Among the myriad festivals celebrated with zeal and enthusiasm, the Holi festival holds a special place in the hearts of the Himachal people. Every year, as winter recedes and spring beckons, the Sangla Valley comes alive with vibrant hues and cheerful melodies to celebrate Holi.
Holi In Sangla Valley
The celebration of Holi in Sangla Valley begins weeks in advance, with preparations permeating every corner of the valley. Holi is a component of the four-day Faguli Festival in Sangla Valley. The third day of the celebration is dedicated to celebrating Holi. It’s a four-day Faguli Festival in Sangla Valley. The third day of the celebration is dedicated to celebrating Holi. The primary ceremony is held at Nag Temple, the main temple in Sangla Valley.
Everybody gathers at the Nag Mandir on the morning of Holi, and some of the males dress up as figures from the epic Ramayana. After that, these figures lead the procession as it leaves the Nag Temple and travels through the villages. It’s a sight to behold. In addition to the traditional liquor known as phasur, local specialities are served throughout the parade. On the first day, Totu, a meal made from roasted barley flour and buttermilk, is prepared and served as prasad. As the procession moves from one community to another, many people join in the fun.
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Holi Celebrations Here
#Faag is being celebrated across d state with gaiety & fervour..An occasion synonymous with festival of #Holi where deities play color with their devotees…
Heartiest Greetings…🙏🙏🙏#faag #holi #festival #tradition #himachal
📸Sourav_Vashisht pic.twitter.com/2Zj96DYZmS— Shimla_wala 🇮🇳 (@Shimla_wala) March 1, 2018
The day of Holi begins with the lovely sounds of folk music filling the air. Men and women dressed in traditional costumes assemble in village squares and temples to pray for prosperity and happiness. The true spirit of Sangla Valley Holi emerges throughout the day in the form of regionally specific cultural performances and customs. The captivating “Phagli” dance is one of the attractions of the Sangla Valley Holi festival. Phagli, an elegant dance done by both men and women, has ancient roots and is accompanied by traditional musical instruments such as dhol and nagara. The dance, marked by complex footwork and elegant motions, represents the balance between humans and nature—a deeply engrained theme.
The Holi celebrations in Kinnaur’s Sangla Valley include music, wine distribution, and a reenactment of several stories from the epic Ramayana. The most unique aspect is that the Faguli celebration is observed by lighting oil lamps, like is done during Diwali.
Are you heading to the Sangla Valley to celebrate Holi?
Cover image credits: Wikimedia Commons