The Charak Puja held on the last days of the Bengali month Chaitra (April), is well-known for its rites of body piercing and swirling from a high pole. A “charhak tree” consisting of a long pole with a wheel fixed at the top, is erected. A devotee hangs from this wheel with a hook. The wheel is then spun around with him at high speed. He pierces his body including his tongue with small nails, at times red hot ones. The devotee thus spinning spreads “Prasad”, handmade sweetmeats blessed with chants, among the curious spectators and onlookers. The root of this ritual lies in the belief in spirit
The Charak Puja held on the last days of the Bengali month Chaitra (April), is well-known for its rites of body piercing and swirling from a high pole. A “charhak tree” consisting of a long pole with a wheel fixed at the top, is erected. A devotee hangs from this wheel with a hook. The wheel is then spun around with him at high speed. He pierces his body including his tongue with small nails, at times red hot ones. The devotee thus spinning spreads “Prasad”, handmade sweetmeats blessed with chants, among the curious spectators and onlookers. The root of this ritual lies in the belief in spirits and the cult of rebirth. Its rites suggest ancient ritual of human sacrifice.
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