Harela is a Hindu festival celebrated basically in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand state of India and some regions of Himachal Pradesh. It is also called Hariyali or Rihyali. Harela is celebrated thrice every year; the first two celebrations are during both the periods of Navrati – first during Chaitra Navrati in the month of Chaitra, and second during Sharad Navratri in the month of Ashwin. This is followed by Bhaitauli or Bhitauli wherein gifts are given to girls of the family. The Shravan Harela is celebrated as the first day (Kark Sankranti) of the Hindu calendar month of Shravan (late July). It is also symbol for the onset of rainy season (Monsoon) as Harela literally means “Day of Green”. Agriculture-based communities in the region consider it highly auspicious, as it marks the beginning on the sowing cycle in their fields. They pray for a good harvest and prosperity.
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