Background: 
This recording captures the vibrant sounds of the Mahasu Devta Temple in Hanol, a revered site located in the Jaunsar-Bawar region of Uttarakhand. Mahasu Devta, a prominent deity worshipped across parts of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, is considered the god of justice and is deeply venerated among the local mountain communities. The deity's influence extends from Jaunsar-Bawar in Dehradun district to the hills of Himachal, where temples dedicated to Mahasu Devta are central to the region's spiritual landscape.  In Nepal, he is regarded as 'Masto'.

Mahasu Devta is a collective name given to 4 brothers: Chalda Maharaj, Botha Maharaj, Bashik Maharaj and Pabashik Maharaj. Their temples are located in and around village Hanol on the banks of river Tons. In recent past, the age-old theocratic governance of Mahasu Devta, although acceptable to people and local rulers, was not taken kindly by the British authority. One of their officers, Major Young, found the authority of Mahasu Devta 'a great nuisance'. Mahasu Devta is not only an arbiter over mortals but is also considered supreme over numerous indigenous gods and goddesses.

With origins dating back centuries, the temple at Hanol is a prominent pilgrimage site and is architecturally significant, showcasing intricate wood carvings of 'Kath-kuni (Koti- Banal)' that reflect the local craftsmanship. Due to its architecture, it has been included in the Archaeological Survey of India’s list of ancient temples of the Dehradun region.
 
About the song: 
The song recorded here is performed every evening by a father and son who have been the hereditary musicians along with local priests of village Hanol.  

The innermost hall was occupied by dominant caste men mostly priests from the village responsible to perform the rituals. Village women and worshippers from nearby valleys and Himachal Pradesh occupied the second hall towards the entrance. The musicians were seated in the outer hall.  

At 2:04, the priests join the drumbeats with temple bells from the inner most hall. 

For other rituals, native instruments such as 'Dhol', 'Damau' and 'Ranasingha' are used to invoke the protective presence of Mahasu Devta, thus, creating an enchanting atmosphere that resonates through the valley.

Altitude: 3,445 ft (Above sea level)

Recorded during the Askot- Arakot Abhiyan Yatra, 2024. 
Date of recording: 7th July 2024

Disclaimer: 
Ownership rights belong to the musicians of village Hanol. Recording has been for educational and documentation purposes only. Kindly provide credits to the artists if used otherwise.

chinmaya shah

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