Halda Festival in Himachal Pradesh

Halda Festival is celebrated in the Lahaul district of Himachal Pradesh in the time of New Year. This festival held in the month of January for a period of two days. It is dedicated to 'Shashikar Apa', the deity of Wealth in the Lamaistic Pantheon. The actual date of the celebration is decided by the Lamas. They also choose the site where members from every household collect lit cedar twigs to form a bonfire. By this time Lahaul is fully covered with snow during.

The major attractions of the Halda Festival are family gatherings, dancing and heady cocktails. The festival is considered to be an occasion of private celebration and spending whole time with the family members. Basically it is more popular in the valleys along the rivers Chandra and Bhaga. The bonfire, which consists from every family, signifies the unity of the community. After being illuminated, it is dispersed at homes and community areas as good luck, happiness and hope.