The Bagwal Fair is primarily celebrated in the Bhowali region, particularly in the village of Devidhura, during the month of August. It is a part of the larger Nanda Devi festival, which is a significant religious occasion in Uttarakhand. The fair is rooted in the region’s agrarian culture and is linked with an ancient tradition of offering prayers and seeking the blessings of the local deities, particularly Nanda Devi, the goddess of prosperity and protection.

During the fair, people engage in a spectacular yet intense ritual where they participate in the famous stone-throwing battle. The fair is a reflection of the community’s deep connection to its religious beliefs, nature, and traditional customs, and it serves as an avenue for people to gather, pay respects, and showcase their devotion.

History of the Bagwal Fair

The origins of the Bagwal Fair are steeped in the folklore and traditions of the Kumaon region. The fair has been celebrated for centuries, and while the specific historical beginnings are hard to trace, the ritual of stone-throwing is believed to have evolved from an ancient custom of war games where warriors used stones and other weapons to prepare for battles.

According to local legends, the Bagwal Fair was instituted to commemorate a victory over enemies or to honor the triumph of good over evil. It is said that this ritual was performed to invoke the blessings of Nanda Devi and her twin sister, Sunanda, to protect the villagers from harm and ensure a bountiful harvest. Over time, the practice became institutionalized as part of the larger Nanda Devi celebrations and has continued for generations.

Historically, it was believed that the event would strengthen the bond between communities, and each village would come together in a shared effort to express gratitude and reverence to the goddess. The traditional stone-throwing battle, while symbolic, represents a fight against evil forces and is meant to signify the triumph of life and prosperity

Where to Celebrate

The Bagwal Fair is predominantly celebrated in Devidhura, located in the Bhowali region of Uttarakhand. Devidhura is situated at an altitude of around 1,800 meters above sea level, making it an idyllic destination surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Kumaon hills. The area is known for its peaceful ambiance, scenic landscapes, and its proximity to the popular hill station of Nainital, which is just a few kilometers away.

The fair takes place in the Devidhura Temple complex, dedicated to Nanda Devi, which becomes the focal point of the celebrations. The site also has other temples dedicated to various gods and goddesses, contributing to the religious and spiritual significance of the event. Pilgrims and tourists from across the country and abroad flock to Devidhura to participate in or witness the stone-throwing ritual and to be a part of the larger festivities.

While the main event is celebrated at Devidhura, some neighboring villages in the Kumaon region, such as Bhowali, also participate in the fair by sending representatives to take part in the ritual. The participation of multiple communities makes the event a grand occasion that promotes unity, tradition, and shared cultural values.

When the Festival Occurs

The Bagwal Fair is held during the month of August every year, coinciding with the Nanda Devi festival. The Nanda Devi festival, which honors the goddess Nanda Devi, typically lasts for 15 days and takes place around the time of the Shravan month in the Hindu lunar calendar. This is the time when farmers seek blessings for a good harvest, and devotees express their gratitude for nature’s bounty.

The peak of the Bagwal Fair occurs on Shravan Purnima, the full moon day in August, marking the culmination of the festival’s spiritual activities. Pilgrims gather at the temple complex to offer prayers, participate in rituals, and take part in the unique and challenging stone-throwing ceremony.

The fair is generally celebrated during the monsoon season, when the weather is humid and rainy, adding to the intensity and fervor of the celebrations. The festival typically lasts for about a week, with the stone-throwing ritual taking place on a designated day, usually a Saturday or Sunday, to ensure maximum participation.

Festival Attractions

The Bagwal Fair is one of the most extraordinary and thrilling festivals in Uttarakhand, and its main attraction is undoubtedly the stone-throwing ritual. However, the event is not only about the ritual; it is also a cultural extravaganza with various religious, social, and artistic elements. Some of the key attractions of the festival are as follows:

• Stone-Throwing Ritual: The main attraction of the Bagwal Fair is the unique and intense stone-throwing battle. The ritual involves two groups of participants, typically young men, who hurl stones at each other with great enthusiasm. The stones are thrown at a distance and are not intended to cause harm. The battle is more symbolic in nature, representing the clash between good and evil. The ritual is performed under the supervision of local priests to ensure safety and fairness.
• Religious Ceremonies: The Bagwal Fair is deeply religious, and many rituals are performed to honor Nanda Devi and other deities. Devotees participate in prayers, offerings, and processions at the Devidhura Temple, which adds a spiritual element to the festivities. Devotional songs, chants, and hymns echo throughout the event, creating an atmosphere of reverence and devotion.
• Cultural Performances: The fair also features various cultural performances, including traditional Kumaoni dance forms such as Choliya, which is a lively and energetic dance that tells stories of valor and heroism. Folk music, drumming, and performances by local artists keep the attendees entertained.
• Traditional Fairs and Markets: In addition to the religious and cultural activities, the Bagwal Fair also hosts a traditional fair where vendors sell local handicrafts, agricultural products, traditional Kumaoni attire, and other items. The fairgrounds are bustling with people, creating a festive atmosphere with colorful stalls, food stalls offering local delicacies, and folk artists showcasing their crafts.
• Pilgrimage and Tourism: For many, the Bagwal Fair is an opportunity for a pilgrimage to the Devidhura Temple, dedicated to Nanda Devi. Pilgrims visit the temple to seek blessings, pay homage, and participate in the communal activities. The festival also attracts tourists interested in experiencing the unique culture and customs of the region, making it an ideal time for exploring the scenic beauty of the Kumaon hills.
• Community Bonding: The Bagwal Fair is a time when communities come together, regardless of their social or economic background. The shared participation in the fair fosters a sense of unity and mutual respect. This collective participation is a reminder of the region’s strong community ties and the importance of shared traditions.

So, The Bagwal Fair in Uttarakhand is not just a festival, but a celebration of life, culture, and spirituality. Through its unique rituals and vibrant festivities, it offers a fascinating insight into the traditional practices of the Kumaon region. The fair exemplifies the region’s deep connection to its deities, nature, and customs. Visitors who attend the Bagwal Fair are not only witnesses to an exhilarating cultural event but also become part of a time-honored tradition that has survived for centuries. For those seeking an immersive and meaningful experience, the Bagwal Fair is undoubtedly a festival worth witnessing.