Upcoming Fairs and Festivals of India

Maha Shivratri 2010

2010-03-06T01:50:00.000-08:00

Festival Time: 12^th February

Celebration Venue: All over India

Highlights: Performing rituals, observing fast, bhajan & kirtan, prasad distribution.

Maha Shivratri is on 12^th February and only a few days are left to make best preparation for it. With following the Hindu tradition, devotees keep no stone unturned to observe the rituals. Cleaning houses, washing clothes and collecting stuffs for the puja starts a few days prior to the festival. On the very day, ardent devotees keep fast and offer prayer in the sacred Shiv temples . The festivity is greatly celebrated in every nook and corner of India.

Shivratri Puja Preparations

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Maha Shivratri is observed by both men and women of Hindu communities. Performing the sacred bathing rituals and observing fast are main activities on the day. Honey, milk, holy water(Ganga Jal), bilwa leaves, bilwa fruit and flowers are must-offer items. Each offering is performed with chanting mantra- “OM NAMAH SHIVA”.

According to religious Purana, offering bath to the divine Shiva-lingam should be performed after every three hours. While offering bilwa leaves, care should be taken if there is a complete stalk with three leaves and vermillion paste smeared on each one. The puja completes after performing Shiv aarti. Incense sticks and ghee-filled earthen lamps are lighten to let the festive ambiance glow and captivate devotees with holy fragrance.

Celebrating Maha Shivratri

Shivratri is highly followed by female groups. With performing rituals, married women believe to seek blessing for the long-life of their husband. Besides, unmarried lass take part in the festival so as to receive blessing for a perfect soul-mate.

A visit to West Bengal, provides the best scene of festival celebration. Girls dress themselves in beautiful 'Taat Sarees' and keep fast with full dedication. Temple areas get extended and devotees arrange platforms for religious activities such as 'Sangeet Sammelan', bhajan and kirtan. Also, tasty recipes like Laudi Ki Halwa, Kheer, Sago Saboodana, Kaju Barfi etc are prepared for the occasion. They are offered before the lord and are evenly distributed after the fasting session gets over.

Goa Carnival 2010

2010-01-17T23:32:00.001-08:00

February heralds the grand carnival festival at Goa. The streets turns out to be more lively and colorful with the preparations of festival. Though it is a Christian festival yet it is celebrated by people of religions. This event was introduced by the Portuguese who ruled Goa for than 500 years. One can have a glimpse of Konkani culture, in folk dance and music of the region.

The celebration is marked with lively procession, playing of guitars and graceful dance performances. Festive fervor fills the whole ambiance with happiness and joy. Spirit of festivity is spread all over the place just before Easter Sunday. People starts decorating Goa with shimmery items like streamers, ribbons and papers.

Carnival began with a vibrant display of colorful floats. Three days of extravaganza displays exciting events, for instance prize distribution where the best float is rewarded, colossal parades, religious services, music bands and street play on historic themes. Group of masked revelers, dressed in bright colored costumes sing and tap their feet on the tunes of musicians.

The festival becomes more exciting and remarkable by the special arrangements made by the local clubs. It organizes red and black dance, in which people takes active participation. In addition decorated chariots on the streets and dramas depicting the story of King Momo, who introduced the festival in 18^th century are held during the festival celebrations. Goa Carnival is marked with fun and frolic. People throw flour, egg, fruits, water etc on each other and at the passer's by.

By
Nisha Kaur

Bihu- The Largest Festival Of Assam

2009-12-26T04:30:00.000-08:00

Assam, the land of red river and blue hills is an ancient land. Its colorful history traces back to the time of Mahabharata when it was known as Pragjyotishpura. But, during the reign of Ahom rulers, Assam gets its present name.

This “gateway of north-east India” and political epicenter of the region has its own share of festivals. Most of its festivals are linked with the harvesting of crops as Assam is a agriculturally inclined state. The main festival of Assam is Bihu which is very popular among all the communities residing in this beautiful state.

Bihu is a blend of three different secular festivals of the state. Though they owe their origins to the ancient rites and practices, but with the gradual passage of time Bihu became one of the best marketed festival of Assam. Several urban features and Bihu folk songs and dance competitions has added more color to the festival.

Bihu is derived from the term Visuvan, which describes all the Indian festivals that falls in the month of March. Bihu is a combination of three festivals namely Bhogali Bihu (or Magh Bihu), Rongali Bihu (or Bohag Bihu) and last but not the least, Kongali Bihu (or Kati Bihu).

Rongali Bihu- Among all of them, Rongali Bihu is the most popular one which is celebrated to welcome the Assamese New Year (around 15 April) . It marks the beginning of the Hindu solar calender and observed in the entire state with utmost joy and gaiety. On the very same day, people of other parts of India celebrates festivals like Poila Baishkh(West Bengal), Baisakhi(Punjab), Vishu etc. Rongali Bihu is a festival of merriment and feasting and generally continues for a weak. On the very first day “Goru Bihu” is celebrated which is mainly dedicated to cow worship. It falls on the last day of previous year. On this day cattle are washed, smeared with turmeric powder and other pastes.

Second day of Rongali Bihu is known as Manuh Bihu. It is the new year day. On this day, young members of the family shows respect to elders by presenting them gifts like bihuwan (a gamosa), a hachoti (kerchief), a cheleng etc and seek their blessings. Children are given new clothes, and Husori singing begins on this day, and people visit their relatives, friends and savour Assamese dishes like Til pitha, Malpua, Narikolar ladu, Tel Pitha, Aam Pitha, Nimakhiya Pitha etc. Another main attraction of Rongali Bihu is the folk dance and song which are performed by the unmarried Assamese men and women. Attired in golden silk muga, they dance in the open fields on the beats of Flutes, Dhol, Taal, Pepa etc.

Bhogali Bihu- The word Bhogali comes from the the term bhog which means eating and enjoyment. It is a harvesting festival which marks the end of harvest season. Bhogali Bihu which also known as Maag Bihu, falls in mid-January. It coincides with other Indian festivals like Makar sankranti, Pongal, and Lohri. Uruka, the eve of the main festival falls on the last day of Pausa month. On this day, the younger generation more particularly young men prepares makeshift huts called Bhelaghar with the hay and the Meji. During the night, they prepare food and there is community feasting everywhere. Throughout the night people sing Bihu songs and play various kinds of games. Next morning they take bath and burn the main Meji.

While burning the Meji, people gather around it and throw Pithas (rice cakes) and betel nuts to it. They offer their prayers to the God of Fire and mark the end of the harvesting year. Thereafter they come back home carrying pieces of half burnt firewood for being thrown among fruit trees for favourable results. All the trees in the compound are tied to bamboo strips or paddy stems. Pithas which are made on this occasion are Sunga pitha, Til Pitha, Bhapot Diya Pitha, Narikolar pitha, Bhat Pitha, Tilor Laru etc. Different types of sports like Buffalo-fight, Egg-fight, Cock-fight, Nightingale-fight etc. are held throughout the day.

Kongali Bihu- Kongali Bihu or Kati Bihu is celebrated in mid-October. There is less merriment on this occasion and it is celebrated in solemnity. During this time of the year, the paddy in the fields are in the growing stage and the granaries of the farmers are almost empty. On this day, earthen lamps (saki) are lit at the foot of the household Tulsi plant, the granary, the garden and the paddy fields. To protect the maturing paddy, farmers whirl a piece of bamboo and recite chants of rowa-khowa chants and seek blessing of God, so that they can protect their crop from pests and evil eyes. On this occasion also people exchanges sweets and greetings to their friends and relatives.

By Jolly Mazumdar

New Year Party

2009-11-28T04:27:00.000-08:00

Its party time!! say good bye to previous year and welcome the coming Year. Drinks, dance and music makes the moment more delightful. New Year eve is a great time to celebrate and enjoy at night clubs, homes or any party venue you wish to choose. Party halls are glittering with colorful shiny decorative items, serving some delicious snacks and drinks. During the party everybody gets into the mood of celebrations

New Year is celebrated with great pomp and grandeur. On the eve of new year celebration, people organizes gatherings, where they invite their friends and relatives. In the fervor of celebration, everybody tap their feet on the rhythm of loud electrifying fast beats.

Children have their own way of welcoming the new year. Some small games are arranged to entertain young kids. Antakshari, Musical Chair and many other interesting games forms an important part of the celebrations.

Celebration venues decorated with sparking materials, fills the mood with joy and excitement. Discotheques are crowded, specially with youngsters, each one of them enjoying every moment of the party. Relish at delicious dinner and make up your mood with different kinds of cocktails like whiskey, vodka, taquilla, alcohol and many varieties of mocktails.

Gifts and cards make the new year more lively. People exchange gifts and cards with their loved ones and friends and greet them for upcoming bright future. They leave behind all their gloomy days and welcomes the new year with warm heart. New year signifies a renewal of life, where the spirit of celebrations reaches the zenith.

By- Nisha Kaur

Karwa Chauth-a festival for wedded bliss

2009-10-02T23:29:00.000-07:00

India is a country full of fairs and festivals. Here, in India every season or month is attached with one or more festivals. People of every community celebrates these festivals with utmost joy and enthusiasm.

Just few days back we have celebrated the ten days long Dusshera and Durga Puja festivals and now, its time for Karwa Chauth. It is going to observe on 7th October, 2009.

Karwa chauth is a festival that is mostly solemnized by the married Hindu and Sikh ladies of north-western India. This glorified festival falls in Autumn season and observe on the fourth day after the full moon in Kartik month of Hindu calender ie October or November.

Mostly married women celebrates this festival for bestowing wedded bliss. It is a celebration that invigorate the eternal love and devotion between both husband and wife. Few days before, Karva Chauth ladies purchase some new Karvas, the spherical clay pots and decorate them with beautiful designs. They keep bangles, ribbons, home-made sweets, make-up items, and small clothes like handkerchief etc inside the pot.

There are variations within regions, groups, and communities in India about rituals of starting and breaking the fast, and worshiping the moon. In Punjab, mother-in-law gives or sent sergi to her daughter-in-law during wee hours, which includes sweets, dry fruits like cashew nuts, pea nuts, pista, almonds, clothes, red bangles, bindis, red vermilion and some gold jeweleries.

After savoring food items that are included in sergi before dawn, ladies take bathe, wear new sari and adorned their palms with henna and other accessories and worship to God. They keep a whole day long fast without consuming any food or water for the longevity and welfare of their husbands.

In late afternoon, ladies gather at a common place and listen to the Karwa Chauth Katha (the legend) which is narrated to them by an elderly lady. After the moon rise, the women see its reflection in a thali of water, or through a dupatta or a sieve. Thereafter, they offer water to the moon and seek blessings from God for the safety, prosperity and long life of their husbands. After this, women breaks their fast by drinking some water from husband's hand. This mark the end of a day long fast.

Posted by Jolly Mazumdar

SARAS Mela at Dilli Haat, Pitampura

2009-09-21T02:56:00.000-07:00

With the onset of Autumn season, the countdown for several fairs and festivals started in India. People residing in various parts of our country, completely immersed themselves in festive mood. This is the time known for Navratri ( the festival of nine day long fasting) and Durga Puja. People belonging to various age group, caste and creed enjoy both these festivals with utmost joy and gaiety, forgetting all their worries.

To add more color to this festive season, Ministry of Rural Department, Government of India, for the first time has organized a fortnight long (19th September to 4 October, 2009) SARAS Mela. It is an outstanding exhibition-cum-sale fair that provides a golden opportunity to the rural artisans to showcase their skill at a marketing platform.

Inaugurated by Ms Agatha Sangma, the Union Minister of State For Rural Development, this year's(2009) venue for SARAS Mela is at Dilli Haat, Pitampura. Rural artisans, craftsmen, BPL families and Self Help Group(SHGs) from all over the country come together at Pitampura's Dilli haat to exhibit their handcrafted creations.

Sprawling across an area of 6 acres of land, Dilli haat at Pitampura is a true copy of its counterpart,Dilli Haat,opposite INA market,on Sri Aurobindu Marg, South Delhi.It is a traditional craft and food bazaar.Thanks to its internal ambiance, Dilli Haat of Pitampura serves as a perfect choice for 2009's SARAS Mela.

For the past few years, the Union Ministry of Rural Development in collaboration with the Council for Advancement of People’s Action and Rural Technology (CAPART), is organizing these SARAS Melas to provide a marketing platform to assist rural artisans in exhibiting and seling their products. This mela enable the poor and innocent artisans to get rid of the claws of middlemen, who always take away a hefty amount from their remuneration. This Mela also provides a helping hand to earn some additional money as well as wide scale direct interactions with the buyers and aid the artisians to understand the taste and preferences of the customers.

Around 195 SHGs representing 22 States and different parts of the county are participating in 2009 SARAS mela. Special attractions of this year's Mela are Metal work products from Madhya Pradesh, Sambalpur Saris from Orissa, Wood-works from Tamil Nadu, Bamboo Craft from Tripura, Madhubani paintings from Bihar, Terracotta’s from Chhattisgarh, Shawls & Carpets from Jammu & Kashmir and Kantha stitch work from West Bengal. Arrangements are also being made to set up attractive food stalls. Another major attraction of the mega event is the presentation of divergent cultural programmes of different States which will be held throughout the duration of the Mela.

Don't waste time any more and visit the red stone premise of Dilli Haat, Pitampura during this auspicious time, with all your family members.

Posted by Jolly Mazumdar

Dusshera Festival in India

2009-08-27T22:45:00.000-07:00

Dusshera is a popular Indian festival, also known as Vijaydashmi (vijay means victory and dashmi means the tenth day). Dusshera is celebrated all over the country by almost every religion, and its the special festival for the Hindus. There is a mythological story behind the celebration of the festival as it is believed that on this day Lord Rama returned from 14 years of exile after killing the demon Ravana and rescued his wife Sita.

Dussehera is the festival that actually signifies the triumph of the good will. When we will see the celebration in the country then we can find that the festival is celebrated in different ways. Like I am taking up Northern India, here huge dummies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhakarana and Meghanath is placed in the vast ground and in that fireworks and crackers are placed inside the dummies.

Similarly if we see the parts of Eastern part of India this day is celebrated as the Durga Puja. The day is celebrated as the end of Durga Puja. The ten days celebrations of Durga Puja is named as Navaratri. This eastern part of the country the day of Vijaydashmi is dedicated to the goddess of strength that is Durga which is said to be the combined manisfestation of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh and from all other gods who created Durga to kill the demon Mahishasura and freed the world from terror. On this day of Vijaydashmi the idols of goddess is created. Similarly in the Southern part of India in Tamil Nadu and Kerela Vijaydashmi has the special significance. Although the day is celebrated in different ways in the country but the motive behind every celebration in this day is the same- to spread good will and to celebrate victory over the evil.

When it is Celebrated?
Dussherra is celebrated on the 10 th day of the famous Navratri festival, celebrated for nine days, according to the Hindu calendar 'Ashvin' (September- October). The festival is dedicated to the goddess Durga and to her nine forms. The last three days of Navratri is believed to be very auspicious and holy as goddess Laxmi and goddess Saraswati is worshiped along with goddess Durga.

Religious Significance of Dusshera:

The Dusshera festival has a special significance in the country. As India is diverse country therefore, the festival is celebrated in various ways. The northern part , involves the Ram Lila along with Navratra Puja, a drama that depicts the life of Lord Rama. On the tenth day of Ram Lila huge number of crackers are burnt and the dummies of Ravana and the two brothers Kumbhakarana and Meghanath is also burnt.

The country celebrates the festival in various ways as in West Bengal the day is celebrated as Durga Puja, and is celebrated in five days across the state. Devotees wear new clothes and celebrates the day with great enthusiasm. The cultural programmes, which takes place during the festival are popularly known as Dandiya Raas and Garba Raas, and people also observe Jaagran (waking through the night).

Legends of Dussehra:
As we all know that the festival has the various types of legends connected with them. In Hindu mythology the Lord Rama has killed the demon Ravana who has abducted his wife Sita with the help of his brother Laxman and his follower Hanuman and came home after the 14 years of exile. Therefore, the victory of Lord Rama is celebrated as Vijaydashmi.

Teacher's Day on 5th September.

2009-08-26T00:17:00.000-07:00

Teacher's day is a time of commemoration and celebration for Teachers. Different countries celebrate Teacher's day on various days of the year, in India 'The Teacher's Day' is celebrated on 5th September every year. It is the birthday of teacher and second President of India - Dr. Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan. When he become the President of India, his students requested him to celebrate his birth day on 5th September. In reply Dr. Radhakrishnan said “Instead of celebrating my birthday separately, it would be my proud privilege if September 5 is observed as “Teachers Day”.

Teacher's Day is a time of honoring your favorite teachers, surprising them with gifts and crayon scribbled 'I lOVE YOU's'.

Teacher's day holds the great significance in the heart of every student. It is the opportunity for the students to express the gratitude for the hardships the teachers bear in educating a child and preparing them to face the world. A number of ancient cultures pay tribute to the teachers as the Goddess. An old saying in India ranks teacher on the 3rd position even before the God : Mata, Pitha, Guru, Daivam, that means mother, father and Teacher is God.

Teachers shape up the life of the students as the educations received from the teachers remains with the students throughout their life, that helps them in taking the right decision and chasing the right path. Teachers spend most of their lives in teaching the students so they should always be respected. Teachers need encouragement from the society to feel that their commitment and devotion to students is rewarded.

Celebrating Teachers day is the historical tradition in India. The day is not granted as the holiday in India. On this very day students go to school, dress up like their teachers and take lecturers. As the day passes the students perform the regular activities that are practiced by the teacher's every day. Sometimes the teachers also sit in the class and behave like the students, to make the students realize what they go through every day.

The day strengthens the bond between the students and the teachers. Teachers day is the opportunity for the students to convey the message that we respect and care for our teachers as much as they do. Apart from the celebrations the day promoted the healthy interactions between the students and teachers. Very often we forget to thank our teachers. So Teachers Day nice time to tell how special they are for you.

MAHA KUMBH FAIR 2010

2009-08-18T04:48:00.000-07:00

The most awaited religious fair for the Hindus, Maha Kumbh, offers a one of a kind experience. Kumbh mela takes place in four destinations of the country namely Ujjain, Allahabad, Haridwar and Nasik, owing to the mythological significance that these places hold, with Allhabad being the most sacred destination and the only one where Maha Kumbh is held.

Prayag in Allahabad witnesses a gathering of millions of devotees from all over the world during the Maha Kumbh. These also include Naga Saints, Urdhwavahurs, Parivajaks, Shirshasins, Kalpvasis etc who believe in taking severe penance to reach their ultimate goal of salvation. One can see priests performing yagyas, bathing in the Triveni waters, saints having long matted hair and skin covered with ashes, meditating for long hours on their heads.

TIME AND DURATION:

Maha Kumbh takes place once in every 12 years, the next one lined up in 2013. The festival goes on for more than a month, with Amavasya being the most important day for the holy dip into the Triveni waters.

MYTHOLOGICAL RELEVANCE:

The origin of Kumbha Mela has been linked to the formation of the Universe with Samudra Manthan. It is believed that Gods were losing their powers, as a result of a curse, which made them lethargic and rendered them incapable. It was at this time that the creator of Universe, Lord Brahma, announced that only amrit or nector stored deep within the ocean can bring back their powers. For this, the Gods decided to churn the ocean using a mountain called Meru, as a churning stick and a snake named Vasuki, as a rope.

It was a tedious task which the Gods could not accomplish alone, so they decided to take the help of demons. They played a trick on them and promised them their share of nectar if they made their contribution. The demons agreed and as a result of the exercise, they successfully excavated nectar out of the ocean.

When Gods attempted to run with the amrit, demons fought for it, which led to falling of some drops of nectar on Earth at four places, namely Allahabad, Ujjain, Nasik and Haridwar, where Kumbh fair takes place every year. Gods drank the nectar but its droplets are still considered to be present in these sacred places, one of it being the Triveni waters of Allahabad.

RITUALS:

The site where the Maha Kumbh takes place, once in fourteen years, is called the Triveni Sangam, which is the point of confluence of the three most sacred rivers of India namely Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati. The water is considered to have droplets of nectar that fell during the formation of Universe and it is a famous belief of the people that a bath in its waters can cure several diseases and can free humans from the cycle of birth and death. A scientific reason for the healing properties of the river waters in that during the time of Maha Kumbh, Triveni waters are positively charged by electromagnetic radiation of the Sun, Jupiter and Moon.

Apart from the most important ritual of the fair, the holy bath, devotees also engage themselves in singing devotional songs and participating in morning and evening artis. Feeding the priests, saints and the poor is also considered as a sacred exercise that purifies one's souls.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS:

Apart from the Kumbh and Maha Kumbh fairs that make Allahabad the holy place of attaining Moksha or Salvation, the city is dotted with some of the most important tourist attractions of Uttar Pradesh. Someshwar Temple, Hanuman Temple, Nagbasuki Temple and Patalpuri temple are the important Hindu temples located in the city. Allahabad Fort which dates back to the 16th century, is one of the best examples of Mughal forts. Anand Bhavan, with rich historical memoirs of the Nehru family and the Allahabad Museum with its archaeological jewels of the 3rd century AD can give the traveler an insight into the various layers of Indian history.

The most important dates are 14 Jan, 12 & 13 Feb, 15 Mar and 14 April 2010

Please read the important details - http://www.kumbh2010haridwar.gov.in/bathdates.htm

RAMADAN (RAMZAAN)

2009-07-03T02:45:00.000-07:00

Ramadan is a month long festival, celebrated by Muslims all over the world. It generally starts in the third week of August. The festival marks the auspicious time when the holy Muslim epic Quran, consisting of the tenets of Allah for his people, was revealed by Prophet Muhammad.

The five pillars of Islam, according to the holy Quran, ask the followers of Islam to believe in only one God Allah, to offer prayers five times a day, to fast during the month of Ramzaan called Roza, to pay annual tax called Zakat to be distributed to the poor and to go for pilgrimage to Mecca.

Being the third pillar of Islam, it is considered highly auspicious for the Muslims to pray to the Lord and observe fast during the festival of Ramzan, to show respect to Allah. It is the month when Muslims get into self introspection and resist their desires to devote themselves completely in the service of the Lord.

Celebrations of the festival include a thirty day fast broken in three parts, or Ashra. These are Rahmat or the mercy of God, Maghfirat or the forgiveness of God and Nijat which means salvation. Fasting starts with the dawn and is broken at dusk with family and friends. This meal is called Iftaar. Fasting not just includes resistance from food and water, but also need Muslims to abstain from greed, lust, gossips, backstabbing and sarcastic remarks that may hurt others. The auspicious festival requires purity of both thoughts as well as actions.

After the new moon is sighted on the thirtieth day, Eid-ul-Fitr is celebrated to mark an end to the fasting month. The festival brings all family and friends together. People wear new clothes and enjoy lavish meals, enjoying some happy moments together. The festive meal generally includes a sweet milk preparation called sevai and non vegetarian dishes like korma and kababs. Children are given money by their elders, as blessings. It is called Eidi. Charity is important on this festival and food and clothes are donated to the poor. This is known as Zakat-al-Fitr.

On this festival, the mosques are filled with crowds of people, who visit the mosque to offer their prayers to the lord, called Namaaz. They cover their heads with white caps and their heads and generally wear white pathani kurta-pyjama. Ladies wear salwar-suits and normally wear a burqa to cover their faces. Women offer their prayers at home only.

Ramadan is falling on 21st of August, 2009.

-by Shikha Priyadarshini

Teej festival in India

2009-07-03T01:40:00.001-07:00

With the advent of monsoon, the season of vibrant festivals begins in India. Teej festival is one of the most popular festival of Northern India that falls in this season of incessant rains.

With the onset of monsoon, North-Indian people especially the ladies gets ready to celebrate the colorful Teej festival. It is one of the major feativals of Hindus and mainly celebrated in the states of Rajasthan, Punjab, Uttar Pardesh and Bihar with utmost joy and gaiety.

Coming 24 and 25 July is the auspicious date for this year's Teej Festival. Every year in the month of Shravan, people celebrates this festival as the reunion of Lord Shiva and Goddess Durga, who were united after a penance of 100 years. Due to this, Teej festival is also known as the Sawan festival.

The royal state of Rajasthan is the most important destination of India where Teej festival is celebrated with utmost joy and gaiety. Both married and unmarried women celebrates this festival with great enthusiasm. Married women keeping whole day fasting for the well being and prosperity of their husbands whereas unmarried girls keep fasting to get a suitable groom.

On this occasion, ladies dressed up in their new attire, sparkling jewelry and color their hands and feet with heena. Ladies worships the decorated idol of Goddess Parvati and sings traditional Teel songs on this occasion. Colorful swings which are hung on the branches of the trees and processions of embellished elephants are the attractions of the Teej festival.

Jaipur's Teej festival is completely different from the rest of the places of Rajasthan. Here, in Jaipur idol of Goddess Parvati is taken out in a royal procession, so that the common people have a look and pay their homage to the deity. Colorful bullock carts, elephants, chariots are also part of Jaipur's Teej festival.

So, try to visit Jaipur during monsoon season, so that you can enjoy these merrymaking moments and remember them for your entire life.

By Jolly Mazumdar

Hemis Festival of Ladakh

2009-06-23T03:15:00.000-07:00

Ladakh boast a beautiful landscape and an interesting culture. It is amongst the best places in India that should be explored. The state is famous for number of reasons and Hemis Festival is one of them.

Also known as the Hemis Gompa festival, it is held in the month of June-July. Marked as the birth of Guru Padmasambhava or Guru Rimpoche, Hemis Festival in India is a two day fest observed every year.

It is the most popular festival of Ladakh and is held in Hemis Monastery in India. The Hemis festival takes on an auspicious hue every 12 years in the Tibetan Year of the Monkey, when the two-storey high 'Thankga' depicting Padmasambhava is displayed. This famous Thankga, richly embroidered with pearls and semi-precious stones, on rich brightly colored silk, is due to be displayed next in AD 2016.

Puri Rath Yatra in Orissa

2009-05-18T22:11:00.000-07:00

The city of Puri is famous for its imposing, sprawling Jagannath temple. The grandest of festivals ever, The Rath Yathra is the visit of Lord Jagannath to his garden palace for the annual summer vacation. The deities at the temple of Puri also include Lord Jagannath’s (Lord Krishna) brother Lord Balarama and sister Subhadra. The three deities head for their garden palace (garden temple, located outside the town centre called Gundicha) right at the height of Indian summer in enormously huge chariots pulled by thousands of devotees. Thousands of reverent men and women throng to see, and to pull the grand chariots from one temple to the other. The English word "Jagannaut" comes from the giant chariots of Lord Jagannath of Puri. The British were so surprised and amused by the size of the chariots; they coined a word for it!

The royal street leading from the main temple to the garden temple is very wide so as to accommodate the three chariots. It’s a vista of temples, ashrams, mansions of old aristocracy and inns. During the Rath Yathra all the buildings are decorated with bright and colorful flags, buntings and awnings. The whole of Puri throng the streets to catch a glimpse of their lord who seldom comes out of his shrine.

The siblings retreat from the buzz and bustle of the city, temple servants and the preists to their Vrindavan-like garden. They even leave behind their spouses on their way to the leafy summer abode. The temple routine in the garden temple is much more relaxed than in the main temple. Various festivities are organized as part of the deities’ vacation (Depending on the lunar cycle, the length of this festival ranges between 1 to 2 weeks). The return of the lord Jagannath is prodded by his wife, Godess Lakshmi (goddess of wealth), who travels by the night in a closed palanquin to the garden temple to entreat the lord to return. The goddess makes her journey a day before the festival concludes.

Date - 24th June 2009

Buddha Purnima

2009-04-09T23:38:00.001-07:00

Buddha Purnima or Buddha Jayanti is the birth aniversart of the Lord Buddha. It is an important festivals for Buddhist followers. The days is celeberated as commemoration of all the preaching given by the Buddhist pilgrim. On this day, Buddhist followers enroll themselves in prayers, meditation and chants. Learned Buddhists give sermon about the Life of Gautam Buddha. The purnima generally falls on the full monn of the fourth lunar month (month of Vaisakh) - ie April or May.

This day commemorates three important events of Buddha's life

- His birth in 623 BC.
- His enlightment i.e. attainment of supreme wisdom, in 588 BC.
- His attainment of Nirvana i.e. the complete extinction of his self at the age of 80.

Buddha Purnima will fall on 9th May on Tuesday in year 2009

Mahavira Jayanti

2009-03-20T03:09:00.000-07:00

It is the main Jain Festival of India. Born in 599 BC at Kshatriyakund near modern Patna in Bihar, Mahavirswami is the twenty-fourth Tirthankar.

Lord Mahavira parents, King Siddhartha, and his mother, Queen Trishla, were very religious people and werr great followers of Lord Parshwanath, the twenty-third Tirthankar. When Queen Trishla was expecting Mahavira, she had 14 beautiful dreams . When the learned scholars analysed these dreams, they said she was going to have an extraordinary child., one who will show the path to true happiness to humanity.

This festival is celebarated during the Hindu lunar month of Chaitra and it last for one day. The festival is celebarated on the thirteenth day of Chaitra(in the month of March and April), right around the time of the full moon. The religion of Jainism does not believe in God as a creator, survivor, and destroyer of the universe. Jainism explains that eight types of vargana and five bodies exist in the universe.

Mahavir Jayanti is Falling on April 07 2009

Ram Navmi Festival

2009-03-20T02:38:00.000-07:00

As the name suggest, Ram Navmi is dedicated to God Ram. It falls on the ninth day of Navmi. It is generally celebarated by Hindus. The day is celebarated as the birth of Lord Ram, who is remembered for his prosperous and righteous reign. Ram Navmi generally falls in the month of Chaitya.

The public worship starts with morning ablutions, chanting Vedic mantras dedicated to Vishnu, and offering flowers and fruit to the god. People keep a fast throughout the day, breaking it only at midnight with fruit. In some part of Northern India, especially Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Ram Navmi is a major festival

Devotees of Ram generally adopt fasts, as it is the only easy mean of gaining happiness in the material world and achieving salvation at the same time.

Ram Navmi is falling on APRIL 3,2009.

Holi - The Festival of Love

2009-02-25T22:44:00.000-08:00

The festival of Colours ! Holi is one of the major festivals of India, held in the month of Phalgun, according to Hindu Calendar. The festival generally fall in the month of March and is majorly celeberated in the Northern part of India.

Holi is an exuberant festival associated with the immortal love of Krishna and Radha. This festival is made differently in different parts of India.

History of Holi Festival

Holi is one of the oldest existing festivals of India. Its name being mentioned in Jaimini's Purvamimamsa-Sutras and Kathaka-Grhya-Sutras, redeems its importance in history.

Holi came from the legendary story of Prahalad and Hirnakashyap. Hirnakashyap was powerful king and considered himself as God. He wanted everybody to worship him because of the power he hold. Prahalad, being Hirnakashyap son, declined to do that and was great devotee of Lord Vishnu. This was unacceptable by Hirnakashyap and he asked his sister Holika to enter a blazing fire with Prahlad in her lap.

Holika was blessed that she won't get burned in fire. She took her power as an advantage and took an extreme decision. But to the irony, Holika was burned alive and Prahalad was left unscathed. Since then Holika Dahan is being celebarated a day prior to Holi.

Where All Is Holi Celebrated ?

Holi is majorly celebarated in Northern part of India. Mathura and Vrindavan are known for Barsana Holi, a unique form of rejoicing Holi which is seen only in these two cities. Travellers visit this place just to have a look and feel of the place during Holi time.

How To Celebarate Holi?

Holi is festival of colour, joy and love. On this festival, people generally forget enemity and move ahead in life with great charm and amiability. People through coloured water and powders (Gulal and Kumkum) on each other. Singing and Dancing adds joy to the holi celebration.

What You Can Do on Holi?

Make Bhang : Holi is incomplete if you don’t make Bhang on the occassion. You can create Bhang drink or hot Buttered Bhand.

Play Holi with Natural Colours/ Flowers Petals: Being natural, safeguards you from many things. Using natural colours or flower petals would avoid harmful effect of chemicals. Since the colour are being used on the body it is advisable to use natural colours and protect your loved ones from harmful effect.

Enjoy Holi with Friendstravelindia.com

Makar Sankranti

2008-12-25T01:33:00.000-08:00

A Prologue to Makar Sankranti

India is a land of festivals. Many festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm. Makar Sankranti, which is celebrated on 14^th January every year, is also one of the famous festivals of India that is celebrated with great fervor all over the country. The cultural resonance of India unites with the celebrations, devotion, happiness and zest. People from Punjab celebrate it by the name of Lohri and Maghi, people of Gujarat thank God by a riot of kites in the vast blue. The South India celebrates the festival as Pongal. Precisely, every part of country is frolicking in the festivities at the time of Makar Sankranti.

The Astrological Aspect

Makar means Capricon and Sankranti means to go from one place to another place or to change direction. It also means one's meeting with the other. So, the time when the sun changes direction from one constellation (of the zodiac) to another we call it Sankranti. In other words transition of the Sun from Sagittarius to Capricorn during the winter solstice in the northern hemisphere (Uttarayana) is known as Makar Sankranti. Hindus believe in the co-relation of cosmic events with an individual's life and values. The conventional Indian Calendar is based on lunar positions, the positions of moon, but Sankranti is a solar phenomena. And so the date of this festival is constant and does not change while other festivals do depend on the positions of moon. The other importance of this day is due to the natural change in the length and warmth of days as winters are to end form then onwards.

The Religious Aspect

The religious aspect of this day is also important. It is said that surya (sun) visits shani (saturn). This day signifies the importance of the special relationship of father and son. The son should carry forward his father's dream. Mots of the auspicious things are done at this time as it is called the day of Gods (uttranyan). Also on this day Lord Vishnu killed the demons and buried their heads under Mandar Parvat which symbolizes end of negativities and herald of a new era. Another reason behind the importance of this day is told in our great epic, Mahabharata, which says that Bhishma Pitamah, who has the boon from his father to keep himself alive as long as he wanted and so he kept himself waiting to finally leave this mortal world on this day.

The Cultural Aspect

Different states of India call the festival with different names. But the quintessence of all remain the same.

Name of the State	Term for Makar Sankranti	Celebrations
Uttar Pardesh, Bihar	Khichri	Taking a dip in the holy rivers
Bengal	Makar Sankranti	A very big Mela is held at Ganga Sagar
Tamil Nadu	Pongal	Surging of rice boiled in a pot of milk
Andhra Pradesh	Pedda Panduga	Celebrated for Four days
Maharashtra	Makar Sankranti	Exchanging of multi-colored tilguds
Gujarat	Makar Sankranti	Kite Flying Day
Punjab	Maghi	Dancing and Feasting
Tribes of Orissa	Sankrant	Beginning of New Year

People wake up early in the morning before sunrise to take bath and worship the sun God on sunrise to pray for living a dynamic, inspired and righteous life. They do tarpan for the great ancestors. Have special sessions of meditations. Ladies make laddoos of til and gur (Jaggery). Give donations to the needy and have Khichri in lunch. Parents visit their son's house and give gifts to their son and daughter in law.

Plan your Makar Sankranti in advance and soak yourself in the festivities on 14^th January.

Swati Saxena

Lohri

2008-12-04T02:39:00.000-08:00

A festival marked with extreme frolic, a festival associated with solar year, a festival to worship fire, a bonfire festival of North India – it is about Lohri one of the most celebrated festivals of India. Celebrated on 13th January every year, Lohri is the coldest day of year. People of Punjab, Haryana, Himachal and Delhi celebrate the festival with great fervor. The festival heralds the end of chilly winters in North India. Almost every Indian can be seen enjoying on the day when Earth starts moving towards the Sun marking the auspicious period of Uttarayan (North) from Dakshinayana (south). If you are a newly wed couple then your first Lohri is of great significance. Even a new born baby makes the Lohri of a family much prominent as it signifies fertility.

The celebrations of Lohri include praying to the bonfire for abundance and prosperity. People make a small image of the Lohri goddess with gobar (cattle dung), adorn it, kindle a fire beneath it and chant its praises. People could be seen gathering around the bonfire and throwing til, groundnuts, puffed rice and popcorns into the flames of the bonfire, singing and dancing till the fire dies out. They take dying embers of the fire to their homes. Ladies jovially perform Gidda, Kikli. While men could be seen doing Bhangra, jhoomer, luddi, julli and dankara. These traditional songs and dances are the legacy of Punjab's culture.

There are many folklores associated with Origin of Lohri. Among them the most common is Dulla Bhatti who is the leading character of most Lohri songs. While others maintain that the name of the festival originated from Loi, the wife of Saint Kabir. Most of the people of rural Punjab pronounce Lohri as Lohi.

Lohri is not only a cultural gala but a social observance. Being related to harvest season the festival is of immense importance in an agricultural country like India. Everybody observes the festival imparting love and affection to all. The social barriers freeze when people visit homes, distribute sweets, meet and greet each other. The past grievances are forgotten and the gap is thus bridged.

Celebrate this vibrant festival of fertility with full enthusiasm and vitality that signifies peace and harmony.

Swati Saxena

Christmas

2008-11-06T02:18:00.000-08:00

Come December and Christians start preparations for the secular cultural festival of Christmas / Christmastide observed on the 25th of December to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ – the Son of God, the Redeemer of humanity. Cities are illuminated with decorative lights, shops are opened till late nights and are packed with customers asking for decorative plastic or paper items, 'Christmas Trees' whether real or imitation Conifer trees. People embellish the trees with electric lights, and Christmas ornaments. Christmas Carols can be heard hither and tither by groups of people. Christmas Party are planned well in advance. People go to Christmas Parties either in hotels, clubs and resorts or the personal parties thrown by their friends or relatives. Feasting involves boozing, eating, singing, dancing and merry making.

A gala Celebration of Christmas is done to honor the nativity of Jesus Christ. Modern customs have incorporated gift giving, church celebrations, display of various decorations like mistletoe, nativity images, and Santa Claus. Santa Claus, The Christmas Father, is endeared by children especially, as it is believed that He brings gifts for us. According to the Christian Mythology, Santa Claus is originated from the syncretization between St. Nicholas of Myra and elements from Pagan Nordic. Santa Claus has been embodied as personification of Christmas. A long beard old man from North Pole with red cloak and bag of gifts is believed to come on a one horse open sledge through sky at Christmas. Children fancies that during night he comes and bestows the gifts on their beds.

Christmas is a time of frolic and experiencing the charisma of festivities. It is synonymous to enjoying at heart. Christmas activities also include going shopping, hanging out with friends, celebration with family members. A complete break off from the monotonous daily regime. Children are seen engrossed in decorating the Christmas trees with colors, shimmers, ribbons, streamers etc. Christmas stories found in Bible are listened to with much enjoyment.

Gourmets or no gourmets, Christmas celebrations are a treat for the tantalizing taste buds. From Thanksgiving’s turkey to Christmas’ plum pudding, holiday food is relished by all. Christmas cookies, gingerbread, eggnog, cheese log and apple cider are few other savories. These redolent delectable Christmas Foods are prepared with much passion to enjoy the feast together with everyone.

The English Speaking countries observe “Boxing Day”, the day following the Christmas Day. Dating back to 800 years there was custom initiated by the churches of opening the “Alms' Boxes' and give the money to the needy poor in the neighborhood. The tradition still continues by giving gifts to the delivery workers (Postmen) and children delivering newspapers.

What are your plans for Christmas this Year? Do anything and everything to make the festival a carnival of jubilation.

Swati Saxena

Pushkar Fair

2008-10-04T01:45:00.000-07:00

Experience one of the India's most spectacular festival, the annual Pushkar fair in Rajasthan. It is a unique festival that falls in the month of October - November and is the major attraction for the tourists from all over the world. It is the India's largest and most colorful livestock and religious festival. During the Pushkar Camel Festival, thousands of people from all over the country gather at Pushkar during the fair when approximately 50,000 camels are sold, decorated and raced.

Pushkar, the gem of Rajasthan is the also the famous Hindu pilgrimage site. It is the only place with the Brahma temple is located besides the Pushkar Lake. The place is full of natural beauty and the pilgrims from all over the world come to bathe at the Pushkar lake (which is considered sacred by the Hindus).

During the festival, the whole expanse of desert, dotted with thousand of camels and camping families looks amazing beautiful. The major highlight of the festival is the camel racing, followed by the singing and dancing in the amphitheater. Apart from that camels sporting ornamental saddles and headdresses and decorated with ribbons are sold here. Locals are dressed colorfully during the festival. Men are seen wearing crisp white dhotis and colorful turbans. While women adorn themselves with the bright color cholis, ghagra and beautiful silver jewelery.

This seven day festival at Pushkar paint the town bright with various hues of colors. Each and every day of the festival is full of fun and merriment. Apart from the camel races, its other attractions are traditional Rajasthani dances, puppetry shows, camel beauty contest and Laadoo Oonth. Tourists can explore the local markets for camel saddles, textiles, glass bangles, tie and dye, chains, nose rings, necklaces, waistbands, anklets, toe rings, hairpins and the ivory bangles worn from wrist to shoulder.

Tourists get the chance to take the Camel Safari at the Thar Desert. Above all they share the pleasure of staying in the Maharaja's places, which gives them the opportunity to discover more of the fascinating life of Rajasthan.

Bhai Dooj

2008-10-04T01:33:00.000-07:00

Bhai Dhooj is one of the major festival celebrated on the fifth day of Deepwali. It falls on the second day after Deepwali that is on 'Shukla Paksha Dwitiya' in the Hindu month of 'Kartik'. Also known as Bhaiyya Duj, it is celebrated on large scale among the Hindu families in India. The festival is observed as the symbol of love that glorifies the beloved relationship between the brothers and sisters.

Bhai Dhooj is an age old tradition and the history attached to it quite interesting. According to the legends, the Yamraj (Hindu God of Death), visited his sister Yami on this day. Yami welcomed his brother by applying the tilak on his forehead. Yamraj was so pleased that he declared that anyone who receives teeka from his sister on the day of Bhai Dhooj will not receive the fury of hell. He also said the brothers who will have food with their sisters on this day will have a long and fruitful life.

There is another popular story according to which Lord Krishna, after killing the demon Narakasur, visited his sister Subhadra on the day of Bhai Dhooj. She welcomed Lord Krishna warmly and applied tilak on his forehead. From than custom become famous and was followed by other sisters also. Today it is a big festival celebrated by Hindus all over the world. Bhai Dhooj is celebrated as Bhaiyya Duj in north India, Bhav Bij in south India, Bhai Phota in West Bengal and Bhai Tika in Nepal.

On this day sisters apply sacred tikka on their brother's forehead and pray for the long life and well being of their brothers. They perform special pooja ceremonies for their brothers and offers them gola (coconut). In return brothers present gifts to their sisters and swear to protect them whenever needed. This day is very special for the sisters, when they receive utmost attention from their brothers.

In 2008, Bhai Dhooj or the Bhaiyya Duj will be celebrated on Thursday, 30th October.

Diwali in India

2008-09-03T23:22:00.000-07:00

Diwali in 2009 is on Saturday, the 17th of October

India is the land of festivals and Diwali is one of the grandest festival celebrated in India. It is a continuous five day celebration that occurs on the fifteenth day in the Hindu month of Kartika. The word 'Diwali' is a Sanskrit word meaning 'Deepavali' - Deepa meaning light and Avali, meaning a row. The day is popularly refereed to as the 'Festival of Lights'. It represents the victory of light over the darkness. Even the countries like Gkyena, Thailand, Trinidad, Siam and Malaya celebrate this with great zeal and enthusiasm.

Diwali signifies different things to people all across the world. In northern part, Diwali celebrates the homecoming of Lord Rama to his kingdom Ayodhya after the period of fourteen years. In Gujrat, he festival honors Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity. In Nepal, it commemorates the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon king Narakaasura, while in Bengal, it is associated with the goddess Kali.

Diwali is being celebrated in India since time immemorial. It is the same day when Lord Rama returned back to hid kingdom Ayodhya after winning the fierce battle with 'King of Demons' – Ravana. Lord Rama was asked by his father Dashrath to spend fourteen years of his life in the wild forests. During their stay in the forests, Lanka King, abducted his wife Maa Sita. The festival of Diwali marks his victorious return return of Lord Rama along with Hanuman- the Vanar king who helped him in achieving success.

Diwali celebration takes place with lot of joy and oomph in almost all the regions of the country. People renovate and decorate their houses, shops and work places. Entrances are given traditional look with the with the lovely Rangoli designs to welcome the Goddess of wealth and prosperity. Diyas and candles are kept burning all through the nights.

During the evening Lakshmi Puja is performed by all the family members. People welcome her to their homes and pray for the attainment of health,knowledge, peace and wealth. They burst crackers and invite their near and dear ones to their house holds for partaking in the grand feast and celebrations. It is also marked as the beginning of new Hindu New Year. It is celebrated for the period of five days, Each day having its own significance and value. In the remote areas, cattle's are adorned and worshiped by the farmers as they are the main source of income for them. In the southern parts of the country, cows are offered special veneration as they are considered as the incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi.

Like all other festivals in India, Diwali has its share of traditional clothing. Markets are flooded with new costumes and large variety of gift items. Women are seen purchasing lot of gold and silver jewelery especially for this occasion. Diwali gifts are exchanged among the relatives and close friends.

Of all the festivals celebrated in India, Diwali is the most glamorous festival, celebrated by every one irrespective of any religion or caste.

Diwali in 2009 is on Saturday, the 17th of October

Book your tour with Delhitoagra.com

Onam in Kerala, India

2008-08-26T04:11:00.000-07:00

India is basically a agricultural country, and the majority of population depends on agriculture only. As a result most of the festivals are also related to the agricultural activities of the people. These festivals are celebrated with different names in different parts of the country. Onam is regarded as the harvest festival of South India, especially Kerala. It is one of the most important and most popular Hindu festivals.

The festival falls during the Malayali month of Chingam (Aug -Sep) and continues for the period of ten days. It is the time when people thank Goddess Earth and cattle for the wonderful harvest they have reaped. The festival marks the period of peace, happinesses and prosperity. Onam is dear particularly to farming community in the villages.

Onam is mainly celebrated to welcome King Mahabali, a legendary ruler of Kerala, who once ruled the land. According to the legends, Lord Vishnu once decided to test the charitable nature of demon Mahabali, so he descended on the earth in the form of the dwarf Brahmin, called Vamana. He went to King Mahabali palace and requested for the three feet of land to live there. The kind king agreed to offer him the land where ever he wishes. But as the Vamana began to grow, he covered the whole earth by one foot and the heaven by his other foot. Mahabali recognized the presence of the Lord and offered his head as the as the ground for the Vishnu's third step. This won the heart of Lord Vishnu who gave him the Kingdom of Pathala and the boon to visit to visit Kerala – his kingdom once in year to see his people at Onam.

Onam wishes and gifts are exchanged between family and friends and there are celebration within the family. Houses are cleaned and all the maintenance jobs are done before the festival. New clothes are brought for every member of household. Women decorate the central courtyard of their house with beautiful Rangolis, done with the rice flour and bordered with various colors. The grand feast- 'Sandhya' is held in which people thank each other for helping them in having good crops. People make visit to the temple to offer prayers to their Gods and perform traditional dances such as Thiruvathirakali and Thumbi Tullal on the occasion. The ten day Onam celebrations are meant for feasting, snake boat races, traditional dances and merriment to welcome their legendary King. The other highlights of the event are fireworks, raslilas, followed by the possessions of caparisoned elephants. Not to forget to savour at the feast are sumptuous traditional Kerala foods.

Onam 2009 is on September 2, Friday

Ganesh Chaturthi

2008-08-22T00:10:00.000-07:00

Jai Ganesha Jai Ganesha Jai Ganesha Deva
Maata Jaaki Parvati Pitaa Mahadeva
Ladoowan Ka Bhog Lage Sant Karen Sevaa
Jai Ganesh Deva
Eka Dant Dayavant Chaar Bhujadhari
Maathe Par Tilak Sohe Muse Ki Sawaari
Paan Chadhe Phool Chadhe Aur Chadhe Mevaa
Jai Ganesh Deva

This is one of the famous aartis that people sing on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi – the birth anniversary of Lord Ganesha (who is the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati). The religious festival is celebrated all over the India in the month of August/September. It is one of the most celebrated festivals for Hindus not only in India, but all over the world. Ganesh Chaturthi is about the joy, that the devotees feel for their beloved Bal Ganesha. The celebrations of Ganesh Chaturthi lasts for the period of ten to eleven days marked by the large religious gatherings, preparation of delicious sweets and arranging Ganesha pooja's in the Ganesh temples.

Although the splendour of Ganesh Chaturthi can be felt through out the country. But the temples especially in Maharashtra, Gujrat and Andhra witness an extravagant celebrations on this occasion. Hindu mythology presents the fascinating chain of events that were to unfold around the time to bal Ganesha birth. His name brings joy because Lord Ganesha himself was a manifestation of joy in every way. He is the India's most cutest most lovable God.

On this auspicious occasion temples and homes are beautifully decorated and illuminated. Although the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi falls in the month of August but the preparations for the grand festival starts a month before. Fascinating idols of Lord Ganesha in various size and forms are made. The devotion and spirituality dominates the whole atmosphere. On the festive days these idols are kept in the house holds and pandals. Then the ritual of the Pranapratishhtha Pooja is performed in order to invoke the holy presence of Lord Ganesha into the idol followed by the worship in sixteen modes to show honour known as Shhodasopachara.

For the next ten days, the Ganesha temples, house holds and huge pandals echoes the name of Lord Ganesha, and the whole atmosphere touch the heights of devotional spirits. Through the day prayers are offered and religious hymns are sung in the temples. Plenty of sweets are made. Among them the laddus are most important as they are given in offerings. The priests chant the holy mantras and perform the other religious rites. On the last day of the festival the possession ceremony of the immersion of the idol of Ganesha in the water body is performed to see off the lord followed by the prayer that may God take away all this misdeeds along with him.

Dates
3rd of September 2008

23rd of August 2009

Book your tour to India this Ganesh Chaturthi

Janamastami - August 14, 2009

2008-08-17T21:54:00.000-07:00

Janmashtami is a Hindu festival, specially observed in the honor of Lord Krishna (the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu. The day is celebrated with great fervor and devotion as it is the same day when Lord Vishnu was born to his mother Devaki in a prison cell. The festival usually falls on the eight day of the dark half of the month of Bhadraba.

Also known as Krishnastami or Gokulastami, Janamashtami is a day to rejoice, to pray to the almighty for the wellness. On the auspicious day devotees observe fast and keep vigil till midnight. Most of the people visit the nearby temples of Lord Krishna and offer prayers in large crowds. The prayers and worship starts in the evening and continues till midnight and the devotees offer fruits and specially prepared food to Bal Krishna. The festival of Janmashtami brings good luck and prosperity in every one's home.

In each and every part of the country Janmashtami is celebrated in its own way. But the celebrations of Janmashtami is somewhat different in Mathura, where Lord Krishna was born. The festival is celebrated with lot of splendour and continuous for the period of three days The first two days are celebrated in a colourful manner. On the second day of the festival the popular ceremony known as 'Dahi Handi' takes place where the matka (pot) containing curd, milk and other ingredients is broken by the youths. During the puja (prayer) the image of infant bala Krishna is bathed with Panchamrit and than decorated with new costumes and other makeup. During the midnight the aarti is performed by blowing conch and ringing of bells. As soon as the aarti is over. Prasad is distributed among devotees after the birth ceremony. Janmashtami creates an ambiance of devotion and happiness among the devotees.

As the Lord Krishna was very fond of the butter and other milk products, so his devotees make sweets that are specially made of the milk products such as Dooddhachi kheer, Pedha, Gopalkala or the Gulabjamun. Apart from that Shrikhand and Singhare Ki Poori are the other delicacies.

The main highlight of this three festival are the Jhankis or tableaus. These Jhankis portray the various scenes that are related to the Lord Krishna's childhood stories. It is the kind of melodrama where small children play the role of Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha followed by the long possession of people from various parts of the country. The raslilas include Birth of Lord Krishna in jail, Vasudev carrying Krishna in a bucket and crossing the Yamuna River, Vasudev's return to the jail, Kansa killing Yashoda's daughter and lastly the little Krishna in a cradle in Gokul. ongs and Bhajans are are sung by the people accompanied by dancing in praise of their favourite 'Krishna Lala'. Another prominent part of the Janmashtami celebrations are the Jhulans (cradles) for the bala Krishna.

INDEPENDENCE DAY - August 15

2008-08-11T20:58:00.000-07:00

Each year, on 15th of August the Indian Flag is hoisted on the broad channel of Red Fort of New Delhi. This marks the opening ceremony of India's Independence day. On 3rd June 1947, Lord Viscount Lord Mountbatten, the last British Governor General of India, announced the partitioning of the British Indian Empire into two Countries – India and Pakistan. It was after the rule of 100 years over India, that the Britishers were leaving India; that too divided into two parts. That was the biggest Irony of India – Freedom came but with a death toil which could one entire new Nation. Grieved and befeated, the nation stood on its foot at the midnight. And so came the slogan – Freedom at Midnight.

Pundit Jawaharlal Nehru was sworn as the first Prime minster of India by Lord Louis Mountbatten. With the sworing of the Prime Minister came his famous words -

At the stroke of the midnight hour, when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom. A moment comes, which comes but rarely in history, when we step out from the old to the new, when an age ends, and when the soul of a nation, long suppressed, finds utterance..... We end today a period of ill fortune, and India discovers herself again.

The then Deputy Prime Minister of India Sardar Valabh Bhai Patel Invited Lord Mountbatten to work as the Governor General of India till the entire country was united with complete formalities. And so under the leadership of Sardar Vallabh bhai Patel 565 princely states were united into 24 states and 7 union territories.

And so finally on 15th August, Lord Mountbatten gave back all the powers to Vallabhbhai thus making India a completely free Nation. And so each year on this day, the Indian Independence day is celebrated with fanfare throughout the country. Indian Flag is hoisted on each of the Government Buildings, Hospitals, Schools, Colleges and such other important organizations.

Red Fort is decorated and the Prime Minister of India gives a welcome speech on this day about the achievement of the country till date. The formal salutation is given to the Flag by the three Armies of the Country and every Indian National.

And so the by the way of celebrating Independence Day, a homage is paid to all those young men and women, children and old people who fought to bring Independence to our country.

* Indias Independence Day is a National Holiday and everything is closed on this day.

Rakshabandhan in India

2008-08-11T03:52:00.000-07:00

Come 16th August and the entire country will be celebrating Rakshabandhan or Rakhi. There is a lot of significance in the Indian Customs.

RAKHI is nothing but a simple colored thread. Numerous silken threads are woven to make a single thread which is tied on the hand of brother by his sister. This little band signifies that the brother will always stand by her sister and protect her from all the ill wills of this universe.

And like most of the stories, this festival too has a story behind it :
In the Vedic period, on a 'Shravan Poornima' day (Full Moon Day of the Hindu month of Shravan), the deities and the demons were fighting a battle against each other. Unfortunately the demons were in a stronger position as compared to the deities. The king of the deities, Lord Indra, was very much worried about the result of the battle. His wife Indrani (also known by the name Shashikala) could not see him worried and prayed to the almighty. Being religiously inclined, Indrani prepared a Talisman with her religious power and tied it around Indra's right wrist. She believed that this Talisman will safeguard Indra from the attack made by the demons. As it is said when the faith is true, the results come out as per the faith. And so did it happen, Lord Indra came out unhurt. From that day, the festival of Rakhi is celebrated throughout India with full faith.

As the time stands, many of the Kings have kept with their words for a simple thread. As the history tells even the Muslim Leaders have run to save their Hindu Sisters when time demanded. Same runs today. The only difference lies in the time. Today there are no Kings and Queens but the ideology remains the same.

Every year brothers and sisters travel covering long distance to maintain this ideology. A simple thread and a thousand thoughts. As a gratitude the brother presents the sister with a gift as she ties rakhi on his hand. The sister on the other hand, offers sweets to the brother, after putting tilak on the forehead of her brother – be it elder or younger.

Though the ceremony of Rakshabandhan is not a huge one, still it is one of the most important festivals of India.

* Each year Rakshabandhan comes two months before Deepawali (Diwali).It is celebrated all over India, especially in North Indian States like Delhi, Allahabad, Haridwar, Uttarkashi and Agra.

Book your tour to India this Rakshabandhan

Upcoming Festivals In India(2009)

2008-07-31T23:06:00.000-07:00

Independence Day ) – It is a national festival and the most important patriotic remembrance of India. India got its independence in 15th August 1947 from the British rule. The day is observed as national holiday and celebrated to commemorate the birth of world’s biggest democracy.

At that day prime minister of India hoist the flag at Red Fort and gives a speech. Recently, kite flying has become a popular event and people can be seen flying numerous kites of colors, sizes and shapes symbolizing the freedom. Schools and people hoist the national flag through out the country and put them up on the rooftops and the buildings. It is a day of celebration across India and people of all age are in a holiday mood.

Raksha Bandhan - The festival is an auspicious and emotional moment for brother and sister. In India, relationship between brother and sister is considered as divine and this particular day epitomizes the relationship in a special way. In this particular day sister tie a sacred thread of protection around their brother’s wrist. It is believed that by accepting the thread, the brother is bound to protect his sister from any harm.

Janmashthami -
Janmashtami is one of the biggest festivals of India that celebrate the birth of Lord Krishna. Major celebration occurs at midnight as Krishna is believed to have made his divine incarnation in that hour. The festival is pious for Hindus specially women, they sing, hymn chanting, and perform puja on this day. People queue in front of temples and keep fast for the whole day. One of the main events of Janmasthami is dahi handi. It is great fun to see the event. It takes generally on the second day of the festival. An earthen pot containing a mixture of milk, dry fruits, ghee is hung around 20-30 feet high in the air with the help of rope. Young people make a human pyramid by standing one on top of the other, trying to break the pot while the onlooker keep distract them by throwing water to them. Breaking of pot is followed by prize distribution.

Ganesh Chaturthi- Ganesh Chaturthi is the birth celebration of Indian pot bellied elephant god. On the festival day it was placed on raised platforms in their home or outside. Ganesh Chaturthi is especially famous in Maharashtra where most of the people revere Lord Ganesha as their main deity. The statues are installed in different corners of the streets and decorated with colorful lighting, mirror and the most common flowers. The biggest attraction is the procession during the last day of the festival when statues are carried on decorated floats to be immersed in the sea after one, three, five, seven and ten days. this processions and immersions are accompanied by drum beats, devotional songs and dance.

Onam (12th September) - Onam is one of many annual harvest festivals, which is celebrated in the state of Kerala. The most important thing is onakkodi that means new clothes that are worn in the day of Onam. Onam sadya is another important aspect of the festival that is actually a feast served on banana leaves and serves with rice and minimum of four dishes. The colorful pookkalam is a multi colored floral decoration that usually decorates on the ground in front of houses. But the main attractions for tourist’s as well local people are the famous snake boat race. Around 100 oarsmen row huge and graceful snake boats.

Durga Puja – Durga Puja is one of the biggest celebrations India, especially in West Bengal. Huge pandals with attractive designs are made in the whole state in different corners. Here also like Ganesh Chaturthi different statues are installed in different corners of the streets and decorated with lighting.

In this day people wear new clothes, jewelry and other finery to participate in the Durga Puja celebration. The main attraction is undoubtedly the magnificent pandals that are made in different themes.

Navratri(30th September to 9th October) – Navratri meaning nine nights, is the worship of nine forms of shakti, or divine energy of the goddess Durga. This festival is especially famous in north India. People buy new clothes, jewelry and other house hold items.

ID-ul – Fitr – ID ul Fitr is the biggest Muslim festival that celebrated throughout the country with much pomp and glory. It commemorates the end of fasting during Islamic holy month of Ramadan or Ramzan. Sighting of new moon is an important aspect for commencement of this festival. Like many Hindu festivals, Muslims also buy new clothes, make delicious dishes, decorate their houses and exchange sweets as a part of the gaieties.

Diwali – Perhaps the most important festival in north India, Diwali epitomize light and consider as a festival of light. it is celebrated to commemorate the return of Lord Ram and his wife Sita to Ayodhya . It is festival of light and thus the streets and home are decorated with lights. This is also celebrated as Lakshmi Puja, who is the goddess of wealth.

Christmas – Christmas is celebrated annually on 25th December to mark the birth of Jesus Christ. It is celebrated in India with much pomp and glory. Christmas trees are decorated and people exchange gifts among themselves. A lot of lightning and decoration is done on Christmas Eve.