Singbonga is a deity worshipped primarily by the tribal communities in the Indian state of

Jharkhand Jharkhand (; ) is a States and union territories of India, state in East India, eastern India. The state shares its border with the states of West Bengal to the east, Chhattisgarh to the west, Uttar Pradesh to the northwest, Bihar to the north ...

and the neighboring regions of

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, and

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. Revered as the supreme god by the Ho, Munda, Bhumij, and Santhal tribes, Singbonga represents the sun god and is associated with light, life, and fertility. His worship is an integral part of the tribal religious practices and rituals, often celebrated with grandeur and devotion. In some tribal communities, a sacred tree or a stone may serve as his symbol, marking places of worship or ritual importance.

Etymology

The name Singbonga is derived from two words: ''Sing'' meaning "sun" and ''Bonga'' meaning "god" or "deity" in the

Munda languages The Munda languages are a group of closely related languages spoken by about eleven million people in India, Bangladesh and Nepal. Historically, they have been called the Kolarian languages. They constitute a branch of the Austroasiatic langu ...

. The term symbolizes the Sun God, regarded as a life-giving force that controls various aspects of nature, agriculture, and wellbeing.

Description

Singbonga is believed to be the creator of the

universe The universe is all of space and time and their contents. It comprises all of existence, any fundamental interaction, physical process and physical constant, and therefore all forms of matter and energy, and the structures they form, from s ...

and is seen as a powerful force that governs both the natural and spiritual worlds. According to tribal mythology, Singbonga created the world and all its inhabitants. He is often depicted as a benevolent and just god who sustains the balance of nature. The sun, being a vital aspect of life, is his earthly manifestation. As a protector of crops, animals, and people, Singbonga is called upon for blessings of good harvests, health, and prosperity.

References

{{reflist Santhal Indian deities Sacred groves