The Hindi-speaking Rajputs who migrated from the North generations ago have made Karnataka their home and adopted many elements of Kannada culture. The Rajput Sabha in Vasanth Nagar is preparing for Dasara, with the community’s women’s wing playing a pivotal role in organising the festivities.Festivals like Dasara involve numerous small tasks- from creating rangolis to handling countless small arrangements- which these women have managed beautifully during the last 36 years. Asha Chavan, a retired professor of Hindi from National College, who was already in festive mode, wearing poshak and a besar when we met her two days ago, said that Rajput women are always active in various preparations. “Be it shopping for sarees for Kumkumarchana, handling finances, or procuring herbs for homa, we are constantly planning and executing things.” On Sept 29, Kumkumarchana will be performed, with approximately 400 sumangalis gathering at Rajput Sabha to be offered saris and a feast.On Ashtami day, the Goddess is believed to be fiery. Durga Kumari, retired principal of a pre-university college, explained, “We perform chandi homa to restore her peaceful demeanour, wherein some specific herbs are put into the homa. This is a Rajput tradition. Likewise, kanya puja and suhasini puja are performed to please the Goddess.”Ajit Singh, president of Rajput Sabha, highlighted the leadership of women in the preparations: “They take the lead, meticulously planning events, venturing into streets, bargaining on behalf of others, and procuring necessary items.”The women seem at ease organising the festival. “Rajput women are known for their regal spirit, royal heart, and warrior soul. Historically and currently also, Rajput women hold high positions in society and are involved in administration, education and governance, which in turn help them perform all these duties effortlessly,’’ says Shobha R Singh, executive committee member.VOICE BOXWomen make things happen, while we, the men, remain more in the background.
Ajit Singh
As president, I see my role as encouraging and supporting them-both emotionally and financially- so their efforts continue to shine.Ajit Singh, PRESIDENT, RAJPUT SABHAIdols of Goddess Durga, along with those of Lakshmi, Saraswati, Sree Ganesh and Subramanya will be installed in the Sabha premises on Sept 29.
Shobha Singh
Everyone is invited for darshan. Not just Rajputs. And visarjan is in Ulsoor lake on Oct 2.Shobha R Singh, EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBERDasara teaches us the value of truth, righteousness, courage and perseverance and motivates us to fight against inner and outer evil energies.
Nagarathna Bai
It reminds us that with determination, even the greatest of obstacles can be defeated. All Rajputs are brave soldiers by birth.Nagarathna Bai, EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER
