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Baha parab, also known asBaa parab, is a spring festival celebrated by theHo,Santhal,Munda and other tribal communities in India. The word "Baha" or "Baa" means flower. During Baha parab, men, women and children dress in traditional attire, offer flowers to the deitiesMarang Buru andJaher Ayo, and celebrate with the beating ofMadal and Tamak (drums) while dancing in traditional tribal style.[1]
Marking the festival, thenaike ordeuri (the priest) performs a ritual. Akula with flowers and leaves of the Sal tree is offered at theJaherthan (the altar), and devotees pray to Jaher Era, the deity.
After performing the rituals, the naike, along with others, goes from door to door with thekula to bless everyone. People in the household, particularly young girls or women, offer food to the naike. As he is welcomed by a family, his feet are washed with water as a sign of respect.
After the rituals, the second part of the program begins with dances and songs.[2]