Tusu Parab: Bare Hands in Boiling Ghee for 'Pithe' at Muruguma Reservoir Fair

• The Tusu Mela is an annual fair held at Muruguma Reservoir in Purulia, West Bengal, on the second day of Magh.
• A unique tradition involves preparing 'pithe' (rice cakes) by dipping bare hands into vigorously boiling ghee as an offering to the village deity, Bhaan Singh Thakur.
• The fair also features Tusu competitions where women from surrounding villages perform Tusu dance and songs with 'Chowdol'.
• Muruguma Reservoir, a significant tourist spot, was built around 1955 due to the agitation of local activists.
• The event draws large crowds, including tourists, who come to witness the traditions and enjoy the festivities.

Why It Matters: Tusu Parab in Purulia features a unique tradition of making 'pithe' with bare hands in boiling ghee.