PM Modi Celebrates Uttarakhand’s Igas Festival in Delhi

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PM Modi attended the Igas festival celebration hosted by Uttarakhand MP Anil Baluni, emphasising the government’s commitment to heritage preservation and the revival of traditional Uttarakhand festivals.

PM Modi Celebrates Uttarakhand's Igas Festival in Delhi

PM Modi Joins Igas Festival Celebrations in New Delhi:

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the Igas festival celebration hosted by Uttarakhand MP Anil Baluni in New Delhi.
  • Igas, a traditional festival of lights celebrated in Uttarakhand, received special acknowledgment from PM Modi, who extended his greetings to the people of Uttarakhand and the nation.
  • Through a social media post, he wished happiness, prosperity, and well-being to everyone during the festival.

Government’s Commitment to Heritage and Development:

  • PM Modi reiterated the government’s dedication to blending development with India’s rich cultural heritage.
  • He emphasised that Igas, once nearly forgotten, is now reviving as a symbol of faith and pride among Uttarakhand’s people.
  • Modi praised the people of Uttarakhand for their commitment to keeping the tradition alive, helping elevate the festival’s significance.

Igas Celebration Gains National Importance

  • PM Modi highlighted the widespread celebrations of Igas, marking the festival’s cultural importance and rejuvenation.
  • He expressed optimism that Uttarakhand’s heritage, symbolised by Igas, would continue to thrive as a lasting legacy.
  • BJP National President JP Nadda and Union Minister also attended the event, showing their support for the festival’s national recognition.

Understanding the Igas Festivel:

  • Festival Overview
  • Igas Bagwal, also known as Budhi Diwali or Harbodhni Ekadashi,
  • is celebrated in Uttarakhand, 11 days after Diwali.
  • Held on Kartik Shukla Ekadashi, it marks Lord Vishnu’s rest period ending, seen as an auspicious time for ceremonies.
  • Origins and Traditions
  • Origins link to delayed celebration of Lord Rama’s return and Madhav Singh Bhandari’s victory.
  • Key ritual includes Bhailo (torch play) to invoke blessings, along with cattle worship and sharing festive dishes.
  • Cultural Unity and Preservation
  • Symbolises Uttarakhand’s folk heritage, uniting communities through shared traditions.
  • Efforts by government and organisations aim to preserve the festival, promoting awareness and youth engagement.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times