This Unique Ritual In Karnataka Village Has Young Women Crying On Diwali

In the Diwali celebrations of Gajendragad town, the scene unfolds with young women adorning traditional attire, lighting lamps, and bestowing blessings upon village elders. The Kanyamanis, dressed in their cultural finery, exchange hugs, often accompanied by tears of joy. The essence of Diwali 2023 captures these emotional moments amidst the Lambani community’s rich traditions. The celebration includes a collective journey to a nearby hill, where flowers are gathered with the accompaniment of Lambani lyrical songs. Rituals follow, such as crafting hattevvan from dung, placing it at doorsteps, and offering worship. The festivities culminate in vibrant dances and celebrations in front of the Sewalal temple in Tanda.

Post-dance, the young women in Tanda share heartfelt hugs, shedding tears as those getting married next year contemplate missing these joyous moments with their girlfriends during Diwali. The emotional atmosphere reflects the deep connection to the festival, creating a lively Diwali celebration that fills every home in Tanda with festive cheer.

Unmarried young women, adorned in traditional Lambani attire, converge outside the Tanda chief’s house. Together, they embark on a journey to the nearby forest, singing a harmonious Lambani song. In the forest, they gather an array of colourful flowers. Returning to the Tanda, these young women sprinkle the flowers inside houses, blend them with dung, and conduct a special pooja dedicated to the village deity. Subsequently, in the village hall, the women don traditional attire, sing their cultural song, and synchronize their steps in a rhythmic takkant, creating a vibrant celebration of Lambani traditions.

On this occasion, the girls devoutly observe a fast and joyously celebrate the Festival of Lights through dance and cultural festivities. Prashantha Rathoda, the leader of Tanda, emphasizes environmental preservation by refraining from bursting firecrackers while still upholding their tradition and culture. Diwali, the Festival of Lights, holds special significance for the people of Gajendragad Tanda, highlighting the unique rituals that symbolize unity amidst the diverse cultural landscape.