Arnam A Bari (Garden of God) and Shad Domahi (The “Domahi” Dance)

Arnam A Bari (Garden of God) – Plasha

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The timeless ritual known as Arnam A Bari, or the "Garden of God," has been a cherished tradition in our village for generations. In olden days, this sacred garden was diligently tended by the Lyngdoh, the village priest.

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Every year, the sowing season begins with the priest offering prayer at the sanctified site, “Dehalpe.” The following day, all the community members will converge at the plot designated as the sacred garden. Participation in the Arnam a Bari ritual was not a choice; it was an obligation. It was mandatory for one member of each household in the village to be present. The significance of this obligation was underscored by a system of fines imposed on those who failed to attend. However, this fine had to be paid in the form of rice beer, and the absentee was responsible for brewing it and giving livestock. While females can observe the proceedings, only the males are engaged in the preparation and establishment of the garden.

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The ritual begins with fencing the boundaries of the garden about 0.5 to 1 acre of area with bamboo. Any remnants of old fences must be removed and replaced with new ones.  The men, old and young, married and unmarried, enter the garden and carefully prepare the soil readying the place for sowing. This is accompanied by chanting and beating of drums to invoke divine blessing. Those standing outside the garden regularly spray the soil with water symbolic of the rains.  Except for the elderly men, taking a break and even sitting down is prohibited and all must remain on their feet. Exiting the garden is forbidden before the completion of the process. Violations of these rules incur fines.

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After the land is meticulously prepared, the priest leads the community in a solemn prayer, invoking divine blessings upon the soil. Rice beer is reverently sprinkled over the earth, symbolizing communion with the divine and the sanctification of the land. Under the guidance of the Lyngdoh, who meticulously curated and prepared the seeds and planting materials for crops like taro, maize, cotton, and others designated for planting, the community collectively engages  in the sowing of the crops. Guided by tradition and his wisdom, the Lyngdoh seeks divine blessings for the seeds, protection from pests and a bountiful harvest to feed the households.  This was followed by a joyous dance to celebrate the completion of the sowing.  This marks the auspicious beginning of the sowing period. Following this ritual, all the community members are permitted to commence the sowing of crops of their choice in their fields.

 

Shad Domahi - Plasha

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The month of April, as winter fades into summer, also marks the end of the year. This marks a shift from festivities to the vital task of preparing the lands for cultivation and growing food. Central to this transition is the performance of the traditional dance, the Shad Domahi,  symbolising the conclusion of celebrations for the year.

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On the appointed day, cattle from every part of the village are guided to the sacred location known as "chorong lang palu," situated near the paddy fields. Cows, especially revered for their multifaceted support to humanity, from sustenance to labour, are held in high regard. Their well-being is paramount to maintaining this support. As a gesture of gratitude and to seek blessings upon themselves, the cows are bathed and sprinkled with water.

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Following the bathing of the cows, the community engages in the traditional Domahi dance, reminiscent of carolling in other cultures. Groups visit households, where beaten rice and jaggery are shared or exchanged with visitors.

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With the advent of Christianity, the Domahi dance sees participation primarily from the animist members of the village, while others attend the celebration to honour and cherish the values it represents. Despite this shift, the entire community remains dedicated to safeguarding this rich culture and traditions, recognising their significance in defining who we are as a community.