Nine Kullu villages go silent for 42 days to appease deity

Residents of nine villages in Kullu district are observing a complete silence since Makar Sankranti to appease village deity Gautam Rishi. They will continue doing so for 42 days as part of an age-old tradition.

According to the villagers, during this period, they will keep their television and radio sets off and mobile phones in silent mode in keeping with the age-old tradition.

“It is believed that on the occasion of Makar Sankranti every year, Gautam Rishi leaves his abode to join the deity council in heaven. He stays there for 42 days. During this period, he meditates and the noise from the earth might disturb and displease him,” the villagers said.

Rakesh Thakur of Kothi village said, “To avoid deity’s wrath, residents of Goshal, Solang, Shanag, Kothi, Palchan, Ruar, Kulang, Majhach and Burua villages in the Ujhi valley of Kullu district strictly follow this age-old tradition every year. During these 42 days, they stay away from all types of entertainment. They also avoid crop cultivation and pruning of apple plants.”

“During that period, no puja is performed in the temple and it remains closed till the return of the deity. The temple is shut after spreading mud on the floor. It is believed that when the temple is reopened, if a flower is seen on the mud, it symbolises happiness for villagers. If charcoal is seen there, it indicates that the village will face some fire incident. The presence of grain indicates a good harvest,” said Chaman Lal, a resident of Goshal village.

“On the return of the deity after 42 days, the people of the nine villages will congregate on the temple premises, where a religious function will be held. The door of the deity’s temple will be opened and puja will be performed,” he added.