People and Places: Mysterious Pan of Bono Manso
Located in the Nkoranza-North District of the Bono East Region, specifically on the Techiman-Kintampo road, lies the historic community of Bono Manso, a former slave trade landmark.
This small farming community is home to a mysterious and revered artefact known as the "Ayadasuo" or magic pan.
This pan, accompanied by a strange chain and other metals, is said to have fallen from the sky in the 13th Century.
According to local tradition, the pan descended from the sky on a Friday, a day considered sacred in Akan culture.
This remarkable event is reminiscent of the legendary Golden Stool (Sika Dwa Kofi), a symbol of the Ashanti kingdom's unity and power.
The pan's arrival has been etched in the community's collective memory, with many believing it to be a divine gift.
The pan features intricate inscriptions believed to be in Greek.
Yet, despite numerous attempts, no one has been able to decipher their meaning.
This has sparked widespread curiosity, with many wondering about the pan's origins and purpose.
The Ayadasuo is said to contain water with extraordinary healing properties, used to save lives in the community.
It is said that the water is used to heal the sick, particularly children, and protect the community from calamities.
It is also believed to have the power to summon rain during times of drought, with a unique ritual involving 14 virgins (seven boys and seven girls) fetching water from a specific river to fill the pan.
The ritual, which involves placing eggs in the pan before filling it with water, is said to trigger rainfall in the area.
As the pan overflows, rain begins to fall, ensuring a successful harvest.
Community members, including prominent personalities, have developed a strong faith in the pan, using the water for various purposes, including bathing and washing their faces to receive blessings and miracles.
The Ayadasuo has been a part of Bono Manso's history for centuries, with the Dwomo Family in the community claiming ownership.
Despite being stolen a couple of times, the items mysteriously returned to their original location, further solidifying their significance and reverence in the community.
The mysterious pan of Bono Manso remains a major attraction to the community.
As a symbol of protection and miracles, it holds a special place in the hearts of the community, serving as a reminder of the mysterious and often inexplicable forces that shape our lives.
