The world famous Kumbh Mela/Ardh Kumbh Mela is held at
Hardwar every twelfth/sixth year interval. Other prominent fairs/festivals
are Devidhura Mela (Champawat), Purnagiri Mela (Champawat), Nanda Devi
Mela (Almora), Gauchar Mela (Chamoli), Baisakhi (Uttarakashi), Maga Mela (Uttarkashi),
Uttaraini Mela (Bageshwar), Vishu Mela (Jaunsar Vavar), Peerane-Kaliyar (Roorkee),
and Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra held every twelfth year.
Harela
The folk festival 'Harela' symbolises the cultural
soul of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand and reflects the state's deep-rooted
connection with nature. The festival is celebrated by all in unique and
special ways.
Harela, marks the beginning of the monsoon month of
Sawan, and is traditionally celebrated in Uttarakhand as a symbol of
greenery and renewal. The festival is associated with sowing and
plantation, and is observed with special fervour in the state.
It
is also believed that Lord Shiva resides in Uttarakhand, adding spiritual
significance to the festival and further reinforcing its cultural and
ecological relevance.
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