This festival is solely held to celebrate the rainy season on the first of Shravan (July) in order to keep the rain Gods happy. The traditional ceremony begins with the sowing of seeds of five to seven different crops like wheat, barley, etc. ten days before the official date of the celebration. The head of the family or a priest usually does this ritual. These seeds are sown in a small basket that is filled with earth and is kept near the household or place where the idols of Gods are kept. A day before the actual celebration, a mock wedding takes place that symbolizes the holy marriage of Lord Shiva and Parvati, Clay statues of the Gods are placed near the saplings. The place is cleaned and offering of fruits and flowers are made to the idols. The priest prays for long lasting fertility and greenery of the fields.
Timings for Rhyali Festival in Shimla
July: