Karam parab

The Karam festival is primarily celebrated by the tribal communities of Chotanagpur region in India. It is one of the most significant festivals for these communities, especially the Kudmi tribe. Here are some key details about the Karam festival:

◆Duration: The festival lasts for around 15 days and typically falls in the month of Bhadra (August-September) according to Bengali Calender & Karam Maas (Bhadar) according to Kudmali Calender.

◆ Rituals and Celebrations: The festival begins with the planting of the Karam tree, which is a branch or sapling of the sacred Karam tree. The tree is worshipped and songs and dances are performed around it. The Karam tree symbolizes the deity Karam Goshai (God)and is considered the epitome of fertility and prosperity.
The unmarried girls decorate a small basket with germinating seeds it's called Jawa.It is believed that the worship for good germination of the grains would increase the fertility. The girls offer green melons to the Karam deity as a symbol of ‘son’.

◆Dance and Music: Folk dances like Jhumar,Pata Nacch are an integral part of the Karam festival. People dress in traditional attire and perform these dances with enthusiasm. Music is an essential element, and traditional instruments like Dhamsa,Madol and Nagada are used during the festivities.

◆Social Significance: The Karam festival is not just a religious celebration but also an occasion for socializing and rejuvenation. Community members come together to showcase their cultural heritage, exchange gifts, and strengthen social bonds.

◆Harvest Theme: Since the festival coincides with the beginning of the harvest season, it is centered around agricultural activities. The freshly harvested crops are used in preparing special dishes and offerings to the deity.

The Karam festival is a time of joy, thanksgiving, and merriment for the Kudmi community and other tribal groups. It reflects their close connection with nature, their agricultural livelihood, and their rich cultural heritage.

✍️Rajesh Mahato