Bikaner's 500-Year-Old 'Thamb Pujan' Tradition: Protecting the City from Demonic Forces

• Bikaner's Holi celebrations formally begin with the ancient 'Thamb Pujan' tradition, a 500-year-old ritual.
• This worship is performed during Holashtak to counter negative energies and protect the city from demonic forces.
• The 'Thamb' is a 10-12 foot wooden pillar, believed to house deities like Kshetrapal Bhairu, Lord Ganesh, Shri Hari Vishnu, and Lord Narsingh.
• Pujan takes place at five historical locations: Maru Nayak Chowk, Ojhaon Ka Chowk, Kikani Vyason Ka Chowk, Lalani Vyason Ka Chowk, and Sunaron Ka Mohalla.
• The tradition fosters social unity and brotherhood, with Vedic chants marking the start of Holi festivities and Faag songs.