The festival of lights, has many different traditions and customs- some varying from mild to extremes- Extremes also include the statutory Diwali cleaning that are obligated by Moms 😉 😛 Some traditions are the regular ones puja, then exchanging gifts, playing cards, bursting crackers and stuff; but are unholy and unscrupulous like the owl sacrificing ritual of Delhi, while some are bizarre- like the Buddhi Diwali and Pathron Ka Mela, celebrated in the abode of Gods and Snow, the Dev Bhoomi Himachal.
Let’s have a look at these bizarre traditions that people follow so religiously since middle ages, and some also from the ancient times.
1. Buddhi Diwali:
Also called as the Dark Diwali, this age-old tradition is celebrated for 3 days after one whole month of the celebration of actual Diwali. The locals celebrate this delayed Diwali because the news of the return of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita with Lakshmana reached them a month later than their actual arrival. Hence, it was celebrated late in few remote villages like Sirmaur, Kullu and Shimla. The Buddhi Diwali is celebrated on the first ‘amavasya’, or new moon after the actual Diwali.
Another reason for celebration of Buddhi Diwali is to commemorate the killings of the snake demons Dano and Asur. During this festival, villagers make Pahadi cuisines along with mooda, which is a mixture of wheat grains and bhaang.
Buddhi Diwali was earlier celebrated by followers of Lord Parshurama, who was believed to reside at Himachal Pradesh. The festivities included singing the folklore, dancing and animal sacrifices as well, but in most parts of the state, due to wildlife protection act, animal sacrifices is not being practiced as of now.
2. Pathron Ka Mela:
An 18th century ritual which initiated by the Queen of Dhami in order to stop the human sacrifices immediately the day after Diwali to appease Goddess Kali. People hurl stones at each other and the moment someone is injured in the group, the blood of the injured will then be smeared on the idol of the Goddess Kali to appease her.
Although, this tradition is celebrated under heavy police protection these days to avoid any major casualty due to pelting of stones. Although regarded as cruel, the natives are quite enthusiastic about the pelting of stones and engage in the celebration in large numbers. The festival stops only after the injured person does the tilak of the Goddess Kali.
Himachal Pradesh, called the abode of Gods and Snow, has many interesting and exotic experiences to offer. These bizarre Diwali traditions are only the small percentage of the amazing experiences of the state.
By: Archa Dave
