India is a country with diverse religions and a population of 1.21 billion. It is perhaps the only country in the world where one can witness festivals of different kinds that are celebrated with equal zeal and enthusiasm throughout all the states in India. The passion with which people enjoy these festivals are a proof to the fact that when it comes to celebrations, India can certainly leave behind all other countries of the world. Tourists from all around the globe flock here in large numbers to be a part of the grand celebrations and the rich culture of India. In fact, you will be stunned to know that these festivals which have their origin in India are celebrated with equal excitement in different parts of the world.
Here, we will focus on all the major festivals of India that keeps the country drenched in a festive mood around the year.
Holi: Held mainly in the months of February -March, the year begins with the colorful festivals where people thoroughly enjoy with each other by smudging colors on each other’s face. Children mix colors in liquid form, put them in the spray gun which is called ‘Pichkari’ and spray them on each other. Colors mixed with water are also filled inside tiny balloons and thrown on the people. Bhaang, a mixture made from cannabis plants is also consumed during the celebrations.
Ganesh Chaturthi: Celebrated in the month of August-September, this festival is celebrated to commemorate the birth of the Hindu God Ganesha. It is believed that Lord Ganesha brings good luck and prosperity in people’s life. Massive idols of Shree Ganesha are constructed and are devoted with prayers.
Eid: Also termed as Id Ul Zuha, this is mostly celebrated by the Islamic people in the month of August. Just a month before the celebration of this wonderful festival, Ramzan is observed, that is people remain fasting from the day till midnight. The fast ends on a full moon night. Mithai Seviya, a special sweet dish is prepared this day. People wear new clothes and read Namaz.
Dussehra: Dussehra is celebrated in order to celebrate the victory of Goddesses Durga over the demon Mahishasura. It is one of the most famous festivals in India. This is hugely celebrated in West Bengal, a state in India and is the biggest festival of the Bengalis. They celebrate the festival for a period of four long days. Effigies of Ravaan are burnt in many places as the festival also marks the victory of Lord Rama over Ravaan.
Diwali: Deppavali, Diwali, festival of lights, this multi named festival is just spectacular to watch. The reason I am using the word spectacular is because of the reason that it is really a treat to the eyes to see the crackers flying high in the sky and the beautiful arrangements of diyas or candle lights in every house. It is a tradition to exchange gifts with each other in Diwali. The festival is normally held in the month of November.
Onam: Mainly celebrated in South India, Onam is held in the month of September. It marks the return of the King Mahabali to his home. People decorate the entrance of their homes with beautiful flowers in order to welcome the king. The most interesting part of the festival is that the poor is served food in the banana leaves. On the other hand, it is also really spectacular to watch snake boat races that are organized by the locales of the place.
India might be a developing country in the map of world economy but in terms of celebrations it is certainly the most developed one.
Pradipna Lodh
