When demons are worshipped in Kullu

Kullu, March 4 (ANI): People from different parts of Himachal Pradesh thronged Kullu in Chachogi District to participate in a unique fair in which both-the Gods and demons-are worshipped.

The weeklong annual fair locally known as 'Kotlu' is held to celebrate the legendry mythological accord reached between Gods and demons.

According to the agreement, the demons demanded that they should be worshipped at least once in a year, and in return, they would not disturb their meditation or harm human beings. So, 'Kotlu' is celebrated to make the demons happy.

Legend has it that the Gods tricked a demon into marrying an ordinary girl after they had agreed to his marriage with a Goddess to placate the demons.

However, in Kullu, the occasion is marked in the form of an act presented by four men dressed as demons and four men dressed as Gods. The demons are covered with green leaves and wear grotesque masks, after which ordinary people are not allowed to either touch them or talk to them. Men covered with flowers play as Gods.

The attire and masks worn on this occasion are said to be quite olden.

"The festival is celebrated from ancient times, nobody knows the exact date, when it started. But it is celebrated in Tibet, Ladakh and entire Himachal Pradesh," said, Bhag Chand, a local resident.

On the first day of the festival, the God Mahabali is worshiped and on the fifth day 'Kotlu' is celebrated. By Prem Kumar (ANI)