Garo cultural troupe today demonstrated A’ Galmaka (The jhum burning ceremony) here on day 9 of Hornbill Festival at Kisama.
A’ Galmaka or A’ Galdoa is the jhum burning ceremony of the new field and the first of the important rituals in connection with jhum cultivation.
Here, a cock and rice beer are offered to invoke the blessing of Tonggitchat- Gitok- warika the mother of the fire, to free the land from any profanation, pollution and desecration through the fire.
Then, millet seeds are scattered in all directions for good harvest. After the sowing of the seeds everyone returns to the village.
The elders circulate from house to house in the day time and the young visit the same house all night.
Time is generally spent in feasting, dancing, singing and merry –making.
(Morung Express News)
