On Sunday 25-08-2024, Hindus in Sindh come together to celebrate the cherished Thadri festival, a vibrant and traditional event honoring the sacred month of Siraman, or Saawan, in the heart of the monsoon season. This festival is a time of joy and communal spirit, where the air is filled with the essence of culture and devotion.
On Thadri, women adorn their homes by decorating doorways and applying mud plaster to kitchens, creating a festive and welcoming atmosphere. A unique aspect of this celebration is the cessation of cooking activities for the day. Instead, families prepare sweet roties, known as mitho lolo, made with pure ghee, which are offered to Shitla Mata, the deity believed to protect against various diseases, including chickenpox (Achbira).
The tradition of exchanging sweet roties with relatives and friends fosters a sense of community and togetherness. While no major cooking occurs, women may prepare fresh food or tea at temporary fireplaces if needed, ensuring that warmth and hospitality remain at the heart of the festivities.
Thadri is not just a festival; it is a tribute to Shitla Mata, with deep historical roots. Legend has it that thousands of years ago, during excavations in the ancient city of Mohen Jo Daro, a statue of Shitla Devi was discovered. Since then, this day has been dedicated to her, reflecting the enduring significance of cultural heritage in the region.
As the Thadri festivities conclude, the community will transition to another celebrated event, Kanhooro, which marks the Birth Anniversary of Bhagwan Shri Krishna. Dr. Raja Shad, a prominent Hindu figure from Tharparkar, shared insights into this seamless transition, noting that after Thadri, families will create clay sculptures of Lord Krishna, culminating in a ceremonial visarjan, or immersion, in water.
In a rapidly changing digital world, the continued celebration of such festivals speaks volumes about the community’s respect and love for their cultural and religious practices. As they gather to honor Thadri, they not only celebrate their past but also ensure that these rich traditions endure for future generations, reflecting a deep-seated desire to preserve their unique heritage.
For more updates and detailed coverage of the Hindu and Sindhi communities in Sindh, Pakistan, stay tuned to Sindh Renaissance.
