Dehradun: In this hilly village of Jaunsar-Bawar in Uttarakhand's Dehradun district, the nine-day long culturally rich 'Thati Maati' pooja came to an end. During this pooja, a pre-designated area called Thati, is worshipped. All the villagers take part in the rituals and pray for the well being of villagers.
A diya is lit after prayers in the main area. After this, for the next nine days, 'Paandav dance' is performed around the area and 'Hawan' is also done. It is believed that during the Paandav dance, the male or female member of the village, who is blessed with the shadow of Paandava’s, dances to the tune of Dhol and Damaru.
On the last day, the land is also divided. In this, it is believed that Pandaava’s take a mortal form and divide the land. A plow is also used in the land. It is believed that by doing so, the farm’s and the farmers are blessed with good fortune.
Keshavram, an elderly from the village tells that, that this pooja practice is being carried from historical times. During this time the 'thati' of the village is worshipped. An earthen lamp is lit on the thati for nine days.
It is believed that by doing this, there is progress and growth in the farming animals of the farmers.
