Saturday , 01 August 2009 saw the traditional inauguration of historic Devidhura Fair in North India. After the customary rituals, a huge cultural procession echoing 'Mata Vairahi Ki Jai ' went round the temple town.This was followed by religious songs, dances & dramas much to the happiness of spectators.The Fair 'Asadhi Kautik' will continue for 13 days.
The biggest attraction of this fair will be simulation of Stone War 'Bugwal' that was solemnised on 05 Aug 2009 -the RAKSHABANDHAN Day.The Devidhura Fair is a blend of Kumaoni culture,customs,traditions,spiritualism,chivalry,bravery & dedication to the Goddess 'BARAHI' .This fair especially the Bugwal is witnessed by hundreds of thousands of worshippers who assemble every year in this temple city.A fair sprinkling amongst these are from foreign counties.In a way this festival is as much a local festival as much national & international.
Devidhura Temple is situated in Pati Block of Champawat in the state of Uttarakhand in India.It is situated at a place where boundaries of Almora,Nainital & Champawat Districts meet.Along with the famous Devidhura Temple,Pati Block of Champawat District also houses the famous Ritha Saheb.
In the present age of advanced Science & Technology,the Devidhura Bugwal Fair is a testimony to century old religious, martial & spiritual beliefs. People taking part in the Stone War (Bugwal) are honoured as brave warriors & afforded a status as such.Four 'Khams' take part in the Stone War.The warriors follow their Leaders in letter & spirit & observe a strict code of conduct,cleanliness,living & food habits for full four weeks prior to the day of Stone War.All Khams led by their respective leaders march on foot to Devidhura preceded by the deafening noises of drums & martial music.Local inhabitants & children in large numbers follow the Khams. All houses are painted & the surroundings kept neat & clean. The warriors are given a place of pride & preference in all activities. The marching routes are pre determined & after reaching Devidhura they are formed into two rival camps led by MAHARS & PHARTIYALS.Now begins the war in right earnest.Each side throws big stones on the other side with amazing speed,regularity & accuracy-all with religious fervour & faith.Till date,no one has died.In fact,any injuries sustained are considered as the blessings of the Goddess.Lo & behold ! All injuries heal by themselves & no treatment of any kind is given.The Charanamrit of Goddess Varahi is applied to the wounds & they heal automatically.
Both-Atkinson of the Himalayan Gajetteer's fame & Jim Corbett have written about this centuries old Stone War 'BUGWAL' & it's mystries in their respective writings.
UTTARAKHAND truly is a Land of Spiritualsm, Brave Warriors & Artists.
THE WARRIORS' LOT
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