Chapter 7: Festivals and Fairs – Celebrating Life and Nature in Himachal Pradesh
7.0: Introduction Festivals and fairs are the soul of Himachal Pradesh, blending faith, folklore, and celebration. These vibrant gatherings reflect the deep bond between the people, their gods, and nature. Whether high in the snow-capped mountains or nestled in lush green valleys, each region of Himachal celebrates life with color, music, dance, and devotion. 7.1 Festivals as Cultural Rhythms The festivals of Himachal are not just events; they are seasonal markers that celebrate the cycles of nature, agricultural abundance, and mythological beliefs . Rooted in both Hindu and Buddhist traditions , they also incorporate tribal and local deity worship, making the cultural fabric of the state remarkably rich and diverse. 7.2 Major Festivals of the State 1. Kullu Dussehra Celebrated a week after traditional Dussehra in the Kullu Valley. Over 200 village deities arrive in decorated palanquins. The idol of Lord Raghunath (presiding deity) is taken in a grand procession. The ...