Kharchi Puja 2025 - Date, Significance & Rituals of the Festival
Kharchi Puja is a festival where the 14 gods that comprise the dynastic deity of the Tripuri community are worshipped in the state of Tripura in northeast India.
The rituals are observed for a whole week in the temple dedicated to the 14 gods which is located in the state's capital city of Agartala. The festival is celebrated on the 8th day of the new moon in the month of July. It can also sometimes fall in the month of June or August.
Festival Name | Date | States |
Kharchi Puja | Thursday, 03 July 2025 | Tripura |
Origin of the Festival
The word ''kharchi'' means ''earth'' and is derived from the word ''khya''. It is also derived from the words ''khar'' which means ''sin'' and ''chi'' which means ''cleaning''. So it is a festival where there is a ritual cleaning of the earth. This is a festival that worships the earth, along with the 14 dynastic deities, and has tribal origins. However, it is celebrated by both tribal and non-tribal communities.
Mythology Behind the Festival
According to the mythology behind the festival, the earth mother or mother goddess menstruates during this time, which is called Ama pechi or Ambu bachi. The soil is not ploughed during these days since the earth is considered to be unclean during the period of menstruation of the mother goddess. The Kharchi puja is conducted to ritualistically clean out the earth after her menstruation is over.
Significance of Kharchi Puja in Tripura Culture
Kharchi Puja is one of the most important cultural and religious festivals in Tripura, deeply rooted in the traditions of the indigenous communities. It honors the fourteen deities known as the “Chaturdasa Devata,” who are believed to protect the land and its people. The festival symbolizes purification, renewal, and the harmonious relationship between humans and nature. It reinforces tribal identity, fosters social unity, and preserves the rich heritage of Tripura’s tribal culture.
Rituals
The rituals associated with the Kharch puja lasts for 7 days. On the day of the puja, from the temple premises in Agartala, the idols of the 14 deities are carried to the Saidra river, which is considered to be holy. After a dip in the river, they are carried back to the temple. After the ritual bath, the idols are decorated with flowers and vermillion paste on their foreheads.
How is Kharchi Puja Celebrated?
Kharchi Puja is celebrated with great devotion over seven days. The festivities begin with the ceremonial bath of the fourteen deities, which is believed to cleanse the earth and the community from impurities. Devotees offer prayers, flowers, and traditional food to the gods. Ritual animal sacrifices, especially pigs, are performed as part of the worship. The celebration also features vibrant cultural programs, including traditional music, dance, and community feasts, creating an atmosphere of joy and reverence.
Festivities
A wide variety of sweets are offered as ''prasad''. The meat of goat, buffalo, and pigeons is also offered as sacrifices to the gods and taken as ''prasad''. A magnificent fair is organised where cultural programmes are conducted all through the day. Thousands of people take part in these festivities.
Public Holiday
Although festivities last for a week, a public holiday is declared by the government for one day.
Best Places to Witness Kharchi Puja
The best places to experience Kharchi Puja are in Tripura, primarily in Agartala, the state capital, where the main festival events are held. The famous Kharchi Temple, located about 30 km from Agartala, is the central hub of the celebrations. Other tribal regions and villages around the Jampui Hills and other parts of Tripura also offer authentic cultural experiences of the festival, showcasing traditional rituals and folk performances.
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FAQs on Kharchi Puja
- What is Kharchi Puja?
Kharchi Puja is a traditional Hindu festival celebrated primarily in the Indian state of Tripura. It is dedicated to the worship of fourteen gods, known as the “Chaturdasa Devata.” The festival symbolizes the purification of the earth and the cleansing of sins, invoking blessings for health, prosperity, and protection from evil spirits.
- When is Kharchi Puja celebrated in 2025?
Kharchi Puja is usually celebrated in the month of July or August, according to the Hindu lunar calendar. In 2025, Kharchi Puja will be observed from [insert exact dates once available], spanning seven days of rituals, prayers, and cultural festivities.
- What is the significance of Kharchi Puja?
Kharchi Puja holds great religious and cultural importance in Tripura. It marks the cleansing of the earth and the appeasement of the deities for the well-being of the community. It also signifies the triumph of good over evil and reinforces faith in divine protection. The festival strengthens community bonds and preserves ancient tribal traditions.
- Is Kharchi Puja a public holiday?
Yes, Kharchi Puja is declared a public holiday in Tripura. Government offices, schools, and many businesses remain closed during the main days of the festival to allow people to participate in the celebrations and rituals.
- Where is Kharchi Puja mainly celebrated?
Kharchi Puja is mainly celebrated in the state of Tripura, especially in the capital Agartala and surrounding tribal areas. It is a major cultural event for the indigenous communities of Tripura, including the Tripuri, Jamatia, and Reang tribes.
- What traditional foods are associated with Kharchi Puja?
During Kharchi Puja, traditional Tripuri cuisine is prepared and shared among families and the community. Popular dishes include rice, fish curry, bamboo shoot preparations, pork delicacies, and various tribal sweets. These foods play a vital role in the communal celebrations and rituals.
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