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Key Points

The Ashadh fair in Nogli, Himachal Pradesh, is a centuries-old tradition believed to bring rain during droughts. Led by deity Lakshmi Narayan Kumasu, the fair features Dev Milan and cultural performances. Locals celebrate as rain follows the deity's return, offering relief from extreme heat. Women from Mahila Mandals add to the festivities with traditional dances.

Key Points: Himachal's Ashadh Fair in Rampur Brings Rain Amid Drought

  • Three-day Ashadh fair led by deity Lakshmi Narayan Kumasu
  • Rain follows deity's return, breaking drought
  • Dev Milan and traditional plays attract crowds
  • Women dance in traditional costumes during celebrations
2 min read

Himchal Pradesh: People celebrate Ashadh fair in Rampur to seek relief from drought and heat

Devotees celebrate the centuries-old Ashadh fair in Nogli, Himachal, as rain follows the deity's return, offering relief from drought and heat.

"As soon as the deity starts returning, the clouds begin to rain naturally. – Krishna Gopal, Fair Organiser"

Rampur, June 30

The Ashadh fair is organised to seek relief from extreme heat and drought in the village of Nogli in Himachal Pradesh's Rampur.

As soon as the fair starts, the clouds begin to rain naturally; meanwhile, Dev Milan is the main attraction during the fair. The three-day Ashadh fair is celebrated under the leadership of the deity Lakshmi Narayan Kumasu.

Before the fair, the deity Laxmi Narayan Kumsu goes on a tour of the entire area. As soon as the deity starts returning to Nogli, the clouds also begin to pour rain naturally.

During this district-level fair, the deities of the surrounding area also make their presence felt. The main attraction of the fair is Dev Milan, and traditional plays remain the centre of attraction. People from far-off places come to Nogali for the dance and singing, and the fair lasts for three days.

The people of the region eagerly await the Ashadh fair because it is certain that as soon as the fair begins, regardless of the drought, the clouds start to rain. Call it faith in God or the grace of nature, it rains heavily as soon as the fair starts. This not only gives relief to the people from drought, but also from the heat.

Krishna Gopal of the fair organising committee said that the Ashadh fair of Nogli has been celebrated for centuries. As soon as the deity starts returning after visiting the area, the clouds also begin to rain.

He said that during this time, a drought situation prevailed in the area. As soon as the deity comes from the Parikrama towards Nogli, it starts raining. In this happiness, a series of fairs begins in the area.

Shakuntala Thakur of Mahila Mandal Nogali stated that the Nogali fair has been held since ancient times. The deities of the region are also invited to this fair.

The people of the region are delighted by the arrival of the deities, and a round of singing and dancing follows. People are happier about the Ashadh fair because there is a drought situation, and they get relief from the heat due to the rain clouds.

Happy Soni said that this time the fair was quite grand. People enjoyed it a lot. During the fair, women from Mahila Mandals also danced in their traditional costumes. Overall, people thoroughly enjoyed this fair.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
While the cultural aspects are fascinating, I wonder if there's any scientific explanation for the rain coinciding with the fair dates? Maybe the timing aligns with monsoon patterns? Still, the tradition is beautiful.
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Priya S
My nani used to say "Bhagwan ke ghar der hai, andher nahi" - God may delay but never denies. This fair proves it! The rain brings so much joy and relief to farmers. Jai Lakshmi Narayan! 🌧️🙌
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Aman W
We need to preserve these traditions. In cities we're losing touch with our roots. The Dev Milan and traditional plays must be amazing to watch live. Anyone know exact dates for next year's fair?
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Kavya N
The women dancing in traditional costumes must be such a vibrant sight! Himachali culture is so rich. Hope the tourism department promotes this more - would love to see proper arrangements for visitors without disturbing the sanctity.
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Vikram M
While the faith aspect is touching, we must also think about water conservation. Relying only on rains isn't enough these days with climate change. Maybe the fair committee can start awareness campaigns too?

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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