Jaherthan | |
---|---|
Religion | |
Affiliation | Sarna Dharam Sari Dharam |
Deity | Jaher Ayo, Singbonga |
Festivals | Sarhul, Baha parab, Sohrai, etc |
Location | |
Country | India Bangladesh |
Architecture | |
Type | Sacred Grove |
Jaherthan, Jahirathan or Jahergarh (Hindi:जाहेरथान, जाहिराथान, जाहेरगढ़) is a sacred grove which is a residing place of Jaher Ayo and worshiping place of Santal, Bhumij, Paharia and Bedia tribes present in India and Bangladesh.[1][2][3] It is a characteristic feature of a Bhumij and Santal village on the edge of the village where many holy spirits live and where a series of annual festivals take place.[4] This sacred grove is set aside in the founding of the village and left undisturbed except at times of festivals. Inside is set a series of natural (uncut) stones which represent the Bongas, but are not substitutes except during festival.[5][6]
It is also called Sarna sthal, among the Mundas, Santals, and Oraons of Ranchi, Dumka, and Lohardaga regions.