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Village goes silent for nature's call
27 Sep
Summary
- Life halts for 48 hours to protect nature and vegetation.
- Outsiders are restricted from entering the village.
- A fine of Rs 500 is imposed for violating rules.
Life in Mainaha village, West Champaran, has been transformed by the commencement of the traditional Barna festival. For a period of 48 hours, routine activities are suspended, creating a community-managed conservation zone. During this time, residents voluntarily refrain from cutting trees, damaging vegetation, or plucking leaves for food, underscoring a deep respect for nature.
The festival, celebrated by the Tharu community, is not governed by government orders but stems from their traditional social system. Entry for outsiders into the village is also restricted, ensuring the sanctity of the observance. A fine of Rs 500 is prescribed for any violations of these deeply ingrained customs.
This ancient tradition, observed on different dates across Tharuhat villages during Bhadon, begins with prayers and rituals led by Devan gurus. It also honors unmarried girls, viewed as manifestations of Goddess Durga, strengthening both religious faith and the community's ecological commitment.
Narsingh Mahto of the Bharatiya Tharu Kalyan Mahasangh noted that the Barna festival represents a centuries-old, community-based system for environmental protection. He highlighted how tribal communities, through such practices, voluntarily take on the responsibility for nature conservation, a model that predates formal governmental conservation efforts.
