Dehradun, 16 March: Anup Malik, Head of Forest Force today launched a gift edition of ‘The Valley of Flowers by Frank S Smythe,’ at Van Bhavan, on the occasion of Phool Dei Festival. High in the Himalayan ranges of Garhwal, lies an enchanting valley, In 1931. Frank S Smythe, acclaimed mountaineer, explorer and botanist- chanced upon this valley with its colorful fairyland of flowers. This book is an absorbing account of Smythe’s discovery and subsequent
visit. Now world famous, the Valley of Flowers – its glory, peace and mysterious beauty unspoiled
since Smythe’s time -continues to lure adventurers.
Known as the harvest festival of the state of Uttarakhand, Phool Dei is an auspicious folk festival
which welcomes the spring season in the state. The festival is celebrated on the first day of the
Hindu month, Chaitra. Young girls are the most enthusiastic ones to participate in the festival.
Phool Dei is all about flowers and springtime. In some places, the festival is celebrated as a
carnival and the celebration goes on for a month. The term ‘Dei’ refers to a ceremonial pudding
which is the key food in this festival that is made from jaggery. White flour and curd are also
offered to everyone.
On the occasion, while sharing his experience of his first visit to the Valley of Flowers in 2005,
Malik said he was completely spellbound by the breathtaking beauty and it is simply difficult to
find words to express the happiness of the thought as compared with a meditation that has no
intellectual limitations. He conveyed his warm appreciation for the efforts made by Natraj
Publishers in bringing back the book in print.
Valley of Flowers has signed a MoU with Slovenia’s Triglav Park. The pact will enable forest
officials from both nations to collaborate on management, advocacy and showcasing best practices.
