Tradition of nature and deity worship during Diwali in Devgadhbariā

In various villages of Devgadhbariā taluka in Dahod district, a special tradition of worshipping nature and deities is observed on the occasion of the Diwali festival. According to a report by Sandesh, people of all castes and communities in this area worship the village deity and Mataji on this holy day.

On the day of Diwali, early in the morning, people from every hamlet (faliya) of the village set out with coconuts, kumkum, rice, and flower garlands. They carry water in clean lotas and prepare offerings in copper, brass, or bronze plates to go for the worship of the village deity and Savan Mataji. Through this worship ritual, prayers are offered for happiness, prosperity, brotherhood, and abundance in agriculture in the village.

This tradition has been continuing for years, although no specific information is available regarding how many years this worship has been performed. Contributions are taken from every household to cover the expenses incurred in this religious ritual. There is an old custom of worshipping the deity and Mataji with such devotion in Devgadhbariā taluka.