Festivals of India

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Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti festival in India is one of the widely celebrated
festivals in India. Celebrated all over the country with different
names, this festival is known to bring a wave of celebration all
over India.
In South India Makar Sankranti is called Pongal, in North India it
is called Lohri, while in Western India particularly Gujarat it is
celebrated by flying colourful kites. Lots of Hindus assemble on
auspicious places and pray to the Sun God.
Significance
of
this
day:
Literally Makar means Capricorn and Sankranti stands for
transition. Astrologically there is a Sankranti every month when
the sun passes from one zodiac sign to the next one. Since there
are 12 zodiac signs there are 12 Sankrantis. Each of these
Sankrantis have their own importance but Mesh (Aries)
Sankranti and Makar (Capricorn) Sankranti are considered more
prominent.
Makar Sankranti is the transition of the Sun from Sagittarius to
Capricorn, during winter. From this day begins the six-month
long Uttarayana. Makar Sankranti is celebrated in the Hindu
month of Magha. After Sankranti the days start becoming longer
and a lot warmer.
Culture & Festivities:
Uttar Pradesh:
In Uttar Pradesh, Sankranti is called Khichiri. Devotees make a
beeline to exchange Sankranti greetings and take a dip in the
holy rivers.
Tamil Nadu:
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In Tamil Nadu Sankranti is called Pongal. Women prepare a rice
and milk sweet preparation which is called pongal. This pongal is
offered to the Sun God.
Andhra Pradesh:
In Andhra Pradesh, this is celebrated as a four-day festival. It is a
big event for Andhraites, particularly the farmer community. The
festival begins with Bhogi, the second day is called Sankranti, the
third day Kanuma and the celebrations conclude with
Mukkanuma, which falls on the fourth day.
Maharashtra:
In Maharashtra people exchange tilguls (sweets made from
sesame seeds and jaggery). On this day people aim to forget the ill
events of the past and resolve to be nice to each other.
This is a special day for the women in Maharashtra when married
women are invited for a get together called Haldi-Kumkum where
they are given gifts.
Gujarat:
In Gujarat Sankranti is observed with the same fervour as other
parts of the country. On this day the elders in the family buy gifts
for the younger members of the family. Also, kite flying is a big
ritual that is followed on this day. All members of the community
get together for this event on this day.
Punjab:
Huge bonfires are lit for Lohri. Sweets, sugarcane and corn are
thrown into the bonfires. The people of the community also dance
and enjoy a lavish dinner together.
Orissa:
People in Orissa get together and light a bonfire. They dance
together, eat good food and also put up handmade trinkets for
sale.
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Thus our country gains its colourful profile with a celebration so
vivid in different states yet binding with a single thread running
through it.
Baisakhi
Baisakhi is one of the major festivals celebrated by
the Sikh community the world over. This day has a huge religious
significance as it was on this day that Guru Gobind Singh, the
10th Sikh Guru laid the foundation of Panth Khalsa (the Order of
the Pure Ones). This occasion is also particularly auspicious for
farmers as it is the harvest time for Rabi crops.
When is it celebrated?
Baisakhi falls on the first day of Vaisakh month according to
Nanakshahi (Sikh Calendar). According to English calendar,
Baisakhi falls on April 13 or 14. Baisakhi celebrations coincide
with Rongali Bihu in Assam, Naba Barsha in Bengal, Puthandu
in Tamil Nadu and Pooram Vishu in Kerala.
Baisakhi celebrations
Usually people wake up early to prepare for Baisakhi
celebrations. After getting ready people generally pay a visit to the
neighbourhood gurdwara and take part in the special prayer
meetings organized for the special day. At the end of the ardas
(prayer meet), the devotees receive specially prepared Kara prasad
(sweet prepared with semolina). This is followed by a community
lunch where everyone sits together on the floor in rows and is
served food. This system is followed to stress on the point that
everyone is equal in Gods eyes.
Baisakhi procession
Later during the day, Sikhs stage a Baisakhi procession wherein
the sacred Guru Granth Sahib is taken out. Towards the end of
the procession the Panj Piaras, that stand for the five fearless
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devotees, are baptized. These processions are attended by men,
women and children and the procession moves through major
colonies of the city. Bhangra and gidda dances are also performed
during these processions. Devotees chant Joh Bole So Nihal and
Satnam and Wahe guru through the procession. Some Sikhs also
actively
participate
in
charity
acts
on
this
day.
Significance of Baisakhi for the Sikh community
Baisakhi is a very important day for people of the Sikh faith. This
is because it was on a Baisakhi Day in 1699 that the 10th Guru
of Sikhs, Guru Gobind Singh founded the Khalsa Panth also
called Order of Pure Ones. It was on this day that Guru Gobind
Singhji distributed amrit (nectar) to his first five disciples. Also on
this day he renamed all Sikhs as Singhs to eradicate the
differences
of
classes
and
castes.
Baisakhi for farmers
For the farming community of Punjab and Haryana, Baisakhi
marks the beginning of the New Year as rabi crop is harvested
during this time. On this day farmers thank the Almighty for the
good crop and also pray for prosperous times in the New Year.
Most people purchase new clothes and celebrate by singing,
dancing and enjoying good food. Several villagers also organise
Punjabi Baisakhi fairs that have recreational activities like
wrestling competitions.
Diwali festival
Diwali is one of the longest celebrated and most prominent
festivals celebrated by the Hindu community. It was on this day
that Lord Rama returned home after defeating Ravana. People
celebrate this festival by making sweets at home, buying new
clothes and gold, visiting friends and decorating their homes.
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Diwali legends
Diwali is widely celebrated as the day when Lord Rama returned
to Ayodhya after defeating demon king Ravana in Lanka. It was
on this day that the royal families of Ayodhya and Mithila (the
kingdom of which Sita was princess) were lit up with rows of
lamps, glittering on the dark night of Amavasya (moonless night)
to welcome King Rama and his wife. This day also marked the
end of the 14-year exile they were subjected to.
In rural areas, Diwali was also known to be a harvest festival. The
farmers usually celebrated Diwali to mark the end of a cropping
season. Farmers bought new clothes, made sweets and celebrated
to thank the Almighty for the bountiful crop.
Legend has it that, Narakasura, a monster, ruled a kingdom
called Pradyoshapuram and was known to be a huge trouble
maker. When Lord Indra approached Lord Krishna and pleaded
to protect him and other Gods from the demon Krishna cursed
the demon. With Krishna as the charioteer Satyabhama entered
the battle field and killed the demon Narakasura. The killing of
this demon symbolises victory of good over evil. It is also said
that Bhudevi, mother of the slain demon Narakasura, declared
that his death should not be mourned but celebrated. Since then,
Diwali is being celebrated by people as a joyous occasion
complete with fireworks and fun.
It is also said that on this day Godess Lakhshmi emerged from
the ocean of milk. It was on this day that this goddess blessed
mankind with prosperity and wealth. Hence it is said that every
home that is cleaned and worships the goddess is visited by the
goddess herself.
Five days of Diwali Dhanteras:
On this day people buy gold or some metallic object as making
such a purchase is considered auspicious
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Narak Chaturdasi : This day is chhoti (small) Diwali and is
celebrated with equal fervour as the main day. People light diyas
and burn Diwali crackers on this day
Diwali (Lakshmi Puja): This is the main Diwali day and people
light diyas, draw rangolis on their doorstep and worship Goddess
Lakshmi. Several people also send Diwali e-cards to each other
and
visit
friends
and
exchange
Diwali
sweets
Govardhan puja: On this day, Govardhan Pooja is performed.
Many years back, Lord Krishna asked the people of Vraja to
perform this puja. From then on, every year Hindus worship
Govardhan on this day
Bhai Dhuj: On this day brothers visit their sisters to enquire
about their well being. So the next time around while celebrating
Diwali you will know the legends behind this special festival.
Durga Puja
Durga puja is a festival for which every true Bengali waits all year
long. Celebrated by giving gifts, attending puja pandals and
having festive meals together, Durga puja holds a special place in
every Bengalis heart.
About Maa Durga : Durga literally means she who is difficult to
reach in Sanskrit. Goddess Durga is worshipped as a form of
Shakti or energy. She represents the infinite energy of the
universe and is a symbol of undying dynamism. Goddess Durga
is also popularly called by other names like Parvati, Ambika and
Kali. She is known as the wife of Lord Shiva and mother of
Ganesha, Karttikeya and daughters Lakshmi and Saraswati.
Her appearance
In pictures and idols Goddess Durga is usually seen having 10
hands holding a sword, conch, discus, rosary, bell, wine cup,
shield, bow, arrow and a spear. She is seen riding a lion. She is
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mostly dressed a blood red sari and wears many ornaments. She
wears a crown too on her glorious head.
As the legend goes: Goddess Durga was forced to arrive when
monster demon Mahishasur gained strength and started
troubling Gods and people alike. The Gods were afraid of this
demon because neither Lord Vishnu nor Shiva could defeat him.
It was Maa Durgas energy that could alone defeat Mahishasur.
Goddess Durga sat on a lion and conquered and killed the demon
and restored peace in heaven that was robbed ever since
Mahishasur gained strength. Since then Durga Maa is invoked to
celebrate her victory over evil.
The revered Goddess
Goddess Durga has been worshipped from 400 AD. Her literary
references date back to the Ramayana and Mahabharata and her
name is also mentioned in the ancient puranas. In general, Maa
Durga is worshipped in North India as the gentle bride
symbolising family unity while in South India she is worshipped
for the warrior in her.
Celebrating the festival
Durga puja begins with recitation and listening of Mahalaya.
Thousands gather to offer prayers to their ancestors at the city's
river. Special pre dawn chanting is rendered to mark the
beginning of the three-day celebrations. The celebratory mood
builds up as Dhakis (drummers) beat drums in a rhythmic
manner.
The main puja is for three days - Mahasaptami, Mahaastami,
Mahanavami. Priests chant mantras, shlokas and artis are sung.
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Hundreds of people line up before the decorated crowded
pandals. Along with pujas even recreational songs and dances
are organised. People sit together and have huge lunches and
dinners and interact with other members of the community.
Though in the 1600s this was a festival meant for the rich
zamindars (landlords) Durga puja has now become a community
festival. People forget the differences of caste and class when they
assemble to seek divine blessings. After the three days of puja, on
Dashami, a tearful farewell is bid to the revered Goddess.
Thus Durga puja is undoubtedly the largest festival celebrated in
Bengal.
Dussehra
Dussehra
is
a
popular
festival
celebrated
by
the Hindu community all over India, with different names and
styles of celebrations. In some parts of the country Dussehra is
also called Vijayadashmi - Vijay meaning victory and Dashmi
meaning the tenth day. It was on this day that Lord Rama
defeated and killed the demon king Ravana of Lanka and rescued
his abducted wife Sita from Ravanas clutches. In other words,
Dussehra is a festival that marks the triumph of good over evil.
Celebration in North India
Particularly in North India Dussehra is celebrated by re enacting
this huge tussle between Lord Rama and Ravana. The stage is set
and huge effigies of Ravana, brother Kumbhkarna and son
Meghnath are erected in vast open grounds. Fireworks and
crackers are too placed inside the effigies. Actors dressed as
Rama, his wife Sita and brother Lakshman enact the battle scene
in front of a large audience. After the scene is enacted the
character playing Rama shoots an arrow at the three effigies and
the crackers catch fire. This marks the victory of good over evil.
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Celebrations in Bengal
Bengalis celebrate Dusshera as the last part of Durga Puja. This
is the last day of Durga puja. This day is dedicated to
Mother Goddess Shakti. It was Goddess Durga who is a
combination
of
divine
energies
of
Lord
Brahma
(creator), Vishnu (operator) and Mahesh (destroyer) and all the
other lords. This Goddess arrived when demon Mahishasur
gained strength and began troubling Gods and men alike. It was
this Shakti maa who freed Gods from the demons ugly clutches.
On Dusshera, the idols of Goddess Durga are immersed into a
water body, after nine days of continuous revelry and celebration.
It is said that the people of Bengal consider Goddess Durga as
their daughter and like every daughter she pays a visit to her
home every year on the last four days of Navratri. She is also said
to bring her sons Ganesha and Kartikeya and daughters Lakshmi
and Saraswati along. Durga is known to finally leave for her
husband's place on Dusshera day. Goddess Durga is received
with the same enthusiasm in Orissa and Assam as well. Huge
fares and community programmes are held in Her honour.
Celebration in South India
In the southern states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, Dusshera is
celebrated in a special way. This day is considered auspicious for
starting education in any art form like dance, music or fine arts.
Saraswati puja is also done on this day. In Karnataka, especially
Mysore and Andhra Pradesh, Dusshera is celebrated with huge
fanfare. Huge celebratory processions are staged in these states.
Thus Dusshera is one of the major festivals celebrated by people
across the country.
Onam
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Onam is the festival to welcome the home coming of King
Mahabali in Kerala. Onam marks the biggest festival of the
southern state in Kerala. It is celebrated in the months of August
&September. Festivities are spread over ten days and begin with
Atham and end with Tiruonam. On the first day, people have
bath early in the morning and offer prayers.
To welcome King Mahabali Poookalam, floral designs are
prepared in the courtyard by women in the house. A grand
procession is organized to symbolize the kings tour in the city
and back to his fort.
Pookalam making continues on all ten days it is the flower mat
making activity engaged by the women folk in their front yard.
The second and third day are Chithira and Chodi. People
organize get together's and exchange gifts on Chodi. It is an
occasion to call upon a shopping spree for the entire family as the
tradition of exchanging gifts has been there since a long time.
Children get it in the form of blessings and silver coins. After the
harvest is done, the farm produce is distributed by the elders
among family members and even the domestic helpers get their
due. With change in time the gifts have also changed to modern
day goodies.
On the fourth day, Visakam a special meal called Onasadya is
prepared. A legend behind the delicacies prepared on Visakam is
that King Mahabali requested God to allow him to visit his
kingdom every year and the same was granted. This nine course
meal with not less than 64 dishes is prepared for his very
homecoming. The platter of delicacies is served in a traditional
manner on a banana leaf. Though the entire meal is special, rice
is the most important recipe on the menu.
The other items on the menu are pappad, salt, banana wafers,
sarkarapuratti, ginger lime and mango pickles, 'vellarika',
'pavakka', beetroot and 'ullikitchadi'. 'Kitchadi' made of pineapple
and banana splits or of grapes and apple too are served.
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The cuisines made this day actually are to invite the king. The
fifth day is Anizham, the day of boat race event called Vallimkali.
This event is one of the major attractions for national and
international tourists. The snake boats race on the rhythm of the
boats songs called the vanchipattu. An ancient story that runs
around the boat race says that the snakes like boats were built to
save food from pirates. This food is prepared for Gods in
Arunmulla temple.
The sixth day is the Thriketa or the day of carnival. Lots of
traditional programmes including the songs and dances are held
to mark this day. The celebrations continue through the days of
Moolam, Pooradam, Uthradam and Thiruvonam.
Onam is also the harvest festival, on Uthradam the harvest is
brought home by the farmers. Another feature of Onam is the
grand elephant procession. Elephants on the occasion are
decorated with golden ornaments and flowers and paraded
through streets.
Holi
Holi-Festival of Colours
Over the years, the festival of colours Holi has been associated
with freshness and happiness. It has majorly influenced
Bollywood and the Indian film industry. It has become a tradition
in Hindi films to essay the festival of holi. Whether it is Navrang
or Silsila or Baghbaan all have picturized glorious Holi songs.
These songs have been well received by the people across nation.
Holi the festival of colours is marked with fervour and gaiety by
almost everybody in India. Holi comes in the Falgun maas of the
Hindu calandar and March of the English calendar year. Holi is
one of the favourite festivals among children and youth as they
are the ones who engage in it the most.
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The festival revolves around the much acknowledged legend of
Bhakt Prahlad and King Hiranyakashap. Prahlad worshipped
God Vishnu and revolted against his father Hiranyakashyap who
dictated his kingdom and ordered that everyone should worship
the king. When Prahlad disobeyed this order, his sister Holika
suggested burning Prahlad alive. But instead Holika got burnt.
The other legend says that people mark the occasion of Holi with
colours to signify the story of Radha Krishna playing Holi. Shri
Krishna was advised by mother Yashoda to colour Radhas face to
darken her complexion.
For centuries people have been observing two auspicious days of
Holi in the Falgun maas i.e. a day before holi and the main day.
The celebrations begin with bonfire and organize Holi get
togethers and play with colours. Instruments like the water
balloons, pichkaris and colours form a part of the preparations
for playing Holi.
People have now come to realize the importance of an eco friendly
Holi and environment cleanliness. People prefer organic and
natural colours. A lot of care is taken in choosing colours that
cause no harm to the environment, less water is used to play &
clean off the colour and usage of colours that do not damage skin
and eyes are used. Even the bonfire on this occasion is also
brunt with tree branches, straw and charcoal to avoid pollution.
After playing with colours, comes the time to enjoy delicacies
made for the occasion. Different types of items are prepared in
different parts of the country. These include sweets and snacks.
Some of the sweet preparations are the usual ones while some
prepare special ones like shrikhand, jalebi and not to forget
Thandai.
During the evenings, meeting & greeting family & friends begin
which goes on for the next two-three days. Often exchange of
sweets and gifts take place on these Holi Milan at these meetings.
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Besides, gifts are sent to friends and relations. A wide range of
greeting cards, short messages, e-cards are being used these
days along with the age old technique of sending cards through
letters and telegrams relatives and friends that cannot that stay
away from home.
Janmashtami
The birth of Lord Krishna was the incarnation of Lord
Vishnu. This incarnation was for ending the reign of evil Kansa
whose atrocities had been troubling mankind. Janmashtami is
observed is the Shravan maas on the eighth day, the birth falls in
Rohini nakshatra that is in the months of August-September.
It is ceremonious to rain heavily on the night lord Krishna was
born. It is said that Lord Krishna was born on a stormy night on
a rainy day. All rituals and puja happen after the birth of Krishna
i.e. after midnight. Krishna Janma is celebrated with great
enthusiasm throughout the country. The preparations begin
much before the day of Janmashtami.
A cradle is decorated with flowers and decorations. New clothes
and jewellery is made to order for Bal Krishna.
Celebrations resound for two days. The first day is the day before
midnight. Before Janma all the enthusiast devotees throng
temples and sing bhajans and songs signifying Krishna Janma.
After the birth, the ceremony of child birth and bhog (dishes
offered after puja) and aarti is done. The bhog consists of 56
varieties of food. People who observe fast on Janmashtami break
it with Prasad. Next day after birth, is Kalashtami.
The fervour of the festival is most in Mathura and Vrindavan
which have been mentioned to be the places of Krishna leela in
the mythology. The zeal among the people is much more than at
any other place. People place the baby idol of Lord Krishna in the
Grabh Griha (where he was born) before midnight. Devotees keep
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singing the bhajans and aartis all through the night and stories
depicting Krishna Leela are chanted to add to the flavour of the
night. Post birth, Abhishek is done with milk, ghee, curd butter,
water and flowers. Some also prepare Panchamrit (milk, ghee, oil,
honey
and
Gangajal)
for
the
Abhishek.
Rasleela is the traditional dance performed by all the devotees.
Another ceremony performed is Dahi Handi. Dahi Handi is an
earthen pot filled with curd hanged at a height. This pot is meant
to be broken by young men. These men symbolize Bal Krishna
and his friends. The Dahi handi is specially celebrated in
Mathura, Vrindavan, Dwarka and Mumbai.
To show the various life stages of Shri Krishna, tableaux are
taken out. Children, men and women dressed in colourful
traditional ghagra and cholis, dhoti kurta sing and dance along
the floats. People stop and welcome the tableaux at various
places.
Some
also
perform
aarti
to
the
idols.
It is a festival observed around the world. The chain of temples
like ISKON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness)
which work towards preaching teachings of Lord Krishna, observe
Janmashtami. The Hindu community across the globe comes
together and celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna.
Karwa Chauth
Karwa Chauth is a fast kept by married women and girls

likely to get married for the well being and long life of her
husband. This is one festival eagerly looked forward by all women
in India. The festival be celebrated on a great scale and involves
everybody, although it is only for women.
It is mostly observed by women belonging to the regions of
Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and
other states that form a part of the Hindi speaking belt of the
nation. Preparation for the festival begins much before.
The preparations comprise of shopping new clothes and jewellery,
sweets and snacks and applying mehendi on the palms of
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women. Markets are flooded with these items many days before
Karwa Chauth. Different regions have different meanings for the
festival. In Punjab it means well being and long life of the
husband, in Rajasthan it is known as Vat Purnima. Women here
fast to get married to the same man as husband for all seven lives
and fill mud pot with rice and wheat which are known as the
Karwas. For women in Uttar Pradesh, women pray to Goddess
Gauri, moon and sun. They draw pictures of these Gods, make
karwas and perform puja.
The rituals followed are more or less in all regions. The festival is
important for new brides. Customarily they get gifts of jewellery
and clothes from their mother in law.
A lot of stories have been associated with Karwa Chauth. The well
known ones are that of Queen Veeravati, Satyawan-Savitri and
Draupadi. All three ladies in these stories were encouraged to fast
for their husbands long life and well being. They prayed to
Goddess Gauri and God Shankar on the occasion.
Along with these mythological stories, there is also a belief that
drives through the festival. It is said that the festival is also to
give ode to the friendship between two women. In the olden days,
when girls were married in childhood, it was a common practice
to befriend another girl in the village of the in laws. This girl
would come forward to help the friend in time of crises created by
her in laws and husband. Slowly, the festival of Karwa Chauth
started becoming an occasion to celebrate this friendship. Even
now, Karwa Chauth is celebrated by women along with their
family and friends.
Customs have not changed much though; even now brides receive
Sargi, Baya gifts in the form of jewellery and clothes from in-laws
and husbands. All these gifts are considered very significant as
they are gifted to married women and the gifts symbolize their
happy marriage or suhag. Items like bangles, jewellery, colourful
clothes and mahendi are all considered auspicious.
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Mother-in-laws gift 'sargi' to their daughter-in-laws. It is a
collection of food of various types of sweetmeats and sometime
clothes. It is meant to be eaten before sunrise. The fast starts
before sunrise and ends after moon rise. The Baya or the thali
(plate) which is exchanged by the women in the evening at the
time of puja is gifted by the new brides parents to her husband.
Baya contains few Mathis, Almonds and some gifts.
Jewellery still is considered as an important gift on the occasion.
The jewellery market starts flooding with new designs that match
with the latest fashion. Talking of clothes many fashion studios
have started designing lenhenga cholis for Karwa Chauth.
Mehendi is considered a symbol of good fortune for married
women, in the Indian culture. The traditional mehendi designs
have also seen a lot of change. Marwadi, Bombay and Arabian,
chemical mehendis are all in demand and address women of all
ages. The latest among the designs are the henna tattoos which
are easy to apply, quickly and look fabulous. These come as body
art and can be applied on the back, arms, feet etc.
Maha shivaratri
Mahashrivratri is one of the occasions which is celebrated
throughout the county. People believe that Shivratri was the day
when Lord Shiv and Goddess Parvati tied the nuptial knot. It falls
in the month of February or March ( in the Falgun Maas as
per Hindu calendar).
The occasion is marked by observing fast among men, women
including children. By midnight, devotees perform puja and offer
fruits, flowers and bel pratra (leaves of Bel tree) on the Shiv
Linga. It is a belief that the bel patra is important to perform puja
on this day.
As a custom, the Shiva Linga is given a bath or Abhishek with
milk, curd, ghee, flowers and cow dung. Devotees throng Shiv
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temples on Shivratri, sing and dance to the tunes of the
devotional songs all through the night.
For women in the Indian society, this festival has special
meaning. Women observe fast for the well being and life of their
husbands. As per the beliefs, Goddess Parvati had fasted for
years together to impress Lord Shiv and pursued him to marry
her. Women also perform puja of Shiv and Gauri.
Traditionally, on Shivratri, the day begins early with a bath and
by sunrise a puja is done. The bath taken on the occasion is with
water boiled with black sesame seeds which cleans body
impurities. Shiv Purana is read and chanted at homes and
temples all day. The six items used in the puja have special
significance. Like water is for purity, milk for purity and
piousness, curd for prosperity and progeny, honey for a sweet
thoughts and words, ghee for victory and sugar for happiness.
Wood apple or bel leaves are used for purification of the soul,
fruits symbolize longevity and gratification of desires, incense
sticks or dhub is for wealth, the lamp or diya is the symbol of
knowledge while the bel leave shows the satisfaction with world
pleasures and desires and the chanting of Om Namah Shivay
sets people free from the sins committed by them.
The fast breaks next morning with Prasad offered to Lord Shiv.
There are many devotees who observe fast without any food and
water. It is considered as an important fast as it frees a person
from the cycle of birth and death.
There are special programmes held at the twelve Jyotirlingas
throughout the country. Special shringar (decorations) on the
Shiv Linga are done with rice, flowers, dry fruits, bel leaves.
Tandava, the dance of creation, prevention, destruction,
salvation and illusion done by Lord Shiv is performed on the
occasion. All the twelve Jyotirlingas are thronged by devotees
since morning to watch the Tandava performed by the Pujaris on
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the occasion. Another interesting part is that the shringar draws
devotees to the temples.
Naag Panchami
Naag Pachami is a Hindu festival celebrated to worship snakes.
Snakes are considered sacred in the Hindu mythology; right from
times when mankind attained a culture, they have been invoked
with prayers. The festival is celebrated on the fifth day of moonlit
fortnight in the month of Shravan; sometime in the month of July
or August.
Mythology:
There are various stories and myths associated with the festival.
Hindus believe that the thousand headed Sheesh Naag who is a
symbol of eternity is the couch of Lord Vishnu and therefore the
Naag has to be worshipped. Also it is an age old belief that
serpents are loved and blessed by Lord Shiva, they are an
inseparable part of his existence and thus serpents are
worshipped on this auspicious day.
The most popular legend is about Lord Krishna. When he was a
child playing with other village boys, he fell in the river trying to
fetch a ball. Kaliya, was an extremely dangerous serpent in the
lake but Krishna overcame it using his powers and saved the
villagers from its terror.
Another famous story is of the Snake and Farmers daughter. The
farmer and his family had been bitten by an angry snake. They
got restored to life when their eldest daughter prayed to the snake
God asking forgiveness for any wrong she or her family had done.
Celebrations:
Naag Panchami is celebrated throughout India but greater
festivities are seen in the Southern states. Also the celebrations
vary in different parts of the country.
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Hindu's believe that praying to snakes will keep them happy and
safe from snake bites. Snakes are fed with milk and fruits on this
day. People take blessings of the snakes. They worship Naga
Devatas (Cobras). Unmarried Hindu maidens believe that fasting
and performing certain rituals will help them find suitable men
for marriage.
Rituals in different states:
The village of Baltis Shirale, which is situated approximately 400
kilometers from Mumbai, conducts the most outstanding
celebrations. The largest collection of snakes in the world can be
found here. Visitors from across the world gather in the village to
worship live snakes.
In South India, people craft images of snakes using cow dung at
the entrance of their house to welcome the snake god. In Kerala,
stone or metal icons of the cosmic serpent Ananta or Sesha are
worshipped and offered milk and sweets as families pray for their
welfare and prosperity. In West Bengal and parts of Assam and
Orissa Mansa, the queen of serpents is worshipped and her
blessings are taken.
In Maharashtra, Hindu women dress up for the puja of NaagDevata. They sprinkle haldi, kumkum and flowers on the snake,
offer milk and pray. Cash and old clothes are given to the snakecharmers.
In Punjab, the festival is celebrated sometime in September
October and is called Guga Naumi. A snake made from dough is
taken around the village where flour and butter is made as an
offering from each house. Later the snake is buried.
The festival is also celebrated in Nepal but the celebrations and
belief are different from India. Ancient Nepalese civilizations
worshiped the Nagas, or Serpent Kings, and believed that their
relationship with the gods and nature would secure their
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survival.
Ganesh Chaturthi
Ganesh Chaturthi also known as 'Vinayak Chaturthi' or
'Vinayaka Chavithi' is celebrated by Hindus as the birthday of
Lord Ganesha. It is celebrated during the Hindu month of
Bhadra; the date usually falls between mid August and
September.
Although this festival is observed in all parts of the country, it is
celebrated with maximum fervour in Maharashtra. It is also
popular in Goa, Gujarat, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra
Pradesh. Outside India, it is celebrated widely in Nepal which is
the only Hindu Kingdom in the world.
Mythology:
The divine couple, Shiva and Parvati remained childless for a long
time after the birth of their first son Kartikeya. Parvati yearned
for another son and Shiva's long absence from home added to her
loneliness. One day she moulded a clay statue in the form of her
son and used her powers to instill life in it. And it did happen.
She named him Ganesha and was extremely happy to have him
with her. She would leave him in charge to take care of the house
when she would attend to other chores. One day while Parvati
was busy bathing, Ganesha was guarding the entrance of the
house. Unaware of who Shiva was Ganesha stopped him from
entering; taken aback at being stopped Shiva was enraged. In a
fit of anger Shiva chopped off his head and threw it away. On
hearing about this Parvati lost her temper and demanded Shiva
to restore her son to life immediately. To fulfill Parvatis desire he
set out to find the head, unsuccessful in his attempts he
promised to replace it with the head of the next living form that
came across. As the next living creature was a baby elephant, so
Shiva chopped off the elephant's head, fit it to the lifeless body of
Ganesha and revived him. To compensate his misdeed Lord Shiva
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bestowed upon Ganesha the powers of a God and blessed him
that henceforth no activity will begin without invoking your name
and blessings. Since then it is said no new venture is complete by
Hindus without a Ganesha puja.
Celebrations:
Clay idols of Lord Ganesha are made a month prior to the
festival. The celebrations begin with the installation of beautifully
sculpted Ganesha idols at homes and at public gatherings. Every
morning and evening prayers (Aartis) are performed and hymns
are sung. Many cultural events are organised for children and
adults which are a major attraction.
On the final day of the festival, the Ganesha idol is placed on
raised platforms with elaborately decorated outdoor. The priest
then invokes life into the idol amidst the chanting of mantras.
This ritual is called 'pranapratishhtha'. After this the
'shhodashopachara' follows. Coconut, jaggery, modakas, durva
blades and red flowers are offered. Sandal paste is applied on the
idol. Throughout the ceremony, Vedic hymns from the Rig Veda
and Ganapati Atharva Shirsha Upanishad, and Ganesha stotra
from the Narada Purana are chanted. Ladoos are distributed,
milk is offered to the idol of lord Ganesha and Ganesh puja is
performed.
For 10 days Ganesha is worshiped. On the 11th and final day,
Ganesha idols are immersed in rivers, lakes or sea, popularly
called Ganesha-Visarjan. The Visarjan symbolizes a ritual see-off
of the Lord. With the immersion of the idol the festival ends with
pleas to Ganesha to return the next year. This procession and
immersion is accompanied by drum- beats, devotional songs and
dancing.
Tilak's Contribution:
Ganesh Chaturthi was started by Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaja,
the great Maratha ruler. But the festival took a new meaning in
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the year 1893 when it was revived by Lokmanya Tilak to defy the
British who had banned public assemblies and spread the
message of freedom struggle. He popularized it as a national
festival to bridge the gap between people. He transformed it into a
large public event which served as a meeting ground for people of
all castes and communities. The festival gave the Indians a feeling
of unity and revitalized their patriotic spirit and faith.
Navratri festival
Navratri is a Hindu festival celebrated for nine days worshipping

the various forms of Durga. Nav means nine and ratri means
night, thus the name meaning nine nights in Sanskrit.
It is celebrated five times a year - Vasanta Navaratri, Ashadha
Navaratri, Sharada Navaratri and Poushya/Magha Navaratri. Of
these, Sharada and Vasanta Navaratri are most important.
Vasanta Navaratri is the festival of nine days dedicated to the
nine forms of Devi, in the spring season. Sharad Navaratri is the
most important of the Navratris and often called Maha Navratri.
It is called so since it is celebrated during Sharad, i.e. beginning
of winters, sometime in October November. The Chaitra Navratri
culminates to Ram Navami and the Sharad Navratri in Durga
Puja and Dussehra.
Celebrations:
The festival coincides with the end of the rainy season;
considered auspicious as it is associated with the sprouting of
new seeds, a sign of prosperity. Many people consider it the best
time of the year to initiate something new in their personal or
professional lives.
It is celebrated in different ways throughout the country. During
these days the nine forms of Shakti - Durga, Bhadrakali, Amba,
Annapurna, Sarvamangala, Bhairavi , Chandika or Chandi,
Lalita, Bhavani and Mookambika are worshipped. Some people
observe fasts for all the nine days. The festival ends on
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Mahanavami. On this day, Kanya Puja is performed. Nine young
girls representing the nine forms of Goddess Durga are
worshipped. Their feet are washed and a puja is performed, at the
end of which they are given food, traditionally consisting of pudi,
chana and halwa. People who do not fast for all nine days do so
on the 1st and 2nd or 1st and last or the last 2 days, since it is
believed that the fasts have to be kept in pairs.
The nine days are divided into sets of three days, each dedicated
to different Goddesses. The first three days are dedicated to
Durga, also known as Kali, the Goddess of power. On the next
three days Lakshmi, the Goddess of peace and prosperity is
worshipped. The seventh and eighth days are dedicated to
Saraswati, the Goddess of wisdom. Devotees believe that one
needs the blessings of all the three to be successful in life.
Navratri is synonymous with Dandiya Rasa and Garba, the
characteristic folk dances of Gujarat. Both men and women dress
in traditional attires. Village girls bearing garbis (pots) on their
heads go from house to house and perform dances. The garbi has
a diya burning inside which signifies knowledge and the end of
darkness. Dandiya-Rasa is performed mostly by men. They dance
in concentric circles and beat the dandiya sticks in rhythm while
performing.
Rituals across the country:
The last four days of Sharad Navratri are celebrated as Durga
Puja in West Bengal. It is the most important festival in Bengal.
Elaborately decorated clay idols of Goddess Durga depicting her
slaying the demon Mahisasura are set up in temples. The idols
are worshipped for five days and immersed in the river on the last
day.
In North India the tenth day is celebrated as Dussehra, the
festival which marks the triumph of good over evil. Ram Lilas
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portraying the story of Ramas life are performed. Huge images of
Ravana are burnt, depicting the end of evil.
In the Southern states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra
Pradesh the festival is known as Kolu, it is celebrated for ten
days. Women decorate the houses with dolls and draw rangolis.
Families gather to display traditional wooden dolls, sing songs
and depict scenes from various epics. They also exchange sweets
and gifts.
Pongal
Pongal, also known as Tamizhar Thirunal is one of the most
popular festivals of South India. This festival marks the end of
winter season and is around the time when the sun is moving
towards North. The period is referred to as Uttarayan
Punyakalam and is considered auspicious.
It is celebrated from 12th to 15th January of which Pongal day
falls on the 14th of January. It is widely celebrated in Tamil
Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. The name is derived from
the dish - Pongal which is cooked on the day and offered to the
Gods, thanking them for the harvest and their blessings.
Legends:
The festival has a few legends attached to it, signifying its
importance. The most popular one is about the first day of the
celebrations. It is believed that on this day Lord Krishna lifted the
Govardhan mountain on his little finger to save people from being
washed away by the rains. Thus the Rain God, Indra is
worshipped on this day.
Another legend associated with the festival is about the third day.
Lord Shiva sent Nandi, his bull, on earth to deliver his message
to the people - to have an oil bath everyday and eat food once a
month. But Nandi delivered the wrong message telling people to
eat everyday and have an oil bath once a month. Lord Shiva was
unhappy with the outcome, he told Nandi to remain on Earth
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and help people plough the fields, since now they would need to
grow more grains.
Celebrations:
Pongal is basically a harvest festival, the celebrations last for four
days. Each day has its own rituals and significance.
The first day is known as the Bhogi Pongal. On this day homes
are cleaned, washed and beautifully decorated. Doorways are
decorated with garlands of leaves and flowers. Indra, the Rain
God also known as Bhogi is worshipped.
The second day is called Surya Pongal or Perum Pongal. People
worship Surya, the Sun God. A bonfire is held in the evening and
old goods are thrown in the fire, it marks a new beginning. A
tradition of boiling fresh milk early morning and allowing it to
boil over the vessel is practiced on this day, it is considered to
bring prosperity.
On the third day known as Mattu Pongal, the farm animals and
cattle are worshipped. They are bathed and decorated with
garlands, kumkum is apply on their foreheads and they are
served sweet rice.
The dish Pongal also referred to as Pongal rice or sweet rice is
cooked in a new earthen pot. Turmeric and ginger are tied around
this pot. Pongal recipe is an easy yet delicious one, a concoction
of rice, milk, and jaggery are boiled in the pot on an open fire.
The first paddy that is harvested is used to prepare it. When
ready it is garnished with fried cashew nuts and raisins. First it
is offered to God, on a new banana leaf along with other
traditional delicacies such as vadai, murukku, payasam and then
eaten by other family members.
The fourth day is Thiruvalluvar day or Kaanum Pongal. People
visit family, friends and relatives; women perform pujas for their
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brothers. People leave cooked rice on banana leaves for the birds.
This day was originally meant to thank relatives and friends for
their support in the harvest.
People dress up in traditional clothes. On all the four days during
the festival, they visit temples to seek the blessings of the Gods.
They visit close friends and relatives and exchange Pongal
greetings; generally the elders in the family gift the young ones.
The festival brings happiness to the household.
Raksha bandhan, Rakhi festival in India

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

Guru Nanak Jayanti is the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev,
the first Sikh Guru and the founder of Sikhism. Guru Nanak Dev
was born on 14 April 1469 in Rai-Bhoi-di Talwandi in the present
Shekhupura District of Pakistan. Guru Nanaks birthday falls on
Kartik Poornima which is sometime in the month of November.
Guru Nanak Jayanti is celebrated by the Sikh community all over
the world and is one of the most important and sacred festivals in
the Sikh calendar. In India the celebrations are particularly
elaborate in the states of Punjab and Haryana.
Guru Nanak Jayanti Celebrations:
Birth anniversaries of Sikh Gurus are called Guru Purabs. On
the occasion of Nanak Jayanti there are Prabhat Pheris, the early
morning procession that start from the Gurdwaras, go around
localities singing 'shabads'. People of all age groups participate
enthusiastically.
The celebrations include the three-day Akhand path during
which the holy book, the Guru Granth Sahib is read
continuously, from beginning to end without a break. After the
Akhand Path the holy book is then taken out in a procession,
decorated with flowers and carried on a float. Five armed guards,
representing the Panj Pyares, head the procession carrying
Nishan Sahibs, the Sikh flag. They are followed by groups of
singers singing hymns, brass bands playing different tunes;
'Gatka' teams (martial arts) display their swordsmanship.
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Later there is Langar arranged by the volunteers at the
Gurudwaras. In the evening, the Gurdwaras are beautifully
illuminated and special kirtans are arranged. On the occasion of
Nanak Jayanti the leaders spread the message of Guru Nanak
and remind people of his teachings.
Life of Guru Nanak Dev:
Born to Mehta Kalu Chand, the village accountant and his wife
Tripta, Guru Nanak had a childhood unlike the others. At a very
young age he started talking about God. He spent time
meditating
and
doing spiritualpractices.
He
studied Hinduism and Islam, travelled all over India and few
other countries and preached true love and worship of God. He
was married to Sulakhani and had two sons Srichand and
Lakshmichand. He passed away in 1539 and was succeeded by
nine Gurus.
Teachings of Guru Nanak:
He was a great poet, philosopher and teacher. Guru Nanak has
also been called the Prophet of Punjab and Sind. He preached
goodness and the love of God. He didnt believe in discriminating
humans on the basis of religion, caste, creed or colour. He
carried the message of one-ness of mankind through his several
travels or udasis, which are said to have extended over three
decades.
The Holy Text - Shri Guru Granth Sahib:
The holy book of the Sikhs, Shri Guru Granth Sahib popularly
known as Adi Granth is of 1430 pages containing the actual
words spoken by the ten Gurus. Initially it contained the hymns
of the first five Gurus. It was collected, arranged and formed into
one volume called Guru Granth Sahib by the fifth Guru. It
contained a few selections from the hymns of Kabir and other
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contemporary Vaishnavite saints. Later the hymns of the ninth
Guru
were
incorporated
in
the
holy
Granth
by Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth and last Sikh Guru. The Sikhs
treat the Granth Sahib as their Guru. A copy of the Granth is
kept in every Gurudwara.
Lohri
Lohri is a popular festival celebrated on the 13th of January

every year. The first association with the name is Punjabi Lohri
since it is an exclusive Punjabi festival, celebrated with great
enthusiasm in the states of Punjab and Haryana. It is
traditionally associated with the harvest of the rabi crop.
Celebrated a day before Makara Sankranthi, it marks the end of
the winter season. It is essentially a festival dedicated to the Fire
and the Sun God.
It marks the movement of the sun towards the north as opposed
to the south. It is referred to as the sun becoming Uttarayan,
considered to be an extremely auspicious time. People believe
that the Lohri night the longest night of the year and from the
next day light is meant to increase.
History of Lohri :
The origin of the festival is related to Dulla Bhatti, a robber who
lived in Punjab during the reign of Emperor Akbar. Besides
robbing the rich, he rescued Hindu girls who were forcibly taken
to be sold in slave market of the Middle East. He got them
married to Hindu boys and provided them with dowries. He
gained respect of the people and became a hero. Therefore every
Lohri song has lyrics expressing gratitude to him.
Some people believe that the word Lohri comes from the word
loh, a thick iron sheet tawa used for baking chapattis while
others believe the festival has derived its name from Loi, wife of
Saint Kabir.
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Lohri Celebrations:
With the setting of the sun huge bonfires are lit and people
gather around them to celebrate the Lohri festival. Dressed in
rich colours people circle around the bonfire (parikrama), offering
prayer to the Fire God. They throw puffed rice, peanuts and
popcorn into the fire. After the prayers are offered prashad is
distributed, consisting of til, gajak, gur, peanuts and popcorn.
The celebrations are marked by traditional songs and dances.
Folk songs are sung and both men and women dance around the
fire celebrating the spirit of the festival. While the popular male
dances are the Bhangra, Jhoomer, Luddi, Julli and Dankara, the
female dances include Giddha and Kikli. A traditional dinner of
makki-di-roti and sarson-da-saag is served. Rau di kheer is
served as dessert.
In houses that recently had a marriage or childbirth, the
celebrations are at their peak. The first Lohri of the newlyweds
and new born babies are important and considered auspicious.
The festival instills a spirit of brotherhood and unity and
generates happiness.
It is an occasion for friends and relatives to meet, exchange gifts
and greetings and spend time together. Lohri cards are a special
way to express wishes on this occasion. There are special cards
for friends, family, relatives, and newlywed couples among others.
They usually depict themes like brotherhood, love, unity, peace
and prosperity. E-cards are gaining more popularity than normal
cards. The advantage they have is that they can be personalized;
available in a wide range of colours and themes with special
Lohri songs and quotes, they express the right emotions.
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Maghi is the day following Lohri. According to Hindus this is an
auspicious day to take a holy dip in the river and give away
charity. On this day sweets are prepared with sugar cane juice.
It is said A good Lohri sets the tone for the whole year ahead
the more joyous and bountiful the occasion, the greater will be
peace and prosperity
Eid ul Fitr
Eid ul-Fitr popularly called Eid is an Islamic festival. The term
'Eid' has been derived from the Arabic word oud, which means
the return implying the return of the festival each year; Fitr
means to breakfast. Celebrated after the end of the Islamic
month of Ramadan, on the first day of Shawwal, it symbolizes the
breaking of the fasting period.
Celebrations:
It is one of most important festivals for Muslims across the world.
Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations vary across countries; in South Asian
countries like India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal the
celebrations are for three days. Eid is a public holiday and the
festival is celebrated all over India.
The night before Eid is called Chand Raat meaning night of the
moon. The festival begins with the sighting of the new crescent
moon in the evening of the last day of Ramadan. People rejoice at
the sight of the moon which signifies an end to their month-long
fast and the beginning of celebrations.
People decorate their homes and buy new clothes for themselves.
Women apply mehendi (heena) on their hands and wear colourful
traditional clothes and bangles. Sweets are prepared at home.
People wake up early in the morning, after having a bath, get
dressed in their best clothes. They have a light breakfast,
generally dates, before they leave to attend the special Eid prayer
called Salah. Women are exempted from this prayer. The prayer
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is performed publicly at mosques or open areas or fields which
can accommodate large number of people.
Salah is followed by Khutbah and then dua where people ask
Allah for forgiveness. People embrace the person sitting on either
side wishing them Eid. People generally visit graveyards after
Salah to pray for the departed family members, a custom known
as Ziyarat al-qubur.
People visit their friends, relatives and acquaintances and greet
each other by saying Eid-Mubarak, they exchange wishes and
gifts. According to the tradition, exchanging gifts on the holy
festival strengthens the bond of love between people. Religious
books, CDs, clothes, dry fruits and sweets are some admired Eid
gifts. Sending Eid greeting cards to loved ones who are far off is a
great way to express your sentiments on the occasion. Eid cards
are gaining popularity since they can be given in person, sent
through courier or over the internet in the form of e-cards. They
are available in various themes for friends and family. Children
are given small sums of money (Eidi) on the day by their elders.
Significance:
Eid-ul-Fitr is a distinctive festival. It doesnt have any connections
with any historical event or changes of seasons or harvest and
agriculture like a lot of Hindu festivals. Its importance is purely
spiritual. It is the day when the Muslims thank Allah for
everything he has given them including the will to successfully
keep all fasts. It is believed that He gives infinitely to those who
are sincerely concerned with the general welfare of their fellow
believers. Eid is a day when Muslims ask Allah for forgiveness for
their sins. The festival brings happiness, spreads the message of
brotherhood, peace and prosperity.
Moharram
Muharram is the month that marks the beginning of the year
according to the Islamic calendar. It is one of four months that
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have been designated as holy and is the most important second
only to the month of Ramadan.
Fasting is advocated in this month. Though it is not mandatory it
is encouraged since there is a belief that those who fast during
these days will be greatly rewarded by Allah. Fighting is
prohibited in the four sacred months and that is where it derives
its name from, haram meaning forbidden.
The tenth day of the month is called Ashura and holds
significance because the death of Imam Husain is mourned.
History:
In this month, many centuries ago (approximately 680 A.D.) a
tragedy took place in Kerbala, Iraq on the bank of the river
Euphrates. A large army, which had been mobilised by the
Umayyad regime, besieged a group of 72 people and pressurized
them to pay allegiance to the Caliph of the time and submit to his
authority. The Caliph was a man deviated from the Islamic way of
life. They were deprived of food and water and underwent extreme
sufferings. The group resisted and a severe battle took place in
which they were all killed. The leader of the group was Imam
Husain, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad.
Celebrations:
The festival starts at the 1st day of Muharram and lasts for 10
days. It is of importance for Shia Muslims as they mourn the
death of Imam Husain and the Karbala tragedy. They wear black
clothes and keep themselves away from any kind of joy or
celebration. Majalis are held every day during the first nine days
where orators relate the incident of the martyrdom of Hazrat
Imam Hussain and his party in detail. Mainstream Shia Muslims
fast until the evening.
On the 10th day, Ashura - large processions are formed and the
devoted followers parade the streets holding banners and
carrying taziyas (bamboo and paper replicas of the martyr's
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tomb). The mourners walk barefoot to the beat of drums.
Everyone in the procession chants "Ya Hussain", with loud
shouting and weeping. Some Shia sects whip themselves to
express
grief.
During these first ten days of Muharram, drinking posts are also
set up temporarily by the Shia community where water and
juices are served free of cost.
While Shia Muslims consider Ashura to be a sorrowful occassion,
Sunni Muslims consider it as a festival and celebrate Asura
keeping the religious aspect intact. Pious Sunnis keep a fast as
per the Hadith of Prophet Muhammad. Usually they fast either
on the 9th and 10th day or on the 10th and 11th day of the
month.
On the evening of the 12th day people stay awake all night,
reading the Quran and reciting verses in honour of Husain. On
the 13th day particular food is cooked and given to the poor after
saying the fatihah over it. With this act of charity the celebrations
come to an end
Ram Navami
Ram Navami is a Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord
Rama in Ayodhya. Rama was the eldest son of King Dasharatha
and Queen Kausalya and was the 7th incarnation of Lord
Vishnu. Lord Rama is a legendary figure; he is an epitome of
truth and goodness and represents the victory of good over evil.
His birth is celebrated with great enthusiasm in all parts of the
country.
Ram Navami History and Mythology:
Lord Rama is the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu who came down
to earth to battle Ravana. Lord Brahma had received complaints
from all the gods about the havoc that Ravana was creating on
earth, but because Ravana had so many boons, he could not be
killed by a God. So Lord Vishnu descended to the earth in the
form of Prince Rama.
Page 35
King Dasharatha had three wives Kausalya, Sumitra and Kaikeyi.
Their greatest worry was that they had no children, which meant
no heir to the throne. Rishi Vasistha suggested King Dusharatha
to perform Puthra Kamesthi Yagna so that he could have
children. Maha Rishi Rishyasrunga came to Ayodhya to perform
the yagna. As a result of the yagna Yagneshwar appeared and
provided a bowl of Kheer to King Dashratha and told him to
distribute it among his wives. The queens had their share of
khaar and a few days later conceived.
On the ninth day of the last month of Vedic calendar (Chaithra
masa) Kausalya gave birth to Rama at noon. This day is
celebrated with great joy all over the country especially in the
Northern part.
Celebrations:
Ram Navami falls in the Shukla Paksha on the Navami, ninth day
of the month of Chaitra in the Hindu calendar which is sometime
in April. It marks the end of the nine-day Chaitra-Navratri
celebrations. At some places the festival lasts for complete nine
days, the period is also called Sri Rama Navaratra.
Temples are elaborately decorated and traditional prayers are
chanted. Special havans and large scale kirtans are organized.
The occasion is marked by continuous recitals, Akhand Paath,
mostly of the Ramacharitamanas.
Ram Navami Bhajans in praise of Lord Rama and his valour are
sung. Images of infant form of Sri Rama are placed on cradles
and rocked by devotees. Prashad is distributed after the puja and
aarti.
In South India, the day is also celebrated as Sitarama Kalyanam,
the wedding anniversary of Sri Rama and his wife Sita. The
wedding ceremony of the couple is celebrated with great
enthusiasm and joy.
Page 36
Ayodhya , Bhadrachalam and Rameswaram are the three
important places of celebration. Thousands of devotees visit these
places on this occasion. Shobha yatras of Rama, Sita,
Lakshmana and Hanuman, are taken out at several places.
Thousands of devotees take a dip in the sacred river Sarayu on
this day.
Christmas
A celebration the world partakes is a festival of the catholic
community. It is awhite Christmas in the colder countries as the
snow beautifully covers the trees, houses and every
establishment. This scenic site adds peace to the overall
environment
ushering
a
magnificent
Christmas.
With schools off for a fortnight and colleges for a few days,
parents take leave from their daily routine for an outing with
their family. Christmas pronounces togetherness of families and
hence, people head home from their work areas to meet their
parents, siblings and relatives. No doubt Christmas holidays are
the most sought after the year through.
A large dinner is cooked for everyone to sit and chat only after the
prayers are said jointly or by holding each others hand. Gifts are
exchanged on Christmas day and the day after. Each and every
member of the family is gifted especially the younger ones.
But way before the festival begins, people clean up their homes,
add new furnishing and put up Christmasdecorations all over the
place.
Not
forgetting
the
wreath
on
the
door.
The Christmas tree is a symbol that the festivities have begun.
Taller the tree, more the embellishments and grander the last
look. Next is to buy presents, Christmas presents have a different
charm about them as they add a glow to the receivers face. But
one has to think on gift ideas as these gifts are supposed to be
meaningful and qualitative.
Page 37
Santa Claus is the heart of the Christmas celebrations as kids
love to meet father Claus. After all he gives them gifts, lets them
sit on his lap and whisper the gift they want, take a ride with the
reindeer and mingle with the elves. Christmas balls, dances are a
few of the many dos organized to celebrate the good tidings.
People dress their best attire and move out to have a good time.
Christmas music and songs are played right through the joyous
times outside and even at home.
With all this fanfare around keeping Jesus at the centre of it all is
indeed difficult but imperative. As it is he who is pivotal to the
celebrations. The birth of our lord Jesus in a stable among cattle
is an example he sets before us to leave all our worldly belongings
and kneel before in prayer. He was wrapped in swaddling clothes
and always in danger of life, but these matters did not weigh him
down as he knew the main reason of his life was to devote himself
to prayer and set an example to his people. This humble lord was
first visited by 3 wise men who were kings from different regions.
The almighty is said to send his only son to mankind to set an

example on earth and this was and will always be rejoiced by
Catholics world over by celebrating Christmas Day.
Good Friday
A solemn day for Catholics in the entire year is the Good Friday.
It is the day their Lord Jesus is crucified and nailed to the cross
and then left to die. Paradoxically as it may sound, a day where
their god has died is termed good instead of bad. This is because
the lord is said to die for the sins of all the people on earth.
He is said to give himself up so that the sins of the people on
earth are revoked, this is the good he did for the people and
hence the term Good.
Good Friday is the third last day of the season of lent which
begins 45 days before with Ash Wednesday. This day every
Page 38
catholic is reminded that he has come empty handed into the
world and will leave empty handed. From ashes to ashes, dust to
dust is what is quoted in the bible and to implicate the same
thing, ash is crossed out on the forehead of every individual and
it is not to be wiped out.
Since this day, every catholic is urged to give time everyday to
prayer. To fast and abstain, to give up all desires and lead a
simple life for the coming 40 days. Station of the cross is to be
attended and family prayers are to be said at home every day. The
40 days culminate to Easter where the whole world celebrates the
resurrection of the Lord Jesus, where he is said to raise from the
dead.
The three main days of lent are the last three days Maundy
Thursday, Good Friday and Holy Saturday. These are the last and
final days of the lent where hours of prayers are dedicated in
church and at home. Good Friday of all is a holiday as it the day
that Jesus was nailed to the cross. The Holy Mass is not a
complete mass as the Gloria is not recited as in a regular mass.
Also the hymns are solemn and not in a joyous tone as a regular
mass.
In the liturgy the passion of the Christ is either enacted or recited
by three people. Mostly the Priest as Jesus, a lay person as
Pontius Pilate and another person as the crowd. The exact
occurrence when Jesus was going to be nailed is recited and the
event
is
retold
exactly
as
it
was
centuries
ago.
On this day, the statue of Jesus is removed from the mounted
wall and kept in the centre aisle. People then individually visit
and kiss the statue especially touching the wounds of Jesus.
People travel from world over to the Mount of Calvary where the
crucifixion had taken place. Also people travel to Churches where
there are relics of Jesus like a chip of the cross or of the cup he
raised or of any saint. Or to places where Jesus was said to visit
Page 39
or
there
had
been
miracle
at
that
place.
All solemnity ends on Easter Day and celebrations begin as Jesus

transcends from Earth to Heaven.
Gandhi Jayanti
Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, a normal Indian citizen living
his daily life was exalted when he moved out of his nest to fight a
kingdom that had made the country their domain. Born in
Gujarat, like every well doing Indian, he travelled to UK to
complete his education and become a lawyer. On completion he
travelled to South Africa to practice as a lawyer.
His enormous contribution to the freedom struggle elevated his
stance from a normal individual to a political hero. He was a
catalyst to throw out the British Raj and usher democracy in the
country. The election of a Prime Minister and the cabinet was
brought in place in a country shattered and torn by riots and
caste wars.
Living in a country that opposed the Raj, Gandhiji saw bloodshed
and war all around him. As the British had a zero tolerance
policy they slaughtered and killed Indians without batting an eye
lid. In vengeance more people would attack and even more would
lose their lives, surviving widows and fatherless children lurking
in
around
corridors
hungry
and
nowhere
to
go.
In a pathetic state of the country Gandhi struck out to protest
against the rulers, but in a different way. He used the nonviolence or ahimsa and Satyagraha method. In this way he did
not raise his hands or preach to take up the baton, instead he
recommended his people to fight but not with arms. Hence was
born the union syndrome and the Mahatma was born.
People moved out in droves shouting slogans and demanding
Page 40
their rights. Mahatma Gandhi would urge Indians to wear clothes
and use substances that are made in India, another way of his
silent protests. In worse times he has gone on a fast- where he
would not eat his food for days and sometimes even weeks
together, all to get his demands sorted. Such was the simple life
of Mahatma Gandhi. Initially this did not stir the government,
but when large number of people began to resort to the same
method then the nature of this national strike surfaced.
Hence 2nd of October is celebrated as a Gandhi Jayanti to
commemorate the profound work done by a single man to
releasing the country from the clutches of the Britishers. Gandhi
through this style of revolt won an international audience and
today is known world over for his non-violence movement. Hence
2nd October is also celebrated world over as a non-violence day
and the week is known as the non-violence week as sealed by the
WHO.
Gandhi was loved by many and was equally reciprocated with
hate. It disheartened him to see the countrys partition as lakhs
of people were being killed in the name of religion. And ultimately
it was a Hindu Nathuram Godse who assassinated him and
brought an end to the 72 year old who still remains in the mind
and hearts of the world.
Many have translated his life into books and movies. The Gandhi
Movie released in 1981 played by Ben Kinsley, resounded through
the world and received an international audience.
Independence Day India

On this day, the national anthem rung out loud throughout
the country, and the freedom fighters felt good for every drop of
blood they shed. There were many who did not see the light of
this day because they were martyred as freedom fighters. Some to
remember are Shahid Bhagat Singh, Lala Lajpat Rai, Mangal
Page 41
Pandey and Ram Prasad Bismil. Women were not far behind in
this fight, some to remember were Jhasi ki Rani Laxmibai,
Sarojini Naidu and Kasturba Gandhi.
India had a history of attackers, the princes within the country
would attack each other to increase the length and breadth of
their kingdom. It was not long before when foreigners came to
attack the shores. It began with the Dutch, then Portuguese, the
French and ultimately Britain. They came to procure raw
materials and use the country as processors to make final goods
that were exported from the country to their hometown.
But over a period of time the British gained power and ruled most
of the country to extract maximum raw materials at negligible
prices. Their divide and rule policy increased the differences
between the Hindus, Muslims and other faiths. These differences
kept increasing leading to internal violence and riots. The British
always took advantage of these situations and only aggravated it.
It was only the minds of the intelligent in the country like
Gandhi, who saw what the British were doing and tried a
turnaround situation. Also as the British ill-treated the Indians
there was a lot of animosity against them. Thus were born
freedom fighters, which were ready to give up their life for the
country.
Decades past, more freedom fighters were lost but even more
were born. With secret meetings, secret newspapers and
underground hidings these fighters would meet each other to
discuss further action.
Mahatma Gandhi with his ahimsa, non-cooperation movement
and Satyagraha made it possible for deliberations with the
British who ultimately gave up their power in 1947.
Page 42
Today Independence Day celebrations resound in every school,
where children are taught to revere their flag. The epitome of the
celebrations is in New Delhi where the Prime Minister hoists the
flag and delivers a speech from the Red Fort that is telecasted to
homes across the nation.
TV channels telecast freedom fighter movies and the national
anthem is played in every nook and corner
Republic Day India
India attained its independence on 15 August 1947, yet it did not

have a constitution. On 29 August 1947, the Drafting Committee
was appointed to draft a permanent constitution.
The Constitution of India came into effect on 26 January 1950
and therefore this day is celebrated as Republic Day every year.
It is one of the most important days in Indian History; it is a
celebration of Indias sovereignty and is one of the three national
holidays. It is a day on which every Indian heart fills up with
patriotic fervour.
Republic Day Parade & Celebrations:
Republic Day is celebrated throughout the country with great
enthusiasm and vigour. A grand parade is held in New Delhi from
Raisina Hill near the Rashtrapati Bhavan, along the Rajpath,
past India Gate and on to the historic Red Fort, to mark the
importance of this occasion.
The events of the day begin with the Prime Minister laying wreath
at the Amar Jawan Jyoti commemorating the soldiers who
sacrificed their lives for the nation. The President is accompanied
by a distinguished foreign Head of State who is the invited Chief
Guest for the occasion. The President unfurls the National Flag of
indiaand the National Anthem is played with a 21 gun salute.
Page 43
Following this a brief ceremony takes place where the President
honours soldiers from the armed forces for their exceptional
courage and awards those civilians whose acts of valour in
different situations distinguishes them from the rest. Helicopters
from the armed forces shower rose petals on the audience. Each
chopper carries a flag - the first is the Indian flag and the other
three the flags of the Army, the Navy and the Air Force. The
parade also includes displays of skilful motor-cycle rides by
Armed Forces personnel.
The march past begins immediately after the fly past. The
President, as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces takes
the salute of the marching contingents of the Army, Air Force,
Navy, Paramilitary forces, Police and the National Cadet Corps.
The Indian Military showcases its latest tanks, missiles, etc.
The military parade is followed by a cultural parade. School
children from across the country participate in it, showcasing
folk dances. India's rich cultural heritage is displayed in the form
of tableaus from various states. Each state depicts its exclusive
festivals, historical locations and art. This exhibits Indias
diversity and richness of culture.
The fly past, by the Indian Air Force marks the conclusion of the
parade.
Celebrations on a smaller scale are held in all parts of the
country - all state capitals, district headquarters, sub divisions,
talukas, panchayats, schools and other educational institutes
partake in the celebration.
The Celebration continues:
PMs Rally & Lok Tarang:
On 27th January, a Prime Minister's Rally is held by a crme of
N.C.C cadets displaying various breath-taking performances and
drill.
Page 44
The Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in association with
seven Zonal Cultural Centres organises Lok Tarang - National
Folk Dance Festival every year from 24th to 29th January. This
colourful festival provides an opportunity for people to witness
vibrant folk dances from various parts of the country.
Beating the Retreat:
Beating the Retreat ceremony is conducted on the evening of
29th January officially denoting the end of Republic Day
celebrations. The ceremony starts by the bands of the three
services marching in unison, playing popular marching tunes.
Followed by the solo performances of the drummers, they play
Abide with me, followed by the bugle call for Retreat.
The band master then marches to the President and takes
permission to take the bands away, the bands march back
playing Saare Jahan Se Achcha. At exactly 6 pm, the buglers
sound the retreat and the National Flag is lowered and the
National Anthem is sung. This brings a formal end to the
celebrations.
On this day, the patriotic zeal of the people brings the whole
nation together. It promotes the feeling of brotherhood and unity
among them.
Jamshed Navroz
The Zoroastrians celebrate Jamshed Navroz on the 21st March as
the first day of their calendar year. This Parsi New Year
commences with the Vernal Equinox - when the length of the day
equals that of the night. 'Nav' means new and 'Roz' means day
and thus Navroz means a new day.
Jamshed Navroz History:
The origin of the festival is not well established but according to
popular legend the festival dates back to over 3000 years when
Page 45
the legendary king of Persia, Jamshedji ascended the throne on
the day of 'Navroz'. It is believed that he introduced solar
calculation into the Persian calendar and also determined the
date when the Sun enters the constellation of Aries. As a custom
the king was weighed in gold and silver, and the money was
distributed
to
the
poor
on
this
day.
This festival also finds mention in Shah Nameh, the Persian
`Book of Kings' written by Firdausi. According to the book, the
festival was celebrated by the kings of Persia, Cyrus and Darius
to rejoice in the spring and dates back to the 6th century B.C.
The first time celebration of the festival in India was started
towards the end of eighteenth century when Seth Nasarvanji
Kavasji Kohyaji first celebrated it in Surat. After a couple of
decades Seth Merwanji Pandey started the celebrations in
Mumbai which was further popularized by Khurshedji Rustamji
Cama in the 20th century.
Jamshed Navroz Celebrations:
Parsis celebrate Jamshed Navroz in an elaborate manner. The
celebration commences with cleaning of the house. Auspicious
symbols like stars, butterflies, birds and fish are used for
decoration. The doors and windows are adorned with garlands of
roses and jasmine, colourful rangolis add to the beauty. People
wear new clothes along with Parsi caps on this occasion.
Ravo prepared with suji, milk and sugar and fried vermicelli
cooked in sugar are special preparations for breakfast. After
breakfast, people visit the Fire Temple or Agiary for a special
thanksgiving prayer known as 'Jashan' where they offer
sandalwood to the Holy Fire. After the ceremony is over, they
greet each other by saying, 'Sal Mubarak'.
Guests are welcomed in a special way by sprinkling rosewater
and rice on them and applying tilak. There is a custom to keep a
Page 46
copy of the Gathas, a lit lamp, an afrigan, a bowl of water
containing live fish, a shallow earthenware plate with sprouted
wheat or beans for prosperity, flowers for colour, a silver coin for
wealth, sweets and rosewater in bowls for happiness on a table.
Apart from these, the table also has seven food items beginning
with 'sh' and 's'. These are meant to symbolise creation.
Food is of great importance of this day and the menu is fixed.
Pulav is an integral part, while plain rice and moong dal is a
must. The traditional drink is falooda, prepared from milk
flavoured with rose essence.
It is one of the three main festivals celebrated by the Parsi
community. It symbolizes the spirit of friendship, happiness and
harmony and brings people closer.
Buddha Purnima
Buddha Purnima, also known as Buddha Jayanti or Vesak is the
most sacred day in the Buddhist calendar. It holds special
importance as it commemorates the three most significant events
in the life of Gautama Buddha - His birth, enlightenment and
nirvana; all three took place on the same day - full moon day of
the lunar month Vaishakha.
Also known as the Light of Asia, Gautam Buddha was among
the greatest spiritual teachers of all times. His message and
teachings have travelled far and wide, around the globe.
Gautam Buddhas Life:
According to the legend, Queen Mahamaya gave birth to Buddha
under the shade of two sal trees at Lumbini on the full moon day
of Vaishakha, on her way to Devdaha. Siddhartha was the only
son of Shuddhodana, the King of Kapilavastu and thus led a
protected life; ignorant of miseries, sorrows and sufferings.
Page 47
At the age of 29, on his visit to the city he saw - an old man, a
sick man and a dead body, for the very first time in his life; this
changed his life forever. His mind was filled with numerous
questions; to seek the answers and search for the true meaning
of life he left all royal luxuries and worldly pleasures. He went
from one religious centre to another searching in vain answers to
his questions. Finally in a forest near Gaya, he meditated for six
years, then took his seat under a Bodhi tree and decided to stay
there until he found the answers to his questions.
One Vaishakha full moon night, he attained enlightenment and
found the answers to the four truths of life - the existence of pain
and suffering, their causes, the need to overcome them and the
means of doing so. Thus, he became Siddhartha - the Buddha or
Gautam Buddha - the Enlightened One. Thereafter, he travelled
far and wide preaching; his followers consisted of scholars,
sanyasis, kings and their ministers. In 483 BC, at the age of 80
the Buddha attained nirvana; it was the same day as Buddhas
birthday and the day he attained enlightenment.
Rituals & Celebration:
On this day Buddhists wear only white clothes. Prayers and
sermons are offered in monasteries, religious halls and homes.
Daylong reading of scriptures by monks takes place in the
monasteries. People offer flowers, candles and fruits to the statue
of Buddha. The Bodhi Vriksha or the Pepal tree is beautifully lit
with lamps and decorated with garlands. People reaffirm their
faith in the five principles called Panchsheel. Stalls are set up by
them in public places to offer clean drinking water to others.
They refrain from eating meat; kheer is a special preparation on
this
day.
Bodh Gaya in Bihar and Sarnath in Uttar Pradesh are the two
main places where elaborate celebration takes place.
Celebrations in Bodh Gaya
Page 48
People from all over the world come to attend ceremonies that
take place at Bodh Gaya, the place where Gautam Buddha
attained enlightenment. The Mahabodhi Temple is decorated to
mark the special occasion. Throughout the day prayer, meets,
sermons
on
the
life
of
Gautam
Buddha,
religious
discourse, groupmeditation and
processions
take
place.
Celebrations in Sarnath
Sarnath was where Buddha delivered his first sermon. A large
fair is organised on the occasion of Buddha Purnima. Relics of
the Buddha are brought out for public display in a procession.
Devotees offer fruits, flowers and candles to the statue of Lord
Buddha
and
pay
respect
to
the
great
teacher.
Besides these two places, the festival is celebrated with great
enthusiasm in areas with large Buddhist population like Ladakh,
Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh in India.
Hemis Gompa
Hemis is around 35 km, while the Gompa is nearly 45 km to the
south of Leh. The place is well known for Hemis Gompa the
Monastery and the two-day colourful festival by the same name.
The Monastery:
Hemis Gompa also known as Chang Chub Sam Ling in the local
language or the lone place of the compassionate person is one of
the biggest and wealthiest monasteries in the region of Leh and
Ladakh. At an altitude of 12,000 feet, it is one of the highest
settlements of the world.
It is situated inside the Hemis National Park. Over 350 years old,
architecturally it is unique because of its intrinsic design
qualities.
The Monastery is extremely beautiful and grand, decorated in
Tibetan style. The Monastery boasts of a rich collection of ancient
Page 49
relics - thankas and copper gild statue of the Lord Buddha,
stupas made of gold and silver and other such objects.
The Hemis Gompa Festival:
Hemis Gompa is also a two-day festival organized from the 9th to
11th day of the 5th Tibetan month, which falls in the month of
June-July. It is one of the most important festivals in the
Buddhist calendar, organised on the birth anniversary of Guru
Padmasambhava also known also as Guru Rimpoche. He was the
founder of Tantric Buddhism and is credited with preaching the
message of spiritual harmony and prosperity among human
beings.
The prime attractions of the festival are Cham dances and
traditional music that is played using the beating of drums,
clashing of cymbals and long horns. Sacred masked dances are
performed by resident lamas of the Monastery; they are a reenactment of the magical feats of Guru Rimpoche in his services
to the cause of Buddhism in his eight different manifestations.
The monks dress up as demons and Gods portraying battles
between good and evil spirits. Lamas with red-robes and tall
tufted hats bang on drums and crash symbols as others leap to
fight off demons.
Women adorn themselves with the perak, an elaborate headdress
with woven strips of beads and turquoise, silver dangles, and
upright ears of braided yak hair. The portrait of sacred Guru
Rimpoche is put for devotees to show their respect. Each family
carries yak-butter tea, a canister of tsampa and roasted barley
flour.
There are various tales about the festival, its origin and
celebrations, the essence of all being - the battle of good with evil
and the arrival of Buddhism in Ladakh. The message of the
festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil, knowledge over
ignorance and virtue over vice.
Page 50
Hemis Gompa is one of the many things about Ladakh which
make it unique and special. The grand Monastery and colourful
festival are a treat to the eyes. Celebrated with great vigour, it is
of the largest and best Buddhist festivals, attracting people from
around the world.
Page 51

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Karwa Chauth is a fast kept by married women and girls

Navratri is a Hindu festival celebrated for nine days worshipping

Raksha bandhan, Rakhi festival in India

Guru Nanak Jayanti

Lohri is a popular festival celebrated on the 13th of January

The almighty is said to send his only son to mankind to set an

All solemnity ends on Easter Day and celebrations begin as Jesus

Independence Day India

Republic Day India

India attained its independence on 15 August 1947, yet it did not

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