Read the following statements about traditional festivals Laru Kaj and choose the correct option:
1.) Laru Kaj celebrated by Naga tribes in nine or twelve years.
2.) It features a ceremonial pig wedding in honour of Narayana Dev.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Answer — (2) Only Statement 2 is correct
Explanation —
'Laru Kaj' is an extremely significant and traditional festival of the Gond tribe of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.
Statement 1 is incorrect: Laru Kaj is a festival of the Gond tribe, not of the Naga tribes. It is typically celebrated at intervals of nine or twelve years to ensure the prosperity of the family, but it is not associated with Nagaland.
Statement 2 is correct: This festival is primarily celebrated in honor of 'Narayan Dev'. The most unique feature of this ritual is a ceremonial pig wedding. The Gonds believe that worshipping Narayan Dev and offering a pig sacrifice provides the family with protection against diseases and obstacles. During this period, the pig is raised with great affection and care, and subsequently, its marriage is solemnized according to traditional rites.
Additional Points —
Tribe: This festival is primarily a part of the cultural heritage of the tribes of Central India.
Significance: It serves as a means of ancestor worship and of appeasing household deities.
According to the Madhya Pradesh Tribal Museum, 'Laru Kaj' is regarded as a symbol of peace and harmony within Gond culture.
Potential Exam Questions and Answers —
Question: To which deity is 'Laru Kaj' primarily dedicated?
Answer: Narayan Dev.
Question: What are some other major dances or festivals of the Gond tribe?
Answer: Karma Dance, Madai Mela, and Bhagoria (prevalent among both the Bhil and Gond tribes).