DISCOVER THE RICH CULTURE OF
DEVBHOOMI UTTARAKHAND
Culture of Uttarakhand - Traditions, Festivals and More
Uttarakhand is known for its beautiful Garhwali and Kumaoni culture. The various traditions, religions, fairs, festivals, folk dances, music are what distinctly separate them.
- The official language is Hindi
- Hindustani, Garhwali, Kumauni, Punjabi, and Nepali are also spoken
- More than four-fifths of Uttarakhand’s residents are Hindu
Top places in uttarakhand
Culture of Uttarakhand
Culture refers to traits, predominating attitudes and behaviour that set apart the functioning of a group or community of people. There are many factors that influence the culture of any particular region. History, religion, national or regional identity and geography are major attributes which play a key role in the evolution of any culture. Cultural development of a place largely depends on where it is situated. The culture of Uttarakhand displays considerable variety. There has been an evident amount of cultural diffusion in this area owing to it being a part of Uttar Pradesh for a long time. Hence, one can see both, the long-cherished traditions being preserved by the natives, along with a few influence from the migrants settled.
Kumaoni Culture
The people of Kumaon speak 13 dialects including Kumaiya, Gangola, Soryali, Sirali, Askoti, Danpuriya, Johari, Chaugarkhyali, Majh Kumaiya, Khasparjia, Pachhai and Rauchaubhaisi. This group of languages is known as the group of Central Pahari languages. Kumaon is also rich in its folk literature which comprises myths, heroes, heroines, bravery, Gods, Goddesses and the characters drawn from Ramayana and Mahabharatha. The most popular dance form of Kumaon is known as Chhalaria and it is related to the martial traditions of the region. All the festivals are celebrated with a lot of enthusiasm and witness such traditional dance forms even today.
KUMAON DIVISON
Garhwali Culture
GARHWAL DIVISION
Food Of Uttrakhand
The food of Uttarakhand is dominated by Garhwali cuisine and Kumaoni cuisine, two of its main regions. The dishes are simple and locally grown without being dominated by complex spices. Some of the most famous dishes of Uttarakhand are cooked over a slow fire and consists of lentils. Some of the most delicious mouth-watering specialities of Uttarakhand include-
- Urad Dal ke pakode which are spicy pakoras prepared from different pulses.
- Phanu made from dals
- Jhangore ki kheer which is a sweet dish prepared with Jhangora.
- Chainsoo which is made from black gram dal.
- Bhang ki chutney which is a sour-tasting chutney prepared from roasted bhang and cumin seeds mixed with lemon juice.
Art & Craft of Uttarakhand
Apart from tourism and agriculture the livelihood of the people of Uttarakhand depends on creating quirky and traditional arts and craft. You can get anything from weaved baskets, chairs, wall hangings, decorative items etc. one must make it a point to get at least 1 thing from here in order to show your support to the local businesses here. The traditional way of getting things made here are now becoming a worldwide phenomenon and people come here to admire the talent and hard work of the people who make these idyllic and pretty things.
Traditional Dresses Of Uttarakhand
Residents of Garhwal Hills have their own pattern of wearing clothes due to the cold weather of the place as a result of which, wool obtained from sheep or goat is used to prepare woollen clothes.
Traditional Dress Of Men
Almost everyone follows a similar dressing style. The most commonly worn lower garment is either a Dhoti or a Lungi. Various coloured Kurtas are worn as the upper garment. In addition, headgear or a turban is a must add-on to complete this traditional costume. Kurta-Pyjama is another very famous alternative for the men of Uttarakhand. Women, as well as men, wear woollen jackets as well as sweaters in the winter season.
Traditional Dress Of Women
Ghagri is a long skirt that is worn by mostly all the women of Uttarakhand. It is complemented with a beautiful coloured Choli which is an Indian blouse and a cloth covering the head i.e., an Orni. This Orni is generally fixed firmly to the waist. This is the traditional dress of the women of both Garhwalis as well as Kumaonis. Ghagra-Pichora is the traditional bridal costume of the Kumaoni women which is similar to the Ghagra Lehenga-Choli. Pichora is a Kumaoni covering (more like a veil) that is decorated with gold and silver embroidery.
Languages and Literature
Uttarakhand is home to several indigenous communities that speak different languages and dialects. The most widely spoken language in the state is Hindi, which is also the official language. However, there are several regional languages spoken in Uttarakhand, including Garhwali, Kumaoni, and Jaunsari. These languages have their own literature, which includes folk tales, songs, and poetry. Many of these literary works are centred around the region’s natural beauty and its cultural heritage, making them an important part of the state’s cultural identity..
Heritage
Garhwali Folk Music and Dance
Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra
Chipko Movement
Baithaki Holi
Aipan Art
MAP OF UTTARAKHAND
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Uttarakhand is thus a hub of different traditions, ethnic groups and languages brought together. This is what brings out the beauty of the state. Do plan a visit to the wondrous state and we are sure each one of you is likely to have an amazing time.
Conclusion
Uttarakhand is a culturally rich and diverse state in India. From the iconic temples of Char Dham to the serene beauty of Nainital, Uttarakhand has something for everyone. The state is also home to a number of unique traditions, such as the Kumaoni wedding ceremony, which is a must-see for any visitor.
What is special about Uttarakhand culture?
The culture of Uttarakhand still revolves around its traditional ethics, moral values, the simplicity of nature and a rich mythology. and the rich mythology. Like their simple lifestyle, the festivals and fairs in Uttarakhand are also simple yet culturally rich
What are the main traditions of Uttarakhand?
Uttarakhand is known for its unique Kumaoni and Garhwali traditions. What sets them apart are the different customs, faiths, fairs, festivals, folk dances, and music.
What is the heritage of Uttarakhand?
Considered the patron goddess of the Kumaon area, Nanda Devi is worshipped at the historic Nanda Devi Temple in Almora, Uttarakhand. The temple, whose beginnings are thought to go back more than a millennium, is a symbol of the area’s rich spiritual and cultural legacy.
What are the main cultural features of Uttarakhand?
The main cultural features of Uttarakhand include its traditional values, simple lifestyle, connection to nature, and rich mythology. The state is known for its folk songs, dances, fairs, and festivals, which reflect its diverse heritage.