Debdatta Chakraborty
Karam Puja is a harvest festival and a tribute to the Karam tree. This tree symbolises fertility, prosperity and everything that is auspicious. During the festival, the branch of the Karam tree is carried by the Karma dancers accompanied by singing and dancing. Smeared with milk and rice beer, this branch is raised in the middle of the spot where the group performs dance. The festival is vibrant, interesting and a lovely sight.
The Santhal tribe
Tribe Santhal
Geography East India
State Bengal
The Santhal tribes are a major tribe of West Bengal. They are also seen in parts of Bihar, Odisha, and Assam and are the largest tribe in Jharkhand. They depend on agriculture and livestock for their living and are great hunters. In addition to traditional festivals like Karam and Sohrai, Santhali dance and music is a major attraction.