They say we should celebrate life, not just festivals. In a country like India, life and festivals go hand in hand. With an abundance of celebrations throughout the year, each festival reflects the country's rich culture and traditions. Breaking the monotony of daily life, these festivals bring waves of excitement and joy. Whether it's the arrival of spring or the harvesting of crops, there's always a reason to celebrate in India. Experiencing these festivals is like celebrating life itself, filled with colors, music, dance, folk songs, food, and camaraderie.
Each festival in India offers a unique essence and flavor that must be experienced firsthand. Let's delve into 45 of the most popular national festivals celebrated across India in 2024, exploring their significance, which communities celebrate them, and how they are celebrated.
1. Diwali
When: October-November
Significance: Diwali, or Deepavali, is the spectacular Festival of Lights celebrated across India. This autumn festival marks the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over Ravana, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Celebrations: Homes are decorated with candles, lamps, and lights. People burst crackers, exchange gifts and sweets, and perform Lakshmi Puja. Diwali's new moon night is illuminated with sparkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere. The festival involves elaborate preparations, including cleaning homes, decorating with rangoli, and wearing new clothes. Special prayers and offerings are made to Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. The exchange of sweets and gifts strengthens bonds among friends and family. The bursting of fireworks signifies the joy and excitement associated with the festival.
Who Celebrates: Diwali is primarily celebrated by Hindus across India, but it is also enjoyed by Jains, Sikhs, and some Buddhists.
2. Holi
When: February-March
Significance: Known as the festival of colors and love, Holi celebrates the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil, symbolized by the burning of the demoness Holika.
Celebrations: People light bonfires on the eve of Holi, and the next day, they smear each other with vibrant colors. Water guns and balloons filled with colored water add to the fun, along with traditional sweets and the famous bhang thandai. Holi is a time of joyous celebration, with people coming together to play with colors and indulge in festive foods. The festival promotes a sense of unity and brotherhood, transcending social and cultural barriers. The playful atmosphere and vibrant colors create an unforgettable experience for participants.
Who Celebrates: Holi is primarily celebrated by Hindus, but it is also enjoyed by people of various communities across India.
3. Navratri
When: October-November
Significance: Navratri, meaning "nine nights," is a Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Shakti in her various forms.
Celebrations: The festival features nine nights of dancing, especially Garba and Dandiya Raas, and prayers. People dress in colorful traditional attire and celebrate with fervor, particularly in Gujarat and Maharashtra. Each night is dedicated to a different form of the goddess, and devotees observe fasts, perform rituals, and participate in devotional songs and dances. The vibrant Garba and Dandiya dances, performed in large groups, create a lively and festive atmosphere. Navratri is a time of spiritual reflection and celebration of feminine energy.
Who Celebrates: Navratri is celebrated by Hindus across India, with particularly vibrant celebrations in Gujarat, Maharashtra, and West Bengal.
4. Durga Puja
When: October-November
Significance: Durga Puja is a major Bengali festival celebrating the victory of Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura.
Celebrations: Huge clay idols of Goddess Durga are worshipped in elaborately decorated pandals. The festival includes cultural performances, feasting, and culminates with the immersion of the idols in water. Durga Puja is a time of grand celebrations, with people visiting pandals to admire the artistic decorations and participate in rituals. The festival also features traditional music, dance, and drama performances, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Bengal. The immersion of the idols in water signifies the departure of the goddess and the conclusion of the festivities.
Who Celebrates: Durga Puja is primarily celebrated by Bengalis and other communities in West Bengal, Odisha, Assam, Tripura, and Bihar. It is also observed by some Hindus across India.
5. Dussehra
When: October-November
Significance: Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, marks the end of Navratri and celebrates Lord Rama's victory over Ravana and Goddess Durga's triumph over Mahishasura.
Celebrations: The festival features the enactment of Ramlila and the burning of giant effigies of Ravana. In Mysore, the celebration includes a grand procession with decorated elephants and illuminated palaces. Dussehra is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India, with each region adding its unique flavor to the festivities. The burning of effigies symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and serves as a reminder of the importance of righteousness. The elaborate processions and cultural events create a festive and joyous atmosphere.
Who Celebrates: Dussehra is celebrated by Hindus all over India, with grand celebrations in states like Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh.
6. Janmashtami
When: August-September
Significance: Janmashtami celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu.
Celebrations: Devotees fast, sing devotional songs, and participate in night vigils. Mathura and Vrindavan, associated with Krishna's life, see grand celebrations with plays and dances depicting Krishna's life. Janmashtami is marked by the performance of various rituals and prayers, including the decoration of Krishna idols and the preparation of special sweets. The festival also includes the breaking of the Dahi Handi, where participants form human pyramids to reach and break a pot filled with yogurt. The joyous celebrations and devotional activities create a spiritually uplifting experience for devotees.
Who Celebrates: Janmashtami is primarily celebrated by Hindus, especially in North India and Maharashtra.
7. Ganesh Chaturthi
When: August-September
Significance: Ganesh Chaturthi marks the birth of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles.
Celebrations: The festival includes installing clay Ganesha idols in homes and public places, performing prayers, and immersing the idols in water after ten days. Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with great fervor, particularly in Maharashtra, where elaborate pandals are set up to house the idols. The festival includes daily prayers, offerings, and cultural performances. The immersion of the idols in water symbolizes the return of Lord Ganesha to his heavenly abode and is accompanied by lively processions and chanting of devotional songs.
Who Celebrates: Ganesh Chaturthi is primarily celebrated by Hindus, with particularly grand celebrations in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.
8. Eid-ul-Fitr
When: Varies based on the lunar calendar
Significance: Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting in Islam.
Celebrations: Muslims offer prayers, feast with family and friends, give alms to the needy, and exchange gifts. Markets and mosques are beautifully decorated for the occasion. Eid-ul-Fitr is a time of joy and thanksgiving, with Muslims expressing gratitude for the strength and patience shown during Ramadan. The festival includes special prayers at mosques, followed by feasting on a variety of traditional dishes and sweets. The giving of alms, known as Zakat, emphasizes the importance of charity and helping those in need.
Who Celebrates: Eid-ul-Fitr is celebrated by Muslims across India.
When: December 25
Significance: Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.
Celebrations: The festival includes attending midnight mass, decorating Christmas trees, exchanging gifts, and feasting with loved ones. Goa is particularly known for its vibrant Christmas celebrations. Christmas is celebrated with great enthusiasm by Christians and non-Christians alike, with homes and streets adorned with lights and decorations. The festival includes singing carols, baking festive treats, and spending time with family and friends. The spirit of giving and sharing is central to the celebrations, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere.
Who Celebrates: Christmas is primarily celebrated by Christians, but it is also enjoyed by people of various communities across India.
10. Maha Shivratri
When: February-March
Significance: Maha Shivratri honors Lord Shiva and symbolizes overcoming ignorance and darkness in life.
Celebrations: Devotees fast, meditate, chant prayers, and worship the Shiva Linga. Temples dedicated to Lord Shiva hold night-long vigils and special prayers. Maha Shivratri is a time of deep spiritual reflection and devotion, with devotees observing strict fasts and performing various rituals. The festival includes the offering of Bilva leaves, milk, and honey to the Shiva Linga, along with continuous chanting of Shiva mantras. The night-long vigil and prayers create a spiritually charged atmosphere, fostering a sense of inner peace and enlightenment.
Who Celebrates: Maha Shivratri is celebrated by Hindus across India.
When: August
Significance: Raksha Bandhan celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters.
Celebrations: Sisters tie a rakhi (sacred thread) on their brothers' wrists, and brothers give gifts in return. The festival signifies the promise of protection and care. Raksha Bandhan is a time of familial bonding and affection, with siblings expressing their love and commitment to each other. The festival includes the preparation of special sweets and delicacies, along with the exchange of gifts and heartfelt wishes. The tying of the rakhi symbolizes the unbreakable bond between siblings and the promise of support and protection.
Who Celebrates: Raksha Bandhan is primarily celebrated by Hindus, but it is also observed by Jains and some Sikhs.
12. Onam
When: August-September
Significance: Onam is Kerala's harvest festival, commemorating the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali.
Celebrations: The festival includes flower carpets (Pookalam), traditional dances, boat races, and the grand Onasadya feast. Onam is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy, with people participating in various cultural and sporting events. The festival includes the preparation of elaborate feasts, featuring a variety of traditional dishes served on banana leaves. The flower carpets, boat races, and traditional dances add to the festive spirit, creating a vibrant and colorful atmosphere.
Who Celebrates: Onam is primarily celebrated by Hindus in Kerala.
13. Baisakhi
When: April
Significance: Baisakhi marks the Punjabi New Year and the harvest of rabi crops.
Celebrations: People celebrate with Bhangra and Gidda dances, visit gurdwaras, and enjoy community feasts. Baisakhi is a time of joy and thanksgiving, with people expressing gratitude for the bountiful harvest. The festival includes various cultural performances, along with the preparation and sharing of traditional Punjabi dishes. The celebrations also include visits to gurdwaras, where people offer prayers and participate in community meals (langar). The lively dances and festive atmosphere create a sense of unity and togetherness.
Who Celebrates: Baisakhi is primarily celebrated by Sikhs and Punjabis.
14. Gurpurab
When: November
Significance: Gurpurab commemorates the birth of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism.
Celebrations: The festival includes processions, singing hymns, and community meals (langar) at gurdwaras. Gurpurab is a time of spiritual reflection and devotion, with Sikhs paying homage to Guru Nanak's teachings and principles. The festival includes special prayers and readings from the Guru Granth Sahib, along with the distribution of Karah Prasad (a sweet offering). The processions and community meals foster a sense of unity and service, emphasizing the importance of selflessness and compassion.
Who Celebrates: Gurpurab is primarily celebrated by Sikhs.
When: January
Significance: Makar Sankranti marks the sun's transition into Capricorn, signaling the end of the winter solstice.
Celebrations: The festival features kite flying, bonfires, and traditional sweets made of sesame and jaggery. Makar Sankranti is celebrated with great enthusiasm, particularly in northern India, where kite flying is a major highlight. The festival includes various rituals and customs, such as taking a dip in holy rivers and offering prayers to the sun. The preparation and sharing of traditional sweets, such as tilgul (sesame and jaggery) and chikki (peanut brittle), add to the festive spirit. The festival marks the beginning of longer days and the arrival of spring, creating a sense of renewal and hope.
Who Celebrates: Makar Sankranti is primarily celebrated by Hindus across India, with regional variations.
When: January
Significance: Lohri celebrates the end of winter and the harvesting of sugarcane crops in Punjab.
Celebrations: People light bonfires, sing folk songs, dance, and enjoy festive foods. Lohri is a time of joy and celebration, with families and communities coming together to mark the end of the winter season. The festival includes the lighting of bonfires, around which people gather to sing traditional songs and perform folk dances. The sharing of festive foods, such as popcorn, peanuts, and sweets made from jaggery, adds to the festive atmosphere. The bonfire symbolizes warmth and the dispelling of darkness, creating a sense of hope and renewal.
Who Celebrates: Lohri is primarily celebrated by Punjabis, particularly Sikhs and Hindus.
17. Pongal
When: January
Significance: Pongal is a harvest festival celebrated in Tamil Nadu, thanking the Sun God and nature.
Celebrations: The festival includes cooking the sweet dish pongal, decorating homes with kolam, and traditional dances. Pongal is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm, with people expressing gratitude for the bountiful harvest. The festival includes various rituals and customs, such as boiling rice with milk and jaggery in a clay pot and allowing it to overflow, symbolizing abundance and prosperity. The decoration of homes with colorful kolam (rangoli) patterns and the performance of traditional dances add to the festive spirit. Pongal is a time of joy and thanksgiving, with families and communities coming together to celebrate and share their blessings.
Who Celebrates: Pongal is primarily celebrated by Hindus in Tamil Nadu.
18. Easter
When: March-April
Significance: Easter celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Celebrations: Christians attend church services, decorate Easter eggs, exchange gifts, and feast with family and friends. Easter is a time of joy and celebration, with Christians expressing gratitude for the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The festival includes various rituals and customs, such as attending church services, singing hymns, and decorating Easter eggs. The preparation and sharing of festive foods, such as hot cross buns and Easter lamb, add to the celebratory atmosphere. Easter is also a time of renewal and hope, symbolizing the triumph of life over death.
Who Celebrates: Easter is primarily celebrated by Christians across India.
When: June-July
Significance: Hemis is a religious festival in Ladakh honoring Lord Padmasambhava, founder of Tibetan Tantric Buddhism.
Celebrations: The festival features Cham dances by monks, traditional music, and elaborate costumes and masks. Hemis is a time of spiritual reflection and celebration, with monks performing various rituals and dances to honor Lord Padmasambhava. The festival includes the performance of Cham dances, which are a form of masked dance performed to traditional music. The elaborate costumes and masks worn by the dancers add to the visual spectacle and create a sense of mysticism and reverence. The festival is also an opportunity for people to come together and celebrate their cultural heritage and spiritual beliefs.
Who Celebrates: Hemis is primarily celebrated by Buddhists in Ladakh.
When: November
Significance: Chhath Puja is dedicated to the Sun God and his wife, seeking their blessings for health and happiness.
Celebrations: Devotees fast, bathe in rivers, and offer prayers to the setting and rising sun. Chhath Puja is a time of deep spiritual reflection and devotion, with people observing strict fasts and performing various rituals. The festival includes the offering of prayers to the Sun God at sunrise and sunset, along with the preparation and sharing of traditional foods. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm in the states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, with people gathering at rivers and water bodies to perform the rituals. The sense of community and devotion creates a spiritually uplifting experience for participants.
Who Celebrates: Chhath Puja is primarily celebrated by Hindus in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh.
When: March-April
Significance: Gangaur celebrates the goddess Gauri, symbolizing harvest, spring, and marital fidelity.
Celebrations: Women fast, pray, and carry out processions with decorated idols of Gauri. Gangaur is a time of joy and celebration, particularly for women, who observe fasts and perform various rituals to honor the goddess Gauri. The festival includes the decoration of idols of Gauri, which are carried in processions accompanied by traditional music and dances. The preparation and sharing of festive foods add to the celebratory atmosphere. Gangaur is a time of renewal and hope, symbolizing the arrival of spring and the beginning of a new agricultural cycle.
Who Celebrates: Gangaur is primarily celebrated by Hindus in Rajasthan and parts of Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and West Bengal.
When: December
Significance: The Hornbill Festival showcases the traditions and cultures of Nagaland.
Celebrations: The festival features cultural performances, food fairs, arts and crafts, games, and parades. The Hornbill Festival is a vibrant and colorful celebration of the rich cultural heritage of Nagaland. The festival includes various cultural performances, such as traditional dances, music, and storytelling, along with the display of arts and crafts. The food fairs and games add to the festive atmosphere, creating a sense of community and celebration. The festival is an opportunity for people to come together and celebrate their cultural identity and heritage.
Who Celebrates: The Hornbill Festival is celebrated by the Naga tribes of Nagaland.
When: May-June
Significance: Saga Dawa commemorates the enlightenment of Lord Buddha.
Celebrations: Devotees visit monasteries, offer incense and water, and chant prayer hymns. Saga Dawa is a time of deep spiritual reflection and devotion, with people observing various rituals and customs to honor the life and teachings of Lord Buddha. The festival includes visits to monasteries, where people offer incense and water, along with the chanting of prayer hymns. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm in the states of Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Ladakh, with people coming together to participate in the rituals and prayers. The sense of community and devotion creates a spiritually uplifting experience for participants.
Who Celebrates: Saga Dawa is primarily celebrated by Buddhists in Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Ladakh.
When: July
Significance: The Dree Festival in Arunachal Pradesh ensures a good harvest.
Celebrations: Prayers are offered to deities, local wine is brewed, and feasts are enjoyed. The Dree Festival is a time of joy and thanksgiving, with people expressing gratitude for the bountiful harvest. The festival includes various rituals and customs, such as the offering of prayers to deities and the brewing of local wine. The preparation and sharing of festive foods add to the celebratory atmosphere. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm in the Ziro Valley, with people coming together to participate in the rituals and celebrations.
Who Celebrates: The Dree Festival is primarily celebrated by the Apatani tribe in Arunachal Pradesh.
When: February
Significance: Lui-Ngai-Ni is a seed-sowing festival celebrated by the Naga tribes of Manipur.
Celebrations: The festival includes traditional songs, dances, and cultural activities. Lui-Ngai-Ni is a time of joy and celebration, with people coming together to mark the beginning of the agricultural cycle. The festival includes various cultural performances, such as traditional songs, dances, and storytelling, along with the display of arts and crafts. The preparation and sharing of festive foods add to the celebratory atmosphere. The festival is an opportunity for people to come together and celebrate their cultural heritage and identity.
Who Celebrates: Lui-Ngai-Ni is celebrated by the Naga tribes of Manipur.
When: May
Significance: Moatsu Mong is celebrated by the Ao tribe of Nagaland to mark the completion of the sowing season.
Celebrations: The festival features songs, dances, and feasting around a big bonfire. Moatsu Mong is a time of joy and celebration, with people expressing gratitude for the completion of the sowing season. The festival includes various cultural performances, such as traditional songs and dances, along with the preparation and sharing of festive foods. The lighting of a big bonfire adds to the festive atmosphere, creating a sense of warmth and camaraderie. The festival is an opportunity for people to come together and celebrate their cultural heritage and traditions.
Who Celebrates: Moatsu Mong is primarily celebrated by the Ao tribe in Nagaland.
When: Varies based on the lunar calendar
Significance: Eid-ul-Zuha, or Bakrid, commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son.
Celebrations: Muslims offer prayers, sacrifice animals, and share the meat with family, friends, and the needy. Eid-ul-Zuha is a time of deep spiritual reflection and devotion, with people observing various rituals and customs to honor the life and teachings of Prophet Ibrahim. The festival includes the offering of prayers at mosques, followed by the sacrifice of animals and the distribution of meat. The preparation and sharing of festive foods add to the celebratory atmosphere. The festival is an opportunity for people to come together and express their gratitude for the blessings of life.
Who Celebrates: Eid-ul-Zuha is celebrated by Muslims across India.
When: January-February
Significance: Basant Panchami marks the arrival of spring and is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge and arts.
Celebrations: People wear yellow attire, fly kites, and offer prayers to Saraswati. Basant Panchami is a time of joy and celebration, with people expressing gratitude for the arrival of spring. The festival includes various rituals and customs, such as the offering of prayers to Saraswati and the wearing of yellow attire. The preparation and sharing of festive foods add to the celebratory atmosphere. The festival is an opportunity for people to come together and express their gratitude for the blessings of life.
Who Celebrates: Basant Panchami is primarily celebrated by Hindus, particularly in North India.
When: March-April
Significance: Ugadi marks the New Year for people in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, and Maharashtra.
Celebrations: People take ritualistic baths, wear new clothes, and prepare a special dish called Ugadi Pachadi. Ugadi is a time of joy and celebration, with people expressing gratitude for the arrival of the New Year. The festival includes various rituals and customs, such as the taking of ritualistic baths and the preparation of a special dish called Ugadi Pachadi. The preparation and sharing of festive foods add to the celebratory atmosphere. The festival is an opportunity for people to come together and express their gratitude for the blessings of life.
Who Celebrates: Ugadi is primarily celebrated by Hindus in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, and Maharashtra.
When: Every 12 years
Significance: Kumbh Mela is a major pilgrimage festival where devotees bathe in sacred rivers.
Celebrations: Millions gather for ritual bathing, prayers, and religious discussions. Kumbh Mela is a time of deep spiritual reflection and devotion, with people coming together to participate in various rituals and customs. The festival includes the offering of prayers and the taking of ritual baths in sacred rivers. The preparation and sharing of festive foods add to the celebratory atmosphere. The festival is an opportunity for people to come together and express their gratitude for the blessings of life.
Who Celebrates: Kumbh Mela is primarily celebrated by Hindus.
When: March-April
Significance: The Mewar Festival in Udaipur welcomes the arrival of spring.
Celebrations: The festival includes processions, cultural performances, and traditional attire. The Mewar Festival is a vibrant and colorful celebration of the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan. The festival includes various cultural performances, such as traditional dances, music, and storytelling, along with the display of arts and crafts. The preparation and sharing of festive foods add to the celebratory atmosphere. The festival is an opportunity for people to come together and celebrate their cultural identity and heritage.
Who Celebrates: The Mewar Festival is primarily celebrated by Hindus in Rajasthan.
When: January 26
Significance: Republic Day marks the adoption of the Indian Constitution.
Celebrations: The day features grand parades in New Delhi and state capitals, showcasing India's cultural diversity and military strength. Republic Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotism across India. The festival includes various cultural performances, such as traditional dances, music, and storytelling, along with the display of arts and crafts. The preparation and sharing of festive foods add to the celebratory atmosphere. The festival is an opportunity for people to come together and celebrate their cultural identity and heritage.
Who Celebrates: Republic Day is celebrated by all Indians.
When: August 15
Significance: Independence Day celebrates India's freedom from British rule in 1947.
Celebrations: The national flag is hoisted, parades are held, and patriotic songs and dances are performed. Independence Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotism across India. The festival includes various cultural performances, such as traditional dances, music, and storytelling, along with the display of arts and crafts. The preparation and sharing of festive foods add to the celebratory atmosphere. The festival is an opportunity for people to come together and celebrate their cultural identity and heritage.
Who Celebrates: Independence Day is celebrated by all Indians.
When: October 2
Significance: Gandhi Jayanti commemorates the birth of Mahatma Gandhi.
Celebrations: Special prayers and homages are held, and schools and colleges organize competitions and events in Gandhi's memory. Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotism across India. The festival includes various cultural performances, such as traditional dances, music, and storytelling, along with the display of arts and crafts. The preparation and sharing of festive foods add to the celebratory atmosphere. The festival is an opportunity for people to come together and celebrate their cultural identity and heritage.
Who Celebrates: Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated by all Indians.
When: January 1
Significance: New Year's Day marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year.
Celebrations: People celebrate with parties, fireworks, and exchanging greetings and gifts. New Year's Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy across India. The festival includes various cultural performances, such as traditional dances, music, and storytelling, along with the display of arts and crafts. The preparation and sharing of festive foods add to the celebratory atmosphere. The festival is an opportunity for people to come together and express their gratitude for the blessings of life.
Who Celebrates: New Year's Day is celebrated by all communities across India.
When: February-March
Significance: Losar is the Tibetan New Year, celebrating the lunisolar calendar.
Celebrations: Homes are cleaned, new clothes are worn, and fresh food is offered to gods. Losar is a time of joy and celebration, with people expressing gratitude for the arrival of the New Year. The festival includes various rituals and customs, such as the taking of ritualistic baths and the preparation of a special dish called Losar Pachadi. The preparation and sharing of festive foods add to the celebratory atmosphere. The festival is an opportunity for people to come together and express their gratitude for the blessings of life.
Who Celebrates: Losar is primarily celebrated by Buddhists in Ladakh, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh.
When: Teej is celebrated during the monsoon months: Hariyali Teej in July-August, Kajari Teej in August-September, and Hartalika Teej in September. This festival honors Goddess Parvati's devotion to Lord Shiva and symbolizes marital bliss.
Celebrations: Women celebrate by fasting, worshipping adorned idols of Parvati, and enjoying swings decorated with flowers while singing traditional songs. Mehendi designs, colorful attire, and jewelry add to the festivities. In places like Rajasthan, grand processions and fairs with music and dance are common.
Who Celebrates:Teej is primarily celebrated by women in North India, including Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Haryana, as well as by Hindu women in Nepal.
38. Kali Puja
When It Is Celebrated: Kali Puja is primarily celebrated in the month of October or November, during the new moon (Amavasya) night of the Hindu month of Kartik, coinciding with the festival of Diwali in North India.
Significance: Kali Puja is dedicated to Goddess Kali, the fierce embodiment of Shakti (power) and the destroyer of evil. It celebrates her victory over the demon Raktabija, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. Kali Puja is particularly significant for devotees seeking her blessings for protection, strength, and the destruction of negative energies.
Celebrations: Kali Puja celebrations involve elaborate rituals and prayers dedicated to Goddess Kali. Devotees decorate homes and pandals with Kali idols, chant mantras, and offer flowers, sweets, and symbolic sacrifices. Homes and temples are illuminated with lamps, and special midnight pujas are performed to invoke Kali's blessings. The rituals are accompanied by devotional songs and recitations of sacred texts, creating a mystical and reverent atmosphere.
Who Celebrates: Kali Puja is predominantly celebrated by Hindus in the eastern states of India, especially in West Bengal, Odisha, Assam, and parts of Bihar. It is also observed by Bengali communities around the world.
When: March-April
Significance: Ram Navami commemorates the birth of Lord Rama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and the protagonist of the epic Ramayana.
Celebrations: Devotees visit temples, offer prayers, and engage in recitations of Ramayana. Special religious discourses and bhajans (devotional songs) are organized, recounting the life and teachings of Lord Rama. It also serves as a reminder of the ideals and values embodied by Lord Rama, inspiring people to lead righteous and virtuous life.
Who Celebrates: Ram Navami is celebrated by Hindus across India.
When: March-April
Significance: Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
Celebrations: Christians observe fasting, attend church services, and participate in processions. Good Friday is a time of deep spiritual reflection and devotion, with people observing various rituals and customs to honor the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. The festival includes the offering of prayers and the taking of ritual baths in sacred rivers. The preparation and sharing of festive foods add to the celebratory atmosphere. The festival is an opportunity for people to come together and express their gratitude for the blessings of life.
Who Celebrates: Good Friday is primarily celebrated by Christians across India.
When: May
Significance: Buddha Purnima marks the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha.
Celebrations: Devotees visit Buddhist shrines, offer flowers and candles, and recite hymns and sermons. Buddha Purnima is a time of deep spiritual reflection and devotion, with people observing various rituals and customs to honor the life and teachings of Gautama Buddha. The festival includes the offering of flowers and candles, along with the chanting of prayer hymns. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm in the states of Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Ladakh, with people coming together to participate in the rituals and prayers. The sense of community and devotion creates a spiritually uplifting experience for participants.
Who Celebrates: Buddha Purnima is primarily celebrated by Buddhists across India.
When: June-July
Significance: Rath Yatra celebrates Lord Jagannath's journey to his aunt's home.
Celebrations: The festival features a grand procession with chariots in Odisha, especially in Puri. Rath Yatra is a time of deep spiritual reflection and devotion, with people observing various rituals and customs to honor the life and teachings of Lord Jagannath. The festival includes the offering of prayers and the taking of ritual baths in sacred rivers. The preparation and sharing of festive foods add to the celebratory atmosphere. The festival is an opportunity for people to come together and express their gratitude for the blessings of life.
Who Celebrates: Rath Yatra is primarily celebrated by Hindus in Odisha.
When: August
Significance: Navroz marks the beginning of the Zoroastrian New Year.
Celebrations: Parsis visit fire temples, wear new clothes, and exchange sweets and wishes. Navroz is a time of joy and celebration, with people expressing gratitude for the arrival of the New Year. The festival includes various rituals and customs, such as the taking of ritualistic baths and the preparation of a special dish called Navroz Pachadi. The preparation and sharing of festive foods add to the celebratory atmosphere. The festival is an opportunity for people to come together and express their gratitude for the blessings of life.
Who Celebrates: Navroz is primarily celebrated by Parsis.
When: October
Significance: Karva Chauth is a fasting ritual observed by married women for their husbands' long life.
Celebrations: Women fast from sunrise to moonrise, pray for their husbands, and break the fast after sighting the moon. Karva Chauth is a time of deep spiritual reflection and devotion, with people observing various rituals and customs to honor the life and teachings of Lord Shiva. The festival includes the offering of prayers and the taking of ritual baths in sacred rivers. The preparation and sharing of festive foods add to the celebratory atmosphere. The festival is an opportunity for people to come together and express their gratitude for the blessings of life.
Who Celebrates: Karva Chauth is primarily celebrated by Hindu married women in North India.
When: October-November
Significance: Bhai Dooj celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters.
Celebrations: Sisters apply tilak on their brothers' foreheads, pray for their well-being, and brothers give gifts in return. Bhai Dooj is a time of deep spiritual reflection and devotion, with people observing various rituals and customs to honor the life and teachings of Lord Shiva. The festival includes the offering of prayers and the taking of ritual baths in sacred rivers. The preparation and sharing of festive foods add to the celebratory atmosphere. The festival is an opportunity for people to come together and express their gratitude for the blessings of life.
Who Celebrates: Bhai Dooj is primarily celebrated by Hindus across India.
Q: What are the 5 national festivals of India? A: The five national festivals of India are Independence Day, Republic Day, Gandhi Jayanti, Teachers' Day, and Children's Day.
Q: What are the festivals of India? A: India celebrates numerous festivals throughout the year, including Diwali, Holi, Eid, Dussehra, Independence Day, Christmas, Baisakhi, and Janmashtami.
Q: How many types of festivals are there in India? A: There are several types of festivals in India, including National Festivals, Religious Festivals, Harvest Festivals, and Regional Festivals.
Q: Why do we call India a land of festivals? A: India is called the land of festivals due to the numerous celebrations held throughout the year, reflecting its diverse cultures and traditions.
Q: What is a national festival? A: A national festival is celebrated across the entire nation and is usually recognized by the government with an official holiday. India has three major national festivals: Independence Day, Republic Day, and Gandhi Jayanti.
Q: Why are festivals important? A: Festivals unite people from different cultures and religions, fostering peace, love, and understanding. They are a great opportunity to celebrate and spread joy.
By: VerneCok on July 30, 2024
https://stolichnyi.kiev.ua/
By: VerneCok on July 30, 2024
https://stolichnyi.kiev.ua/
By: RobertRox on July 30, 2024
Italy’s cheap homes hot spot puts more up for sale кракен 12 Dwindling Italian towns have been pulling out all the stops to lure new residents in recent years, with several one-euro home schemes launching across the country. But while some towns have struggled to find buyers for their abandoned buildings, others have been basking in the glory of successful sales. https://kraken19at.net кракен 13 “We just want to make it clear that by numbering these batches, more sales will likely follow in coming years,” newly elected mayor Giuseppe Cacioppo tells CNN. “Foreigners are flocking to buy our homes, it’s been a hit so far.” Cacioppo encourages potential buyers who are heading to the region to pay the town a visit and check out the 12 or so homes up for grabs this time. “The timing is perfect,” he says. “Tourists and interested buyers currently traveling to Italy, and those planning a trip in spring and summer can come take a look.” According to Cacioppo, the available homes, located in the old Saracen district, are as “structurally stable as those so far sold” but in need of a restyle. Sambuca made global headlines back in 2019 when CNN announced that it was putting 16 dwellings up for sale for one euro. Two years later, the town offered up a second batch of homes for two euros. https://kraken-19at.net kraken6gf6o4rxewycqwjgfchzgxyfeoj5xafqbfm4vgvyaig2vmxvyd.onion The fire-sale, which lured international buyers as far as the Middle East, has helped to revamp the local economy with an influx of 20 million euros (around $21.8 million,) says Cacioppo. This includes turnover from new B&Bs, new shops that have opened in the town and contracts with builders, architects, surveyors, interior designers and notaries. “The two batches of houses, owned by the town hall, revitalized the private real estate sector. People rushing to grab one at auction but didn’t make the final cut bought a cheap house instead. So far, 250 homes have been sold,” says Cacioppo. Sambuca’s triumphant efforts to sell off its empty homes are largely credited to the fact that the local authorities actually own the abandoned dwellings they hope to offload. Other depopulated Italian towns, such as medieval village Patrica, located south of Rome, have attempted to launch similar schemes, but struggled to track down the former owners to gain permission to sell their empty homes.