Bageshwar. The mountains of Uttarakhand are facing the problem of migration. Farms and barns are becoming barren, villages are turning into ruins, and wild animals are now roaming in these desolate places. But the villagers of Garuda’s Devnai valley of Bageshwar, along with women, have found a new way to deal with this problem. The villagers here started a program called ‘Kirsan Mahotsav’, which is not only an effort to stop migration but also to connect the young generation with their roots.
This festival highlights the contribution of women and the importance of rural life. At the center of this program are village women, who demonstrate their proficiency in grass cutting, animal husbandry, and rural knowledge. The festival is organized in three phases. In the first phase, women are involved in this festival by going from village to village. Various competitions take place in the second phase. Like grass cutting competition.
This year, 300 women participated in the competition to cut the most grass in 2 minutes, out of which 24 women reached the final stage. In December, winners will be selected on the basis of these women’s knowledge of animal care and rural environment. The woman securing first place in the competition will be given a prize of Rs 15,000, the second place winner will be given Rs 12,000, and the third place winner will be given a prize of Rs 10,000. All other participants are also given consolation prizes.
Dr. Kishan Rana, who is one of the main organizers of this festival, says that ‘Kirsan Mahotsav’ was started in 2016. It is organized with the cooperation of 10 gram panchayats. This initiative not only appreciated the work of women but also united the rural community. Champa Devi, who participated in this festival, says, “We wait for this festival the whole year. By winning the competition, we not only get respect but also get proper evaluation of our hard work. Khimuli Devi said, “I had never thought of a competition based on tasks like grass cutting and animal husbandry. But this program has made even these works a matter of pride.”
‘Kirsan Mahotsav’ not only recognizes the hard work of women but is also becoming a means to stop migration and fill the villages with enthusiasm. People come from far and wide to see this unique event, which also promotes rural tourism. This small effort of the villagers has proved that no matter how big the problem is, it can be solved with collective will and innovation. ‘Kirsan Mahotsav’ is not only an event, but it is an example of saving the culture and traditions of Uttarakhand.
Tags: Bageshwar News, Uttarakhand news
FIRST PUBLISHED : December 2, 2024, 9:12 PM IST
