Jharkhand News : An unusual yet age-old ritual caught public attention in Jharkhand’s East Singhbhum district. In a settlement on Shankosai Road No. 5 under the Ulidih police station area, members of the Ho community performed a symbolic ceremony during Harmangeya, the concluding day of the Mage festival. As per tradition, two young boys were symbolically married to a female dog to neutralize what is believed to be an inauspicious planetary influence.
Why is this ritual performed?
Community elders explained that if a child’s upper teeth erupt before the lower teeth, it is traditionally considered an inauspicious sign. To prevent potential misfortune or accidents later in life, a special ritual is performed. The belief holds that a symbolic marriage to a dog or female dog removes adverse planetary effects and safeguards the child’s future. This custom continues to be observed by some Ho families even today.
Processions and celebrations
On this occasion, separate wedding processions were taken out for Rupesh Hembram (4), son of Ajay Hembram, and Surya Soy (2), son of Lakshman Soy. Amid the beats of drums and traditional instruments, both children were dressed in customary attire. Family members and villagers joined the processions with singing and dancing, creating a festive atmosphere across the locality.
Traditional rituals completed
Before the main ceremony, all customary rites—samdhi milan, engagement, haldi, and foot-worship rituals—were duly performed. Women sang traditional wedding songs, while elders conducted prayers according to custom. The principal marriage ritual was then performed beneath a Saar tree.
Belief associated with the Saar tree
According to Ho community beliefs, the Saar tree possesses special spiritual power. Performing the ritual beneath it is believed to transfer the planetary dosha from the children to the tree, thereby eliminating the ill effect and ensuring a safe and prosperous future for the children.
While unusual to outsiders, the ritual reflects the community’s deep-rooted faith in tradition and cultural practices passed down through generations.
