Ashadh Fair 2025: Devotees Gather in Rampur, Himachal Pradesh to Pray for Rain Amid Heatwave and Drought

Ashadh Fair 2025: Devotees Gather in Rampur, Himachal Pradesh to Pray for Rain Amid Heatwave and Drought (ANI image)

In the picturesque hills of Rampur, Himachal Pradesh, the traditional Ashadh Fair 2025 was celebrated with vibrant devotion in Nogli village. Held annually to seek relief from drought and rising heatwaves, this three-day fair brings together locals and visitors in large numbers, hoping for divine blessings and rainfall during the scorching Ashadh month.

Ancient Rituals

Organised under the spiritual leadership of deity Lakshmi Narayan Kumasu, the fair is steeped in centuries-old traditions. Before the festivities begin, the deity embarks on a sacred parikrama (area tour) of the region. As the deity returns to Nogli, it is widely believed that rainfall begins naturally, offering much-needed relief from dry conditions.

Locals strongly believe that the moment the deity’s return procession begins, rainfall follows, regardless of prior weather conditions. Whether attributed to divine grace or nature’s timing, the start of the fair nearly always coincides with cooling showers—a phenomenon that has continued for generations.

Dev Milan and Cultural Festivities

The main attraction of the fair is the Dev Milan (divine gathering), where deities from nearby regions are ceremoniously invited to join the celebrations. People dress in traditional attire, and the air comes alive with folk dances, singing, and cultural performances led by local groups including Mahila Mandals. Women perform in colourful traditional costumes, adding vibrancy to the fairgrounds.

Residents from nearby towns and villages travel to Nogli to participate, and the fair also sees district-level participation, showcasing the deep cultural connection between faith and seasonal rituals in the region.

This year, as the region faced severe drought conditions, the fair’s timely rain was met with joy and gratitude. Locals like Krishna Gopal, from the organising committee, and Mahila Mandal leader Shakuntala Thakur, shared that the Ashadh Fair has always been associated with divine rainfall, uplifting spirits and offering a reprieve from the harsh summer.

The Ashadh Fair 2025 stands as a remarkable blend of faith, tradition, and environmental hope, reinforcing the enduring belief that devotion can move even the clouds.