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Introduction :
In the hilly state of Uttaranchal, there are a large
number of temples. These temples are the venues of many
fairs that are held when the festivals are celebrated. The
essentially religious minded people of the state celebrate
the Nanda Devi Fair in remembrance of the goddesses Nanda
and Sunanda. It is held in many places in Uttaranchal like
Almora, Nainital, Nauti, Dandidhara, Munsyari, Ranikhet,
Bhowali, Kichha and also in the small sleepy hamlets of
Lohar (like Milam and Martoli) and Pindar valleys (like
Wachham and Khati). The fairs at Almora and Roopkund draw
the largest number of people. |
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History :
The fair started way back in the 16th century. According
to legend, the fair was initiated by Raja Kalyan Chand.
Description :
This cultural carnival is of immense religious and
cultural significance. The term Nanda means prosperity and
well being. If the Nanda Devi Mela is held with a great
deal of pomp and grandeur, it symbolizes the economic and
cultural prosperity of the region.
People
participate in the procession which carries the dola
(litter) of Nanda Devi. The goddess is devotedly
worshipped in the temple.
The place bubbles with a lot of activity and appears to
have gained a fresh lease of life at the time of the fair.
If you visit to the fair you can get an insight into the
material and cultural prosperity of the region. A lot of
hand made products made by the village craftsmen are
bought for sale. You can also witness some superb
performances by the local artistes at all these fairs. It
is a splendid chance for them to uphold their folk
traditions and put up song and dance programmes.
Small school children and young college students also
participate in the fair and display their talents in the
functions. The varied sights and sounds create a very
joyous ambience.
Time for celebrating :
The fair is generally held in the month of September. |
