हिम महोत्सव – The Flavour of Himachal at Dilli-Haat

           

The CM Himachal - with  Chamba Dance Troupe 

                                                                 

      I always ask myself that what makes me love Himachal so much – the answer is simple – it’s Sahajta (simplicity) and Uniqueness – in its Crafts, Culture and Cuisine ( 3 C's) – through its people who are sweet, friendly, hospitable but firm for their traditions.

 Himachal is a North Indian state bordering Jammu & Kashmir, Laddakh, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Tibet. Its culture is an interesting blend of all these states and its own.  From rich Tribal culture of upper belts of Himachal which is heavily influenced by Tibetan culture to Kangra, Una, Bilaspur, Solan which have a strong influence of Punjab and Haryana. The central districts have their own culture with inputs from neighbouring districts.

What is noticeable in Himachal is that the entire village or district live their traditions on a day to day basis and are quite unaffected by external forces. They are proud of their rich traditions including their colourful dresses and jewellery and do not let go of  any occasion to wear them. Their passion reflects in their lifestyle, colourful festivals, music, dance and beautiful handicrafts.

 All these are at display in ‘हिम महोत्सव ' going on at  Dilli-Haat in Delhi from 16^th to 30^th December 2023. The show was inaugurated by the Chief Minister Himachal Sri Sukhvinder Singh Sukkhu along with Minister Industries Mr. Harshwardhan Chauhan and Minister RD Mr. Anirudh Singh. 

CM Sir interacting with artisans 

This is for the first time Himachal as a state is showcasing all aspects of its 'Craft, Culture and Cuisine'  for Dilli walas.

The state has taken 60 stalls for its artisans and have set up a big 'Food court' of Himachali cuisine along with decorating the entire Haat in Himachali style and colours. Many departments like Industries, Handicrafts, Rural Development, Science and Technology and Tourism have worked together to bring Himachal to Delhi

 The moment one enters the Dilli-Haat one can see Himachal everywhere.  Starting from the traditional wooden Dwar (Gate) and the mannequins in traditional Himachali attire at the entrance to many selfie points inside - showcasing different aspects of Himachal – from adventure Tourism to Eco-tourism to Craft and Culture.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               

 The huge Nagadas (musical instrument), the Narsinghas (musical instrument), the live Looms are the main attractions for the visitors. An open pavilion showcasing the famous products of each district of Himachal is a visual and intellectual treat. My heart swelled with pride when visitors were queuing up for getting themselves clicked in front of the selfie points and other attractions.

                                                                                    Prabodh, R.D. Nazeem (Secretary Industries) and Jatin (MD HimCraft) - the force behind Him Utsav 

                                        With the Officers and Spouses of Himachal Pradesh 

Now the question comes why should one visit Dilli-Haat to experience this ‘हिम महोत्सव’ ? I shall list the following -

 1-   To get a feel of Himachal Culture - the 'Devbhoomi' of India and to be part of the general Himachali ambience.

The Kilta (wooden basket for collecting many things) - used as a decoration

 

The Traditional dancers of Himachal 

The Himachal ambience showcasing the  Khaddi (Loom)

 2-   To get to know the unique Crafts of different districts of Himachal –

 Woollens - starting from pure authentic woollens in different shades and hues.  To see and desire the beautiful woven shawls of Kinnaur and Kullu with their unique weaved patterns. Woollen sweaters, socks, mufflers, woollen slippers, etc are other attractions. Kinnauri shawls is a GI product and worth possessing.

 Himachali Topi – In all colours – plain and weaved with dried flowers on top – a mark of Himachal.

 Handicrafts – Chamba Roomals, Metal work from Mandi, Kullu and Chamba, Chamba Chappals, Chamba Chukh, Miniature Paintings, Jewellery from Tribal areas, Stone work, Wood carvings from Kinnaur and Tribal areas, rugs and Carpets, Tibetan Thangkas and handicrafts, and much more.

 Handmade, Handpicked stuff – Aromatic soaps, Kangra and Kullu Teas, Aromatic and essential oils, Pickles, Jams and Murrabaas, HPMC juices and concentrate and many handmade herbal items  

                        

With Anuradha Thakur - both of us wearing Kinnauri Shawl and Stole

With musicians from Sirmour 

The Artisans of Himachal

3-        -  Delectable Cuisine – most dishes of Himachal emphasise on aroma with fresh spices. The dishes are according to the local traditions based on geographical conditions. The lower hills of Himachal have abundance of green vegetables and it reflects in their dishes. The higher regions depended mostly on grains and meat. Now, however, greens are available and eaten everywhere. 

In Him Mahotsav you can enjoy the Traditional Dhaam served in Traditional style. It has a different flavour and a set pattern of cooking and serving.

 Siddu – steamed stuffed bread – served with Ghee and spicy chutney – one of my favourite Himachali dishes. Many other Himachali Snacks – some made of Millets as well and many traditional beverages.                                  Mr Amit Kashyap (MD Tourism) and Chef Nand Lal Sharma                                Himachali Dhaam 

                               The Traditional Cooks - Boti - and the Tourism Staff 

The traditional way of eating Dhaam

 

With Himachali Officers and wives - enjoying Dhaam 

It is quite endearing to see how the rich and diverse culture of Himachal has remained untouched since ages with little bit of modifications to suit the changing times. They have been able to retain their vibrancy and spirit in their varied cultural elements even in modern times.

Girls in traditional Bharmouri dresses

 Now comes the most important question- Why am I writing a Blog on ‘हिम महोत्सव’? After all showcasing of a state is not new to Dilli-Haat. Many states do it. There are many other exhibitions in national capital as well.

 Well - I am excited as I love Himachal and it is being showcased like this for the first time at Dilli-Haat. 

Also it is winters -  hence  I am informing all to have a beautiful winter shopping of woollens and other attractive handicrafts. Interact with the artisans, encourage their art, get to know them and their stories.

In addition enjoy the traditional dances – especially Natti (the line Dance of Himachal) and the music of traditional musical instruments. Also to  get to know 'Himachal' as you might have not done till now - that too in Delhi.

And  lastly- click lots of picture and create memories with family and friends.😁😁

The traditional Dwar (door) of Him Utsav