Nandashtami on September 19; traditional processions, folk performances and cultural heritage to take centre stage
Almora:
The historic Maa Nanda Devi Mahotsav-2026, one of Uttarakhand’s most significant religious and cultural festivals, will be celebrated from September 15 to September 23, with the grand immersion procession of Maa Nanda-Sunanda scheduled for September 23. Nandashtami will be observed with traditional rituals and religious ceremonies on September 19, committee secretary Manoj Sanwal announced.
Committee president Manoj Verma said efforts are being made to invite Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami to inaugurate the festival. The committee also expressed hope that, as in 2025, the state government would declare a public holiday on the occasion of Nandashtami.
The festival, renowned for its ancient traditions, tantric rituals and deep religious significance, attracts thousands of devotees from across India and abroad every year. Folk artists from Kumaon and Garhwal will showcase Uttarakhand’s rich cultural heritage through traditional music and dance performances, while the sacred Devi Avataran ceremony will remain one of the major attractions.
Chief Coordinator Tara Joshi said that, for the first time, a collective performance of Kumaoni traditional folk musical instruments will be organised to promote the state’s cultural heritage and inspire the younger generation to connect with their roots.
The committee appreciated the state government’s efforts under the Temple Garland Project for the beautification and development of the Nanda Devi Temple complex. It appealed to devotees from India and abroad to participate in the festival and seek the blessings of Maa Nanda-Sunanda while celebrating Uttarakhand’s rich spiritual and cultural traditions.
