RECAP

The recent DUSI Summer event was a vibrant and memorable occasion, marking a significant milestone for the community of Uttarakhandis in Ireland. Our primary objective was to bring together the Uttarakhandi diaspora, fostering a sense of unity and shared cultural heritage, and we are thrilled to say that this goal was successfully achieved. The event was a great success, offering attendees the opportunity to connect, celebrate, and enjoy a range of activities.

As part of our ongoing commitment to improving and expanding our events, we look forward to incorporating even more interactive activities in future gatherings. This event was just the beginning, and we are excited about the potential for growth and enhancement in our upcoming DUSI events.

A highlight of our summer event was the early celebration of Harela, one of Uttarakhand's major festivals. Harela, which is celebrated in the Shravan month, marks the advent of the rainy season and commemorates the wedding of Lord Shiva and Parvati. Traditionally, people create small Dikars, idols of gods and goddesses made from clay, to worship Gauri, Maheshwar, and Ganesha. The festival also involves giving rest to the bullocks and sending Harela to friends and family. Significantly, it provides an opportunity for cultivators to test the quality of their stored seeds.

Although we celebrated Harela a bit earlier than usual, we did not miss the essence and spirit of the festival. Our community came together to honor this tradition, creating a heartfelt and culturally rich experience for everyone involved.

As we continue to grow, we are committed to making each DUSI event more engaging and enjoyable. This summer gathering was a promising start, and we are excited for what the future holds for our community.