Bobobibir Pala

Domain:Performing arts

State: West Bengal

Description:

In southern Bengal, men of the villages set out for jungle before the arrival of monsoon. If they manage to return from jungle, it is believed that it has happened by the grace and generosity of 'Maa Bonobibi'. Hence, in 'Maghi Poornima' or the full moon night of the Bengali calendar month Magh (January-February) the entire village workships Goddess Bonobibi. Popular among the Moule, Bede, Kathuria and Jele communities, the villagers cook and eat together in front of her makeshift temple (Thaan), recall the benevolence of Goddess Bonobibi and perform the original unedited play or 'Pala' named 'Bonobibir Johuranama' for the entire night. That is the traditional way to present Bonobibir Pala. Nowadays, however, many troupes have formed who perform the Pala to entertain the tourists. Naturally, they have had to edit and redesign the original overnight long folk play to a redefined presentation of maximum one hour.