Temple Committee Reaches Railakot Dulagaon for Selection of Kadli Trees; Villagers Express Enthusiasm
Almora.
Preparations have begun in full swing for Almora’s world-famous and historic Maa Nanda Devi Fair, renowned both in India and abroad. On Sunday, the Maa Nanda Devi Fair Committee traveled about seven kilometers from Almora town to Railakot’s Dulagaon to select the sacred kadli (banana) trees needed for the idol-making process.
During a meeting held in Dulagaon, the committee officials and local residents decided, as per traditional customs, that the kadli trees for making the idols of Maa Nanda and Maa Sunanda will once again be sourced from Dulagaon this year. Villagers assured their full support in organizing the fair.
Dates Announced
The committee informed that the fair will be held from August 29 to September 3. On August 29, the temple committee will visit Dulagaon to formally invite the kadli trees as per rituals. The following day, August 30, the trees will be ceremoniously carried to the Maa Nanda Devi Temple premises accompanied by traditional drums (dhol-nagada) and other folk instruments. The idol-making process will then begin, with local artisans crafting the idols using special techniques.
Statement of Committee President Manoj Verma
Committee President Manoj Verma said, “The Maa Nanda Devi Fair is a symbol of our faith, culture, and tradition. It is not just a religious event but also a celebration of social unity and cultural identity. This year, the fair will be organized on an even grander scale, with full adherence to all traditional customs, supported by the local community. Our aim is to connect future generations to this cultural heritage through the event.”
Villagers’ Statements
Village representative Bhagwan Singh Rawat said, “It is an honor for us that the kadli trees for Maa Nanda Devi’s idol come from our village. This tradition has been followed for generations, and we are proud to contribute wholeheartedly.”
Resident Vinita Rawat added, “For us, the fair is more than a festival. The whole village comes alive with joy and activity during these days. This year, we hope visitors from far and wide get to witness the true essence of our culture and traditions.”
Cultural and Religious Significance
The Maa Nanda Devi Fair holds immense importance not only from a religious perspective but also as a cultural and social gathering. Thousands of devotees from across Uttarakhand and beyond attend the fair each year. Events include traditional processions, folk songs, dances, and other cultural programs for the visitors.
Dignitaries and Committee Members Present
Those present at this significant meeting in Dulagaon included Committee President Manoj Verma, Administrator Anoop Sah, Secretary Manoj Sanwal, Fair Coordinator Councilor Arjun Singh Bisht, Councilor Amit Sah Monu, Councilor Kuldeep Mer, Councilor Abhishek Joshi, Harish Bhandari, Idol Coordinator Ravi Goyal, Rakshit Sah, Ravi Kannaujia, Gram Panchayat Member Kapil Malhotra, Ashish Bisht, Golu Bhatt, Pankaj Pargai, Dhan Singh Rawat, Dhirendra Singh Rawat, Pooran Singh Rawat, Gopal Singh Rawat, Pramod Singh Rawat, Hemant Singh Rawat, Yogesh Singh Rawat, Chandan Singh Rawat, Golu Rawat, Bhanu Rawat, Revati, Kamla Devi, Vikram Singh Rawat, Surendra Singh, Rekha Devi, and Saraswati Devi, along with a large number of villagers.
Both the villagers and committee members present expressed in unison that this year’s fair will be even more grand and captivating. With preparations moving swiftly, there is great anticipation that the number of devotees will surpass that of previous years.
