Art and culture of Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand is popularly known for its beauty and land of gods and also well known for its ancient culture. It was earlier named Uttaranchal by the Government of Bhartiya Janata Party but the name Uttarakhand remains popular in the region so it was renamed Uttarakhand.
The people of this state are called Pahari’s, Uttarakhand is home to multiple ethnic groups such groups include Raji, Tharu, Bhotia, Buxa, Jaunsari. Music, dance and arts are a manifest for the firm religious bonds of the people inspiring Himalayas. Those lovely valleys tells a story and poetry of life. The most popular kumbh mela that is held every twelve year witnesses some of the largest gathering of devotees. Daily aartis will take you directly to the heaven which is performed every evening in Haridwar and Rishikesh and countless diyas offered to the goddess. Uttarakhand is also home to very popular Char Dham yatra the four most sacred and revered Hindu temples kedarnath, badrinath, gangotri, yamunotri are nestled in the mighty Himalayas of Uttarakhand. Uttarakhand is known for its beautiful Garhwali and kumaoni culture. Garhwali is the main spoken language that originates from Hindi. The urban population, however, converses mostly in Hindi. The lives of the people of Uttarakhand are filled with the lots of folks music and folk dance. There are many folk songs and music which are still popular and performed in marriages, festivals and while any other celebrations some of folks dance include Barada Nati, langvir Nritya, Pandav Nritya, Dhurang and Dhuring and some folk songs include Basanti, Mangal, Jagars, khuded, Chhura and some of the most delicious mouth watering specialties of Uttarakhand include Urad dal ke pakode, Phanu, Chainsoo, Bhang ki chutney and many more. While Bal Mithai is a popular sweet while other sweets are Swal, Khajur, Arsa, Mishri, Gatta, and Gulgulas.. Ghagri is a long skirt that is worn by mostly all the women of Uttarakhand and Orni which is generally fixed firmly to the waist. And man wears lower garment which is either a Dhoti or a Lungi. Various colored Kurtas are worn as the upper garment. In addition, headgear or a turban is a must add-on to complete this traditional costume Uttarakhand beauty is really mesmerizing to see, Himalaya’s, Valleys and lakes will attract you towards it. The beautiful amalgamation of different tradition gives rise to a wonderful culture and lifestyle to the local people.
