Santhal tribal Christians reconverted to Hinduism

Baripada, Mar 28 (UNI) At least 13 santhal tribal Christians of Udgarsahi under Jamudhia gram panchayat in Kaptipada block of Mayurbhanj district were reconverted to Hinduism at a function organised by the Viswa Hindu Parishada (VHP) yesterday last.

Significantly, the recoversion ceremony coincided with Ram Navami celebrated in the district with great enthusiasm. The reconverted santhals, included six adult males, three adult females and four children, VHP sources said.

They belonged to two families of Bhurunga Soren and Lodo Hansda.

Both Soren and Hansda said that they had embraced Christianity about ten years ago in 1997 when they were lured of some sops assured by a preacher.

The reconversion ceremony was highlighted with a yagna ritual at a 'Jaheera-peetha'(place of worship of Santhal Tribals) in the vicinity of the village. VHP Keonjhar unit secretary Harihara Tripathy conducted the reconversion ceremony.

VHP Mayurbhanj district unit President Ranjan Mishra and Karan Marandi, a 'Dehuri' (tribal priest) of the Jaheera Peetha were also present at the ceremony.

UNI