Historic Khalanga Festival Concludes with Grand Celebrations
The 51st edition of the historic two-day Khalanga festival reached its spectacular conclusion with a vibrant fair on Sunday at Sagartal Nalapani in Dehradun. Organized annually by the Balbhadra Khalanga Vikas Samiti, this significant event pays tribute to the extraordinary courage demonstrated by Gorkha soldiers during the crucial Battle of Nalapani in the Anglo-Gorkha War of 1814–16.
Official Tributes and Historical Significance
Uttarakhand assembly speaker Ritu Khanduri Bhushan graced the occasion as chief guest, joining other dignitaries in laying wreaths at the Khalanga War Memorial to honor the martyrs. The ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by Gorkha warriors who displayed remarkable resistance against British forces.
Event organizers took the opportunity to recount the detailed history of the Anglo-Gorkha War, emphasizing the exceptional military skills and unwavering courage shown by the Gorkha army. They highlighted how the soldiers' indomitable spirit directly led to the establishment of three Gorkha battalions on April 24, 1815, in Subathu, Himachal Pradesh and Almora, Uttarakhand. The iconic Gorkha hat was recognized as a lasting symbol emerging from this significant conflict.
Cultural Extravaganza and Community Participation
The festival grounds came alive with captivating performances of traditional Garhwali and Kumaoni folk dances and songs. Committee secretary Prabha Shah expressed that the main attraction remained the colorful performances by local folk artists, who beautifully showcased both the valour of the Gorkhas and the rich cultural heritage of the Indian Gorkha community. These performances were accompanied by the popular naumati baja, the ancient Gorkha nine musical instruments that added authentic traditional rhythms to the celebrations.
Food enthusiasts enjoyed sampling traditional Gorkha delicacies at various food stalls, while the event also honored prominent singers, athletes, mountaineers and military personnel from the community. Adding to the weekend's activities, a bike rally was organized on Saturday to promote environmental conservation and cleanliness awareness among participants and spectators alike.
