The rich and diverse culture of Nagrota Bagwan is depicted by the daily activities of the local people. The beautiful city is not only known for its citrus fruits but also for its art and artifacts. The culture of the region is not only seen in the traditional attires of the people but also in their folk songs, various dance forms, fairs and festival celebrations.
Dances Forms in Nagrota Bagwan
The vivacious folk dances of Nagrota Bagwan are famous throughout India. Based on the mythological events of Mahabharata and Ramayana, these dances explore the ancient tales of local heroes and Deities. The Chamm Dance is the most prominent folk dance. Also known as the Dance of The Devil, it is performed by Lamas or Buddhist Monks in monasteries. Dangli is a common dance generally performed by men and women during marriage ceremonies. Jhali is a community dance performed at the time of harvest. Other folk dances of Nagrota Bagwan are Kayang, Bakayang, Jataru Kayang, Bnayangchu, Chohara, Jhanjhar and Jhoor.
Folk Songs in Nagrota Bagwan
Filled with melody, the folk songs are based on romance and religion. People form circular groups and sing songs that are generally based on folk stories of hilly regions. The musical instruments frequently used by the musicians are Karna, Ranasingha, Turhi, Ektara, Flute, Kindari, Manjara, Jhanjh, Chimta, Ghunghru and Ghariyal.
Festivals in Nagrota Bagwan
All major festivals of India like Dussehra, Holi and Diwali are celebrated in Nagrota Bagwan. People adorn themselves with new colorful clothes and relish the traditional food items prepared at homes. Apart from these, the significant festivals celebrated with enthusiasm are Chet, Bisowa, Shivratari and Nawala. Chet festival is a unique festival that is celebrated on the first day of the lunar year or the first day of the Chet month in order to bring prosperity and happiness at homes.
Fairs in Nagrota Bagwan
The Phagli fair is organized during Phagun that starts from February and lasts till March. It is held to remember the important incident of the assassination of the devil by God. Phagun marks the supremacy of good over evil.
Pahari Paintings in Nagrota Bagwan
Also known as the Kangra style of painting, the Pahari paintings are famous in Nagrota Bagwan. These paintings are quite similar to the Rajasthani and Malwa miniature school of paintings. Some of the popular themes used in these paintings are Geet Govind, Heer Ranjha, Sohni Mahiwal and Mirza Sahiba. However, Ramayana is the most prominent subject woven in the Pahari paintings.
Handicraft and Handloom in Nagrota Bagwan
The art and craft of Nagrota Bagwan is much influenced by Rajputana style. This is depicted in the hand woven sarees, carpets, woolen garments, caps, shawls and bed sheets. Rumal embroidery is a special kind of embroidery that is done on silk and muslin. These beautiful embroideries reveal the life of Shiva and Krishna. They are conventionally used during weddings. Pashmina shawls and Himachali caps are famous art works of the people. Other forms of craft prevalent in the region are woodwork, statuettes, clay pots, leather works and paintings. Bamboo items like chairs, baskets, boxes, sofas and racks are also made by the artisans of this region.
