Festivals of India

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Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti festival in India is one of the widely celebrated festivals
in India. Celebrated all over the country with different names, this festival
is known to bring a wave of celebration all over India.
In South India Makar Sankranti is called Pongal, in North India it is called
Lohri, while in Western India particularly Gujarat it is celebrated by flying
colourful kites. Lots of Hindus assemble on auspicious places and pray
to the Sun God.
Significance of this day:
Literally Makar means Capricorn and Sankranti stands for transition.
Astrologically there is a Sankranti every month when the sun passes
from one zodiac sign to the next one. Since there are 12 zodiac signs
there are 12 Sankrantis. Each of these Sankrantis have their own
importance but Mesh (Aries) Sankranti and Makar (Capricorn) Sankranti
are considered more prominent.
Makar Sankranti is the transition of the Sun from Sagittarius to
Capricorn, during winter. From this day begins the six-month long
Uttarayana. Makar Sankranti is celebrated in the Hindu month of Magha.
After Sankranti the days start becoming longer and a lot warmer.
Culture & Festivities:
Uttar Pradesh:
In Uttar Pradesh, Sankranti is called Khichiri. Devotees make a beeline
to exchange Sankranti greetings and take a dip in the holy rivers.
Tamil Nadu:
In Tamil Nadu Sankranti is called Pongal. Women prepare a rice and
milk sweet preparation which is called pongal. This pongal is offered to
the Sun God.
Andhra Pradesh:
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In Andhra Pradesh, this is celebrated as a four-day festival. It is a big
event for Andhraites, particularly the farmer community. The festival
begins with Bhogi, the second day is called Sankranti, the third day
Kanuma and the celebrations conclude with Mukkanuma, which falls on
the fourth day.
Maharashtra:
In Maharashtra people exchange tilguls (sweets made from sesame
seeds and jaggery). On this day people aim to forget the ill events of the
past and resolve to be nice to each other.
This is a special day for the women in Maharashtra when married
women are invited for a get together called Haldi-Kumkum where they
are given gifts.
Gujarat:
In Gujarat Sankranti is observed with the same fervour as other parts of
the country. On this day the elders in the family buy gifts for the younger
members of the family. Also, kite flying is a big ritual that is followed on
this day. All members of the community get together for this event on
this day.
Punjab:
Huge bonfires are lit for Lohri. Sweets, sugarcane and corn are thrown
into the bonfires. The people of the community also dance and enjoy a
lavish dinner together.
Orissa:
People in Orissa get together and light a bonfire. They dance together,
eat good food and also put up handmade trinkets for sale.
Thus our country gains its colourful profile with a celebration so vivid in
different states yet binding with a single thread running through it.
Baisakhi
Baisakhi is one of the major festivals celebrated by theSikhcommunity
the world over. This day has a huge religious significance as it was on
this day that Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th Sikh Guru laid the foundation
of Panth Khalsa (the Order of the Pure Ones). This occasion is also
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particularly auspicious for farmers as it is the harvest time for Rabi crops.
When is it celebrated?
Baisakhi falls on the first day of Vaisakh month according to Nanakshahi
(Sikh Calendar). According to English calendar, Baisakhi falls on April 13
or 14. Baisakhi celebrations coincide with Rongali Bihu in Assam, Naba
Barsha in Bengal, Puthandu in Tamil Nadu and Pooram Vishu in Kerala.
Baisakhi celebrations
Usually people wake up early to prepare for Baisakhi celebrations.
After getting ready people generally pay a visit to the neighbourhood
gurdwara and take part in the special prayer meetings organized for the
special day. At the end of the ardas (prayer meet), the devotees receive
specially prepared Kara prasad (sweet prepared with semolina). This is
followed by a community lunch where everyone sits together on the floor
in rows and is served food. This system is followed to stress on the point
that everyone is equal in Gods eyes.
Baisakhi procession
Later during the day, Sikhs stage a Baisakhi procession wherein
the sacred Guru GranthSahibis taken out. Towards the end of the
procession the Panj Piaras, that stand for the five fearless devotees, are
baptized. These processions are attended by men, women and children
and the procession moves through major colonies of the city. Bhangra
and gidda dances are also performed during these processions.
Devotees chant Joh Bole So Nihal and Satnam and Wahe guru through
the procession. Some Sikhs also actively participate in charity acts on
this day.
Significance of Baisakhi for the Sikh community
Baisakhi is a very important day for people of theSikhfaith. This is
because it was on a Baisakhi Day in 1699 that the 10th Guru of Sikhs,
Guru Gobind Singh founded the Khalsa Panth also called Order of
Pure Ones. It was on this day that Guru Gobind Singhji distributed amrit
(nectar) to his first five disciples. Also on this day he renamed all Sikhs
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as Singhs to eradicate the differences of classes and castes.
Baisakhi for farmers

For the farming community of Punjab and Haryana, Baisakhi marks the
beginning of the New Year as rabi crop is harvested during this time. On
this day farmers thank the Almighty for the good crop and also pray for
prosperous times in the New Year. Most people purchase new clothes
and celebrate by singing, dancing and enjoying good food. Several
villagers also organise Punjabi Baisakhi fairs that have recreational
activities like wrestling competitions.
Diwali festival
Diwali is one of the longest celebrated and most prominent festivals
celebrated by the Hindu community. It was on this day that Lord Rama
returned home after defeating Ravana. People celebrate this festival by
making sweets at home, buying new clothes and gold, visiting friends
and decorating their homes.
Diwali legends
Diwali is widely celebrated as the day when Lord Rama returned to
Ayodhya after defeating demon king Ravana in Lanka. It was on this day
that the royal families of Ayodhya and Mithila (the kingdom of which Sita
was princess) were lit up with rows of lamps, glittering on the dark night
of Amavasya (moonless night) to welcome King Rama and his wife. This
day also marked the end of the 14-year exile they were subjected to.
In rural areas, Diwali was also known to be a harvest festival. The
farmers usually celebrated Diwali to mark the end of a cropping season.
Farmers bought new clothes, made sweets and celebrated to thank the
Almighty for the bountiful crop.
Legend has it that, Narakasura, a monster, ruled a kingdom called
Pradyoshapuram and was known to be a huge trouble maker. When
Lord Indra approached Lord Krishna and pleaded to protect him and
other Gods from the demon Krishna cursed the demon. With Krishna as
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the charioteer Satyabhama entered the battle field and killed the demon
Narakasura. The killing of this demon symbolises victory of good over
evil. It is also said that Bhudevi, mother of the slain demon Narakasura,
declared that his death should not be mourned but celebrated. Since
then, Diwali is being celebrated by people as a joyous occasion
complete with fireworks and fun.
It is also said that on this day Godess Lakhshmi emerged from the
ocean of milk. It was on this day that this goddess blessed mankind with
prosperity and wealth. Hence it is said that every home that is cleaned
and worships the goddess is visited by the goddess herself.
Five days of Diwali Dhanteras:
On this day people buy gold or some metallic object as making such a
purchase is considered auspicious
Narak Chaturdasi : This day is chhoti (small) Diwali and is celebrated
with equal fervour as the main day. People light diyas and burn Diwali
crackers on this day
Diwali (Lakshmi Puja): This is the main Diwali day and people light diyas,
draw rangolis on their doorstep and worship Goddess Lakshmi. Several
people also send Diwali e-cards to each other and visit friends and
exchange Diwali sweets
Govardhan puja: On this day, Govardhan Pooja is performed. Many
years back, Lord Krishna asked the people of Vraja to perform this puja.
From then on, every year Hindus worship Govardhan on this day
Bhai Dhuj: On this day brothers visit their sisters to enquire about their
well being. So the next time around while celebrating Diwali you will
know the legends behind this special festival.
Durga Puja
Durga puja is a festival for which every true Bengali waits all year long.
Celebrated by giving gifts, attending puja pandals and having festive
meals together, Durga puja holds a special place in every Bengalis
heart.
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About Maa Durga : Durga literally means she who is difficult to reach in
Sanskrit. Goddess Durga is worshipped as a form of Shakti or energy.
She represents the infinite energy of the universe and is a symbol of
undying dynamism. Goddess Durga is also popularly called by other
names like Parvati, Ambika and Kali. She is known as the wife of Lord
Shiva and mother of Ganesha, Karttikeya and daughters Lakshmi and
Saraswati.
Her appearance
In pictures and idols Goddess Durga is usually seen having 10 hands
holding a sword, conch, discus, rosary, bell, wine cup, shield, bow, arrow
and a spear. She is seen riding a lion. She is mostly dressed a blood red
sari and wears many ornaments. She wears a crown too on her glorious
head.
As the legend goes: Goddess Durga was forced to arrive when monster
demon Mahishasur gained strength and started troubling Gods and
people alike. The Gods were afraid of this demon because neither Lord
Vishnu nor Shiva could defeat him. It was Maa Durgas energy that
could alone defeat Mahishasur.
Goddess Durga sat on a lion and conquered and killed the demon
and restored peace in heaven that was robbed ever since Mahishasur
gained strength. Since then Durga Maa is invoked to celebrate her
victory over evil.
The revered Goddess
Goddess Durga has been worshipped from 400 AD. Her literary
references date back to the Ramayana and Mahabharata and her name
is also mentioned in the ancient puranas. In general, Maa Durga is
worshipped in North India as the gentle bride symbolising family unity
while in South India she is worshipped for the warrior in her.
Celebrating the festival
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Durga puja begins with recitation and listening of Mahalaya. Thousands
gather to offer prayers to their ancestors at the city's river. Special
pre dawn chanting is rendered to mark the beginning of the three-day
celebrations. The celebratory mood builds up as Dhakis (drummers)
beat drums in a rhythmic manner.
The main puja is for three days - Mahasaptami, Mahaastami,
Mahanavami. Priests chant mantras, shlokas and artis are sung.
Hundreds of people line up before the decorated crowded pandals.
Along with pujas even recreational songs and dances are organised.
People sit together and have huge lunches and dinners and interact
with other members of the community. Though in the 1600s this was
a festival meant for the rich zamindars (landlords) Durga puja has now
become a community festival. People forget the differences of caste and
class when they assemble to seek divine blessings. After the three days
of puja, on Dashami, a tearful farewell is bid to the revered Goddess.
Thus Durga puja is undoubtedly the largest festival celebrated in Bengal.
Dussehra
Dussehra is a popular festival celebrated by theHinducommunity all
over India, with different names and styles of celebrations. In some parts
of the country Dussehra is also called Vijayadashmi - Vijay meaning
victory and Dashmi meaning the tenth day. It was on this day that Lord
Rama defeated and killed the demon king Ravana of Lanka and rescued
his abducted wifeSitafrom Ravanas clutches. In other words, Dussehra
is a festival that marks the triumph of good over evil.
Celebration in North India
Particularly in North India Dussehra is celebrated by re enacting this
huge tussle between Lord Rama and Ravana. The stage is set and
huge effigies of Ravana, brother Kumbhkarna and son Meghnath
are erected in vast open grounds. Fireworks and crackers are too
placed inside the effigies. Actors dressed as Rama, his wife Sita and
brotherLakshmanenact the battle scene in front of a large audience.
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After the scene is enacted the character playing Rama shoots an arrow
at the three effigies and the crackers catch fire. This marks the victory of
good over evil.
Celebrations in Bengal
Bengalis celebrate Dusshera as the last part ofDurgaPuja. This is the
last day of Durga puja. This day is dedicated to MotherGoddessShakti.
It was Goddess Durga who is a combination of divine energies of Lord
Brahma (creator),Vishnu(operator) and Mahesh (destroyer) and all
the other lords. This Goddess arrived when demon Mahishasur gained
strength and began troubling Gods and men alike. It was this Shakti maa
who freed Gods from the demons ugly clutches.
On Dusshera, the idols of Goddess Durga are immersed into a water
body, after nine days of continuous revelry and celebration. It is said that
the people of Bengal consider Goddess Durga as their daughter and
like every daughter she pays a visit to her home every year on the last
four days of Navratri. She is also said to bring her sonsGaneshaand
Kartikeya and daughters Lakshmi andSaraswatialong. Durga is known
to finally leave for her husband's place on Dusshera day. Goddess
Durga is received with the same enthusiasm in Orissa and Assam as
well. Huge fares and community programmes are held in Her honour.
Celebration in South India
In the southern states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, Dusshera is celebrated
in a special way. This day is considered auspicious for starting education
in any art form like dance, music or fine arts. Saraswati puja is also
done on this day. In Karnataka, especially Mysore and Andhra Pradesh,
Dusshera is celebrated with huge fanfare. Huge celebratory processions
are staged in these states.
Thus Dusshera is one of the major festivals celebrated by people across
the country.
Onam
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Onam is the festival to welcome the home coming of King
Mahabali in Kerala. Onam marks the biggest festival of the southern
state in Kerala. It is celebrated in the months of August &September.
Festivities are spread over ten days and begin with Atham and end with
Tiruonam. On the first day, people have bath early in the morning and
offer prayers.
To welcome King Mahabali Poookalam, floral designs are prepared in
the courtyard by women in the house. A grand procession is organized
to symbolize the kings tour in the city and back to his fort.
Pookalam making continues on all ten days it is the flower mat making
activity engaged by the women folk in their front yard. The second and
third day are Chithira and Chodi. People organize get together's and
exchange gifts on Chodi. It is an occasion to call upon a shopping spree
for the entire family as the tradition of exchanging gifts has been there
since a long time. Children get it in the form of blessings and silver coins.
After the harvest is done, the farm produce is distributed by the elders
among family members and even the domestic helpers get their due.
With change in time the gifts have also changed to modern day goodies.
On the fourth day, Visakam a special meal called Onasadya is prepared.
A legend behind the delicacies prepared on Visakam is that King
Mahabali requested God to allow him to visit his kingdom every year
and the same was granted. This nine course meal with not less than 64
dishes is prepared for his very homecoming. The platter of delicacies is
served in a traditional manner on a banana leaf. Though the entire meal
is special, rice is the most important recipe on the menu.
The other items on the menu are pappad, salt, banana wafers,
sarkarapuratti, ginger lime and mango pickles, 'vellarika', 'pavakka',
beetroot
and
'ullikitchadi'.
'Kitchadi'
made
of
pineapple
andbananasplitsor of grapes and apple too are served.
The cuisines made this day actually are to invite the king. The fifth day is
Anizham, the day of boat race event called Vallimkali. This event is one
of the major attractions for national and international tourists. The snake
boats race on the rhythm of the boats songs called the vanchipattu. An
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ancient story that runs around the boat race says that the snakes like
boats were built to save food from pirates. This food is prepared for
Gods in Arunmulla temple.
The sixth day is the Thriketa or the day of carnival. Lots of traditional
programmes including the songs and dances are held to mark this day.
The celebrations continue through the days of Moolam, Pooradam,
Uthradam and Thiruvonam.
Onam is also the harvest festival, on Uthradam the harvest is brought
home by the farmers. Another feature of Onam is the grand elephant
procession. Elephants on the occasion are decorated with golden
ornaments and flowers and paraded through streets.
Holi
Holi-Festival of Colours
Over the years, the festival of colours Holi has been associated with
freshness and happiness. It has majorly influenced Bollywood and the
Indian film industry. It has become a tradition in Hindi films to essay the
festival of holi. Whether it is Navrang or Silsila or Baghbaan all have
picturized glorious Holi songs. These songs have been well received by
the people across nation.
Holi the festival of colours is marked with fervour and gaiety by almost
everybody in India. Holi comes in the Falgun maas of the Hindu calandar
and March of the English calendar year. Holi is one of the favourite
festivals among children and youth as they are the ones who engage in
it the most.
The festival revolves around the much acknowledged legend of Bhakt
Prahlad and King Hiranyakashap. Prahlad worshipped God Vishnu and
revolted against his father Hiranyakashyap who dictated his kingdom
and ordered that everyone should worship the king. When Prahlad
disobeyed this order, his sister Holika suggested burning Prahlad alive.
But instead Holika got burnt.
The other legend says that people mark the occasion of Holi with
colours to signify the story of Radha Krishna playing Holi. Shri Krishna
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was advised by mother Yashoda to colour Radhas face to darken her
complexion.
For centuries people have been observing two auspicious days of
Holi in the Falgun maas i.e. a day before holi and the main day. The
celebrations begin with bonfire and organize Holi get togethers and play
with colours. Instruments like the water balloons, pichkaris and colours
form a part of the preparations for playing Holi.
People have now come to realize the importance of an eco friendly Holi
and environment cleanliness. People prefer organic and natural colours.
A lot of care is taken in choosing colours that cause no harm to the
environment, less water is used to play & clean off the colour and usage
of colours that do not damage skin and eyes are used. Even the bonfire
on this occasion is also brunt with tree branches, straw and charcoal to
avoid pollution.
After playing with colours, comes the time to enjoy delicacies made for
the occasion. Different types of items are prepared in different parts
of the country. These include sweets and snacks. Some of the sweet
preparations are the usual ones while some prepare special ones like
shrikhand, jalebi and not to forget Thandai.
During the evenings, meeting & greeting family & friends begin which
goes on for the next two-three days. Often exchange of sweets and gifts
take place on these Holi Milan at these meetings. Besides, gifts are sent
to friends and relations. A wide range of greeting cards, short messages,
e-cards are being used these days along with the age old technique of
sending cards through letters and telegrams relatives and friends that
cannot that stay away from home.
Janmashtami
The birth of Lord Krishna was the incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This
incarnation was for ending the reign of evil Kansa whose atrocities had
been troubling mankind. Janmashtami is observed is the Shravan maas
on the eighth day, the birth falls in Rohini nakshatra that is in the months
of August-September.
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It is ceremonious to rain heavily on the night lord Krishna was born. It
is said that Lord Krishna was born on a stormy night on a rainy day.
All rituals and puja happen after the birth of Krishna i.e. after midnight.
Krishna Janma is celebrated with great enthusiasm throughout the
country. The preparations begin much before the day of Janmashtami.
A cradle is decorated with flowers and decorations. New clothes and
jewellery is made to order for Bal Krishna.
Celebrations resound for two days. The first day is the day before
midnight. Before Janma all the enthusiast devotees throng temples
and sing bhajans and songs signifying Krishna Janma. After the birth,
the ceremony of child birth and bhog (dishes offered after puja) and
aarti is done. The bhog consists of 56 varieties of food. People who
observe fast on Janmashtami break it with Prasad. Next day after birth,
is Kalashtami.
The fervour of the festival is most in Mathura and Vrindavan which have
been mentioned to be the places of Krishna leela in the mythology. The
zeal among the people is much more than at any other place. People
place the baby idol of Lord Krishna in the Grabh Griha (where he was
born) before midnight. Devotees keep singing the bhajans and aartis all
through the night and stories depicting Krishna Leela are chanted to add
to the flavour of the night. Post birth, Abhishek is done with milk, ghee,
curd butter, water and flowers. Some also prepare Panchamrit (milk,
ghee, oil, honey and Gangajal) for the Abhishek.
Rasleela is the traditional dance performed by all the devotees. Another
ceremony performed is Dahi Handi. Dahi Handi is an earthen pot filled
with curd hanged at a height. This pot is meant to be broken by young
men. These men symbolize Bal Krishna and his friends. The Dahi handi
is specially celebrated in Mathura, Vrindavan, Dwarka and Mumbai.
To show the various life stages of Shri Krishna, tableaux are taken out.
Children, men and women dressed in colourful traditional ghagra and
cholis, dhoti kurta sing and dance along the floats. People stop and
welcome the tableaux at various places. Some also perform aarti to the
idols.
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It is a festival observed around the world. The chain of temples like
ISKON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) which work
towards preaching teachings of Lord Krishna, observe Janmashtami.
The Hindu community across the globe comes together and celebrates
the birth of Lord Krishna.
Karwa Chauth
Karwa Chauth is a fast kept by married women and girls likely to
get married for the well being and long life of her husband. This is one
festival eagerly looked forward by all women in India. The festival be
celebrated on a great scale and involves everybody, although it is only
for women.
It is mostly observed by women belonging to the regions of Punjab,
Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and other states
that form a part of the Hindi speaking belt of the nation. Preparation for
the festival begins much before.
The preparations comprise of shopping new clothes and jewellery,
sweets and snacks and applying mehendi on the palms of women.
Markets are flooded with these items many days before Karwa Chauth.
Different regions have different meanings for the festival. In Punjab it
means well being and long life of the husband, in Rajasthan it is known
as Vat Purnima. Women here fast to get married to the same man as
husband for all seven lives and fill mud pot with rice and wheat which
are known as the Karwas. For women in Uttar Pradesh, women pray to
Goddess Gauri, moon and sun. They draw pictures of these Gods, make
karwas and perform puja.
The rituals followed are more or less in all regions. The festival is
important for new brides. Customarily they get gifts of jewellery and
clothes from their mother in law.
A lot of stories have been associated with Karwa Chauth. The well
known ones are that of Queen Veeravati, Satyawan-Savitri and
Draupadi. All three ladies in these stories were encouraged to fast for
their husbands long life and well being. They prayed to Goddess Gauri
and God Shankar on the occasion.
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Along with these mythological stories, there is also a belief that drives
through the festival. It is said that the festival is also to give ode to the
friendship between two women. In the olden days, when girls were
married in childhood, it was a common practice to befriend another girl
in the village of the in laws. This girl would come forward to help the
friend in time of crises created by her in laws and husband. Slowly, the
festival of Karwa Chauth started becoming an occasion to celebrate this
friendship. Even now, Karwa Chauth is celebrated by women along with
their family and friends.
Customs have not changed much though; even now brides receive
Sargi, Baya gifts in the form of jewellery and clothes from in-laws and
husbands. All these gifts are considered very significant as they are
gifted to married women and the gifts symbolize their happy marriage
or suhag. Items like bangles, jewellery, colourful clothes and mahendi
are all considered auspicious.
Mother-in-laws gift 'sargi' to their daughter-in-laws. It is a collection of
food of various types of sweetmeats and sometime clothes. It is meant
to be eaten before sunrise. The fast starts before sunrise and ends
after moon rise. The Baya or the thali (plate) which is exchanged by the
women in the evening at the time of puja is gifted by the new brides
parents to her husband. Baya contains few Mathis, Almonds and some
gifts.
Jewellery still is considered as an important gift on the occasion. The
jewellery market starts flooding with new designs that match with the
latest fashion. Talking of clothes many fashion studios have started
designing lenhenga cholis for Karwa Chauth. Mehendi is considered a
symbol of good fortune for married women, in the Indian culture. The
traditional mehendi designs have also seen a lot of change. Marwadi,
Bombay and Arabian, chemical mehendis are all in demand and address
women of all ages. The latest among the designs are the henna tattoos
which are easy to apply, quickly and look fabulous. These come as body
art and can be applied on the back, arms, feet etc.
Maha shivaratri
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Mahashrivratri is one of the occasions which is celebrated
throughout the county. People believe that Shivratri was the day when
Lord Shiv and GoddessParvatitied the nuptial knot. It falls in the month
of February or March ( in the Falgun Maas as perHinducalendar).
The occasion is marked by observing fast among men, women including
children. By midnight, devotees perform puja and offer fruits, flowers and
bel pratra (leaves of Bel tree) on the Shiv Linga. It is a belief that the bel
patra is important to perform puja on this day.
As a custom, theShivaLinga is given a bath or Abhishek with milk, curd,
ghee, flowers and cow dung. Devotees throng Shiv temples on Shivratri,
sing and dance to the tunes of the devotional songs all through the night.
For women in the Indian society, this festival has special meaning.
Women observe fast for the well being and life of their husbands. As per
the beliefs,GoddessParvati had fasted for years together to impress
Lord Shiv and pursued him to marry her. Women also perform puja of
Shiv and Gauri.
Traditionally, on Shivratri, the day begins early with a bath and by
sunrise a puja is done. The bath taken on the occasion is with water
boiled with black sesame seeds which cleans body impurities. Shiv
Purana is read and chanted at homes and temples all day. The six items
used in the puja have special significance. Like water is for purity, milk
for purity and piousness, curd for prosperity and progeny, honey for a
sweet thoughts and words, ghee for victory and sugar for happiness.
Wood apple or bel leaves are used for purification of the soul, fruits
symbolize longevity and gratification of desires, incense sticks or dhub
is for wealth, the lamp or diya is the symbol of knowledge while the
bel leave shows the satisfaction with world pleasures and desires and
the chanting of Om Namah Shivay sets people free from the sins
committed by them.
The fast breaks next morning with Prasad offered to Lord Shiv. There
are many devotees who observe fast without any food and water. It is
considered as an important fast as it frees a person from the cycle of
birth and death.
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There are special programmes held at the twelve Jyotirlingas throughout
the country. Special shringar (decorations) on the Shiv Linga are done
with rice, flowers, dry fruits, bel leaves. Tandava, the dance of creation,
prevention, destruction, salvation and illusion done by Lord Shiv is
performed on the occasion. All the twelve Jyotirlingas are thronged by
devotees since morning to watch the Tandava performed by the Pujaris
on the occasion. Another interesting part is that the shringar draws
devotees to the temples.
Naag Panchami
Naag Pachami is a Hindu festival celebrated to worship snakes. Snakes
are considered sacred in the Hindu mythology; right from times when
mankind attained a culture, they have been invoked with prayers. The
festival is celebrated on the fifth day of moonlit fortnight in the month of
Shravan; sometime in the month of July or August.
Mythology:
There are various stories and myths associated with the festival. Hindus
believe that the thousand headed Sheesh Naag who is a symbol of
eternity is the couch of Lord Vishnu and therefore the Naag has to be
worshipped. Also it is an age old belief that serpents are loved and
blessed by Lord Shiva, they are an inseparable part of his existence and
thus serpents are worshipped on this auspicious day.
The most popular legend is about Lord Krishna. When he was a child
playing with other village boys, he fell in the river trying to fetch a ball.
Kaliya, was an extremely dangerous serpent in the lake but Krishna
overcame it using his powers and saved the villagers from its terror.
Another famous story is of the Snake and Farmers daughter. The farmer
and his family had been bitten by an angry snake. They got restored
to life when their eldest daughter prayed to the snake God asking
forgiveness for any wrong she or her family had done.
Celebrations:
Naag Panchami is celebrated throughout India but greater festivities are
seen in the Southern states. Also the celebrations vary in different parts
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of the country.
Hindu's believe that praying to snakes will keep them happy and safe
fromsnakebites. Snakes are fed with milk and fruits on this day. People
take blessings of the snakes. They worship Naga Devatas (Cobras).
Unmarried Hindu maidens believe that fasting and performing certain
rituals will help them find suitable men for marriage.
Rituals in different states:
The village of Baltis Shirale, which is situated approximately 400
kilometers from Mumbai, conducts the most outstanding celebrations.
The largest collection of snakes in the world can be found here. Visitors
from across the world gather in the village to worship live snakes.
In South India, people craft images of snakes using cow dung at the
entrance of their house to welcome the snake god. In Kerala, stone or
metal icons of the cosmic serpent Ananta or Sesha are worshipped and
offered milk and sweets as families pray for their welfare and prosperity.
In West Bengal and parts of Assam and Orissa Mansa, the queen of
serpents is worshipped and her blessings are taken.
In Maharashtra, Hindu women dress up for the puja of Naag-Devata.
They sprinkle haldi, kumkum and flowers on the snake, offer milk and
pray. Cash and old clothes are given to the snake-charmers.
In Punjab, the festival is celebrated sometime in September October
and is called Guga Naumi. A snake made from dough is taken around
the village where flour and butter is made as an offering from each
house. Later the snake is buried.
The festival is also celebrated in Nepal but the celebrations and belief
are different from India. Ancient Nepalese civilizations worshiped the
Nagas, or Serpent Kings, and believed that their relationship with the
gods and nature would secure their survival.
Ganesh Chaturthi
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Ganesh Chaturthi also known as 'Vinayak Chaturthi' or 'Vinayaka
Chavithi' is celebrated by Hindus as the birthday of Lord Ganesha. It
is celebrated during the Hindu month of Bhadra; the date usually falls
between mid August and September.
Although this festival is observed in all parts of the country, it is
celebrated with maximum fervour in Maharashtra. It is also popular in
Goa, Gujarat, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. Outside
India, it is celebrated widely in Nepal which is the only Hindu Kingdom in
the world.
Mythology:
The divine couple, Shiva and Parvati remained childless for a long time
after the birth of their first son Kartikeya. Parvati yearned for another son
and Shiva's long absence from home added to her loneliness. One day
she moulded a clay statue in the form of her son and used her powers
to instill life in it. And it did happen. She named him Ganesha and was
extremely happy to have him with her. She would leave him in charge to
take care of the house when she would attend to other chores. One day
while Parvati was busy bathing, Ganesha was guarding the entrance
of the house. Unaware of who Shiva was Ganesha stopped him from
entering; taken aback at being stopped Shiva was enraged. In a fit of
anger Shiva chopped off his head and threw it away. On hearing about
this Parvati lost her temper and demanded Shiva to restore her son to
life immediately. To fulfill Parvatis desire he set out to find the head,
unsuccessful in his attempts he promised to replace it with the head of
the next living form that came across. As the next living creature was
a baby elephant, so Shiva chopped off the elephant's head, fit it to the
lifeless body of Ganesha and revived him. To compensate his misdeed
Lord Shiva bestowed upon Ganesha the powers of a God and blessed
him that henceforth no activity will begin without invoking your name and
blessings. Since then it is said no new venture is complete by Hindus
without a Ganesha puja.
Celebrations:
Clay idols of Lord Ganesha are made a month prior to the festival.
The celebrations begin with the installation of beautifully sculpted
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Ganesha idols at homes and at public gatherings. Every morning and
evening prayers (Aartis) are performed and hymns are sung. Many
cultural events are organised for children and adults which are a major
attraction.
On the final day of the festival, the Ganesha idol is placed on raised
platforms with elaborately decorated outdoor. The priest then
invokes life into the idol amidst the chanting of mantras. This ritual is
called 'pranapratishhtha'. After this the 'shhodashopachara' follows.
Coconut, jaggery, modakas, durva blades and red flowers are offered.
Sandal paste is applied on the idol. Throughout the ceremony, Vedic
hymns from the Rig Veda and Ganapati Atharva Shirsha Upanishad,
and Ganesha stotra from the Narada Purana are chanted. Ladoos are
distributed, milk is offered to the idol of lord Ganesha and Ganesh puja
is performed.
For 10 days Ganesha is worshiped. On the 11th and final day, Ganesha
idols are immersed in rivers, lakes or sea, popularly called GaneshaVisarjan. The Visarjan symbolizes a ritual see-off of the Lord. With the
immersion of the idol the festival ends with pleas to Ganesha to return
the next year. This procession and immersion is accompanied by drumbeats, devotional songs and dancing.
Tilak's Contribution:
Ganesh Chaturthi was started by Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaja, the great
Maratha ruler. But the festival took a new meaning in the year 1893
when it was revived by Lokmanya Tilak to defy the British who had
banned public assemblies and spread the message of freedom struggle.
He popularized it as a national festival to bridge the gap between
people. He transformed it into a large public event which served as a
meeting ground for people of all castes and communities. The festival
gave the Indians a feeling of unity and revitalized their patriotic spirit and
faith.
Navratri festival
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Navratri is a Hindu festival celebrated for nine days worshipping the
various forms of Durga. Nav means nine and ratri means night, thus
the name meaning nine nights in Sanskrit.
It is celebrated five times a year - Vasanta Navaratri, Ashadha Navaratri,
Sharada Navaratri and Poushya/Magha Navaratri. Of these, Sharada
and Vasanta Navaratri are most important.
Vasanta Navaratri is the festival of nine days dedicated to the nine forms
of Devi, in the spring season. Sharad Navaratri is the most important of
the Navratris and often called Maha Navratri. It is called so since it is
celebrated during Sharad, i.e. beginning of winters, sometime in October
November. The Chaitra Navratri culminates to Ram Navami and the
Sharad Navratri in Durga Puja and Dussehra.
Celebrations:
The festival coincides with the end of the rainy season; considered
auspicious as it is associated with the sprouting of new seeds, a sign of
prosperity. Many people consider it the best time of the year to initiate
something new in their personal or professional lives.
It is celebrated in different ways throughout the country. During these
days the nine forms of Shakti - Durga, Bhadrakali, Amba, Annapurna,
Sarvamangala, Bhairavi , Chandika or Chandi, Lalita, Bhavani and
Mookambika are worshipped. Some people observe fasts for all the
nine days. The festival ends on Mahanavami. On this day, Kanya Puja
is performed. Nine young girls representing the nine forms of Goddess
Durga are worshipped. Their feet are washed and a puja is performed,
at the end of which they are given food, traditionally consisting of pudi,
chana and halwa. People who do not fast for all nine days do so on the
1st and 2nd or 1st and last or the last 2 days, since it is believed that the
fasts have to be kept in pairs.
The nine days are divided into sets of three days, each dedicated to
different Goddesses. The first three days are dedicated to Durga, also
known as Kali, the Goddess of power. On the next three days Lakshmi,
the Goddess of peace and prosperity is worshipped. The seventh
and eighth days are dedicated to Saraswati, the Goddess of wisdom.
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Devotees believe that one needs the blessings of all the three to be
successful in life.
Navratri is synonymous with Dandiya Rasa and Garba, the characteristic
folk dances of Gujarat. Both men and women dress in traditional attires.
Village girls bearing garbis (pots) on their heads go from house to house
and perform dances. The garbi has a diya burning inside which signifies
knowledge and the end of darkness. Dandiya-Rasa is performed mostly
by men. They dance in concentric circles and beat the dandiya sticks in
rhythm while performing.
Rituals across the country:
The last four days of Sharad Navratri are celebrated as Durga Puja in
West Bengal. It is the most important festival in Bengal. Elaborately
decorated clay idols of Goddess Durga depicting her slaying the demon
Mahisasura are set up in temples. The idols are worshipped for five days
and immersed in the river on the last day.
In North India the tenth day is celebrated as Dussehra, the festival which
marks the triumph of good over evil. Ram Lilas portraying the story of
Ramas life are performed. Huge images of Ravana are burnt, depicting
the end of evil.
In the Southern states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh
the festival is known as Kolu, it is celebrated for ten days. Women
decorate the houses with dolls and draw rangolis. Families gather to
display traditional wooden dolls, sing songs and depict scenes from
various epics. They also exchange sweets and gifts.
Pongal
Pongal, also known as Tamizhar Thirunal is one of the most popular
festivals of South India. This festival marks the end of winter season and
is around the time when the sun is moving towards North. The period is
referred to as Uttarayan Punyakalam and is considered auspicious.
It is celebrated from 12th to 15th January of which Pongal day falls
on the 14th of January. It is widely celebrated in Tamil Nadu, Andhra
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Pradesh and Karnataka. The name is derived from the dish - Pongal
which is cooked on the day and offered to the Gods, thanking them for
the harvest and their blessings.
Legends:
The festival has a few legends attached to it, signifying its importance.
The most popular one is about the first day of the celebrations. It is
believed that on this day Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan mountain
on his little finger to save people from being washed away by the rains.
Thus the Rain God, Indra is worshipped on this day.
Another legend associated with the festival is about the third day. Lord
Shiva sent Nandi, his bull, on earth to deliver his message to the people
- to have an oil bath everyday and eat food once a month. But Nandi
delivered the wrong message telling people to eat everyday and have
an oil bath once a month. Lord Shiva was unhappy with the outcome, he
told Nandi to remain on Earth and help people plough the fields, since
now they would need to grow more grains.
Celebrations:
Pongal is basically a harvest festival, the celebrations last for four days.
Each day has its own rituals and significance.
The first day is known as the Bhogi Pongal. On this day homes are
cleaned, washed and beautifully decorated. Doorways are decorated
with garlands of leaves and flowers. Indra, the Rain God also known as
Bhogi is worshipped.
The second day is called Surya Pongal or Perum Pongal. People
worship Surya, the Sun God. A bonfire is held in the evening and old
goods are thrown in the fire, it marks a new beginning. A tradition of
boiling fresh milk early morning and allowing it to boil over the vessel is
practiced on this day, it is considered to bring prosperity.
On the third day known as Mattu Pongal, the farm animals and cattle are
worshipped. They are bathed and decorated with garlands, kumkum is
apply on their foreheads and they are served sweet rice.
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The dish Pongal also referred to as Pongal rice or sweet rice is cooked
in a new earthen pot. Turmeric and ginger are tied around this pot.
Pongal recipe is an easy yet delicious one, a concoction of rice, milk,
and jaggery are boiled in the pot on an open fire. The first paddy that
is harvested is used to prepare it. When ready it is garnished with fried
cashew nuts and raisins. First it is offered to God, on a new banana leaf
along with other traditional delicacies such as vadai, murukku, payasam
and then eaten by other family members.
The fourth day is Thiruvalluvar day or Kaanum Pongal. People visit
family, friends and relatives; women perform pujas for their brothers.
People leave cooked rice on banana leaves for the birds. This day was
originally meant to thank relatives and friends for their support in the
harvest.
People dress up in traditional clothes. On all the four days during the
festival, they visit temples to seek the blessings of the Gods. They visit
close friends and relatives and exchange Pongal greetings; generally the
elders in the family gift the young ones. The festival brings happiness to
the household.
Raksha bandhan, Rakhi festival in India

Raksha Bandhan, popularly known asRakhiis one of the most
important festivals of India. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm in all
parts especially North India.
Rakhsha Bandhan signifies the pure and strong bond of love the
brother and sister share. Thus the festival derives its name, Raksha
which means protection and Bandhan meaning bond in Hindi. Rakhi
is a sacred thread that is tied on the wrist of the brother by the sister. It
indicates the brothers promise to protect the sister all his life.
Raksha Bandhan History Mythology:
There are a number of stories and legends associated with the festival.
According to the Mahabharatha, LordKrishnaextended Draupadis
sari infinitely to protect her from the cheer haran by Duryodhana. It is
believed he did this as a token of love for her as a sister since she once
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tied a strip of cloth from her sari to prevent bleeding from his wrist.
During the Medieval era there were constant wars between the Rajputs,
Mughals and Sultans.RaniKarnavati the widowed queen of the king
of Chittor sent a rakhi to EmperorHumayunwhen she realised that
she couldnt defend the invasion of Bahadur Shah. The Emperor was
touched by her gesture; he immediately left to help her, abandoning an
ongoing military campaign.
According to another myth the Demon King Bali was a great devotee
of Lord Vishnu. LordVishnuhad taken the task to guard his kingdom
leaving his own abode. GoddessLakshmiwent to Bali disguised as
a Brahmin woman to seek refuge till her husband came back. During
theShravanPurnima celebrations, Lakshmi tied the sacred thread to
the King revealing her true identity and reason for stay. The King was
moved and requested Lord Vishnu to accompany her back.
Raksha Bandhan Celebrations:
The day begins with a bath and getting dressed for the occasion,
generally in traditional clothes. Celebrations start by brothers and
sisters offering prayers to God. The sister applies tikka on the brothers
forehead, ties rakhi on his wrist and performs an aarti. The brother
promises to protect her from all problems and evils; the sister prays for
his long life. Both of them feed each other sweets. The brother presents
a gift to his sister.
Raksha Bandhan Gifting options:
These days different varieties of rakhi are available in the market; right
from designer ones like Zardosi, gold and silver to cartoon designs for
toddlers. The tradition of brother gifting the sister on this auspicious day
has been carried on since ages; it is basically a token of his love for
her. There are numerous gifting options available, knowing your sisters
preferences eases the process of choosing the appropriate Rakhi gift for
her. Clothes, accessories, chocolates, jewellery, perfumes or watches
just about anything can be gifted.
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A personalized card along with the gift would be a perfect package
for the occasion.Another option is to order an online Rakhi gift.
Placing online orders has numerous advantages; it not only saves
time and is more convenient, it also provides greater number of
options. Customization and multiple payment options are other added
benefits. Guaranteed on-time delivery ensures that the gift reaches
your sister anywhere in the world on the day of Rakhi.
Guru Nanak Jayanti

Guru Nanak Jayanti is the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, the first
Sikh Guru and the founder of Sikhism. Guru Nanak Dev was born on 14
April 1469 in Rai-Bhoi-di Talwandi in the present Shekhupura District
of Pakistan. Guru Nanaks birthday falls on Kartik Poornima which is
sometime in the month of November.
Guru Nanak Jayanti is celebrated by the Sikh community all over the
world and is one of the most important and sacred festivals in the Sikh
calendar. In India the celebrations are particularly elaborate in the states
of Punjab and Haryana.
Guru Nanak Jayanti Celebrations:
Birth anniversaries of Sikh Gurus are called Guru Purabs. On the
occasion of Nanak Jayanti there are Prabhat Pheris, the early morning
procession that start from the Gurdwaras, go around localities
singing 'shabads'. People of all age groups participate enthusiastically.
The celebrations include the three-day Akhand path during which the
holy book, the Guru Granth Sahib is read continuously, from beginning
to end without a break. After the Akhand Path the holy book is then
taken out in a procession, decorated with flowers and carried on a float.
Five armed guards, representing the Panj Pyares, head the procession
carrying Nishan Sahibs, the Sikh flag. They are followed by groups of
singers singing hymns, brass bands playing different tunes; 'Gatka'
teams (martial arts) display their swordsmanship.
Later there is Langar arranged by the volunteers at the Gurudwaras.
In the evening, the Gurdwaras are beautifully illuminated and special
kirtans are arranged. On the occasion of Nanak Jayanti the leaders
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spread the message of Guru Nanak and remind people of his teachings.
Life of Guru Nanak Dev:
Born to Mehta Kalu Chand, the village accountant and his wife Tripta,
Guru Nanak had a childhood unlike the others. At a very young
age he started talking about God. He spent time meditating and
doingspiritualpractices. He studiedHinduismand Islam, travelled all
over India and few other countries and preached true love and worship
of God. He was married to Sulakhani and had two sons Srichand and
Lakshmichand. He passed away in 1539 and was succeeded by nine
Gurus.
Teachings of Guru Nanak:
He was a great poet, philosopher and teacher. Guru Nanak has also
been called the Prophet of Punjab and Sind. He preached goodness
and the love of God. He didnt believe in discriminating humans on the
basis of religion, caste, creed or colour. He carried the message of oneness of mankind through his several travels or udasis, which are said to
have extended over three decades.
The Holy Text - Shri Guru Granth Sahib:
The holy book of the Sikhs, Shri Guru Granth Sahib popularly known
as Adi Granth is of 1430 pages containing the actual words spoken by
the ten Gurus. Initially it contained the hymns of the first five Gurus. It
was collected, arranged and formed into one volume called Guru Granth
Sahib by the fifth Guru. It contained a few selections from the hymns of
Kabir and other contemporary Vaishnavite saints. Later the hymns of the
ninth Guru were incorporated in the holy Granth byGuruGobindSingh,
the tenth and last Sikh Guru. The Sikhs treat the Granth Sahib as their
Guru. A copy of the Granth is kept in every Gurudwara.
Lohri
Lohri is a popular festival celebrated on the 13th of January every
year. The first association with the name is Punjabi Lohri since it is an
Page 26
exclusive Punjabi festival, celebrated with great enthusiasm in the states
of Punjab and Haryana. It is traditionally associated with the harvest of
the rabi crop.
Celebrated a day before Makara Sankranthi, it marks the end of the
winter season. It is essentially a festival dedicated to the Fire and the
Sun God.
It marks the movement of the sun towards the north as opposed to the
south. It is referred to as the sun becoming Uttarayan, considered to
be an extremely auspicious time. People believe that the Lohri night
the longest night of the year and from the next day light is meant to
increase.
History of Lohri :
The origin of the festival is related to Dulla Bhatti, a robber who lived in
Punjab during the reign of Emperor Akbar. Besides robbing the rich, he
rescued Hindu girls who were forcibly taken to be sold in slave market
of the Middle East. He got them married to Hindu boys and provided
them with dowries. He gained respect of the people and became a hero.
Therefore every Lohri song has lyrics expressing gratitude to him.
Some people believe that the word Lohri comes from the word loh, a
thick iron sheet tawa used for baking chapattis while others believe the
festival has derived its name from Loi, wife of Saint Kabir.
Lohri Celebrations:
With the setting of the sun huge bonfires are lit and people gather
around them to celebrate the Lohri festival. Dressed in rich colours
people circle around the bonfire (parikrama), offering prayer to the Fire
God. They throw puffed rice, peanuts and popcorn into the fire. After the
prayers are offered prashad is distributed, consisting of til, gajak, gur,
peanuts and popcorn.
The celebrations are marked by traditional songs and dances. Folk
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songs are sung and both men and women dance around the fire
celebrating the spirit of the festival. While the popular male dances are
the Bhangra, Jhoomer, Luddi, Julli and Dankara, the female dances
include Giddha and Kikli. A traditional dinner of makki-di-roti and sarsonda-saag is served. Rau di kheer is served as dessert.
In houses that recently had a marriage or childbirth, the celebrations
are at their peak. The first Lohri of the newlyweds and new born babies
are important and considered auspicious. The festival instills a spirit of
brotherhood and unity and generates happiness.
It is an occasion for friends and relatives to meet, exchange gifts and
greetings and spend time together. Lohri cards are a special way to
express wishes on this occasion. There are special cards for friends,
family, relatives, and newlywed couples among others. They usually
depict themes like brotherhood, love, unity, peace and prosperity. Ecards are gaining more popularity than normal cards. The advantage
they have is that they can be personalized; available in a wide range of
colours and themes with special Lohri songs and quotes, they express
the right emotions.
Maghi is the day following Lohri. According to Hindus this is an
auspicious day to take a holy dip in the river and give away charity. On
this day sweets are prepared with sugar cane juice.
It is said A good Lohri sets the tone for the whole year ahead the
more joyous and bountiful the occasion, the greater will be peace and
prosperity
Eid ul Fitr
Eid ul-Fitr popularly called Eid is an Islamic festival. The term 'Eid' has
been derived from the Arabic word oud, which means the return
implying the return of the festival each year; Fitr means to breakfast.
Celebrated after the end of the Islamic month of Ramadan, on the first
day of Shawwal, it symbolizes the breaking of the fasting period.
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Celebrations:
It is one of most important festivals for Muslims across the world. Eidul-Fitr celebrations vary across countries; in South Asian countries like
India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal the celebrations are for three
days. Eid is a public holiday and the festival is celebrated all over India.
The night before Eid is called Chand Raat meaning night of the moon.
The festival begins with the sighting of the new crescent moon in the
evening of the last day of Ramadan. People rejoice at the sight of the
moon which signifies an end to their month-long fast and the beginning
of celebrations.
People decorate their homes and buy new clothes for themselves.
Women apply mehendi (heena) on their hands and wear colourful
traditional clothes and bangles. Sweets are prepared at home.
People wake up early in the morning, after having a bath, get dressed in
their best clothes. They have a light breakfast, generally dates, before
they leave to attend the special Eid prayer called Salah. Women are
exempted from this prayer. The prayer is performed publicly at mosques
or open areas or fields which can accommodate large number of people.
Salah is followed by Khutbah and then dua where people ask Allah for
forgiveness. People embrace the person sitting on either side wishing
them Eid. People generally visit graveyards after Salah to pray for the
departed family members, a custom known as Ziyarat al-qubur.
People visit their friends, relatives and acquaintances and greet
each other by saying Eid-Mubarak, they exchange wishes and
gifts. According to the tradition, exchanging gifts on the holy festival
strengthens the bond of love between people. Religious books, CDs,
clothes, dry fruits and sweets are some admired Eid gifts. Sending Eid
greeting cards to loved ones who are far off is a great way to express
your sentiments on the occasion. Eid cards are gaining popularity since
they can be given in person, sent through courier or over the internet in
the form of e-cards. They are available in various themes for friends and
family. Children are given small sums of money (Eidi) on the day by their
elders.
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Significance:
Eid-ul-Fitr is a distinctive festival. It doesnt have any connections with
any historical event or changes of seasons or harvest and agriculture
like a lot of Hindu festivals. Its importance is purely spiritual. It is the
day when the Muslims thank Allah for everything he has given them
including the will to successfully keep all fasts. It is believed that He
gives infinitely to those who are sincerely concerned with the general
welfare of their fellow believers. Eid is a day when Muslims ask Allah
for forgiveness for their sins. The festival brings happiness, spreads the
message of brotherhood, peace and prosperity.
Moharram
Muharram is the month that marks the beginning of the year according to
the Islamic calendar. It is one of four months that have been designated
as holy and is the most important second only to the month of Ramadan.
Fasting is advocated in this month. Though it is not mandatory it is
encouraged since there is a belief that those who fast during these days
will be greatly rewarded by Allah. Fighting is prohibited in the four sacred
months and that is where it derives its name from, haram meaning
forbidden.
The tenth day of the month is called Ashura and holds significance
because the death of Imam Husain is mourned.
History:
In this month, many centuries ago (approximately 680 A.D.) a tragedy
took place in Kerbala, Iraq on the bank of the river Euphrates. A large
army, which had been mobilised by the Umayyad regime, besieged a
group of 72 people and pressurized them to pay allegiance to the Caliph
of the time and submit to his authority. The Caliph was a man deviated
from the Islamic way of life. They were deprived of food and water and
underwent extreme sufferings. The group resisted and a severe battle
took place in which they were all killed. The leader of the group was
Imam Husain, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad.
Celebrations:
The festival starts at the 1st day of Muharram and lasts for 10 days. It is
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of importance for Shia Muslims as they mourn the death of Imam Husain
and the Karbala tragedy. They wear black clothes and keep themselves
away from any kind of joy or celebration. Majalis are held every day
during the first nine days where orators relate the incident of the
martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain and his party in detail. Mainstream
Shia Muslims fast until the evening.
On the 10th day, Ashura - large processions are formed and the devoted
followers parade the streets holding banners and carrying taziyas
(bamboo and paper replicas of the martyr's tomb). The mourners walk
barefoot to the beat of drums. Everyone in the procession chants "Ya
Hussain", with loud shouting and weeping. Some Shia sects whip
themselves to express grief.
During these first ten days of Muharram, drinking posts are also set up
temporarily by the Shia community where water and juices are served
free of cost.
While Shia Muslims consider Ashura to be a sorrowful occassion,
Sunni Muslims consider it as a festival and celebrate Asura keeping the
religious aspect intact. Pious Sunnis keep a fast as per the Hadith of
Prophet Muhammad. Usually they fast either on the 9th and 10th day or
on the 10th and 11th day of the month.
On the evening of the 12th day people stay awake all night, reading
the Quran and reciting verses in honour of Husain. On the 13th day
particular food is cooked and given to the poor after saying the fatihah
over it. With this act of charity the celebrations come to an end
Ram Navami
Ram Navami is a Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Rama in
Ayodhya. Rama was the eldest son of King Dasharatha and Queen
Kausalya and was the 7th incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Lord Rama
is a legendary figure; he is an epitome of truth and goodness and
represents the victory of good over evil. His birth is celebrated with great
enthusiasm in all parts of the country.
Ram Navami History and Mythology:
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Lord Rama is the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu who came down to
earth to battle Ravana. Lord Brahma had received complaints from
all the gods about the havoc that Ravana was creating on earth, but
because Ravana had so many boons, he could not be killed by a God.
So Lord Vishnu descended to the earth in the form of Prince Rama.
King Dasharatha had three wives Kausalya, Sumitra and Kaikeyi.
Their greatest worry was that they had no children, which meant
no heir to the throne. Rishi Vasistha suggested King Dusharatha to
perform Puthra Kamesthi Yagna so that he could have children. Maha
Rishi Rishyasrunga came to Ayodhya to perform the yagna. As a result
of the yagna Yagneshwar appeared and provided a bowl of Kheer
to King Dashratha and told him to distribute it among his wives. The
queens had their share of khaar and a few days later conceived.
On the ninth day of the last month of Vedic calendar (Chaithra masa)
Kausalya gave birth to Rama at noon. This day is celebrated with great
joy all over the country especially in the Northern part.
Celebrations:
Ram Navami falls in the Shukla Paksha on the Navami, ninth day of
the month of Chaitra in the Hindu calendar which is sometime in April.
It marks the end of the nine-day Chaitra-Navratri celebrations. At some
places the festival lasts for complete nine days, the period is also
called Sri Rama Navaratra.
Temples are elaborately decorated and traditional prayers are
chanted. Special havans and large scale kirtans are organized. The
occasion is marked by continuous recitals, Akhand Paath, mostly of the
Ramacharitamanas.
Ram Navami Bhajans in praise of Lord Rama and his valour are sung.
Images of infant form of Sri Rama are placed on cradles and rocked by
devotees. Prashad is distributed after the puja and aarti.
In South India, the day is also celebrated as Sitarama Kalyanam,
the wedding anniversary of Sri Rama and his wife Sita. The wedding
ceremony of the couple is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy.
Page 32
Ayodhya , Bhadrachalam and Rameswaram are the three important
places of celebration. Thousands of devotees visit these places on this
occasion. Shobha yatras of Rama, Sita, Lakshmana and Hanuman, are
taken out at several places. Thousands of devotees take a dip in the
sacred river Sarayu on this day.
Christmas
A celebration the world partakes is a festival of the catholic community.
It is awhiteChristmasin the colder countries as the snow beautifully
covers the trees, houses and every establishment. This scenic site adds
peace to the overall environment ushering a magnificent Christmas.
With schools off for a fortnight and colleges for a few days, parents take
leave from their daily routine for an outing with their family. Christmas
pronounces togetherness of families and hence, people head home from
their work areas to meet their parents, siblings and relatives. No doubt
Christmas holidays are the most sought after the year through.
A large dinner is cooked for everyone to sit and chat only after the
prayers are said jointly or by holding each others hand. Gifts are
exchanged on Christmas day and the day after. Each and every member
of the family is gifted especially the younger ones.
But way before the festival begins, people clean up their homes, add
new furnishing and put upChristmasdecorationsall over the place. Not
forgetting the wreath on the door. TheChristmastreeis a symbol that
the festivities have begun. Taller the tree, more the embellishments
and grander the last look. Next is to buy presents, Christmas presents
have a different charm about them as they add a glow to the receivers
face. But one has to think on gift ideas as these gifts are supposed to be
meaningful and qualitative.
SantaClausis the heart of theChristmascelebrationsas kids love to
meet father Claus. After all he gives them gifts, lets them sit on his lap
and whisper the gift they want, take a ride with the reindeer and mingle
with the elves. Christmas balls, dances are a few of the many dos
organized to celebrate the good tidings. People dress their best attire
Page 33
and move out to have a good time. Christmas music and songs are
played right through the joyous times outside and even at home.
With all this fanfare around keeping Jesus at the centre of it all is indeed
difficult but imperative. As it is he who is pivotal to the celebrations. The
birth of our lord Jesus in a stable among cattle is an example he sets
before us to leave all our worldly belongings and kneel before in prayer.
He was wrapped in swaddling clothes and always in danger of life, but
these matters did not weigh him down as he knew the main reason of
his life was to devote himself to prayer and set an example to his people.
This humble lord was first visited by 3 wise men who were kings from
different regions.
The almighty is said to send his only son to mankind to set an example
on earth and this was and will always be rejoiced by Catholics world over
by celebrating Christmas Day.
Good Friday
A solemn day for Catholics in the entire year is the Good Friday. It is the
day their Lord Jesus is crucified and nailed to the cross and then left to
die. Paradoxically as it may sound, a day where their god has died is
termed good instead of bad. This is because the lord is said to die for
the sins of all the people on earth.
He is said to give himself up so that the sins of the people on earth
are revoked, this is the good he did for the people and hence the
term Good.
Good Friday is the third last day of the season of lent which begins 45
days before with Ash Wednesday. This day every catholic is reminded
that he has come empty handed into the world and will leave empty
handed. From ashes to ashes, dust to dust is what is quoted in the bible
and to implicate the same thing, ash is crossed out on the forehead of
every individual and it is not to be wiped out.
Since this day, every catholic is urged to give time everyday to prayer.
To fast and abstain, to give up all desires and lead a simple life for
Page 34
the coming 40 days. Station of the cross is to be attended and family
prayers are to be said at home every day. The 40 days culminate to
Easter where the whole world celebrates the resurrection of the Lord
Jesus, where he is said to raise from the dead.
The three main days of lent are the last three days Maundy Thursday,
Good Friday and Holy Saturday. These are the last and final days of the
lent where hours of prayers are dedicated in church and at home. Good
Friday of all is a holiday as it the day that Jesus was nailed to the cross.
The Holy Mass is not a complete mass as the Gloria is not recited as in
a regular mass. Also the hymns are solemn and not in a joyous tone as
a regular mass.
In the liturgy the passion of the Christ is either enacted or recited by
three people. Mostly the Priest as Jesus, a lay person as Pontius Pilate
and another person as the crowd. The exact occurrence when Jesus
was going to be nailed is recited and the event is retold exactly as it was
centuries ago.
On this day, the statue of Jesus is removed from the mounted wall and
kept in the centre aisle. People then individually visit and kiss the statue
especially touching the wounds of Jesus. People travel from world over
to the Mount of Calvary where the crucifixion had taken place. Also
people travel to Churches where there are relics of Jesus like a chip
of the cross or of the cup he raised or of any saint. Or to places where
Jesus was said to visit or there had been a miracle at that place.
All solemnity ends on Easter Day and celebrations begin as Jesus
transcends from Earth to Heaven.
Gandhi Jayanti
MohandasKaramchandGandhi, a normal Indian citizen living his daily
life was exalted when he moved out of his nest to fight a kingdom that
had made the country their domain. Born in Gujarat, like every well
doing Indian, he travelled to UK to complete his education and become
a lawyer. On completion he travelled to South Africa to practice as a
lawyer.
Page 35
His enormous contribution to the freedom struggle elevated his stance
from a normal individual to a political hero. He was a catalyst to throw
out the British Raj and usher democracy in the country. The election
of a Prime Minister and the cabinet was brought in place in a country
shattered and torn by riots and caste wars.
Living in a country that opposed the Raj, Gandhiji saw bloodshed and
war all around him. As the British had a zero tolerance policy they
slaughtered and killed Indians without batting an eye lid. In vengeance
more people would attack and even more would lose their lives,
surviving widows and fatherless children lurking in around corridors
hungry and nowhere to go.
In a pathetic state of the country Gandhi struck out to protest against the
rulers, but in a different way. He used the non-violence or ahimsa and
Satyagraha method. In this way he did not raise his hands or preach to
take up the baton, instead he recommended his people to fight but not
with arms. Hence was born the union syndrome and the Mahatma was
born.
People moved out in droves shouting slogans and demanding their
rights. Mahatma Gandhi would urge Indians to wear clothes and use
substances that are made in India, another way of his silent protests. In
worse times he has gone on a fast- where he would not eat his food for
days and sometimes even weeks together, all to get his demands
sorted. Such was the simple life of Mahatma Gandhi. Initially this did not
stir the government, but when large number of people began to resort to
the same method then the nature of this national strike surfaced.
Hence 2nd of October is celebrated as a Gandhi Jayanti to
commemorate the profound work done by a single man to releasing the
country from the clutches of the Britishers. Gandhi through this style of
revolt won an international audience and today is known world over for
his non-violence movement. Hence 2nd October is also celebrated
world over as a non-violence day and the week is known as the nonviolence week as sealed by the WHO.
Page 36
Gandhi was loved by many and was equally reciprocated with hate. It
disheartened him to see the countrys partition as lakhs of people were
being killed in the name of religion. And ultimately it was a Hindu
Nathuram Godse who assassinated him and brought an end to the 72
year old who still remains in the mind and hearts of the world.
Many have translated his life into books and movies. The Gandhi Movie
released in 1981 played by Ben Kinsley, resounded through the world
and received an international audience.
Independence Day India

On this day, the national anthem rung out loud throughout the
country, and the freedom fighters felt good for every drop of blood they
shed. There were many who did not see the light of this day because
they were martyred as freedom fighters. Some to remember are Shahid
Bhagat Singh, Lala Lajpat Rai, Mangal Pandey and Ram Prasad Bismil.
Women were not far behind in this fight, some to remember were Jhasi
ki Rani Laxmibai, Sarojini Naidu and Kasturba Gandhi.
India had a history of attackers, the princes within the country would
attack each other to increase the length and breadth of their kingdom. It
was not long before when foreigners came to attack the shores. It began
with the Dutch, then Portuguese, the French and ultimately Britain. They
came to procure raw materials and use the country as processors to
make final goods that were exported from the country to their hometown.
But over a period of time the British gained power and ruled most of
the country to extract maximum raw materials at negligible prices. Their
divide and rule policy increased the differences between the Hindus,
Muslims and other faiths. These differences kept increasing leading to
internal violence and riots. The British always took advantage of these
situations and only aggravated it.
It was only the minds of the intelligent in the country like Gandhi, who
saw what the British were doing and tried a turnaround situation. Also
as the British ill-treated the Indians there was a lot of animosity against
Page 37
them. Thus were born freedom fighters, which were ready to give up
their life for the country.
Decades past, more freedom fighters were lost but even more were
born. With secret meetings, secret newspapers and underground hidings
these fighters would meet each other to discuss further action.
Mahatma Gandhi with his ahimsa, non-cooperation movement and
Satyagraha made it possible for deliberations with the British who
ultimately gave up their power in 1947.
Today Independence Day celebrations resound in every school, where
children are taught to revere their flag. The epitome of the celebrations
is in New Delhi where the Prime Minister hoists the flag and delivers a
speech from the Red Fort that is telecasted to homes across the nation.
TV channels telecast freedom fighter movies and the national anthem is
played in every nook and corner
Republic Day India

India attained its independence on 15 August 1947, yet it did not have a
constitution. On 29 August 1947, the Drafting Committee was appointed
to draft a permanent constitution.
The Constitution of India came into effect on 26 January 1950 and
therefore this day is celebrated as Republic Day every year.
It is one of the most important days in Indian History; it is a celebration of
Indias sovereignty and is one of the three national holidays. It is a day
on which every Indian heart fills up with patriotic fervour.
Republic Day Parade & Celebrations:
Republic Day is celebrated throughout the country with great enthusiasm
and vigour. A grand parade is held in New Delhi from Raisina Hill near
the Rashtrapati Bhavan, along the Rajpath, past India Gate and on to
the historic Red Fort, to mark the importance of this occasion.
The events of the day begin with the Prime Minister laying wreath at the
Amar Jawan Jyoti commemorating the soldiers who sacrificed their lives
Page 38
for the nation. The President is accompanied by a distinguished foreign
Head of State who is the invited Chief Guest for the occasion. The
President unfurls the NationalFlag of indiaand theNational Anthemis
played with a 21 gun salute.
Following this a brief ceremony takes place where the President honours
soldiers from the armed forces for their exceptional courage and awards
those civilians whose acts of valour in different situations distinguishes
them from the rest. Helicopters from the armed forces shower rose
petals on the audience. Each chopper carries a flag - the first is the
Indian flag and the other three the flags of the Army, the Navy and the
Air Force. The parade also includes displays of skilful motor-cycle rides
by Armed Forces personnel.
The march past begins immediately after the fly past. The President, as
the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces takes the salute of the
marching contingents of the Army, Air Force, Navy, Paramilitary forces,
Police and the National Cadet Corps.
The Indian Military showcases its latest tanks, missiles, etc.
The military parade is followed by a cultural parade. School children from
across the country participate in it, showcasing folk dances. India's rich
cultural heritage is displayed in the form of tableaus from various states.
Each state depicts its exclusive festivals, historical locations and art.
This exhibits Indias diversity and richness of culture.
The fly past, by the Indian Air Force marks the conclusion of the parade.
Celebrations on a smaller scale are held in all parts of the country - all
state capitals, district headquarters, sub divisions, talukas, panchayats,
schools and other educational institutes partake in the celebration.
The Celebration continues:
PMs Rally & Lok Tarang:
On 27th January, a Prime Minister's Rally is held by a crme of N.C.C
cadets displaying various breath-taking performances and drill.
Page 39
The Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in association with seven
Zonal Cultural Centres organises Lok Tarang - National Folk Dance
Festival every year from 24th to 29th January. This colourful festival
provides an opportunity for people to witness vibrant folk dances from
various parts of the country.
Beating the Retreat:

Beating the Retreat ceremony is conducted on the evening of 29th
January officially denoting the end of Republic Day celebrations. The
ceremony starts by the bands of the three services marching in unison,
playing popular marching tunes. Followed by the solo performances of
the drummers, they play Abide with me, followed by the bugle call for
Retreat.
The band master then marches to the President and takes permission
to take the bands away, the bands march back playing Saare Jahan Se
Achcha. At exactly 6 pm, the buglers sound the retreat and the National
Flag is lowered and the National Anthem is sung. This brings a formal
end to the celebrations.
On this day, the patriotic zeal of the people brings the whole nation
together. It promotes the feeling of brotherhood and unity among them.
Jamshed Navroz
The Zoroastrians celebrate Jamshed Navroz on the 21st March as
the first day of their calendar year. This Parsi New Year commences
with the Vernal Equinox - when the length of the day equals that of the
night. 'Nav' means new and 'Roz' means day and thus Navroz means a
new day.
Jamshed Navroz History:
The origin of the festival is not well established but according to popular
legend the festival dates back to over 3000 years when the legendary
king of Persia, Jamshedji ascended the throne on the day of 'Navroz'. It
is believed that he introduced solar calculation into the Persian calendar
and also determined the date when the Sun enters the constellation
Page 40
of Aries. As a custom the king was weighed in gold and silver, and the
money was distributed to the poor on this day.
This festival also finds mention in Shah Nameh, the Persian `Book
of Kings' written by Firdausi. According to the book, the festival was
celebrated by the kings of Persia, Cyrus and Darius to rejoice in the
spring and dates back to the 6th century B.C.
The first time celebration of the festival in India was started towards the
end of eighteenth century when Seth Nasarvanji Kavasji Kohyaji first
celebrated it in Surat. After a couple of decades Seth Merwanji Pandey
started the celebrations in Mumbai which was further popularized by
Khurshedji Rustamji Cama in the 20th century.
Jamshed Navroz Celebrations:
Parsis celebrate Jamshed Navroz in an elaborate manner. The
celebration commences with cleaning of the house. Auspicious symbols
like stars, butterflies, birds and fish are used for decoration. The doors
and windows are adorned with garlands of roses and jasmine, colourful
rangolis add to the beauty. People wear new clothes along with Parsi
caps on this occasion.
Ravo prepared with suji, milk and sugar and fried vermicelli cooked in
sugar are special preparations for breakfast. After breakfast, people
visit the Fire Temple or Agiary for a special thanksgiving prayer known
as 'Jashan' where they offer sandalwood to the Holy Fire. After the
ceremony is over, they greet each other by saying, 'Sal Mubarak'.
Guests are welcomed in a special way by sprinkling rosewater and
rice on them and applying tilak. There is a custom to keep a copy of
the Gathas, a lit lamp, an afrigan, a bowl of water containing live fish, a
shallow earthenware plate with sprouted wheat or beans for prosperity,
flowers for colour, a silver coin for wealth, sweets and rosewater in bowls
for happiness on a table. Apart from these, the table also has seven food
items beginning with 'sh' and 's'. These are meant to symbolise creation.
Food is of great importance of this day and the menu is fixed. Pulav is
Page 41
an integral part, while plain rice and moong dal is a must. The traditional
drink is falooda, prepared from milk flavoured with rose essence.
It is one of the three main festivals celebrated by the Parsi community.
It symbolizes the spirit of friendship, happiness and harmony and brings
people closer.
Buddha Purnima
Buddha Purnima, also known as Buddha Jayanti or Vesak is the most
sacred day in the Buddhist calendar. It holds special importance as it
commemorates the three most significant events in the life of Gautama
Buddha - His birth, enlightenment and nirvana; all three took place on
the same day - full moon day of the lunar month Vaishakha.
Also known as the Light of Asia, Gautam Buddha was among the
greatest spiritual teachers of all times. His message and teachings have
travelled far and wide, around the globe.
Gautam Buddhas Life:
According to the legend, Queen Mahamaya gave birth to Buddha under
the shade of two sal trees at Lumbini on the full moon day of Vaishakha,
on her way to Devdaha. Siddhartha was the only son of Shuddhodana,
the King of Kapilavastu and thus led a protected life; ignorant of
miseries, sorrows and sufferings.
At the age of 29, on his visit to the city he saw - an old man, a sick
man and a dead body, for the very first time in his life; this changed his
life forever. His mind was filled with numerous questions; to seek the
answers and search for the true meaning of life he left all royal luxuries
and worldly pleasures. He went from one religious centre to another
searching in vain answers to his questions. Finally in a forest near Gaya,
he meditated for six years, then took his seat under a Bodhi tree and
decided to stay there until he found the answers to his questions.
One Vaishakha full moon night, he attained enlightenment and found
the answers to the four truths of life - the existence of pain and suffering,
their causes, the need to overcome them and the means of doing so.
Page 42
Thus, he became Siddhartha - the Buddha or Gautam Buddha the Enlightened One. Thereafter, he travelled far and wide preaching;
his followers consisted of scholars, sanyasis, kings and their ministers.
In 483 BC, at the age of 80 the Buddha attained nirvana; it was the
same day as Buddhas birthday and the day he attained enlightenment.
Rituals & Celebration:
On this day Buddhists wear only white clothes. Prayers and sermons
are offered in monasteries, religious halls and homes. Daylong reading
of scriptures by monks takes place in the monasteries. People offer
flowers, candles and fruits to the statue of Buddha. The Bodhi Vriksha or
the Pepal tree is beautifully lit with lamps and decorated with garlands.
People reaffirm their faith in the five principles called Panchsheel. Stalls
are set up by them in public places to offer clean drinking water to
others. They refrain from eating meat; kheer is a special preparation on
this day.
Bodh Gaya in Bihar and Sarnath in Uttar Pradesh are the two main
places where elaborate celebration takes place.
Celebrations in Bodh Gaya
People from all over the world come to attend ceremonies that take
place at Bodh Gaya, the place where Gautam Buddha attained
enlightenment. TheMahabodhiTempleis decorated to mark the special
occasion. Throughout the day prayer, meets, sermons on the life of
Gautam Buddha, religious discourse,groupmeditationand processions
take place.
Celebrations in Sarnath
Sarnath was where Buddha delivered his first sermon. A large fair is
organised on the occasion of Buddha Purnima. Relics of the Buddha
are brought out for public display in a procession. Devotees offer fruits,
flowers and candles to the statue of Lord Buddha and pay respect to the
great teacher.
Besides these two places, the festival is celebrated with great
Page 43
enthusiasm in areas with large Buddhist population like Ladakh, Sikkim
and Arunachal Pradesh in India.
Hemis Gompa
Hemis is around 35 km, while the Gompa is nearly 45 km to the south of
Leh. The place is well known for Hemis Gompa the Monastery and the
two-day colourful festival by the same name.
The Monastery:
Hemis Gompa also known as Chang Chub Sam Ling in the local
language or the lone place of the compassionate person is one of the
biggest and wealthiest monasteries in the region of Leh and Ladakh.
At an altitude of 12,000 feet, it is one of the highest settlements of the
world.
It is situated inside the Hemis National Park. Over 350 years old,
architecturally it is unique because of its intrinsic design qualities.
The Monastery is extremely beautiful and grand, decorated in Tibetan
style. The Monastery boasts of a rich collection of ancient relics thankas and copper gild statue of the Lord Buddha, stupas made of gold
and silver and other such objects.
The Hemis Gompa Festival:
Hemis Gompa is also a two-day festival organized from the 9th to 11th
day of the 5th Tibetan month, which falls in the month of June-July. It is
one of the most important festivals in the Buddhist calendar, organised
on the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava also known also as
Guru Rimpoche. He was the founder of Tantric Buddhism and is credited
with preaching the message of spiritual harmony and prosperity among
human beings.
The prime attractions of the festival are Cham dances and traditional
music that is played using the beating of drums, clashing of cymbals and
long horns. Sacred masked dances are performed by resident lamas
of the Monastery; they are a re-enactment of the magical feats of Guru
Rimpoche in his services to the cause of Buddhism in his eight different
Page 44
manifestations. The monks dress up as demons and Gods portraying
battles between good and evil spirits. Lamas with red-robes and tall
tufted hats bang on drums and crash symbols as others leap to fight off
demons.
Women adorn themselves with the perak, an elaborate headdress with
woven strips of beads and turquoise, silver dangles, and upright ears
of braided yak hair. The portrait of sacred Guru Rimpoche is put for
devotees to show their respect. Each family carries yak-butter tea, a
canister of tsampa and roasted barley flour.
There are various tales about the festival, its origin and celebrations,
the essence of all being - the battle of good with evil and the arrival of
Buddhism in Ladakh. The message of the festival symbolizes the victory
of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance and virtue over vice.
Hemis Gompa is one of the many things about Ladakh which make it
unique and special. The grand Monastery and colourful festival are a
treat to the eyes. Celebrated with great vigour, it is of the largest and
best Buddhist festivals, attracting people from around the world.
Page 45

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Baisakhi for farmers

Raksha bandhan, Rakhi festival in India

Guru Nanak Jayanti

Independence Day India

Republic Day India

Beating the Retreat:

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