States PCS: Uttarakhand GK for UKPSC Exams

Notes:
Bhakaar is a traditional Uttarakhand structure for storing food grains. It protects grains from moisture and pests. This method helps preserve agricultural produce in the mountainous climate. The practice supports seasonal farming communities by providing long-term storage solutions.

Notes:
Om Parvat is located in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, near the India–Nepal–Tibet border. It is part of the Kumaon Himalayas and is known for the snow pattern resembling the sacred Hindu symbol “Om.” The region is a pilgrimage route for Kailash–Manasarovar and Adi Kailash journeys, attracting devotees and trekkers.

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Maya Devi is the presiding deity of Haridwar and the city was historically called Mayapuri after her. The Maya Devi Temple is one of the three ancient Siddh Peethas in Haridwar.

Notes:
The Jagar ritual involves invoking gods and ancestor spirits through singing and drumming. It is traditionally practiced in the hilly regions of Uttarakhand, especially in Kumaon and Garhwal. This ritual is linked to the folk religion of Uttarakhand and not customarily observed in Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, or Assam.

Notes:
Harela is an agrarian festival of Uttarakhand’s Kumaon region marking monsoon and sowing season. It involves worshipping nature and praying for the health and welfare of children. The festival promotes environmental values like tree plantation and ecological balance.

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The Somnath Temple is located in Prabhas Patan, Veraval, Gujarat. The Somnath fair, also called Kartik Purnima Fair, occurs annually in November-December at this temple. It attracts many pilgrims and features joy rides, food stalls, and flea markets. The temple is near the Arabian Sea coast in Gujarat, about 79 km from Junagadh and 25 km from Chorwad.

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Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra is a major pilgrimage in Uttarakhand held approximately every 12 years. Historical records indicate major yatras in 1843, 1863, 1886, 1905, 1925, 1951, 1968, 1987, 2000, and a postponed event in 2014. This festival is organized on a grand scale once every 12 years and is known as the Himalayan Kumbh.

Notes:
Garhwal painting, a Pahari miniature tradition from Uttarakhand, gained modern recognition through Mukundi Lal. His book “Garhwal Painting” documented and promoted this art form. The tradition developed from the late 17th century with influences from Mughal and Rajput styles.

Notes:
Pithoragarh district hosts the Hijyatra festival linked to paddy transplantation. It is celebrated in Kumaon’s Pithoragarh region, including villages like Kumor and Satgaarh. The festival features dances such as Hiran Chittal and Mahakali and relates to the historical victory of Champawat rulers.

Notes:
Bhanta-Santa is a traditional folk song of Uttarakhand classified as an entertainment song. It is sung mainly for leisure and enjoyment, distinct from ritualistic or patriotic songs.