Superstition in the Oraon Society

The Oraons believe in supernatural beings. They have superstitious practices in the form of the witchcraft, evil eye, evil spirit, exorcizing rituals by spirit doctors (Dhami), mantras, etc. They also believe in omens, wearing of amulets and auspicious or inauspicious days. Poor widowed women are sometimes tormented cruelly blaming them of witchcraft. Although the Oraon’s views are changing against the superstitious practices, still a large number of Oraons look up to Dhamis or Ojhas for their physical healing. So an attempt has been made to describe the superstitions prevalent in the Oraon society of Nepal.

Keywords:
Danda Katta, Dharmes, Nad, Nepal, Spirit doctor, Superstition, Witchcraft