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Villagers Pelt Each Other in Ancient Stone Ritual
10 Nov
Summary
- Villagers engage in a stone-pelting ritual after Diwali.
- The nearly 400-year-old tradition involves stones until minor injury.
- It is believed to have replaced ancient human sacrifices to the goddess.
The village of Dhami in Himachal Pradesh recently observed its unique 'Patthar Ka Khel,' an ancient stone-pelting ritual held annually on the day following Diwali. This tradition, with roots stretching back nearly 400 years, sees villagers divided into two groups who hurl stones at each other.
The ritual continues until a participant sustains a minor injury, after which a few drops of their blood are offered to Goddess Bhadrakali. This centuries-old custom is believed to have originated as a replacement for ancient human sacrifices historically performed to appease the deity and seek protection.
The practice continues to draw significant crowds to Dhami each year. Participants and spectators alike gather to witness and partake in this unique ceremonial event, which has been a part of the local culture for centuries.
