The Unlit Diwali of Sammoo Village: A Tale of Tradition and Fear

In Sammoo village, Himachal Pradesh, Diwali remains uncelebrated due to a deep-seated tradition linked to a curse by a woman who committed Sati. Despite attempts to break this curse, villagers avoid festivities fearing disaster. This tradition persists even as younger generations express a desire for change.

Sammoo village in Himachal Pradesh stands unique as its residents abstain from celebrating Diwali, the vibrant festival of lights, due to a longstanding curse. This tradition, they believe, dates back generations when a distraught woman committed Sati on Diwali, leaving a curse that has outlived her.

Despite the passage of time, the apprehension of potential misfortune remains deeply embedded in the villagers' psyche. Celebration attempts have historically led to alleged disasters, reinforcing the taboo. This belief persists even though some younger residents are eager to challenge and change these customs.

Local leader Pooja Devi narrates the persistence of tradition, as villagers worship Sati and light diyas for her instead of Diwali festivities. The village continues to hope for the day it can embrace Diwali without fear of repercussions, signaling an ongoing battle between tradition and modernity.

(With inputs from agencies.)