Kahika: ‘Dead’ Becomes Alive
Naveen Nishchal Sharma
Himachal’s culture is unique and traditions have remained largely untouched by external customs. There are villages in this hilly state, which are still following the age old traditions. Some of them are weird too, but people here enjoy those with much fervour and joy. Kahika Fair is one of those weird events in the state, which makes a ‘dead’ man alive. Celebrated in Kullu and Mandi districts, it is believed that local deity bestows a ‘dead’ man with life. Recently, Kahika Fair was held at Surahan village in Mandi district after five years. The event attracted many people because of their religious beliefs. It started with a traditional khel called Dev Khelth performed by chief gurs of the deity. People confessed their sins and regretted. The chariot of Dev Hurang Narayan was taken to the entire village after which temple priests welcomed them with their traditional musical instruments. Then chhidra process was performed by the Nad and other people who were present there to get rid off their sins.
Nad Som Dutt Gets Life
On the third day, Kahika was performed by the Nad Som Dutt, who was chosen by the deity to perform Kahika. First, he took blessings of the Dev Hurang Narayan. Then gur of the devta poured water and bekhal leaves on the Nad and an idol of the deity was placed on his chest. Consequently, the Nad became unconscious and was placed on a wooden plank like a corpse. Then all the Nads and wife of the Nad performing Kahika abused each other during a ceremony. Then all family members of the Nad Som Dutt cried in front of the devta to give him life once again. Then the bier (funeral procession) of the unconscious Nad was taken round the temple. After a couple of hours, deity returns life to Nad. During Kahika Fair, entire village wears a festive look. It is believed that a Nad, who is not serious about observing Kahika rules, recovers late and may even die, though this is a rare happening. In such cases, all offering of the devta are given to his wife as compensation.
Nad Community
The Nad community is traditionally linked with other local communities in ritual basis in removing their sins and treating bewitched persons. They accept only sidha or sukka food.
विवाह प्रस्ताव की तलाश कर रहे हैं ? भारत मैट्रीमोनी में निःशुल्क रजिस्टर करें !
Keep watching our YouTube Channel ‘Divya Himachal TV’. Also, Download our Android App
