Deity Gauhari ties protective thread in Dhalpur, performs Devkhel

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Traditional rituals and nettle prasad performed as deity Gauhari seeks to protect devotees from evil forces during the Bhadon month.

Kullu, August 18

With the beginning of the Bhadon month, considered the “black month” in Himachal Pradesh, the deity Gauhari performed traditional rituals in Dhalpur to protect devotees from evil forces. A protective thread was tied across the area, while a Devkhel ritual was performed at Mahant Behad using nettle leaves.

Following the ritual, nettle was distributed among devotees as prasad. According to a local belief, keeping the sacred offering at home protects families from negative and evil forces. Rajkumar Mahant, Kardar of deity Gauhari, said the deity had been visiting the area since the previous day, blessing residents and offering protection. He said the deity performed the ritual at Mahant Behad on Tuesday and blessed devotees for their safety.

According to local tradition, Bhadon is associated with a symbolic battle between deities and evil forces. Deities narrate the outcome of this battle during their traditional gatherings towards the end of the month. The battle is believed to take place in the Gogradhar hills of Mandi district.

During Bhadon, several communities also traditionally avoid auspicious ceremonies. In some parts of Himachal Pradesh, newly married women return to their parental homes during the month and return to their in-laws’ homes after it ends.