Dharma-puja

Dharma-puja is an annual folk worship ceremony in eastern India, particularly in West Bengal, associated with the folk deity Dharma-Thakur. This worship is linked to sun worship and is considered a form of sympathetic magic intended to invoke monsoon rains. Dharma-Thakur is worshipped in various forms, such as stones or wooden slabs, and is recognized as a fertility god and healer. The legends and exploits of Dharma-Thakur are documented in Bengali literature known as Dharma-mangal.1

While Dharma-puja is a distinct folk tradition, other major Hindu festivals involve puja, which is ceremonial worship. For example, Chhath Puja honors the Sun god Surya and is celebrated in northern Indian states. Durga Puja celebrates the victory of the goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. Diwali, the festival of lights, commemorates the triumph of good over evil, often linked to the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana. These festivals involve various rituals, offerings, and prayers, reflecting the diverse practices within Hinduism.23456