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Dehradun: Uttarakhand is preparing to celebrate one of its most beloved folk festivals—Igas Bagwal, also known as Budhi Deepawali or Igas Diwali—on Saturday, November 1, 2025. This unique celebration takes place 11 days after the main Diwali festival and is deeply rooted in the cultural and spiritual traditions of the Garhwal and Kumaon regions.
Igas Bagwal falls on Kartik Shukla Ekadashi and is marked by devotion, music, and community joy. The Uttarakhand government also declares a state holiday on this day to honour its cultural importance.
“Bagwal” refers to the Diwali celebration
The word “Igas” comes from the local term for Ekadashi, while “Bagwal” refers to the Diwali celebration. Together, they represent a festival of light, gratitude, and unity. Homes and temples are decorated with lamps, and the air fills with folk songs and laughter.
Two popular legends behind the celebration of Igas
There are two popular legends behind the celebration of Igas. One story connects it to Bhagwan Shri Ram’s return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and victory over Lanka. While Diwali was celebrated across India, the news reached the hills of Kumaon 11 days later. Locals then lit lamps and celebrated their own Diwali, which became known as Igas.
Another legend honours Veer Madho Singh Bhandari, a brave commander of King Mahipati Shah of Tehri. Around 400 years ago, he led a battle in Tibet during Diwali. People feared the soldiers had been martyred. But when Madho Singh returned victorious on the 11th day after Diwali, the villagers celebrated with lamps and joy, calling it Budhi Deepawali.
Highlight of Igas celebrations is the traditional ritual of “Bhailo’
The highlight of Igas celebrations is the traditional ritual of “Bhailo.” Villagers prepare small bundles of dry wood from sesame, bhangjire, hissar, and pine, tied with special rope. After evening prayers, these bundles are lit and waved in the air, creating glowing circles of fire. Bhailo is believed to bring prosperity and drive away evil. In addition, folk songs are sung with great enthusiasm. Locals perform traditional dances such as Chanchhari and Jhummelo, adding to the festive spirit.
Special dishes and sweets are prepared
The day begins with special dishes and sweets, followed by bhajan-kirtan and prayers to Bhagwan Ram. Villagers gather to celebrate with music, food, and light, strengthening community bonds.
Igas Bagwal is more than just a delayed Diwali. It is a symbol of Uttarakhand’s rich traditions, reminding everyone of the power of unity, devotion, and the joy of celebrating together.
