FESTIVALS

The history of Lohri, a seasonal festival of North India is as old as that of story of Indus Valley civilization itself. The Festival of Lohri marks the beginning of the end of winter and the coming of spring and the new year.

Literally "Holi" signifies "burning" in Indian language. But, how it came to be associated with 'burning', is a story. The reference is found only in ancient Indian mythology. And It is the legend of Hiranyakashipu, to whom the celebration of Holi is associated.

here are many reasons for celebrating religious and other festivals. They help bring people of all sects and classes together; they bring fun and laughter and good feeling to people whose lifes might otherwise be drab and dull and they remind people, yet after years, of a special event or happening.

Teej is the festival of swings. It marks the advent of the monsoon month of Shravan (August). The monsoon rains fall on the parched land and the pleasing scent of the wet soil rises into the air. Swings are hung from trees and decorated with flowers.

Raksha Bandhan is a festival celebrating the bond of affection between brothers and sisters. The day when the siblings pray for each other’s' wellbeing and wish for each other’s happiness and goodwill. As the name 'Raksha Bandhan' suggests, 'a bond of protection'.

Dussehra or Vijay Dashami is one of the most popular Hindu festivals celebrated with joie de vivre across India. The festival of Dussehra is a principle celebration in many parts of the country. It is celebrated with great fanfare in Kullu in Himachal Pradesh, Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, Mysore in Karnataka and slightly differently as Durga puja in West Bengal.

Diwali has many legendary and religious accounts to it. Lights and diyas are lit to signify the driving away of darkness and ignorance, as well as the awakening of the light within ourselves. Diwali is a time for family gatherings, relishing food, celebrations and pooja. The goddess Laxmi plays a major role in this festival, as do Ram and Sita.

When Rome was a great Empire ruled by Caesar Augustus and Israel was governed by King Herod, in the village of Nazareth lived Joseph and Mary. Joseph was a carpenter and Mary was a young virgin who would become his wife. Mary told Joseph of a dream in which she was visited by an angel who told her that she had been chosen to bear the Son of God, and his name was to be Jesus.

Eid is a significant Islamic festival celebrated twice a year: Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, and Eid al-Adha honors the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. Both are joyous occasions marked by prayers, charity, and gatherings with family and friends.

New Year marks the beginning of a new calendar year, celebrated with festivities such as parties, fireworks, and resolutions. It is a time for reflecting on the past year and welcoming new opportunities and experiences.

Republic Day commemorates the adoption of a nation's constitution and the establishment of its republic status. It is celebrated with patriotic events such as parades, flag-hoisting ceremonies, and cultural performances, honoring the country's democratic values and achievements.

Shivratri, or Maha Shivratri, is a Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva. It involves fasting, night-long vigils, and worship, celebrating Shiva's cosmic dance and his role as the destroyer and transformer within the Hindu trinity.

Ram Navmi celebrates the birth of Lord Rama, an avatar of Vishnu, known for his role in the epic Ramayana. The festival includes prayers, religious processions, and recitations of the Ramayana, honoring Rama’s virtues of righteousness and devotion.

Independence Day marks the anniversary of a nation's liberation from colonial rule or occupation. It is celebrated with patriotic events, such as parades, ceremonies, and fireworks, honoring the country's freedom and sovereignty.

Janmashtami celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu, with devotional activities including fasting, singing, dancing, and reenactments of Krishna's life. The festival is marked by vibrant processions and temple celebrations, reflecting Krishna's divine teachings and playful nature.

October 2nd is observed as Gandhi Jayanti in India, marking the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of the Indian independence movement. It is also celebrated as International Day of Non-Violence, honoring Gandhi's principles of peace, non-violence, and social justice.

Goverdhan Puja, also known as Annakut, is a Hindu festival celebrating Lord Krishna's lifting of Govardhan Hill to protect villagers. Devotees offer food to Krishna, symbolizing gratitude and nature's abundance.

Bhai Dooj is a Hindu festival celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters. On this day, sisters pray for their brothers' well-being, while brothers give gifts and pledge protection to their sisters.

Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Gurpurab, celebrates the birth of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism. It is marked by prayers, hymns, processions, and langar (community meals), reflecting Guru Nanak's teachings of equality, compassion, and devotion to God.