Devotees Pierce Their Backs and Swing on Hooks to Fulfill Vows at Bhimapur During Khai Phoda Festival
Satyabadi, 14.04.2024 – Singhari Alok Khuntia:
On the auspicious occasion of Mahabishuba Sankranti, the famous Khai Phoda festival was observed at the Maa Gadachandi shrine in Bhimapur village, Satyabadi. According to local belief, if devotees pierce their backs and swing from hooks on this day, their heartfelt wishes are fulfilled.
Guided by this belief, more than a hundred ‘Manasik’ (vow-keepers) Patuas (devotees) hung from a 30-foot-high Khai (bamboo structure) with hooks pierced into their backs to receive the grace of the goddess. Despite the intense summer heat, these devotees displayed unwavering faith and discipline.
For a month prior, the vow-holders observed strict rituals — eating only prescribed food (Havishanna) and offering Kanta Puja (rituals involving thorns) to Maa Gadachandi every Tuesday. During this month-long period, they remain separated from their families and follow specific rituals.
On the day of Mahabishuba Sankranti, the Manasik devotees prostrate before Maa Gadachandi early in the morning. After completion of the goddess’s rituals, the Kalisi (ritual leaders) receive divine permission (Agyan Mala) and proceed to a nearby pond. There, the Kalisis pierce the backs of the Manasik devotees with hooks and lead a procession back from the pond to the temple premises.
At the temple ground, the devotees, suspended by ropes tied through the pierced hooks on their backs, hang from the Khai, which is raised about 30 hands (approximately 45 feet) high. As per tradition, the Kalisi swings first, followed by the Manasik devotees.
During this ritual, it is believed that if women from Fingal and Khajuri Koli areas touch the swinging Kalisi, they will be blessed with children. Similarly, if sick children are held by the Kalisi or Manasik devotees while swinging, it is believed they will recover from illnesses and gain blessings.
Despite the scorching sun, thousands of devotees took part in this year’s celebration, seeking the blessings of Maa Gadachandi and becoming part of this unique and traditional festival.
