PREM PRAKASH UPADHYAY/ Pithoragarh
The week-long Baurani fair and cultural festival in the Ram Mandir area of Berinag has begun on the auspicious occasion of Kartik Purnima on Wednesday in the presence of a large number of people. As per the age-old tradition, a pine bark-made 27-feet-long torch- brought from Pulai village- will be lit at midnight and taken around the Saim Devta shrine in a procession.
Following the inauguration of the fair by the Gangolihat block pramukh, Vinod Prasad, students from various schools and local artists presented cultural performances. The flaming torch and the temple procession are significant parts of this annual religious-cultural festival. The people here believe that a mere glance at this long torch brings happiness and prosperity. After completing seven circumambulations (parikramas) of the shrine, the torch is planted in the temple courtyard. They say they have no idea about the antiquity of this tradition. “It seems to be going on for centuries and we still believe that pleased with the sacred fire ritual known as Dangar Naurt, Saim Devta fulfils wishes of devotees,” said a local. “Not just the locals but people from neighbouring districts and even other States come to witness this spectacle,” he added.
This region is also known for its traditional crafts rich in beauty and longevity. Fibbers extracted from hemp are used to make ropes, swings, small mats, sieves and slippers. Stone quarries supply raw materials for several items, including grinding mills. Although the demand for these traditional items has been declining over time, locals say these crafts continue to provide them with a fair source of income.
A large number of traders from the region and neighbouring areas have set up stalls at the fair. They say they do good business during the festival week, given the large gathering of people from far and near.
Significantly, a decade ago, the Baurani Fair was infamously known as a ‘Gambling Fair’ where gamblers would gather to bet large sums of money. However, the gambling practices stopped thanks to the efforts of social activists. Then, the festival resumed in its original, pristine form.
The president of the organising committee, Rajendra Singh Bora ‘Shivji’, said that the government should step in to preserve and promote this festival. “It signifies the spiritual bond of the people,” he remarked, adding that the young people are increasingly getting involved in this fair.
