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The Uttarayani Fair, also known as the Uttarayani Mela, is an annual Fair celebrated in the [[Kumaon division|Kumaon]] region of [[Uttarakhand]], [[India]],<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-01-15 |title=Uttarayani fair in Bageshwar kickstarts with cultural splendour |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/dehradun/uttarayani-fair-in-bageshwar-kickstarts-with-cultural-splendour/articleshow/106849736.cms |access-date=2024-12-07 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> marking the auspicious occasion of [[Makar Sankranti]]. This festival takes place in the second week of January, the most significant celebration occurs at [[Bageshwar]], where the fair is held along the banks of the sacred [[Sarju|Saryu]] and [[Gomti River|Gomti]] rivers, particularly at the [[Bagnath Temple]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nanda |date=2019-01-08 |title=Uttarayani Fair Bageshwar {{!}} Mythology, Event, Festival Info {{!}} Uttarayani Mela |url=https://www.euttaranchal.com/tourism/uttarayani-fair-bageshwar.php?form=MG0AV3#google_vignette |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=www.euttaranchal.com |language=en}}</ref>
The Uttarayani Fair, also known as the Uttarayani Mela, is an annual Fair celebrated in the [[Kumaon division|Kumaon]] region of [[Uttarakhand]], [[India]],<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-01-15 |title=Uttarayani fair in Bageshwar kickstarts with cultural splendour |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/dehradun/uttarayani-fair-in-bageshwar-kickstarts-with-cultural-splendour/articleshow/106849736.cms |access-date=2024-12-07 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> marking the auspicious occasion of [[Makar Sankranti]]. <ref>{{Cite web |last=Storytrails |date=2023-01-14 |title=Makar Sankranti: A Chronicle of Calendars |url=https://storytrails.in/culture/makar-sankranti-a-chronicle-of-calendars/ |access-date=2024-12-08 |website=Storytrails |language=en-US}}</ref>This festival takes place in the second week of January, the most significant celebration occurs at [[Bageshwar]], where the fair is held along the banks of the sacred [[Sarju|Saryu]] and [[Gomti River|Gomti]] rivers, particularly at the [[Bagnath Temple]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nanda |date=2019-01-08 |title=Uttarayani Fair Bageshwar {{!}} Mythology, Event, Festival Info {{!}} Uttarayani Mela |url=https://www.euttaranchal.com/tourism/uttarayani-fair-bageshwar.php?form=MG0AV3#google_vignette |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=www.euttaranchal.com |language=en}}</ref>


== Etymology ==
== Etymology ==
The term "Uttarayani" is derived from two [[Sanskrit]] words: "Uttara," meaning "north," and "Ayana," meaning "movement" or "path."<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-01-12 |title=What & When Is Uttarayan? |url=https://www.dictionary.com/e/historical-current-events/uttarayan/ |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=Dictionary.com |language=en-US}}</ref>Together, Uttarayani signifies the northward journey of the sun as it transitions from the Tropic of Capricorn to the Tropic of Cancer. This astronomical event marks the end of the [[winter solstice]] and the beginning of longer days, a time celebrated in various cultures across [[India]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=The Significance of Uttarayana |url=https://isha.sadhguru.org/en/wisdom/article/significance-uttarayana |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=isha.sadhguru.org |language=en}}</ref>
The term "Uttarayani" comes from two Sanskrit words: Uttara, which means "north," and Ayana, which means "movement" or "path."<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-01-12 |title=What & When Is Uttarayan? |url=https://www.dictionary.com/e/historical-current-events/uttarayan/ |access-date=2024-12-08 |website=Dictionary.com |language=en-US}}</ref> Uttarayani refers to the sun's northward journey as it moves from the Tropic of Capricorn to the Tropic of Cancer. ​This astronomical event signifies the end of the winter solstice and the start of longer days.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The Significance of Uttarayana |url=https://isha.sadhguru.org/en/wisdom/article/significance-uttarayana |access-date=2024-12-08 |website=isha.sadhguru.org |language=en}}</ref>


== History ==
== History ==
The Uttarayani Fair has historically served as a platform for political activism and discourse, significantly impacting India's freedom struggle.​ In 1921, Pandit [[Badri Datt Pandey|Badri Dutt Pandey]], a key leader from the [[Kumaon division|Kumaon]] region associated with the Kumaun Parishad, leveraged the fair to mobilize local peasants against the oppressive begar system implemented by the [[British Empire|British colonial]] administration.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pathak |first=Shekhar |date=2021-01-12 |title=A hundred years ago, a fiery speech in Uttarakhand escalated the protests against forced labour |url=https://scroll.in/article/983754/a-hundred-years-ago-a-fiery-speech-in-uttarakhand-escalated-the-protests-against-forced-labour |access-date=2024-12-06 |website=Scroll.in |language=en}}</ref> <ref>{{Cite web |title=Badri dutt Pandey's speech at the uttarayani fair in 1921 |url=https://indianculture.gov.in/digital-district-repository/district-repository/badri-dutt-pandeys-speech-uttarayani-fair-1921 |website=IndianCulturegov.in}}</ref>His speeches rallied community support for social justice and resistance. [[Mahatma Gandhi]] also recognized the fair's importance; he visited in 1929, drawn by the robust spirit of resistance from the local populace.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tree |first=Kafal |date=2019-01-20 |title=Glimpses of Bageshwar Uttarayani Fair |url=https://kafaltree.com/bageshwar-uttarayani-mela-photos-english/ |access-date=2024-12-06 |website=Kafal Tree |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Gandhi's visit to kumaon in 1929 |url=https://indianculture.gov.in/digital-district-repository/district-repository/mahatma-gandhis-visit-kausani-1929 |website=Indianculturegov.in}}</ref>
In 1921, Pandit [[Badri Datt Pandey|Badri Dutt Pandey]], a key leader from the [[Kumaon division|Kumaon]] region associated with the Kumaun Parishad, visited the fair to mobilize local peasants against the oppressive begar system implemented by the [[British Empire|British colonial]] administration.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pathak |first=Shekhar |date=2021-01-12 |title=A hundred years ago, a fiery speech in Uttarakhand escalated the protests against forced labour |url=https://scroll.in/article/983754/a-hundred-years-ago-a-fiery-speech-in-uttarakhand-escalated-the-protests-against-forced-labour |access-date=2024-12-06 |website=Scroll.in |language=en}}</ref> <ref>{{Cite web |title=Badri dutt Pandey's speech at the uttarayani fair in 1921 |url=https://indianculture.gov.in/digital-district-repository/district-repository/badri-dutt-pandeys-speech-uttarayani-fair-1921 |website=IndianCulturegov.in}}</ref>His speeches rallied community support for social justice and resistance. [[Mahatma Gandhi]] also recognized the fair's importance when he visited it in 1929. <ref>{{Cite web |last=Tree |first=Kafal |date=2019-01-20 |title=Glimpses of Bageshwar Uttarayani Fair |url=https://kafaltree.com/bageshwar-uttarayani-mela-photos-english/ |access-date=2024-12-06 |website=Kafal Tree |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Gandhi's visit to kumaon in 1929 |url=https://indianculture.gov.in/digital-district-repository/district-repository/mahatma-gandhis-visit-kausani-1929 |website=Indianculturegov.in}}</ref>


== Legends and Folklores ==
== Legends and Folklores ==
One of the notable legends linked to the Uttarayani Fair involves Lord [[Shiva]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Himalayas, the Abode of Lord Shiva |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/travel/himalayas-the-abode-of-lord-shiva-part-ii/story-FyZkGUd1UMmW51rqUm9E8N.html |website=Hindustan.com}}</ref>Local folklore suggests that the fair is celebrated at a location where it is believed that Lord Shiva once roamed as a tiger, <ref>{{Cite web |title=Bagnath Temple, Bageshwar: A Spiritual Journey to Lord Shiva's Abode |url=https://helloprabhu.com/bagnath-temple-bageshwar-uttrakhand/#:~:text=Explore%20the%20ancient%20Bagnath,bless%20him.&text=Temple%20in%20Bageshwar,%20Uttarakhand,,bless%20him.&text=Lord%20Shiva%20appeared%20in,bless%20him.&text=form%20of%20a%20tiger,bless%20him. |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=helloprabhu.com |language=en}}</ref>particularly in the vicinity of the sacred [[Sarju|Saryu]] River. According to these traditions, the sage [[Markandeya]] is thought to have prayed to Lord Shiva at this site, asking for blessings and guidance.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bagnath Temple Travel Guide 2024 {{!}} Bageshwar - Uttarakhand Guide |url=https://uttarakhandguide.com/packages/bagnath-temple/#:~:text=According%20to%20legends%20and,his%20presence.&text=is%20a%20place%20where,his%20presence.&text=Shiva.%20Happy%20and%20pleased,his%20presence.&text=manifested%20in%20Bagh%20%E2%80%9CTiger%E2%80%9D,his%20presence. |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=Uttarakhand State {{!}} Tourism Guide {{!}} Details of all places |language=en-US}}</ref> ​<ref>{{Cite web |title=Temple dedicated to the lord shiva on the festive of Uttarayani fair |url=https://uttarakhandtourism.gov.in/destination/bageshwar?form=MG0AV3 |website=Uttrakhand Tourism}}</ref>
One of the notable legends associated with the Uttarayani Fair involves Lord [[Shiva]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Himalayas, the Abode of Lord Shiva |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/travel/himalayas-the-abode-of-lord-shiva-part-ii/story-FyZkGUd1UMmW51rqUm9E8N.html |website=Hindustan.com}}</ref>Local folklore suggests that the fair is celebrated at a location where it is believed that Lord Shiva once roamed as a tiger, <ref>{{Cite web |title=Bagnath Temple, Bageshwar: A Spiritual Journey to Lord Shiva's Abode |url=https://helloprabhu.com/bagnath-temple-bageshwar-uttrakhand/#:~:text=Explore%20the%20ancient%20Bagnath,bless%20him.&text=Temple%20in%20Bageshwar,%20Uttarakhand,,bless%20him.&text=Lord%20Shiva%20appeared%20in,bless%20him.&text=form%20of%20a%20tiger,bless%20him. |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=helloprabhu.com |language=en}}</ref>particularly in the vicinity of the sacred [[Sarju|Saryu]] River. According to the locals, the sage [[Markandeya]] is thought to have prayed to Lord Shiva at this site, asking for blessings and guidance.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bagnath Temple Travel Guide 2024 {{!}} Bageshwar - Uttarakhand Guide |url=https://uttarakhandguide.com/packages/bagnath-temple/#:~:text=According%20to%20legends%20and,his%20presence.&text=is%20a%20place%20where,his%20presence.&text=Shiva.%20Happy%20and%20pleased,his%20presence.&text=manifested%20in%20Bagh%20%E2%80%9CTiger%E2%80%9D,his%20presence. |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=Uttarakhand State {{!}} Tourism Guide {{!}} Details of all places |language=en-US}}</ref> ​<ref>{{Cite web |title=Temple dedicated to the lord shiva on the festive of Uttarayani fair |url=https://uttarakhandtourism.gov.in/destination/bageshwar?form=MG0AV3 |website=Uttrakhand Tourism}}</ref>


== Cultural Performances ==
== Cultural Performances ==
[[File:Cholliyar.jpg|thumb|262x262px|Traditional dances during the fair]]
[[File:Cholliyar.jpg|thumb|262x262px|Traditional dances during the fair]]
Folk artists perform traditional songs and dances, including [[Chholiya|chholiyas]], [[Jhora|Jhoras]], Chancharis, and Bairas,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Uttarayani Festival in Uttarakhand - Popular Festival of Uttarakhand |url=https://www.tourmyindia.com/states/uttarakhand/uttarayani-festival.html#:~:text=The%20sight%20of%20the,the%20fair.&text=completely%20enjoy%20the%20festival,the%20fair.&text=celebration.%20People%20also%20take,the%20fair.&text=well%20as%20the%20body.,the%20fair. |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=www.tourmyindia.com}}</ref> which are integral to the celebrations and provide entertainment for attendees. In addition to musical performances, the fair showcases local cuisines, featuring festive dishes that are unique to the Uttarayani celebrations, such as the sweet delicacy Ghughute, which is specifically made for this occasion.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-01-15 |title=All About Ghughutiya and Kumaon's Uttarayani Mela |url=https://www.outlookindia.com/travel/all-about-ghughutiya-and-kumaon-s-uttarayani-mela-news-30813#:~:text=Talking%20in%20an%20innocent,traditional%20palate.&text=garlands%20of%20sweetmeats%20of,traditional%20palate.&text=day%20of%20frolicking%20and,traditional%20palate.&text=the%20elders%20rummage%20through,traditional%20palate. |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=Outlook India |language=en}}</ref>
Folk artists perform traditional songs and dances, including [[Chholiya|chholiyas]], [[Jhora|Jhoras]], Chancharis, and Bairas,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Uttarayani Festival in Uttarakhand - Popular Festival of Uttarakhand |url=https://www.tourmyindia.com/states/uttarakhand/uttarayani-festival.html#:~:text=The%20sight%20of%20the,the%20fair.&text=completely%20enjoy%20the%20festival,the%20fair.&text=celebration.%20People%20also%20take,the%20fair.&text=well%20as%20the%20body.,the%20fair. |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=www.tourmyindia.com}}</ref>. In addition to musical performances, the fair showcases local cuisines, featuring festive dishes to the Uttarayani celebrations, such as the sweet delicacy Ghughute, which is specifically made for this occasion.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-01-15 |title=All About Ghughutiya and Kumaon's Uttarayani Mela |url=https://www.outlookindia.com/travel/all-about-ghughutiya-and-kumaon-s-uttarayani-mela-news-30813#:~:text=Talking%20in%20an%20innocent,traditional%20palate.&text=garlands%20of%20sweetmeats%20of,traditional%20palate.&text=day%20of%20frolicking%20and,traditional%20palate.&text=the%20elders%20rummage%20through,traditional%20palate. |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=Outlook India |language=en}}</ref>


== Products ==
== Products ==
[[File:Carpets selling at the Uttarayani Fair.jpg|thumb|296x296px|Merchants selling carpets at the Uttarayani Fair]]
[[File:Carpets selling at the Uttarayani Fair.jpg|thumb|296x296px|Merchants selling carpets at the Uttarayani Fair]]


The fair is renowned for its marketplace, where a variety of goods are traded.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bageshwar News: उत्तरायणी मेले में इस बार कम बिके हस्तशिल्पियों के उत्पाद |url=https://www.amarujala.com/uttarakhand/bageshwar/handicrafts-products-sold-less-this-time-in-uttarayani-fair-bageshwar-news-c-231-1-shld1004-3804-2024-01-21 |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=Amar Ujala |language=hi}}</ref>Local artisans showcase their skills, offering handcrafted products like pottery, bamboo baskets, and metalwork items.<ref>{{Cite web |title=History Of Uttarayani Fair |url=https://issuu.com/pujabisht_07/docs/uttrkhand_ppt.pptx/s/23316901#:~:text=If%20you%20are%20at,many%20more.&text=locals%E2%80%99%20lifestyle%20and%20one,many%20more.&text=local%20shops%20at%20the,many%20more.&text=here.%20Some%20of%20them,many%20more. |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=Issuu |language=en}}</ref> These metalworks often include utensils, decorative objects, and traditional musical instruments made from iron, copper, and brass. Textiles are another major commodity at the fair. Merchants from distant regions, including [[Tibet]] and [[Nepal]], bring a wide range of woolen products, such as blankets and durries.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Uttarayani Fair: Uttarayani Fair |url=https://kumaon.gov.in/pages/display/88-uttarayani-fair#:~:text=Among%20the%20things%20bought,Its%20commercial,&text=sold%20are%20blankets,%20durries,,Its%20commercial,&text=&%20bamboo%20articles.%20The,Its%20commercial,&text=at%20Bageshwar%20attracts%20maximum,Its%20commercial, |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=kumaon.gov.in}}</ref> Locally woven clothing items are also popular among buyers. A variety of food items, including pulses, seeds, and spices, sourced from the hilly regions are available for purchase.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nanda |date=2019-01-08 |title=Uttarayani Fair Bageshwar {{!}} Mythology, Event, Festival Info {{!}} Uttarayani Mela |url=https://www.euttaranchal.com/tourism/uttarayani-fair-bageshwar.php#:~:text=Things%20you%20can%20buy,carpets,%20spices&text=at%20Uttarayani%20fair%20are,carpets,%20spices&text=blankets,%20shawl,%20bamboo%20articles,,carpets,%20spices&text=and%20copper%20utensils,%20mattresses,,carpets,%20spices |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=www.euttaranchal.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Bharat |first=E. T. V. |date=2023-01-20 |title=Bageshwar Uttarayani Mela: मेले में लगा विकास प्रदर्शनी, किसानों के उत्पादों ने लोगों का ध्यान खींचा |url=https://www.etvbharat.com/hindi/uttarakhand/state/bageswar/farmers-products-center-of-attraction-in-uttarayani-mela/uttarakhand20230120192811698698980 |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=ETV Bharat News |language=hi}}</ref>
During the Fair, a variety of goods are traded.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bageshwar News: उत्तरायणी मेले में इस बार कम बिके हस्तशिल्पियों के उत्पाद |url=https://www.amarujala.com/uttarakhand/bageshwar/handicrafts-products-sold-less-this-time-in-uttarayani-fair-bageshwar-news-c-231-1-shld1004-3804-2024-01-21 |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=Amar Ujala |language=hi}}</ref>Local artisans showcase their skills, offering handcrafted products like pottery, bamboo baskets, and metalwork items.<ref>{{Cite web |title=History Of Uttarayani Fair |url=https://issuu.com/pujabisht_07/docs/uttrkhand_ppt.pptx/s/23316901#:~:text=If%20you%20are%20at,many%20more.&text=locals%E2%80%99%20lifestyle%20and%20one,many%20more.&text=local%20shops%20at%20the,many%20more.&text=here.%20Some%20of%20them,many%20more. |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=Issuu |language=en}}</ref> These metalworks often include utensils, decorative objects, and traditional musical instruments made from iron, copper, and brass. Textiles are another major commodity at the fair. Merchants from distant regions, including [[Tibet]] and [[Nepal]], bring a wide range of woolen products, such as blankets and durries.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Uttarayani Fair: Uttarayani Fair |url=https://kumaon.gov.in/pages/display/88-uttarayani-fair#:~:text=Among%20the%20things%20bought,Its%20commercial,&text=sold%20are%20blankets,%20durries,,Its%20commercial,&text=&%20bamboo%20articles.%20The,Its%20commercial,&text=at%20Bageshwar%20attracts%20maximum,Its%20commercial, |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=kumaon.gov.in}}</ref> Locally woven clothing items are also popular among buyers. A variety of food items, including pulses, seeds, and spices, sourced from the hilly regions are available for purchase.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nanda |date=2019-01-08 |title=Uttarayani Fair Bageshwar {{!}} Mythology, Event, Festival Info {{!}} Uttarayani Mela |url=https://www.euttaranchal.com/tourism/uttarayani-fair-bageshwar.php#:~:text=Things%20you%20can%20buy,carpets,%20spices&text=at%20Uttarayani%20fair%20are,carpets,%20spices&text=blankets,%20shawl,%20bamboo%20articles,,carpets,%20spices&text=and%20copper%20utensils,%20mattresses,,carpets,%20spices |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=www.euttaranchal.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Bharat |first=E. T. V. |date=2023-01-20 |title=Bageshwar Uttarayani Mela: मेले में लगा विकास प्रदर्शनी, किसानों के उत्पादों ने लोगों का ध्यान खींचा |url=https://www.etvbharat.com/hindi/uttarakhand/state/bageswar/farmers-products-center-of-attraction-in-uttarayani-mela/uttarakhand20230120192811698698980 |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=ETV Bharat News |language=hi}}</ref>
== Locations ==
== Locations ==
This vibrant fair is most prominently observed in the towns of [[Nainital]], [[Haldwani]], [[Almora]], [[Pithoragarh]], and [[Haridwar]], as well as in smaller yet significant locales such as [[Bageshwar]], Rameshwar, Sult Mahadev, Ranibagh, and Hanseshwar.​
The Uttarayani fair is most prominently observed in the towns of [[Nainital]], [[Haldwani]], [[Almora]], [[Pithoragarh]], and [[Haridwar]], as well as in smaller yet significant locales such as [[Bageshwar]], Rameshwar, Sult Mahadev, Ranibagh, and Hanseshwar.​


== Religious Sites ==
== Religious Sites ==
[[File:Bagnath Temple, Bageshwar.jpg|thumb|Bagnath temple during the Uttarayani Fair ]]The most prominent site during the Uttarayani Fair is the [[Bagnath Temple]] in [[Bageshwar]],<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bagnath temple at Bagnath |url=https://uttarakhandtourism.gov.in/destination/bageshwar |website=Uttarakhand Tourism}}</ref>which serves as the main venue for the fair and is recognized for its historical significance and association with [[Shiva|Lord Shiva]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=ahlawat.vinod |date=2024-09-26 |title=Uttarayani Fair - |url=https://tichr.in/uttarayani-fair/#:~:text=The%20Uttarayani%20Fair%20is,longer%20days.&text=it%20celebrates%20the%20movement,longer%20days.&text=from%20Dakshinayan%20(southward%20movement,longer%20days.&text=shift%20is%20considered%20auspicious,longer%20days. |access-date=2024-12-07 |language=en-US}}</ref> In addition to [[Badrinath Temple]], devotees also visit local temples dedicated to different deities, such as the Rameshwar and Sult Mahadev temples, which hold cultural and spiritual relevance. Other notable sites include Chitrashila and Hanseshwar, renowned for their religious importance on Utarayani day.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Uttarayani Fair: Uttarayani Fair |url=https://kumaon.gov.in/pages/display/88-uttarayani-fair |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=kumaon.gov.in}}</ref> Furthermore, the confluence of the Saryu and Gomti rivers is considered a sacred location, where devotees perform ritualistic holy dips, believed to purify the soul and provide spiritual benefits.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sangeeta |date=2013-04-10 |title=Significance of the Holy Dip in Hinduism |url=https://lifeisavacation.in/2013/04/10/mystery-of-the-holy-dip/#:~:text=Ida,%20Pingala%20and%20Sushumna,to%20intuition.&text=in%20the%20Ajna%20Chakra,to%20intuition.&text=forehead%20between%20the%20brows),to%20intuition.&text=the%20point%20which%20opens,to%20intuition. |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=Life is a Vacation |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Ghughutiya/Makar Sankranti Festival of Uttarakhand |url=https://colorsofuttarakhand.com/festivals/ghughutiya-makar-sankranti/#:~:text=Taking%20a%20dip%20in,immense%20significance.&text=holy%20rivers,%20especially%20in,immense%20significance.&text=of%20the%20Ganges%20and,immense%20significance.&text=Bageshwar,%20is%20a%20ritual,immense%20significance. |access-date=2024-12-07 |language=en-US}}</ref>
[[File:Bagnath Temple, Bageshwar.jpg|thumb|Bagnath temple during the Uttarayani Fair ]]The most prominent site during the Uttarayani Fair is the [[Bagnath Temple]] in [[Bageshwar]],<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bagnath temple at Bagnath |url=https://uttarakhandtourism.gov.in/destination/bageshwar |website=Uttarakhand Tourism}}</ref>which serves as the main venue for the fair and is recognized for its association with [[Shiva|Lord Shiva]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=ahlawat.vinod |date=2024-09-26 |title=Uttarayani Fair - |url=https://tichr.in/uttarayani-fair/#:~:text=The%20Uttarayani%20Fair%20is,longer%20days.&text=it%20celebrates%20the%20movement,longer%20days.&text=from%20Dakshinayan%20(southward%20movement,longer%20days.&text=shift%20is%20considered%20auspicious,longer%20days. |access-date=2024-12-07 |language=en-US}}</ref> In addition to [[Badrinath Temple]], devotees also visit local temples dedicated to different deities, such as the Rameshwar and Sult Mahadev temples. Other notable sites include Chitrashila and Hanseshwar, known for their religious importance on Utarayani day.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Uttarayani Fair: Uttarayani Fair |url=https://kumaon.gov.in/pages/display/88-uttarayani-fair |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=kumaon.gov.in}}</ref> The confluence of the Saryu and Gomti rivers is also considered a sacred location, where devotees perform ritualistic holy dips, believed to purify the soul and provide spiritual benefits.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sangeeta |date=2013-04-10 |title=Significance of the Holy Dip in Hinduism |url=https://lifeisavacation.in/2013/04/10/mystery-of-the-holy-dip/#:~:text=Ida,%20Pingala%20and%20Sushumna,to%20intuition.&text=in%20the%20Ajna%20Chakra,to%20intuition.&text=forehead%20between%20the%20brows),to%20intuition.&text=the%20point%20which%20opens,to%20intuition. |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=Life is a Vacation |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Ghughutiya/Makar Sankranti Festival of Uttarakhand |url=https://colorsofuttarakhand.com/festivals/ghughutiya-makar-sankranti/#:~:text=Taking%20a%20dip%20in,immense%20significance.&text=holy%20rivers,%20especially%20in,immense%20significance.&text=of%20the%20Ganges%20and,immense%20significance.&text=Bageshwar,%20is%20a%20ritual,immense%20significance. |access-date=2024-12-07 |language=en-US}}</ref>


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Revision as of 09:13, 8 December 2024

Uttarayani Fair
Uttarayani Mela
File:Uttarayani Fair.png
View of the Uttarayani Fair
StatusAnnually
Date(s)Starts on the Second week of January (around January 14); Peak: last 5 days
Location(s)Kumaon Division, Uttarakhand, India
Country India
ParticipantsHindu pilgrims
Attendance> 200,000
ActivityFolk music and dances; Exhibition of copper vessels, bamboo articles, carpets, blankets, and traditional food items.

The Uttarayani Fair, also known as the Uttarayani Mela, is an annual Fair celebrated in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India,[1] marking the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti. [2]This festival takes place in the second week of January, the most significant celebration occurs at Bageshwar, where the fair is held along the banks of the sacred Saryu and Gomti rivers, particularly at the Bagnath Temple.[3]

Etymology

The term "Uttarayani" comes from two Sanskrit words: Uttara, which means "north," and Ayana, which means "movement" or "path."[4] Uttarayani refers to the sun's northward journey as it moves from the Tropic of Capricorn to the Tropic of Cancer. ​This astronomical event signifies the end of the winter solstice and the start of longer days.​[5]

History

In 1921, Pandit Badri Dutt Pandey, a key leader from the Kumaon region associated with the Kumaun Parishad, visited the fair to mobilize local peasants against the oppressive begar system implemented by the British colonial administration.[6] [7]His speeches rallied community support for social justice and resistance. Mahatma Gandhi also recognized the fair's importance when he visited it in 1929. [8][9]

Legends and Folklores

One of the notable legends associated with the Uttarayani Fair involves Lord Shiva.[10]Local folklore suggests that the fair is celebrated at a location where it is believed that Lord Shiva once roamed as a tiger, [11]particularly in the vicinity of the sacred Saryu River. According to the locals, the sage Markandeya is thought to have prayed to Lord Shiva at this site, asking for blessings and guidance.[12][13]

Cultural Performances

Traditional dances during the fair

Folk artists perform traditional songs and dances, including chholiyas, Jhoras, Chancharis, and Bairas,[14]. In addition to musical performances, the fair showcases local cuisines, featuring festive dishes to the Uttarayani celebrations, such as the sweet delicacy Ghughute, which is specifically made for this occasion.[15]

Products

File:Carpets selling at the Uttarayani Fair.jpg
Merchants selling carpets at the Uttarayani Fair

During the Fair, a variety of goods are traded.[16]Local artisans showcase their skills, offering handcrafted products like pottery, bamboo baskets, and metalwork items.[17] These metalworks often include utensils, decorative objects, and traditional musical instruments made from iron, copper, and brass. Textiles are another major commodity at the fair. Merchants from distant regions, including Tibet and Nepal, bring a wide range of woolen products, such as blankets and durries.[18] Locally woven clothing items are also popular among buyers. A variety of food items, including pulses, seeds, and spices, sourced from the hilly regions are available for purchase.[19][20]

Locations

The Uttarayani fair is most prominently observed in the towns of Nainital, Haldwani, Almora, Pithoragarh, and Haridwar, as well as in smaller yet significant locales such as Bageshwar, Rameshwar, Sult Mahadev, Ranibagh, and Hanseshwar.​

Religious Sites

Bagnath temple during the Uttarayani Fair

The most prominent site during the Uttarayani Fair is the Bagnath Temple in Bageshwar,[21]which serves as the main venue for the fair and is recognized for its association with Lord Shiva.[22] In addition to Badrinath Temple, devotees also visit local temples dedicated to different deities, such as the Rameshwar and Sult Mahadev temples. Other notable sites include Chitrashila and Hanseshwar, known for their religious importance on Utarayani day.[23] The confluence of the Saryu and Gomti rivers is also considered a sacred location, where devotees perform ritualistic holy dips, believed to purify the soul and provide spiritual benefits.[24][25]

References

  1. ^ "Uttarayani fair in Bageshwar kickstarts with cultural splendour". The Times of India. 2024-01-15. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 2024-12-07.
  2. ^ Storytrails (2023-01-14). "Makar Sankranti: A Chronicle of Calendars". Storytrails. Retrieved 2024-12-08.
  3. ^ Nanda (2019-01-08). "Uttarayani Fair Bageshwar | Mythology, Event, Festival Info | Uttarayani Mela". www.euttaranchal.com. Retrieved 2024-12-07.
  4. ^ "What & When Is Uttarayan?". Dictionary.com. 2022-01-12. Retrieved 2024-12-08.
  5. ^ "The Significance of Uttarayana". isha.sadhguru.org. Retrieved 2024-12-08.
  6. ^ Pathak, Shekhar (2021-01-12). "A hundred years ago, a fiery speech in Uttarakhand escalated the protests against forced labour". Scroll.in. Retrieved 2024-12-06.
  7. ^ "Badri dutt Pandey's speech at the uttarayani fair in 1921". IndianCulturegov.in.
  8. ^ Tree, Kafal (2019-01-20). "Glimpses of Bageshwar Uttarayani Fair". Kafal Tree. Retrieved 2024-12-06.
  9. ^ "Gandhi's visit to kumaon in 1929". Indianculturegov.in.
  10. ^ "Himalayas, the Abode of Lord Shiva". Hindustan.com.
  11. ^ "Bagnath Temple, Bageshwar: A Spiritual Journey to Lord Shiva's Abode". helloprabhu.com. Retrieved 2024-12-07.
  12. ^ "Bagnath Temple Travel Guide 2024 | Bageshwar - Uttarakhand Guide". Uttarakhand State | Tourism Guide | Details of all places. Retrieved 2024-12-07.
  13. ^ "Temple dedicated to the lord shiva on the festive of Uttarayani fair". Uttrakhand Tourism.
  14. ^ "Uttarayani Festival in Uttarakhand - Popular Festival of Uttarakhand". www.tourmyindia.com. Retrieved 2024-12-07.
  15. ^ "All About Ghughutiya and Kumaon's Uttarayani Mela". Outlook India. 2022-01-15. Retrieved 2024-12-07.
  16. ^ "Bageshwar News: उत्तरायणी मेले में इस बार कम बिके हस्तशिल्पियों के उत्पाद". Amar Ujala (in Hindi). Retrieved 2024-12-07.
  17. ^ "History Of Uttarayani Fair". Issuu. Retrieved 2024-12-07.
  18. ^ "Uttarayani Fair: Uttarayani Fair". kumaon.gov.in. Retrieved 2024-12-07.
  19. ^ Nanda (2019-01-08). "Uttarayani Fair Bageshwar | Mythology, Event, Festival Info | Uttarayani Mela". www.euttaranchal.com. Retrieved 2024-12-07.
  20. ^ Bharat, E. T. V. (2023-01-20). "Bageshwar Uttarayani Mela: मेले में लगा विकास प्रदर्शनी, किसानों के उत्पादों ने लोगों का ध्यान खींचा". ETV Bharat News (in Hindi). Retrieved 2024-12-07.
  21. ^ "Bagnath temple at Bagnath". Uttarakhand Tourism.
  22. ^ ahlawat.vinod (2024-09-26). "Uttarayani Fair -". Retrieved 2024-12-07.
  23. ^ "Uttarayani Fair: Uttarayani Fair". kumaon.gov.in. Retrieved 2024-12-07.
  24. ^ Sangeeta (2013-04-10). "Significance of the Holy Dip in Hinduism". Life is a Vacation. Retrieved 2024-12-07.
  25. ^ "Ghughutiya/Makar Sankranti Festival of Uttarakhand". Retrieved 2024-12-07.