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 indian festivals list. Show all posts
Showing posts with label indian festivals list. Show all posts
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Christmas 2008 - Merry Xmas - Santa Claus - Festival
Indian Festivals List
December 25th is the day of celebration and of fun and frolic. As the long awaited winter holidays arrive, Christmas spirit builds up. In India it is major festivals celebrated after Diwali every year. The lovely snowflakes, our dear Santa, decorated homes complete with whole range of Christmas star, mistletoe, the good-luck plant, ivy, laurels and not the least the beautifully decorated and illuminated Christmas tree are some of the inseparable parts of the picture. The soft music of the Christmas carols and children eager to open their gifts certainly lend unique warmth to the coldest day of the year.
also see : Other Christian Festivals of India
The birth of Christ is perhaps the most popular festival around the world. The dark night sky, the chilly winters all just provide the perfect backdrop for the reigning red and green colors that cheer up the entire scenery. People visit their families and arrange some of the most lavish parties. The most awaited festival, the Christmas signifies love and kindness, joy and happiness. The holiday spirit of the season in one word is - infectious!
December 25th is the day of celebration and of fun and frolic. As the long awaited winter holidays arrive, Christmas spirit builds up. In India it is major festivals celebrated after Diwali every year. The lovely snowflakes, our dear Santa, decorated homes complete with whole range of Christmas star, mistletoe, the good-luck plant, ivy, laurels and not the least the beautifully decorated and illuminated Christmas tree are some of the inseparable parts of the picture. The soft music of the Christmas carols and children eager to open their gifts certainly lend unique warmth to the coldest day of the year.
also see : Other Christian Festivals of India
The birth of Christ is perhaps the most popular festival around the world. The dark night sky, the chilly winters all just provide the perfect backdrop for the reigning red and green colors that cheer up the entire scenery. People visit their families and arrange some of the most lavish parties. The most awaited festival, the Christmas signifies love and kindness, joy and happiness. The holiday spirit of the season in one word is - infectious!
We wish you a Merry Christmas
We wish you a Merry Christmas
We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Good tidings we bring to you and your kin
Good tidings for Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Oh, bring us a figgy pudding
Oh, bring us a figgy pudding
Oh, bring us a figgy pudding and a cup of good cheer: Refrain
We won't go until we get some
We won't go until we get some
We won't go until we get some, so bring some out here: Refrain
We wish you a Merry Christmas
We wish you a Merry Christmas
We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Indian Festivals List
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Eid UL Fitr | Muslim Festivals | Eid Fitr
back to Indian festivals list
Eid Ul Fitar or the festival of fast breaking is the biggest Muslim festival. Eid is derived from the Arabic word ‘oud’ or ‘the return’ to signify, well, the return of Eid each year. The festival is significant as much for its timing as for its religious implications.
It is celebrated after the fasting month of Ramzan (the ninth month of the Muslim year), on the first day of the Shavval month of the Hijri year (Muslim year). It is believed that the Koran was revealed to Prophet Mohammed in the month of Ramzan.105 million Muslims make India the second most populous Islamic nation in the world. They form India’s largest minority and constitute almost 12% of India’s total population.
Islam is also the most recent religion added to India’s already potent cultural concoction. Islam came to India in the 12th century a.d. and opened a dialogue with Indian culture especially under the Mughals. Needless to say, it was a mutually enriching experience. A majority of India’s Muslims live in the north but a significant number are found all around the country. Hence their traditions add yet another dimension to the vast cultural landscape of India.
back to Indian festivals list
Eid Ul Fitar or the festival of fast breaking is the biggest Muslim festival. Eid is derived from the Arabic word ‘oud’ or ‘the return’ to signify, well, the return of Eid each year. The festival is significant as much for its timing as for its religious implications.
It is celebrated after the fasting month of Ramzan (the ninth month of the Muslim year), on the first day of the Shavval month of the Hijri year (Muslim year). It is believed that the Koran was revealed to Prophet Mohammed in the month of Ramzan.105 million Muslims make India the second most populous Islamic nation in the world. They form India’s largest minority and constitute almost 12% of India’s total population.
Islam is also the most recent religion added to India’s already potent cultural concoction. Islam came to India in the 12th century a.d. and opened a dialogue with Indian culture especially under the Mughals. Needless to say, it was a mutually enriching experience. A majority of India’s Muslims live in the north but a significant number are found all around the country. Hence their traditions add yet another dimension to the vast cultural landscape of India.
back to Indian festivals list
Eid Ul Zuha | Bakra Eid | Muslim Festivals in world
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back to festivals list
The feast of Bakr-Id is an occasion to give and to sacrifice. It is a day to thank the Almighty for one's good fortune and to share it with the less fortunate brethren.Id-ul-Zuha, or Id-ul-Azha, as it is called in Arabic, translates as 'the feast of sacrifice'. Popularly, Bakr-Id is marked by the slaughter of animals as sacrificial offerings, after which the meat is distributed among the needy and deprived. However, the concept of sacrifice is better understood through an incident from the Old Testament, which is nothing but an explanation of the concept of Bakr-Id.
Historical BackgroundAs we look at the historical background of the Id-ul-Zuha, we gain information that Allah had commanded Hazrat Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Ismail on Mount Mina near Mecca. Ibrahim, unable to see himself kill his son, blindfolded himself and carried out the pronouncement of God. When he took off the blindfold, a lamb lay slaughtered on the altar and his son stood there unharmed. Ibrahim understood then that this willingness on his part to give up his only son was what God sought, and not the sacrifice of human flesh and blood. Thus, the history of Bakr-Id confirms the belief of the devouts that all God requires of man is a surrender of his will and self.
Like Ibrahim, who willingly surrenders his beloved son to God, a true follower of Islam is expected to sacrifice something that is dear to him. The animal sacrifices made during Bakr-Id are mainly to provide food to the poor and to commemorate the noble act of Ibrahim. This spirit of sacrifice is what truly underlines the spirit of Bakr-Id. Incidentally; the day also coincides with the day when the holy Quran was declared complete. RitualsBakr-Id is celebrated from the tenth to the twelfth day in the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah. Every year, while pilgrims to the Mount of Mina make animal sacrifices as part of the pilgrimage rituals, Muslims the world over celebrate Bakr-Id in a similar fashion.
Every true Muslim who possesses wealth equal to or more than 400 grams of gold or is capable of affording two square meals a day, is expected to sacrifice an animal. A goat (also called bakri, hence Bakr-Id), sheep, camel or any other four-legged animal is slaughtered during one of the three days of the festival, and the meat is distributed. The sacrificial offering is divided in three parts - one for the self, another for friends, and the third, most importantly, for the needy. The sacrifice can be offered at any time before the afternoon of the third day. Festivities mark the first day, when people wear new clothes, offer prayers at the mosque, and greet friends and relatives. Special prayers are offered on all three days.
It is said that the celebrations are carried on over three days to ensure that the entire Muslim community partakes in the noble of act of giving and sharing. Celebrated InBakr-Id is celebrated all over India with much fervour, as it is in the rest of Islamic world. The name Bakr-Id, however, is most popular in India. In Arabic, the feast is usually referred to as Id-ul-Azha or Id-ul-Zuha.
back to festivals list
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Navaratri - Grest Indian Hindu festival celebrated throughout
Other Indian Festivals Details
'Nav' means 'nine' and 'ratri' means 'night', thus, 'Navratri' means 'nine nights'. There are many legends attached to the conception of Navratri like all Indian festivals but all of them are related to Goddess Shakti (Hindu Mother Goddess) and her various forms. Though it is one of the most celebrated festivals of Hindu calendar, it holds special significance for Gujratis and Bengalis and one can see it in the zeal and fervor of the people with which they indulge in the festive activities of the season.
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 first three days of Navratri are dedicated to Goddess Durga (Warrior Goddess) dressed in red and mounted on a lion, next three to Goddess Lakshmi (Goddess of Wealth and Prosperity) dressed in gold and mounted on an owl and finally, last three to Goddess Saraswati (Goddess Of Knowledge) dressed in milky white and mounted on a pure white swan.
Dandiya and Garba Rass are the highlights of the festival in Gujarat while farmer sow seeds and thank the Goddess for her blessings and pray for better yield. In olden times, this festival was associated with the fertility of Mother Earth who feed us as her children. Sweetmeats are prepared for the celebrations and children and adults dress up in new bright-colored dresses for the night performances. With commercialization, the festival has moved on to be a social festival rather than a religious or agrarian festival.
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 some communities people undergo rigorous fasts during this season that lasts for the nine days of the festival, only to be opened on the tenth day of Dussehra. However, nothing dampens the spirit of the devout followers of Mother Goddess as they sing devotional songs and indulge in the gaieties of the season. This year celebrate Navratra from September 29th, 2008.
Other Indian Festivals Details
'Nav' means 'nine' and 'ratri' means 'night', thus, 'Navratri' means 'nine nights'. There are many legends attached to the conception of Navratri like all Indian festivals but all of them are related to Goddess Shakti (Hindu Mother Goddess) and her various forms. Though it is one of the most celebrated festivals of Hindu calendar, it holds special significance for Gujratis and Bengalis and one can see it in the zeal and fervor of the people with which they indulge in the festive activities of the season.
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 first three days of Navratri are dedicated to Goddess Durga (Warrior Goddess) dressed in red and mounted on a lion, next three to Goddess Lakshmi (Goddess of Wealth and Prosperity) dressed in gold and mounted on an owl and finally, last three to Goddess Saraswati (Goddess Of Knowledge) dressed in milky white and mounted on a pure white swan.
Dandiya and Garba Rass are the highlights of the festival in Gujarat while farmer sow seeds and thank the Goddess for her blessings and pray for better yield. In olden times, this festival was associated with the fertility of Mother Earth who feed us as her children. Sweetmeats are prepared for the celebrations and children and adults dress up in new bright-colored dresses for the night performances. With commercialization, the festival has moved on to be a social festival rather than a religious or agrarian festival.
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 some communities people undergo rigorous fasts during this season that lasts for the nine days of the festival, only to be opened on the tenth day of Dussehra. However, nothing dampens the spirit of the devout followers of Mother Goddess as they sing devotional songs and indulge in the gaieties of the season. This year celebrate Navratra from September 29th, 2008.
Other Indian Festivals Details
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
Naag Panchami - Hindu Festival of Lord Shiva
Other Indian Festivals Details
It is on the fifth day of the bright half of the Shravan that Naga Panchami, or the festival of snakes, is celebrated. The setting sun is witness to mile-long processions of gaily-decorated bullock carts, cheerfully trundling to the nearby Shiva temple. The excitement and merry-go-round of a fair takes over, lasting well into the night. The snakes that the men had captured from the deep forests the week before can now return to where they came from.Snake worship no doubt owes its origin to man's natural fear of these reptiles.
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
Hindu books are filled with stories and fables about snakes, and pictures and images of them meet you at every turn. Worshippers search for holes where snakes are likely to be found. When they have found a hole, they make periodic visits, placing before it milk, bananas, and other food that the snake is likely to fancy. Because of its cyclical moulting, the serpent is believed to be immortal by the Hindus, and eternity is thus illustrated in the form of a serpent eating its tail. Temples have also been erected in honour of snakes.
There is a particularly famous one in Mysore, at a place called Subramania, which is also the name of the great snake (it is on this snake that Lord Vishnu reclines while sleeping in the sea), so often mentioned in Hindu fables. The Naga culture was fairly widespread in India before the Aryan invasion, and continues to be an important segment of worship in certain areas. After the invasion, the Indo-Aryans incorporated the worship of snakes into Hinduism, as is apparent in prevailing worship and mythology.
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 thousand-headed Ananta is Vishnu's couch and also holds up the earth, while snakes play an ornamental role in the case of Shiva. Snake worship is more common in peninsular India than in the north. On this day, ploughing a field is forbidden. Legend has it that on this day, while tilling his land, a farmer accidentally killed some young serpents. The mother of these serpents took revenge by biting and killing the farmer and his family, except one daughter, who happened to be praying to the Nagas.
This act of devotion resulted in the revival of the farmer and the rest of his family.On this day, the women draw figures of snakes on the walls of their houses using a mixture of black powder, cow dung and milk. Then offerings of milk, ghee, water and rice are made. It is believed that in reward for this worship, snakes will never bite any member of the family. In Maharashtra, snake charmers go from house to house carrying dormant cobras in cane baskets, asking for alms and clothing.
This festival heralds the arrival of Ganesha, almost exactly one month later. In Kerala, snake temples are crowded on this day and worship is offered to stone or metal icons of the cosmic serpent Ananta or Sesha. Altars in many Kerala homes have a silver or copper cobra that is worshipped and offered milk and sweets as families pray for the welfare of their children and for prosperity. In Punjab, the festival is celebrated in September-October and is called Guga Naumi. A snake made of dough is taken round the village in a basket, and an offering of flour and butter is made from each house.
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 'snake' is then buried. In West Bengal and parts of Assam and Orissa, the snake deity worshipped on Naga Panchami is the goddess Manasa. Lord Krishna and the Kaliya Snake: Nag Panchami is also connected with the following legend of Krishna. Young Krishna was playing with the other cowboys, when suddenly the ball got entangled in the high branch of a tree. Krishna volunteered to climb the tree and fetch the ball. But below the tree there was a deep part of the river Yamuna, in which the terrible snake Kaliya was living.
Everybody was afraid of that part of the river.Suddenly Krishna fell from the tree into the water. Then that terrible snake came up. But Krishna was ready and jumping on the snake’s head he caught it by the neck. Kaliya understood that Krishna was not an ordinary boy, and that it would not be easy to overcome him. So Kaliya pleaded with Krishna: “Please, do not kill me.” Krishna full of compassion asked the snake to promise that henceforth he would not harass anybody. Then he let the snake go free into the river again. On Nag Panchami day the victory of Krishna over the Kaliya snake is commemorated.
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
For this reason Krishna is known as “Kaliya Mardan”. Snakes are believed to like milk. As this is the day of the serpents, devotees pour milk into all the holes in the ground around the house or near the temple to propitiate them. Sometimes, a small pot of milk with some flowers is placed near the holes so that the snakes may drink it. If a snake actually drinks the milk, it is considered to be extremely lucky for the devotee. The festival is celebrated with much enthusiasm by all, especially women.As most rivers in India are in spate during the month of Shriven, poisonous snakes come out of their subterranean abodes and creep about in plenty all over the place.
Many also float on flooded rivers running through the countryside. Mortality from snakebites must have been considerable to prompt people to worship the nagas to seek protection from them. Because of the fear, nagas were elevated to a divine status by the Hindus. The serpents are believed to have the capability to change their shape at will. When in human form, they are depicted as beautiful women and handsome men.Naga Panchami is observed indifferent ways in different parts of 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 one of the most ancient fasts, and finds mention in the Puranas. It is believed to be one of the most auspicious days of the entire year. According to the Bhavishya Purana, when men bathe the snakes called Vasuki, Takshaka, Kaliya, Manibhadra, Airavata, Dhritarashtra, Karkotaka and Dhananjaya with milk on the fifth day of the bright fortnight of Shriven, they ensure freedom from danger for their families. In some parts of southern India, figures of snakes are drawn with red sandalwood paste on wooden boards, or clay images of snakes coloured yellow or black are purchased.
These are then worshipped and offered milk. Snake charmers wander about with all sorts of snakes, to which people offer milk. The snake charmers are paid some money for allowing this Serpent worship developed gradually from the fear of serpents that must have taken a heavy toll on life, particularly at the beginning of the rainy season. In the Ashvalayana Grihyasutra, the Paraskara Grihyasutra and other Grihyasutras, a rite called Sarpabali or 'offerings to serpents' was performed on the full moon night of Shriven. However the reason that it was moved from the full moon night to that of the fifth night of the bright fortnight is not apparent. It may be due to the slight change in the time of the onset of the rains.
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
It is on the fifth day of the bright half of the Shravan that Naga Panchami, or the festival of snakes, is celebrated. The setting sun is witness to mile-long processions of gaily-decorated bullock carts, cheerfully trundling to the nearby Shiva temple. The excitement and merry-go-round of a fair takes over, lasting well into the night. The snakes that the men had captured from the deep forests the week before can now return to where they came from.Snake worship no doubt owes its origin to man's natural fear of these reptiles.
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
Hindu books are filled with stories and fables about snakes, and pictures and images of them meet you at every turn. Worshippers search for holes where snakes are likely to be found. When they have found a hole, they make periodic visits, placing before it milk, bananas, and other food that the snake is likely to fancy. Because of its cyclical moulting, the serpent is believed to be immortal by the Hindus, and eternity is thus illustrated in the form of a serpent eating its tail. Temples have also been erected in honour of snakes.
There is a particularly famous one in Mysore, at a place called Subramania, which is also the name of the great snake (it is on this snake that Lord Vishnu reclines while sleeping in the sea), so often mentioned in Hindu fables. The Naga culture was fairly widespread in India before the Aryan invasion, and continues to be an important segment of worship in certain areas. After the invasion, the Indo-Aryans incorporated the worship of snakes into Hinduism, as is apparent in prevailing worship and mythology.
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 thousand-headed Ananta is Vishnu's couch and also holds up the earth, while snakes play an ornamental role in the case of Shiva. Snake worship is more common in peninsular India than in the north. On this day, ploughing a field is forbidden. Legend has it that on this day, while tilling his land, a farmer accidentally killed some young serpents. The mother of these serpents took revenge by biting and killing the farmer and his family, except one daughter, who happened to be praying to the Nagas.
This act of devotion resulted in the revival of the farmer and the rest of his family.On this day, the women draw figures of snakes on the walls of their houses using a mixture of black powder, cow dung and milk. Then offerings of milk, ghee, water and rice are made. It is believed that in reward for this worship, snakes will never bite any member of the family. In Maharashtra, snake charmers go from house to house carrying dormant cobras in cane baskets, asking for alms and clothing.
This festival heralds the arrival of Ganesha, almost exactly one month later. In Kerala, snake temples are crowded on this day and worship is offered to stone or metal icons of the cosmic serpent Ananta or Sesha. Altars in many Kerala homes have a silver or copper cobra that is worshipped and offered milk and sweets as families pray for the welfare of their children and for prosperity. In Punjab, the festival is celebrated in September-October and is called Guga Naumi. A snake made of dough is taken round the village in a basket, and an offering of flour and butter is made from each house.
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 'snake' is then buried. In West Bengal and parts of Assam and Orissa, the snake deity worshipped on Naga Panchami is the goddess Manasa. Lord Krishna and the Kaliya Snake: Nag Panchami is also connected with the following legend of Krishna. Young Krishna was playing with the other cowboys, when suddenly the ball got entangled in the high branch of a tree. Krishna volunteered to climb the tree and fetch the ball. But below the tree there was a deep part of the river Yamuna, in which the terrible snake Kaliya was living.
Everybody was afraid of that part of the river.Suddenly Krishna fell from the tree into the water. Then that terrible snake came up. But Krishna was ready and jumping on the snake’s head he caught it by the neck. Kaliya understood that Krishna was not an ordinary boy, and that it would not be easy to overcome him. So Kaliya pleaded with Krishna: “Please, do not kill me.” Krishna full of compassion asked the snake to promise that henceforth he would not harass anybody. Then he let the snake go free into the river again. On Nag Panchami day the victory of Krishna over the Kaliya snake is commemorated.
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
For this reason Krishna is known as “Kaliya Mardan”. Snakes are believed to like milk. As this is the day of the serpents, devotees pour milk into all the holes in the ground around the house or near the temple to propitiate them. Sometimes, a small pot of milk with some flowers is placed near the holes so that the snakes may drink it. If a snake actually drinks the milk, it is considered to be extremely lucky for the devotee. The festival is celebrated with much enthusiasm by all, especially women.As most rivers in India are in spate during the month of Shriven, poisonous snakes come out of their subterranean abodes and creep about in plenty all over the place.
Many also float on flooded rivers running through the countryside. Mortality from snakebites must have been considerable to prompt people to worship the nagas to seek protection from them. Because of the fear, nagas were elevated to a divine status by the Hindus. The serpents are believed to have the capability to change their shape at will. When in human form, they are depicted as beautiful women and handsome men.Naga Panchami is observed indifferent ways in different parts of India.
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It is one of the most ancient fasts, and finds mention in the Puranas. It is believed to be one of the most auspicious days of the entire year. According to the Bhavishya Purana, when men bathe the snakes called Vasuki, Takshaka, Kaliya, Manibhadra, Airavata, Dhritarashtra, Karkotaka and Dhananjaya with milk on the fifth day of the bright fortnight of Shriven, they ensure freedom from danger for their families. In some parts of southern India, figures of snakes are drawn with red sandalwood paste on wooden boards, or clay images of snakes coloured yellow or black are purchased.
These are then worshipped and offered milk. Snake charmers wander about with all sorts of snakes, to which people offer milk. The snake charmers are paid some money for allowing this Serpent worship developed gradually from the fear of serpents that must have taken a heavy toll on life, particularly at the beginning of the rainy season. In the Ashvalayana Grihyasutra, the Paraskara Grihyasutra and other Grihyasutras, a rite called Sarpabali or 'offerings to serpents' was performed on the full moon night of Shriven. However the reason that it was moved from the full moon night to that of the fifth night of the bright fortnight is not apparent. It may be due to the slight change in the time of the onset of the rains.
Other Indian Festivals Details
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Maha Shivaratri - Major Indian Festival
Indian festivals List
Mahashivaratri is one of the most important festivals / occasion for all the hindus through out the world it is celebrated on 14th day of the dark half of Magh the great night of Shiva is celebrated. On this day the devotees of Shiva observe fast.
also see - Diwali--- --Holi------Dussehra
Once a hunter set out for a hunt. He came near a pond, and for the purpose of hunting he climbed a “bel” tree (sacred to Shiva). Sitting on a branch he waited for game. But since the leaves obstructed his vision, he began to pluck a few leaves, which by chance fell on a Shiva Linga (“pindi”), which happened to be under that tree. Then a herd of deer came to drink water. The hunter took aim at a hind (female deer). But as she noticed the movement of the hunter, she cried out, “Please, wait a moment, before you shoot let me go home and meet my young ones for the last time. Afterwards you may take my life at your pleasure.”
The hunter gave the hind permission to go home, and re-mained sitting on the tree waiting for her to return. Waiting the whole night he was forced to observe fast. On the Shiva Linga he had inadvertently offered the “bel” leaves. With his mouth he uttered the name of Shiva, thus he fulfilled the conditions needed for the observance of the Maha Shiva Ratra vow. So without knowing how, his heart was changed and he was filled with sentiments of mercy.
Before dawn the mother deer came back with the entire herd. “Now you may take my life at your pleasure,” she said. Seeing the hind’s honesty the hunter’s heart was further softened, and he completely gave up his thought of killing the hind. Shankar was so pleased that immediately making all of them sit in a plane he took them to heaven. Both the hind and the hunter can be seen at night in the sky among the stars in the constellation of Orion (“Mrugshirsh nakshatra”).
Shiva the “God with three eyes”
“It is probable that, long before the arrival of the Aryans, the ‘great god’ (‘Mahadeva’ or ‘Maheshvara’) was wor-shipped in India.” Mount Kailas in the Himalayas is the abode of Shiva. “The Ganges came down from the heavens because Shiva bore on the matted locks of his head the forceful impact of her falling torrents.”
“He creates and destroys, he sustains the world, he at times obscures by his power of illusion (maya), or offers grace to the suffering world. These are the fivefold activities of Siva, symbolised by the five faces of the god (Pancanana). He sees the past, the present and the future by means of his three eyes (Trilocana). To save the earth, he drank the poison and his throat became dark-blue (Nilakantha). A moon’s crescent round or above his central eye (Candrasekhara), clad like an ascetic with a tiger-skin, he holds a trident (Pinaka) in his hand; he rides the bull Nandi.
Some of his images represent him as a four-armed person-age, two of the hands holding a battle-axe (khadga) and a deer, the two other hands in poses signifying assurance of safety and liberality; in some other representations, he carries a bow, a thunderbolt, an axe, a skull-capped staff, a drum.”
Shiva’s family is composed of his wife Uma (Sakti) and their two sons Ganesh and Kartikeya (Subrahmanya). Their respective mounts are the bull, the lion, the mouse and the peacock.
Male and Female
“In the full figure of Siva the male and female principles are united, and he himself is said to be half man and half woman. The emblem under which he particularly delights to be worshipped is the lingam or phallus, which is always erect. Lingam and yoni (the female organ) represent the totality of his nature and the totality of all created exist-ence.”
“Despite the fact that he (Siva) was later to inspire the tender love among his devotees, he remains a mysterium tremendum et fascinosum: he terrifies and he fascinates. Unlike Vishnu and his incarnations there is little that is human about him; he transcends humanity, and the vio-lence of the contradictions that he subsumes into himself gives him a sublimity and a mystery that no purely anthro-pomorphic figure could evoke. The Saktas of a later time sought to realize in themselves the perfect union of the male and female principles in the one by combining the strictest control of the senses with the sexual act itself.
A man and a woman, representing Siva and his Sakti, would be in close embrace but with the senses under such perfect control that no seminal discharge took place. Thus, it was claimed, the complete fusion of the male and female principles of Purusha and Prakrti, was realized in the One and indivis-ible Siva who, though ever chaste. In this close embrace which imitates the inseparable unity of Siva and Sakti, there is no distinction between liberation and creativity, between moksha and samsara, because the opposites are felt to have been transcended. The close union of the sexes is thus the most perfect representation in the sansaric world of the divine transcendence of all oppo-sites.”
Hindu's worship - Shiva Linga
The stone in its spherical form untouched by the sculptor, is the form nearest to the formless. And the sexual union of male and female is the farthest the human mind can reach to express the creative action of God. This action, as God Himself, remains a mystery to man. All that man can do is to look at nature and see how a new being comes into existence. Since nature is the work of God, it is logical to conclude that both the male and the female principles must be found in God Himself, the sexes being only a manifestation of God’s nature. At the level of symbolism, the Shiva Linga or the stone with the semi-spherical top, makes a positive contribution in man’s effort to express the Divine Mystery. Nilakantha
The demons and the celestials agreed to churn the ocean of milk. Mount Sumeru was the churning staff, the snake Vasuki the churning rope. They wanted to get ambrosia. But when they were about to get the desired nectar, poison came from the mouth of the snake. Frightened the gods and the demons ran away. They had recourse to Shiva, the Great God. Shiva out of compassion swal-lowed the deadly poison, which remained as a blue stain on his throat. Hence the name Nilakantha. Saved from the danger the Devas and Asuras resumed churning the ocean and shared the ambrosia that was obtained.
Twelve Jyotirlingas - of lord Shiva
The Shiva Linga is the most common object of worship all over India. But twelve such stones are considered more important and are known as Jyotirlinga. They are situated in the following places:
1. Omkareshwar in Madhya Pradesh
2. Rameshwar in Tamil Nadu
3. Bhimashankar in Daminyal near Pune in Maharashtra
4. Mahakaleshwar in Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh
5. Somanath in Saurashtra
6. Nageshwar in Dwarka
7. Mallika1 in Uttar Pradesh,
8. Kedarnath in the Himalayas,
9. Dhushmeshwar in Ellora near Aurangabad
10. Trimbakeshwar near Nashik
11. Vishvanath in Benares and
12. Vaidyanath in Parli in Marathvada.
Mahashivaratri is one of the most important festivals / occasion for all the hindus through out the world it is celebrated on 14th day of the dark half of Magh the great night of Shiva is celebrated. On this day the devotees of Shiva observe fast.
also see - Diwali--- --Holi------Dussehra
Once a hunter set out for a hunt. He came near a pond, and for the purpose of hunting he climbed a “bel” tree (sacred to Shiva). Sitting on a branch he waited for game. But since the leaves obstructed his vision, he began to pluck a few leaves, which by chance fell on a Shiva Linga (“pindi”), which happened to be under that tree. Then a herd of deer came to drink water. The hunter took aim at a hind (female deer). But as she noticed the movement of the hunter, she cried out, “Please, wait a moment, before you shoot let me go home and meet my young ones for the last time. Afterwards you may take my life at your pleasure.”
The hunter gave the hind permission to go home, and re-mained sitting on the tree waiting for her to return. Waiting the whole night he was forced to observe fast. On the Shiva Linga he had inadvertently offered the “bel” leaves. With his mouth he uttered the name of Shiva, thus he fulfilled the conditions needed for the observance of the Maha Shiva Ratra vow. So without knowing how, his heart was changed and he was filled with sentiments of mercy.
Before dawn the mother deer came back with the entire herd. “Now you may take my life at your pleasure,” she said. Seeing the hind’s honesty the hunter’s heart was further softened, and he completely gave up his thought of killing the hind. Shankar was so pleased that immediately making all of them sit in a plane he took them to heaven. Both the hind and the hunter can be seen at night in the sky among the stars in the constellation of Orion (“Mrugshirsh nakshatra”).
Shiva the “God with three eyes”
“It is probable that, long before the arrival of the Aryans, the ‘great god’ (‘Mahadeva’ or ‘Maheshvara’) was wor-shipped in India.” Mount Kailas in the Himalayas is the abode of Shiva. “The Ganges came down from the heavens because Shiva bore on the matted locks of his head the forceful impact of her falling torrents.”
“He creates and destroys, he sustains the world, he at times obscures by his power of illusion (maya), or offers grace to the suffering world. These are the fivefold activities of Siva, symbolised by the five faces of the god (Pancanana). He sees the past, the present and the future by means of his three eyes (Trilocana). To save the earth, he drank the poison and his throat became dark-blue (Nilakantha). A moon’s crescent round or above his central eye (Candrasekhara), clad like an ascetic with a tiger-skin, he holds a trident (Pinaka) in his hand; he rides the bull Nandi.
Some of his images represent him as a four-armed person-age, two of the hands holding a battle-axe (khadga) and a deer, the two other hands in poses signifying assurance of safety and liberality; in some other representations, he carries a bow, a thunderbolt, an axe, a skull-capped staff, a drum.”
Shiva’s family is composed of his wife Uma (Sakti) and their two sons Ganesh and Kartikeya (Subrahmanya). Their respective mounts are the bull, the lion, the mouse and the peacock.
Male and Female
“In the full figure of Siva the male and female principles are united, and he himself is said to be half man and half woman. The emblem under which he particularly delights to be worshipped is the lingam or phallus, which is always erect. Lingam and yoni (the female organ) represent the totality of his nature and the totality of all created exist-ence.”
“Despite the fact that he (Siva) was later to inspire the tender love among his devotees, he remains a mysterium tremendum et fascinosum: he terrifies and he fascinates. Unlike Vishnu and his incarnations there is little that is human about him; he transcends humanity, and the vio-lence of the contradictions that he subsumes into himself gives him a sublimity and a mystery that no purely anthro-pomorphic figure could evoke. The Saktas of a later time sought to realize in themselves the perfect union of the male and female principles in the one by combining the strictest control of the senses with the sexual act itself.
A man and a woman, representing Siva and his Sakti, would be in close embrace but with the senses under such perfect control that no seminal discharge took place. Thus, it was claimed, the complete fusion of the male and female principles of Purusha and Prakrti, was realized in the One and indivis-ible Siva who, though ever chaste. In this close embrace which imitates the inseparable unity of Siva and Sakti, there is no distinction between liberation and creativity, between moksha and samsara, because the opposites are felt to have been transcended. The close union of the sexes is thus the most perfect representation in the sansaric world of the divine transcendence of all oppo-sites.”
Hindu's worship - Shiva Linga
The stone in its spherical form untouched by the sculptor, is the form nearest to the formless. And the sexual union of male and female is the farthest the human mind can reach to express the creative action of God. This action, as God Himself, remains a mystery to man. All that man can do is to look at nature and see how a new being comes into existence. Since nature is the work of God, it is logical to conclude that both the male and the female principles must be found in God Himself, the sexes being only a manifestation of God’s nature. At the level of symbolism, the Shiva Linga or the stone with the semi-spherical top, makes a positive contribution in man’s effort to express the Divine Mystery. Nilakantha
The demons and the celestials agreed to churn the ocean of milk. Mount Sumeru was the churning staff, the snake Vasuki the churning rope. They wanted to get ambrosia. But when they were about to get the desired nectar, poison came from the mouth of the snake. Frightened the gods and the demons ran away. They had recourse to Shiva, the Great God. Shiva out of compassion swal-lowed the deadly poison, which remained as a blue stain on his throat. Hence the name Nilakantha. Saved from the danger the Devas and Asuras resumed churning the ocean and shared the ambrosia that was obtained.
Twelve Jyotirlingas - of lord Shiva
The Shiva Linga is the most common object of worship all over India. But twelve such stones are considered more important and are known as Jyotirlinga. They are situated in the following places:
1. Omkareshwar in Madhya Pradesh
2. Rameshwar in Tamil Nadu
3. Bhimashankar in Daminyal near Pune in Maharashtra
4. Mahakaleshwar in Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh
5. Somanath in Saurashtra
6. Nageshwar in Dwarka
7. Mallika1 in Uttar Pradesh,
8. Kedarnath in the Himalayas,
9. Dhushmeshwar in Ellora near Aurangabad
10. Trimbakeshwar near Nashik
11. Vishvanath in Benares and
12. Vaidyanath in Parli in Marathvada.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Dussehra - Major Indian hindu festival celebrated
back to list of indian festivals
Festival of Dussehra is celebrated with great pomp and show through out india, Dussehra is related with the festival of diwali (as both are part of same epic Ramayana - the legend of Prince Rama of Ayodhya) . Dussehra or Vijaydashmi is always celebrated 20 days before the festival of diwali according to Hindu calender.
Dussehra or Dassera is a popular festival celebrated by Hindus all over India, albeit with different names. It is also known as Vijayadashmi ('Vijay' meaning 'victory' and 'Dashmi meaning 'tenth day) as it is believed that it was on this day that Lord Rama killed the demon-king, Ravana and won over Lanka, his kingdom. In other words, it signifies the triumph of good over evil.
The legendary triumph is reenacted to the day. Huge effigies of Ravana, his giant brother Kumbhkarna and son Meghnad are placed in vast open grounds. Fireworks and crackers are placed inside these and actor dressed as Rama, his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana enact the final moments of the battle. The character playing Rama then shoots an arrow with a flaming tip at the effigies from a safe distance and the crowd bursts up in cheer as the crackers catch fire.
The enthusiasm and the cheers sometimes even drown the deafening blast. Merriment ensues as people indulge themselves in fairs and games, dance and music. However, Bengalis celebrate this festival as a part of their main festival Durga Puja.
This day marks the end of Durga Punja celebration, the fiest nine being collectively referred to as 'Navratri'. The festival is dedicated to Mother Goddess Shakti who incarnated in the form of Goddess Durga, a combined manifestation of the divine energies of the Holy Trinity - Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh and all the other devatas, when they summoned her to kill the mighty demon known as Mahishasur and free the world from his terror.
On this day, the idols of Goddess Durga are finally immersed into water after the nine days of festivities. It is said that the people of the earth here adopted Durga as the daughter and thus, she visits the home of her parents every year during the last four days of Navratri along with her sons Ganesha and Kartikeya and daughters Lakshmi and Saraswati. She finally leaves for her husband's place on the Vijayadashmi day.
Dussehera in 2008 - Dussehera will fall on 9th October in Year 2008.
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.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Alaska | Arizona | Arkanas | Colorado | Connecticut Festivals in USA List
It's a request to visitor's that if they know any special information about any of festivals mentioned below then kindly describe about the information in comments to the post - your kind act would help to create a reliable festival blog , don't forget to mention your name along with the comment.
Alaska Festivals List
Homer - Summer String Festival
Juneau - ALASKA FOLK FESTIVAL
Arizona Festivals List (USA) :
Grand Canyon - Music Festival
Phoenix - Arizona State Fair
Arkanasas Festivals List :
Murfreesboro - Diamond Festival
North Little Rock - Bluesfest 2000
Fort Smith - Riverfront Blues Festival
Jonesboro - Blues Fest
Little Rock - Arkansas State Fair
Little Rock - Greek Food Festival
Other American festivals Details
Alaska Festivals List
Homer - Summer String Festival
Juneau - ALASKA FOLK FESTIVAL
Arizona Festivals List (USA) :
Grand Canyon - Music Festival
Phoenix - Arizona State Fair
Arkanasas Festivals List :
Murfreesboro - Diamond Festival
North Little Rock - Bluesfest 2000
Fort Smith - Riverfront Blues Festival
Jonesboro - Blues Fest
Little Rock - Arkansas State Fair
Little Rock - Greek Food Festival
Colorado Festivals List - USA
Glennwood - Culinary Arts, Wine and Brew Fest
Telluride - Blues and Brews Festival
Pagosa Springs - Four Corners Folk Festival
Boulder - Shakespeare Festival
Larkspur - Renaissance Festival
Festivals of Connecticut List (USA) :
Shelton - Southern CT Pagan Pride Day--Celebrate Diversity
Bethlehem - Garlic & Harvest Festival
New London - Boats, Books and Brushes With Taste Festival
Southington - Apple Harvest Festival
New Haven - International Festival of Arts and Ideas
Other American festivals Details
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
List of Festivals celebrated in India
India is a diverse land consisiting of many religions but majorly Hinduism is prevelant in Indian subcontinent with over 80% of total population being hindu population, other religions include Sikhism, Christanity, Budhism, Jainism, Islam, zoroastrian etc.
So a lot of festivals are celebrated in india majority of them are covered in this list according to the religion:
HINDU FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN INDIA:
So a lot of festivals are celebrated in india majority of them are covered in this list according to the religion:
HINDU FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN INDIA:
- Baisakhi
- Diwali
- Durga Puja
- Dussehra
- Onam
- Holi
- Janmashtami
- Karwa Chauth
- Mahashivaratri
- Makar Sankranti
- Naag Panchami
- Ganesh Chaturthi
- Navratri
- Pongal
- Rakhi
- Ramnavami
CHRISTIAN FESTIVALS IN INDIA:
SIKH FESTIVALS IN INDIA:
MUSLIM FESTIVALS IN INDIA:
BUDDHIST FESTIVALS IN INDIA:
ZOROASTRIAN FESTIVALS IN INDIA:
NATIONAL FESTIVALS OF INDIA:
- Children's Day
- Gandhi Jayanti
- Independence Day
- Republic Day
- Teacher's Day
GENERAL FESTIVALS IN INDIA:
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