Correct option is B
The correct answer is (B) 1–b, 2–c, 3–a
Explanation:
Devidhura Mela (1–b) is held at the Varahi Devi Temple in Champawat district and is famously celebrated on the day of Raksha Bandhan.
Uttaraini Mela (2–c) starts on the occasion of Makar Sankranti (usually January 14th) and is most prominent in the Bageshwar district at the confluence of the Saryu and Gomti rivers.
Gauchar Mela (3–a) is a massive industrial and cultural fair in Chamoli that traditionally begins on November 14th (Children's Day).
The Gauchar Mela was first organized in 1943 by the then Deputy Commissioner, Barnedy, to promote trade in the Tibet border regions.
The Bagwal (stone-pelting) ritual of Devidhura is a unique cultural highlight where devotees traditionally used stones, though it has recently transitioned to using fruits and flowers.
Information Booster:
Uttarayani Mela is historically significant as the site where the Coolie-Begar system was abolished in 1921 under the leadership of Badri Datt Pandey.
Devidhura is situated in the Champawat district and is considered one of the most sacred Peethas in the Kumaon region.
Additional Knowledge:14 November (a) * This date marks the birth anniversary of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru.
In Uttarakhand, it is the fixed commencement date for the Gauchar Mela, highlighting its nature as a state-level industrial fair.
Raksha Bandhan (b) * Occurs on the Purnima (Full Moon) of the Shravan month.
It is the specific day for the Bagwal fair at Devidhura, where the four clans (Chamyal, Gaharwal, Olgiya, and Lamgaria) participate.
Makar Sankranti (c) * Marks the entry of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn.
Apart from the Bageshwar fair, it is celebrated across Uttarakhand as Ghughutiya, where special sweets (Ghughute) are prepared for crows.