After the safe return of workers from the Silkyara Tunnel in Uttarkashi, a special celebration of “Egas” or “Old Diwali” was held today at the CM residence in Dehradun. Usually, in Uttarakhand, Egas is celebrated on the 11th day of Diwali, which is known as Ekadashi. However, due to the workers being stranded in the tunnel, CM Dhami had postponed the event at his residence.
Now, when the workers have returned safely, the celebration took place on Wednesday. CM Dhami enthusiastically participated in traditional folk games and danced to folk songs. The families of the workers were also present at the CM residence. He welcomed them by offering shawls and garlands. Cultural groups presented mesmerizing performances during the program. It is worth mentioning that in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, Diwali is celebrated as Bagwal, and in the Kumaon region, it is known as “Boodi Diwali.” On this day, sweet delicacies are prepared in the morning, and in the evening, after the worship of local deities, a bonfire is lit, followed by folk dances accompanied by drums and trumpets.
It is believed that when Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after defeating Lanka after 14 years, people celebrated his arrival by lighting diyas, thus marking the festival of Diwali. In the Garhwal region, people came to know about this tradition 11 days later. Hence, Egas is celebrated in Uttarakhand 11 days after Diwali. Interestingly, this festival is celebrated by playing Bhailo, a traditional game. Small bundles made of sesame seeds, hemp seeds, Hisar grass, and dried leaves of chir pine are bound with a special rope and called Bhailo. After performing prayers and applying a tilak to Bhailo, villagers gather at a common place to play Bhailo.
It is set on fire and rotated around. Many rural areas also showcase their skills with Bhailo. Traditional folk dances like Chanchadi, Jhumelos, Bhailo re Bhailo, Kakhadi ko Railu, Ujyalo Alo Andhero Bhaglu, and other folk songs are sung during the auspicious occasion of Mangal and the nightlong devotional jagar for the goddesses and gods.