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Common Customs
The Thoda and The Buhana
The Thoda custom which probably originated in the Pauranic past, can be
seen in the village fairs in the tribal areas. This is a competition in
archery in the memory of the Pandavas. In this the interested parties
form two teams, one called Pashi and other Sathi. The players then shoot
arrows at spots marked near the feet. If the arrow hits the target the
player jumps up and names one of the five pandava brothers.
The Buhana custom is a beautiful example of community
feelings within the farming communities. In some area this is also known
as Hela or Jwari. The planting of seedlings, weeding, hoeing and harvesting
are all community activities here, and are performed co-operatively. This
custom is beneficial to the smaller and poorer farmers whose necessary
chores are thus completed on time without expense. While the tasks are
being performed by the entire community for one of their brethren, a drummer
stands at a raised spot and beats his drum rhythmically to which all keep
time as they go about their work. At the end of the day's work all the
workers are fed on Bhatedus (thick round bread made of whole wheat flour)
and other delicacies. The women also work with the men and sing to the
beat of the drum.
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