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  • Syalde Bikhauti Mela Festival

    Syalde Bikhauti Mela Fest is a vibrant religious and cultural festival in Uttarakhand, celebrated with rituals, dances, and pilgrimages to seek divine blessings



Syalde Bikhauti Mela is a traditional and culturally rich fair celebrated in the Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand, specifically in the town of Syalde, located in the Kumaon region. The festival holds great religious and cultural significance, especially among the local inhabitants of the Kumaoni region. It is a grand event that has been celebrated for centuries and continues to attract a large number of devotees, pilgrims, and tourists. The festival is dedicated to the deities of the region, with an emphasis on the worship of Lord Bholenath (Shiva), along with the local gods and goddesses who protect the land and its people. The Syalde Bikhauti Mela is a time for community bonding, spiritual awakening, and the showcasing of Kumaoni customs and rituals.

History of the Syalde Bikhauti Mela Festival:

The origins of the Syalde Bikhauti Mela date back to centuries ago, with the fair being deeply rooted in the region’s Hindu traditions. It is believed that the festival first began as a religious gathering where local people would come together to offer prayers and seek the blessings of the gods, especially to ensure good harvests and protection from natural calamities. Over time, the festival evolved to become a major event for not only religious activities but also for socializing, trading, and celebrating the rich cultural diversity of the region.

The fair is named after the village of Syalde, which is considered the epicenter of the celebrations. The term “Bikhauti” is derived from the ancient rituals and prayers that are part of the event. These prayers are believed to be auspicious, bringing peace, prosperity, and happiness to the people who take part in them.

The Mela is also historically significant because it represents the cultural integration of various communities in the Kumaon region. Throughout history, the festival served as a platform for neighboring villagers to come together, exchange goods, and reinforce cultural ties. It was a time to celebrate the unity of the people and the divinity that guided their lives.

Where the Festival is Celebrated:

The Syalde Bikhauti Mela is celebrated primarily in the town of Syalde, which lies in the Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand, in the Kumaon region. This area is known for its beautiful landscapes, with high mountain peaks, dense forests, and deep river valleys.

The fair usually takes place in Syalde, which is a small town surrounded by several villages in the vicinity. However, the festivities are not confined to the town alone. Devotees and pilgrims from surrounding areas, including towns such as Kausani, Almora, Bageshwar, and other regions in Uttarakhand, travel to Syalde to participate in the celebrations.

When the Festival Occurs:

Syalde Bikhauti Mela is celebrated annually, typically in the month of March or April, aligning with the Hindu calendar. The festival is celebrated during the auspicious occasion of Chaitra Navratri, a nine-day period dedicated to worshipping the Hindu Goddess Durga. The fair takes place on the second day of the Navratri festival and continues for several days, with the main activities peaking around the 8th or 9th day.

The exact dates may vary slightly each year based on the lunar calendar. Pilgrims from across the state and neighboring regions plan their visits to coincide with the festival, making it a grand spectacle that is eagerly awaited by both locals and tourists alike.

Festival Attractions:

  • Religious Rituals and Pujas:
    At the heart of the Syalde Bikhauti Mela is the series of religious rituals and pujas (prayers) performed by devotees seeking divine blessings. The most significant ritual is the Chhadi Mela, where a procession carrying sacred banners and flags representing various local deities moves through the streets of Syalde. These deities are believed to bless the land and protect the local people from natural disasters and diseases. Devotees offer flowers, fruits, and traditional offerings as they seek blessings for prosperity, health, and happiness.

  • Cultural Performances:
    The Mela is not only a religious festival but also a showcase of Kumaoni culture. During the fair, there are various folk performances, including traditional dances like the Chholiya Dance and Kumaoni Dances. These dances are accompanied by the beats of the dhol (drum), and they depict stories from the region’s history and folklore. The dancers often wear traditional Kumaoni attire, which adds to the authenticity and beauty of the performances.

  • Fairs and Markets:
    One of the most attractive features of the Syalde Bikhauti Mela is the bustling marketplace that springs up during the festival. Stalls selling local handicrafts, handwoven textiles, Kumaoni jewelry, and religious artifacts line the streets. This marketplace provides a chance for visitors to purchase souvenirs and enjoy the colorful offerings from the local artisans. The fair also features food stalls offering local delicacies like Bal Mithai, Singodi, and Aloo Ke Gutke.

  • Pilgrimage to Sacred Temples:
    Another important attraction during the Syalde Bikhauti Mela is the pilgrimage to the temples of Syalde. The Syalde Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is the focal point of worship. Pilgrims from all over the region come here to offer prayers and seek blessings. Other nearby temples are also visited during the fair, and the pilgrimage adds a spiritual element to the entire festival.

  • Spiritual and Religious Lectures:
    During the festival, there are often spiritual discourses and lectures delivered by prominent spiritual leaders. These talks focus on moral values, spirituality, and the teachings of Hindu scriptures. Devotees attend these discourses to gain a deeper understanding of their faith and to seek spiritual guidance.

  • Community Bonding and Socializing:
    Beyond the religious and cultural activities, the festival also offers a chance for community bonding. Villagers and people from different parts of Uttarakhand come together to meet friends and family members they may not have seen for a long time. It’s a social occasion where people can catch up, form new relationships, and participate in friendly gatherings.

So, The Syalde Bikhauti Mela is a grand, multi-faceted event that is both a spiritual pilgrimage and a celebration of the region’s rich culture and traditions. It is a festival that brings together the people of Uttarakhand in the spirit of unity, devotion, and celebration. From its religious rituals and cultural performances to the vibrant markets and sacred pilgrimages, the Syalde Bikhauti Mela is a significant event that showcases the timeless customs of the Kumaoni people. For those looking to experience the heart and soul of Uttarakhand, this festival offers an unforgettable journey into the state’s rich heritage and spiritual depth.