Fagli Festival of Kullu: Himachal’s Ancient Mask Ritual

The Fagli Festival is a unique masked ritual of Kullu Valley, Himachal Pradesh, celebrating the end of winter and the arrival of spring.

Fagli, also known as Phagli or Faguli, is a traditional folk festival deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of Kullu district.

The highlight of Fagli Festival is the masked dance, where men wear wooden masks and colorful costumes to perform sacred rituals.

The masks represent deities, spirits, and protective forces believed to ward off evil and bring prosperity to the village.

During Fagli, masked performers visit every house, blessing families and symbolically driving away negative energy.

Fagli Festival is celebrated between February and March, during the month of Phalgun, marking seasonal transition in Himachal.

Fagli is mainly celebrated in the Kullu district, including Banjar, Jibhi, Tirthan Valley, and nearby Himalayan villages.

Traditional drums, trumpets, and folk rhythms accompany the ritual dances, creating a powerful spiritual atmosphere.

Fagli Festival symbolizes purification, renewal, and divine protection for crops, livestock, and village life.

The Fagli Festival reflects Himachal Pradesh’s rich tribal heritage and the importance of preserving ancient cultural rituals.