Lions Club International Dist.323 D-1 [ region II zone I ] District Governor Lion Anil Desai.

Lion Mrs. Amarjadevi A. HalgekarD.C. ‘National Festivals’

Dear Lions, I would like to firstly thank district governor

Lion Anil Desai for giving the post of ‘national festivals of India’ and would like take the responsibility and complete the service giving respect to the post. It is very important to know about the festivals of India by all Lions and every citizen of India. Our country is the most diversified in terms of religion, culture and languages. People from around the world are impressed by seeing such diversity and our colourful life. We have to keep the unity in diversity and should respect ours and other religions. The main aim of festivals is to create an occasion to merry and unite and teach importance of our surroundings and nature to the next generation and keep the legacy.

In Lions club we must take the opportunity of every festival as a occasion to help and give service to others in every possible small and big way. May this presentation help to know the dates and importance of our national festivals.

Republic DayDate-January 26 Every year, a grand Republic day is celebrated on January 26th , is one of India’s most important national events. It was on January 26th, 1950 that the constitution of India came into force and India became a truly Sovereign, Democratic and Republic state.On this day -India finally enjoyed the freedom of spirit, rule of law and fundamental principle of governance. The patriotic fervor of the Indian people on this day brings the whole country together even in her embedded diversity.Republic Day is a people’s day in a variety of ways:It’s when regional identity takes a backseat and what matters most is the universal appeal of unity and brotherhood projected by all Indians. The Indian constitution basically stands for the aspirations which ‘the common man of India’ cherishes.Republic Day is a day of the citizen of the country when he is entitled to be ‘all supreme.Republic Day is celebrated most majestically in the capital, New Delhi, where symbols of the great nation's military might and cultural wealth are displayed in what is the world's most impressive parade. All Government buildings are illuminated lending the city the atmosphere of a fairyland. This day is celebrated with much zeal and pride all across the nation.

 

Shivaji Maharaja Jayanti (celebrated in maharashtra)

Date:- 19 Feb. Shivaji Jayanti or the birthday of Shivaji Maharaj is celebrated on a majestic scale in Maharashtra. Shivaji was born on 19th February, 1627. His parents Jijabai and Shahaji Bhonsle named him Shivaji after local Goddess Shivai. Shivaji was the creator of the Maratha nation. He was instrumental in uniting the Maratha chiefs of Mayal, Konkan and Desh regions. His military and civil administration was of greatest importance. He was successful in carving out a small kingdom by defeating the alien powers. Chatrapati Shivaji is a hero not only for the people of Maharashtra but for those of India as well. On the occasion of Shivaji Jayanti several processions are taken out and people dress up like Shivaji and his associates. The birthday is celebrated on a huge scale and various programmes remembering the achievements of the great ruler are organized.

MahashivratriDates : February 25th.

Legend : On a moonless night in February every year, occurs the night of Shiva, the destroyer. This is the night when he is said to have performed the Tandava or the dance of creation, preservation and destruction.Practice : Devotees of Shiva fast during the day and maintain a long vigil during the night. In temples all across the country, bells ring, sacred texts are chanted and traditional offerings of leaves and milk are made to the Shiva lingam, the phallic symbol of the god. According to ancient scriptures, Shiva manifests himself in the form of a huge flaming lingam known as Jyotirlinga on Shivratri. It is the duty of every worshipper to worship this lingam with at least one bilwa leaf.To help the devout keep awake, stories or katha expounding the greatness of Shiva are organised, devotional hymns and songs sung and sacred texts recited.Shiva is worshipped to release the worshipper from the cycle of birth and rebirth. In Kashmir, the festival is held for 15 days; the thirteenth day is observed as Herath, a day of fast followed by a family feast.

HoliDate:- 28 feb-1 March

The colorful festival of Holi is celebrated on Phalgun Purnima which comes in February end or early March. Holi festival has an ancient origin and celebrates the triumph of 'good' over 'bad'. The colorful festival bridges the social gap and renew sweet relationships. On this day, people hug and wish each other 'Happy Holi‘Originally Holi was regarded to be the festival to celebrate good harvests and fertility of the land. There are several legends and stories behind Holi. A popular legend says that Holi is remembered for the sacrifice of Holika who burnt herself in fire on this day. Holi is therefore regarded one of the most ancient festivals of the Aryans who finds an honored mention in our old Sanskrit texts like Dashakumar Charit and Garud Puran. Even the play "Ratnavali" written by Harshdev states a delightful description of Holi as afestival. In those days this very festival was celebrated as "Vasantotsav". Latter everybody started calling it "MADANOTSAV".Celebration of Holi festival is characterized by performing Holi puja as per Hindu tradition. Dhuleti, which falls day after Holi Puja, is considered to be the actual festival of colors. Children and youngsters vie with each other use fast and sticky colors to celebrate Holi. It is all fun and joy for them.

Rangpanchami (celebrated in maharashtra)

Date:- 5 MarchPeople of Maharashtra commonly know this festival of colours by the name of Rangpanchami as the play of colours is reserved for the fifth day here. Locals of Maharashtra also know Holi as Shimga or Shimgo.

The festival is particularly popular amongst fisher folk. They celebrate it in on a large scale and revel in the festivities by singing, dancing and merry-making. This special dance provide them means to release all their repressed feelings, needs and desires. People also utter sound through their mouths in a peculiar fashion by striking their mouths with the back of their hands. and merry-making. This special dance provide them means to release all their repressed feelings, needs and desires. People also utter sound through The main purpose of celebrating this festival is, according to the religious significance of the festival of Holi is to mark the burning of self-conceit, selfishness, greed, lust, hatred, in fact all the undesirable demoniac good over bad. Holi is celebrated at the end of the winter season on the last full moon day of the lunar month Phalguna, which usually falls in the later part of February or March.

Ram NavmiDates : 3 April

Practice : Lord Vishnu is worshipped in his human incarnation as Ram, the divine ruler of Ayodhya, on his birth anniversary known as Ram Navmi. It is widely celebrated in Ayodhya and Pondicherry, two places closely connected with the events of the Ramayana, to participate in Ram Navmi festivities. In Ayodhya, thousands of pilgrims converge at the Kanaka Bhawan Temple. Colourful processions are held, which comprise brilliant floats of Ram, his wife Sita, Ram's loyal brother Lakshmana and Hanuman, Ram's monkey-general. Plays based on the Ramayana are also enacted. As the sun rises, a coconut is placed in a cradle and at midday (when Ram is said to have been born), a priest announces his birth. 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

Gudi Padwa or Ugadi (celebrated in maharashtra, karnataka and Andhra P.)

Date:- 6 AprilThis festival marks the beginning of New Year in (Gudi Padwa) Maharashtra, (ugadi)Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. Gudi Padwa is considered one of the four most auspicious days in the year when people start new ventures. It is believed that Lord Brahma, created the world on this day and so he is worshipped specially at this time.Lord Vishnu too is said to have incarnated as Matsya, the fish, on this day. A gudi (banner) with a swastika -marked metal pot and silk cloth is raised to announce victory and joy. In Maharashtra, it is reminiscent of the valiant Marathas returning home from their successful expeditions of war. Maharashtrian take the opportunity to honour their favourite leader, Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

People prepare for the New Year by cleaning and washing their houses and buying new clothes. On the festival day they decorate their houses with mango leaves and 'rangoli' designs, and pray for a prosperous new year, and visit the temples to listen to the yearly calendar 'Panchangasravanam' as priests make predictions for the coming year.Traditionally bitter leaves of the neem tree with jaggery were given as Prasad of Ugadi/Gudi Padwa.Gudi Padwa is considered as an auspicious occasion to buy ornaments, house and other new things. This festival marks the beginning of 'Vasant' or spring.Indian society is largely dependendent on agriculture and e celebrations and festivals are often linked with changing seasons and to the sowing and reaping of crops. The word 'padwa' is a Sanskrit word for crop, which literally means 'Pradurbhu.' This day also marks the end of one harvest and the beginning of a new one, which for an agricultural community would signify the beginning of a New Year. Gudi Padwa is celebrated at the end of the Rabi season.

Hanuman JayantiDate:-9 April

In Hindu mythology, Shri Hanuman is regarded as the God of power, strength and knowledge. He is known as the ‘param bhakt’ of lord Rama and is the incarnation of Lord Shiva. He was born to Kesari and Anjani on the Chaitra Shukla Purnima (Chaitra Shukla Purnima is the Full Moon Day on the Hindu Calendar Month of Chaitra) that is why, he is known as ‘KESERI NANDAN’ and ‘ANJANEYA’. The philosophy of epicRamayana is incomplete without the understanding of the unfathomable devotion of Lord Hanuman for Shri Rama. As Hindu Mythology says, He was the incarnation of Lord Shiva the God of Destruction, the Third god of Hindu trinity (All this universe is in the glory of God, of Shiva, the God of Love. The heads and faces of men are His own and He is in the hearts of all - Yajur Veda).

Lord Hanuman is regarded to be the son of Hindu deity ‘VAYU’ (the wind). He was taken by 'Vayu' to Lord Sun to gain Vedic, shastra's and moral knowledge. He gained his whole knowledge from Lord Sun, as he was considered as omniscient on the planet earth. 

As per the mythology, Hanuman ji is invincible and blessed to be immortal. The supremacy possessed by him is very beautifully described in Ramayana, during theRamayana war of Lord Rama against the mighty Ravana. The Sundara Kanda, the fifth book in the Ramayana, focuses mainly on the adventures of Hanuman

Baishakhi (celebrated in punjab, kerala, tamilnadu)Date:-10 AprilBaisakhi is a seasonal festival with a special accent. It is celebrated all over the State on the first of Baisakh. This is the time when harvest is gathered in and the farmer exults in the fulfillment of his year's hard work.He joins the merry-making with full gusto and does not mind walking for miles to be able to do so. Since this fair is also an expression of prosperity, singing and dancing constitute its most enchanting features. The Punjab's famous Bhangra and Giddha are inextricably linked with this festival.Baisakhi marks the beginning of New Year, particularly in the northern part of India. It is among the few Indian festivals that have a fixed date. Baisakhi is always on April 13th. In Kerala, Baisakhi is called as "Vishu" and in Tamil Nadu, it is celebrated as "Puthandu".Considered a holy day, the devout celebrate the Baisakhi with a dip in the holy rivers just around the break of dawn. It is on this day that Sun enters Aries, the first sign of Zodiac. This signifies ushering of the New Year.

The fields can be seen full of nature's bounty. Dressed in their typical folk attire, both men and women, celebrate the day with Bhangra and Gidda. Sweets are distributed, old enmities are forgiven and life is full of joy, merriment and everyone seems to belong.

Kumbh Mela

Date:- 14 To 18 AprilKumbha is a Sanskrit word that means “kalasha” in hindi and “pitcher”, an open vessel with a handle and a spout in English. Also, one of the Zodiac signs “Aquarius” means kumbha, so it is this sign under which this Mela falls.“Mela” refers to a public gathering for fun or any specific purpose. Kumbha Mela is a very popular and widely respected Hindu pilgrimage. Although the Purna Kumbh Mela (great Kumbh Mela) occurs every 12 years, but the Ardh(half) Kumbh Mela is observed every 6 years.In these 12 years there are 4 Kumbh Melas at 4 different locations of Allahabad, Haridwar, Nasik, Ujjain, which are “The holy cities”, according to Hindus as the drops of Amrit produced during “samudra Manthan” are believed to fall here.

Time for Kumbh MelaAs per the Indian Astrology, Kumbh Mela is celebrated when the planet Jupiter (Brahspati) enters the zodiac sign of Aquarius (kumbha). 6There is no fixed date of the event; it is every time decided according to the special cosmic positions and interactions of Sun, moon and planet Jupiter.kumbha Mela is celebrated every three years splaying across the cities of Allahbad, also called “prayag” at the conglomeration of holy rivers of Ganga, Yamuna and saraswati, Haridwar “The road to god” with blessings of maa ganga, at Nasik along Godawari river and Ujjain under the influence of river Kshipra.Ardh Kumbha Mela is celebrated every 6 years in the holy cities of Allahabad and Haridwar.Purna Kumbh Mela is celebrated every 12 years in the city of Allahabad.Maha Kumbh Mela is celebrated after 12 Purna kumbha Melas that is every 144 years also at the holy city of Aallahabad.

Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Jayanti

DATE- APRIL 14

BabasahebAmbedkar Jayanti April 14 is the birthday of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the father of Indian constitution. His full name is Bhimarao Ramji Ambedkar. He is also known as Babasaheb. Ambedkar Jayanti is observed and celebrated by both public and private organizations and is considered a public holiday throughout the countryAmbedkar spent his entire life fighting against social discrimination, the system of Chaturvarna - categorization of Hindu society into four Varna - and the Hindu caste system. He is also credited with providing a spark for the conversion of hundreds of thousands of Dalits with his Ambedkar Buddhism. Ambedkar has been honored with the Bharat Ratner, India's highest civilian honor.

Vishu Festival(celebrated in kerala,tamilnadu)

Date:- 15 AprilVishu is a Malayalum festival held in the state of Kerala (and adjoining areas of Tamil Nadu) in Indian on the first day in the Malayalum month of Medam (April-May). Festival of Vishu is also known as the Malayalum New Year day and thus it becomes all the more important for the Malayalees regardless of their religion or sect. Simmilarly this festival is celebrated in almost all the places in India by the Hindus but by the different names. In Assam this day is called Bihu, in Punjab Baisakhi and in Tamil Nadu Puthandu. On this day, it is believed that the first thing one sees in the morning will decide the kind of year ahead. This is the main belief behind preparing "Vishukani". An assortment of items like raw rice, gold, silver, coins, holy text, some particular vegetables and fruits, etc. are arranged on a tray. Usually the youngest member of a family is ushered with his/her eyes closed to room where all this is arranged in front of images of Gods. He/she is then asked to look at these items. This is done early in the morning, usually at the crack of dawn. The elders of the family prepare this tray.

Buddha Purnima

Date:- 9 May

Gautama was born as Siddhartha in the Kshatria caste of the Shakya clan in 566 B.C. (disputed, see reference) in Kalpataru (now Lumbini in present day Nepal). Popular legends represent him as the son of a great king, brought up amidst the luxuries of a palace.  As he grew into manhood, Siddhartha was caught by the sufferings of the world (old age, disease and death being important of them), left his riches to become an ascetic and sought higher truth. After years of study, meditation and sacrifice, he is known to have found the Nirvana (cure to ills of the world) and became the Buddha or the completely enlightened.Gautama Buddha adopted the life of a religious teacher from the age of thirty-five till his death at the age of eighty (c. 486 B.C.). He was a great teacher and had a tremendous following in the provinces of  Magadha, Kosala and all the neighboring territories.

Vata Savitri (celebrated especiaaly in maharashtra)

Date:- 12 June & 25 JuneVat Savitri purnima is a festival of women. Vata Savitri Purnima is a very famous Hindu festival of India which is celebrated across the country specially in Maharashtra. Vat Savitri purnima can be celebrated by the women on the full moon day of Jyeshtha mas. Vata Savitri Purnima is also known as vata purnima or vat purnima. on the day of Vata Savitri Purnima women pray for long life of their husbands and they pray that they never be widows. The significance of Vat Savitri purnima is connected to the legend story of Savitri and satyawan. in this story savitri got back her dead husbands life form yama.

On this day which is also usually a Amavasya (no moon day) the vata or we can say banyan tree is worshipped by women’s, at some places it is also observed on Jyaishtha Purnima. women take fast for the three days, or at least on the last day. women wake up early in the morning and take bathed and go to worship the Vata (banyan tree) in different groups. Vat Savitri purnima is meant only for the married women.On this occasion of Vata Savitri Purnima women keep fast For their husbands, women wear bridal type dresses and jewelery. After breaking their fast, fruits, clothes and such other articles are given in charity in a bamboo basket to the Brahmin’s. Women worship a banyan (vata) tree, and listen to the story of Savitri in groups. after all this women can offer prayer and worship. during this puja women pray for good health of their husbands. women feed water to the tree, sprinkle red powder (kumkum) on it, cotton threads are wrapped round tree’s trunks and then they go seven times round and do the parikrama.

Guru PoornimaDate:- 7 July      Devotional worship of the Guru - the preceptor - is one of the most touching and elevating features of the Hindu cultural tradition. The auspicious moment of Vyaasa Poornima, chosen for observing this annual festival, is no less significant. It was the great sage Vyasa, son of a fisherwoman, who classified the accumulated spiritual knowledge of the Vedas under four heads - Rig, Yajur, Saama and Atharva. To him goes the credit of composing the authentic treatise of Brahma-sootras to explain the background of Vedas. He also wrote the eighteen Puranas, the stories of our great heroes and saints, to carry the spiritual and moral precepts contained therein to the common masses.      .The Guru in the Hindu tradition is looked upon as an embodiment of God himself. For, it is through his grace and guidance that one reaches the highest state of wisdom and bliss. "My salutations to the Guru who is Brahma, Vishnu and Maheswara. The Guru is Parabrahma incarnate" Gururbrahmaa gururvishnuh gururdevo Maheswarah Guruh-saakshaat parabrahma tasmai shrigurave namah

Teej Festival

Date:- 24 to 25 julyTeej - 'the festival of swings' is celebrated with gusto and fervor in various parts of India and Nepal. The festival of Teej commemorates the reunion of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Married women and young girls celebrate the festival with earnest devotion. Teej falls in the month of Sawan and brings great relax from the scorching summers. Many religious activities takes place at the time of Teej. Such rituals and customs of Teej forces people to become part of grand Teej celebrations.

Teej has many significant roles to play in one's life. Women observing Nirajara Vrat on Teej are said to be blessed with long and healthy life of their husband by Teej Mata Parvati. Various other customs and rituals of Teej make the festival more important. Teej gives a chance to women to express their love and devotion for their husband who in return present beautiful gifts to their wife as a token of love.

Naagpanchami

Date:- 14 AugThe fifth day of Shravan, in July / August, is dedicated to snake worship.Practice : The Naag culture is quite common in India. Snake charmers start gathering snakes, thereby saving the lives of the young serpents. Live cobras or their images are worshipped. Women worship Ananta the cosmic snake in temples. In Bengal, Manasa is worshipped as the goddess of snakes. Shiva is also worshipped since he wears snakes as ornaments. Snakes are feed milk and sweets, and released into the forests. Fairly widespread before the Aryan invasion, worshipping of snakes or Naga was later incorporated into Hinduism by the Aryan themselves. Hindu Mythological books are famously filled with stories, fables and pictures of snakes.

Lord Vishnu's couch is the green, thousand-headed snake (Ananta or Sesha) who could hold up the earth. Lord Shiva wears a snake for ornamental purpose. Even Lord Krishna is called "Kaliya Mardan" to commemorate his victory over the giant snake, Kaliya.

 

Parsi new year

Date:- 19 AugAlso known as Navroze, the Parsi New Year is mainly celebrated by a particular sect of Parsis, the Faslis. It is also celebrated by the Muslims of Iran and Zoroastrians. Navroze is the first day of the first month according to the Zoroastrian calendar. Navroze means spring, or the beginning of a new life shedding off all that is old and worn out. Originally an agricultural festival, the Parsi New Year later transformed into a religious festival.DescriptionThe day is celebrated by wearing new and colorful clothes, decorating the house with powders of different colors, lighting incense sticks and sprinkling sandalwood powder on live coal.The day begins by going to the Fire Temple and offering Jashan or a thanksgiving prayer service and offering sandalwood to the holy fire.Food is a significant part of the Parsi New Year. It includes a wide selection of non-vegetarian dishes, fruits and nuts. Two important dishes in breakfast for the Parsi New Year are Ravo and fried vermicelli cooked in sugar syrup and decorated with raisins.

 

Onam (celebrated in kerala)

Date;23 august.It is the festival, which the keralites celebrate unitedly without the difference of caste and religion. Onam is a time for sports and festivities and in Kerala where one third of the area is low lying, covered with canals, lakes and backwaters; the people take to their boats and country crafts to celebrate. Colourful aquatic festivals are organized along the sacred rive Pamba.After three months of heavy rains, the sky becomes a clear blue and the forests a deep green. The brooks and streams come alive, spitting forth-gentle white foam, the lakes and rivers overflow and lotuses and lilies are in full bloom. It is time to reap the harvest, to celebrate and to rejoice. The harvest festival of Onam corresponds with the Malayalam New Year, Chingam. Onam Festival ofKerala OnamFestival of KeralaOnam is the most importantharvest festivalof Kerala and is an attraction for thousands of people within and outside the state. Ranging from four days to ten days, all the activities during this season are cantered around worshipping, music, dances, sports, boat races and good food. It is celebrated in the Malayalam month Chingam (ending of August and beginning of September). This year it falls on 15 September 2005. Onam is a harvest festival, and celebrates the bounty of nature after a year of hard labour. Elaborate procession of Trichur and spectacular snake boat races on River Pampa mark the merry-making nature of the festival. Women dress up in new saris and heavy jewellery and make elaborate and intricate designs of 'rangolis' (with coloured rice paste) and 'pookkalam' (with flowers) in front of their homes.

Independence Day

Date:- 15 Aug

As the subcontinent recovers from a bloody war with  fellow residents, it is very important to recognize how we got here. In the narrow mindedness of the regional fervor, it is easy to forget the sacrifices made-  by Hindus and Muslims alike - from the heroics of Queen Laxmibai and Tippu Sultan to the moral conquests of Mahatma Gandhi. to liberate our motherland from the Europeans.We are very proud to bring you this online exhibition of history, people and events leading to the creation of our great nation. We begin with a poem on what were our people's aspirations for India  -or our tryst with destiny - followed by a historical narration starting from the Battle of Plassey. We provide biographies of some of the bravest soldiers of India, leaders and visionaries. Internet links to further references/surfing are also provided.Happy Birthday India !

Raksha Bandhan

Date:- 24 AugThe Rakshabandhan (Rakhi) Festival(July-August)The brotherly duties and sisterly love are symbolized during the Rakshabandhan festival in India. Women, old and young alike tie specially made threads and thread watches (rakhis) to their brothers to ensure their welfare, and protection from the evil.The festival has evolved in the recent times and the symbolism has been changed to connote 'brotherly love'. The all male volunteers of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (the RSS), engage in a large celebration, tying the rakhis to each other, symbolizing universal brotherhood. It is used by many girls to keep unwanted romantic advancements by boys away (once you tied a rakhi, you are considered like a brother and cannot be engaged in a romantic relationship with the person). 

Krishna Janmashtami

Date:- 1 Sep.First Online: June 27,2001Last Updated: May 07,2010While Lord Krishna is widely worshipped among Hindus as an avatar of Lord Vishnu, the cause for his popularity is his intensely human form as described in the Hindu epics.  His exploits (collectively called "Krishna Leela") are a popular theme for Indian artists over centuries. Krishna is often depicted as an overgrown, naughty child stealing butter, as a cowherd protecting cows, as a mischievous adolescent who stole women's clothes, and a slayer of demons. He is also the supreme diplomat, and especially the preacher of the sacred verse, Bhagavad-Gita at a time of war Janmashtami or Gokulashtami as it is popularly known in North India, is a festival full of joy and gaiety. It celebrates with great pomp and show, the birth of Lord Krishna who was born more than 5000 years ago in the 28th year of Dwapur Yug. It is one of the most celebrated festivals for Hindus not only in India but also, all over the world. Janmashtami is about the joy, people all over the world feel for their beloved Lord Krishna.

Ramzan Eid

Date:- 9 sep.   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.

Ganesh Chaturathi

Date:- 11 Sep.

Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated on the 4th day of the bright half of Bhadrapad. This festival marks the birthday of Lord Ganesh. Lord Ganesha or Ganpati is one of the most popular deities in the Hindu religion. It is worshiped by both Shaivites and Vaishnavites. Even Buddhists and Jains have faith for Ganpati. He is considered to be an avatar of both Shiva and Vishnu. 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 idols of Lord Ganesha and install them in their houses and worship the idol for one to ten days, after which the idols are taken out ceremoniously, through the streets of the town (especially in Maharashtra) and immersed into the river, sea or well.

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.

Gandhi JayantiDate:- 2 oct.

A national holiday in India to commemorate the birth of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, who came to be known as Mahatma ("great soul") Gandhi. At this time pilgrimages are made from throughout the country to the Raj Ghat on the banks of the Yamuna River in Delhi where Gandhi was cremated. Many communities also hold spinning and weaving sessions in his honor.

Gandhi, often pictured in a simple white cotton robe at a spinning wheel, was the leader of the movement for Indian nationalism, the 20th century's great prophet of nonviolence, and a religious innovator who encouraged a reformed, liberal Hinduism.

He was born in 1869 in Porbandar, India, and educated both in India and England. He went to South Africa as a young lawyer, was shocked by the racial discrimination, and led the African Indians in a nonviolent struggle against repression. Returning to India, he became a dominant political figure, and, in the struggle for independence, was jailed several times. His protests often took the form of fasts.

Durga PujaDurga Puja is one of the most important festivals in India. Durga Puja is more than a festival. It is a celebration of life, culture, popular customs and traditions. It is a time of reunion and rejuvenation to love, to share and to care. Durga puja is celebrated in the autumn months of September/October. According to the Hindu solar calendar, it falls on the first nine days of the month of Ashvin. Most of the religions follow either a solar calendar or a lunar calendar. For the Hindus, it is a combination of both. The days are counted on the basis of sun rise and sun set. But timings of all religious functions are based on the lunar month. The lunar month is divided into two halves, the full moon phase and the new moon phase. 

Accordingly the religious functions of the Hindu Bengalis are scheduled in sync with the timings of the moon's movement, better known as 'Tithhi'. The schedule of Durga Puja is also framed on the basis of the 'Tithhi'. The Devi Paksha or the fortnight in which the Puja falls sets in with the auspicious of the Mahalaya, which falls on the New moon. Mahalaya heralds the homecoming of the Mother Goddess as the tunes of Agamani fill the air. The four days of Pujas start from the sixth day of the full moon phase that follows the Mahalaya and ends up with the Dashami or the tenth day. Thus Dashami is four days short of the full moon night, called Kojagori Purnima. For, it is on this pious night the Kojagori Laxmi Puja is performed by most of the Bengali households.

NavratariDate:- 8 Oct.

Date : Navratri or the nine nights sacred to the Mother Goddess are celebrated in the month of October / November.

Legend : It commemorates the victory of Goddess Durga over a demon, Mahishasur. Endowed with power, by the blessing of Lord Shiva the demon started destroying innocent people. The gods invoked Goddess Durga and asked for her help. The goddess, astride a lion fought with the demon and cut off his head.

Practice : It is an occasion for vibrant festivities throughout the country. During Navratri, devotees of Durga fast and pray for health and prosperity. Different manifestations of Durga or Shakti are worshipped every night. Devotees and young enthusiasts dance the Garba or Dandiya-Raas throughout the night, in keeping with the exuberant nature of this festival.

DasaraDate:- 17 Oct.Dasara (a.k.a. Dusharah)  festival is celebrated typically in October. The mode and the fervor vary by a great deal across the subcontinent.

Different parts of India celebrate the festival in different ways. Some celebrate it as Navaratri, some as Vijaya-Dashami, and some as Dussehra, in worship of Goddess Durga or celebrating Rama's victory over Rawana. The celebrations vary from a day to nine days (for Navaratri) to a month (for Mysore Dasara). The following pictures depict some of the celebrations.This celebration starts from Navratri and ends with the tenth day festival of “Dussehra”. Navratri and Dussehra is celebrated throughout the country at the same time, with varying rituals, but with great enthusiasm and energy as it marks the end of scorching summer and the start of winter season.

The tenth day after Navratri is called Dussehra, on which number of fairs are organized throughout the northern India, burning effigies of Ravana.It is also called “Vijayadashmi

 

Diwali

Date:- 5 Nov.Diwali is regarded as one of the most important festival of the Hindu calendar. It is celebrated across the nation with great pomp and excitement. The festival is mainly associated with lights as it is called the festival of light. On the day of the festival diyas (small clay lamps) are lit in everybody's home irrespective of their social status. The name Diwali signifies 'rows of lighted lamps'. Diwali is a five-day festival, beginning on the 15th day of the Hindu calendar month of Kartika (Ashwin). By the Gregorian calendar, Diwali falls in October or November. Diwali marks the beginning of the Hindu and Gujarati New Year and is celebrated with the lighting of lamps and candles, and lots of fireworks. People decorate their home with beautiful diyas and making rangoli pattern in the courtyard and in front of the gate. They put flowers and mango leaves on their doors and windows. Diyas and candles are placed on rooftops, rooms, and kitchen and even in the bathrooms. On this day, people worship Lord Ganesha, the foremost of all Hindu Gods and Goddess Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth and Prosperity. It is time to exchange gifts and sweets with friends, relatives and neighbors. 

Pola Festival (celebrated in maharashtra)

Date:- 8 Sep.Pola Festival is celebrated throughout the state of Maharashtra, in the Hindu month of Shravan (that usually coincides August). It falls on day of Pithori Amavasya (new moon day) in Shravan. The festival marks the day when farmers worship their bulls and it is from the next day only that ploughing and sowing of fields is started. On the day before Pola Festival, farmers remove 'vesan' (the rope) from the nostrils of their bull. Thereafter, they apply a paste of turmeric powder and ground nut oil, on its shoulders.

Finally, the bull is given a hot water bath and served with khichadi, made of bajari. On the day of the festival, the bull is taken to the nearest river or pond and given a thorough bath. The farmers then paint the bull's horns and put colorful ornaments over them. Lastly, an ornamented shawl is put over the body of the bullocks and their neck is adorned with flower garlands. After decorating the bulls, the farmers worship them. Evening time is reserved for taking enthusiastic processions of all the bulls in the area, beautifully adorned, through the streets.

Id-du-ZuhaDate:- 17 Sep.Bakr-Eid ( Bakr-Id ) also known as Eid-Ul-Adha is one of the special festivals of Muslims and all the Muslims celebrate this festival with great enthusiasm. Bakr-Id is celebrated from the tenth to the twelfth day in the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah.This festival is known for sacrifice and is also known as “festival of sacrifice” and “sacrifice feast”. Its an occasion to give and to sacrifice. It is a day to thank the Almighty for one's good fortune and to share it with the less fortunate brethren.Popularly, Bakr-Id is marked by the slaughter of animals as sacrificial offerings, after which the meat is distributed among the needy and deprived. Id-ul-Zuha, or Id-ul-Azha, as it is called in Arabic, translates as 'the feast of sacrifice'. Popularly, Bakr-Id is marked by the slaughter of animals as sacrificial offerings, after which the meat is distributed among.

Tulsi Festival

Date:- 17 Nov.Tulasi Festival or Wedding of TulasiNo Hindu weddings can take place in a year until a ritual wedding of Tulasi (a.k.a. Tulsi, sweet basil plant) is performed. The festival occurs about two weeks after the Deepavali festival.The pot or the platform (also sometimes referred to as Tulasi) is decorated as a bride. Sugarcane and  leaves of tamarind and mango are planted along with the Tulasi plant. Various dishes are offered to Lord Vishnu and  ritual itself involves symbolic marrying of the plant with a rock (Saligrama, a symbol of Lord Vishnu).In some parts of India they burn fire crackers and distribute sweets.Tulsi vivah is celebrated on the day of Karthik Ekadashi. On this day Tulsi is married to Saaligram. 

The Tulsi plant is considered as a most sacred plant by the Hindus as it is regarded to be an incarnation of Mahalaxmi who was born as Vrinda.

The very name Tulsi, that which cannot be compared, the "incomparable one", has spiritually uplifting qualities. Tulsi has been found to possess extraordinary powers of healing.

Christmas

Date:- 25 Dec.

is a yearly festival that makes merry the Jesus birth. Christmas celebrations usually come together the memorial of ’birth of Jesus with different traditions, many of which have been affected by previous winter celebrations. Customs contain the show of Holly, Christmas trees and Nativity scenes, the exchange of cards and gifts and the coming of Santa Claus (Father Christmas) on Christmas morning or Christmas Eve. Famous Christmas themes contain the promotion of peace, goodwill and compassion.

Christmas day is commemorated on December 25 in different areas over the world. However, in several nations it is considered as Boxing Day and celebrated on December 26. The Armenian Apostolic Church celebrates this festival on January 6, the time on the Gregorian calendar that matches to 25 December on the Julian calendar.The term ‘Christmas’ is taken from the Old English.

New Year’s Eve

New Year symbolizes the rejuvenation time, coming year brings with it new dreams to be accomplished, goals to be achieved and wishes to be fulfilled. People around the globe celebrate New Year with lots of joy and excitement all around. Everyone bids farewell to the current passing year and welcomes the arriving New Year. It is an occasion when rejoicing bids farewell to the passing year with a grand welcome to the New Year.The time and celebration of New Year varies from region to region and religion to religion across the world. This is because people in different parts of the world use different calendars. Some calendars are based on the movement of the moon; others are based on the position of the sun, while others are based on both the sun and the moon. All over the world, there are special beliefs about New Year.Celebrations for the occasion start from 31st December eve only and blast to the zenith at the stroke of 12 midnight. People enjoy together with family and friends, having great time together in relishing lip-smacking food or dancing to the beats.The New Year comes with many traditions associated with it. Different regions of the world follow different practices on the day. The most commonly followed practices are adopting New Year’s resolution, exchanging gifts, lighting crackers at midnight and of course to wish luck and happiness to everyone by three magical words “ HAPPY NEW YEAR!”

Thank you!Compiled by Lion Amarjadevi A. HalgekarD.C. ‘National Festivals’