Devotees of Shree Bhagwati in Pernem are
currently seen immersing themselves in the traditional celebrations of Pernem’s
Pournima, locally known as ‘Punav’, that began on the day of ‘Ghatasthapana’
few days ago. During this time of the year, the entire region of Pernem gets
busy with various religious and cultural programmes. During the Dussehra
celebrations in Pernem, one can witness two different ‘Tarangs’ (Umbrella-like
object that is decorated with flowers and cloth said to represent the deity of
the festival) – one of Shree Bhootnath and the other of Shree Rawalnath. The
devotees decorate the Tarang dedicated to the deity Bhootnath with 21 sarees,
while the tarang dedicated to deity Rawalnath sports 19 sarees.
One of the main highlights of the festival
is the exorcism activities that happen here. Many people said to be affected
with negative energies are seen making strange hand and facial gestures.
Devotees claim that several people have been freed of demonic entities after
surrendering themselves to the deity. To witness this practice at the festival,
people gather in huge numbers.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.
Once the exorcism activities are over, it
is said that the deity Bhootnath asks the devotee for a temple in return. Those
who do not fulfill their promise, invite the wrath of the deity because of
which the deity tries to return to its original place. Then, in the chants of
‘Bandh tu saayba’ the locals try to cool down the deity’s temper. Only then,
does the tarang return back to its place. During the Portuguese rule, it is
said that the Governor’s dislike towards the chants of ‘Har Har Mahadev’and the
traditional practices, made him attempt shutting down the festivities. But
thanks to the strong will and the faith of the devotees, the attempt went
futile and the festival continues uninterrupted till date.
