Holi festival in Rajasthan is known for its colours, enthusiasm and traditions. But, a unique program celebrated after Holi in Bhilwara has become a topic of discussion in the entire country. Here, a living youth is formally cremated, shrouded, and prepared for the last rites. However, this is not a mourning, but a special religious and cultural tradition, which thousands of people gather to witness.
It is said that this tradition in Bhilwara city is about 400 years old. This is known as Ilaaji ka Dola or dead body carriage. This event takes place seven days after the main Holi, i.e. on Sheetala Saptami. According to local beliefs, this tradition symbolizes the departure of evil, negativity and past sorrows and the arrival of new energy and a positive beginning.
How is this unique ritual performed?
As per tradition, a living youth is chosen from Chittor Haveli. He is laid on the bier and shrouded. After this, his funeral procession is taken out throughout the city, accompanied by music and drums. The boy lies quietly on the bier during the entire journey. People throw gulal (coloured powder) and join the procession while dancing and singing. This is not an atmosphere of mourning, but of celebration. When the procession reaches its final destination, preparations are made for the funeral.
the boy suddenly gets up and runs away
The most exciting moment of this tradition occurs when, just before the cremation at the cremation ground, the boy lying on the bier suddenly gets up and runs into the crowd. Then an effigy of straw is placed on the bier in its place and the last rites are performed. People come from far and wide to see it.
What is the message of this tradition?
In Bhilwara, the funeral procession is not just a religious ritual but also conveys a deep message: an end to evil and negative thinking, saying goodbye to old hurts and pains and welcoming new energy and new beginnings. On Shitala Saptami, there is a festive atmosphere in Bhilwara. Not only the local people, but also devotees and tourists from other districts and states come to witness this unique tradition. This unique tradition of Holi in Bhilwara shows that there is a deep meaning behind every ritual in Indian culture. Even today, Ilaji Ka Dola conveys the message that after every end there is a new beginning.