Mesram clan forebodes rains aplenty, job scarcity

KESLAPUR (ADILABAD): The Mesram clan of Adivasis traditionally give out annual ‘predictions’ which holds meaning not just for their clan but the entire state. They base their projections on traditional knowledge and a strong belief in rituals and custom. One very significant parameter is the ‘ant-hill’, which the Adivasis call ‘Varuli’. This year, the Adivasis expect the state to have good rains, good crops and good health, but not such a good time for employment opportunities and jobs. 

The Mesram clan predicts future occurrences on the basis of changes in height that took place in the ant-hill they built last year at Keslapur-Nagoba temple in Indravelli mandal in Adilabad district. The traditional priest (Katoda) of the Mesram clan of Nagoba temple Mesram Koserao said they have observed the status of the ant-hill made by the Mesram clan women last year and found that there was no change in its height. That was indication of a good cropping season and good health.

“There is a strong belief among Adivasis that good things take place if the height of the ant-hill doesn’t change or collapse or get ruined by rains,” said Mr Koserao.

He said changes in the ant-hill size are attributed to the supernatural powers of the serpent god Nagoba. Mesram clan women make the ant-hill at a sacred place behind the Nagoba temple on the day of Maha Puja.