| A real
confluence of the non-Aryan and the Aryan religious thoughts is seen in the induction of
the worship of Manasa now fully adopted throughout the district of Bankura. The potters of
the two villages Sonamukhi and Panchmura turn out thousands of Mansachali and Mansa or the
snake goddess. The story of Chand Saudagar, which has been mentioned elsewhere, is
very well-known throughout Bankura district. The
adoption of the worship of Dharmaraj by the Hindu is also another impact of non-Aryan
influence Dharmaraj may be represented by a small mound of earth or by a triangular or a
round or egg-shaped piece of stone or an image of tortoise. Peoplecongregate in
thousands at the different dharmasthans in Bankura district for the worship of Dharmaraj
to whom promises (manat) are either made or on the fulfillment of the wish puja is
offered.
Dharmaraj receives sacrifices of goats, fowls and pigeons.
Earthen his (priests) of Dharmaraj or Dharma Thakur mostly comes from the Dom community,
an untouchable schedule caste. At some villages Brahmin priests are also engaged to
worship Dharmaraj or Dharma Thakur. One of the most famous representations of Dharmaraj is
in a temple at Sankharipara of Bishnupur town. |
