From the archive record
Two groups from different clans throw stones at each other while trying to protect themselves with large wooden shields. The participants do not care about the injuries they receive. In fact, the injuries are believed to be a blessing from the goddess. It is claimed by the people of Devidhura that nobody has ever died as a result of the stone-pelting during this unusual fair. One village stones another village, in an age-old tradition... Festivals are occasions to spend time with friends and family, of religious ceremony and of introspection. However some festivals can be quite deadly. In the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand in India a dangerous festival of stone pelting is organized annually. Outside of this region, to the rest of the world this festival would seem bizarre. Lohaghat is a dest