TravelIndiaGuru.com » Festivals in India

Onam Festival

admin — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 14:39:58 +0000

Onam is one of the famous festivals of South India. It is mainly celebrated with great enthusiasm in the Southern state of India, Kerala. Onam is a harvest festival and generally falls in the Malayalee month of Chingam (August-September) every year. There are a number of legends related to the festival. According to one of the famous legends, the legendary king of Kerala, Mahabali, pays a visit to Kerala every year during this festival and ensures the well being of the citizens of the state.

Celebrations of Onam in Kerala

The main purpose of celebrating Onam is to thank the God for good harvest, re-union of families and friends and the welcome of King Mahabali to the state. A number of rituals are followed in the ten day celebrations of Onam festival.

Apart from this, it is a time for various cultural and sports events in Kerala in which men, women and children take equal part. Some of the famous events include ‘Thumbi Thullai’ (fold dance performed by women), Pulikkali and Kaikotti Kalli. Snake boat race of Kerala (Uthratadhi Vallamkali) is one of the major events which is witnessed by a large number of visitors from far off places.

On one of the important days of Onam festival, Thiruvonam, a lavish feat is organised wherein friends and relatives enjoy the lip-smacking food and make merry. Some of the favourite cuisines include Payasam, Rasam, Sambhar, Thoran, Olan, Avial, Banana Halwa etc. Houses are well decorated during the Onam festival. Ladies make Rangoli with colours, rice flour and flowers in the front courtyard of their houses.

Major Attractions of Onam Festival

Some of the major games conducted during the Onam festival include Onakalikal, Talappanthukali, Kayyankali, Attakalam, Ambeyyal and Kutu Kutu. Apart from this, the royal elephant procession held in the cultural capital of Kerala, Thrissur, is one of the events which attracts a number of visitors to witness the event. Elephants are beautifully decorated with golden plates made with intricate designs, which are put on the forehead of elephants. Umbrellas made with silk and satin with long stem are put on the back of elephants which make the sight of the procession more attractive.

Pulikali artists paint their body beautifully in the form of a Tiger and entertains viewers by performing hunting scenes. Kathakali dance and Kalleri martial arts performances are other attractions of the festival.

Vallamkali Boat Race

The Snake Boat Race competition is one of the most enchanting attractions of the Onam festival which attracts a large number of viewers from various parts of the world. This competition is named after the first Prime Minister of India, Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru, who started the rolling trophy of Nehru Boat Race on his first visit to Kerala after the independence of India.

The beautiful boats made in the shape of a snake specially for the competition, are generally 100 feet long and have the sitting capacity of 150 men. The front portion of the boat is curled in the shape of Cobra Snake hood and the boat is made of ‘Anjli’ wood. The boats are well decorated with scarlet and green silk umbrellas, flower garlands, ornaments and tassels. Boat race is held on Pamba river at Aranmulla on the fifth day of Onam festival. Team members participating in the boat race include around 25 singers to boost the other 125 oarsmen.

Ramzan Eid

admin — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 14:28:17 +0000

One of the major Muslim festival Ramzan marks the end of fasting month Ramadan. It falls in the ninth Lunar month, according to Islamic Calendar, following the appearance of the new crescent moon.

The auspicious occasion is celebrated by Muslim community not only in India but all over the world.

The festival is a three day celebration and is also known as ‘Smaller Eid’. Pilgrims, in order to complete their fast on the last day of Ramadan, believe to read Quran and recite Takbir, all through out the time of Eid.

Soul Connecting Ramzan Rituals

Muslims rise up early in the morning and have date fruit, that declares the end of their fasting day. They then freshen up and visit the holy mosque and attend Eid prayer. The session consist of two raka’ahs, following Khutbah(sermon) and then supplication(dua) for the well-being of all living on the Earth. After prayer is many go back home while some pay homage to the graveyards(Ziyarat al-qubur)

The rituals in Id marks Takbir, which is recited after having seen the new moon on the first night of Shawwal. Following this the Eid-Prayer starts. A must follow rule says that every Muslim who is able to feed his breadbasket must pay Zakat al-fitr, an alms(basic food stuffs or money) to the needy for the month of Ramadan

Eid-ul-Fitr Celebration and Attraction

Both the children and elderly groups in Muslim community. They start polishing their houses and shopping accessories since the month of Ramadan. Exchange of greetings and gift hampers are greatly opted as a medium to wish ‘Id Mubaraq’. Home-makers and local food-stalls spread the sweet aroma of Seviyan and Shir Korma, made of milk and dates. Pious men spend their time with reading holy Quarn, while out goers celebrate the day with visiting the homes of friends and relatives. Visiting the capital Delhi during the time of Eid offers the chance to have a glimpse of Jama Masjid, the largest mosque, built in 1656 AD by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan

The day signifies the relation of forgiveness, friendship and emotion, therefore follow the saying of Allah and receive enlightenment.

Diwali

admin — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 14:02:46 +0000

Celebrated all over India, Diwali has its way back mythological saga of epic Ramayana. Devotees mark the festival as the successful return of Lord Rama along with his wife Sita and younger brother Laxman to Ayodhya. Mythic history still depicts the day and night of Lord Rama during his 14 years exile and the defeat of demon King Ravana. The essence is still felt when mind goes back, during the time when people of Ayodhya has decorated their homes and streets with clay lamps and has welcomed Lord. Since then the festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm, fun and love.

Another saying indicates the arrival of Goddess Lakshmi to her devotees home. As such , the day is calls for prior preparation, cleaning houses and surroundings and worshiping Goddesses to receive blessing of wealth and prosperity.

Soul Connecting Diwali Rituals:

Diwali is celebrated 21 days after Dussehera, during the month of October or November. It takes five days for the completion of rituals involved in the festival. The festival starts with Dhanteras, celebrated with buying new kitchen utensils, jewelery or some metallic articles. Devotees pray to Goa Yamraj, the King of Death to save their kith and kin from evil shadows or death.

The second day is called Narka or Choti Diwali, in which, devotes take early bath in traditional style (i.e massaging body with oil and then taking shower) and apply Kumkum on their foreheads.

The third day is dedicated to paying homage to Goddess Lakshmi, The day goes on with performing Poojas and signing devotional songs. Houses are decorated with rice flour resembling the small foot prints of the Goddess, following lighting earthen lamps, filled with oil/ghee and cotton wicks.

The forth day is devoted to perform Goverdhan Puja and following this the last day presents the celebration of Bhai Dooj. It highlights the strong brother-sister relationship. On the very day, sister keep fast until they smear their brother’s forehead with the holy tika.

Deepawali Celebration and Attraction:

The festival of light make the whole country look gorgeous with the glow of lamps, artificial bulbs and crackers. People exchange gifts, sweets and cards to make the day best in the whole year. Apart from this the main attractions of Diwali is Ramlilas, the dramatic presentation of Ramayana. The festival is greatly celebrated in the capital Delhi, where enthusiast arrange some areas for the functions. Make-shift stages are set up, that carries the huge effigies of demon King Ravana. The burning of the structures draws thousand attentions and is quite popular world-wide.

Almost all the companies, presents gift hampers and sweets to their employees. Exclusive offers are also exhibited by shopping malls and food stalls. Traditional Sweets like Jilabi, Besan Ladoo, Motichoor Ladoo, Boondi, Malpua etc are made by the homemakers. They are also available in packets at the sweet selling corners.

Staying in Delhi

On visiting Delhi, during Deepawali, one can stay at some popular staying places like Hotel Star Paradise, Hotel Shivam International, Hotel Star Villa, Taj Mahal Hotel, Hyatt Regency, Ambassador Hotel, InterContinental Eros, The Oberoi and Taj Palace Intercontinental. Many hotels organizes grand Diwali party, exclusively for their guest.

Reaching Delhi during Diwali

By Air:

Regular international and national flights are operated from the Indira Gandhi International Airport and Palam Domestic Airport.

By Rail:

The metro city, Delhi is well-connected with major Indian cities by means of trains operating to and from New Delhi Railway Station, Old Delhi Railway Station and Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station. Tourist can also enjoy the luxury of trains like Palace-on Wheel, Fairy Queen and Royal Orient Express serviced in New Delhi Cantonment Railway Station.

By Road:

The main highways and expressways to Delhi are connected by bus serviced from major bus terminals like Anand Vihar Bus Terminal, Kashmiri Gate Terminal and Sarai Kale Khan Terminal. Both private deluxe coaches and Delhi Transport buses ply over the inter-state routes.

Valentine’s Day

admin — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 13:55:15 +0000

Valentine’s day is celebrated in all the nook and corner of the world. This internationally acclaimed lovers day is falls every year on 14th February and lovers plan best to make the day a memorable one. The day also signifies the beginning of birds mating season, where the misty season of spring sprays the magical spell of love on all its creatures.

History of Valentine Day

Valentine’s Day rejoiced around the globe, has got its essence from 14th century, when Saint Valentine of Rome secretly engaged in arranging marriage of men and women. On being caught for his activity, he was sentenced to death on the very day. His sacrifice was glorified by the lovers of England, and France in the middle age and ornamented the day as ‘Valentine day’. As per history, the date is considered as an honor to the mythological queen of god and goddesses, ‘Judo ’ending up the day with festivity. Today, the gala received space in many countries with a blast of celebration; exchanging gifts and playing valentine games.

Valentine’s Celebration Ideas

Unlike religious festivity, Valentine’s day signifies the warmth of love between you and your soul mate. Unfold a few celebration ideas that will surely make your beloved feel special on the very day.

Go on a date, enjoy a candle-light dinner and share moments of love.

Surprise your valentine with extra gifts.

Throw a surprise Valentine’s Day party and distribute gifts to your kith and kins

Visit an orphanage, spend some time with children and gift them valentine goodies.

Cook your spouse favorite dishes and recreate love at home

Plan a tour to some romantic destinations in India like Goa, Kerala, Ooty, Shimla etc.

Mail e-cards, send gifts online and strengthen your long-distance relationship.

Valentine’s Gifts 2010

Around the world, the day symbolizes the emotions of love and the importance of the day can be felt in advance. Gift shops are clogged up by the people in quest of getting hold of the best collections for their loved ones. Luxury watch, cards, cuff links, bouquet of red roses and T-shirts are best gifts for men. While, women love to receive gifts like pearl and diamond jewelery, party dresses and chic purses.

Taj Mahotsav

admin — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 13:51:09 +0000

Taj City, Agra shimmers with the cultural extravaganza. The hues of jollification suggest sightseers to undertake an enthusiastic tour to Taj Mahal. An epitome of Mughal love offers the festive charm of Taj Mahotsav. The melody of musical notes mingles with the rhythm of cultural dances, hence captivating the heart of attendees.

Taj Mahotsav is organized by the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department. It was introduced in the year 1992. Since then, the festival is celebrated with great care and attractive programmes are arranged to popularize it world wide. A number of Elephants and Camels are bejeweled, hence recreating the wonder of erstwhile Mughal era. Master craftsmen, folk artist and drum beaters visit the place and try their utmost to unfurl the color of cultural in the great gala.

Scheduled Programmes in Taj Mahotsav

Cultural Programmes

The ten-day festival is held at Shilpagram in Agra. It brings into limelight the power of Indian art and craft in the form of folk dance and music, classical dance, shayari(poetry), cuisines and entertaining programmes. Dances of Dundelkhan, Snake dance of Rajasthan and Lavani of Maharashtra are prime attractions in Taj Mahotsav.

Craft Mela

Taj Mahotsav offers the chance to take back home a handful of creative artifacts. Woodcarvings of Saharanpur, Chikan work of Lucknow, Silk of Varanasi, Metal & Brass ware from Muradabad, Blue Pottery of Khurja, Carpets of Badohi are main highlights in the make-shift shops. In addition to these, home decor elements, contemporary jewelery, textiles with works of sequins, beads and embroidery are shoppers delight.

Food Festival

Of all the above mentioned attractions in Taj Mahotsav, the gourmet sections draws major attentions. Sumptuous cuisines of Uttar Pradesh pampers the taste buds of foodies. The menu in the food festival are broadly categorized into vegetarian and non-vegetarian delacies and each one promises to entice tourist visiting the city. Mughlai food, South Indian and North Indian dishes are cooked in immense variety.

SurajKund Mela

admin — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 13:46:29 +0000

Surajkund Fair in Faridabad. The Welcome Gates at the strategic location on roads highlights commencement of the fun-filled craft mela. Where tourist find interest in exploring every nook and corner of the fair ground; corporate business organizations, institution and traditional market find the location apt for showcasing themselves before public.

Surajkund Mela is conducted by the Department of Tourism Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Government of India in collaboration with Haryana Tourism, Development Commissioner for Handlooms, Commissioner Development. Since its introduction in 1981, the fair has gained immense popularity. This 24th Craft Mela is expected to live up to the expectation of travelers, visiting India.

Tourist Delight in Surajkund Mela

Cultural Entertainment:

The craft mela in Surajkund is a perfect occasion for those who desires to catch-hold of the vibrant culture of India. Folk dance and music competition are arranged in open air. Natyashala, a traditional form of theater is organized every evening since the starting day till the end date of the mela. Also, a study tour to festival ground helps students interact with the local folks and enhance their knowledge about Indian culture. Workshops, seminar, quiz and discussions are arranged for educational purposes.

Food Festival:

Surajkund Mela- a traditional festival in India offers tourist to taste the spicy gourmets, cooked in Punjabi, South Indian, Chinese and North Indian style. Foodies can relish at both vegetarian and non-vegetarian cuisines, available in varieties.

Shopping:

Surajkund Craft fair in Haryana acts a shopping paradise for tourist visiting North India. A number of temporary shopping corners are arranged, which displays some brilliant collections of handicrafts and textiles. Kantha traditional work of Tripura, lace and crochet garments of Goa, mirror and Chikan embroidered clothes of Lucknow, Chikki wood craft of Kashmir, souvenirs from West Bengal, Shital patti work from Assam, Phulkari embroidery of Punjab et al compel shoppers to empty their wallet.

The publicity of Surajkund Mela is at acme. Hoardings, leaflets and Internet has already started to display information about the fair. Its prime time to know about the entry tickets and family passes to be used to enter the mela ground.

Mahayana Buddhists New Year

admin — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 13:40:27 +0000

Buddhist in the Mahayana countries welcomes new year on 30th January. A number of activities are performed and people make best effort to wash away gloomy moments of past year and aim at making a fresh start.

History of Mahayana Buddhism

Mahayana Buddhism talks a lot about the origin of Mahayana. Accordingly, it is one of the two prime divisions of Buddhism. History says, that the Mahayana movement has its strong connection with the origin of Lord Gautam Buddha. It originated in India in 1st century CE and was sub-divided into early Mahayana Buddhism and Late Mahayana Buddhism.

Buddhist New Year Celebration in Mahayana Countries

Buddhist in Mahayana countries (Tibet, China, Mongolia, Vietnam, Korea, Japan, Nepal and Indonesia) celebrate new year with great enthusiasm. It is declared depending ethnic environment of the people residing in the mentioned countries. In Mahayana countries, it falls on the first full moon day in the month of January. Besides, some Tibetans celebrate New Year in the month of February i.e a month later than the Lunar New Year.

Interestingly, there is no sacred narrative devoted to Mahayana Buddhism. Fact file on the lives and activities of buddhas, boddhisattvas, female deities and monks are the only truth, which explain the Mahayana doctrine and practice. People call the occasion as Spring Festival and as such organizes many cultural programmes. Grand feast with the menu of traditional food is the major attraction.

Buddhist follow certain customs to celebrate the New Year. On the very day, women take a religious bath, while men wait for 24 hours until the New Year’s Eve. A traditional food “Gutu” (a thick soup made from dough) is cooked and served hot to the family members.

Cultural events and ceremonies highlights the diverse religion, caste and creed existing in the world. Unlike the common new year celebration, Buddhist in the Mahayana countries welcomes new year on 30th January. A number of activities are performed and people make best effort to wash away gloomy moments of past year and aim at making a fresh start.
Histroy of Mahayana Buddhism Mahayana Buddhism talks a lot about the origin of Mahayana. Accordingly, it is one of the two prime divisions of Buddhism. History says, that the Mahayana movement has its strong connection with the origin of Lord Gautam Buddha. It originated in India in 1st century CE and was sub-divided into early Mahayana Buddhism and Late Mahayana Buddhism.

Buddhist New Year Celebration in Mahayana CountriesBuddhist in Mahayana countries (Tibet, China, Mongolia, Vietnam, Korea, Japan, Nepal and Indonesia) celebrate new year with great enthusiasm. It is declared depending ethnic environment of the people residing in the mentioned countries. In Mahayana countries, it falls on the first full moon day in the month of January. Besides, some Tibetans celebrate New Year in the month of February i.e a month later than the Lunar New Year.
Interestingly, there is no sacred narrative devoted to Mahayana Buddhism. Fact file on the lives and activities of buddhas, boddhisattvas, female deities and monks are the only truth, which explain the Mahayana doctrine and practice. People call the occasion as Spring Festival and as such organizes many cultural programmes. Grand feast with the menu of traditional food is the major attraction.
Buddhist follow certain customs to celebrate the New Year. On the very day, women take a religious bath, while men wait for 24 hours until the New Year’s Eve. A traditional food “Gutu” (a thick soup made from dough) is cooked and served hot to the family members.

Maha Shivratri

admin — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 13:35:19 +0000

Chant the sacred ‘Om Namay Shiva’ and devote your day and night in worshiping the Supreme Power, Lord Shiva. Maha Shivratri, a religious occasion for Hindus, falls on the 6th night of the dark Phalgun (Feb or March) every year. Ardent devotees of the Lord celebrate the festival with performing rituals, chanting Shiva Chalisa and singing melodious Bhajans whole night.

History/Legend of Maha Shivratri

A number of mythological story connects the festival of Maha Shivratri. A common legend is about the marriage of Lord Shiva and his consort, Goddess Shakti. Accordingly, Goddess Parvati performed tapas on the moonless night for the prosperity and well-being of her husband, Lord Shiva. Since then, the day came was marked in the Hindu mythological calendar. Following the past, till date women folk carry the custom of praying to the Lord and hence receive blessing for their husbands and sons. It is believed girls who keep fast on Shivratri are blessed with ideal soul-mates.

Maha Shivratri Rituals

Maha Shivratri holds great significance for women of Hindu religion. Both married and unmarried women observe fast dedicated to Lord Shiva. On the very day, devotees take a ritual sunrise bath and visit temples of Lord Shiva. They offer honey, milk, holy water, fruits and flowers to the Shiva Linga. Each offering is followed with chanting mantras. The ritual is known as giving scared bath to the Lord. Many devotees follow the prescribed words in the holy Shiva Purana and as such perform the said ritual in every three hours. Vermillion paste is applied on the linga, following offering of bilwa fruit and leaves, which should have a complete stalk with three leaves. The linga puja completes after lighting ‘ ghee-filled earthen diyas, incense sticks and performing Shiv aarti.

Maha Shivratri Festival Celebration

Maha Shivratri is traditionally celebrated in different parts of India. Devotees start decorating the abodes of Lord Shiva, one week prior to the festival day. The temple areas get extended, as devotees spend whole night in worshiping the Lord. Sound of bells, holy hymns and verses led spiritual feeling fuse into the aura. Women dressed in new clothes (preferably traditional saree and salwar-suits)engage themselves in preparing and offering special food to the Lord. The fasting session concludes with distribution of prassad. Thandai, Lauki ki halwa, Sweet Yam, Sago Saboodana, Kheer and Kaju Barfi are a few festival recipes prepared during Maha Shivratri.

Khajuraho Dance Festival

admin — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 13:25:09 +0000

Enjoy a walk through the temples in Khajuraho and love to attend the popular Dance Festival. The auspicious occasion highlights the monolithic architecture of the shrines, erected between 900 and 1150. The creative craftsmanship talks a lot about the erstwhile Hindu Chandela Empire and the festival time pave the way to explore it from the closest point.

Khajuraho Dance Festival is organized in an open air-auditorium, with the divine Chitragupta Temple at its backdrop. It welcomes artists and performers of recognized fields and offer them the wide platform to showcase their talent. The intricate footwork of Kathak, the sophisticated steps of Bharatnatyam and the soft lyrics presents a rainbow of art and culture. For the past few years, the event has started to highlight modern dancers and craftspersons from different walks of life.

Madhya Pradesh

Kala Parishad keep no stone unturned to make the dance festival a memorable one. They invite renowned personalities from all over the world and schedule programmes accordingly.

Solo dances with the theme of Bharatnatyam, Mohiniattam and Kuchipudi expresses the power of individualism. The attractive Odissi and Manipuri group dance leave spectators without a blink of eyes. Kathakali dance by experts compel one to try out the movement of eyebrows at least once. Duet performances

Reaching Festival Venue in Madhya Pradesh

Khajuraho is 395km from Agra, 350 km from Bhopal, 280 km from Gwalior, 480 km from Indore and 210 km from Jabalpur. It can be accessed easily by means of air, rail or road.

By Air:

Regular flights connects Khajuraho with Delhi(35 minutes), Agra(40 minutes) and Varanasi(45 minutes)

By Rail:

Indirect rail routes connects Khajuraho with Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Varanasi and Jhansi

By Road:

State transport buses and private coaches connects Khajuraho with Jhansi, Harpalpur, Mahoba and Satna.

Holi

admin — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 13:20:23 +0000

Unveil euphoria this Holi. The bewildering shades with countless tinge witness the love and devotion existing in the society. Playing with colors, bonfire celebration and exchange of sweets commemorates the festival spirit. It falls in the month of March and is celebrated in every nook and corner of India. The gaiety burns evil in the name of Holika and spreads joy in the form of colors.

History/Legend of Holi

The celebration of Holi carries the faith of million of devotees. A common belief lies in the mythological story of Prahlad and Holika. Legend has it that Prahlad, an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu was the son of demon king Hiranyakashyap. The king was egoistic and wanted everybody of his kingdom to worship him instead of the Almighty. His father was tired of his son’s devotion towards Lord Vishnu and so, asked his sister, Holika to take Prahlad in her lap and sit upon the burning fire logs. Holika was blessed with a boon, that fire will go untouched. But, she was not aware of the fact that fire would not harm her, unless she enters alone. Ultimately, Prahlad came out unharmed and Holika was burn to ashes. Thus, the incident marked the victory of good over evil.

Other remarkable legends of holy are of Kaamdeva, Dhundhi, Radha-Krishna and Pootana.

Festival Ritual

Holi is one of the major traditional affairs for Hindus. On the auspicious occasion, burning Holika is religiously performed. People pay homage before ‘Agni Dev’ the God of Fire by offering, cow-dung, stalks and grams. Devotees arrange bonfire on the last day of the festival. They believe, that the ritualistic activity is a way to destroy evil powers, like diseases, social dispute etc. Further, it said that the warmth of the fire blesses them with good health.

Many pilgrims start performing rituals on the eve of Holi. Bright colors, specially red and pink are offered to God and Goddesses. People in South India follow the legend of Kaamdeva and so believe to worship him on the very festival.

Holy Celebration Ideas

The joy of playing with colors and gulals attracts people, irrespective of societal discrimination. Where some engage themselves in preparing sweet dishes like malpaus, gujiya, mathri etc, many make crazy celebration ideas with colors. On the main day Dhuleti, people let the joy touch the sky. Children start collecting ‘Pichkaris’ and water-balloons early one week before Holi.

Festival party sprays unlimited fun with the tunes of Bollywood song. Special thandai mixed with bhang enhance the festive mood. A visit to Mathura and Vrindavan offers the real charm of Holi. Burning ‘Holika’ is greatly followed in Gujarat and Orissa. People in North India make effigies of Holika and burn all in the huge bonfire. The festive aura reverberates with the loud saying of ‘Holi Hai!.

Besides, Holi turns out to be memorable with exchange of cards, gifts, SMS and lot more. Sharing festive feeling with kith and kin helps build a bond of love. Now-a-days, mailing e-cards is the best way to surprise your dear ones’ staying far away yet close to your heart.