Wathop Puja in Tripura is a fascinating blend of indigenous traditions

Wathop Puja in Tripura is a fascinating blend of indigenous traditions, nature worship, and unique customs. Let's explore this distinctive form of worship:

1. Deities and Nature Worship:

•     The people of Tripura are essentially naturists and nature worshippers.
•     In Tripura society, deities are composed of various natural elements, including forest, water, soil, sky, moon, sun, planets, stars, and the cosmos.
•     Unlike idol worship, where physical representations are used, Tripura's puja ceremonies focus on symbolic elements associated with the deities.

2. Wathop (Seat of Worship):

•     During Wathop Puja, the seat of worship is created using bamboo.
•     Various symbolic items are used in the puja, including:
  •       Dip: A lamp or light.
  •       Marai: A type of sacred thread or cord.
  •       Khong: A bell.
  •       Nagri: A conch shell.
  •       Thalongma: Other ritual objects.
•     These elements serve as aggregates of worship, representing the divine presence.

3. Priests and Rituals:

•     Idol worship is not practiced in Tripura society, even among tribal communities.
•     Instead, the puja ceremonies are conducted by priests known as Ochai, Chantai, Deorai, or Achai.
•     The puja rituals are performed according to customs, culture, and religion, handed down through generations.
•     The involvement of Brahmins is not necessary, as the community members actively participate in the ceremonies.

4. Benevolent and Malevolent Deities:

•     Tripura society reveres both benevolent and malevolent deities.
•     The benevolent deities, such as Rondokmwtai (Mailuma/Khuluma) and Noksumwtai, receive regular worship.
•     These deities are associated with natural forces and cosmic elements, emphasizing the interconnectedness of life.