Rakashabandhan in Uttarakhand's Kumaon region has a unique attraction, an age old custom of stone fight which has now got a fruity twist.
Enthusiastic spectators climb the rooftops and occupy the temple steps to watch the 'Bagwal' (fight) as zealous Ranbankuras, sporting headbands and carrying huge bamboo shields, pour into the Dubachaur field in front of Barahi Devi temple with their ammunition to please a local deity.
But the stones have gradually been replaced by fruits and flowers after the authorities, a few years back, banned stones due to injuries during the event which is held in Champawat district's Devidhura village.
The Bagwal has its origins in mythology, said Hemlata Joshi, an elderly resident of the area.
"It is believed that the land of Devidhura village belonged to Goddess Barahi. With the passage of time, four clans or Khams started using it for cultivation. The Khams were named Balig, Chamyal, Gaharwal and Lamgharia."
Kirti Shastri, the head priest of the Barahi Devi Temple said,"When Lord Vishnu reincarnated in twelve avatars in order to save the world, Goddess Laxmi also reincarnated as his wife. The unification of her twelve avatars resulted in the form of Barahi Devi."
Disclaimer: No Business Standard Journalist was involved in creation of this content