Extraordinary Bengalis, Amazing festivals

Experiences of Jamai Shashthi festival, History and its Rituals

One of the most culturally prosperous states of India, West Bengal is filled with many surprises. Out of which Food and Celebration are the too much loved favorites of a Bengali. West Bengal sees an array of festivals and One such festival is Jamai Shashthi (Aranya Shashthi) which depicts the beautiful relationship of a son-in-law with his in-laws. The name Jamai means son-in-law and Shashthi means the sixth day of shukla paksh (and if you are still wondering, then Paksha refers to a fortnight or a lunar phase in a month according to the Hindu calendar).

Quick FACT: Bengali's celebrate Six Shashthi’s, Neel Shashthi, Ashok Shashthi, Chapra Shashthi, Jamai Shashthi, Sheetala Shashthi and Durga Shashthi.

Jamai Shashthi is the day dedicated only to sons-in-law which is celebrated overwhelmingly in West Bengal to lay the foundation of a strong family bond and relationship. On this auspicious day, all Bengali mothers-in-law prepare a feast for their sons-in-law which traditionally includes an important dish Hilsa fish and Rosogullas. 

Sons-in-law welcomed traditionally with a phota of curd on his forehead and tie a yellow thread on their right wrist. The thread is called Shashthi Suto, which coloured in yellow with the help of turmeric and comprises blessings from Ma Shashthi who takes care of her children. Son-in-laws are the centre of attention on this day and he thoroughly enjoys the special treatment he receives from his in-laws.

On the menu: A buffet with dishes such as Bhaja Murgir Sheekh Kebab, Dimer Devil, Dhokar Dalna, Narkel Potol Posto, Goalondo Mutton Curry, Basanti Pulao, Keema Boti Pulao.

Origin of Jamai Shashthi

Jamai Shashthi is an ancient custom practiced since ages by the Bengalis. According to a legend, Goddess Shashthi has once returned the lost sons to a daughter of a greedy woman. The greedy woman used to eat away all the food and would blame it on the cat. The cat being the apprentice of mother Shashthi  complained who in return punished the woman. Being punished, she later repented and performed rituals before the goddess.

It is said that the goddess Shashthi, satisfied with her prayers, returned all her children. Since then all women worship the Goddess Shashthi for the wellbeing of their children and to protect them from all.

Who is Shashthi Devi? Shashthi or Shashti (Sanskrit: षष्ठी, Ṣaṣṭhī, literally "sixth") is a Hindu folk goddess, venerated as the benefactor and protector of children. She is the wife of lord kartikeya, commonly referred as devsena. She finds mention in the prakriti khanda of Brahma Vaivarta Purana and ninth canto of Devī Bhāgavatapurāṇa. It is also stated that from 6th part of prakriti, this goddess was born.Usually mothers perform this pujo for the welfare of the child. In many cases this pujo is also performed in the hope of having children. The shashthi pujo is usually performed by women.

Twist in the tale

 

The question may arise like what is the purpose of Jamai Sasthi. What is the reason for celebrating the Jamai Shashthi? What is the relationship between mother-in-law and son-in-law?

In India (ancient culture) after the marriage of a daughter, her parents could not go to her daughter's house until she gave birth to a child. As a result, if the girl could not conceive or obstruct the delivery, the parents would spend a long time to see their daughter’s face. Then another culture overtook which forbids parents of the bride to eat anything at the house of his daughter for one year. To ease this rule, the sixth day of Shukla in the month of Jaistha was chosen as Jamai Sasthi.  Both Mother and her daughter maintain fast and worship Sasthi Devi. 

Still amazed going forward

Every festival has its own manifestation and for every Jamai (son-in-law) on this day awaits fresh surprises and present opportunities for bonding with family members. As Jamai being the centre of attraction, the whole ritual also underlines the common theme of all Bengali rituals and celebrations – a grand meal. 

"Jamai sasthi bhari moja

khabo je bhai khasta goja,

Ilish macha ar potol bhaja

jombe asor khubi khasa.

Subho Subho Jamai Sasthi "