RAS question
Gogaji, a folk deity of Rajasthan, is especially worshipped for protection against:
Correct answer: (A) Snake bites.
Gogaji, also known as Goga Peer, is especially worshipped in Rajasthan for protection against snake bites.
Explanation
Gogaji is remembered in Rajasthan as a local deity whose worship is closely tied to protection from snakes. The Devasthan Department's temple profile for Mandir Shri Goga Ji at Gogamedi, in Nohar tehsil of Hanumangarh district, says devotees invoke Gogaji's name when someone is bitten by a poisonous snake and describes him as capable of removing snake venom. Snake-bite protection, rather than general fear or misfortune, is the key association in Gogaji worship. Gogaji also commands respect among both Hindus and Muslims, matching the wider tradition of Goga Peer worship. The annual Gogamedi fair and the shrine's importance reinforce why this association is a standard Rajasthan folk-deity fact for RAS.
Why the other options are wrong
- (B) Evil spirits are too broad; Gogaji is associated specifically with poisonous snake bites and removal of snake venom.
- (C) Drought protection is not associated with Gogaji; his worship centres on snake-bite protection.
- (D) Cattle disease does not fit Gogaji's association with snake-bite protection; cattle protection is linked more closely with other folk deities such as Tejaji and Pabuji.
Concept
Rajasthan's folk-deity tradition includes distinct protective functions associated with local deities. Folk religion, fairs and regional cults are core parts of Rajasthan History, Art and Culture in RAS preparation.