Bura-Buri
Story/Legend:
According to Ho mythology, Bura and Buri were born from the union of the sun god and a female elephant. Bura is depicted as a male deity who holds a bow and arrow, while Buri is depicted as a female deity who holds a child in her arms. The Ho people believe that Bura-Buri have the power to bring prosperity, fertility, and protection to the tribe.
Religious Aspect:
Bura-Buri are worshipped as the primary deities of the Ho tribe. The tribe believes that the deities are responsible for protecting them from natural disasters, including floods and droughts, and bringing prosperity and fertility to their land. The worship of Bura-Buri is an integral part of Ho culture and is performed during various festivals and ceremonies throughout the year.
Description:
Bura is depicted as a male deity with a muscular build, holding a bow and arrow. He is often depicted wearing a crown and carrying a quiver of arrows on his back. Buri, on the other hand, is depicted as a female deity with a gentle expression, holding a child in her arms. She is often adorned with jewelry and is depicted wearing a crown.
Cultural Importance:
Bura-Buri are an important part of Ho culture and identity. The worship of the deities is performed during various festivals and ceremonies throughout the year, including the Sarhul festival, which marks the beginning of the agricultural season. The Ho people also believe that Bura-Buri have the power to protect them from natural disasters, which are a frequent occurrence in the region.
Festivals:
The worship of Bura-Buri is an integral part of various festivals and ceremonies celebrated by the Ho tribe throughout the year. The Sarhul festival, which marks the beginning of the agricultural season, is one of the most important festivals of the Ho tribe. During this festival, the Ho people make offerings of flowers, fruits, and other items to Bura-Buri and other deities.
Conclusion:
Bura-Buri are the god and goddess of the Ho tribe in Jharkhand and West Bengal. They are revered as the protectors of the tribe and are believed to have the power to bring fertility and protect the tribe from natural disasters. The worship of Bura-Buri is an integral part of Ho culture and identity and is performed during various festivals and ceremonies throughout the year.
References:
FAQs:
Q: Are there any specific rituals associated with the worship of Bura-Buri? A: Yes, there are several rituals associated with the worship of Bura-Buri, which may include offering prayers and hymns, making offerings of flowers and fruits, and performing dances and songs.
Q: Is the worship of Bura-Buri unique to the Ho tribe? A: Yes, the worship of Bura-Buri is unique to the Ho tribe and is not commonly worshipped by other tribes or communities in India.
Q: Are there any specific myths or legends associated with Bura-Buri? A: Yes, according to Ho mythology, Bura-Buri were born from the union of the sun god and a female elephant. The legend goes that the sun god had taken the form of a mahout (elephant rider) and rode an elephant to the Ho village. The female elephant became pregnant by the sun god, and she gave birth to Bura-Buri. The Ho people believe that Bura-Buri have the power to protect their tribe and bring prosperity and fertility to their land.
Q: Are there any specific rituals associated with the worship of Bura-Buri? A: Yes, the Ho people have several rituals and practices associated with the worship of Bura-Buri. They offer their prayers to the natural elements associated with the deities and make offerings to them during their worship. Animal sacrifice is also a part of some of their festivals, such as Sarhul and Sohrai.
Q: How do the Ho people perceive the gender roles represented by Bura-Buri? A: Bura is perceived as the provider and protector, while Buri is considered the nurturer and caretaker. The Ho people believe that the balance between the masculine and feminine energies represented by Bura-Buri is essential for the prosperity of their tribe.
Q: Are there any conservation efforts being made to protect the natural resources associated with Bura-Buri? A: Yes, over the years, deforestation, mining, and other development activities have threatened the natural resources that the Ho people consider sacred. To address this issue, several organizations and individuals have been working towards the conservation of these resources, including the forests and water bodies that the Ho people consider sacred.
Q: Is the worship of Bura-Buri still prevalent among the Ho people? A: Yes, the worship of Bura-Buri is still prevalent among the Ho people, and they continue to follow the traditional practices associated with their worship. The tribe also celebrates several festivals that revolve around the worship of Bura-Buri, such as Sarhul and Sohrai.
Q: Are there any specific stories or legends associated with Bura-Buri? A: Yes, according to Ho mythology, Bura and Buri were born from the union of the sun god and a mermaid. The legend states that when the sun god was traveling across the ocean, he saw a beautiful mermaid and was captivated by her beauty. He fell in love with her and they had two children, Bura and Buri.
Q: How are Bura-Buri worshipped in everyday life? A: Bura-Buri are worshipped by the Ho people in everyday life through various rituals and offerings. They are believed to protect and bless the tribe, and so their images are prominently displayed in households and places of worship. The Ho people also offer prayers and make offerings to them during their daily routines, such as before starting work in the fields.
Q: What is the significance of the festivals associated with Bura-Buri? A: The festivals associated with Bura-Buri, such as Sarhul and Sohrai, are significant for the Ho people as they mark important events in their agricultural cycle. These festivals are celebrated to give thanks to Bura-Buri for their blessings and to seek their continued protection and fertility.
Q: Are there any taboos associated with the worship of Bura-Buri? A: Yes, there are certain taboos associated with the worship of Bura-Buri. For example, during the Sarhul festival, the Ho people refrain from consuming any food cooked outside their households, and they also avoid plucking fruits or flowers from trees during this time.
Q: Are there any conflicts or issues related to the worship of Bura-Buri? A: In recent times, conflicts have arisen between the Ho people and the government over the use of the natural resources that are considered sacred by the tribe. Development activities such as mining and deforestation have threatened these resources and caused tensions between the Ho people and the government. The Ho people have been protesting against these activities and have been demanding their right to protect their sacred resources.
