Dehradun: There are many folk stories, legends, and beliefs associated with Igas Bagwal, yet the true soul of this festival can be understood through just two lines—lines that capture its essence, emotion, and history:
“Barah ai gaini Bagwali, mero Madho ni aai
Solah aini shraddh, mero Madho ni aai”
The meaning is simple yet deeply moving—
Twelve Bagwals passed, but Madho Singh did not return.
Sixteen shraddh rituals went by, yet there was still no sign of him or his soldiers.
Even on Diwali, when the brave Madho Singh Bhandari and his army didn’t return, the people of the region refused to celebrate. Instead, the entire valley was filled with anxiety, hope, and helpless waiting.
At the heart of Igas Bagwal lies the story of the unparalleled courage and sacrifice of Veer Bhairav (Bhad) Madho Singh Bhandari, and the unwavering devotion of the people toward him.
Let’s dive into the full story behind this remarkable festival.
The Complete Story of Igas Bagwal and Its True Significance
Around 400 years ago, Maharaja Mahipat Shah received shocking news that the Tibetan army had killed the heroic Barthwal brothers. Enraged, he immediately informed Veer Madho Singh Bhandari and ordered him to attack Tibet.
Madho Singh wasted no time. He gathered brave warriors from Tehri, Uttarkashi, Jaunsar, Srinagar, and surrounding regions, forming a large and well-organized army. This army marched toward Tibet, defeated the Dwapara king, and even imposed tax on him.
Not only this—Madho Singh’s soldiers erected boundary pillars (munars) along several strategic points near the Tibetan border. Some of these markers still exist today. Even during the survey of the McMahon Line, these very munars were used as reference points—an enduring symbol of Madho Singh’s valor and territorial victories.
However, heavy snowfall blocked all routes. Searching for a way back, Madho Singh and his troops reached Dusaant, a treacherous region between Kumaon and Garhwal. What happened next gave birth to the tradition of Igas Bagwal.
The Tradition of Igas Bagwal Born After the Tibetan War
For months, there was no news of the soldiers who had marched to Tibet. Fear and sorrow spread throughout the villages. Opponents of Madho Singh further fueled despair by spreading rumors of his death.
These painful emotions appear in many old folk songs where the longing for soldiers and the hope for their return is vividly portrayed.
Meanwhile, Madho Singh had reached Ucchanandan Garh, where he met Udina, the daughter of the local chieftain. The two fell in love at first sight.
Udina was set to marry in just two days. On the day of her wedding, Madho Singh entered the procession disguised as a dancer along with his Jaunsari warriors. Udina immediately recognized him among the performers.
During the dance, Madho Singh gave a secret signal. The toy-like props used in the performance suddenly turned into real weapons, and in that very moment, he carried Udina away with him.
When Madho Singh finally returned victorious to Srinagar with his entire army, families whose loved ones had gone to war rejoiced with immense pride and relief.
This joy and thanksgiving celebration came to be known as Igas Bagwal.
Why Sweet Bitter Gourd (Mithe Karele) Are Cooked on Ekadashi
On Ekadashi, many villages still follow the tradition of preparing sweet bitter gourd and red Basmati rice. This food is not merely a ritual—it symbolizes purity and a fresh beginning.
For the celebration, people used to form groups to collect surmadi’s lgle (wild vines) and specific resin-rich parts of the chir pine tree. These were used to make bhailo—traditional torches.
Chir pine bark was considered the best material. Interestingly, the bark—called bagot—was once exported to Tibet at a high price. This shows how valuable Uttarakhand’s forests, resin, and wood were in the olden days.
The Significance of Bhailu and Its Symbol of Light
Bhailu—a torch made from chir pine wood—is the highlight of Igas Bagwal. It is also known as Andhya, meaning one who destroys darkness.
Thus, bhailu represents light, victory, and courage.
A large bhailu was often prepared collectively by the entire village. When someone lifted this massive torch, people believed extraordinary strength and bravery flowed into them—a moment of great pride for the whole community.
Another Belief: Delay in Diwali News After Lord Rama’s Return
It is said that when Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and the victory of Lanka, the news reached the remote Himalayan regions eleven days later. Hence, people here celebrated Diwali eleven days late.
Many locals connect this tradition with the modern-day Igas Bagwal celebration.
A Second Folk Legend
Another popular tale traces back to the Mahabharata era. Bhima was once challenged to a fierce battle by a demon. After fighting for several days, Bhima returned victorious, and the people celebrated with lamps and festivities.
Some believe today’s Igas Bagwal is a remembrance of that ancient victory celebration.
