Changing Trends of Traditional Knowledge System in Bathouism: A Descriptive Study

Abstract

The Bathou is the traditional religion of the Bodos. The Bathou Bwrai, or Bwrai Bathou, is the supreme god and eighteen pairs of minor gods and goddesses are also worshipped. The Bodos have been practiced this age-old religion since earliest time with various cults and rituals. Bathou is considered one of the significant religions in North-East India and neighboring country like Nepal, Bhutan and Bangladesh. This religion plays a significant role in the socio-cultural life of the Bodos. In ancient times, religious cults and rituals were almost similar and today, regional, social and political issues create differences among cults and rituals in Bathou religion. Currently, these trends of the traditional knowledge system of Bathouism are changing due to the impact of modern education and globalization. This paper explores the effects of globalization on the traditional knowledge systems of Bathouism, including its practices, cults, and rituals.