Cooch Behar, Oct. 25 -- In a remarkable example of communal harmony, a Muslim family has been preserving the centuries-old tradition of crafting the iconic Rass Chakra for Cooch Behar's Madan Mohan Rass festival for generations.
Aminur Hossain, a fourth-generation member of the family, has been making the Rass Chakra by hand for the past four years, following in the footsteps of his father, Altaf Mia. The responsibility was originally undertaken by his ancestor, Pan Mohammad Mia.
Aminur has begun this year's work at his home in Harinchowara, on the banks of the Torsa River. The 34-foot-long, eight-sided structure is being crafted using bamboo, paper, glue and thread. Following tradition, the work begins on the occasion of Lakshmi Puja, with Aminur observing customary dietary practices. The process will continue for around a month.
According to the Debottar Trust Board, the Rass Chakra symbolises religious harmony and a longstanding cultural legacy. The annual Rass festival at Madan Mohan Thakurbari will begin on November 24. At 9 pm, the president of the Debottar Trust Board and the Cooch Behar District Magistrate will inaugurate the festival by rotating the Rass Chakra.
"The responsibility of making the Rass Chakra is a matter of great importance to me. I am trying to preserve my ancestors' legacy and fulfil this duty with dedication," Aminur said.
Historical accounts trace the festival's origins to the reign of Maharaja Harendranarayan, when it was celebrated at Bhetaguri more than 200 years ago. After being held at several locations, including Dhaluabari, the festival moved to the present Madan Mohan Thakurbari.
Through generations of dedication, Aminur's family continues to preserve a unique tradition.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.