety of everyone in the village. It's also a prayer for healthy and successful crops, which are very important for the community's livelihood. This Kherai is sometimes called the 'Ashu Kherai'.

Phalo Kherai: The Full Moon Celebration

The Phalo Kherai (फालो खेराइ) is a special puja that happens during the full moon of a particular month. It's also known by another name, the "Danshrang Kherai." Celebrating during the full moon adds a unique spiritual feeling to this ceremony. It's a time when the Bodo people connect with their traditions under the bright moonlight.

Nowani Kherai: A Family's Personal Puja

The Nowani Kherai (न'नि खेराइ) is different from the others because it's performed by individual families whenever they feel it's necessary. It's not tied to a specific month or community-wide event. If a family faces a challenge or wants to give thanks, they can choose to perform the Nowani Kherai. The Bodo people, who strongly follow their traditional ways, believe that Kherai Puja, along with Garja Puja, helps them stay safe and well at all times.

Images for kids

• Kherai Puja celebrated at Molandubi

  Kherai Puja celebration.

• Bathow Festivals of Assam

  A traditional festival in Assam.

• Bathow Puja in Assam

  People celebrating Bathow Puja.