Story/Legend:

The Santhal tribe believes that Baske is responsible for providing them with food and protecting them from evil spirits. According to legend, Baske once came down to earth to teach the Santhal people the art of agriculture. He showed them how to cultivate the land, sow seeds, and harvest crops. He also taught them the importance of respecting nature and the environment.

Religious Aspect:

Baske is considered to be a powerful and benevolent god, who is worshipped by the Santhal people for his ability to provide them with food and protect them from evil spirits. The Santhals believe that Baske is present in all living things, and that he must be respected and appeased through various rituals and ceremonies.

Description:

Baske is usually depicted as a tall, muscular man with a beard and long hair. He is often shown carrying a bow and arrow, a sickle, or a plough. Baske is associated with the sun and is often depicted wearing a crown of sun rays. In some depictions, he is shown with his consort, Jaher Era, who is the goddess of the forest and the earth.

Cultural importance:

Baske is an important figure in Santhal culture, and his worship is an integral part of their social and religious life. The Santhals believe that Baske is responsible for their well-being and prosperity, and they offer prayers and sacrifices to him during various festivals and ceremonies.

Festivals:

The Santhal tribe celebrates several festivals in honor of Baske. The most important festival is the Sohrae festival, which is celebrated in the month of March or April. The festival marks the beginning of the agricultural season, and is celebrated with singing, dancing, and feasting. The Santhals offer prayers and sacrifices to Baske during the festival, and seek his blessings for a good harvest.

Conclusion:

Baske is an important deity in Santhal culture, and his worship is an integral part of the tribe's social and religious life. The Santhals believe that Baske is responsible for their well-being and prosperity, and they offer prayers and sacrifices to him during various festivals and ceremonies. Baske is considered to be a powerful and benevolent god, who is believed to have the power to protect the tribe from evil spirits and bring good harvest.

References:

"Baske - The God of Agriculture in Santhal Folklore" by Akshay Maurya, Culture Trip

"Baske: The God of Agriculture" by Shashwat Pradhan, The Statesman

"Santhal tribe's Baske Puja begins in Bankura" by Mousumi Pramanick, The Times of India

FAQs:

Q: What is the Sohrae festival? A: The Sohrae festival is an important festival celebrated by the Santhal tribe in honor of Baske. It marks the beginning of the agricultural season, and is celebrated with singing, dancing, and feasting. The Santhals offer prayers and sacrifices to Baske during the festival, and seek his blessings for a good harvest.

Q: What is the significance of Baske in Santhal culture? A: Baske is considered to be a powerful and benevolent god, who is worshipped by the Santhal people for his ability to provide them with food and protect them from harm. He is also believed to be a mediator between the living and the dead, and is often invoked during funerals and other rituals associated with death. Baske is an integral part of Santhal culture, and his worship is an important aspect of their social and religious life.