Shimla, Nov. 9 -- A centuries-old tradition of faith, sacrifice and cultural heritage came alive in Dhami village, around 40 kilometres from Shimla, as thousands of people gathered to witness the traditional Stone-Pelting Fair, locally known as 'Patthar Ka Khel'.

Celebrated every year on the day after Diwali, the unique ritual has been observed for nearly 400 years and continues to reflect the deep-rooted religious beliefs and cultural identity of the region.

The traditional event involves two designated groups of villagers throwing stones at each other until a participant sustains a minor injury. A few drops of blood from the injured participant are then offered to Goddess Bhadrakali. According to local belief, the ritual evolved as an...