Sawan Begins With Harela Festival In Uttarakhand 2024
NDTV
Harela is a time for communal joy, marked by singing folk songs and crafting clay idols of Lord Shiva's family for home worship.
Sawan officially begins today (July 16th) with the lively Harela festival celebrated throughout Uttarakhand. This traditional celebration, which symbolises wealth and well-being, is very important to the area's agriculture and culture.
People celebrate Harela, which translates to "day of greenery," in the fifth month of the lunar calendar. It honours Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati while highlighting the link between wealth and flora, which is particularly dear to the Kumaon community.
Cultural Practices:Prior to the onset of Sawan, a dikori (sacred pot) was chosen for sowing Harela seeds. Over nine days, wheat, barley, and other seeds are nurtured with daily waterings. On the tenth day, harela is harvested, symbolising happiness and agricultural bounty.
