Kailashahar, Jan 13: Bilaspur village of Kailashahar hosts a rare tradition of Dhanya Purnima, a ritual observed by Hindus during the full moon of the Bengali month of Poush. 

Despite the decline of such customs across rural Bengal, the family of retired headmaster Ramkrishna Das continues to uphold this age-old practice.

On Dhanya Purnima, a banana plant is ceremonially washed, decorated and placed in a cow dung-smeared courtyard. 

The evening begins with rituals led by a priest, followed by the recitation of the Bratakatha by the family matriarch. 

The story narrates the misfortunes of a Brahmin who forgot to observe the ritual and how he overcame adversity through divine guidance.

Family members, neighbors and relatives gather to listen to the Bratakatha, participate in the ritual and share the prasadam. 

According to Ramkrishna Das, this tradition has been passed down through generations, and the younger family members actively participate to preserve it.

According to locals the ritual symbolizes prayers for universal well-being, happiness and prosperity.