When is Ker Puja?
Ker Puja is a regional public holiday observed in Tripura, India.
Ker Puja is a Hindu festival that takes place two weeks after Kharchi Puja and honours Ker, a guardian god.
History of Ker Puja
In the two weeks since the start of Kharchi Puja, 14 different deities have been worshipped. At the end of this process, it is time to honour Ker, the guardian deity of the Vastu Devata, Tripura’s dynasty of deities.
During Ker Puja, entrances to Agartala, the capital of Tripura, are closed to create a protected area. People are not allowed to light fires, dance, sing or even wear shoes. Anyone who break these restrictions is made to pay a fine and the puja starts again.
To try and ensure that nothing bad happens within the protected area, expectant mothers, the elderly and the sick and frail are moved to nearby villages. A loud bang on the morning of Ker Puja indicates the start of the ceremonial part of the festival during which time, people are discouraged from shouting or crying.
Banks and all government institutions will be closed on this day.
Did you know?
Tripura is the third smallest state in India by area.
