Sonali Bhati/Jalore: In Rajasthan, there is a tradition of worshiping a groom deity on the occasion of Holi. The statues of this deity in the guise of a groom can be seen at the intersections of many villages and cities. They are mostly worshiped by childless couples. It is believed that by worshiping this deity, unmarried people get married and childless women get children.
Actually, this deity is Iloji Maharaj who has got the place of folk deity in Rajasthani folk culture. Iloji is worshiped in the form of a groom. It is said that the tradition of celebrating Dhulendi after Holi started in memory of Iloji rubbing dust and ashes on his body. Prince Devta Iloji remained a bachelor all his life but it is believed that he gives the boon of having children and getting married.
Who is this folk deity?
According to folk tradition, this deity is Prince Iloji, who was to be married to Hiranyakashyap’s sister Holika. But on the very wedding day, Holika burnt herself while trying to burn Prahlad. Mourning the death of his future wife, Prince Iloji, who became a groom, rubbed dust and ashes on his body and remained a bachelor throughout his life.
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It is believed that most of the unmarried men and women worship Iloji Maharaj and make wishes for their marriage. It is said that Iloji Maharaj has received a boon from Lord Shankar that whatever unmarried boys, men, women and infertile women worship him, their wishes will soon be fulfilled.
Recognition as a folk deity
The folk deity Iloji is also known as Anand Bhairu, he is also known as Mast Maula and the god of molestation. From the beginning of Phalgun, songs are sung by men, which are called Phag Geet. Along with this, traders also pray to Iloji temple for increase in business.
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Tags: OMG News, Rajasthan news
FIRST PUBLISHED: March 13, 2024, 14:38 IST
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