The northern Indian state of Uttarakhand is home to a number of festivals that have their roots in the region’s traditional customs and beliefs. These celebrations contribute significantly to preserving the social structure of the surrounding communities in addition to showcasing the state’s rich cultural diversity. The following are Festivals of Uttarakhand. These celebrations highlight the special fusion of ancient and indigenous customs that enhance Uttarakhand, while also honoring the yearly cycles of the moon and religious holidays.
1. Kumbh Mela:
One of the biggest religious gatherings in the world, Kumbh Mela is held in Haridwar once every twelve years. In the belief that a sacred dip in the Ganga River would wash away their sins and aid in salvation, millions of devotees and pilgrims travel there each year.
2. Ganga Dussehra:
Ganga Dussehra, which is mostly observed in Haridwar, commemorates the Ganga’s fall from heaven to earth. During the month of Jyeshtha, which falls between May and June, devotees participate in religious rites and take holy dips in the Ganges.
3. Makar Sankranti or Ghugutia:
Makar Sankranti, or Ghughutia as it is called locally, is celebrated in January. Children wear necklaces made from candies called “Ghughute” and give them to crows as part of a unique ritual that makes this celebration well-known.
4. Phool Dei:
Phool Dei, which is observed in March, is all about kids decorating houses with flowers and getting blessings and candy in exchange. Little girls, especially young ones, go door-to-door in their communities and villages on Phool Dei, spreading fresh flowers and greenery—symbols of wealth and good fortune. In essence, it’s a harvest festival celebration to welcome spring season.
5. Basant Panchami:
Saraswati, the goddess of learning and the arts, is the focus of this celebration. It normally takes place in February, and to welcome the arrival of spring, yellow clothing and specific prayers are worn.
6. Hilljatra:
This celebration, unique to the Pithoragarh district, features a lot of music, dance, and traditional theater and is inspired by Nepalese culture. It is mostly connected to the region’s agricultural pursuits. In addition to being a festival, Hilljatra provides a way for the community to show its values, beliefs, and agricultural customs.
7. Harela and Bhitauli:
Harela is a festival signifying the onset of the monsoon and the sowing season during Shravan (July). Bhitauli is its counterpart, celebrated during the harvest time. Families exchange gifts and seeds, and people make clay idols for prosperity.
8. Uttarayani Mela:
Held annually on Makar Sankranti in several regions of Uttarakhand, such as Hanseswari, Bageshwar, and Ranibagh, the festival is a significant occasion for the local people and includes a sizable fair.
9. Nanda Devi Raj Jat:
This three-week celebration, one of the most significant religious events in Uttarakhand, takes place once every twelve years. It involves a pilgrimage in honor of Goddess Nanda Devi that passes through numerous villages and culminates at the Homkund close to the Nanda Devi summit.
10. Ghee Sankranti:
This event, which is held on the first day of the Hindu month of Bhadra (August), is an expression of gratitude to Mother Nature for her abundant harvest. Produce is given as gifts amongst farmers, and agricultural implements are revered.
