Sirkha village, the centre point of Chaudans valley of Pithoragarh is all set for the Kangdali festival in early October. Kangdali is a herb, Strobilanthes wallichii, which flowers once in 12 years. This bushy herb was once said to be used by attacking Zorawar army of Ladakh to hide from the villagers. The women folk of the village found these soldiers and drove them away by striking the bush with sticks. The incident is still remembered during the festival when women beat and destroy the bushy herb, at least symbolically. 
The Chaudans valley consists of erstwhile 14 villages in Dharchula tehsil of Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, India, which now have split and increased in number. Sosa, Sirdhang, Sirkha, Pangu, Himkhola, Chalmachilason, Pulnabhatka, Rung, Samri, Kurila, Bangpa, Jaikot, Shankhola, Gipti, Tankul, etc. are the major places of importance in this valley.Most of the population belongs to the Rung community. This valley falls in the traditional route to Kailas Mansarovar trek route through Indian territory.
Sir, this is precious traditional information. Thanks for the lovely description of the festival.
ReplyDeleteVimal