Stones Of Faith: Dhami’s Pathar Mela Revives Centuries-Old Ritual Of Devotion

Image Source : Highland Post

Dhami’s Pathar Mela, held after Diwali, revives a 400-year-old ritual where two clans symbolically hurl stones to honor Goddess Bhadrakali. The event, rooted in faith and folklore, replaces ancient human sacrifice with ritual bloodletting. Recognized as cultural heritage, it draws devotees and tourists to Himachal’s spiritual heartland

In the hill village of Dhami near Shimla, the air once again echoed with the sound of clashing stones as locals gathered for the centuries-old Pathar Mela. Held annually on the second day of Diwali, this unique ritual blends symbolic combat with spiritual reverence, keeping alive a tradition rooted in sacrifice, protection, and community identity.

Key Highlights From This Year’s Pathar Mela
- The ritual took place at the Sati memorial ground in Chauraj village, where members of the Jamogi and Katedu clans participated in a symbolic stone-pelting ceremony
- The event lasted approximately 25 minutes, with participants hurling stones in a disciplined and ritualized manner to honor Goddess Bhadrakali
- The tradition, believed to be over 400 years old, was originally introduced to replace human sacrifice with symbolic bloodletting
- A sacred tilak is made using the blood of the injured, which is then offered at the local Bhadrakali temple as a mark of devotion
- Despite the apparent violence, the event is conducted under strict supervision, with medical teams on standby and safety protocols in place
- The Himachal Pradesh government recognizes the Pathar Mela as a cultural heritage event, drawing both devotees and curious visitors each year

Cultural And Strategic Relevance
Pathar Mela is more than a ritual—it is a living testament to the region’s syncretic traditions, where faith, folklore, and community converge. It reflects the resilience of oral traditions and the ability of local customs to adapt over time while preserving their core spiritual essence.

Industry Context
As India’s cultural tourism sector grows, events like Pathar Mela offer immersive experiences that connect visitors with indigenous practices. The festival also underscores the importance of safeguarding intangible heritage in the face of modernization and urban migration.

Outlook
With increasing media attention and state support, Pathar Mela is poised to gain wider recognition as a symbol of Himachal’s living heritage. Efforts are underway to document and archive the ritual for future generations while ensuring its authenticity remains intact.

Sources:
[1] UNI India – Stones Of Faith: Dhami’s Centuries-Old ‘Pathar Mela’
[2] Times Of India – Pathar Mela: Sacred Blood Tilak Marks Ritual
[3] Highland Post – Annual Pathron Ka Mela Held At Dhami