Fairs and Festivals of Shimla
Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is a hub of cultural activities with numerous fairs and festivals celebrated throughout the year. These events showcase the rich traditions and community spirit of the region. Here are some of the most notable fairs and festivals in Shimla:
Taradevi Fair
- When: Ashtami in Navratras of Asawin (September-October).
- Where: Durga Devi Temple of Tara Devi, located on a ridge about 8 km from Shimla.
- Significance: The fair is held in honor of Goddess Durga. The temple was constructed by Raja Junga after having a vision of the goddess. Historically, Raja Junga used to sacrifice a male buffalo in the name of Durga during this fair.
Lavi Fair
- When: October-November.
- Where: Rampur-Bushahr.
- Significance: The word “Lavi” is derived from ‘Loe,’ meaning a sheet of woolen cloth. Historically, it was held twice a year in June and November, coinciding with the sheep shearing seasons. The fair, almost 300 years old, symbolizes the historic trade relations between Tibet and Kinnaur and has now been elevated to international status.
Ghund Fair
- When: Ashada (June-July).
- Where: Ghund, located 20 km from Theog and 12 km from Deha.
- Significance: Ghund was the capital of the Ghund state and is home to two temples of Mahasu and Shirgul. The fair is known for its archery competitions.
Buffalo Fair
- When: September.
- Where: Kufri, near Mashobra, Shimla.
- Significance: This fair is focused on the trading and showcasing of buffaloes.
Sipi Fair
- When: May.
- Where: Mashobra, Shimla.
- Significance: The fair includes cultural performances and religious rituals. Dum Devta of the Nehra area is also invited to this fair.
Purag Fair
- When: Either from 9th to 11th or from 11th to 13th Baishakh (April).
- Where: Kotkhai, Shimla.
- Significance: Held in honor of Mahadev Devta, who is ceremoniously bathed in the river Giri and brought back. The fair involves sending delicious food to sisters’ and daughters’ houses, and other deities like Nag Devta of Ghunda and Chaitra villages are also celebrated.
Pathar-Ka-Khel
- When: October-November.
- Where: Halog, Shimla.
- Significance: This unique fair involves people dividing into two groups and throwing stones at each other, a tradition that symbolizes various historical and cultural stories.
Nehru Jatar Fair
- When: April.
- Where: Rohru, Shimla.
- Significance: This fair is celebrated with traditional dances, music, and cultural activities.
Jorna Fair
- When: 14th-15th Baishakh (April).
- Where: Chaupal, Shimla.
- Significance: Held in honor of Shirgul Devta at Jorna village, this fair includes the traditional game of Thodo. It is a significant cultural event for the local community.
Thalog Fair
- When: End of Baishakh.
- Where: Pargana Jakholi, Chaupal.
- Significance: This fair honors Rahat-na Devta, with temples located at Thalog and Jabna. The presiding guest deity is Shirgul Devta of Jorna. It is believed that if the deities are offended, it will rain non-stop as a form of punishment, spoiling the fair.
These fairs and festivals not only highlight the cultural richness of Shimla but also offer a glimpse into the local traditions and community spirit that define this beautiful region.