Himachal Pradesh is a unique land in itself. Pristine views, God fearing people and unique traditions in every part of the state make it a divine land. However, there are some unique customs of Himachal Pradesh that make it a special state, different and distinct from others. Let us understand these customs of Himachal Pradesh and develop a better perspective of the state and its people.
Budhi Diwali
This unique festival is celebrated in the Nirmand region of District Kullu and the Chopal region of District Shimla in the state. It is said that as these areas were remotely located, the news of Lord Rama returning from exile reached them a month late. Thus, Diwali is known as Budhi Diwali in these areas.
The celebrations include sacrifice of animals and gathering of people from the village at a bonfire where they exchange sweets and dance together. The occasion is indeed festive and you have to see it with your eyes to relive this magical moment, once and forever.
Pathron ka Mela
This is indeed “Pathron ka mela” as the villagers gather around a hill and throw stones at each other. This unique festival is celebrated in Dhami, some 20 Km from Shimla. The mela has its origin in the 18th century when young people from Halog and Jamog, two villages in the old capital of erstwhile Dhami gathered and threw stones at each other.
When someone gets injured in this mela, it is considered to be auspicious and the blood is offered as a Tilak to the Goddess Kali who blesses the people.
Bhunda Festival
This festival is celebrated after a period of 12 years in the Nirmand region of Kullu and some parts of the Shimla District. Bhunda occupies a place of prominence in the customs of Himachal Pradesh and a man from the Beda tribe slides down a gorge on a rope that is made out of the grass.
The slide begins after some pooja is performed by the priests and the wife of the person sliding down is mentally prepared to be a widow in case, the person falls off. However, if the person survives, he is taken in a procession to the temple and is worshipped like God.
Atta- Satta Ka Nata
In this custom, a series of marriages are arranged. In these marriages, a father gives the hand of her daughter to the son of another person. The other person has to marry her daughter to the son of another person. The third person then promises to marry her daughter to the son of the first person. Confusing, as it is, the age-old culture has preserved the traditions as people otherwise used to marry their children in other districts and states which diminished their culture to an extent. This betrothal system is followed in remote regions of Himachal Pradesh.
Unique as these customs might sound; Himachal Pradesh has many such interesting rituals that are hidden from the modern world. Come to Himachal, explore its unique traditions and mesmerize yourself with its pristine views and unique cultural ambiance.
