A Century-Old Football Ritual with an 80-Kg 'Dada' Unfolds in Rajasthan
On Makar Sankranti Wednesday, people from twelve villages surrounding Aawa town in Tonk district will gather at Garh Chowk. They will participate in a unique football game that dates back over a hundred years to the princely era. The game involves an extraordinary object called a "dada." This is not an ordinary ball. It is a volleyball-shaped mass wrapped tightly in jute ropes and soaked in water, weighing a hefty 80 kilograms.
The Ritual and Its Prophetic Significance
This annual game is more than just sport. It holds deep cultural and prophetic meaning for the local community. According to long-standing belief, the direction in which the heavy dada falls at the end of the play predicts the fortune of the coming year. If the dada falls towards the Aawa Akhaniyan gate, it is seen as an omen of famine for the state. A fall towards the Dooni gate signals prosperity. Should the dada remain within Garh Chowk, it indicates a year of normal rainfall—neither famine nor exceptional prosperity.
Meticulous Preparations by the Princely Family
The preparation for this event is a careful process handled by the erstwhile princely family of Aawa. Three to four days before Makar Sankranti, family members construct the massive 80-kg dada. They then soak it in water for three full days to add to its weight and character. On the morning of Makar Sankranti, the soaked dada is taken out, ready for the day's events.
Aawa Sarpanch Divyansh M Bhardwaj explains the organization. The game continues to be orchestrated by the descendants of the Aawa princely family. The local Aawa panchayat provides full support in all preparatory activities, ensuring the tradition is upheld with proper respect and resources.
The Energetic Gameplay and Community Participation
The action kicks off precisely at 12 noon. Members of the princely family bring the heavy dada to Garh Chowk, also known as Gopal Chowk, and initiate the game with the first kick. At this moment, around 5,000 people, who have been eagerly waiting in the town square, surge forward. They pounce on the dada and begin kicking it vigorously, much like a football, causing it to move in various directions across the chowk.
The game continues energetically from 12 PM until 3 PM. The crowd is large, boisterous, and fully immersed in the festive spirit. The excitement is so intense that local authorities deploy a heavy police presence to maintain order and ensure safety during the event.
A Living Tradition That Unites the Community
This age-old belief and ritual bring immense festivity to Aawa town every Makar Sankranti. It is a powerful tradition that unites the residents of twelve villages, fostering community spirit and cultural continuity. The game is not just a prediction tool but a vibrant celebration that connects the present generation with their historical roots.
The enduring practice highlights how traditional customs can thrive in modern times, supported by both familial heritage and local governance. It stands as a testament to Rajasthan's rich cultural tapestry and the community's dedication to preserving its unique heritage.
