Jamai Sasthi: A Bengali Festival

Pulse

oi-Amrisha

By Amrisha Sharma

Monday, May 21, 2012, 15:57

Jamai Sasthi is a Bengali festival dedicated to the son in laws. Jamai (son-in-law) Sasthi is on 27th.May, 2012. An awesome treat awaits the son-in-law on this day from the house of his in-laws. What is the festival all about? Find out several customs that are related to this Bengali festival.

Legend of Sasthi

It is said that many years ago there lived a very greedy woman in a village. She used to eat away everything in the house and blame it on the cat. The cat went and complained Goddess Sasthi of the injustice. As a punishment, Goddess Sasthi snatched all her sons and daughter. But, later on the Goddess took pity on her. The poor woman got her children back upon worshiping the Goddess and since the ritual of this Bengali festival follows. Slowly with time it took the present form.

Significance

This Bengali festival is the day of the son-in-law. All family members and relatives gather around him and a jovial atmosphere is created in the house. The air of festivity creates a tenderness in all the relationships.

Celebrations

Jamai Sasthi is one of the most awaited festival among Bengalis. Lavish arrangements are made and the occasion is celebrated with great pomp. A feast is prepared in the in-laws house. The staple Bengali food fish, sweets and other delicacies are featured in a variety. Upon the arrival of son-in-law, fruits, dhan (paddy) and dubbo (grass) are given to the son-in-law. A phota (drop) of curd is applied on his forehead and a yellow thread is tied to his wrist. There is also an exchange of gifts between the son-in-law and his mother-in-law.

Festivals are just a social occasion for a family gathering. They are an event of sharing happiness with your family members and relatives. Jamai Sasthi is one such Bengali festival that increases the bond of the son with his in-laws.