Rampur Bushahr | Special Correspondent: Bisheshar Negi
The four-day-long Fag Festival, celebrated to mark the arrival of spring, is in full swing in Rampur Bushahr. This grand event beautifully blends devotion, tradition, and culture, attracting thousands of devotees and cultural enthusiasts from across Himachal Pradesh.
This year, 28 deities from Kullu and Shimla have arrived at the festival, accompanied by their devotees (devalus) dressed in traditional attire. The rhythmic dances, vibrant costumes, and age-old rituals have created a mesmerizing atmosphere.
A Tradition Rooted in History
In earlier times, heavy snowfall would disrupt transportation and communication in the hilly regions. The Fag Festival emerged as an occasion for social gathering and cultural bonding, ensuring the continuation of traditions. Even today, the festival remains a symbol of unity and heritage.
Rampur witnessed a grand Utsav celebration from March 15 to 18 at the Raj darbar. Himachal PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh and his mother Himachal Congress President Pratibha Singh, who were welcomed at the Raj darbar gates by the royal family.
Before the inauguration, a traditional puja (worship) of all deities was performed at the Rajdarbar Ground Gate by the Municipal Council. the council bid farewell to the deities with ceremonial offerings.
Executive Officer of Municipal Council, B.R. Negi, stated that a total of 29 deities, including Chhotu ke Devta, graced the festival. As per tradition, the council offered them a tribute of approximately ₹5.5 lakh. He further emphasized that efforts are underway to make the festival even more grand in the coming years.
Lablue Azad, a devotee of Shrai Koti Durga, shares:
“We have come in traditional attire to keep our culture alive. It is our responsibility to pass on our faith and traditions to the next generation.”
Usha Devi, a devotee, expresses her joy:
“For four days, we have been celebrating this festival, receiving the blessings of our deities and reconnecting with our relatives. This festival is a reflection of our rich heritage.”
Sushma Makhaik, another devotee, adds:
“The festival is centuries old, and seeking the blessings of the deities here is considered highly auspicious. The overwhelming presence of devotees makes this experience even more special.”
Surendra Thakur, a devotee of Kasholi Devta, remarks:
“Our deity has been part of this festival for years. Devotees in traditional costumes are performing ritual dances, creating an atmosphere of divine celebration.”
More Than Just a Festival
The Fag Festival is not just a religious gathering but also a grand cultural and social celebration. Every year, the arrival of deities is welcomed with sacred rituals, and the festival brings communities together in a spirit of devotion and joy.
This is not merely a fair; it is a festival of tradition and togetherness!
