India is country which comprises of most diverse cultures and landscapes as well as Indians are very diverse with lots of religious festivals, cultural festivals around now and then. The main reason for India being too diverse is because pre independent india consisted of numerous princely states present in different geographies and all of them were different in culture, race from the oyher princely states . All the regional pre indepent princely states became modern sovereign states of india hence there are lot of regional festivals celebrated in all the 31 states and Union territories.
Here i have tried to provide you information about regional festivals of india in single post, the festivals are divided according to the states in which they are celebrated.
So here we go...just click on the state link to see the festivals celebrated in that indian state
Regional festivals celebrated in india -
1. Festivals of Karnataka
2. Festivals of Kerala
3. Festivals of Punjab
4. Festivals of Maharashtra
5. Festivals of Goa
6. Festivals of Madhya Pradesh
7. Festivals of Tamil Nadu
8. Festivals of Andhra Pradesh
9. Festivals of Orissa
10. Festivals of Gujarat
11. Festivals of West Bengal
12. Festivals of Assam
13. Festivals of Rajasthan
14. Festivals of Haryana
15. Festivals of Uttar pradesh
16. Festivals of Uttarakhand
17. Festivals of Jammu & Kashmir
18. Festivals of Bihar
19. Festivals of Jharkhand
20. Festivals of Sikkim
21. Festivals of Arunachal Pradesh
22. Festivals of Tripura
23. Festivals of Chattisgarh
24. Festivals of Nagaland
25. Festivals of Mizoram
26. Festivals of Meghalaya
27. Festivals of Himachal Pradesh
Showing posts with label festivals of india. Show all posts
Showing posts with label festivals of india. Show all posts
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Rakhi | Raksha Bandhan - Festival strengthening bond between Brothers and Sisters
Other Indian Festivals Details
India is a country of festivals. It is culturally so rich that it celebrates a festival almost every month. The people of India are so lively that they find a reason or the other for celebrations. One of such reasons is the sweet and sour relationship between a brother and a sister. Though brothers and sisters share and enjoy the bond of love between them throughout the year but Rakhi is the day when they get an opportunity to express their tender love and feelings towards each other. The Rakhi day is an opportunity for them to commemorate their loving memories, loyalty, closeness, trust and friendship that is lasting and true.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Raksha Bandhan is celebrated every year on 'Shravan Purnima' (Full Moon Day of the Hindu month of Shravan), which generally falls in the month of August. On the holy day of Rakhi the sisters tie a sacred piece of thread (Known as Rakhi or 'Raksha-Sutra') on the wrist of their brothers. Then they sweeten each others mouths with delicious and mouth-watering sweets. The festival of Rakhi also includes a tradition of offering gifts to sisters by the brothers.
Other Indian Festivals Details
India is a country of festivals. It is culturally so rich that it celebrates a festival almost every month. The people of India are so lively that they find a reason or the other for celebrations. One of such reasons is the sweet and sour relationship between a brother and a sister. Though brothers and sisters share and enjoy the bond of love between them throughout the year but Rakhi is the day when they get an opportunity to express their tender love and feelings towards each other. The Rakhi day is an opportunity for them to commemorate their loving memories, loyalty, closeness, trust and friendship that is lasting and true.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Raksha Bandhan is celebrated every year on 'Shravan Purnima' (Full Moon Day of the Hindu month of Shravan), which generally falls in the month of August. On the holy day of Rakhi the sisters tie a sacred piece of thread (Known as Rakhi or 'Raksha-Sutra') on the wrist of their brothers. Then they sweeten each others mouths with delicious and mouth-watering sweets. The festival of Rakhi also includes a tradition of offering gifts to sisters by the brothers.
Other Indian Festivals Details
Rama Navami - Birth day of Lord Rama
Other Indian Festivals Details
Ramanavami celebrates the birth of Rama or Ramachandra. On the ninth day of the first fortnight of Chaitra the birth of Rama is commemorated. The story of Rama was first written by Vaalmeeki in about the 4th century B.C. Rama is supposed to have lived during the 8th or 7th century B.C. The epic known as the Ramayana. In some parts of India, it is a nine-day festival, coinciding with the Vasanta Navaratri (see also Navaratri).
The public worship starts with morning ablutions, chanting Vedic mantras dedicated to Vishnu, and offering flowers and fruit to the god. People keep a fast throughout the day, breaking it only at midnight with fruit. In some parts of India, especially Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, public gatherings called satsangs are organised to commemorate the birth of Rama. Excerpts from the Ramacharitamanas, extolling the glory of Rama, are recited. People of all castes and creeds participate in these gatherings to listen to the stories and their explanations offered by the learned.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Rama’s Birth:The country of Kosal was situated on the banks of the river Sharayu. Ayodhya was the capital founded by the king rishi Manu. During the reign of king Dasarath, Ayodhya reached a period of great prosperity. But Dasarath faced a big problem: he had no children. Therefore he decided to perform a sacrifice known as “ashvamedh”, or horse-sacrifice. Elaborate and difficult rituals had to be observed. A very holy man, rishi Rishyashring, was chosen to conduct the sacrifice with the utmost accuracy.
The performance of this sacrifice was a great event in Ayodhya. At the end Rishyashring recited a mantra and made an offering to the fire. Then the gods, gandharvas, siddhas, and rishis present arid began to pray to Brahma.
At that time Ravan, king of Lanka, was terrorizing the people, and all were longing for liberation from his menace. Ravan had acquired great power because he had obtained from god Brahma the boon that he would never die at the hands of gods, or gandharvas, or yakshas (demigods) or demons. As he was not afraid of men he did not care to include men in the list of his potential slayers. So Brahmadev declared that Ravan would die at the hands of a man. Then the gods went to Vishnu with the request, “Dasarath is a glorious king. Please, take birth in the wombs of his three queens in four different degrees of your divinity.”When Dasarath’s sacrifice came to an end a shining figure appeared over the sacrificial kund, and offered the king a divine beverage called “payasam” to be given to his queens Kausalya, Kaikayi, and Sumitra.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
In due time Kausalya gave birth to Rama, Kaikayi to Bharat and Sumitra to Laxman and Shatrugna. Rama was born at noon of the bright ninth day of Chaitra. He was believed to be the embodiment of half degree of Vishnu’s divinity, (ardha ounsh).Legend:Four storeys - even the original Ravana may not have been so tall. But this is the Kali Yuga, when evil is supposed to assume an even more terrifying form. Ravana has his moments of glory, and that too, on Rama Navami, the birthday of Rama.
The effigy of the ten-headed Ravana swaggers through the town, wearing a gaudy crown and exaggerated moustache, with shouting hordes following. But once Ravana reaches the open ground that is his final destination, he is suddenly deserted by most of his "followers" - because the noble Rama has made his appearance. In the end, righteousness does triumph, even in Kali Yuga. Rama engages him in battle, and finally pierces him with a potent arrow. And the huge effigy of Ravana, filled to bursting with firecrackers, is set alight, and explodes into a thousand bits amid loud cheers from the crowd and shouts of Jai Shri Ram.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
This ritual is an important part of the Rama Navami celebrations in most parts of North India. Rama Navami falls on the ninth day of the shukla paksha, or bright phase of the moon, in the lunar month of Chaitra (April-May). The first day of Chaitra , or Ugadi, also marks the beginning of the Indian year. Rama is one of the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu, and one of the two most popular, along with Krishna. Consequently, Rama Navami is widely celebrated, though not on the scale of festivals like Diwali or Dussehra.
According to legend, Rama was born at noon. Rama is the epitome of perfection, the uttama purusha, fulfilling all his duties towards both family and subjects. Rama was the first of the four sons of King Dasharatha of Ayodhya. When it was time for Rama to be made crown-prince, his stepmother, Kaikeyi, got Dasharatha to send him to the forest for 14 years. His wife Sita and his brother Lakshmana also accompanied him. In the forest, Sita was kidnapped by Ravana, the demon king of Lanka. Rama, together with Hanuman and the monkey army, built a bridge to Lanka, killed Ravana, and brought Sita back.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
It is believed that listening to the story of Rama cleanses the soul. Meditating on the noble Rama and chanting his name is believed to ease the pains of life and lead one to moksha, or liberation. It is also common practice to chant the name of Rama while rocking babies to sleep. Significance:Though Rama Navami is a major festival for Vaishnavites, it is widely celebrated by worshippers of Shiva, too.
It is considered auspicious to undertake a fast on the day in the name of Rama. The more devout fast for nine days, from Ugadi to Rama Navami. The objective of the fast is not to ask for special favours of the deity but to seek perfection as a human being. Devotees perform elaborate pujas and chant the name of Rama. Temples of Rama have special services and bhajan sessions through the day. One significant and popular element of the celebration is the Ramayana parayana, a discourse on the Ramayana, by a pundit or a professional story-teller.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
It usually lasts nine days, beginning on Ugadi and ending on Rama Navami. A skilled story-teller who can liven up the event by weaving in contemporary events attracts massive crowds. Since Rama is also one of the most sung-about deities in Indian classical music and literature, week-long (and sometimes, month-long) musical programmes are organised. Sacred places associated with Rama, like Ayodhya, Ujjain and Rameshwaram, draw tens of thousands of devotees.
In Rameshwaram, thousands take a ritual bath in the sea before worshipping at the Ramanathaswamy temple. Many places in North India host fairs in connection with the festival, culminating in spectacular fireworks on Rama Navami
Other Indian Festivals Details
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Ramanavami celebrates the birth of Rama or Ramachandra. On the ninth day of the first fortnight of Chaitra the birth of Rama is commemorated. The story of Rama was first written by Vaalmeeki in about the 4th century B.C. Rama is supposed to have lived during the 8th or 7th century B.C. The epic known as the Ramayana. In some parts of India, it is a nine-day festival, coinciding with the Vasanta Navaratri (see also Navaratri).
The public worship starts with morning ablutions, chanting Vedic mantras dedicated to Vishnu, and offering flowers and fruit to the god. People keep a fast throughout the day, breaking it only at midnight with fruit. In some parts of India, especially Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, public gatherings called satsangs are organised to commemorate the birth of Rama. Excerpts from the Ramacharitamanas, extolling the glory of Rama, are recited. People of all castes and creeds participate in these gatherings to listen to the stories and their explanations offered by the learned.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Rama’s Birth:The country of Kosal was situated on the banks of the river Sharayu. Ayodhya was the capital founded by the king rishi Manu. During the reign of king Dasarath, Ayodhya reached a period of great prosperity. But Dasarath faced a big problem: he had no children. Therefore he decided to perform a sacrifice known as “ashvamedh”, or horse-sacrifice. Elaborate and difficult rituals had to be observed. A very holy man, rishi Rishyashring, was chosen to conduct the sacrifice with the utmost accuracy.
The performance of this sacrifice was a great event in Ayodhya. At the end Rishyashring recited a mantra and made an offering to the fire. Then the gods, gandharvas, siddhas, and rishis present arid began to pray to Brahma.
At that time Ravan, king of Lanka, was terrorizing the people, and all were longing for liberation from his menace. Ravan had acquired great power because he had obtained from god Brahma the boon that he would never die at the hands of gods, or gandharvas, or yakshas (demigods) or demons. As he was not afraid of men he did not care to include men in the list of his potential slayers. So Brahmadev declared that Ravan would die at the hands of a man. Then the gods went to Vishnu with the request, “Dasarath is a glorious king. Please, take birth in the wombs of his three queens in four different degrees of your divinity.”When Dasarath’s sacrifice came to an end a shining figure appeared over the sacrificial kund, and offered the king a divine beverage called “payasam” to be given to his queens Kausalya, Kaikayi, and Sumitra.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
In due time Kausalya gave birth to Rama, Kaikayi to Bharat and Sumitra to Laxman and Shatrugna. Rama was born at noon of the bright ninth day of Chaitra. He was believed to be the embodiment of half degree of Vishnu’s divinity, (ardha ounsh).Legend:Four storeys - even the original Ravana may not have been so tall. But this is the Kali Yuga, when evil is supposed to assume an even more terrifying form. Ravana has his moments of glory, and that too, on Rama Navami, the birthday of Rama.
The effigy of the ten-headed Ravana swaggers through the town, wearing a gaudy crown and exaggerated moustache, with shouting hordes following. But once Ravana reaches the open ground that is his final destination, he is suddenly deserted by most of his "followers" - because the noble Rama has made his appearance. In the end, righteousness does triumph, even in Kali Yuga. Rama engages him in battle, and finally pierces him with a potent arrow. And the huge effigy of Ravana, filled to bursting with firecrackers, is set alight, and explodes into a thousand bits amid loud cheers from the crowd and shouts of Jai Shri Ram.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
This ritual is an important part of the Rama Navami celebrations in most parts of North India. Rama Navami falls on the ninth day of the shukla paksha, or bright phase of the moon, in the lunar month of Chaitra (April-May). The first day of Chaitra , or Ugadi, also marks the beginning of the Indian year. Rama is one of the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu, and one of the two most popular, along with Krishna. Consequently, Rama Navami is widely celebrated, though not on the scale of festivals like Diwali or Dussehra.
According to legend, Rama was born at noon. Rama is the epitome of perfection, the uttama purusha, fulfilling all his duties towards both family and subjects. Rama was the first of the four sons of King Dasharatha of Ayodhya. When it was time for Rama to be made crown-prince, his stepmother, Kaikeyi, got Dasharatha to send him to the forest for 14 years. His wife Sita and his brother Lakshmana also accompanied him. In the forest, Sita was kidnapped by Ravana, the demon king of Lanka. Rama, together with Hanuman and the monkey army, built a bridge to Lanka, killed Ravana, and brought Sita back.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
It is believed that listening to the story of Rama cleanses the soul. Meditating on the noble Rama and chanting his name is believed to ease the pains of life and lead one to moksha, or liberation. It is also common practice to chant the name of Rama while rocking babies to sleep. Significance:Though Rama Navami is a major festival for Vaishnavites, it is widely celebrated by worshippers of Shiva, too.
It is considered auspicious to undertake a fast on the day in the name of Rama. The more devout fast for nine days, from Ugadi to Rama Navami. The objective of the fast is not to ask for special favours of the deity but to seek perfection as a human being. Devotees perform elaborate pujas and chant the name of Rama. Temples of Rama have special services and bhajan sessions through the day. One significant and popular element of the celebration is the Ramayana parayana, a discourse on the Ramayana, by a pundit or a professional story-teller.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
It usually lasts nine days, beginning on Ugadi and ending on Rama Navami. A skilled story-teller who can liven up the event by weaving in contemporary events attracts massive crowds. Since Rama is also one of the most sung-about deities in Indian classical music and literature, week-long (and sometimes, month-long) musical programmes are organised. Sacred places associated with Rama, like Ayodhya, Ujjain and Rameshwaram, draw tens of thousands of devotees.
In Rameshwaram, thousands take a ritual bath in the sea before worshipping at the Ramanathaswamy temple. Many places in North India host fairs in connection with the festival, culminating in spectacular fireworks on Rama Navami
Other Indian Festivals Details
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Makar Sakaranti - Major Hindu Festival of India
Other Indian Festivals Details
According to the lunar calendar, the sun moves from the Tropic of Cancer to the Tropic of Capricorn, or from Dakshinayana to Uttarayana, in the month of Poush in mid-January.This end of the winter solstice also coincides with the harvest season and cessation of the northeast monsoon in South India. The movement of the earth from one zodiac sign into another is called Sankranti, and is celebrated as Makar, or Uttarayana, Sankranti, or Lohri, in the North, and as Pongal in the South. The word pongal, in both Telugu and Tamil, signifies the boiling over of the rice in the cooking pot.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Though little is known about the origin of Pongal, it is probably a Dravidian harvest festival that has survived for millennia.The Sankranti season ends with Ratha Saptami, the seventh day of the bright half of Magha, when the sun and his golden chariot are honoured. Pongal is a three-day festival. On the first day, Bhogi Pongal, celebrations are confined to the house. Evil spirits are driven out of the home and burned in bonfires, and the house is whitewashed.
The second day, Surya Pongal, honours the Sun god. Members of the family wear new clothes and cook - on a new stove and in new pots - a dish with the newly harvested rice, jaggery and moong dal. Sugarcane stalks characterise this festival, as do til, and sweets made from jaggery and peanuts.The third day is Maattu Pongal, honouring cattle. Cows and bullocks are washed, decorated, and worshipped for their role in ensuring a good harvest.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Punjab celebrates Lohri by feasting on sweets made of jaggery, peanuts and sesame seeds, and making a symbolic bonfire of the departing winter. In the days leading up to Lohri, children visit homes of neighbours, sing traditional Lohri songs, and ask for coins and sweets in return. While being Indian in spirit, this custom is similar to the tradition of singing Christmas carols.In Gujarat and other western states, people observe Uttarayana, when the winds change, by flying kites. The winter sky bursts into colour with thousands of paper kites.
The festivities conclude with a winter feast.In Maharashtra, people dress in new clothes and distribute sesame sweets. New brides are welcomed into the family with sugar ornaments and a turmeric-and-vermilion ceremony. In rural Maharashtra, feasts of the new harvest mark the festival.Assam celebrates the paddy harvest in winter with Magha or Bhogali Bihu. Pavilions with thatched roofs come up in the villages and there is feasting in the night. The pavilions are set afire in the morning.
The festivities continue for a week.At Ganga Sagar, where the Ganga enters the sea, a grand fair is held.The festival is also called Til Sankranti or Kichri Sankranti, after its main ingredient or preparation.In Thanjavur, Madurai, and Thiruchirapalli, in Tamil Nadu, Pongal is marked by jallikattu, or bull fights. A money bag is tied to the horns of a bull, and the man who succeeds in tethering the beast to the tree gets the money and a prize.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
According to the lunar calendar, the sun moves from the Tropic of Cancer to the Tropic of Capricorn, or from Dakshinayana to Uttarayana, in the month of Poush in mid-January.This end of the winter solstice also coincides with the harvest season and cessation of the northeast monsoon in South India. The movement of the earth from one zodiac sign into another is called Sankranti, and is celebrated as Makar, or Uttarayana, Sankranti, or Lohri, in the North, and as Pongal in the South. The word pongal, in both Telugu and Tamil, signifies the boiling over of the rice in the cooking pot.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Though little is known about the origin of Pongal, it is probably a Dravidian harvest festival that has survived for millennia.The Sankranti season ends with Ratha Saptami, the seventh day of the bright half of Magha, when the sun and his golden chariot are honoured. Pongal is a three-day festival. On the first day, Bhogi Pongal, celebrations are confined to the house. Evil spirits are driven out of the home and burned in bonfires, and the house is whitewashed.
The second day, Surya Pongal, honours the Sun god. Members of the family wear new clothes and cook - on a new stove and in new pots - a dish with the newly harvested rice, jaggery and moong dal. Sugarcane stalks characterise this festival, as do til, and sweets made from jaggery and peanuts.The third day is Maattu Pongal, honouring cattle. Cows and bullocks are washed, decorated, and worshipped for their role in ensuring a good harvest.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Punjab celebrates Lohri by feasting on sweets made of jaggery, peanuts and sesame seeds, and making a symbolic bonfire of the departing winter. In the days leading up to Lohri, children visit homes of neighbours, sing traditional Lohri songs, and ask for coins and sweets in return. While being Indian in spirit, this custom is similar to the tradition of singing Christmas carols.In Gujarat and other western states, people observe Uttarayana, when the winds change, by flying kites. The winter sky bursts into colour with thousands of paper kites.
The festivities conclude with a winter feast.In Maharashtra, people dress in new clothes and distribute sesame sweets. New brides are welcomed into the family with sugar ornaments and a turmeric-and-vermilion ceremony. In rural Maharashtra, feasts of the new harvest mark the festival.Assam celebrates the paddy harvest in winter with Magha or Bhogali Bihu. Pavilions with thatched roofs come up in the villages and there is feasting in the night. The pavilions are set afire in the morning.
The festivities continue for a week.At Ganga Sagar, where the Ganga enters the sea, a grand fair is held.The festival is also called Til Sankranti or Kichri Sankranti, after its main ingredient or preparation.In Thanjavur, Madurai, and Thiruchirapalli, in Tamil Nadu, Pongal is marked by jallikattu, or bull fights. A money bag is tied to the horns of a bull, and the man who succeeds in tethering the beast to the tree gets the money and a prize.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Karwa Chauth - Rigorous Fast Festival for North Indian Ladies
Other Indian Festivals Details
Karva Chauth is a very significant festival for the women of North Indian. Traditionally the Indian woman was expected to uphold family honour and repute. And in order to do that, she was compared to myriad goddesses and heroines in Hindu mythology whose personal and spiritual achievements thus set the way of life for every Indian woman who, in turn, was expected to emulate them. As a child she submitted to the dictates of the paterfamilias – the father, and after marriage to those of the husband.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Her failure to do so supposedly brought doom and dishonor upon the concerned families and their genealogical ramifications. The notion of female chastity, respectability, tolerance and demureness slowly but surely seeped into every layer of the Hindu society and literature, and great care was taken to glorify the woman, while the reigns of social control were firmly held by the mikado of morality – the male. In such a social construct, the woman’s identity hinged first on that of her father, and later and more importantly on that of her husband.
Therefore, in certain pockets of India, a widow was expected to immolate herself on the funeral pyre of her departed husband – an act hailed by many that guaranteed her the status of an ‘exalted woman’, a devi (roughly translated as a demigoddess). Hence, not only was her status, but even the mere survival of the woman was dependant on that of the man. The corollary was that the woman did everything within her means to ensure the well being of her patiparmeshwar, or ‘husbandalmighty’.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Today, however, the festival of Karva Chauth is not only a day when women pray to God for the long and prosperous lives of their husbands, but is also symbolic of their unflagging loyalty towards their spouses. The festival is celebrated nine days before Diwali, or the festival of lights, on the fourth day of the waning moon in the Hindu month of Kartik, around October-November. Married women, old and young, begin their fast on the day of Karva Chauth well before sunrise (around 4 a.m.), and eventually partake of food and water only after spotting the moon, which generally rises at about 8.30 p.m.
But this is not to say that it is a solemn day solely symbolic of privation, as a good measure of festivity, rituals and merriment complement its more serious implications. In fact many women do not adhere very strictly to the guidelines laid down for the fast, and while they choose to abstain from food, they drink water, tea and coffee.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Karva Chauth is a very significant festival for the women of North Indian. Traditionally the Indian woman was expected to uphold family honour and repute. And in order to do that, she was compared to myriad goddesses and heroines in Hindu mythology whose personal and spiritual achievements thus set the way of life for every Indian woman who, in turn, was expected to emulate them. As a child she submitted to the dictates of the paterfamilias – the father, and after marriage to those of the husband.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Her failure to do so supposedly brought doom and dishonor upon the concerned families and their genealogical ramifications. The notion of female chastity, respectability, tolerance and demureness slowly but surely seeped into every layer of the Hindu society and literature, and great care was taken to glorify the woman, while the reigns of social control were firmly held by the mikado of morality – the male. In such a social construct, the woman’s identity hinged first on that of her father, and later and more importantly on that of her husband.
Therefore, in certain pockets of India, a widow was expected to immolate herself on the funeral pyre of her departed husband – an act hailed by many that guaranteed her the status of an ‘exalted woman’, a devi (roughly translated as a demigoddess). Hence, not only was her status, but even the mere survival of the woman was dependant on that of the man. The corollary was that the woman did everything within her means to ensure the well being of her patiparmeshwar, or ‘husbandalmighty’.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Today, however, the festival of Karva Chauth is not only a day when women pray to God for the long and prosperous lives of their husbands, but is also symbolic of their unflagging loyalty towards their spouses. The festival is celebrated nine days before Diwali, or the festival of lights, on the fourth day of the waning moon in the Hindu month of Kartik, around October-November. Married women, old and young, begin their fast on the day of Karva Chauth well before sunrise (around 4 a.m.), and eventually partake of food and water only after spotting the moon, which generally rises at about 8.30 p.m.
But this is not to say that it is a solemn day solely symbolic of privation, as a good measure of festivity, rituals and merriment complement its more serious implications. In fact many women do not adhere very strictly to the guidelines laid down for the fast, and while they choose to abstain from food, they drink water, tea and coffee.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Krishna Janamashtami - Major Indian Hindu Festival
Other Indian Festivals Details
Gokulashtami marks the celebration of the birth of Bhagavan Sri Krishna. Lord Sri Krishna was born on the 'Rohini' nakshatram (star) on Ashtami day. This festival is also known as Sri Krishna Jayanti and Janmashtami. The actual day of celebration can be on two different days as the star 'Rohini' and Ashtami may not be on the same day. This occurs between August and September on the Christian calendar.Krishna Jayanthi is also called as Janma Ashtami day, Gokula Ashtami and Sri Jayanthi.
The birthday of Krishna, who was born to King Vasudeva and Devaki Devi is celebrated as a festival on the eighth day of the dark fortnight in the month of Sravana, which corresponds to the English month of August-September. Therefore Gokuashtami means Gokul - Krishna and Ashtami - eight. Sri Krishna is Lord Vishnu's eighth avatar (incarnation) on earth. He is considered to be the Lord's most glorious incarnations.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Even saying and remembering His name brings joy because Sri Krishna himself was a manifestation of joy at all levels and in all walks of life. No other God in the Hindu pantheon, or for that matter in any other religion, is associated with so many romantic tales and so fully radiating with all the divine attributes as Sri Krishna.Since Sri Krishna lived in luxury throughout his life, Sri Krishna Jayanti is celebrated with pomp and splendor. Plenty of sweets are made. Among these are laddus (yellu oonde), chakli, cheedai, payasam (kheer), and so on.
In addition, plenty of milk products especially butter, which was Sri Krishna's favorite childhood food, are given in offerings. A wide variety of fruits are also offered. The most common sweets made laddus and payasam.Great indeed are his many Leelas and the way in which he charms one and all. Several sages and seers have paid homage to him. Narada, Sri Kulashekara Azhwar, Andal, Tirumangai Azhawar, Nammazhwar have sung glorious verses in praise of Lord Krishna who embodies Shudda Satvam.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
The Bhagavad Gita coming from the Lord is the absolute truth which has withstood the test of time and has formed the basis and inspiration for many Acharyas and Azhwars.The life and message of Sri Krishna is the most stirring saga of one of the greatest saviours and propounders of Dharma. Born in the dungeons of Kansa who was out to kill him at the very moment of his birth, Sri Krishna's life is replete with many such mortal dangers which he successfully triumphs over. He was the unchallenged hero of his times both in terms of his bodily prowess and his intellectual brilliance.
Sri Krishna Jayanti, therefore, signifies not merely the birth of a great and Divine Teacher of mankind in some distant past but the lighting of the spark of the Divine Power in every one of us, which spurs us on to play our dynamic part in this world of practical and hard realities with a sense of high spiritual purpose. Krishna represents the total power of attraction (Aakarshna Shakti) like a magnet of infinite rise. Hence Krishna is the source of joy. The cultural aspects are represented by the traditionally dressed devotees.
The raas or dance is also done with devotees taking part with spiritual fervor. Sri Krishna who manifests all levels of joy, is also the source of spiritual joy, which overrides mental or emotional joy, just as emotional joy overrides physical joy. If all the three are integrated and interdependent, then the observance of the festival takes on the full meaning of Sri Krishnaarpanamastu - let everything be offered to Sri Krishna.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Gokulashtami marks the celebration of the birth of Bhagavan Sri Krishna. Lord Sri Krishna was born on the 'Rohini' nakshatram (star) on Ashtami day. This festival is also known as Sri Krishna Jayanti and Janmashtami. The actual day of celebration can be on two different days as the star 'Rohini' and Ashtami may not be on the same day. This occurs between August and September on the Christian calendar.Krishna Jayanthi is also called as Janma Ashtami day, Gokula Ashtami and Sri Jayanthi.
The birthday of Krishna, who was born to King Vasudeva and Devaki Devi is celebrated as a festival on the eighth day of the dark fortnight in the month of Sravana, which corresponds to the English month of August-September. Therefore Gokuashtami means Gokul - Krishna and Ashtami - eight. Sri Krishna is Lord Vishnu's eighth avatar (incarnation) on earth. He is considered to be the Lord's most glorious incarnations.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Even saying and remembering His name brings joy because Sri Krishna himself was a manifestation of joy at all levels and in all walks of life. No other God in the Hindu pantheon, or for that matter in any other religion, is associated with so many romantic tales and so fully radiating with all the divine attributes as Sri Krishna.Since Sri Krishna lived in luxury throughout his life, Sri Krishna Jayanti is celebrated with pomp and splendor. Plenty of sweets are made. Among these are laddus (yellu oonde), chakli, cheedai, payasam (kheer), and so on.
In addition, plenty of milk products especially butter, which was Sri Krishna's favorite childhood food, are given in offerings. A wide variety of fruits are also offered. The most common sweets made laddus and payasam.Great indeed are his many Leelas and the way in which he charms one and all. Several sages and seers have paid homage to him. Narada, Sri Kulashekara Azhwar, Andal, Tirumangai Azhawar, Nammazhwar have sung glorious verses in praise of Lord Krishna who embodies Shudda Satvam.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
The Bhagavad Gita coming from the Lord is the absolute truth which has withstood the test of time and has formed the basis and inspiration for many Acharyas and Azhwars.The life and message of Sri Krishna is the most stirring saga of one of the greatest saviours and propounders of Dharma. Born in the dungeons of Kansa who was out to kill him at the very moment of his birth, Sri Krishna's life is replete with many such mortal dangers which he successfully triumphs over. He was the unchallenged hero of his times both in terms of his bodily prowess and his intellectual brilliance.
Sri Krishna Jayanti, therefore, signifies not merely the birth of a great and Divine Teacher of mankind in some distant past but the lighting of the spark of the Divine Power in every one of us, which spurs us on to play our dynamic part in this world of practical and hard realities with a sense of high spiritual purpose. Krishna represents the total power of attraction (Aakarshna Shakti) like a magnet of infinite rise. Hence Krishna is the source of joy. The cultural aspects are represented by the traditionally dressed devotees.
The raas or dance is also done with devotees taking part with spiritual fervor. Sri Krishna who manifests all levels of joy, is also the source of spiritual joy, which overrides mental or emotional joy, just as emotional joy overrides physical joy. If all the three are integrated and interdependent, then the observance of the festival takes on the full meaning of Sri Krishnaarpanamastu - let everything be offered to Sri Krishna.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Durga Puja - East Indian Hindu Festival
Other Indian Festivals Details
Durga puja is the most prominent festival of Bengalis and Calcutta turns a new city during the last four days of the festival from Maha-Shashti (the sixth day), the day of Bodhon on Maha-Shashti to the day when the idols are immersed in the rivers, lakes and seas on the evening of Dashami. However, it is considered to immerse the idols in the sacred waters of the River Ganges.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
It is believed that the Mother Goddess descends to the Earth on Shashthi and returns to her abode on Dashmi. The fresh and cool air of the pleasant winters, the clear skies, mildly fragrant Shiuli (a type of flower), the bountiful harvest in the fields and chanting of mantras and shlokas to worship Shakti, all collectively set up the scene for the ten-day long festival of Durga Puja. The preparations are done long before the festival to clean and decorate homes, buy gifts for fiends and relatives and new clothes for the celebrations and prepare mouth-watering delicacies for the occasion.
However, Durgapuja festival is not merely religious in nature. With time, it has acquired the status of the biggest social even of the region as Bengalis use this time to socialize and make big plans for the four days of Durga Puja. Dances and performances organized, feasts and music reign the festivities and it is also the time for the teens and youths to catch up on the latest fashion trends, designer clothes, trendy footwear and catchy accessories. Businessmen sure cash in the festival and sales, discounts, free gifts jazz up the spirits of the people.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Shopping spree and traditional Bengali sweets help to loosen up the festive side of the peole. In short, Durga Puja is not only for the transition from the dull to a life of fun and gaiety but also to share this joy and happiness with friends and relatives.
Durga Puja 2007 :
The calendar or samay suchi for Durga Puja along with the timings is as follows :
October 18 Saptami
October 19 Mahashtami
October 20 Navami
October 21 Vijaya Dasami
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Durga puja is the most prominent festival of Bengalis and Calcutta turns a new city during the last four days of the festival from Maha-Shashti (the sixth day), the day of Bodhon on Maha-Shashti to the day when the idols are immersed in the rivers, lakes and seas on the evening of Dashami. However, it is considered to immerse the idols in the sacred waters of the River Ganges.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
It is believed that the Mother Goddess descends to the Earth on Shashthi and returns to her abode on Dashmi. The fresh and cool air of the pleasant winters, the clear skies, mildly fragrant Shiuli (a type of flower), the bountiful harvest in the fields and chanting of mantras and shlokas to worship Shakti, all collectively set up the scene for the ten-day long festival of Durga Puja. The preparations are done long before the festival to clean and decorate homes, buy gifts for fiends and relatives and new clothes for the celebrations and prepare mouth-watering delicacies for the occasion.
However, Durgapuja festival is not merely religious in nature. With time, it has acquired the status of the biggest social even of the region as Bengalis use this time to socialize and make big plans for the four days of Durga Puja. Dances and performances organized, feasts and music reign the festivities and it is also the time for the teens and youths to catch up on the latest fashion trends, designer clothes, trendy footwear and catchy accessories. Businessmen sure cash in the festival and sales, discounts, free gifts jazz up the spirits of the people.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Shopping spree and traditional Bengali sweets help to loosen up the festive side of the peole. In short, Durga Puja is not only for the transition from the dull to a life of fun and gaiety but also to share this joy and happiness with friends and relatives.
Durga Puja 2007 :
The calendar or samay suchi for Durga Puja along with the timings is as follows :
October 18 Saptami
October 19 Mahashtami
October 20 Navami
October 21 Vijaya Dasami
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Baisakhi - North Indian Festival - Hindu's Sikhs
Other Indian Festivals Details
It is a mega event - a religious festival, harvest festival and new year's day all rolled into one. In April, this day marks the beginning of the Hindu solar new year. In fact this day is celebrated all over the country as new year day under different names. It is also the time when the harvest is ready to cut and store or sell. For the Sikh community Baisakhi has a very special meaning.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
It was on this day that the last Guru Gobind Singh organised the sikhs into Khalsa or the pure ones. By doing so, he eliminated the differences of high and low and established that all human beings were equal. Baisakhi has special significance for two of India's major religious groups. For Hindus, it's the start of the new year, and is celebrated with requisite bathing, partying, and worshipping. It's believed that the goddess Ganga descended to earth thousands of years ago, and in her honor many Hindus gather along the sacred Ganges River for ritual baths.
The action is centered in the holy cities along the Ganges in north India, or in Srinagar's Mughal Gardens, Jammu's Nagbani Temple, or anywhere in Tamil Nadu. Hindus plant poles wrapped in flags of god-embroidered silk in front of their homes, and hang pots of brass, copper or silver on top. Children wear garlands of flowers and run through the streets singing "May the new year come again and again!" In Kerala the festival is called Vishu, and includes fireworks, shopping for new clothes and interesting displays called Vishu Kani.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
These are arrangements of flowers, grains, fruits, cloth, gold, and money are viewed early in the morning, to ensure a year of prosperity. In Assam, the festival is called Bohag Bihu, and the community organizes massive feasts, music, and dancing.
Sikhs assign quite a different meaning to Baisakhi, and if you happen to be in a Punjabi village to catch the men performing the wild bhangra dance, you'll get the picture. This strenuous dance tells the story of the agricultural process, from tilling the soil through harvesting. As the dholak (drum) changes beats, the dancing sequence progresses, dramatizing plowing, sowing, weeding, reaping, and finally celebrating. Baisakhi also commemorates the day in 1689 when Guru Gobing Singh founded the Khalsa, the fighting Sikh brotherhood that donned the distinctive Sikh outfits. Sikhs visit temples, such as the Golden Temple in Amritsar, where the holy Granth is read, commemorating the day on which the Guru asked five volunteers to offer their lives, then took them one at a time into a tent.
He emerged each time with a bloody sword, although he had in fact sacrificed a goat. In honor the "Beloved Five," a series of parades are held, in which sets of five men walk in front of the holy book with swords drawn. When the ceremony is over, a round of feasting, music-making, and dancing begins, amid the blossoming flowers and harvested grain.Celebrated In: In Punjab, Haryana and in all Sikh communes anywhere in India.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
It is a mega event - a religious festival, harvest festival and new year's day all rolled into one. In April, this day marks the beginning of the Hindu solar new year. In fact this day is celebrated all over the country as new year day under different names. It is also the time when the harvest is ready to cut and store or sell. For the Sikh community Baisakhi has a very special meaning.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
It was on this day that the last Guru Gobind Singh organised the sikhs into Khalsa or the pure ones. By doing so, he eliminated the differences of high and low and established that all human beings were equal. Baisakhi has special significance for two of India's major religious groups. For Hindus, it's the start of the new year, and is celebrated with requisite bathing, partying, and worshipping. It's believed that the goddess Ganga descended to earth thousands of years ago, and in her honor many Hindus gather along the sacred Ganges River for ritual baths.
The action is centered in the holy cities along the Ganges in north India, or in Srinagar's Mughal Gardens, Jammu's Nagbani Temple, or anywhere in Tamil Nadu. Hindus plant poles wrapped in flags of god-embroidered silk in front of their homes, and hang pots of brass, copper or silver on top. Children wear garlands of flowers and run through the streets singing "May the new year come again and again!" In Kerala the festival is called Vishu, and includes fireworks, shopping for new clothes and interesting displays called Vishu Kani.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
These are arrangements of flowers, grains, fruits, cloth, gold, and money are viewed early in the morning, to ensure a year of prosperity. In Assam, the festival is called Bohag Bihu, and the community organizes massive feasts, music, and dancing.
Sikhs assign quite a different meaning to Baisakhi, and if you happen to be in a Punjabi village to catch the men performing the wild bhangra dance, you'll get the picture. This strenuous dance tells the story of the agricultural process, from tilling the soil through harvesting. As the dholak (drum) changes beats, the dancing sequence progresses, dramatizing plowing, sowing, weeding, reaping, and finally celebrating. Baisakhi also commemorates the day in 1689 when Guru Gobing Singh founded the Khalsa, the fighting Sikh brotherhood that donned the distinctive Sikh outfits. Sikhs visit temples, such as the Golden Temple in Amritsar, where the holy Granth is read, commemorating the day on which the Guru asked five volunteers to offer their lives, then took them one at a time into a tent.
He emerged each time with a bloody sword, although he had in fact sacrificed a goat. In honor the "Beloved Five," a series of parades are held, in which sets of five men walk in front of the holy book with swords drawn. When the ceremony is over, a round of feasting, music-making, and dancing begins, amid the blossoming flowers and harvested grain.Celebrated In: In Punjab, Haryana and in all Sikh communes anywhere in India.
also know more about : - Diwali Festival - Holi Festival - Dussehra Festival - MahaShivaratri Festival - Baisakhi Festival - - Navaratri Festival - Rakhi Festival - RamaNavami Festival - Naag Panchami - Makar Sakaranti Festival - Karwa Chauth Fast Festival - Krishna Janamashtmi - Durga Puja
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Holi - The Festivals of Colours - Indian Festival
Other Indian Festivals
The Spring Festival of India, Holi - is a festival of colors. Celebrated in March or April according to the Hindu calendar, it was meant to welcome the spring and win the blessings of Gods for good harvests and fertility of the land. As with all the Hindu festivals, there are many interesting legends attached to Holi, the most popular being that of Prince Prahlad, who was a devout follower of Lord Vishnu.
It is the second most important festival of India after Diwali. Holi in India is a festival of fun and frolic and has been associated with the immortal love of Krishna and Radha. The exuberance and the festivity of the season are remarkable. Unlike all the other festivals of India, Hindu Holi festival is one such festival where one can put down the social taboos and indulge in the intoxicating drinks and sweets prepared by using opium. It is a festival of romance often represented by the love-play of Radha and Krishna.
Brij Holi is famous all over the world for its gaiety in spirit. Each year, young and old, men and women, all indulge themselves in the spirit of colors and for once forget the social taboos. There are mouthwatering delicacies to savor such as 'Gujhias' and 'Papris' and there are interesting traditions and customs of Holi that have their own regional variances. We will also talk about making natural and healthy colors and safety precautions that one must take to enjoy Holi.
Holi 2009: Holi will be celebrated on March 11th - 2009.
Monday, May 26, 2008
Diwali / Deepavali - the biggest and grandest Indian Festival
Back to Indian Festivals List
India is the land of festivals but Diwali (also called as Deepavali) is undoubtly the biggest and grandest indian festival celebrated all over India with equal enthusiasm and zeal. Diwali Festival is the abbreviation of the Sanskrit word 'Deepavali', which means 'rows of lights'.
The story behind celebration of deewali is of historic importace . One of the major Hindu festivals, it is celebrated to commemorate the returning of Rama and Sita to their kingdom Ayodhya after fourteen years of exile. Though, Diwali is mainly a five- day festival but we can see people preparing Diwali weeks ahead by cleaning and decorating their households. The main festival day falls on the no-moon day of the dark half of Kartik, according to the Hindu lunar calendar. Celebrated with vigour and gaiety by people of every religion Deepavali, its magical and radiant touch creates an atmosphere of joy and festivity.
Innumerable lamps are lit on the roofs and windowsills of the houses, thus, giving an ethereal and almost divine look to the whole scenario. It is said that Lakshmi, Goddess of wealth roams the earth on this day and enters the house that is pure, clean and brightly illuminated. Young and old, men and women, all dress up in new clothes and buy new utensils on this day. They worship the deities, Lakshmi and Ganesha, and share sweets and gifts with their relatives and friends. It is also the beginning of the new financial year for the business community.
However, it is the crackers and the fireworks that attract the kids the most and form the highlight of the festival. Deepawali symbolises the victory of righteousness and the lifting of spiritual darkness. It is the celebartion of victory of good over evil - and the glory of light.
DIWALI 2008 : Diwali falls on a new moon day in the month of October or November. Since the precise moment of the new moon falls on different dates depending on geographical location, the date of Diwali also depends on one's location. In 2008 Diwali will be celebrated on 28th October.
India is the land of festivals but Diwali (also called as Deepavali) is undoubtly the biggest and grandest indian festival celebrated all over India with equal enthusiasm and zeal. Diwali Festival is the abbreviation of the Sanskrit word 'Deepavali', which means 'rows of lights'.
The story behind celebration of deewali is of historic importace . One of the major Hindu festivals, it is celebrated to commemorate the returning of Rama and Sita to their kingdom Ayodhya after fourteen years of exile. Though, Diwali is mainly a five- day festival but we can see people preparing Diwali weeks ahead by cleaning and decorating their households. The main festival day falls on the no-moon day of the dark half of Kartik, according to the Hindu lunar calendar. Celebrated with vigour and gaiety by people of every religion Deepavali, its magical and radiant touch creates an atmosphere of joy and festivity.
Innumerable lamps are lit on the roofs and windowsills of the houses, thus, giving an ethereal and almost divine look to the whole scenario. It is said that Lakshmi, Goddess of wealth roams the earth on this day and enters the house that is pure, clean and brightly illuminated. Young and old, men and women, all dress up in new clothes and buy new utensils on this day. They worship the deities, Lakshmi and Ganesha, and share sweets and gifts with their relatives and friends. It is also the beginning of the new financial year for the business community.
However, it is the crackers and the fireworks that attract the kids the most and form the highlight of the festival. Deepawali symbolises the victory of righteousness and the lifting of spiritual darkness. It is the celebartion of victory of good over evil - and the glory of light.
DIWALI 2008 : Diwali falls on a new moon day in the month of October or November. Since the precise moment of the new moon falls on different dates depending on geographical location, the date of Diwali also depends on one's location. In 2008 Diwali will be celebrated on 28th October.
Friday, March 21, 2008
List of Indian Festivals in July 2008
List of Festivalss for month of July 2008:
16/7/2008 Wednesday - Rath Yatra
18/7/2008 Friday - Guru Poornima
16/7/2008 Wednesday - Rath Yatra
18/7/2008 Friday - Guru Poornima
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