Ramrekha Dham and Tulsi Chaura: Heritage of the Kharia Tribe

Introduction

Ramrekha Dham, located nearly sixteen miles north-west of Simdega in Jharkhand, stands as the most revered pilgrimage centre of the Kharia tribe. This sacred site is deeply intertwined with the epic narrative of the Ramayana. According to local legend, Lord Rama, accompanied by his consort Sita and brother Lakshmana, spent part of their fourteen years of exile here. Their footprints are believed to be preserved at the site, while a cave on the hill is associated with their sojourn. The shrine enshrines idols of Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, Krishna, Radha, Jagannath, and a Shivalinga. A water-pit named Ramganga, said to have been excavated by Rama with his arrow, adds to the sanctity of the place.

Mahabiri Jhanda

Among the Kharias, the Mahabiri Jhanda serves as a sacred symbol of devotion. It is planted in community spaces and worshipped during Ramnavami, celebrated in the month of Chait Nawami. This ritual reinforces the tribe’s spiritual connection with Lord Rama and their cultural identity.

Tulsi Chaura

The Kharias also Revere the Tulsi Chaura, a sacred courtyard altar with a basil plant. This practice, borrowed from Hindu neighbours, is followed by two groups: the Bhagats and reconverted Christian Kharias. The Bhagats follow Hindu customs, while reconverted Kharias are guided by the Mahanth of Ramrekha Dham. Devotees pour water on the Tulsi plant daily, chant the Gayatri Mantra, and light lamps in reverence. They also offer water oblations to Lord Surya, making rivers, tanks, and springs temporary sacred centres.

Devi Guri

Close association with Hindus led the Kharias to adopt Devi Guri, shrines dedicated to Mother Goddess. These shrines are of two types: common shrines shared with Hindus and private shrines in the homes of Kharia Bhagats. The altar is adorned with rows of earthen lamps representing goddesses such as Lakshmi, Kali, Saraswati, and Durga. Colourful triangular flags supported by bamboo splinters add vibrancy to the worship space.

Kabirpanthi Chauka

The influence of the Kabirpanthi sect introduced new sacred centres called Chauka. These are associated with lifecycle rituals and are of five types: Sahaj, Chalawa, Janam, Ekotari, and Barsait Chauka. While Sahaj and Chalawa are worshipped by the Mahanth, the others are overseen by Dharam Gurus.

Legend of Ramrekha Dham

The sanctity of Ramrekha Dham is reinforced by folk legends. About two centuries ago, a milkman from Madhya Pradesh searching for his cow encountered five yogis bathing in the Kund. Guided by them, he found his cow and later narrated the divine experience. Subsequently, a local Baiga received a dream instructing him to worship the site. He installed a Shivalinga, and over time, the place gained recognition. Later, rulers such as Sri Narain Singh of Biru Raj family and his successors contributed to the shrine’s development, installing idols, donating land, and constructing facilities like a Yagyashala and sacred kitchen.

Festivals of Ramrekha Dham

Two major fairs are celebrated here: one during Kartik Purnima (October-November) and another during Magh Purnima (January-February). The Kartik fair commemorates Rama’s visit, while the Magh fair marks the mythical beginning of Kali Yuga. These festivals attract both tribal and non-tribal devotees, including Christian converts. Rituals include chanting of Mahamantra, devotional music, and all-night dances by Kharia villagers. Temporary sheds decorated with flowers and images of deities host musical programs and Sankirtan.

Cultural Significance

Ramrekha Dham is not just a religious site but a cultural nucleus for The Kharia Tribe. It embodies their syncretic traditions, blending tribal customs with Hindu practices. Sacred groves (Sarna), village churches of reconverted Kharias, and shrines across Jharkhand further highlight the diversity of their spiritual life. Today, Ramrekha Dham continues to thrive as a centre of devotion, community gathering, and cultural preservation, drawing pilgrims who seek blessings and fulfilment of wishes.