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A joyous symphony of
celebrations
The colourful
mosaic of Indian festivals and fairs-as diverse as the land, is an
expression of the spirit of celebration, that is an essential part of the
country. Observed with enthusiasm and gaiety, festivals are like gems,
ornamenting the crown of Indian culture. They are round the year vibrant
interludes in the mundane routine of life.
Every season brings along
new festivals, each a true celebration of the bounties of nature. And
that’s not all! The birthdays of gods and goddess, saints and
prophets, great historical happenings and the advent of the New Year,
all find expression in colourful festivities. The same festivals, though
celebrated differently in the various parts of the country, exhibits an
eternal harmony of spirit.
Packed with fun and
excitement, festivals are occasions to clean and decorate houses, to get
together with friends and relatives and to exchange gifts. New attire,
dance, music and ritual, all add to their joyful rhythm. It is a time for
prayer, for pageantry and processions… a time to rejoice.
Republic
Day-State capitals
Commemorating
the day India became a republic (26th January), the Republic Day
is celebrated a splendid parade a
colourful affair with soldiers marching in unison, followed by folk dancers,
school children and floats from various states.
Good
Friday- Celebrated
in the month of March
Good
Friday is observed by Christians nationwide with special services in the
churches.
Baisakhi
-Celebrated in the month of April
The
Hindu New Year finds expression in this exuberant festival, celebrated
throughout
India
.
Mahavir
Jayanti-Celebrated in the month of April
The
birth anniversary of Lord Mahavira, the founder of Jainism, is observed by
the Jain community. Special prayers are offered at temples and shrines.
Ramnavami-Celebrated
in the month of April
The
anniversary of Lord Rama’s birth is celebrated as Ramnavami by the Hindus.
The epic’ Ramayana’is read for eight days preceding the festival.
Id-ul-Fitr-
Celebrated in the month of May
The
festival marks the end of ‘Ramzan’- a month when Muslims fast throughout
the day and eat only at night. Prayers, family get- to getters and feasts
are the major highlights of the celebrations.
Janmashtami-Celebrated
in the month of August
The
birth of Lord Krishna is celebrated with great fervour all over the country.
Independence
Day -Celebrated in the month of August
Commemorating
the day
India
attained freedom (15th August), Independence Day is celebrated
with flag hoisting ceremonics and cultural programmes in the state capitals.
The Prime Minister’s speech at the Red Fort in
Delhi
is the major highlight.
Dussehra
- Celebrated in the month of October
Celebrated
to mark the defeat of Ravana by Lord Rama, Dussehra symbolizes the triumph
of good over evil. The Ramlila –an enactment of the life of Lord Rama, is
held during the nine days preceding Dussehra. On the tenth day, larger than
life effigies of Ravana, his son and brother – Meghnath and Kumbhakarna,
are set alight.
Muharram-Celebrated
in the month of october
Commemorates
the martyrdom of the Prophet Mhammed’s
grandson – Imam Hussein. Tazias, glittering replicas of the
martyr’s tomb, are carried in procession through the streets. The tazias
of
Lucknow
and
Hyderabad
are noted for their splendour.
Diwali
-Celebrated in the month of October
This
festival of lights is the prettiest and the most eagerly a waited occasion
in
India
. It celebrates the return of Lord Rama, the hero of
the epic Ramayana, to Ayodhya after a fourteen year exile. The
flickering lights of the traditional clay lamps or ‘diyas’ illuminate
the houses and fireworks resound through the night. The goddess of wealth
and prosperity – Lakshmi, is worshipped on this day. Houses are white
washed and elaborate designs drawn at the thresholds to welcome the goddess.
The exchanging of gifts and sweets among friends and relatives and playing
of games of chance at night, are all an integral part of the celebrations.
Gandhi
Jayanti-Celebrated in the month of October
The
birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi – the ‘Father of the nation’ (2nd
October). The President and Prime Minister, along with other eminent
political leaders, pay homage at Raj Ghat – the Samadhi of Mahatma
Gandhi.All the offices and schools, throughout the country, remain closed on
this day.
Guru
Purab -Celebrated in the month of November
The
birth anniversary of Guru Nanak – the first guru of the Sikhs, is
celebrated with great fervour. The ‘Akhand Path’ – recitation of the
Guru Granth Sahib, is held in gurdwaras all over the country. Taking the
holy book out in procession,is also an integral part of the celebrations.
Christmas
-Celebrated in the month of December
Christmas
is celebrated in
India
with great fervour. All the major Indian cities wear a festive look. Shops
and bazaars and offer attractive bargains.
Carol
singing, get-togethers and the exchanging of gifts enhance the Christmas
spirit. Christmas parties launch off celebrations for the New Year, thus
retaining the festival mood for at least a week.
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India-Fairs & Festivals
