Ker Puja

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Context

Ker Puja is a festival in the state of Tripura, India.
On this occasion PM Modi wished for joy, harmony, health and prosperity for the citizens of Tripura.

Ker Puja

Ker, meaning austerity, is an annual festival of Tripura held after 2 weeks of Kharchi Puja.
In the Kokborok, a local tribal language, Ker means boundary or specific area.
It is held in the honour of the guardian deity of Vastu, Ker Devata.

Process of Ker Puja

The puja was initiated by the Tripura raja at royal Ujjayanta palace of Tripura.
During Ker a particular area is demarcated and bounded by a large piece of green bamboo, which is a symbolic representation of Ker.
The puja generally takes place in morning preferably from 8 A.M to 10 A.M.
For 2.5 days during the puja, all entry points to the capital city are closed to disallow entry and exit.
All the elderly, weak or expectant mothers are shifted to nearby villages.
The puja temporarily restricts wearing shoes, lighting a fire in particular for participants; and also restricts all kinds of amusement, recreation and ceremonies in general.
During Ker Puja offerings, sacrifices are made to please gods for the welfare of the villages so that they can save them from calamities, epidemics and external aggression.

History and Background

However there is no documented evidence, it is believed to be a centuries old tradition (at least five centuries).
Manikya Dynasty, in 15^th century, is believed to start this tradition of worshipping Ker.
As per an agreement signed by the then regent queen Kanchan Prabha Devi in 1949, Tripura government will continue to bear the expenses of all pujas and temples earlier under patronage of the royal family.

Significance

Must Read Article:

Kharchi Puja

PRACTICE QUESTION

Consider the following statements about Ker Puja:

1. Puja is celebrated in Tripura to please Ker deity by dancing and singing songs of devotion.

2. It is a festival of Tripura state which is held before 2 weeks of Kharchi Puja.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only

B. 2 only

C. Both 1 and 2

D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (D)