Archive · 28 Aug 2026
Uttarakhand’s Bagwal Fair Uses Fruits, Flowers on Raksha Bandhan
Bagwal is a special traditional event held at Maa Varahi Dham in Uttarakhand.
It takes place during the Raksha Bandhan festival.
Four groups, called Khams, take part in the event.
They wear different colors and carry shields made from bamboo.
In the past, people reportedly threw stones during the ritual.
Today, they throw fruits and flowers instead.
The event lasted for about eight minutes.
Afterward, the participants embrace one another to show discipline and brotherhood.
The Bagwal fair was held at Maa Varahi Dham in Devidhura, Champawat, on Raksha Bandhan.
Participants from four Khams—Walik, Chamyal, Gahadwal and Lamgadiya—entered the arena after prayers.
The ritual began around 2 p.m. and lasted eight minutes.
Participants used fruits and flowers instead of stones while carrying bamboo and ringal shields.
Devotees say the ancient ritual honors Maa Varahi, with participants embracing after the event as a symbol of brotherhood.
- Who
- Participants from the four Khams—Walik, Chamyal, Gahadwal and Lamgadiya—took part, along with devotees and temple officials.
- What
- The Bagwal ritualistic battle was held using fruits and flowers instead of stones.
- When
- Friday, August 28, during Raksha Bandhan; the event began around 2 p.m. and lasted eight minutes.
- Where
- In the courtyard of Maa Varahi Dham Shaktipeeth in the Devidhura area of Champawat district, Uttarakhand.
- Why
- According to devotees, the ancient ritual is performed to appease and honor goddess Maa Varahi.
- Location
- Maa Varahi Dham Shaktipeeth, Devidhura, Champawat district, Uttarakhand
- Occasion
- Raksha Bandhan
- Participants
- Four Khams: Walik, Chamyal, Gahadwal and Lamgadiya
- Start time
- Around 2 p.m.
- Duration
- Eight minutes
- Materials used
- Fruits, flowers, bamboo shields and ringal hill bamboo
- Traditional change
- Fruits and flowers are now used instead of stones