Odisha Village Barricades Itself to Appease Angry Deity
Bhubaneswar: In a striking example of fear arising from superstition, residents of Gadabaguda village under Narayanpatna block in Odisha’s Koraput district have barricaded themselves from the outside world to appease their local deity, who they believe is angry and responsible for a series of untimely deaths.
Bamboo fences were erected at the entrance points to the village, and a handwritten notice warned outsiders not to enter and locals not to leave the area. The message read, “If anyone goes out or enters, the goddess will get angry.”
According to villagers, nearly 10 men lost their lives last year due to accidents, falls and snake bites. Believing that these deaths were due to divine displeasure, the villagers began an eight-day isolation ritual to calm their goddess.
Each household contributed to the ritual expenses through daily prayers held by the village pond with traditional drums, flowers, lamps and offerings.
“We blocked the entrances and exits because young people in our village died mysteriously. We believe our goddess is sad,” said a villager. Another is that of a local sorcerer and pujari He was called to offer special prayers to ensure peace.
Upon receiving reports of the self-imposed quarantine, local administrative officials rushed to the village and persuaded the residents to remove the barricades and return to normal life.
The incident highlights the persistent impact of superstitions and traditional beliefs in tribal and rural parts of Odisha, despite ongoing government campaigns promoting scientific awareness and health literacy.
