Uttarayani Kautik: The Vibrant Cultural Fair

Hey Everyone!!

As the festival of Makar Sankranti and Ghughuti ended, a special tradition from my hometown, Bageshwar, Uttarakhand, brought its charm to Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, a neighbouring state. Every year, a cultural fair is organized here, lasting 15 days from the Ghughuti. Originally held on the banks of the Saryu River in Bageshwar, this fair is a way for people of Uttarakhand living far from home to reconnect with their roots.

This year, the fair was no different. It was a vibrant display of Uttarakhand's heritage and traditions. The stalls showcased everything from local grains and spices to handcrafted jewelry and traditional outfits. For someone like me, who lives far from the hills, this fair felt like a slice of home. It was heartwarming to see the specialties of Uttarakhand being celebrated in Lucknow, and the crowd's energy made it even more special.

The fair wasn't just about shopping. Cultural performances were the main highlight. From folk dances and singing competitions to people dressed in traditional attire, the atmosphere was alive with enthusiasm. The organizers also hosted various contests, and on the final day, prizes were awarded to the winners. Witnessing these performances reminded me of the rich cultural heritage of my hometown.

One unique tradition of the Bageshwar fair is bringing the sacred Jyoti (a lit Diya) from the Bagnath temple, a prominent Shiva temple in Bageshwar around which the fair is held. The Jyoti is brought to the fair and returned to the temple after 15 days, allowing attendees to seek blessings even while being away from home. This small yet significant ritual brought a spiritual essence to the fair.

Although my busy schedule almost kept me away, my mother reminded me that it was the last day. I made sure to take a couple of hours off and soak in the energy of the event. From the colorful attire of the performers to the cheerful vibe of the fair, everything brought back fond memories of my hometown.

For people like me, such fairs are not just events—they're emotional connections to the place where we grew up. Through these pictures, I hope to share a glimpse of this beautiful experience. It’s a reminder of how important it is to keep our culture alive, no matter where we live.

Hope you enjoy these snapshots of a mini-Uttarakhand in Lucknow!

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TᕼᗩᑎK YOᑌ😊
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