The traditions of fair have been followed since ancient
times in the state of Uttaranchal. The fairs and folk
festivals are quite famous in this state and are a blend
of the religious, social and cultural factors. These fairs
are important uphold religious and social significance.
Among the various festivals, the Chippla Jaat in
Uttaranchal in India is quite popular. People during this
festival go on a yatra from different villages of
Dharchula and Gorikhal regions and reach Kedardwe and
Najurikote. They go through thick forests, rocky lands and
Bugyals and travel barefoot during these days. The date of
the jaat is finalized by the dhami burha or bonia (folk
priest).
During this festival, the jaat travels from different
villages and collects the flag of red cloth pieces from
all the families of the villages and then goes to Barmano.
The yatris participating in this jaat have to travel
through different villages and cross Bunga, Garapani,
Mangthil gwar, Ganbhujdhura (the blooming bugyal) to reach
Brahmkund. On the way yatris will also see Jyulital and
Patojkund and from there the jaat reaches Bhaiman Kund.
One can visit the fair after visiting the Kanar devi
temple.
Different aspects of human faith find expression in the
Chippla Jaat in Uttaranchal. Dance, collective food, songs
and bare foot journey as well as the possession of the
body of Bonia by the folk god are the vital elements of
Chhipla Jaat. |
