Chamba, Himachal Pradesh: The remote tribal region of Pangi Valley in Chamba district has come alive with tradition and devotion as the historic Khouul Festival—locally known as Chajgi—commenced on Sunday amid heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures.
Wrapped in a pristine white blanket of snow, the valley is witnessing a vibrant festive revival. With the beginning of Khouul, joy and celebration have returned to every household across Pangi.
Ancient Belief and Sacred Rituals
The festival is rooted in an age-old belief. According to local elders, winter months are believed to be dominated by evil spirits or negative forces. Khouul is celebrated to drive away these forces and restore peace and prosperity to the region.
Following special prayers in various panchayats, residents carried flaming torches from their homes on Sunday evening. It is believed that the light of these torches dispels evil spirits. Villagers also paid tribute to their ancestors, praying for prosperity and well-being.
Celebrations Begin from Border Village
The festival traditionally begins from Sural, the last village of Pangi located near the Jammu border. The celebration gradually spreads across the valley. Villages such as Sural, Dharwas, and Luj had observed the festival nearly a month ago, while headquarters Killar, Mindhal, Sach, Kumar, Parmar, Phindru, and Kulal marked the occasion this week with great enthusiasm.
Dressed in vibrant traditional attire, villagers gathered to celebrate the festival with cultural pride and unity.
Jukaru Festival Next in Line
Inder Singh, a disciple of the deity of Sach Panch Nag, informed that fifteen days after Khouul begins, Pangi’s biggest and most awaited festival, Jukaru Festival, will commence—an event eagerly awaited throughout the year.
Meanwhile, festive feasts are underway across the valley. Traditional dishes such as mande, halwa, puri, rice, kadhi, and dal are being prepared in every home.
MLA Extends Greetings
Dr. Janak Raj, MLA from Bharmour-Pangi constituency, extended warm greetings to the people of Pangi through social media, wishing prosperity and happiness on the occasion of Khouul festival.
As snow continues to blanket the valley, the glow of torches and the warmth of tradition have once again united the resilient people of Pangi in celebration.
