The Harela Festival, a vibrant and culturally significant celebration, holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Uttarakhand, India. Observed primarily in the Kumaon region, Harela marks the onset of the monsoon and symbolises prosperity, happiness, and the renewal of life. This festival, rooted in agrarian traditions, is celebrated with rituals, songs, dances, and community activities that reflect the deep connection between the people and nature. On this day, people share Harela 2024 Wishes, Greetings, HD Images, Messages and Wallpapers.

In recent years, Harela has also gained prominence as an environmental festival. Various organisations and community groups undertake tree-planting drives, emphasising the importance of conserving the environment and promoting afforestation. Schools and colleges organise events to educate the younger generation about the significance of preserving nature.

Harela, which means "day of green," is celebrated three times a year, each marking the beginning of a new season. However, the most prominent celebration occurs in the month of Shravan (July-August), heralding the arrival of the monsoon. This period is crucial for agriculture, as it signifies the start of the sowing season. Harela embodies the hopes and prayers for a bountiful harvest and prosperous times ahead. Harela 2024 Date, History and Significance: Here's What You Should Know About Uttarakhand's 'Day of Green' Festival.

The preparations for Harela begin ten days prior to the festival. Families sow seeds of five to seven types of grains such as barley, maize, and pulses in small baskets filled with soil. These baskets are kept in a dark place, symbolising the nurturing of new life. On the day of Harela, the sprouted seedlings, known as Harela, are harvested and used in various rituals.

On the day of the festival, the harvested Harela is worshipped, and the sprouted grains are placed on the heads of family members, especially the younger ones, as a blessing for their growth and prosperity. The elders of the family recite prayers and bless the younger generation, ensuring the continuation of the tradition and the values it represents.

Despite the modernisation and urbanisation, the essence of Harela remains intact. The festival has adapted to contemporary times, with urban dwellers finding innovative ways to keep the tradition alive. Social media platforms are used to share Harela greetings, photos, and stories, connecting people across different regions and spreading awareness about the festival. On this day, we share Harela wishes and greetings with your loved ones. Below are some of the beautiful choices:

Happy Harela Wishes and Messages

Happy Harela (File Image)

Happy Harela Wishes and Messages

Happy Harela (File Image)

Happy Harela Wishes and Messages

Happy Harela (File Image)

Happy Harela Wishes and Messages

Harela Greetings (Photo Credits: Sakshi Dhoni/Instagram)

Happy Harela Wishes and Messages

Harela Greetings (Photo Credits: Sakshi Dhoni/Instagram)

Harela is more than just a festival; it is a celebration of life, nature, and tradition. It reflects the harmonious relationship between humans and nature, highlighting the importance of sustainable living and environmental conservation. This vibrant festival, with its deep-rooted significance and joyous celebrations, continues to be a beacon of cultural pride and environmental awareness in Uttarakhand and beyond.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 16, 2024 11:24 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).