Uttarakhand
Igas Bagwal Festival
- 13 Nov 2024
- 2 min read
Why in News?
Igas Bagwal, also known as Budhi Diwali or Harbodhni Ekadashi, is a traditional festival celebrated in Uttarakhand 11 days after Diwali. The festival reflects the cultural heritage of the state, uniting communities through shared traditions and festivities.
Key Points
- Origins and Significance:
- Igas Bagwal is celebrated on Kartik Shukla Ekadashi and marks the end of Lord Vishnu’s four-month rest period, an auspicious time for new beginnings.
- The term "Igas" resonates with cultural pride and mythological reverence in Uttarakhand.
- It is believed that when news of Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya reached Uttarakhand 11 days after Diwali, locals celebrated their version of Diwali.
- Another legend celebrates the victory of Garhwali warrior Madhav Singh Bhandari over Tibet at Dapaghati, commemorated by the community as a symbol of unity and valor.
- Bhailo- The Torch Tradition:
- Villagers create large torches called Bhailo or Andhaya by binding pinewood sticks, which are lit and swung overhead, symbolizing the banishment of darkness.
- This torch ritual is also believed to invoke blessings of prosperity from Goddess Lakshmi.
- Festival Rituals and Cattle Honoring:
- Cattle, essential to Uttarakhand's agrarian lifestyle, are honored during Igas Bagwal. Villagers wash and decorate them with turmeric and mustard oil.
- Special meals are prepared for the animals, and traditional delicacies are shared among villagers to celebrate communal harmony.
- Efforts to Preserve Igas Bagwal:
- Local authorities and cultural organizations promote Igas Bagwal through programs and awareness campaigns, aiming to preserve the festival's heritage.
- Youth-focused initiatives emphasize the cultural significance of Igas Bagwal, ensuring its legacy endures for future generations.
