Story/Legend:

According to Santhal mythology, Sarna was created by the Supreme Being, Thakur Jiu. It is said that when Thakur Jiu created the universe, he created Sarna to protect the forests and the animals that lived in them. Sarna is also believed to have helped the Santhal people during times of trouble and danger.

Religious Aspect:

Sarna worship is an important aspect of Santhal religion. The Santhal people believe that Sarna is the protector of the tribe and the forests. They believe that by worshiping Sarna, they can gain his blessings and protection. Sarna worship is marked by various rituals and ceremonies, including offerings of food and drink, dance and music performances, and the use of traditional Santhal instruments.

Description:

Sarna is usually depicted as a female deity, often with a stickher hand. She is also depicted as wearing a white cloth. Sarna is associated with the forests and is believed to be the protector of animals and plants.

Cultural Importance:

Sarna worship is an important part of Santhal culture. It is an expression of their reverence for nature and their deep connection to the forests. Sarna worship is also a way for the Santhal people to connect with their ancestors and their traditional way of life.

Festivals:

The Santhal people celebrate a number of festivals throughout the year, many of which are related to Sarna worship. One such festival is Sohrai, which is celebrated in the month of Kartik (October-November) to thank Sarna for the harvest. Another important festival is Sarhul, which is celebrated in the month of Chaitra (March-April) to welcome the spring and seek Sarna's blessings.

Conclusion:

Sarna worship is an important part of Santhal culture and religion. It is an expression of their deep reverence for nature and their traditional way of life. Sarna is believed to be the protector of the tribe and the forests, and by worshiping Sarna, the Santhal people seek his blessings and protection.

References:

• "Sarna Religion." Santhalworld.com. Accessed 3 Apr. 2023.
• "Sarna Religion and its Cultural Heritage." IJHSSI, vol. 4, no. 10, 2015, pp. 109-118.

FAQs:

Q: What is the Santhal tribe? A: The Santhal tribe is an indigenous tribe of India and Bangladesh, predominantly located in the states of Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha in India, as well as in parts of Bangladesh.

Q: What is the significance of Sarna worship? A: Sarna worship is an expression of the Santhal people's deep reverence for nature and their traditional way of life. It is also believed to be a way to seek protection and blessings from Sarna, who is believed to be the protector of the tribe and the forests.

Q: What are some important festivals related to Sarna worship? A: Sohrai and Sarhul are two important festivals related to Sarna worship. Sohrai is celebrated in the month of Kartik to thank Sarna for the harvest.

Q: Are there any other deities worshiped by the Santhal tribe? A: Yes, the Santhal people believe in a number of other deities and spirits, which are an integral part of their religious beliefs and practices. Some of these include Marang Buru (the god of the mountains), Jaher Era (the spirit of the sacred grove), and Manjhi (the ancestral spirit).

Q: What are some of the rituals and ceremonies associated with Sarna worship? A: Sarna worship is marked by various rituals and ceremonies, including offerings of food and drink, dance and music performances, and the use of traditional Santhal instruments. The Santhal people also perform animal sacrifices on certain occasions, although this practice is becoming less common in modern times.

Q: How has Sarna worship changed over time? A: Sarna worship has evolved over time, and has been influenced by factors such as colonization, modernization, and globalization. Some Santhal people have converted to other religions such as Christianity or Hinduism, while others have adapted Sarna worship to suit changing circumstances.

Q: What is the current status of the Santhal tribe? A: The Santhal tribe is recognized as a Scheduled Tribe under the Constitution of India, which provides certain protections and benefits to indigenous communities. However, like many indigenous communities around the world, the Santhal people face challenges such as poverty, discrimination, and loss of land and resources. Efforts are being made to promote their cultural heritage and protect their rights.