Sadaket Malik
sadaketjammu@gmail.com
Bhalessa, a region nestled in the heart of the picturesque Jammu and Kashmir, is a land where fairs and festivals thrive. Among the myriad celebrations that grace this land, the Kod Festival, also known as the Jatra Festival, stands out as a symbol of cultural richness and heritage. This annual event paints the region with vibrant hues and resonates with the spirit of unity among its people.
The Jatra Festival, known locally as Kod, holds great importance across the three tehsils of Bhalessa: Gandoh, Chilli Pingal, and Kahara. This celebration transcends geographical boundaries, bringing together the people of Bhalessa in a harmonious celebration of their cultural roots. Held in the month of September, the festival spans four days, and one can witness the true essence of Bhalessa’s culture during this time.
The Kod Festival takes on a grand spectacle. Villages like Chonwari, Drai Bheja, Ludoo, Knasar, Kharangal, and Kandolo Bhalessa come together to offer food free of cost to visitors and relatives. The festival resonates with the spirit of unity and generosity as communities join hands to share in the celebration.
A prominent feature of the Kod Festival is the Kud Dance, also known as the Dhaku Dance. This dance is typically performed during the night around a bonfire. The purpose of the dance is to express gratitude to the Beer Devta, the local deity, for protecting and nurturing the crops, cattle, and the well-being of families. It’s a gesture of thankfulness for safeguarding against natural calamities.
The Kod Dance, performed during the festival, is a captivating display of traditional artistry. Dancers, of all ages, participate with great enthusiasm, creating a mesmerizing spectacle under the moonlight. The speed of the dancers changes in tune with the music, captivating the audience. The climax of this dance involves a daring feat as Shakti Singh, a dancer from Chonwari village, divides a flaming charcoal heap into two parts with his bare feet. It’s a moment of awe and admiration for the festival’s visitors.
Even during times of turmoil, the Kod Festival remains steadfast in its celebration. The Bheja kud of Jattras, despite the challenges faced, continues to be a source of cultural pride and resilience. The traditional Kud Dance is performed regularly, ensuring that the spirit of Bhalessa’s culture remains undiminished.
The Kod Festival of Bhalessa has its share of renowned performers who have become synonymous with the celebration. Dancers like Bhuri Singh, Prem Singh, Naseeb Singh, Mahashwar Singh, Behari Lal, Bagmal, Pawan Kumar, Kapul Dev, Milak Ram, Pardeep Kumar, Boj Ram, and Kalyam Singh bring their artistry to life during the festival. Their performances are a testament to the deep-rooted cultural significance of the Kod Festival.
The Kod Festival is not confined to Jitota alone. It is celebrated with pomp and show in all other villages of Bhalessa. The festival extends beyond religious and geographical boundaries, uniting people in a shared celebration of their heritage.
In addition to the lively festivities, Bhalessa is adorned with numerous holy places and memorials, especially in the town of Bhalessa and its hilly roads. Devotees embark on pilgrimages to these sacred sites and perform Kudd, adding a spiritual dimension to the cultural celebration. These spiritual endeavors reinforce the unity and connection between culture and faith in the Bhalessa region.
The Kod Festival of Bhalessa, with its Kud Dance, community feasts, and deep-rooted traditions, encapsulates the very essence of this unique and culturally rich region. It is a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of the people of Bhalessa, who continue to celebrate their heritage in the face of challenges, preserving their culture for generations to come.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
