On Tuesday, Chief Minister of Uttarakhand celebrated the traditional festival of Egas with simplicity at his official residence. The event was marked by a prayer ceremony, followed by the recitation of Sundarkand to pray for peace, prosperity, and well-being across the state. The Chief Minister performed the Bhelo ritual, an integral part of Egas, and joined in playing traditional drums, dhol and damau.
Extending his wishes to all residents on this occasion, the Chief Minister emphasized the importance of preserving Uttarakhand’s rich traditions and folk culture. He remarked that the entire state was enthusiastically celebrating Egas. He also expressed gratitude for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s warm greetings to the people of Uttarakhand on this festival, noting the PM’s deep connection to the state and commitment to promoting its culture and festivals.
Highlighting the significance of folk traditions, the Chief Minister mentioned that Egas holds a special place in the cultural heritage of Uttarakhand. To enhance public participation, a state holiday on Egas was declared in recent years. The CM had also urged members of the Uttarakhand diaspora during the recent Pravasi Uttarakhandi Sammelan to return to their villages and celebrate the festival with their communities.
Referring to the state’s recent Foundation Day celebrations, the Chief Minister recalled the PM’s appeal to Uttarakhand residents to preserve their native languages and reconnect with their roots. This Egas, he said, reinforces that commitment to preserve local dialects, traditions, and village ties.
The event was attended by prominent figures, including Cabinet Minister Premchand Agarwal, Union Minister of State Ajay Tamta, Padma Shri awardee Pritam Bhartwan, and several others.
