Centuries-old Charak Puja draws crowds in Brahmanbaria with daring rituals

Charak Puja, an exceptional and age-old Hindu religious festival, was celebrated today (14 April) in Nasirnagar upazila of Brahmanbaria, marking the end of the Bengali month of Chaitra.

Organised by the local community, the event took place at the Kamargaon Rishipara field and attracted hundreds of spectators of all ages from across the district.

The festival's main attraction was a series of extraordinary physical feats performed by devotees of Lord Shiva, a Hindu god. In a stunning display of devotion, participants were seen spinning from a Charak tree with large metal hooks pierced into their backs. Others lay on sharp iron rods and blades, pierced their bodies and faces with iron spikes, and even walked barefoot across burning embers. All these were done as acts of spiritual sacrifice.

Photo: TBS

A traditional village fair was also held beside the field.

Charak Puja has been celebrated for hundreds of years in this region as part of the Gajan festival, a centuries-old observance in honour of Lord Shiva.

According to believers, these acts of physical endurance symbolise self-sacrifice and are performed to seek divine protection from malevolent forces.

Bishnupad Rishi, a resident of Fandauk village, said, "This puja is close to our hearts. The tantric rituals bring us immense joy. We hope this tradition continues year after year."

Photo: TBS

Sunanda Dey from Sarail upazila said, "Charak Puja is a part of our Bengali cultural heritage. I've been attending it since my childhood, and now I bring my children to witness it as well."

Speaking on the spiritual significance, ascetic Deepak Roy said, "We perform Charak Puja to feel the presence of Mahadev [Lord Shiva]. The mantras give the devotees the strength to walk through fire and hang from hooks. It is a test of spiritual power and devotion."