FAIRS AND FESTIVALS IN INDIA

JANUARY _FEBRUARY

Dover Lane Music Conference, Kolkata

Held at the end of January, the Dover Lane Music Conference is one of the biggest Indian classical music events in the country. First held in the 1960s, the event began as just a small gathering of musicians and music lovers and has grown to become a huge festival that now attracts performers and audiences from all over India. A great event, one of the conference’s goals is to introduce younger audiences to the art of Indian classical music

Teesta Tea festivals,Darjeeling

Teesta Tea Tourism FestivalThe third Teesta Tea Tourism Festival got off to a colourful start with a display of Sikkim’s ethnic cultural tradition and vibrant tableaux on adventure sports. The programme showcasing the eastern Himalayan region as a ‘composite tourist destination’ began with showering of petals from a chopper. "This is a healthy sign for promotion of tourism in this part of India. After all Kanchenjungha, river Teesta and tea are common symbols of our region. Instead of wasting our limited resources in competing with each other we should work together. This is a global trend," Sikkim’s Tourism Minister K. T. Gyaltsen said while inaugurating the festival. He, however, lamented that the ‘sudden’ and ‘abrupt’ closure of the Bagdogra airport linking Sikkim and North Bengal with the rest of the country since December 16 last, has been a disappointment for them. "This has caused immense difficulties to the intending air passengers. A number of local hotels and tour operators lost business because of cancellation of flights to Bagdogra," Mr. Gyaltsen said. Terming it as a ‘red letter day’, West Bengal principal Secretary of Tourism Pranab Ray said efforts were on to include Bhutan and Arunachal Pradesh into the festival from next year. The three-week-long festival is being organised by the Governments of West Bengal, Sikkim and Darjeeling Gorka Hill Council with active participation of tour operators, hoteliers and taxi drivers’ associations in the region. The festival, to continue in different phases in the Dooars region and Darjeeling hills of West Bengal, will have water sports, food carnival, toy train ride, nature walk, film fests, visit to snctuaries as main draws.

Thaipoosam

A festival occurring in Thai (January-February), on the day of the star Poosam either on Pournami or around that time. One legend says that on a Thursday in Thai that also happened to be the day of Poosam star and pournami, Shiva and Parvati engaged in an ecstatic cosmic dance, as Brahma, Vishnu, Indra and the Devas watched. This indicates that this is a day ideal for worship of Shiva. According to another legend, as Shiva was imparting a mantra to Parvati, Subrahmanya eavesdropped on them. For that error, Parvati laid a curse on him, in line with the rule that even a son, if erring, must be punished. To be redeemed from her curse, Subrahmanya offered hard penance at Thirupparankunram. Pleased with his penance, Shiva and Parvati manifested before him and lifted the curse. The day on which Parvati’s curse on Subrahmanya was lifted was a Thai Poosam. It is thus a special day for worship of Lord Subrahmanya, taking kavadis loaded with milk pots for offering to him for eradication of ills afflicting us. Yet another legend has it that Kaveri, grieving that she had not secured the eminence acquired by Ganga through her position atop Shiva’s locks and also on Vishnu’s feet called Nupuram, sat under a peepul tree on the banks of Sara Pushkarini and offered penance to Narayana. Pleased by her penance, Narayana appeared as a baby in her lap. That day when he manifested thus was, again, a Thai Poosam. And a particularly important day for worship of Lord Vishnu after a bath in Kaveri. To this day, in several temples in South India, the utsava idol is decked out and taken to the banks of the Kaveri for special worship there.

Mamallapuram dance Festivals,Tamil Nadu

Once the ancient port of the Pallavas, Mamallapuram plays host to a vibrant festival of Dance. Exponents of Bharat Natyam, Kuchipudi, Kathak and Kathakali performed against the magnificent backdrop of the Pallava Rock Sculpture.Mamallapuram Dance Festival is organized during the months of January and February in the city of Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu.

This event witnesses performances on the Indian classical dances such as the Bharat Natyam, Kuchipudi, Kathak, Mohiniattam, Odissi and Kathakali.The prominent people from their respected fields gather for this cultural event that is also promoted by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Department as one of the major cultural attraction to these parts of India.This four week Mamallapuram Dance Festival is held at the venue of Arjuna's penance, a bass-relief sculpted on the face of two enormous adjacent rocks, in Mamallapuram. The magnificent backdrop that is provided by the Pallava Rock Sculptures provide an aesthetic touch to this cultural dance festival.The open-air stage and the dancers from far and wide come to watch the best folk dancers in India perform in front of them under the open skies in an open-air theatre style ambience. This open-air stage was created about thirteen centuries ago, the incredible monolithic rock sculptures of the Pallavas, next to the sea in this ancient city of Mamallapuram.

Makar Sankranti

Makar means Capricorn and Sankranti is transition. There is a sankranti every month when the sun passes from one sign of the zodiac to the next. There are twelve signs of the zodiac, and thus there are twelve sankranti's as well. Each of these sankranti's has its own relative importance but two of these are more important - the Mesh(Aries) Sankranti and the most important, the Makar(Capricorn) Sankranti. Transition of the Sun from Sagittarius to Capricorn, during the winter solstice in the northern hemisphere is known as Makar Sankranti. From this day begins the six-month long Uttarayana, considered very auspicious for attaining higher worlds hereafter.

Traditionally, this period is considered an auspicious time and the veteran Bhishma of Mahabharata chose to die during this period. Bhishma fell to the arrows of Arjuna. With his boon to choose the time of his death, he waited on a bed of arrows to depart from this world only during this period. It is believed that those who die in this period have no rebirth.

Legends behind Makar Sakranti

The Puranas say that on this day Sun visits the house of his son Shani, who is the swami of Makar Rashi. These father & son do not ordinarily get along nicely, but inspite of any difference between each other Lord Sun makes it a point to meet each other on this day. From Uttarayana starts the ‘day’ of Devatas, while dakshinayana is said to be the ‘night’ of devatas, so most of the auspicious things are done during this time. It was on this day when Lord Vishnu ended the ever increasing terrorism of the Asuras by finishing them off and burying their heads under the Mandar Parvat. The great savior of his ancestors, Maharaj Bhagirath, did great Tapasya to bring Gangaji River down on the earth for the redemption of 60,000 sons of Maharaj Sagar, who were burnt to ashes at the Kapil Muni Ashram, near the present day Ganga Sagar. It was on this day that Bhagirath finally did tarpan with the Ganges water for his unfortunate ancestors and thereby liberated them from the curse.

Celebrations throughout India

Makar Sankranti is celebrated throughout India as a harvest festival. It is a way of giving thanks to the elements of nature that help man. This is the period when the winter recedes, paving the way for the summer. It is the time the farmers bring home their harvest. In the coast al regions, it is a harvest festival dedicated to Indra. In North India, a ritual bath in the river is important on this day. Khichiri is eaten and given away as charity, and People also distribute rice and lentils to the poor and needy. In Maharashtra, a special dish called tilgul, or laddoos made of jaggery and Sesame seed, the chief crop of the season, is popular.In Gujrat it is celebrated as the Kite flying day.Call it Lohri, Pongal or Sankranti, the festival conveys the same message -- the bond of brotherhood and the spirit of oneness should prevail despite all odds.

Pongal

Pongal - The four day harvest festival of Tamil NaduPongal is the first festival beginning off each new year in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. As the dates for this festival are calculated by the solar calander (ie. Western), the dates of January 13-16 never change. Each day of this festival has a special significance, however, it is celebrated more grandly in the villages, while the city folk mainly celebrate on the second day only.

The first day of the festival is called Bhogi. On Bhogi all people clean out their homes from top to bottom, and collect all unwanted goods. In the evening, people will light bonfires and burn what can be burnt. In the village where I celebrated Pongal, the people lived in mud huts with thatched roves. The porches of these homes was fully covered by the thatch material, but somewhat elevated from the ground. This part of the home was taken apart and reconstructed on this day along with the front section of the walkway in front of their home (pictured to the left). Both the porch and ground in front of their home was solid mud which had dried. So, to undo this, they put in water to soften it, and dug it out and rebuilt it. After rebuilding it, they took cow dung and added water to make a paste and spread this mixture evenly over the new fixtures to coat and sanitize them. This mixture was also spread on the floor of the hut, on which we slept at night. As they don't have beds, we slept on the floor of the mud hut with a mat between our bodies and the floor. Although, the mixture had been spread on the floor, it did not at all smell fowl in any way. In addition, the family I stayed with installed a new ceiling fan for Pongal.

The second day of the festival, Surya Pongal, is the day on which the celebrations actually begins, is the first day of the Tamil month Thai. On this day, Surya, the sun God is worshipped and women will wake early on this day to create elaborate kolum on the grounds in front of their doorway or home. Kolums are created with colored rice flour placed on the ground carefully by using one's hand. The picture shown to the right shows the beginnings of this. The women in the picture took several hours to finish that kolum. All people will wear their new dresses and use the new utensils or household items which replace the ones discarded the previous day. On this day the new rice is collected and cooked in pots until they over flow. It is this overflowing which means Pongal. This overflowing of rice is a joyous occasion, and the children and adults as well will shout out 'Pongal-o Pongal!' Children will dance and make music to the tune of these words. As far as I know, the words have no real meaning but an expression of happiness that the new harvest is here and we should enjoy it! The rice is cooked and prepared as a dish called Pongal, which is rice with dhal and sugar. This Pongal variety is called venpongal, ven meaning white. Another variety is also prepared with dhal and jaggery (sweet), called chakra1pongal, chakrai meaning sweet. To accompany the venpongal, people eat brinjal (eggplant) sambar (stew), vadai, idli, and spicy accompaniments. This is one of my favorite meals!!

The third day is called Maatu Pongal, maatu meaning cattle. This day is devoted to paying homage to cattle. Cows and Bulls are decorated with paint and bells and people pray to them. In fact, in my Pongal experience, the cattle were decorated with bells on their neck, and kum kum placed on their head, and we (My friend, her family and I.) paid respect to them by bending down, like praying in temple, and touching their feet and foreheads, followed by an aarthi (showing fire to the object of praise) and offering the cattle prasadam (food offering, in this case, pongal).. In some villages in south India, there are bull fights of varying types. These are not so common as they once were, I understand.The fourth day is termed as Kaanum Pongal. On this day, people travel to see other family members. As in the family I stayed, we traveled to another village to meet her family there. On this day, the younger members of the family pay homage to the elders, and the elders thank them by giving token money (like Rs. 10 or US 25cents). Another thing many do is leave food out on banana leaves for birds to take. I don't remember having done this, but I do know many South Indian people will take the first bit of rice cooked in any given day and set it outside for the crows to take, so this is not necessarily a habit only for Pongal. Some also go to temple, as shown in the photo. The photo is taken from the top of the staircase we climbed to get in the temple.

SARKKARAI PONGAL
Ingredients :

2 litres milk
10 almonds
1 1/2 cups newly harvested rice
1/4 cup moong dal
15 cashewnuts
1 1/2 cup jaggery grated
30 kishmis
1/4 level teaspoon nutrieg powder
1/4 teaspoon saffron crushed
1 teaspoon cardamom powder
2 tablespoons ghee.

Method:

Chop almonds and cashewnuts.
Clean kishmis
Pour milk in the earthen pot called `Pongapani' and place it on fire.
When the milk starts boiling add rice and dal, after washing.
As soon as the rice and dal are cooked to softness, add jaggery and ghee.
Let cook on medium fire for some time and then put in almond and cashewnut bits, saffron nutrieg and cardamom powders.
Lastly put in the kishmis.
Bring to one or two good boils.
This SARKKARAI PONGAL is cooked in the Sun in courtyard and served directly from the pot.

Bihu

Bihu is the National Festival of Assam, one of the most beautiful states of India, known for its tea gardens, lush green forests and the mighty Brahmaputra river. The origin of the word ‘Bihu" is said to be from the Sanskrit word ‘Vishu’.

The Assamese celebrate three types of Bihu in a year - Rongaali Bihu or ‘Bohaag Bihu’, Kati Bihu or Kongaali Bihu and the last but not the least Magh Bihu or Bhogaali Bihu’. The Bihus mark three distinct phases of the farming calendar for the native crop of Assam i.e. paddy. Bohaag Bihu marks the advent of the seeding time, the Kati Bihu marks the completion of sowing of paddy and transplantation of the saplings (‘Kothia’) and finally Magh Bihu marks the culmination of the harvesting period.

‘Rongaali Bihu’, the most important Bihu of all the three, is celebrated in the month of Bohaag (middle of April), the first month of the Assamese calendar and thus marks the advent of the Assamese New Year. This Bihu is also known as Rongaali ( ‘Rong’ denoting joy in Assamese) Bihu due to the merriment that predominates the celebrations. This festival also coincides with the advent of the spring season in the state. Bihu Dance and Bihu Songs are the main features of this Bihu. Bohaag Bihu is celebrated over a period of several days. The first day of the Bihu is known as ‘Goru Bihu’ on which day the cows and bulls are given a ritual bath with ‘halodhi’, ‘maah’ with the accompanying song "Lao Kha, Bengena Kha, Bochore Bochore Badhi Ja".

The next day is the main Bihu Day on which people greet each other and pay their respect to the elders in the family by presenting with a new ‘Gamosa’ ( a traditional Assamese hand-woven cotton towel with red designs with a white background). Gamosa forms an integral part of the Bohaag Bihu celebrations as the male danseuse wears them on the head as well as on the body. The tradition of presenting a Gamosa is also practised while welcoming any guest during anytime of the year.

Another item which forms an integral part of the Bihu celebrations and is also symbolic of Assamese Culture is the Japi – a traditional Bamboo hat with colorful designs. A more simple bamboo Japi is normally worn by the farmer while cultivating in the field protecting oneself from the sun and rain.

The folk songs associated with Bohaag Bihu are known as ‘Bihu Geet’; Bihu Geet is symbolic of communication of love and romance among the village youth and the village belles. The dances are accompanied by traditional Assamese instruments like the Dhol (the Drum), Pepa, Gagana, Toka etc..

Traditionally Bihu has been celebrated with Bihu dance and Bihu Geets in the village fields and courtyards, with groups of youths going from house to house, singing Bihu songs which is known as Husori. The same practice slowly got transformed to holding community functions mainly in towns and cities where cultural functions are held; such functions are based on Bihu dance and Bihu geets which depict mainly Bihu dances and songs.

The end of the Bohaag Bihu is marked by the celebration of Bohagi Bidaai, i.e. farewell to Bohaag.

Kati Bihu is the most quiet Bihu of the three without any funfare unlike the other two. Held in the beginning of the Kati (7th month of the Assamese calendar) (middle of October), the Bihu marks silent prayer in the form of lighting of earthen lamps in the paddy fields and also near Tulasi tree for the success of the crop.

Bhogaali Bihu is celebrated in January, immediately after the traditional paddy cultivation is harvested. An overnight community function is held in temporary thatched houses (made with thatch and dry plantation leaves/ trunk) known as Bhela Ghar or Meji Ghar) specially erected for the purpose mainly in the barren paddy fields from where the crop has already been harvested. A Community feast is one of the main features of this Bihu which is held near the Bhela Ghar. People spent the night of the community feast in the Bhela Ghar and early in the morning the same is lit with fire, culminating the function. A variety of traditional Assamese sweets and cakes like the Laru, Pitha etc. are prepared on the occasion in every home. The next day is spent by visiting relatives and friends to convey and exchange the Bihu greetings; the guests, neighbours and relatives are treated with the snacks prepared for the occasion.
One important aspect of the Bihu festival is that the entire Assamese Community irrespective caste, creed and religious followings celebrate it.

Republic day

26th January 1950 is one of the most important days in Indian history as it was on this day the constitution of India came into force and India became a truly sovereign state. In this day India became a totally republican unit. The country finally realized the dream of Mahatma Gandhi and the numerous freedom fighters who, fought for and sacrificed their lives for the Independence of their country. So, the 26th of January was decreed a national holiday and has been recognized and celebrated as the Republic Day of India, ever since.

Today, the Republic Day is celebrated with much enthusiasm all over the country and especially in the capital, New Delhi where the celebrations start with the Presidential to the nation. The beginning of the occasion is always a solemn reminder of the sacrifice of the martyrs who died for the country in the freedom movement and the succeeding wars for the defense of sovereignty of their country. Then, the President comes forward to award the medals of bravery to the people from the armed forces for their exceptional courage in the field and also the civilians, who have distinguished themselves by their different acts of valour in different situations.

To mark the importance of this occasion, every year a grand parade is held in the capital, from the Rajghat, along the Vijaypath. The different regiments of the army, the Navy and the Air force march past in all their finery and official decorations even the horses of the cavalry are attractively caparisoned to suit the occasion. The crème of N.C.C cadets, selected from all over the country consider it an honour to participate in this event, as do the school children from various schools in the capital. They spend many days preparing for the event and no expense is spared to see that every detail is taken care of, from their practice for the drills, the essential props and their uniforms.

The parade is followed by a pageant of spectacular displays from the different states of the country. These moving exhibits depict scenes of activities of people in those states and the music and songs of that particular state accompany each display. Each display brings out the diversity and richness of the culture of India and the whole show lends a festive air to the occasion. The parade and the ensuing pageantry is telecast by the National Television and is watched by millions of viewers in every corner of the country.

The patriotic fervor of the people on this day brings the whole country together even in her essential diversity. Every part of the country is represented in occasion, which makes the Republic Day the most popular of all the national holidays of India.

Vasant Panchami

Vasant Panchami is a Hindu festival celebrating Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, music, and art. It is celebrated every year on the fifth day of the Indian month Magh (January-February), the first day of spring. During this festival children are taught their first words; brahmins are fed; ancestor worship (Pitri-Tarpan) is performed; the god of love, Kamadeva, is worshipped; and most educational institutions organise special prayer for Saraswati. The color yellow also plays an important role in this festival, in that people usually wear yellow garments, Saraswati is worshipped dressed in yellow, and yellow sweetmeats are consumed within the families

The Floating Folk Festival

The Floating Folk Festival was founded in 1997 by Richmond musicians that perform on in Central Virginia. In 2002, we became part of Rockitz and now work with jam bands, blues, metal, punk and many other types of music, in addition to the regular acoustic singer-songwriters. The name refers to the revolving roster of performers that "float" from venue to venue such as The Watermelon Festival, The Diamond, The Irish Festival, Easter Parade, Earth Day and many others. Rockitz was a popular rock club started in Richmond in 1984 and key people from that venture manage the current operation.

The primary goal is live performances, compilation CD releases, archiving and documenting concerts and encouraging networking among artists. Over 100 concerts have been videotaped, included sessions at the State Theatre, Landmark Theatre, The Prism Coffeehouse and many others. Two issues of Rockitz magazine were printed in 2005.

Since the first show at the now-defunct Main Street Grill in the summer of 1997, there have been over 800 shows featuring more than 300 different acts, representing folk, bluegrass, country and acoustic rock, for the most part. Highlights include members of the Holy Modal Rounders playing a set at Floating Folk Show at the Border Cafe, Floating Folk Band opening for the Pure Prairie League, New Potato Caboose, and others, and the amazing Steve Earle attending one of our shows at the Main Street Grill. The organization was featured on the cover of the "Weekender" section of the Richmond Times Dispatch in 1998.

The first CD was released in the summer of 1998 on Planetary Records and features Steve Fisher, Eileen Edmonds, Burnt Taters, Gerry Laverty, Larry Cody, Barnabus Jones, Brooke Saunders, Stephen Christoff, Harry Gore & The Measles, Claire Clifford Coppin, Texas Ed, Jackie Burton & Cahoots, Pam McCarthy, and William Perritt & Soy Hero.The second CD contained many of the above artists, plus Van Driver, Matthew Costello, Regan, Kate Lawton, and various others. A third CD was released in fall 2002 featuring many of the original musicians, this time adding Julie Goldman, Kristin, and Heather.

The Floating Folk Festival is a true musical co-op: the participants share in the performing, technical, and organizational duties, and all funds are devoted to the CDs, and other purposes. If you are having an event or party, the Floating Folk Festival/Rockitz is available in many formats. We can provide solo artists or full bands playing original music, in addition to fun covers from the Beatles and Chuck Berry.

Nagaur Fair

Also called as the Cattle Fair, is the 2nd largest animal fair of India. Thousands of animals are gathered at the cattle fair for trading. Traders come to buy and sell cows, bullocks (Nagauri breed is renowned), oxen and camels.

Activities

Various games are organized during this four day festival. Tug-of-war, camel races, cock fights etc. provide entertainment to the tourists and visitors. As the sun goes down, a joyous atmosphere is created by the folk music and dance, whose voices echo far and wide across the tranquil desert sand.

History

It was bestowed upon Balban as his jagir in 1242. Sher Shah captured Nagaur in 1542 A.D. Nagaur was a sarkar of Ajmer subah during Sur empire and later in Mughal empire. Emperor Akbar built the mosque here, and there is a shrine of the disciple of Mu'inuddin Chishti of Ajmer.Badal Mahal, Sheesh Mahal & Hadi Rani Mahal are worth seeing. All three have exquisite 18th century frescos on the ceilings. There is also fascinating medieval air cooling system and an ornate old hammam, or bath.

Camel Festival

The Camel Festival is an event organized in Bikaner by the Department of Tourism, Art and Culture, Government of Rajasthan, every year in the month of January. Desert region's Folk dances and Music, add on to what is otherwise an exclusive camel affair. A festival when the ships of the desert are seen at their best. Camels fascinate tourists from all over the world with their movements, charm and grace. A spectacle of unusual camel performances: camel races, camel dances, and the bumpy, neck shaking camel rides.ActivitiesThe festival starts with the procession of beautifully decorated camels. The procession heads towards the open sand grounds. Here, the festivities begin in earnest. The Camel Pageant is held on the first day wherein the camel owners show off their Camels' decorations and jewellery. Camel dance performances are also held. A competition for best decorated camel, fur cutting design, camel milking and the best camel hair cut is organized The camels display amazing footwork, dancing gracefully to the slightest direction of their drivers. Colourful bridles, bejewelled necks, jingling anklets and long, lanky camel shadows on dusky sands, cast a magical spell.In this festival tea and sweets prepared by camel milk are made available to the visitors interested in enjoying them.On the second day, the fleetest camels of the region take part in the camel races. The competition is fierce as the best camels vie for the honors. Thousands of excited tourists and locals cheer the favorites. On both days, the evening ends with a rendezvous with the renowned folk artists of Rajasthan. The jubilant, skirt swirling dances, the awe inspiring fire dances and many other equally interesting performances entertain the visitors. The grand finale is a magnificent display of fireworks which illuminates the desert city of Bikaner. History Situated in the heart of the desert belt, Bikaner was always an inaccessible land. Before the advent of modern motor vehicles, the survival of the people of this region depended on the 'Ship of the desert' - the Camel. The camels of this region were famous for their endurance as well as their strength and beauty. In fact, the Bikaner army had an elite camel corps called the Ganga Risala which took active part in both the World Wars. The Ganga Risala was a Camel unit in the army even after the independence and it took part in Indo-Pak wars. Bikaner also boasts of the only Camel breeding center in India. Camel can still be seen pulling heavy loads on carts in this region. With such a long association with Camels, it is but natural that the Department of Tourism, Art and Culture chose to hold the Camel festival in Bikaner.

Gramam(Village Fair)

An entire Kerala village is recreated on the beach during this ten day long festival. The traditional nalukettu (the quadrangular upper class house with a central open courtyard) and its premises become the venue of the fair, where the culture, arts and crafts of Kerala come alive.
Festival highlights Arts and crafts fair, Kathakali, Thiruvathirakali, Mohiniattam, Oppana, Kalaripayattu, Sarpapattu, Theyyam, Kummattikali, Panchavadyam, Chakyarkoothu, Ottanthullal.

The Great Elephant

The Great Elephant March is a major tourist attraction that brings in visitors from all over. It is a four day program organized by the Department of tourism, Kerala.

Elephant pageantry, boat races and folk art performances are specially arranged in a four-day period for the tourists to have a glimpse of the Kerala culture.

On the fourth day, the Elephant pageantry is held at Trivandrum. Here tourists will have an occasion to witness Kerala's folk art forms and its ancient martial art display, Kalaripayattu. The grand finale is at Kovalam Beach. It concludes with the seaside barbecue.

FEBRUARY – MARCH

GOA CARNIVAL

Among the many and various colorful feasts and festivals that are celebrated in Goa, the Goa Carnaval is the most eagerly awaited event.The 'Carnaval’ is exclusive and unique to Goa, and was introduced by the Portuguese who ruled over Goa for over five hundred years.Although, the three-day festival is primarily celebrated by Christians, it has also absorbed Hindu tradition revelry, western dance forms, and turned into a pageantry of sorts. Though it started as a celebration enjoyed only by the local population, it has today crossed the state frontiers and attracts thousands of people from all over the country.The carnival is held in February for three days and nights, when the legendary king Momo takes over the state and the streets come alive with music and color. Then begins the weeklong event, which is a time of unbridled festivity and merry-making, which has been celebrated since the 18th Century. The carnival is meant to be a feasting-drinking-merrymaking orgy just before the austere 40 days of Lent. Huge parades are organized throughout the state with bands, dances and floats out all night on the streets, and grand balls held in the evenings. The crnival concludes with the famous red-and-black dance held by the Clube National in Panajim on the final day. The origins and nature of the carnival can be traced to the hedonistic feasts of ancient Rome and Greece. These carivals started in the Spanish and Portugese colonies, and gradually became known for their singing, dancing and drinking. The carnival is presided over by King Momo, who on the opening day orders his subjects to party. Hotel bookings must be done in advance for carnival as the festival attracts thousands of tourists.

The word Carnival (Carnaval in Portuguese) is derived from a Latin word meaning ‘to take away meat’ and is an expression of the 40-day period of fasting of Lent, during which abstinence from meat is a rule. The carnival is not celebrated anywhere else in India and was in decline even in Goa in the last few years of Portuguese rule. Its revival with the Liberation of Goa, and a boost to its tourism was therefore welcome. From being almost on the brink of decline, this three day festival of gay abandon and riotous revelry now attracts thousands of tourists to Goa from all over India every year!

ELEPHANTA FESTIVAL, ELEPHANTA ISLAND, MUMBAI

This festival is held across the Mumbai harbour, on the Elephanta Island, near the world-renowned Elephanta Caves (A World Heritage Site). This feast of music and dance, celebrated under the stars, transforms the entire island into a large auditorium.Elephanta, a small island 10kms away from the Mumbai harbour, is a favoured destination for culture lovers during the festival held in February. The Elephanta Island is known for its great cave shrine, excavated in the 6th century.

Elephanta caves, earlier known as Gharapuri, are the tranquil abode of Lord Shiva. This land was renamed, Elephanta by the Portuguese, after the majestic carved elephant on this island.The temple here has large pillars and nine marvelous sculptured panels, set on the wall, which are awe-inspiring. The sculptures display the changing moods of Lord Shiva, with the magical interplay of light and shade intensifying the overall effect.

The festival of Music and Dance is organised by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC). The main highlights of the festival are the illuminated Maheshmurti (Shiva-idol), in the main cave of the island. Folk dances by the local fisher folk, ethnic local food varieties add to the ambiance. Over the years, the festival has become a major tourist attraction for Mumbaites and for incoming domestic and foreign tourists.

Maha Shivaratri

Falls in February-March. And is regarded as the best Shiva vrata. A legend in Annamalai Puranam (that is cited also for Thirukkarthikai) says about this festival that, in an argument as to who of them was greater, Brahma and Vishnu decided that it would be the one who saw the crown or feet of Lord Shiva; that Vishnu then went to search for Shiva’s feet, and Brahma for Shiva’s crown; that Vishnu failed in his quest and admitted defeat, while Brahma claimed, falsely, to have seen Shiva’s crown and produced as evidence the cactus flower thazhampoo; and that, as a consequence, Shiva appeared in the form of a flame and laid down that there would be no temple worship for Brahma while in all places with a Shiva temple there would be one for Vishnu, too. Shiva thus manifested as a flame on krishna paksha chaturthi in Masi month. This is Shivaratri. The true import of this legend in Annamalai Puranam is to be found in the dvaita-advaita principles. Brahma is advaitam, involving what is called nirguna upasana, where there is no place for idol worship. Shaiva siddhanta and vaishnava siddhantha lay stress on saguna upasana and idol worship. It is hence that there are Shiva-Vishnu temples under the dvaita and visishtadvaita systems, while there is none for Brahma under advaita. This is how we need to interpret this legend and not that one deity is greater than another. Another ancient text says that Parvati once playfully covered Shiva’s eyes with her palms, causing the world to be plunged in darkness. In remorse over the woe caused to humanity by her action, Parvati offered worship to Shiva through that night. And she prayed that anyone doing Shiva puja during all four yamas of that night should be given every boon. Shiva acceded her request, naming the night Shivaratri. Shivaratri is of five kinds: nitya Shivaratri, paksha Shivaratri, masa Shivaratri, yoga Shivaratri, and Maha Shivaratri. Nitya Shivaratri is on chaturdasi, fourteenth day, after each amavasya (new moon) and pournami (full moon). There are 24 Nitya Shivaratri in a year. Paksha Shivaratri is Shiva worship for 13 days from the day after pournami in Thai. Masa Shivaratri is on krishna paksha chaturdasi each month. Yoga Shivaratri occurs each month on the Monday that is chaturdasi from sunrise to 10 in the morning or is an amavasya for twentyfour hours from sunrise. Maha Shivratri is at midnight on chaturdasi, fourteenth day, in krishna paksha in the month Masi. The auspicious time is between midnight and one in the morning when the Lord manifested before Parvati in the form of Shivalinga. According to agamas, the Shivaratri where the day is trayodasi and the night chaturdasi is the most exalted; it is of the middle kind if it is not even to a little extent trayodasi; and least exalted when the day is tinged with amavasya.

Surajkund Krafts Mela,OutsKirts of Delhi

THE FAIR

As spring glides in, full of warmth and vibrancy leaving the gray winter behind, Surajkund adorns itself with colorful traditional crafts of India. Craftsmen from all over the country assemble at Surajkund during the first fortnight of February to participate in the annual celebration known as the Surajkund Crafts Mela. This Mela (fair) is a meeting ground for talented artists, painters, weavers, sculptors and craftsmen form all over India who exhibit their creations for the arts and crafts lovers who come from the world over to admire and acquire these creations.

Surajkund (literally, 'Lake of the Sun') is a dusty little town in Haryana, on the outskirts of Delhi. For two weeks every year, on February 1-15, it gets transformed into a sprawling and comprehensive craftsmen's village. The Surajkund Mela is not just the biggest artisans' fair in the country; it is also unique in that every year there is a different theme to the fair. So, nobody can say, "I've been to it," and ignore this celebration of the essence of Indian culture and traditional crafts.

HISTORY

Surajkund is a historic site, eight km from the southern border of Delhi. The Sun temple stood here during AD 1000, the remains of which can still be seen here. The temple and the enchanting surroundings of this place won the heart of a Tomar chieftain Surajpal, who belonged to a clan of sun worshippers. Raja Surajpal had a sun pool and amphitheatre built in this area with the sun temple at its periphery. After the chieftain Surajpal, who built the complex, the place was named Surajkund. It was around this temple and sun pool that a resort property came up in Surajkund. What began as simple tourist center in 1987 flowered into a center of pilgrimage and a haloed piece of land that celebrates centuries old crafts and traditions of our colorful country at the annual Surajkund Crafts Mela.

THE SPECIAL ATTRACTIONS

This delightful handloom and handicrafts fair is held annually at Surajkund. Skilled Artisans from all over the country display the rich crafts tradition of India in the typical setting of a rural Indian marketplace. Cultural programmes and rural cuisine are also a part of this colorful fair.The theme that changes every year, works on two levels. First, it has a state theme, which dictates the look of the entrance, the fair grounds, and the setting. One can get the specific ambience of the particular state-the characteristic colors, materials, architecture, furniture and decorations. The other is less cosmetic and more purposeful-each year highlights one craft, and about half the stalls are dedicated to that craft. And there are a total of about 400 stalls.So, if the theme is pottery/terracotta, it has stalls that display the various kinds of pottery and clay craft available in the country. The stalls also function as workshops, where artisans from all over the country make their wares: pots, vases, urns, molded images, trinkets.Apart from this, there are stalls that cater to the other crafts, where again one gets first-hand experience of how the artisans work and how things are made. Woodwork, metalwork, papier-mache, weaving, embroidery, sculpture, and bamboo and cane craft are all featured at the Mela.A fair of this magnitude would naturally have supplementary interests. So, one has an equally interesting food section that serves a variety of Indian cuisines, which is traditional although there are several stalls selling fast food like burgers and chow mien too. Apart from that, there is the usual gamut of entertainment-rides and shows for kids, and daylong cultural events, including folk dance and music recitals, with stress on the state theme. The potter's wheel always holds a special enchantment for visitors as the artisans mould pots and pans with their deft fingers.The crafts in the Surajkund Mela are the creation of people coming from the remotest parts of the country. The craftwork of the people rain forest area of Assam and Manipur, the deserts of Rajasthan, the Nilgiri hills of south, the tribal lands of Bastar and from all the other areas come here to display their aesthetic pieces of work.

LEGENDS

The story of how the sun pool came into existence is an interesting tale. Over a thousand years ago, the clan of Tomar chieftains began establishing their supremacy near Delhi. They built their domain here, calling it 'Dellikha'. The Tomars were sun worshippers. One chieftain Raja Surajpal worked to build a sun temple at this site. Legend has it, that it was after this Raja that the place came to be known as Surajkund. But the Tomar kings could not stay here for long. Mauraders vanquished the Tomar clan and desecrated the temple. But the amphitheatre sun pool built adjacent withstood the onslaught of time to become the celebrated fair ground that it is today.

GETTING THERE

How to get there

The Surajkund Crafts Mela is held in the picturesque Surajkund Tourist complex of Haryana Tourism. The complex is eight km from south Delhi, the national capital and a drive from the Indira Gandhi International Airport would take approximately 35 minutes.

By Road

Surajkund is well connected to Delhi, Gurgaon and Faridabad district head quarter towns by road. It is approachable by tour coaches, tourist taxis and other public conveyance.

By Air

The nearest Airport is at Delhi. The complex is 35 minutes drive from the Indira Gandhi International Airport and 25 km from Palam Airport.

By Rail

Delhi is the nearest Railway junction. Faridabad and Gurgaon are both linked to Delhi through Railway lines. From each of these stations travel to Surajkund has to be done by cab/tourist coach. During the Mela period, special transport services link the main shopping centers and interstate bus stands of Delhi, Gurgaon and Faridabad to the Mela grounds.

International Yoga Festivals,Rishikesh

The ‘yoga capital of the wolrd’ is an appropriate setting for an introduction to this ancient practice.This annual festival attracts great yogic masters from all over the world, who arrive at the banks of the Ganges to demonstrate and explore the major traditions of Yoga (hatha, raja, karma, bhakti, mantra, laya and jnana). The town boasts of numerous Yoga school, as well as plenty of places to visit when your charkas are fully aligned.Apart from the Yoga schools, it is easy to be overwhelmed by the many ashrams (rest houses) in Rishikesh that offer courses on meditation, Yoga and Hindu philosophy. The Hatha Yoga and Pranayama meditation classes at Sri Ved Niketan Ashram are well known. The Shivananda Ashram, opposite the Shivananda Jhula, is also a favourite.

Desert Festival,Jaisalmer

Once a year during winters, the sands around Jaisalmer come alive with the brilliant colors, music and laughter of the Desert Festival. Dressed in brilliantly hued costumes, the people of the desert dance and sing haunting ballads of valor, romance and tragedy. The fair has snake charmers, puppeteers, acrobats and folk performers. Camels, of course, play a stellar role in this festival, where the rich and colorful folk culture of Rajasthan is on show. The festival closes with an enchanting sound and light show amidst the sand dunes on a moonlit night.

The Jaisalmer fort provides an ethereal backdrop to the annual desert festival. Sponsored by the Rajasthan State Tourism Corporation, this festival is a joyful celebration of the traditional performing arts and creative crafts of Rajasthan.

CELEBRATIONS

A few days before the spring full moon according to the Hindu calendar, musicians, dancers and performers from all over Rajasthan start moving in colorful camel caravans towards the golden town of Jaisalmer, which dons a festive look. The otherwise barren landscape is splashed with vibrant colors marking the opening of the Desert Festival. The 12th century fort of Jaisalmer, built in yellow sandstone, provides a fairytale background. Over the years, the desert dwellers in their solitude have woven a fascinating tapestry with threads of music and rhythm and the Desert Festival is a celebration of their heritage. It is a chance of a lifetime to see the folk art forms against the landscape that has nurtured them for hundreds of years. With the arrival of the artists, a delightful series of programs begins in and around Jaisalmer. There is music everywhere and at every given hour. Through the winding lanes of the fortified town to the sand dunes and even the rivers of abandoned villages, the music casts a potent spell. Beginning at sunrise, it reaches its zenith under the umbrella of the star-studded sky. Though it is mainly a festival of the performing arts, there are several other events that give a glimpse of the desert culture.

Through the day, visitors can come face to face with the desert craftsmen. Exquisitely embroidered skirts, hand-woven shawls, rugs, carvings on wood and stone, camel decorations, embroidered leather bags, ethnic silver jewelry and terracotta are brought in from all over the desert. These skillfully achieved crafts are objects d'art for the handicraft buff.

Evenings are meant for the main shows of music and dance. Vibrating desert drums can be heard for miles around. Nearly all the variations of performing arts of these desert people are displayed. Continuing till late into the night, the number of spectators swells up each night and the grand finale, on the full moon night, takes place by silvery sand dunes.

Although the basic design of the festival remains the same, each year there are a few new events. Some of the most spectacular and memorable shows of past festivals have been the dream-like pageant, "Blood, Blade and Romance" on the sand dunes recreating the legendary past; the camel tattoo of the Border Security Force, which has a highly trained camel corps to guard the western border; and the pulsating folk ensemble of a hundred musicians.

RITUALS

Camels are not just beasts of burden but an integral part of the desert life and the camel events confirm this fact. Special efforts go into dressing the animal for entering the spectacular competition of the best-dressed camel. Interestingly, there is a folk song to describe the making of the camel's necklace-the Gorband. Camel owners vie with each other for winning the camel races and a feeling of pride is discernible both in the eyes of the owner and his mount that wins. To add some more fun and color, the camel show has two unique events - the camel polo and the camel dance.Other interesting competitions on the fringes are the moustache and turban tying competitions, which not only demonstrate a glorious tradition but also inspire its preservation. Both the turban and the moustache have been centuries old symbols of honor in Rajasthan.Keeping the moustache twisted upwards meant keeping the pride intact while drooping moustaches conveyed complete surrender. Tying a turban is not only an intriguing tradition but an art as well. Varying styles of tying the turban and colors describe the caste, region and also the occasion. To the viewers, it appears complicated but those who have inherited the tradition tie a turban out of meters of cloth at the blink of an eye.

LEGENDS

Unlike the major festivals of Rajasthan, the desert festival has no legends to recount. It is a created event but the music traditions of the desert are so fascinating that conceiving the musical festival came as almost a natural solution for facilitating their preservation. It was also inspired by the Music Festival of Salzburg-though totally different in concept and content. Both the towns exude music and have a heavy inflow of tourists. But unlike the Salzburg Festival, the shows of the Jaisalmer Festival are not ticketed. Sponsored by the state tourism corporation, it has been designed to promote tourism in the enigmatic Thar Desert.Once the festival is over, it certainly leaves behind a nostalgic feeling. Some connoisseurs of music have been to the festival more than once and there is a tourist from Holland who has attended the festival four times.Today, this traditional extravaganza is a coveted event for music lovers-the performers as well as the listeners. For the performers, it has become a prestigious event to participate in. It has also helped find new talent and expended patronage to many artistes.

REGIONAL CELEBRATIONS

Jaisalmer is the only place where this desert festival is celebrated with great zest and zeal. Rajasthan being a popular tourist destination, the festival adds to its color.

PLACES TO VISIT

In order to witness its colorful festivities, one must visit Jaisalmer, the golden sand dunes where the festival takes place every year.

Khajuraho Dance Festival,Madhya Pradesh

Once the religious capital of Chandela dynasty, one of the powerful Rajput dynasties of Central India, Khajuraho is now famous for it's enchanting temples and it's legendary Khajuraho dance festival. The week- long festival of classical dances is held every year in February/March against the spectacular backdrop of the magnificently lit temples. This cultural festival highlights the richness of the various Indian classical dance styles such as Kathak, Bharathanatyam, Odissi, Kuchipudi, Manipuri and Kathakali with performances of some of the best exponents in the field. Modern Indian dance has also been added recently.

The dances are performed in an open-air auditorium, usually in front of the Chitragupta Temple dedicated to Surya (the Sun God) and the Vishwanatha Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, belonging to the western group.Along with the renowned performers, a number of craftsmen display their crafts to the visitors. There is an open market where local articles are there for sale. Khajuraho Dance Festival is conducted as a celebration of the cultural heritage of Khajuraho temples and preserving it for the coming generation.

Khajuraho Dance Festival is held every spring in the town of Khajuraho in order to celebrate the glory of the temples. It is believed that classical dance basically comes from the Hindu temples and attained it's maturity. This Festival is a cultural festival for the celebration of the Indian arts- dance and music handling down from generation to generation. The Khajuraho Festival of Dances shows the best classical dancers and dances in the country. It is held during the month of March from 6th to 12th. Different classical dances are presented during this festival, like the -Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, Odissi, Manipuri etc.

The main idea behind Khajuraho Dance Festival is to make the cultural heritage of Khajuraho relevant to the present society and preserving it for the coming generation. On this occasion a number of renowned artists and craftsmen participates in the workshop and seminar and present their art to the numerous visitors and tourist. And during this seven days festival, there is also a market in an open field where the visitors can get the entire local made articles of Khajuraho. This festival is known not only in our country but also to the outside world at large.

Natyanjali Festivals,Chidambaram

The festival in the honor of the great Cosmic Dancer or Lord Natraja (a form of Lord Shiva) is held every year in Chidambaram during February or March. This five-day long festival starts from the auspicious occasion of the Maha Shivaratri day. According to the Hindu mythology, Lord Nataraja is the Lord of Dances and hence the festival features dance performances in the 'Prakara' of the magnificent Chidambaram temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The 1000-year old temple provides a fitting backdrop to the spectacular event taking place under the golden roof of the temple showing pillars that depict Lord Nataraja in the classic 108 poses from the classical dance form of Tamil Nadu known as Bharatanatyam. Renowned dancers from all over India pay their homage to the deity by performing in the honor of Lord Nataraja at Natyanjali festival. The Department of Tourism of Government of Tamil Nadu, the Ministry Of Tourism of Government of India and the Natyanjali Trust of Chidambaram jointly organize this festival. One can almost feel the elation of the dancers as they go into a trance while performing with exquisite acumen and skill that comes with years of training and practice. The evocative 'Abhinaya' (acting) and the subtle movements of each of their body parts are worth seeing. Performing at the festival is considered one of the greatest honors offered to these classical dancers as they dance to create the 'Padams' and 'Varnams' in the course of creating an imaginary figure of the Lord Nataraja. The dance festival re-establishes music and dance as the universal language .

Nishagandhi Festival,Thiruvanathapuram

Thiruvananthapuram, capital city of Kerala is located in the southern most region of India. It is an excellent base to explore the interiors of Kerala. The Kanakakunnu Palace here is used to stage many cultural meets and programmes. The Nishagandhi open-air theatre in the palace compound holds a dance festival every year, from February 21st to 27th. Renowned dancers will perform Bharathanatyam, Mohiniyattam, Kathak, Odissi, modern ballet and other folk forms. Artist and connoisseurs of dance from all over India come to enjoy this cultural treat. The festival organised by the Tourism Development Corporation is free and is usually accompanied with music. It gives a fascinating glimpse of India's rich dance heritage.

How to get there

Air:

The airport 6kms from down town area is an important entry point into India with connecting flights to Maldives, Sri Lanka and many countries to the West of Arabian Sea and many other important ports.

Rail:

Thiruvananthapuram is an important railway terminus on the south-western coast with train services from all parts of the country. With in the region too Thiruvananthapuram is connected with express train services to all major centres.

Road:

At the junction of four National Highways Nos.7, 17, 45 and 47 Thiruvananthapuram is covered by very good network of roads that links the city to all parts of the southern India.

MARCH – APRIL

la Mohalla,Punjab

The ancient Sikh festival of Holla Mohalla is celebrated in the month of Phalguna, the day after Holi, and is a time for Sikhs to reaffirm their commitment to the brotherhood of man and their dedication to the Khalsa Pantha

Back in 1757, when the tenth Guru Govind Singh was around, it was felt that Holi - the festival of colour and happiness - had lost its original meaning amidst growing decadence and mayhem. Not one to tolerate such behaviour, the reformist Guru decided to re-establish the essence of Holi while restoring the Khalsa traditions. The result was the Holla Mohalla.

Many colourful processions mark this festival, and they are particularly spectacular in Anandpur, Sahib and Muktsar. Sikhs dress up in traditional martial costumes (especially the Nihangs or the "Order of the Blue-Clad Farmer-Warriors") and celebrate the day with competitions in archery, fencing, horse riding and shooting. In some areas, battles are re-enacted and cannons fired as a salutary reminder of the traditional warring trait of the Sikh religion. Although clearly a spectacular performance, watching is a risky affair... these men battle hard, even in jest!

Gangaur Fair,Jaipur

The Gangaur Festival is the colourful and most important local festival of Rajasthan and is observed throughout the State with great fervour and devotion by womenfolk who worship Gauri, the consort of Lord Shiva during July-Aug. It is the celebration of monsoon, harvest and marital fidelity in Jaipur.Gan is a synonym for Shiva and Gaur which stands for Gauri or Parvati who symbolises saubhagya (marital bliss). Gauri is the embodiment of perfection and conjugal love which is why the unmarried women worship her for being blessed with good husbands, while married women do so for the welfare, health and long life of their spouses and a happy married life.The festival commences on the first day of Chaitra, the day following Holi and continues for 18 days. For a newly-wedded girl, it is binding to observe the full course of 18 days of the festival that succeeds her marriage. Even unmarried girls fast for the full period of 18 days and eat only one meal a day.Images of Isar and Gauri are made of clay for the festival. In some families, permanent wooden images are painted afresh every year by reputed painters called matherans on the eve of the festival. A distinct difference between the idols of Teej and Gangaur is that the Idol will have a canopy during the Teej Festival while the Gangaur idol would not have a canopy.

The ladies decorate their hands and feet by drawing designs with mehendi (myrtle paste). The figures drawn range from the Sun, Moon and the stars to simple flowers or geometrical designs.Ghudlias are earthen pots with numerous holes all around and a lamp lit inside them. On the evening of the 7th day after Holi, unmarried girls go around singing songs of ghudlia carrying the pots with a burning lamp inside, on their heads. On their way, they collect small presents of cash, sweets, jaggery, ghee, oil etc. This continues for 10 days i.e. upto the conclusion of the Gangaur Festival when the girls break their pots and throw the debris into a well or a tank and enjoy a feast with the collections made.

The festival reaches its climax during the last three days. Unmarried girls and married women decorate the images and make them look like living figures. At an auspicious hour in the afternoon, a procession is taken out to a garden, tank or a well with the images of Isar and Gauri, placed on the heads of married women.

Ugadhi

Andhra, Karnataka, Maratha New Year’s Day

The waxing and waning phases of the moon form the month in the Telugu, Kannada and Marathi calendar, a chandra mana calendar based on the movement of the moon. The 30-day month starts on the day after new moon day (amavasya) and ends on the following new moon day. The twelve months in this calendar are called Chaitra, Vaisakha, Jyeshta, Ashada, Sravana, Bhadrapadha, Aswija, Karthika, Agrahayana, Pausha, Magha, and Phalguna. The start of Chaitra is new year’s day. In olden days, the thithi denoted what we call date. New moon day, amavasya, with the 14 thithis that follow – called prathama, dwithiya, truthiya, chaturthi, panchami, sashti, sapthami, ashtami, navami, dasami, ekadasi, dwadasi, trayodasi, chaturdasi – and full moon day, pournami, with the 14 thithis that follow and have the same names from prathama to chaturdasi thus comprise the month. The fortnight beginning with amavasya is called suddha paksha; and the fortnight beginning with poornima bahula paksha. Traditionally on Ugadhi a household’s menu includes the neem blossom preparation nimma kusuma bakshana. Also, the panchanga is read and explained.

'Gudi Padwa'

The Maharashtrian New Year's Day is celebrated in March/April, on the first day of the Hindu month - Chaitra and marks the beginning of spring or "Vasant".

This day is said to be the one on which Lord Brahma created the world after deluge. It is a day of great festivity and rejoicing as it also commemorates the triumphant expeditions of the Maratha armies of the great Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the most beloved leader of the Maharashtrians. It is a day when the brave Marathas returned home from their successful expeditions of war.

Gudi Padwa is considered a very auspicious day. New ventures are begun, house-warming poojas are performed, and people also choose to buy gold, silver or property on this day.
New Year is celebrated in different states of India under various names, for e.g. Ugadi in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, Gudi Padva in Maharashtra. The Sindhis celebrate it as Cheti chand.
Gudi means a "banner" raised to announce victory and joy and "Padva" is another name for "Pratipada" which is the first day of a lunar month.

How to celebrate Gudi Padva?

the "Gudi" is supposed to drive away evil from the house and are expected to usher in prosperity and good fortune. People get up early and clean their houses, decorating them with intricate rangoli (colored rice flour designs for the floor) designs. This worship to
A brightly colored silk cloth is first tied to a wooden pole with a brass or silver goblet or kalash is placed upturned atop it. Then garlands of sweet sugary battasa, neem leaves and orange -yellow marigold flowers are tied to the pole. This is called the "Gudi". The "Gudi" or decorated pole is placed where it can be seen by passers by.

We are getting the gudi ready.

This auspicious day also marks the beginning of the consumption of summer foods like melons, jack-fruit, mangoes , sprouted gram and more. A variety of sherbets such as Mango Panha and special sweets like Puran Poli are served. Traditional Maharashtrians have the custom of eating a couple of bitter neem leaves fried in ghee and mixed with sugar. They are eaten on Gudi Padva to ensure good health. The neem paste is believed to purify the blood and build up immunity in the body against diseases.

Gudi Padva is considered one of the auspicious days in the year when people start new ventures.
Gudi Padwa Recipes

Traditionally, bittersweet leaves of the neem tree are eaten on this day. A paste of crushed neem leaves, cumin seeds, jaggery and salt is taken before eating any food in the morning.
In the southern states, Puliogare-a sour tamarind rice dish, Bobbatlu, Holige- sweet stuffed bread and Ugadi Pachadi made of jaggery, raw mango pieces, neem flowers and tamarind is prepared. In Maharastra, Shrikhand -a fragrant yogurt dessert, with Poori-a fried puffy bread is prepared.

It is believed that on 'Gudi Padva' :

The Universe was created by Brahma.
Satyuga (The Age of Truth and Justice) began.
Shri Rama returned to Ayodhya victorious, after having killed Ravana.
This is one of the 3 and a half days in the Hindu Lunar calendar, whose every moment is considered auspicious.
The festival is celebrated as Ugadi in Karnataka. Seven, Nine or eleven haystacks are placed on a farmland and are set alight. The ashes are mixed while ploughing the farm.

The Vedas proclaimed that the year should consist of 12 months and the world has accepted it.

Holi and Dhuleti ( Festival of Colour )

Amongst India's innumerable festivals, Holi ranks as the most colourful. It celebrates the arrival of spring and death of demoness Holika, it is a celebration of joy and hope. Holi provides a refreshing respite from the mundane norms as people from all walks of life enjoy themselves. In a tight knit community, it also provided a good excuse for letting off some steam and settling old scores, without causing physical injury.

Holi continues to be celebrated with great vigour through out India. Countless Hindi films have brought the vibrant colours of the festival to the screen. Indians all over the world eagerly await the Festival of Colours, as bonfires are lit to banish the cold dark nights of winter and usher in warmer spring. Dhuleti, day after Holi, is the actual festival of colours, when everything in sight is covered in a riot of colours.

Twin towns of Nandagow ( where Lord Krishna grew up ) and Barsana ( where Shri Radha grew up ), near Mathura, are the epicentre of the celebrations. Lord Krishna, while growing up in Vraj, popularised the festival with his ingenious pranks. Gopies of Vraj responded with equal enthusiasm and the festivities have continued ever since. Role reversal, feminism etc. are accepted customs for the duration of the festival! Men and women of Vraj clash in a colourful display of battle of the sexes.

Celebrations start a week earlier than rest of India. Men of Nandagow raid Barsana with hopes of raising their flag over Shri Radhikaji's temple. They receive a thunderous welcome as the women of Barsana greet them with long wooden sticks. The men are soundly beaten as they attempt to rush through town to reach the relative safety of Shri Radhikaji's temple. Men are well padded as they are not allowed to retaliate. In this mock battle the men try their best not to be captured. Unlucky captives can be forcefully lead away, thrashed and dressed in female attire before being made to dance!!

Rush through Barsana is far more lethal than running with the bulls in Spain, at least you don't have to marry them one day! Famous poets like Surdas, Nand-das, Kumbhan-das and others, have written beautifully as to how Lord Krishna was similarly received and forced to wear a sari, forced to wear make-up and made to dance before being released by the gopies of Vraj.

The next day, men of Barsana reciprocate by invading Nandagow. Clouds of pink and white powder mark the frenzy of activity taking place in it's narrow streets. A naturally occurring orange-red dye, Kesudo, is used to drench all participants. Today, the women of Nadagow beat the invaders from Barsana. It is a colourful site. In the interest of tourisum and safety, the state tourist board has set up excellent vantage points for the public. A large open ground, on the outskirts of the town is specially set aside for the most magnificent display of the festivities.

The next day, the temples in Vrindavan celebrate the festival with great guesto. The renowned temple of Bakai-Bihari, the beloved lord of the 15th century saint Haridas, is at the centre of the festivities. Clouds of pink and white descend upon the pilgrims, as the Lord of Vrindavan plays holi with all his beloved visitors.

The festival moves on to other parts of Vraj. Soon enough, it is Dhulati and entire India celebrates the joys of spring as the "festival of colour".

Gulal-Kund in Vraj is a beautiful little lake, set in a delightful groves near the mountain Goverdhan, in the Mathura district. Here the festival is commemorated on a more regular basis. Pilgrims who visit the holy land of Vraj, can see the re-enactments of Holi throughout the year at this lake. Local boys, acting in the Krishna-Lila drama troupes re-enact the scenes of holi for the pilgrims.

Royal courts all over North India refined the festival in to an art form of its own. Rajput warriors of the Rajasthani courts used to show off their equestrian skills during the festival. Rajput men would ride their steeds through the white and pink clouds of colour, throwing colour powders on each other. Even the members of the royal families were not immune from being drenched by colour. The entire court would be drenched in saffron water and an orange-red dye of the "kasuda" flowers.

Pushti-Marga temples, spread throughout North and Western States of India, celebrate the festival in a way reminiscent of rajput courts. The Deity, and the laity, are liberally sprinkled with perfumes, saffron water, kesudo, and covered in sandalwood aswell as the white and pink powder, abil and gulal. Joyous celebration is accompanied by classical music, poetry and folk songs appropriate for the occasion. Deity's white clothes' are soon transformed into a mass of colour as gold and silver syringes spray colourful water on all participants.

The celebrations officially usher in the pleasant season of love, spring. In the Pushti-Marga temples, the festivities last for almost a month. Beginning on the day of Vasant-Panchami, the festivals last till the day after Holi. This helps prolong the season of joy.

Poem :- The weather is most pleasant and the spring flowers are in full bloom. Skies are clear, days are warm and nights are pleasantly cool. What more could you ask for, except to be covered in the "ranga" (colour) of your beloved!

Panguni Uthiram

Falls in the month Panguni (March-April). This month is special because of the star Uthiram and pournami occurring together. Besides, it is on Panguni pournami Uthiram that the marriage of Parvati and Parameswara, Muruga and Devasena, and Andal (also known as Kothai) and Rangamannar took place. Again, Valmiki’s Ramayan says it is on this day and star that Sita’s marriage with Rama was celebrated. From Brahmanda Puranam we learn that on Panguni Uthiram every holy water joins Thumburu teertha, one of seven sacred tanks in Tirupati Tirumala. The ancients chose Uthiram to convey to humans that it is for underlining the glory of grahasta dharma (married life) that the Almighty manifests in the marital state as Uma Maheswara, Sita Rama, and Radha Krishna – despite his changelessness, sans childhood or youth or old age. The Lord is indeed a Nitya Kalyana Murthi. It is our duty to celebrate this day when the Lord, in both Shiva and Vishnu temples, appears to devotees in his married state. On Panguni Uthiram, in all places where Lord Subrahmanya has a temple, his devotees carry in a kavadi the requisites for puja for him, in fulfilment of vows. Such vow fulfilment by devotees carrying kavadis is a special feature of Subrahmanya temples wherever they happen to be.

Sri Rama Navami

Falls in Panguni (March-April). Under the chandra mana computation this festival could also occur in Chaitra (April-May). Of Maha Vishnu’s ten avatars (manifestations) with which everyone is familiar, two are rooted in the popular mind: Krishnavatar and Ramavatar. These are avatars in which the Almighty descended to earth and lived among humans. Sri Rama was born on sukla paksha navami with Punarpoosam star in the month Panguni (Chaitra, under chandra mana). Through his life he demonstrated that Vaishnavism is what embodies love, character, integrity and equanimity. And his birthday has been celebrated since the hoary past. Consider what ancient texts say about the efficacy of Rama nama. This name is a shaivite and vaishnavite combination: the second letter “ra” in Narayana and the second letter “ma” in Namahshivaya combine to become the word Rama. This is the taraka mantra, sings Saint Tyagaraja. There was once a man who looked after his family through resort to robbery and killing of bird and beast. A sage who happened to pass that way asked the man whether he knew it was a sin to rob and kill. The man answered, “But I do these not for myself alone, I have a wife and family; and, since they share in the sin, only a small part of it will attach to me.” Verify if this is really so, the sage asked him. The man went home, and asked his family members: “Committing sinful actions, I look after you; do you, or do you not, have a share in that sin?” Their answer was that since it was his responsibility to look after them, no part of the sin would attach to them. The man recounted their reply to the sage and beseeched him to tell of a means to get liberated from sin. The sage pointed to a maramara tree and asked him to do japa repeating its name. And the man kept doing so even as an anthill of mud and leaves grew over him. As he repeated it, the word maramara became transfigured as Rama Rama. The legend is that this man was Valmiki who went on to write the epic Ramayan. Another legend has it that there was a dispute once in Kailash as to who should be appointed leader of Shiva’s ganas, or armies, and it was settled that it would be the one who circled the world first. Shiva’s forces immediately took to their mount to go round the world. Lord Vinayaka, however, wrote the taraka mantra “Rama” and went round the word, thereby acquiring the benefit of circling the earth. And he became ganapati or chief of ganas. Since then he has come to be known as Ganapati. Such is the power of the name Sri Rama bears. It is his birthday on a navami that we celebrate as Sri Rama Navami

APRIL- MAY

CHITRA POORNIMA

Occurs in April-May, on the day on which the star Chitra and full moon come together – a day when earth receives the combined effulgence of the moon and the star Chitra. A special day and special festival. Poornima is a day dear to the Mother. Both full moon and new moon days are good for propitiating forefathers. In astrology, moon is matru karaka. Austerities on this day please the spirit of one’s mother. It is on this day that the Umamaheswara vratam is observed. Ancients believed that austerities on poornima in the months Chittirai and Aippasi keep the souls of ancestors resting in peace. Chitra Poornima is, according to scriptures, the birthday of Chitragupta who keeps account of our virtues and sins. This day is one on which austerities are observed also to propitiate him. Legend has it that once Indra, offending Guru and incurring sin, reached earth in quest of a remedy, and happened to see a Shiva linga under a kadamba tree by the side of a pond. With golden hued lotuses from the pond, he worshipped the Shiva linga and was redeemed from his sin. And he had a temple constructed at the spot. That spot is present-day Madurai in South India with its Meenakshi temple. It was on Chitra Poornima that Indra got cleansed of his sins. On this day in the Madurai Meenakshi temple Devendra puja continues to be performed. In vaishnavite shrines like Tirupati and Azhagar koil, there is a perennial spring known as Akasa Ganga, in which, according to Brahmanda puranam, every holy river joins on Chitra Poornima. The devout bathe in Akasa Ganga on this day.

Baisakhi,Pujab

The Vaishakha period of April and May is filled with festivals of fun, frolic and merry-making. These festivals assume various forms, rituals and contents in the celebrations in Punjab, South India, Manipur and Assam. There are colourful displays in a compendium made up of abstruse philosophy as also light-hearted livety.

India’s rich and glorious civilization is mirrored in its innumerable fairs and festivals. They mark the seasons which signal to man the time for work and the time for play and relaxation, the commencement of the agricultural cycle with sowing in spring, and its culmination with the harvesting of the golden grain. And then, of course, we have, in endless variations of legend and myth, the hallowed perceptions that there is an ever-renewed war of light and darkness, of the divine and the demoniac in the unceasing evolution of the world.

Baisakhi, also called Vaisakhi, is a harvest festival which is celebrated on the thirteenth of April according to the solar calendar. It is celebrated in North India, particularly in Punjab, when the rabi crop is ready for harvesting. This tough agricultural operation is rendered into a lighter occupation by merry community festivities such as the Bhangra dance by men, who pound the ground with vigorous steps accompanied with singing. Women too, break into a revelry of dances principally the Gidda dance, executed with fervour and rhythmic exactitude. On these occasions, men and women adorn themselves with gay coloured clothes and traditional jewellery. Generally, the sites of these festivities are on the banks of the rivers which have their sacred import with myths and legends woven around their origin and names.

Baisakhi has a special meaning for the Sikhs. On this day in 1699, their tenth Guru Gobind Singh organized the order of the Khalsa. On this day also, Guru Arjan Das was martyred by the Muslim rulers who, in barbaric cruelty, threw him alive into a cauldron of boiling oil. Again, on this day in 1875, Swami Dayanand Saraswati founded the Arya Samaj—a reformed sect of Hindus who are devoted to the Vedas for spiritual guidance and have discarded idol worship. This day is once again of immense religious import to the Buddhists because Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment and Nirvana on this auspicious day.

Baisakhi day is observed as the Naba Barsha (New Year) in Bengal. On 14th April, the people take a ritual bath in the River Ganga or any other river or a nearby tank and bedeck their houses with rangoli (floral patterns) drawn on the entrance floor of their homes with a paste made of rice powder.

Baishakhi festival is celebrated twice a year in Himachal Pradesh in honour of Goddess Jwalamukhi. This happens in the months of Vaishakha (April-May) and Kartika (November). A temple near the hot springs is dedicated to the Goddess. Her image is so fabricated that a jet of flames issues forth from the mouth of the deity. This flame is held sacred and is worshipped. The neighbouring hot springs are a popular place for a holy dip by thousands of pilgrims on the days when the fairs are held.

In the South, Baisakhi is celebrated to mark the Tamil and Telugu New Year. In a ceremonial march, people take out wooden chariots in a procession. The temples in Kerala celebrate Pooram festivals usually in honour of Vishnu. Among them, the Pooram observed in the Vadakkunathan Swamy (Shiva) temple of Trichur is famous. The temple stands in the heart of the town in the Tekkin Kadu Maidan, once a forest of rosewood trees. Many smaller Poorams calld Cheru Poorams also take place. Caparisoned elephants with gold-plated ornamental coverings embellished with garlands and coloured umbrellas, mohair whisks, round, coloured hand fans, along with panchavadyam (a combination of five traditional musical instruments of Kerala), emerge from the surrounding temples. The elephants coverage on the main temple after circumambulation and prayers and thereafter disperse. In the afternoon, the primary Pooram commences with the two parties called Thiruvambadi and Paramekkavu, each along with its fifteen fully caparisoned elephants, accompanied by the traditional musicians of Kerala. After the procession has gone round the temple, it arrives on the vast maidan by evening. The elephants of various parties line up opposite each other and exchange their brightly-coloured umbrellas to perform the Kudamattam ceremony. This is a most impressive and spectacular sight. The entire atmosphere resounds with the high notes of music and by 9 pm the first Pooram comes to an end.

The second Pooram commences at midnight with a peculiar musical tone called the Elangithara Melan played under a tree called the elangi. Then starts a procession headed by fire torches and followed by the elephants which make for a thrilling scene, surpassing the beauty and grandeur of the earlier Pooram. The tempo of the Pooram comes to an end by early morning with a competitive display of fireworks among the two parties. The celebrations attract not only the people of Kerala but others from far and wide.

Another festival of note in South India takes place in honour of the Goddess Kamarchi Amman whose temple is located in Pondichery. The goddess is worshipped three times a day when the idol, duly decorated with jewelry and flowers, is taken out in daily processions on different mounts consisting of a horse, a lion, a swing or a chariot. Musicians accompany the procession. On the ninth day of the festival, between 10 am and 5 pm, the image is placed in a wooden chariot and taken out in a grand procession through Pondichery city.

To return to north India again, Bihar state celebrates a festival in Vaishakha (April) and Kartika (November) in honour of the Sun God, Surya, at a place called Surajpur-Baragaon. This is essentially a village where, according to an ancient practice, people bathe in the temple tank and pay obeisance to the Sun God while offering flowers and water from the sacred river Ganga. It may be mentioned here that the Sun God holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Bihar and Orissa—particularly the latter where the temple at Konark manifests this deep veneration.

North-East India with its complex of seven states, inhabited by people of different ethnic origins, languages and cultures, has its own panoply of spring festivals. Perhaps the most colourful is the is the exquisite festival called Lai Haraoba in the local Meitei dialect, celebrated by the people of Manipur. There are three variations of it peculiar to Moirang, Kanglei and Chapka. Of these, the one at Moirang is more widely known and attracts a larger audience because of its component of dance called Kamba-Thoibi. The celebration is a balanced composite of music, dance and sport which blend into a single entertaining event.

The word Lai in Lai Haraoba stands for God which is perhaps a derivative from the Sanskrit word Linga—the symbol of Lord Shiva. The festivalof Lai Haraoba is considered a synthesis of the old Tantric faith of the Manipuris combined with Shaivism. Although Manipuris’ major faith appertains to the Hindu gods Shiva and Vishnu, as also their incarnations Rama and Krishna, they zealously worship their distinctive tribal gods called Umang Lais numbering as many as 361. The Umang Lais means the gods of the forests, to whom the festival of Lai Haraoba is dedicated from the earlier tribal days when Manipur had sacred groves.

The festival of Lai Haraoba lasts a fortnight with the gods descending from the Heavens and returning there to when the celebrations terminate. During the festival, the creation of the earth is re-enacted by a quaint ceremony each year. Nine gods called Lai-purmthous give the vital elements of he earth to seven goddesses called Lainuras, who dance on water and throw the essence of the earth into water. Thereafter, Maibis level the created earth. Maibis like the devadasis, are consecrated girls who acquire this status when they exhibit their capacity to pass into a trance as if possessed by a god. Maibas, male priests, also perform a vital role along with the Maibis.

The time is now ripe for performing the Laipon dance, symbolizing the birth of a god. The god is known as Nong-Pokning-thuo who is believed to be the incarnation of Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva assumes youth and with a stick on his shoulders emerges from a hut and meets Panthoibi, the Manipuri name of Parvati, and marries her. After this divine union, a dance-drama is enacted when gestures and mudras purport that with their creative forces the earth has been re-energized as also the sustaining principals. When the gods feel that the earth has plenty of cotton and fish catch, they return to their celestial abode in a boat. After their departure, the empty thatched hut is set ablaze lest is should get haunted by evil spirits. With the burning of the house, the festival of Lai Haraoba finally comes to an end.

The brightest of the seven jewels in the eastern crown of India is Assam with its emerald green rice fields, undulating tea gardens with a backdrop of the Himalayas in the north covered with a pearls white snow line. Assam has been home to a number of ethnic groups professing different faiths. The Ahoms who came through the eastern gateways were Buddhists but soon embraced Hinduism with its many faces. Assam was also the birthplace of Shankar Deva who taught a new reformed Hinduism—Vaishnavism—with its many faces. Assam was also the birthplace of Shankar Deva who taught a new reformed Hinduism—Vaishnavism—with its namghars where people foregathered to chant hymns. All these varied strands were woven into a colourful fabric of social life and culture. The many Bihus or festivals of the Assamese are a celebration of life, of joie de vivre and a manifestation of the exuberance of the people. Perhaps, the most important of these Bihus is the Rangali Bihu celebrated on the 14th of April, the Spring festival and the Assamese equivalent of Baisakhi. Young women clad in their silken raiment, dance to the rhythm of the drum. Their costume consists of a sarong-like skirt known as the mekhala usually hand-woven in the golden fibred muga silk of Assam with wide decorated borders in bright red. They wear matching chaddars or shawl-like pieces of the same silken fabric draped over the upper part of the body and trucked in at the waist. The galaxy of the young women and men dancing and singing at the time of the Rangali Bihu is a colourful spectacle.

Festivals are occasions when people cast aside their misunderstandings and ill-feelings and refurbish relations of fellow feeling and amity.

Flavour Food Festival

This is an Indian food festival in which renowned hotels in Kerala participate. Continental, Chinese, North Indian and South Indian and many more varieties of food are also available. It takes place at Trivandrum in February every year.

Pooram

Thrissur Pooram - the spectacular festival of light and colour, percussion and elephants pooram of poorams'

Thrissur Pooram - considered to be the mother of all poorams, is a cultural highlight par excellence, celebrated in the Malayalam month Medam (April/May).

The two century old festival of spectacular procession of caparisoned elephants and enthralling percussion performances in a never ending succession is an 36 hours marathon event of incredible beauty, a feast for the eye and the ear, unfolding between 6 am to 12 noon the other day. Different from the usual temple festival, Thrissur Pooram is participated and conducted by people across all barriers of religion and caste. This is explained with the genesis of the festival.

Historical background

Before the advent of Thrissur Pooram, the largest temple festival during summer in central Kerala was the one-day festival held at Aarattupuzha, 12 km south of the town. Temples in and around Thrissur were regular participants of this religious exercise until they were once denied entry by the responsible chief of the Peruvanam area of Cherpu, known for its Namboodiri supremacy. As an act of reprisal and also in a bid to assuage their wounded feelings, Prince Rama Varma (1751-1805), also known as Sakthan Thampuran and enthroned as the ruler of the erstwhile Cochin state invited all these temples to bring their deities to Thrissur where they could pay obeisance to Lord (Sri) Vakunnathan, the deity of the Vadakunnathan temple. Further he directed the main temples of Thrissur, Thruvambadi and Pamamekkavu, to extend all help and support to these temples. It is this historical background that determines the course of the Pooram program and it is specifically the ruler's antipathy to the brahmin aristocracy to open Thrissur pooram for the common man.

Religious background:

Adhering to the medieval Peruvanam tradition, the festival is confined to the temples of Devi (goddess) and Sastha (divine combination of Shiva and Vishnu). Ten deities from the neighboring temples pay obeisance to the presiding deiety of Thrissur and only spectator of the Pooram events, Lord Siva at the Sree Vadakkunnathan temple, situated in the heart of the town. Principle participants are Paramekkavu and Tiruvambadi, close to the Vadakunnathan temple. Also participating and known as 'Cherupooram' are the suburban temples at Kanimangalam, Karamukku, Choorakkattukara, Laloor, Ayyanthole, Neithilakkavu and Chembukkavu, Panamukkampilly, altogether 8 deities. The sprawling Thekkinkadi maidan, en circling the Vadakumnathan temple, is the main venue of the festival.

Namboodiri: name of the brahmin caste in Kerala
Brahmin: the caste of the priests
Pooram: the highest caste in the hindu society the meeting point of all the arts
Malayalam: language of Kerala

Baisakhi Festival

Baisakhi is one of the major festivals of Sikhs and is celebrated with lot of enthusiasm and gaiety in the state of Punjab and all throughout the world where there is a significant Sikh population. For the large farming community of Punjab, Baisakhi Festival marks the time for harvest of rabi crops and they celebrate the day by performing joyful bhangra and gidda dance. For the Sikh community, Baisakhi Festival has tremendous religious significance as it was on a Baisakhi Day in 1699, that Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru laid the foundation of Panth Khalsa-the Order of the Pure Ones.

Date of Baisakhi

Baisakhi Festival falls on the first day of Vaisakh month (April-May) according to Nanakshahi or Sikh Calendar. For this reason, Baisakhi is also popularly known as Vaisakhi. According to English calendar, the date of Baisakhi corresponds to April 13 every year and April 14 once in every 36 years. This difference in Baisakhi dates is due to the fact that day of Baisakhi is reckoned according to solar calendar and not the lunar calendar. The auspicious date of Baisakhi is celebrated all over India under different names and different set of rituals and celebrations. Baisakhi date coincides with 'Rongali Bihu' in Assam, 'Naba Barsha' in Bengal, Puthandu in Tamil Nadu and 'Pooram Vishu' in Kerala.

Baisakhi Celebrations

People of Punjab celebrate the festival of Baisakhi with exuberance and devotion. As the festival has tremendous importance in Sikh religion, major activities of the day are organized in Gurdwaras. People wake up early to prepare for the day. Many also take bath in the holy river to mark the auspicious occasion. After getting ready people pay a visit to their neighbourdood gurdwara and take part in the special prayer meeting organized for the day. At the end of the Baisakhi ardas, congregates receive specially prepared Kara prasad or sweetened semolina. This is followed by a guru ka langar or community lunch. Later, during the day people of Sikh faith take out a Baisakhi procession under the leadership of Panj piaras. The procession moves through the major localities of the city amidst the rendition of devotional songs by the participating men, women and children. Mock duels, bhangra and gidda performances make the procession joyous and colourful.

Celebrations by Farmers

For the large farming community of Punjab and Haryana, Baisakhi marks a New Year’s time as it is time to harvest rabi crop. On Baisakhi, farmers thank god for the bountiful crop and pray for good times ahead. People buy new clothes and make merry by singing, dancing and enjoying the best of festive food. Cries of "Jatta aai Baisakhi", rent the skies as gaily men and women break into the bhangra and gidda dance to express their joy. Everyday farming scenes of sowing, harvesting, winnowing and gathering of crops are expressed through zestful movements of the body to the accompaniment of ballads and dhol music. In several villages of Punjab Baisakhi Fairs are organized where besides other recreational activities, wrestling bouts are also held.

JUNE –JULY

Hemis Festival,Ladakh

Hemis Festival is celebrated at the Hemis Monastery in Ladakh (the biggest monastery in Ladakh) and marks the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambahava (Guru Rimpoche), the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. He is believed to have fought with demons for the safety of the local people.

Hemis festival is celebrated on the 10th day (Tses-Chu) of the Tibetan lunar month and lasts for two days. The festival occurs only once in 12 years (as per the Tibetan calender it takes place in the year of the Monkey).

During the Hemis festival, a two storey high "Thankga," a religious icon painted or embroidered on cloth, depicting Padmasambahava is ritually exhibited. Ladakh getting ready to unveil the "Thankga" and celebrating the auspicious occasion on June 28th and 29th.

People who are touring India make it a point to be in Ladakh during this festival, where they can witness excellent masked dances that are performed to the beats of cymbals, drums & long horns. A colorful fair, displaying some beautiful handicrafts, is also the highlight of Hemis festival.

Sindhu Darshan Festival,Ladakh

The Sindhu Darshan Festival, as the name suggests, is a celebration of River Sindhu, also known as the Indus. Last year, the Festival was organised from 6-8 June 2000 at Shey livened up by the presence of a wide variety of cultural troupes from various corners of India. Troupes from States where the mighty Rivers of India run, brought with them water from those rivers in earthen pots and immersed the pots in the Indus, thereby mingling the waters from all over India with that of the mighty 'Indus', the river that gave India its name.

The Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of the Sindhu Cultural Center last year and also inaugurated the new office complex of Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council.This complex will be helpful in bringing out the unique culture of Ladakh region and its people. The facilities proposed at the complex include an auditorium for seating 500 people, an open air theatre, an exhibition gallery, a music room, a small library and a souvenir shop where Ladakh handicrafts could be available to visiting tourists.The Sindhu Darshan Festival is organised annually at Leh. People travel for a Darshan and Puja of the River Sindhu (Indus), which originates from the Mansarovar in Tibet. The festival is a celebration of this river. The Festival aims at projecting the Sindhu River as a symbol of multi-dimensional cultural identity, communal harmony and peaceful co-existence in India. It is also an opportunity for people from around the country and overseas to visit the beautiful regions of Leh and Ladakh.As part of the celebrations, various groups from different states in India bring water from the other mighty rivers in the country in earthen pots and immerse these pots in the Sindhu River, thereby mingling the river water with other waters of the land. The Sindhu Cultural Centre was inaugurated a few years back as well as the new office complex of Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council.

This complex will be helpful in bringing out the unique culture of the Ladakh region and its people.The facilities proposed at the complex include an auditorium for seating 500 people, an open-air theatre, an exhibition gallery, a music room, a small library and a souvenir shop where Ladakh handicrafts could be available to visiting tourists.The Sindhu Darshan Festival aims at projecting the Sindhu as a symbol of multi-dimensional cultural identity, communal harmony and peaceful co-existence in India. Whilst promoting tourism to this area, this festival is also a symbolic salute to the brave soldiers of India who have bravely fought the odds at Siachin, Kargil & other places. The Sindhu Darshan Festival will help forge a bond of unity with those who live in far-flung corners of the country and provide an opportunity to visit the beautiful region of Ladakh. As a National Integration Program, the festival was welcomed by the Ladakh Buddhist Association, Shia Majilis, Sunni Anjumam, Christian Moravian Church, Hindu Trust and Sikh Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee. The three day programme will be inaugurated on June 1, 2001 at Shey is being organized by the Government of Jammu and of Kashmir with the support of Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Govt. of India. The festival promises a kaleidoscope of Indian culture and an exciting array of performing arts being brought together at an exciting place. Indian Airlines is expected to operate special flights for the festival.The Sindhu Darshan Festival is organised annually at Leh. The first time when this Festival was organised in October 1997, over seventy people from all over India had travelled to Leh for a Darshan and Puja of the River Sindhu (Indus) which originates from the Mansarovar in Tibet.

JULY- AUGUST

Teej Festivals,Rajasthan/Delhi

This swing festival welcomes the advent of the monsoon. Swings are hung from trees and decorated with flowers. Women, colourfully attired, swing on them and sing songs in celebration.
With every drop of first rains; Peacocks dance in ecstasy, spirits soar high in celebration. Song & dance mark the gaiety of the Teej Festival. Teej is held on Third day of the moonlight fortnight of the Hindu Month of Shravan (Mid-July to Mid-August) and marks the advent of the monsoons. The monsoon rains fall on the parched land and the pleasing scent of the wet soil rises into the air. The monsoon rains fall on the parched land and the pleasing scent of the wet soil rises into the air.

Teej is the festival for the daughters of the house. This festival is dedicated to the Goddess Parvati, commemorating her union with Lord Shiva. The festival is also dedicated to Goddess Parvati and commemorates the day when she was united with Lord Shiva after a penance of a hundred years – making them a symbol of an ideal marriage. It is believed that invocation of Parvati’s blessings on this day results in continued marital bliss.

Type of Teej

In the state of Rajasthan three kinds of Teej are celebrated and worshiped by the local public in the region. Broadly,

On Haryali Teej: The moon is prayed to.
On Kajari Teej: women gather to sing songs and a pooja of neem is performed.
On Hartalika Teej: Fast for 3 days without any water on the second day.

This festival is more famous amongst the people of Rajasthan and thus the celebration of Teej remains exclusive to the Jaipur region. Teej holds a special place in the heart of the people of Jaipur as a time for rejuvenation and revival of spirits after the punishing summers. The festival is made into an even more memorable experience if it rains on this day.

LEGEND

The legend behind the celebrations is Goddess Parvati’s hard-core Tapasya, before her union with Lord Shiva, for which she took 108 births on the Earth. The Myth goes that she failed to have Lord Shiva as her Life Partner till 107th Birth. But this divine union happened, when she again took birth for 108th time.

RITUALS

Seekers of conjugal bliss and happiness worship goddess Parvati. An elaborate procession is taken out in Jaipur for two consecutive days on the festive occasion, which is watched by people in large numbers.

Teej is especially celebrated in Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan. However, people of Bihar and parts of Uttar Pradesh also consider this festival an auspicious one. Though the revelry and public participation is absent here, Lord Shiva and his wife Parvati are worshipped by married women who keep a 24-hour fast for the long life of their husband. The fast is a strict one during which the women are not allowed to have even a sip of water. An offering of traditional sweets and fruits is made and women pray for the long life and prosperity of their husband.

Women undergo fasts; sing folk songs and dance in the name of Goddess Parvati. It is a belief that unmarried women fasting will luckily find a suitable husband. Fasting married women will also find their husband more faithful and bonds of love strengthened.

The images of Parvati or Teej Mata are bedecked in new clothes and jewellery and worshipped. The Teej idol is covered with a canopy whereas the Gangaur idol is open. After a ceremonial worship at home, elephants are taken out in a ceremonial process escorted by camels, and horses. Then the images are taken out in ceremonial processions escorted by caparisoned elephants, camels and horse drawn chariots, as the bride Parvati leaves her parents home for her husband's. The festivity revolves around singing and dancing in praise of Parvati. The devotees surges to catch a glimpse of the deity and seek blessings.

CELEBRATIONS

On the occasion of Teej, Dandia dances are arranged by professionals and performed in courtyards at home and in public places.

The young girls of the house who dress up in colourful saris, lehangas and chunris, also perform these dances.

The colourful dandas (sticks) moving in rhythmic beats, with each swing of the hands and feet, hitting either at one's own danda held in the other hand, or at the one held by the other dancers, are really beautiful to watch.

Girls with Henna on their hands and feet run about joyously and are excused from household chores on this day. Special Mehndi motifs also called laheria and ghewar are applied to match the mood of Teej.

On Teej, it is a must for the girls to receive clothes from their parents. Gifts comprising of set of heavy clothes, eatables, dry fruits, bangles, which is called as baya, for the first year after marriage is given to the newly weds. Girls engaged to be married, receive gifts from their future in-laws a day before the festival. The gift, called Shrinjhara derived from the word shringar (adornment), consists of henna, lac bangles, a special dress of laheria (tie and dye fabric) and a sweet called ghewar.

The pooja is performed in the morning. The baya which consists of a variety of foodstuff is placed on a thaali (plate) at the place of worship where a chowk (square) has been decorated, an idol or a picture of Parvati is installed. The evenings are set aside for singing and dancing.
Swings are hung from trees and decorated with flowers. Young girls and women colourfully attired, swing on them and sing songs in praise of the goddess and the monsoon. The gracefully ornamented and colourfully dressed women celebrate the day adding fun and frolic to it through their local gatherings. The hands crafted with Henna add into the beauty of the ladies and a popular belief that goes with it is that the darker the Henna the more a man loves his woman.
The colours of the month of Sawan, lilting songs - specific to the festival, are sung to accompany the application of henna, creating an aura of romance. This atmosphere of Teej is celebrated with the fullest of life to make it the most memorable day of the year and for the reason it is the much awaited festival amongst the girls of India.

The tie-and-dye chunri in green, red, and yellow with its zari and gota along with green, yellow and red bangles, becomes a feast for the eyes.

The rituals allow one to pamper and enjoy themselves, to fast and feast, to dress the best with best of cloths, finery and jewellery. The festivities end with exchange of gifts and the arrivals of husbands to fetch their wives. The wives then leave then leave their parent’s home like Parvati.

AUGUST-SEPTEMBER

Rath Yatra

This chariot procession on the main streets of Ahmedabad city features a lot of colourful chariots, trucks and other vehicles.

The procession commemorates the journey of lord Krishna to Mathura, leaving behind grieving Gopis. The massive procession begins at Jagdish temple in Jamalpur. The main chariots are dedicated to lord Krishna, his brother Balaram and sister Subadhra, followed by colourfully decorated elephants, trucks, motor vehicles, pilgrims on foot, acrobats and gymnasts.

Besides Ahmedabad, it is worth visiting Dakore for the large Rath yatra fair.

Ganesh festival in maharashtra

Ganesh Chaturthi - the fourth day of Bhadrapad month is a specific day for Ganesh. It is very emphatically asserted by Dnyaneshwar in Maharashtra, where the importance and spread of Ganesh worship in the of Bhadrapad Mahina (August – September ) is the greatest, the bright fourth of lunar .

Origin of ganesh utsavo

It so happened that one sardar of Peshwa named Nanasaheb Khajgiwale in 1892 visited the palace of Gwalior, where he came across Ganesh Utsav. People from all walks of life participated in this utsav. Seeing this, Nanasaheb got delighted and decided to start the same kind of festival at Pune, the capital of Peshwa. Accordingly, in 1896 Shri Khajgiwale, Shri Ghotawadekar and Shri Bhau Rangari arranged a Sarvajanik PublicGanesh Utsav and in the same year, Ganesh immersion ritual was also started.

In the next year i.e. 1897, the number of Ganesh mandals increased alarmingly, and the question of whose Ganpati will be the first in cavalcade was hotly debated. At this crucial time, Shri Lokmanya Tilak and Shri Annasaheb Patwardhan were called to resolve the issue. They gave first preference to Jijamata Prasthapit Kasaba Ganapati Ganesh Utsav mandal. Thereafter, people started celebrating Ganesh Utsav on a large scale.

Ganesh festival in mumbai

Ganesh Chaturthi - the fourth day of Bhadrapad month is a specific day for Ganesh. It is very emphatically asserted by Dnyaneshwar in Maharashtra, where the importance and spread of Ganesh worship in the of Bhadrapad Mahina (August – September ) is the greatest, the bright fourth of lunar Keshavji Naik Chawl (Girgaon) was the pioneer in starting the Ganesh Utsav in Mumbai with the figure being around 2500 at present thereby signifying the ever increasing popularity of this festival. It is celebrated with great fervor and pomp in old Mumbai- Southern region and Central region.

Each mandal has it’s own way of celebrating the festival. Some of them lay emphasis on performing pooja while some lay emphasis on carrying out social activities like blood donation camps, free medical checkups, scholarships to poor and bright students and so on.

The immersion of the worshipped image takes place not earlier than the afternoon of the second day all over Maharashtra. The immersion period could be a day and a half or five or a higher number of odd days later untill the last day of bright fourteenth, which is known as Anant Chaturdashi.

The size of the Ganesh idols ranges from 3/4th of an inch to over 25 feet. The shape of the idols also varies depending upon which form the mandals want to depict. There is no evidence in case of region other than Maharashtra that the installed idol was kept or could be kept for longer period. The disposal of worshiped idol is to be made preferably in the sea or running stream or may be made in pond or well, which must be other than one’s own.

Ganesh Chaturthi

Ganesh or Vinayaka Chaturthi is dedicated to Lord Ganesh (son of Shiva), the elephant -headed god of all good beginnings and success. The festival celebrated as the birth day of Lord Ganesha, held annually in South India especially with great fervor in Maharashtra, is a ten day long event.

On the occasion of the Ganapati festival, a large number of idols are made of clay or metal in all possible sizes sometimes even up to twenty feet.

People buy them and install them in their houses and worship the idol for one to ten days, after which the idol are taken out ceremoniously, carried in a procession through the streets of the town (especially in Maharashtra) and immersed into the river, sea or well. The sea front at Mumbai, packed with people, is a spectacular sight.A cultural feast is held to coincide with Ganesh Chaturthi in Maharashtra especially at Pune. Classical dance, music performances, poetry recitations, folk dances, theatre and film festival are the main features of this festival.On the 4th day of the bright half of Bhadrapad, the great festival of Ganesh or Ganpati is celebrated. This festival marked the birthday of Lord Ganesh. Ganpati is one of the most popular deities. Both Shaivites and Vaishnavites worship him. Even Buddhists and Jains have respect for Ganpati. He is considered to be an avatar of both Shiva and Vishnu.

To appreciate this occasion, one must go to Mumbai where preparations begin months in advance. Images of Ganesha are installed within homes as well as in places of assembly. Elaborate arrangements are made for lighting and decoration and Ganesha is fervently worshipped for about 7-10 days.On the day of the Chaturthi, the last of the days dedicated to the elephant-headed god, thousands of processions converge on the beaches of Mumbai to immerse the holy idols in the sea. This immersion is accompanied by drumbeats, devotional songs and dancing. Every year, the largest Ganesh idol is installed at Khairatabad in Hyderabad, which is more than 30 ft tall.The Ganapati Mahotsav or the Grand Festival of Ganesha is the principle festival in Bombay, the financial capital of India. In Bombay factories commission the largest of the 6000 or so Ganeshas collectively.

Each of these idols can be upto 10 metres in height and are paraded on lorries decorated with multi-coloured lights. At the other end of the scale, little Ganeshas are placed in nukkads or street corners and in homes, and pujas are performed daily. The festival was started by Shivaji , the great Maratha ruler, to promote culture and a feeling of nationalism amongst his subjects who were fighting against the Mughals.After his death the festival was celebrated but on a smaller scale. In 1894 when the British banned public assemblies Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak who felt that this was way of spreading the freedom message through a legitimate religious festival revived the festival.

On full moon day every idol is taken down to the Chowpatty beach accompanied by hordes of people singing and dancing and is immersed in the Arabian Sea.

Ganpati is the god of learning. He is addressed as the "Remover of Obstacles" ("Vignaharta"). His devotees believe that no enterprise will succeed unless he is invoked. The picture of Ganpati is often found on the doors of houses and printed on wedding cards. On the occasion of the Ganpati festival a large number of images are made of all possible sizes, and people buy them to keep in their houses as a divine guest for one and a half, five, seven, or ten days, after which the image is taken out ceremoniously and thrown into the river, sea or well for immersion or "visarjan". When he is immersed in the water, people sing,

"'GANPATI BAPPA MORYA, AGLE BARAS TO JALDI AA," ("father Ganpati, next year come again.")

Parvati's Bath and Shankar's Ire The mythological basis of the celebration is found in the Puranas. One day Parvati was taking bath. She wanted someone to watch outside. She got the idea of making an idol out of the dirt that came from her body. She placed the idol outside. Then her husband Shankar came. The idol dutifully did not allow him to enter. Shankar was furious. In an instant he severed the head of the idol.Parvati finished her bath and came out. She explained to her husband the reason for placing the idol before the door. It was an idol of her own making. In fact the idol was her son ("manas putra"), and consequently also Shankar's son.
Shankar felt sorry for what he had done. His servant Gan was standing nearby. Shankar ordered him to go and bring the head of the first living being he would meet. The servant saw an elephant, and he at once cut his head and took it to Shankar. Shankar joined the elephant's head to the body of Parvati's son. "Gaj' means elephant and "anan" means head, so Parvati's son became known as "Gajanan". Shankar made him the deity of his armies and thus his name became Ganesh ("Gan" = army, "Ish" = god) or Ganpati, which means "The Lord of Hosts".

108 Names of Lord Ganesha and the meanings -

1. Akhurath: One who has mouse as his charioteer
2. Alampata : Ever eternal lord
3. Amit : Incomparable lord
4. Anantachidrupamayam: Infinite and consciousness personified
5. Avaneesh: Lord of the whole world
6. Avighna: Remover of obstacles
7. Balaganapati: Beloved and lovable child
8. Bhalchandra: Moon-crested lord
9. Bheema: Huge and Gigantic
10. Bhupati: Lord of the gods
11. Bhuvanpati: God of the gods
12. Buddhinath: God of wisdom
13. Budhipriya: Knowledge bestower
14. Bhudhividhata: God of knowledge
15. Chaturbhuj: One who has four arms
16. Devadeva: Lord of all lords
17. Devantakanashakarin: Destroyer of evils and asuras
18. Devarata: One who accepts all gods
19. Devendrashika: Protector of all gods
20. Dharmik: One who gives charity
21. Dhoomravarna: Smoke-Hued lord
22. Durja: Invincible lord
23. Dvaimatura: One who has two mothers
24. Ekaakshara: He of the single syllable
25. Ekadanta: Single-Tusked lord
26. Ekadrishta: Single-Tusked lord
27. Eshanputra: Lord Shiva’s son
28. Gadadhara: One who has the mace as his weapon
29. Gajakarna: One who has eyes like an elephant
30. Gajanana: Elephant-Faced lord
31. Gajananeti: Elephant-Faced lord
32. Gajavakra: Trunk of the elephant
33. Gajavaktra: One who has mouth like an elephant
34. Ganadhakshya: Lord of all Ganas (Gods)
35. Ganadhyakshina: Leader of all the celestial bodies
36. Ganapati: Lord of all Ganas (Gods)
37. Gaurisuta: The son of Gauri (Parvati)
38. Gunina: One who is the master of all virtues
39. Haridra: One who is golden colored
40. Heramba: Mother’s Beloved son
41. Kapila: Yellowish-Brown coloured
42. Kaveesha: Master of poets
43. Krti: Lord of music
44. Kripalu: Merciful lord
45. Krishapingaksha: Yellowish-Brown eyed
46. Kshamakaram: The place of forgiveness
47. Kshipra: One who is easy to appease
48. Lambakarna: Large-Eared lords
49. Lambodara: The huge bellied lord
50. Mahabala: Enormously strong lord
51. Mahaganpati: Omnipotent and supreme lord
52. Maheshwaram: Lord of the universe
53. Mangalamurti: All auspicious lord
54. Manomay: Winner of hearts
55. Mrityunjaya: Conqueror of death
56. Mundakarama: Abode of happiness
57. Muktidaya: Bestower of eternal bliss
58. Mushikvahana: One who has mouse as charioteer
59. Nadapratithishta: One who appreciates and loves music
60. Namasthetu: Vanquisher of all evils and vices and sins
61. Nandana: Lord Shiva’s son
62. Nideeshwaram: Giver of wealth and treasures
63. Omkara: One who has the form of OM
64. Pitambara: One who has yellow-colored body
65. Pramoda: Lord of all abodes
66. Prathameshwara: First among all
67. Purush: The omnipotent personality
68. Rakta: One who has red-colored body
69. Rudrapriya: Beloved of lord Shiva
70. Sarvadevatman: Acceptor of all celestial offerings
71. Sarvasiddanta: Bestower of skills and wisdom
72. Sarvatman: Protector of the universe
73. Shambhavi: The son of Parvati
74. Shashivarnam: One who has a moon like complexion
75. Shoorpakarna: Large-eared Lord
76. Shuban: All auspicious lord
77. Shubhagunakanan: One who is the master of all virtues
78. Shweta: One who is as pure as the white colour
79. Siddhidhata: Bestower of success and accomplishments
80. Siddhipriya: Bestower of wishes and boons
81. Siddhivinayak: Bestower of success
82. Skandapurvaja: Elder brother of Skanda (Lord Kartik)
83. Sumukha: Auspicious face
84. Sureshwaram: Lord of all lords
85. Swaroop: Lover of beauty
86. Tarun: Ageless
87. Uddanda: Nemesis of evils and vices
88. Umaputra: The son of goddess Uma (Parvati)
89. Vakratunda: Curved trunk lord
90. Varaganapati: Bestower of boons
91. Varaprada: Granter of wishes and boons
92. Varadavinayaka: Bestower of Success
93. Veeraganapati: Heroic lord
94. Vidyavaridhi: God of wisdom
95. Vighnahara: Remover of obstacles
96. Vignaharta: Demolisher of obstacles
97. Vighnaraja: Lord of all hindrances
98. Vighnarajendra: Lord of all obstacles
99. Vighnavinashanaya: Destroyer of all obstacles and impediments
100. Vigneshwara: Lord of all obstacles
101. Vikat: Huge and gigantic
102. Vinayaka: Lord of all
103. Vishwamukha: Master of the universe
104. Vishwaraja: King of the world
105. Yagnakaya: Acceptor of all sacred and sacrificial offerings
106. Yashaskaram: Bestower of fame and fortune
107. Yashvasin: Beloved and ever popular lord
108. Yogadhipa: The lord of meditation

URS Ajmer Sharif,Ajmer

The urs, acommomerative celebration is held in the solemn memory of Khwaja Muin-nddin Chisti, a prighly respected sufi saint fondly revered as the benefactor of the poor, popularly known as Gareeb Nawaz. The Dargah Sharif in Ajmer, is the place where the Saints mortal remains lie burried and is the site of the largest Muslim Fair in India.Chadar; Ghilaph & Neema which are votive offerings for the tomb are offered by several hundred thousand devotees. Mehfils & Qawwalis are held and mass prayer calls for the eternal peace of the mankind. An interesting ritual is the looting of Kheer (Milk Pudding) which is cooked in two large cauldrons called Degs and distributed to the devotees as tabarruk (blessed food).The lakeside city of Ajmer is located in central Rajasthan, and is held in great reverence by devotees of all communities who call it 'Ajmer Sharif' (Holy Ajmer). It is here that the mortal remains of the highly respected Sufi saint Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chishti lie buried. The Khwaja came from Persia and established the Chishtia order of fakirs in India. He is popularly known as Gharib Nawaz (protector of the poor) because he dedicated his entire life to the service of mankind. His spartan life spanned almost a hundred years and he embraced death in solitude while he had withdrawn to his cell for six days, asking not to be disturbed.The Dargah Sharif in Ajmer is the place where the Saint's mortal remains lie buried and is the site of the largest Muslim fair in India. More than five lakh devotees belonging to different communities gather from all parts of the subcontinent to pay homage to the Khwaja on his Urs (death anniversary) during the first six days of Rajab (seventh month of the Islamic calendar.) The pilgrims who come to seek the blessings of the Khwaja make rich offerings called nazrana at the holy spot where the saint has been entombed. The offerings of rose and jasmine flowers, sandalwood paste, perfumes and incense contribute to the fragrance that floats in the air inside the shrine. Also offered by devotees are the chadar, ghilaph and neema, which are votive offerings for the tomb.These are brought by devotees on their heads and handed over to the khadims inside the sanctum sanctorum. Outside the sanctum sanctorum of the dargah, professional singers called qawwals in groups and sing the praises of the saint in a characteristic high pitched voice. People gather around them and listen attentively, sometimes clapping to the rhythm of their instruments. The Urs is initiated with the hoisting of a white flag on the dargah by the Sajjada Nashin (successor representative) of Chishtis. It is done on the 25th of Jamadi-ul-Akhir (sixth lunar month), with the accompaniment of music. On the last day of the sixth month, the Jannati-Darwaza (gateway of heaven) is flung open early in the morning. People cross this gate seven times with the belief that they will be assured a place in heaven. On the 1st of Rajab, the tomb is washed with rose water and sandalwood paste and anointed with perfumes. This ritual is called ghusal. The tomb is then covered with an embroidered silk cloth by the Sajjada Nashin.An interesting ritual is the looting of kheer (milk-pudding) which is cooked in two large cauldrons called degs and distributed to the devotees as tabarruk (blessed food).On the 6th of Rajab, after the usual mehfil and the sound of cracker-bursts accompanied by music, the Sajjada Nashin performs the ghusal of the tomb.

Fatiha and Salamti are read. A poetic recitation called mushaira is arranged in which poets of all communities arrive to recite compositions dedicated to the Khwaja. The Qul (end-all) on the 6th of Rajab marks the end of the Urs. At night, religious assemblies called mehfils are held in the mehfil-khana, a large hall meant for this purpose. These are presided over by the Sajjada Nashin of the dargah.Qawwalis are sung and the hall is packed to capacity. There are separate places reserved for women who attend the mehfil. The mehfil terminates late in the night with a mass prayer for the eternal peace of the Khwaja in particular and mankind in general. The Dargah is located at the conjunction of three bazaars. There are a number of restaurants around the Dargah where visitors can choose from a variety of dishes most of which are non-vegetarian preparations. Guest houses on the road leading to the Dargah offer accommodation that ranges from economical to luxurious. Many other guest houses are strewn across the city. The shops in the market around the Dargah sell flowers, prayer mats, rosaries, textiles, and general merchandise as well.Ajmer is 132 kms. south-west of Jaipur and 198 kms. east of Jodhpur. It is connected by road to Jaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Udaipur and Kota. Ajmer is a railway junction on the Delhi-Ahmedabad section of the Western Railway. During the Urs, special buses ply from cities all over India carrying people to Ajmer and back.

Chaturthy

This festival is celebrated in the month of avani on chaturthi (4th) day which comes after the new moon. It is celebrated all over India. People celebrate this day in a variety of ways. For anything to go well, we pray Lord Vinayaka. He is the first to be worshipped whenever we start anything. He relieves us from all our difficulties. He solves our problems.

Lord Vinayaka has got an elephant face and human body. He is worshipped by many names like Vinayaka, Ganesha, Pillayar, Vigneshwara, Gajanana, Ganapathy, Mooshika Vahanaa, Modhaga priya etc. He rides on an animal called mooshika(a large kind of rat).

In our houses we celebrate this pooja in a grand manner. We decorate the floor with kolams using rice flour. On that day we buy a new Vinayaka idol(made of clay). We also buy a decorated umbrella to place behind the idol. On a wooden plank, plantain leaf is placed and raw rice is spread over it. We place the idol on this and decorate with flowers and perform pooja.

Vinayaka likes a dish called mothagam(kozhukkattai). So different varieties of kozhukkattai are prepared and offered to the lord on this day. It is the special item on this day.

On the next day, punar pooja is done. This is the pooja which acts as an ending to the festival. After this we remove the idol from its place. On the next day after punar pooja, we immerse the idol in water in the sea, well or pond.

In cities like Mumbai, Chennai etc. large Ganesha idols (a bout 6 ft) are placed in common places and pooja is performed in a very grand manner. People all around worship the lord. Prasadams (Dish offered to the lord) are distributed to the people. After the pooja is over, the idol is taken in a grand procession and immersed in the sea.

For this pooja, different flowers are used. Erukkampoo(calotropis), thumbaipoo(white small flowers and arugampul( a type of grass) is very special for the lord. Different varieties of fruits are also offered.

Raksha Bandhan

Rakhi: The Thread of Love

About Raksha Bandhan

The chaste bond of love between a brother and a sister is one of the deepest and noblest of human emotions. 'Raksha Bandhan' or 'Rakhi' is a special occasion to celebrate this emotional bonding by tying a holy thread around the wrist. This thread, which pulsates with sisterly love and sublime sentiments, is rightly called the ‘Rakhi’. It means 'a bond of protection', and Raksha Bandhan signifies that the strong must protect the weak from all that’s evil.

The ritual is observed on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Shravan, on which sisters tie the sacred Rakhi string on their brothers' right wrists, and pray for their long life. Rakhis are ideally made of silk with gold and silver threads, beautifully crafted embroidered sequins, and studded with semi precious stones.

The Social Binding

This ritual not only strengthens the bond of love between brothers and sisters, but also transcends the confines of the family. When a Rakhi is tied on the wrists of close friends and neighbors, it underscores the need for a harmonious social life, where every individual co-exist peacefully as brothers and sisters. All members of the community commit to protect each other and the society in such congregational Rakhi Utsavs, popularized by the Nobel laureate Bengali poet Rabindranath Tagore.

The Friendly Knot

It won’t be wrong to say the fashionable friendship band in vogue today is an extension of the Rakhi custom. When a girl feels a friend of the opposite sex has developed a kind of love too strong for her to reciprocate, she sends the guy a Rakhi and turns the relationship into a sisterly one. This is one way of saying, "let’s just be friends", without hurting the other person's soft feelings for her.

The Auspicious Full Moon

In Northern India, Rakhi Purnima is also called Kajri Purnima or Kajri Navami, when wheat or barley is sown, and goddess Bhagwati is worshipped. In Western states, the festival is called Nariyal Purnima or the Coconut Full Moon. In Southern India, Shravan Purnima is an important religious occasion, especially for the Brahmins.

Raksha Bandhan is known by various names: Vish Tarak - the destroyer of venom, Punya Pradayak - the bestower of boons, and Pap Nashak - the destroyer of sins.

Rakhi in History

The strong bond represented by Rakhi has resulted in innumerable political ties among kingdoms and princely states. The pages of Indian history testify that the Rajput and Maratha queens have sent Rakhis even to Mughal kings who, despite their differences, have assuaged their Rakhi-sisters by offering help and protection at critical moments and honoured the fraternal bond. Even matrimonial alliances have been established between kingdoms through the exchange of Rakhis.

History has it that the great Hindu King Porus refrained from striking Alexander, the Great because the latter’s wife had approached this mighty adversary and tied a Rakhi on his hand, prior to the battle, urging him not to hurt her husband.

Why Rakhi?

Rituals like Rakhi, there is no doubt, help ease out various societal strains, induce fellow-feeling, open up channels of expression, give us an opportunity to rework on our role as human beings and, most importantly, bring joy in our mundane lives.

“May all be happyMay all be free from illsMay all behold only the goodMay none be in distress.”

Janmashtami

Janmashtami, the birth of Lord Krishna is celebrated with great devotion in the August/September months, on the Ashtami of Krishna Paksh or the 8th day of the dark fortnight in the month of Bhadon, in the whole of north India. Temples and homes are beautifully decorated and lit. An attractive feature of the celebrations are cribs & other decorations depicting stories of Lord Krishna's childhood. There are five main "jhankis" of Janmashtami which depict the entire sequence of events from Lord Krishna's birth to his being discovered in Gokul .

The "jhankis" include the birth of Krishna in jail, Vasudev carrying Krishna to safety across the river Yamuna amidst thunder and lightning, Vasudev's return to the jail, Kansa killing Yashoda's daughter and finally the little Krishna in the cradle in Gokul. "Jhankis" are created out of dolls dressed up as kids, men and women with lehangas, chunnis, dhotis & kurtas. Raslila of every type are also performed - Janmlila, Shankarlila, Putnalila and Naglila. In the evening bhajans are sung which end at midnight, the auspicious moment when Lord Krishna was born. Thereafter arti is done, prasad distributed and flowers showered on the idol.

Onam

Onam is the national festival of Kerala. It is celebrated is during the month of August-September. The festival cherishes the memory of the legendary King Mahabali and his prosperous reign during which, perfect communal harmony and prosperity prevailed. It was a glorious period and people were happy. The King Mahabali's popularity was at its height and led to the envy of the Gods. This golden age ended when Vamana, the dwarf incarnation of Vishnu expelled him from his throne to the neitherlands. But Mahabali was allowed to visit his dear subjects once in a year.

He visits his dear Kingdom during the first Malayalam month of Chingam an occasion that fills the whole state with joy and merriment.Onam is also the harvest season. Nature is divinely beautiful and Kerala becomes lush green with the spring season. Flowers bloom in plenty and butterflies bring a rainbow of colour. The people decorating their houses with `Onapookalam´ or floral arrangements on floor to welcome Mahabali. A grand lunch with 21 curries and three types of sweet porridges or `payasam´ are prepared and enjoyed with fervour. Songs in praise of Mahabali and his golden reign are sung along with kaikottikali – danced by maidens in the household. Onam is is celebrated in ten day long festivities.Atham is the first day of celebrations and Thiruvonam is the grand finale. Uthradom, the day before Thiruvonam, is a day of great significance. From Atham to Thiruvonam, on all days, people make floral decoration in the front yard or verandah of their houses. The idol of Thrikkakara Appan (synonym of Mahabali) made of clay is placed in the middle of the floral decoration with utmost reverence and devotion.On Thiruvonam day special pujas are offered in temples early in the morning after which elder members of family will give presents to the younger members. All people of Kerala without exceptions celebrate Onam. The season is celebrated in the state with tourist festivals. The state Tourism organisations conduct various cultural events, shows, exhibitions, boat races, community feasts etc during this season. Onam is one of the oldest existing festivals of India.

The Harvest Festival

Onam, the harvest festival is the most popular festival of Kerala. A festival that celebrates a happy blend of myth and reality, Onam is part of the cultural repertoire of every Malayalee.
It brings back nostalgic memories, carried on the wings of folklore, of a bygone Utopian era of prosperity, equality and righteousness, under the golden reign of Mahabali. Year after year, for centuries, the people of Kerala, irrespective of caste, creed or colour, join together to welcome back their vanquished king.

The ten-day Onam festival falls in August-September, coinciding with the beginning of the harvest season.

The Legend

According to local belief, in a war that took place between the gods and the demons, the demons won. Deeply hurt by the defeat of the gods, Aditi, their mother prayed to Lord Vishnu to destroy Mahabali, the demon king.

Consequently, Lord Vishnu, in the guise of a Brahmin boy, Vamanan, went to Mahabali and asked him to grant him three steps of land. The wish was granted and Vamanan covered the whole land with his two steps and then he came back to the King asking him where can he place the third step.

The king to honour his word, offered his head as the third step. Vamanan pushed Mahabali deep down into the earth. Pleased by his honesty and generosity, the lord in turn granted him a wish that he could he could visit his kingdom and people on a particular day once a year.

The FestivityPreparation of a floral carpet called "Athappookkalam" in front of houses, from the first day of 'Atham' to the tenth day of 'Thiruvonam' is part of the festivities, which is a symbolic gesture to welcome King Mahabali.

The state government conducts Tourism Week celebrations in connection with Onam, showcasing the gems of Kerala's culture. Onam resonates with Carnivals, Boat Races, Dance, Music and Feast.

A sumptious meal on plantain leaf and the traditional sweet dish of Kerala 'Payasam' etc are served in every house The pomp and pageantry of Onam reflects the Keralite's zest for all the beautiful things of life.

Rituals

Onam is celebrated throughout Kerala; singing and merry making is its hallmark. Onam depicts the story of Mahabali the king who rules the country during a time of prosperity. He still visits Kerala annually to bless the people. The women dress up and decorate the entrance to their homes to welcome Mahabali. The whole state comes alive with festivity and activity. A time for prayers and ceremonies, a time to celebrate and rejoice, a time for fun and sports. A time for the snake boat festival.

ONAM AND SOUTH INDIA

Onam being celebrated in Tirupati also confirms the fact that Onam was popular in the southern region before becoming confined to Kerala after the 10th century AD.

Mangudy Marudanar, one of the noted poets of the Sangam Age, is said to have Commemoration Of A Glorious Past described the Onam celebrations in the Pandyan capital of Madurai in one of his poems. Onam has been around for a long time. Apparently it used to be celebrated during the Sangam period in the first few centuaries C.E. Onam festivities have been recorded during the time Kulasekhara Perumals (800 C.E.). Those were the days when Onam used to be a full month long

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER

Durga Puja, West Bengal :

Durga Puja in Bengal, Dassera and Navratri in other parts of India, celebrate the universal resurgence of the power of creation over destruction. It is the most popular festival in Bengal, celebrating the victory of Ma Durga over the buffalo demon and of good over evil. The festivities stretch over a period of ten days. The traditional image of the Bengali Durga follows the iconographic injunction of the Shastras. The tableau of Durga with her four children – Kartik, Ganesh, Saraswati and Lakshmi, representing respectively the Protector, the Initiator of the Puja, Knowledge and the provider – signifies the complete manifestation of the goddess.

The first recorded Durga Puja seems to have been celebrated by Bhabananda, the ancestor of Maharaja Krishnachandra of Nadia, in or about 1606. The family puja of the Sabarna Chouduris of Barisha dates back to 1610 – the oldest in Calcutta, and conducted even today in a highly traditional style.

Durga puja broke free from the pillared cortiles at Guptipara in Hugli District when twelve angry young men were stopped from taking part in a household puja. They formed a twelve-man committee, which held the first public or community Durga Puja by subscription. Hence such pujas came to be called baroari (baro – twelve yar – friend).

Navratri,Gujarat

Navratri, meaning 'nine nights', is an ancient and colourful festival. It honours the one Divine Shakti or Force which supports the entire universe, and is personified as the Mother Goddess. She protects her worshippers, destroys evil and grants boons to her children. The Mother Goddess has seven well - known forms, depending upon the special powers she manifests. Throughout Gujarat, Navratri is celebrated with joy and religious fevour.

This festival is essentially religious in nature. It is celebrated with true devotion in the various temples dedicated to the Mother, or Mataji, as she is familiarly called. In some homes, images of the Mother are worshipped in accordance with accepted practice. This is also true of the temples which usually have a constant stream of visitors from morning to night.

Another interesting feature of Navratri is the garba. a circular dance performed by women around an earthenware pot called a garbo , filled with water. A betel nut and a silver coin are placed within the pot, called a kumbh, on top of which a coconut has also been placed. As the dancers whirl around the pot, a singer and a drummer provide the musical accompaniment. The participants clap in a steady rhythm. Nowadays, loudspeakers are used to enhance the sound which grows to a crescendo. The dance usually starts slowly. It gets faster and faster as the music too gets more rapid, until the dance abruptly comes to a halt. There is a pause for a while and the dance commences once again, the singer leading with a new song.

Another dance which is also a feature of Navaratri is the dandia-ras or 'stick' dance, in which men and women join the dance circle, holding small polished sticks or dandias. As they whirl to the intoxicating rhythm of the dance, men and women strike the dandias together, adding to the joyous atmosphere. So popular are the garba and the dandia-ras that competitions are held to assess the quality of the dancing. Prizes are given to those judged to be the best. The costumes worn for the dances are traditional and alive with colour. The dances usually commence late in the night and continue until early morning, testifying to their great popularity.

OCTOBER-NOVEMBER

Kullu-Dussehra Festival,Himachal Pradesh

Kullu Valley, Himachal Pradesh. The annual mela or festival takes place in the Kullu Valley - also known as the Valley of the Living Gods, in North India. The festival celebrates the triumph of the God Ram over evil. The Rath Yatra of the idol of Lord Ragunath is led by the Kullu Raja and village deities, and is known as the running of the Gods. The procession starts a week of religious ceremonies, cultural activities, socializing and shopping at the huge bazaar, or market, that comprises most of the mela ground.Dussehra at Kullu commences on the tenth day of the rising moon, i.e. on 'Vijay Dashmi' day itself and continues in seven days. The birth of Dussehra in Kullu lay in royal fads and it nourished on religious, social and economic factors and ultimately came to be well established, because of the inborn love of the hill-men for fun, frolic, displayed in community singing and dancing. Numerous stalls offer a verity of local wares. This is also the time when the International Folk Festival is celebrated

A feast of Rhythm and Harmony :

On the first day the idol of Lord Raghunathji saddle on a gaily attired chariot and attended by village gods mounted in colourful planquins, is pulled from its fixed place in Dhalpur Maidan to another spot across the Maidan by Big ropes. The pulling of ropes is regarded sacred by the local people. This forms a huge procession. All the gods of the valley has to visit Kullu on Dussehra in order to pay homage to Raghunathji.

On the following days in the mornings and in the evenings the gods are invoked and paraded. The people remain busy buying, selling, singing and dancing during all the seven days of the festival, which concluded with the burning of the Lanka.

The chariot of Raghunathji is taken near the banks of Beas on the last day of the festival where a pile of wood grass is set on fire, which symbolises the burning of Lanka and is followed by the sacrifice of chosen animals.

The birth of Dussehra in Kullu lay in royal fads and it nourished on religious, social and economic factors and ultimately came to be well established, because of the inborn love of the hill-men for fun, frolic, displayed in community singing and dancing. Numerous stalls offer a verity of local wares. This is also the time when the International Folk Festival is celebrated .

Dussehra

On Dussehra Sri Ram killed the great demon Ravana, who had abducted Sri Ram's wife Sita to his kingdom of Lanka. Sri Ram was a great believer in the powers of Goddesss Durga, and He prayed to Her for nine days before He Himself entered the battlefield on the 10th day.
It is believed that Ravan had 10 faces. They are probably symbolic of the 10 evil facets of his character.

The word Dussehra comes from the word 'Dus' meaning 'Ten' and 'Hara', meaning 'annihilated'. So Dussehra is the day in which the 10 facets of Evil were destroyed.

One must not forget that Ravana was a great scholar and a tremendous worshipper of Lord Shiva. His weakness 'that of wanting to possess Sita' destroyed him. But you will be surprised to learn that His enmity and therefore obsession with Sri Ram fetched him Liberation. Hindu Scriptures claim that you may think of the Lord in whichever way you please, you may pray to Him, complain to Him, talk to Him, Fight with Him...Your obsession with Him will make you a candidate for a Release from the Wheel of Life and Death. It is clearly mentioned in the Scriptures that Sri Ram Himself could not wound Ravana while the latter had his mind fixed on Sri Ram. Ravana's destruction came in, the moment that his concentration was distracted.

On Dussehra day, people worship weapons. Mother Goddess has been worshipped during the preceeding Navratras and She is the Epitome of 'Fight against Evil'. Also, I believe that one worships weapons, to remember to use them in a wise manner.

On Dussehra day, it is customary to exchange leaves of the Apta tree. There is a story connected with the above custom.

Sri Ram’s ancestor relative’s name was king Raghu. He was very generous. After a great ‘Yagna’ (Prayer) the king had distributed all his wealth among the poor.

Raghu had nothing left to give a poor boy, who came to his door step asking for alms. Raghu attacked Kuber, the God of Wealth. As gold rained on earth, some of it fell on the Apta tree. Therefore, since then people exchange leaves of the Apta tree on Dussehra day.

In Bengal the occassion is celebrated as the day on which Durga Ma killed the terrible demon Mahishasur.

The essence is the same--the festival is celebrated all over India as a symbol of victory over evil.
Shall we also destroy our 10 faces of Hypocrisy and deceit, triumph over our negative tendencies and march forward in our flower bedecked cars towards Eternal Victory?
In Kulu Manali Dussehra is celebrated three days after the rest of the country does.

The reason: During ancient times the lesser powerful kings had to attend the celebration held at Maharaja Ranjit Singh's palace in Lahore. It used to take 3 days for the kings to return to their own kingdom to make merry during Dussehra .

Hampi Dance Festival,Karnataka

The magnificent ruined city of Hampi, Karnataka once the capital of the Vijayanagar Empire (One of the greatest empires in the history of India), comes alive during the lively festival of dance and music, held in the first week of November.Hampi holds many delightful surprises. The most famous is the King's Balance where kings were weighed against gold or money, which was then distributed to the poor.

Also worth a visit are the Queen's Bath with its arched corridors, projecting balconies and lotus shaped fountains, the two storeyed Lotus Mahal, the huge Elephant Stables, the splendid Vitthal Temple with its musical pillars and the Stone Chariot, the Virupaksha Temple, Ugra Narasimha, the 6.7 meters tall monolith, the Pushkarini Tank, the Mahanavami Dibba, etc. Virupaksha temple is still in use.Vishu is one of the most popular festivals of Kerala. Vishu falls on the first of Medam (March-April), which is the Malayalam New Year's Day. Since it is considered propitious to view good things on this day for year round good fortune, Vishu morning is an important time. The heart of this festival of Kerala is the preparation of the kani (the lucky sight or gift).

Organized by the Government of Karnataka, the Hampi festival includes Dance, drama, music, fireworks; puppet shows and spectacular processions, all combine to recreate the grandeur of the bygone era.The magnificent ruined city of Hampi, 353 kilometres from Bangalore, Karnataka once the capital of the Vijayanagar Empire (One of the greatest empires in the history of India), comes alive during the lively festival of dance and music, held in the first week of November.

The Vijaynagar city ruins near the village of Hampi are one of the most fascinating historical sites in South India. It has ruins of stone temples, elephant stables, barracks and palaces. Temples of this city are noted for their large dimensions, florid ornamentation, bold and delicate carvings, stately pillars, and magnificent pavilions. Most of the site is early 16th century, built during the 20-year reign of the great Vijayanagar ruler, Krishna Deva Raya (1509 -1529). Hampi holds many delightful surprises. The most famous is the King's Balance where kings were weighed against gold or money which was then distributed to the poor. Also worth a visit are the Queen's Bath with its arched corridors, projecting balconies and lotus shaped fountains, the two storied Lotus Mahal, the huge Elephant Stables, the splendid Vitthal Temple with its musical pillars and the Stone Chariot, the Virupaksha Temple, Ugra Narasimha, the 6.7 meters tall monolith, the Pushkarini Tank, the Mahanavami Dibba, etc. Virupaksha temple is still in use. Organized by the Government of Karnataka, the Hampi festival includes Dance, drama, music, fireworks, puppet shows, spectacular processions, all combine to recreate the grandeur of the bygone era.

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER

Sonpur Cattle Fair, Bihar

According to the 1913 Bihar and Orissa Pilgrim Committee, a fair has been described as the following.

A "fair" is a place where pilgrims congregate in numbers on one or more occasions only during the year: frequently the attractions are secular as well as religious and only in rare instances do people come in numbers from long distances. Such places are, as a rule, but sparsely populated throughout the rest of the year, the only permanent residents being a few faqirs or the people of a small village.

Melas or fairs in Bihar are a common sight. The big fairs in Bihar include the melas of Rajgir near Patna, mela in Patna city, the melas in Jahanabad, in Gaya, Buxar and Sasaram in Shahabad, Revelganj in Saran, Bettiah in Champaran, Sitamarhi, Darbhanga and of course the Sonepur mela. The sonepur mela is the most famous and the oldest not only in Bihar but probably the whole of Asia.

It was here at Sonepur in 1888, the first meeting of the “Indian Association of Cow Protection” seminar took place. It was here at the Sonepur mela (mela in Hindi) that the freedom fighter Veer Kunwar Singh took the occasion of the assembly to actively recruit and inspire the people for fighting against the British imperialism both before and during the First Indian was of Independence in 1857. The cover of Sonepur mela led to the main launch of the struggle movement against the British in Bihar. The Provincial Congress Committee of Bihar and the Bihar Kisan Sabha (Farmers union) also used this mela and the gathering as a recruitment ground. That is why Sonepur mela was considered a political hotbed during the colonial rule by the British and kept a watchful eye.

Sonepur fair in Bihar, India has its origins during ancient times. This is where Chandragupta Maurya used to buy elephants and horses across the river Ganges from Patliputra (Patna of ancient times). Now Sonepur mela is one of the biggest and the world’s greatest fair. It takes place annually, 35 kilometres from Patna, the capital of Bihar. Sonepur mela is held for 21 days in the month of November (from around 5-6th) at the junction of the rivers, Ganga and Gandak. It even has a legendary tale attached to it. Many believe that a struggle took place at this spot in Sonepur between the ruler of Gandharva, Huhu and Indraya muni; ultimately Lord Vishnu helping the weaker latter. That is why there is a vast gathering of devotees gathered at the confluence for the two holy rivers for the blessed dip at the adjacent “Harihar Nath temple” on the full moon day (Kartik Purnima). Many believe that Lord Ram established the temple on his way to Lanka. The locals regard that a dip here at this confluence of the 2 rivers is equivalent to giving away of 100 cows. However, it now attracts people from all geographical and religious diversity from the Punjab and Kashmir to Bhutan and Kerala. During the British Raj, merchants from Afghanistan and Britain used to attend.

Sonepur mela is the Asia’s and probably one of the worlds largest cattle fair. No other mela in Bihar can boast about the crowds it attracts whether it’s Diwali, Chhath, Sivaratri, Ramnavami, Kartik Purnima, Janmashthami, Holi or Durga puja.

Nearly all animals brought here for sale include all breeds of dogs to camels to buffaloes, donkeys, ponies, monkeys, chimps, Persian horses, sheep, rabbits, bears, cats, and guinea pigs. All varieties of birds, poultry and fishes are also available. The Sonepur mela specialises in the sale of every type of bird and animal, big or small.This is only place in the world that sells elephants in large numbers. Handicrafts, paintings and pottery not only from famous Madhubani but all over India can be seen here. All varieties of horticulture can be admired; this is a particular feast for the people of Bihar as it’s a major opportunity to enhance their gardens. Temporary shops selling household goods, local and branded clothing and commercial merchandise are also up for sale. At the Sonepure mela one can buy almost anything. Not to forget the food lovers, it’s absolutely divine. In recent years, government and several companies have started installing their shops to promote their products and services.

It even runs health camps for the wellbeing of animals specially elephants. Animal farmers, circus entertainers, traders and individuals come for a bargain. Some come for the sheer entertainment and a family day out that it provides.

Getting to Sonepur mela:

Air: Take a flight to Patna airport and book in a hotel. Some good hotels include;

Rail: Alternatively get to Patna Station

Kala ghoda fair mumbai

ONE NIGHT SUCCESSIVE SUNDAY Every Sunday From November to February

Exhibiting The World Of Arts

The Kala Ghoda Fair is a celebration of arts and crafts held on every Sunday from November to January. This fair is held in Mumbai near the Jehangir Art Gallery.

Kala Ghoda, the much touted art district of the city, brings together the works of artistes in the fields of music, dance, theatre, film, and of course art offering an interactive cultural mélange for Mumbaites.

The Kala Ghoda Association was established in 1988, with the aim of improving the existing infrastructure of the area, and giving it a distinct identity as Mumbai's art district. The Kala Ghoda fair also hopes to be a catalyst for the revival of art across Mumbai.

Activity At Mumbai's Art District

The area is transformed into a pedestrian plaza where one can treat himself to a rare experience. Walk past aesthetically designed kiosks, take an eyeful of portrait painters recreating one's image artistically, watch a master potter breathe life into clay, set one's palms aglow with traditional mehendi or adorn your arms with exotic bangles made specially for you.

Hear the history of the various art forms passed down through generations from the master craftsmen, who are only too willing and enthusiastic to narrate. Browse through book shops and music shops, watch a parrot unfold your future, hold your breath for the tightrope walker, get enchanted by the magician, see the puppeteer pulling strings or just pause beneath the leafy boughs of a banyan tree, and let the atmosphere seep in.

One can treat oneself to the varied cuisine that Maharashtra offers, savor a traditional Parsi breakfast or walk into the famous Max Mueller Bhavan and feast one's senses on a collection of award winning Indian films.

As the sun begins to inch towards the Arabian sea, and shadows lengthen into the cool evenings, get ready for a heady mix of folk dancers, musicians and singers. The venues for the activities are the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), the David Sasson Library Garden, the Jehangir Art Gallery, among others within the area. The sights, sounds, rhythm, beat and love of rural India take centre-stage. The lights twinkle on every branch and it's time to head for home.

Diwali,

Diwali is a five day Hindu festival which occurs on the fifteenth day of Kartika. Diwali means "rows of lighted lamps" and the celebration is often referred to as the Festival of Lights. During this time, homes are thoroughly cleaned and windows are opened to welcome Laksmi, goddess of wealth. Candles and lamps are lit as a greeting to Laksmi. Gifts are exchanged and festive meals are prepared during Diwali. The celebration means as much to Hindus as Christmas does to Christians.

Because there are many regions in India, there are many manifestations of the Diwali festival. In at least one area, the festival begins with Dhanteras, a day set aside to worship Laksmi. In the Indian culture, wealth is not viewed as a corruptive power. Instead, a wealthy person is considered to have been rewarded for good deeds of a past life.

On the second day Kali, the goddess of Strength, is worshipped. This day also focuses on abolishing laziness and evil.

On the third day (the last day of the year in the lunar calendar), lamps are lighted and shine brightly in every home. The lamp symbolizes knowledge and encourages reflection upon the purpose of each day in the festival. The goal is to remember the purpose throughout the year.
The fourth day of Diwali falls on the first day of the lunar New Year. At this time, old business accounts are settled and new books are opened. The books are worshipped in a special ceremony and participants are encouraged to remove anger, hate, and jealousy from their lives.
On the final day (Balipratipada) of the festival, Bali, an ancient Indian king, is recalled. Bali destroyed the centuries old philosophies of the society. However, in addition to this, he is remembered for being a generous person. Thus, the focus of this day is to see the good in others, including enemies.

Because there is no one universally accepted Hindu calendar, this holiday may be celebrated on a different date in some parts of India, but it always falls in the months of October or November.
Pushikar fair,

Pushkar is a delightful little lakeside village, only 11 km from Ajmer, bordered by the Nag Pahar or the Snake Mountain, and the edge of the Thar Desert.At the Full Moon of Kartik Poornima each year, almost 200,000 people flock to Pushkar, bringing with them 50,000 heads of cattle, for several days of pilgrimage,camel racing and colourful festivities.The Government of Rajasthan has been promoting this Fair as an internationalattraction by adding colourful folk dances,the music of the itinerant "BHIL" and "LANGA" minstrels and other cultural events and by putting up a large tent city,complete with all modern amenities for foreign visitors.Over the years,the Pushkar Fair has become a big draw internationally.

Qutub Festival,Delhi

Located at the Southern part of the city of Delhi, Qutab Minar is a five storey tower made of red sandstone. It is wide near the base but tapers towards the top. The hallmark of Qutab Minar is that it is the tallest free-standing stone tower in the world. With an imposing height of 76.2 m, it is indeed an awe-inspiring piece of architecture. The tower was the brain-child of Afghan invader Qutub-ud-din-Aibak and he built the foundation of the monument. From then onward, the monument has been witness to many an event in the history of India and it also has documented in its own unique way, changes of historical importance.

Today all out effort is being made to salvage this historical monument from the ravages of history. During the month of November-December a 3-day festival is organized on the premises of Qutab Minar. The festival is meant to highlight the magnificent monument. Showcasing the finest cultural art forms in the country, the festival brings this historical monument at the forefront of national and international importance. World famous artists perform at this beautiful festival and people from all over the world come here to enjoy it.

The festival is not only an attempt to restore the heritage monument, it also helps in the preservation of classical Indian art and tradition. Some of the greatest performers in India perform here every year. The festival is surely going to be an experience that you will not forget in a hurry.

Ananya,Delhi

Set amidst the historical background of the Qutub Minar, a number of cultural events are held as a part of the festival. Veterans of India classical music and folk dance give spectacular performances. There are Kuchipudi, Odissi, Manipuri, and various classical dance performances by famous artistes from all over the nation. Sarangi and sitar recitals mesmerize the audience, while ghazals and qawwalis mark the end of the festival. Artistes like the illustrious three generations of the Sarabhai family, Mrinalini, Mallika and Anahita Sarabhai, as well as ghazal maestros Ustaad Ahmad Hussain and Ustaad Mohammad Hussein are amongst the many stalwarts who have made the festival a memorable one. The regional food stalls at the complex add a local flavour to the evening with cuisine from Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and The North-Eastern states.

DECEMBER- JANUARY

Hornbill Festival, Nagaland

People everywhere tend to stereotype the inhabitants of other countries when they think of them. It’s not a demeaning or racist practice so much as it is a natural human short cut. When people think of Italy, most of them imagine dark-haired people, forgetting the blond descendants of the Germanic Langobards (“long beards”) that form a substantial part of that country’s northern part.

In China (see this month’s article, “Indigenous China), most people visualize the majority Han Chinese, forgetting that the vast country has scores of non-Han ethnic groups, including Central Asian Caucasian tribesmen.

And so it is with India. Though many of us tend to think of Indians as a homogenous-looking people, their nation of 1 billion is home to dozens of different nations, ethnicities and tribes. This is especially true at the country’s far reaches, such as its eastern state of Nagaland on the Burmese border, a verdant, hilly land that varies from subtropical forests to 12,000-foot mountains.

The state boasts 16 major tribes, all of them as distantly related to India’s dominant Aryans as Japan’s aboriginal Ainu are to the dominant Japanese. In other words, very distant. The names of the tribes are not ones you’ll encounter in a typical recitation of Indian ethnic groups: the Angamis, the Aos, the Chakhesangs, the Konyaks, the Kukis, the Kacharis, the Sumis, the Changs, the Lothas, the Pochurys in October. All the tribes are noted for their penchant for celebrating at the drop of a hat, and Nagaland’s calendar is filled with various tribal fests throughout the year.

Fortunately, India is a land that, despite its occasional outbreaks of inter-ethnic struggle, is incredibly proud of its diversity. In 2000, Nagaland’s government decided to have all of the state’s tribes engage in a common festival. Thus was born the Hornbill Festival, which is celebrated the week of December 1 in the city of Kohima.

Named after the hornbill, a universally respected bird that shows up in the folklore of most of the state’s tribes, the eight-day festival brings them all together in one giant color-splashed hodgepodge of dances, performances, crafts, parades, games, sports, food fairs and religious ceremonies. The festival both exposes tribal people to their “over-the-yonder-hill” counterparts and reinforces Nagaland’s identity as a distinct state in India’s federal union.

While Nagaland is not a mainstream Indian tourist destination, it offers a range of accommodations from spare and simple to deluxe.

Tansen Samaroh,Gwalior

The great classical vocalist, Miyan Tansen, was one of the ‘nine jewels’ in Emperor Akbar’s court. His memorial, in Gwalior, is a classic representation of Mughal architecture. It is also the venue of the annual Indian classical festival held in November. Renowned singers of the land regale audiences with five mesmerising sessions of the much-loved classical ragas. An interesting fact is that performers, before the sessions begin, chew the leaves of a tamarind tree by the tomb. This is believed to make the voice better.

Konark Dance Festival, Orissa

Renowned dancers from all parts of the country assemble here and give fabulous performances.Konark dance festival is celebrated every year at the open air auditorium of the sun temple at Konark. The festival is a three to seven day long occasion which is usually hosted in the month of December. It is during this festivity time that the place draws huge crowds every year. Eminent dancers come from different parts of the country to witness this grand extravaganza and be a part of the festive celebration. On the occasion of Konark dance festival, one gets the opportunity to catch the glimpses of the various dance forms of India. It provides a platform where you get to witness unity in diversity, which is reflected in the varied dance performances taking place in the same parlance. For dance lovers, Konark dance festival is a long awaited occasion. The major dance performances are Odissi, Bharathnatyam, Manipuri, and Kathak. It is one of the most enthralling experiences to see the diverse cultural performances of our country blending with each other. On this grand dance show, craft mela and food mela is also conducted. The food Mela provides you with the specialized delicacies of each region, thereby giving you an insight into the diverse culture of India. The craft Mela displays the fine ethnic craftsmanship of the artists. The venue of the dance festival, i.e. the sun temple at Konark is in itself an architectural marvel. The festivity provides you with the best of all, delicacies, dances, arts and crafts and sightseeing and this is what makes the whole experience of visiting the sun temple during the dance festival fascinating and memorable.

Dhanur masam-Marghazhi

The month Marghazhi (December-January) derives its name from the star Mrigasirsha occurring on or immediately after the month’s Pournami. It is also known as Dhanur masa since during this month the sun transits through Dhanur rasi. Vedas and agamas say mornings in this month are ideal for worship of the Lord. Krishna underlines its special nature by saying in Bhagavad Gita that among months he is Marghazhi. In temples all over India during this month there is special pre-dawn worship. Since this month is set apart for worship, marriages and other such functions are not performed in Marghazhi. The shaivite composition Thiruvembavai and the vaishnavite Thiruppavai are particularly recited during this month.

Christmas

History reveals that Christmas, New Year, etc... all originated in Babylon as festivals celebrated by the Heathen in honour of their Pagan Gods, but were given "christian" meaning by the Catholic Church in order to convert the idol worshippers to Constantine's new "Christian" religion. The Catholic Church simply took these seasonal feasts and festivals celebrated by the heathen and transformed them into 'Christian' celebrations or "Christianized" them in order to make christianity more meaningful to pagan converts.

They came to focus their eyes upon Jesus the infant and Mary His Mother. Many people were coming to the notion that his birthday should be observed. This idea came about as the "Church" began to regard Mary, the mother of Jesus in a new light. She had long been revered along with the saints and Apostles, but only along with them. But in the same fourth century she emerges as the Queen of Heaven. The christmas story of the Birth of Jesus has marked an era of time, recording ends and beginnings as years glide into centuries, and centuries into millennia.Come to the basic of Christmas with reference to The Holy Bible. The basic story occupies hardly a page of the Bible which is divided into two sections the 'OLD' and 'NEW TESTAMENTS'

The old Testament contains many prophecies, one of them speaking of a redeemer who would bring back people to God and give them complete salvation. According to the Christians the birth and life of Jesus is the fulfillment of this prophecyMathew 5:17 says "Do not think that I have come to do away with the Law of Moses and the teachings of the prophets. I have not come to do away with them,but to make their teachings come true".

The birth of Jesus Christ explained like this. "His Mother Mary was engaged to Joseph, but before they were married, she found out that she was going to have a baby by the Holyspirit. Joseph was a man who always did what was right, but he did not want to disgrace Mary publicly; so made plans to break the engagement privately. While he was thinking about this, an Angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph, descendant of David, do not be afraid to take Mary to be your wife, for it is by the Holy spirit that she has conceived. she will have a son, and you will name him JESUS because he will save his people from their sins".

Now all this happened in order to make what the Lord had said through the prophet come true, "a virgin will become pregnant and have a son, and he will be called Immanuel" (which means, "God is with us").Mathew (1:18:23).

Eid

Muslim Celebration

Muslims have two major celebrations in the year. Both are called Eid (meaning celebration). Eid Al-Fitr, or the Celebration of Breaking the Fast, marks the end of Ramadan. Ramadan is the month of fasting.

Eid Al-Fitr is the celebration that comes at the end of Ramadan. Ramadan is a month of fasting, every day from dawn until sunset. The Islamic Calendar follows the moon and so each year, the dates are shifted forwards by about eleven days in the normal calendar. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Muslim year, and is followed by Shawal. The first three days of Shawal

What it is

Eid Al-Fitr is all about celebrating the good things that we have received, God’s (Allah’s) bounty and our family and friends. Every household who can afford it must pay a form of tax in the days leading up to Eid. It is a very small amount, and is paid for each person in the family.

Traditionally the tax was in the form of food, although most people now give the equivalent in money. The money or food is given to poor people, so that they can celebrate Eid, too. The tax is not collected by anyone, and no one is forced to pay it, but it is required as a religious act, and almost everyone pays.

The Celebration

Many people decorate their houses for Eid. This is rather an odd thing, since no-one is sure when Eid is, until the last minute, and so decorations are put up very late on the last day of the month.

Everyone has new clothes for Eid. The last few nights of Ramadan it is almost impossible to get into the shops, as everyone is buying their clothes. A complete outfit is normal, right down to the shoes, and even the headscarves for the women.

On the morning of Eid, everyone gets up very early to go to the prayers. These are special prayers, held only at Eid. They are held only in very big mosques, or in large open areas, such as football stadiums. They are held about 80 minutes after sunrise, so in the summer months it is very early.

After the prayers everyone goes home to eat breakfast and then the celebrations really begin. It isn’t common for children to receive gifts. Instead they receive money. The money should be in the form of a brand new bank note or coins. The amount given is small, usually in the region of about $3, but still they get plenty. Everyone who visits the children, or everyone whom they visit, gives then the gift of money. In a large extended family, with lots of friends, the children can end up with a small fortune!

Sometime around midmorning people start to go out visiting. They visit neighbors and friends in the morning. At each visit special cakes are eaten, and the children receive their money. The visits are very short as there are plenty to make. Dinner is spent with family. The traditional meal varies from country to country, the only standard thing being the special cakes. Each day of the holiday is spent with a different branch of the family, so that everyone gets visited. In the evening the visits start up again. This goes on for three days, but money is normally only given to the children on the first two days.

In between visiting, people make trips out into the streets. Many streets have a sort of fair going, with music, dancing, fireworks, kids' games and much more. Here the children get to spend their money. They buy candy, soft drinks, toys and rides. Everyone has great fun, and the children are always disappointed when it is over. The adults, on the other hand, are usually worn out and glad of the rest!

Ramzan

About Ramzan Id

Coming with the new moon, the festival marks the end of 'Ramadan' - a month when Muslims fast throughout the day and eat only at night Prayers, feasts and family get- together are the major highlights of the celebrations. It was during this month that the holy Koran was revealed. Eid means recurring happiness or festivity. Eid is celebrated in India with much enthusiasm and fervor and Muslims from all strata of life can be seen adorned in beautiful new clothes, visiting the mosques to attend Salatul Eid (Eid prayers). Greetings of "Eid-Mubarak" or "a blessed Eid" are exchanged.

A very important aspect of eid is the charity, which all the Muslims are expected to extend to the needy. Earlier, this was in the form of gifts in kind but now cash is given to the needy. The first Eid of the year is known as "Eid Al Fitr". Al Fitr literally means breaking of fast. Thus Eid Al Fitr is celebrated on the first day of Shawaal, the tenth month in the Muslim calendar, to mark the end of a month long fast during the month of Ramadan. As the third "pillar" or religious obligation of Islam, fasting has many special benefits. Among these, the most important is that it is a means of learning self-control. Due to the lack of preoccupation with the satisfaction of bodily appetites during the daylight hours of fasting, a measure of ascendancy is given to one's spiritual nature, which becomes a means of coming closer to Allah. Ramadan is also a time of concentrated worship, reading of the Quran, purifying one's behavior, giving charity and doing virtuous deeds.

The secondary objective of fasting is a way of experiencing hunger and developing compassion for the less fortunate, and learn to be thankful and appreciative for all of God's bounties. Fasting is also advantageous to the health and provides a break in the cycle of rigid habits.
Eid Al Fitr is a day of joy and thanksgiving. On this day, Muslims show their joy for the health, strength and opportunities of life, which Allah has given them to fulfill their obligations of fasting and other good deeds during the month of Ramadan. It is considered unholy to fast on this day. It is also a day of forgetting old grudges and ill feelings towards other fellow men. The second important Eid celebration is called "Eid Al-Adha".

Although only the pilgrims in Makkah can participate in the Hajj fully, all the other Muslims in the world join with them by celebrating Eid Al-Adha, or "Celebration of Sacrifice." On the 10th day of Dhul-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar, Muslims around the world celebrate this feast of commitment, obedience and self-sacrifice to Allah. They wear their nicest clothing and attend Salatul-Eid (Eid Prayer) in the morning. This is followed by a short sermon, after which everyone socializes. Next, people visit each other's homes and partake in festive meals with special dishes, beverages, and desserts. Children receive gifts and sweets on this happy occasion. In addition, like the pilgrims in Makkah, the Muslims, who can afford to do so, offer domestic animals, usually sheep, as a symbol of Ibrahim's sacrifice. The meat is distributed for consumption to family, friends, and to the poor and needy. Prayers are offered in mosques and Idgahs and elaborate festivities are held.