Harela Festival 2024: Celebrating Agriculture and Culture in Uttarakhand
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Official beginning of Sawan accompanied by the Harela festival in Uttarakhand. |
| Date | July 16, 2024 |
| Significance | Marks the onset of the monsoon season, important for agriculture and cultural prosperity. |
| Origin | Kumaon region of Uttarakhand; also celebrated in parts of Himachal Pradesh. |
| Name Derivation | From the Kumaoni word 'Hariyala,' meaning 'Day of Green.' |
| Other Names | Known as Hariyali or Rihyali in regions like Kangra, Shimla, Sirmour, Jubbal, and Kinnaur. |
| Rituals | Sowing of Harela seeds (wheat, barley) in a sacred pot, nurturing for nine days, harvesting on the tenth day. |
| Preparation | Cleaning and decorating homes with greenery and flowers; preparing traditional dishes. |
| Prayers | Offerings to Goddess Parvati, Lord Shiva, and Lord Ganesha. |
| Symbolism | Distribution of harvested young plants as a symbol of prosperity. |
| Environmental Aspect | Tree plantation drives to enhance green cover and support agriculture. |
| Agricultural Belief | Plants nurtured during Harela are believed to blossom abundantly, ensuring a bountiful harvest. |