Joshimath, also known as Jyotirmath, is a charming town nestled in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. Situated at an elevation of around 6,150 feet above sea level, this town holds great religious and cultural significance.
Kumaon Himalayas
The Festival of Four brothers
This is a regional festival celebrated in Chamoli District of Uttarakhand. I had an opportunity to witness this festival coincidentally while i was visiting Auli.
This festival is celebration for union of four brotherly gods who are divided by land. This festival is celebrated once in every 3-6 years. Hundreds of people gather around at Shri Narsingh Temple, Joshimath to witness this festival.
statues of four brothers
Shri Narsingh Temple
people gathered around Shri Narsingh temple
Rituals of this festival are organized by priests of Shri Narsingh Temple. Priests carry statues of four brotherly gods bonded with wooden pillars and dance around the temple to celebrate the union of brotherly gods.
statues arriving at the temple
A priest carrying the statue
Another priest carrying the statue
Priests carrying the statues
4 statues being carried around
Priests dancing with the statues
Four priests have been chosen as vessels for brotherly gods, who have taken possession of them to personally meet, greet, and ensure the well-being of one another.
A young priest possessed by one of the brotherly gods
possession
Water being showered upon a possessed priest
A possessed priest
People witnessing the possessed priests hugging each other
This 15-day festival is marked by the observance and celebration of numerous rituals. I consider myself fortunate to have experienced this culturally enriching celebration, where the focus is on honoring relationships and expressing emotions.
Children playing a musical instrument for ritual
