State Symbols of Uttarakhand
State Symbols of Uttarakhand
Introduction to State Symbols of Uttarakhand
State Symbols of Uttarakhand, Uttarakhand, known for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, became the 27th state of India on 9th November 2000. The state has several official symbols that represent its unique identity and ethos. These state symbols act as iconic representations of Uttarakhand’s glorious past, vibrant culture, stunning landscapes and biodiversity.
The state symbols of Uttarakhand include the state animal, bird, tree, flower and more. They were officially adopted after the formation of the state and reflect the geography, ecology and cultural heritage of Uttarakhand. Let’s take a look at the key state symbols of Uttarakhand and understand what they signify:
State Animal – Musk Deer
The musk deer has been declared as the state animal of Uttarakhand. Known for the musk pod found in the males, the musk deer is primarily found in the higher Himalayan regions of Uttarakhand.
Some key facts about the Musk Deer:
- Scientific Name – Moschus Leucogaster
- Found in the upper mountainous regions and alpine pastures.
- Listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
- Poached for its scent gland used to make perfume.
- Protected under Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
The musk pod from the male musk deer has been used in traditional Indian medicine and perfumery since ancient times. Declaring the musk deer as the state animal highlights the need for its conservation in Uttarakhand.
State Bird – Monal
The Monal or the Himalayan Monal is the state bird of Uttarakhand. A pheasant-like bird, the male Monal is beautifully-plumed with multi-colored feathers, while the female is plain brown.
Key facts about the Monal:
- Scientific Name – Lophophorus impejanus.
- Found in the higher reaches of the Himalayas between 2500-4500 meter altitude.
- Omnivorous, feeding on roots, shoots, insects, and berries.
- Male has multi-hued plumage while female is brown.
- Breeds between April to June.
- State bird of both Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.
The regal and colorful Monal represents the avian wealth and biodiversity of the state. Its choice as the state bird highlights the need to protect the Himalayan ecology and wildlife.
State Tree – Buransh
The ‘Buransh’ or Rhododendron arboreum has been designated as Uttarakhand’s state tree. Found abundantly across the hilly state, the Buransh blooms with bright red flowers during spring, presenting a riot of colors.
Key facts about the Buransh:
- Scientifically named Rhododendron arboreum.
- Grows across the Himalayan belt, abundantly found in Uttarakhand.
- Blooms with bright red flowers during March-April.
- National flower of Nepal. State tree of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.
- Various products like juice, jam, incense sticks made from it.
The vibrant Buransh represents the floral wealth and biodiversity of Uttarakhand. Its choice highlights the ecological riches of the state.
State Flower – Brahma Kamal
The Brahma Kamal or the Saussurea obvallata has been declared the state flower of Uttarakhand. It is found in high altitude bogs and meadows of the Himalayan ranges in the state.
Key facts about the Brahma Kamal:
- Scientifically named Saussurea obvallata.
- Grows at 4000-5000 meter altitude in the higher Himalayas.
- Blooms in monsoon months of July-August.
- Considered sacred to Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu.
- Used for worship in various Hindu rituals and festivals.
The unique Brahma Kamal symbolizes the rich biodiversity as well as cultural and spiritual essence of Uttarakhand. Its choice as the state flower spotlights the state’s natural treasures.
State Fruit – Kaphal
The Kaphal or the King cherry has been designated as the State fruit of Uttarakhand. Known for its sour and tangy taste, Kaphal is small cherry-like fruit widely grown across Uttarakhand.
Key facts about Kaphal:
- Botanical name – Prunus cerasoides
- Grows at temperate Himalayan altitudes between 1500-2500 meters.
- Fruits during May to July.
- Used to make pickles, squash, juice and other products.
- Rich source of vitamins and antioxidants.
The Kaphal fruit represents the horticultural produce of the state. Its tangy taste is quintessential of Uttarakhand’s fruits.
State Fish – Trout
The trout fish has been declared the state fish of Uttarakhand. A cold-water fish, the trout is found in rivers, streams and high altitude lakes of Uttarakhand.
Key facts about Trout fish:
- Scientifically named Oncorhynchus mykiss.
- Introduced in Indian Himalayan rivers in the late 19th century by the British.
- Thrives in cold waters, high altitude lakes and streams.
- Important game and food fish.
- Supports local angling and recreational fishing economy.
The trout fish symbolizes the aquatic life as well biodiversity wealth of Uttarakhand. Its choice as the state fish highlights the fish diversity and angling opportunities in the state.
State Animal – Alpine Musk Deer
The Alpine Musk Deer has been declared as the state animal of Uttarakhand. This small deer is found in the higher reaches of the Himalayas and is prized for the musk gland found in males.
Some key facts:
- Scientifically called Moschus chrysogaster
- Found at high altitudes of 3000 to 5000 meters
- Listed as Endangered on IUCN Red List
- Hunted for musk pod used in perfumes
- Protected under Wildlife Protection Act 1972
The choice of the Alpine Musk deer highlights the need to protect wildlife and habitats in Uttarakhand’s high Himalayan landscapes.
State Heritage Animal – Bharal (Blue Sheep)
The Bharal or Blue Sheep has been designated as the State Heritage Animal of Uttarakhand. A wild mountain sheep, the Bharal is found in high altitude Trans-Himalayan valleys and slopes of the state.
Key facts about Bharal:
- Scientifically named Pseudois nayaur
- Found between 3000 to 5500 meter altitude
- Grazes on alpine pastures and grasslands
- Important prey species for big cats like snow leopard
- Provides wool, meat and milk
The Bharal represents the unique Trans-Himalayan wildlife of Uttarakhand. Its choice highlights the state’s efforts to conserve high altitude biodiversity.
State River – Ganga
The mighty river Ganga or Ganges has been declared as the state river of Uttarakhand. Emerging from Gangotri glacier, the Ganga flows through important religious sites like Rishikesh and Haridwar in the state.
Key facts about Ganga river:
- Emerges from Gangotri glacier in Uttarkashi.
- Key tributaries – Bhagirathi, Alaknanda, Mandakini, Pindar
- Major river of Northern Plains that supports millions
- Cultural and spiritual icon, worshipped as river goddess
- Supports agriculture, fishing, tourism economy
The Ganga symbolizes the river network and water wealth of Uttarakhand. Its choice as the state river recognizes the cultural, ecological and economic importance of the Ganga.
State Lakes – Nainital and Bhimtal
The scenic lakes of Nainital and Bhimtal have been declared the state lakes of Uttarakhand. Both these lakes are important tourist attractions located in Kumaon division of the state.
Key facts:
Nainital Lake
- Located in Nainital town at 1938 meter altitude
- Shaped like eye, giving the town its name
- Myths linked to Sati’s burnt eyes falling here
- Important tourist spot, boating activities
Bhimtal Lake
- Larger lake located near Nainital at 1370 meter altitude
- Named after Bhima from Mahabharata who made lake
- Island at center with Aquarium
- Base for water sports like kayaking
The scenic Nainital and Bhimtal lakes showcase the natural beauty, myths and tourism potential of Uttarakhand’s lakes. Their choice symbolizes the tourism assets of the state.
State Sport – Football
Football has been declared the state sport of Uttarakhand. The sport witnessed a revival after the formation of Uttarakhand state, with local football leagues and tournaments being organized.
Some key facts:
- Uttarakhand has over 60 registered football clubs and several grounds.
- State level football league named Garhwal-Kumaon Premier League started in 2016.
- Many players from state have represented national football teams.
- Sport promoted under state’s youth policies and initiatives.
Declaring football as the state sport aims to nurture sporting talent and promote fitness among youth in Uttarakhand.
State Dance – Chholiya
The energetic Chholiya dance has been designated as the state dance of Uttarakhand. Performed during festivals and special occasions, the Chholiya depicts the cultural spirit of the Kumaoni region.
Key facts about Chholiya:
- Originated in Kumaon region of Uttarakhand
- Performed by men dressed in colorful attires
- Fast-paced dance done to beats of dhol and damau
- Depicts vibrant culture and traditions of hills
As the state dance, the Chholiya represents the vibrant cultural heritage and performing arts traditions of Uttarakhand.
State Sweat Meat – Bal Mithai
The fudge-like Bal Mithai has been declared the state sweet meat of Uttarakhand. Made from condensed milk and sugar balls, it is a specialty sweet of the Kumaon region of the state.
Key facts about Bal Mithai:
- Originated in Almora district of Uttarakhand
- Made from khoya, coated with sugar balls
- Brown-colored fudge-like appearance
- Sweet’s name derived from bullet shape
- Popular delicacy in Kumaoni cuisine
As state sweet meat, the distinct Bal Mithai spotlights the rich cuisine and food heritage of Uttarakhand.
State Song – Uttarakhand Devabhumi Matribhumi
The song “Uttarakhand Devabhumi Matribhumi” has been officially designated as the State Song of Uttarakhand. Penned by poet Neelesh Misra and composed by Shashi Goswami, the song beautifully captures the essence of Uttarakhand.
Some key facts:
- Penned by renowned lyricist Neelesh Misra
- Composed and sung by Shashi Goswami
- Describes Uttarakhand’s nature, culture and people
- Evokes a strong sense of belonging and pride
As the official state song, it represents the spirit, natural beauty and cultural vibrancy of Uttarakhand.
State Seal – Official Seal
The state seal depicts several elements symbolic of Uttarakhand’s geography, culture and history. It features a female figure holding a banner with Uttarakhand state’s name written in Hindi.
Elements depicted on Uttarakhand state seal:
- Central female figure holding state banner
- Himalayan peaks with rising sun
- Ganga flowing out of Himalayas
- Buransh flowers and conifers
- Man holding plough and sickle
As the official state seal, it integrates visual elements capturing the essence and spirit of Uttarakhand.
Conclusion to State Symbols of Uttarakhand
The state symbols of Uttarakhand present signature aspects of its environment, people, culture and history. The state animal Musk Deer, bird Monal, tree Buransh, flower Brahma Kamal all showcase the rich biodiversity of the state.
Likewise, the Ganga river, Nainital-Bhimtal lakes highlight Uttarakhand’s natural treasures, while Chholiya dance, Bal Mithai sweet meat depict its cultural heritage. Together, these state symbols profile the unique identity of Uttarakhand as Devabhumi, the Land of Gods.
FAQs:
What is Uttarakhand best known for in terms of history?
Uttarakhand has a rich history dating back to the prehistoric times. It was dominated by local hill kingdoms in the medieval period before the British colonial rule.
What aspects define the culture of Uttarakhand?
Uttarakhand culture is defined by unique art forms like folk songs and dances, vibrant festivals, local deities, cuisine traditions and more that evolved in the Himalayan region over centuries.
What are the key historical eras of Uttarakhand?
The history of Uttarakhand can be divided into prehistoric era, ancient period under Mauryas and Kushanas, medieval rule by local kingdoms, Mughal-Maratha influence and British colonial rule.
What are some prominent cultural symbols of Uttarakhand?
Prominent symbols of Uttarakhand’s culture include folk dance Chholiya, sweet dish Bal Mithai, the Buransh flower, the Himalayan Monal bird and more.copy
