The origins of the Renuka Mela lie in the tale of Lord Parashuram. Renuka was the wife of Sage Jamadagni and the mother of Lord Parashuram. Renuka was beheaded by her son Parashuram at the behest of Sage Jamadagni, who suspected her of infidelity. The sage regretted his actions and bought her back to life.
Lord Parashuram was struck by remorse and retired to do penance. He promised to visit his mother once every year on the occasion of Dashami in the Hindu month of Karthik, which usually coincides with the Gregorian months of November–December. The Renuka fair is celebrated to commemorate Lord Parashuram’s visit.
Traditions
Renuka is one of the largest lakes in Himachal Pradesh and embodies the mother of Lord Parashuram. The lake lies in the Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh .There is a temple on the banks of the lake dedicated to Goddess Renuka.
On the occasion of Karthik Dashami, the idol of Lord Parashuram is carried in a palanquin with great fanfare from the ancient temple of Jamu Koti Village to the Renukaji temple at Dadahu. Twelve idols of other Gods also carried to the Renuka ji temple on the same day. After being worshipped by the devotees, the idols and palanquins return to JamuKoti on the next day, which is Karthik Ekadashi.
Tourist Essential
The fair is an ancient tradition and attracts thousands of devotees who believe in the ancient legend. The religious ceremony is an excuse for the locals to dress in their finery and have a gala celebration. There is a fair organised near the temple, which attracts visitors from Himachal and the neighbouring states.
Local agricultural produce, dry fruits, handicrafts, quilts and woollens are traded at the fair. The Renuka Lake is in a picturesque location being surrounded by towering mountains and pristine forests. The Renuka sanctuary is located close by, and it is the natural habitat of the Himalayan black bears and spotted deer. The Renuka fair continues for 3 days in which locals perform their traditional dances for the entertainment of tourists
