Pabuji Ki Phad — The Epic of the Rajasthani Deity

legend · India · South Asian

Pabuji is a legendary folk deity from Rajasthan worshipped by the Rabari (shepherd) community. The epic poem Pabuji Ki Phad, performed with a painted scroll, tells of Pabuji's life as a 14th-century Rathore prince who became a folk hero. After marrying the princess of Umarkot, Pabuji's camel was stolen by demons. In tracking it down, he performed many heroic feats. His most famous story involves the demoness Jindrav Khinchi, who challenged his power. Pabuji defeated her and made her vow to protect Rabari cattle. Eventually, Pabuji was betrayed and killed in battle, but he was deified and his s

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