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Himachal is a land of
magnificent traditions and colorful festivals. Right from food to dresses
everything includes a part of cultural living. Though village life in
various parts of Himachal is also affected by the constant speed and
sudden changes with lifestyles yet they maintain their cultural integrity.
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The customs
and rituals practiced in this region of Himachal depict the
lifestyle of the natives living in harmony with Nature. Himachal is
known as DEV BHOOMI where there is tradition of people to
honor deities, holy spirits, sages, snake gods and other powerful
gods and goddesses mentioned in ancient Indian scriptures. Almost
every village has beautiful temples dedicated to these
deities.
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The Himachalis
hold well known gods and goddesses of the Hindu traditions, but
their ties with local deities are more close. |
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The institution of
village gods is common factor in Himachal. All customs revolve
around local deities. |
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Right from the
origin of manifestation of a particular god or goddess, the Gur, the
oracle who is the interpreter of the divinity, relates the whole
story of the powers, miracles and curses inflicted by him from time
to time. Filled with the power (Shakti) of the deity, the Gur shakes
his body and goes into a trance before the audience uttering
something in an unusual manner, sometimes in an unknown language, as
if the deity itself is speaking. |
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Buddhism in Himachal Pradesh holds
considerable influence in Manali,
Kullu,
north-eastern parts of Lahaul And
Spiti
and Kinnaur. The Buddhist Monasteries has assured an era of
socio-cultural resurgence in the region
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Most people in the Himalayas sustain
themselves by a combination of agriculture and animal husbandry.
Until very recently, tourism and other developmental activities have
started taking important aspect in Himalayan life. |
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The life
and social values of Himachal people are in harmony with nature.
They practice a lifestyle in which concepts like equity,
sustainability, community participation etc. are deep rooted. They
do not only understand
but also implement these concepts in their day to day activities.
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India's Finest handicrafts |
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