Obstructing Tradition During Mari Jatre Is Unforgivable: Devotion Must Be Accompanied by Reverence and Fear, Warn Devotees – Jagadish Bhat Sagara
Sagara :- Local devotees and elders have issued a strong warning that any kind of interference while observing ancient folk and scriptural traditions such as the Mari Jatre is an unforgivable offense and could bring harm to the entire village.
No one should intervene between Mariyamma and the ritual circle (mandala). Especially, children should not be present there, as the moment is extremely dangerous, they stated. “This is not a matter for amusement. If any accident occurs, neither the authorities nor the committee members will take responsibility,” they expressed.
The Mari Jatre is a unique folk ritual conducted with the belief that it will drive away diseases and epidemics from the village and ensure that all people live in health and happiness. If people sit directly in front and obstruct the ritual instead of allowing it to proceed properly, the very purpose of the jatre is lost, it was explained.
If officials, committee members, or VIPs wish to take photographs, they are welcome to pose freely on the cultural stage. However, displaying arrogance of authority in front of Mariyamma is not good for anyone—it can cause harm not only to the individual, but also to their family, household, and the entire village, they warned.
“What has happened has already happened. Such incidents should not be repeated in the future,” they appealed. Along with devotion, devotees emphasized that there must also be reverential fear toward Mariyamma.
“We are servants of the Mother; the Mother is not our servant,” was the message conveyed, along with a prayer that the Mother may protect everyone.
By:- Meghana Ganesh
