Himachal Pradesh is a place that boasts of simple people, deep cultural roots and great traditional values. About 90 percent of the people living in the state follow Hinduism and can be divided into five main communities, namely Brahmins, Rajputs, Kannets, Rathis and Kolis. Apart from that, you can also find tribal communities residing in the state, comprising mainly of Gaddis, Kinnars, Gujjars, Pangawals and Lahaulis. The 'unspolit' simplicity of the people and culture of Himachal Pradesh is what touches the heart. In this section, we have provided complete information on the cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh.
Himachal Pradesh has a rich history that has laid a strong foundation
for the state it is now. The origin of Himachal Pradesh goes back to the
era of the first ever human settlement that took place in India - Indus
Valley Civilization. The flourishing civilization affected the foothills
of the Himalayas, the place where present day Himachal Pradesh is
Himachal Pradesh has a culture that is quite distinct from the rest of
the country. This mountainous area thrives in folk songs and its
inhabitants never seem to loose an opportunity to revel in some
melodious traditional music! Most of the songs are sung with musical
instruments, though these songs not necessarily need an accompaniment.
The people of Himachal Pradesh are known for their love of colors and
festivities. Forming a part of these festivities are folk dances of the
state, with themes revolving around the scenes from the mythological
epics such as Ramayana and Mahabharata. Folklores and chivalry tales of
the local heroes and religious deities are some other themes.