Festivals in India

Festivals in India are an integral part of people's life. Festivals of India portray the rich cultural heritage of the country. Here is a spectrum of Indian festivals/fairs and their significance.

National Festivals

Gandhi Jayanti : celebrates the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi popularly known as the Father of the Nation. Born on the 2nd of October 1869 at Porbandar in Gujarat. He is known for his invaluable contribution in India's freedom struggle.

Independence Day : 15th August the red-letter day in the Indian calendar is celebrated as the Independence Day of India. The date commemorates the day when India achieved freedom from the British rule in the year 1947. It has been a long journey for India 1947. After more than two hundred years of British rule, India finally won backs its freedom on 15th August, 1947.

Republic Day : On 26th of January every year India celebrates its Republic Day. It is one of the national holidays of India and regarded as the most important day in the Indian history as it was on this day in 1950 the constitution of India came into force and India became a truly sovereign state.

Muslim Festivals

Id-ul-Fitr (Ramzan) : Id Ul Fitr is a festival that marks the end of the Ramzan period, and usually falls on a new moon night, in the month of April or May. Ramzan is the ninth month in the Muslim calendar. According to legend, the Holy Koran was revealed in this month. Ramzan is thus regarded as highly auspicious month and fasting and prayers mark it. Muslims keep a fast every day during Ramzan. The rituals associated with Id and Ramzan have remained unchanged for centuries. Muslims through out the world and in India observe fast throughout this month and eat and drink only in the night. All types of entertainments and ceremonies are shunned during this period as it is exclusively meant to dedicate oneself to Allah and show devotion by prayers at all the prescribed times, reciting Quran and celebrating nights with feasts and family get- together. Eid is the time for celebration and marks the happiness or festivity for the men and women who follow the doctrines of Islam. On the day of the festival Muslims gather in large groups at mosques, and offer their prayers or namaz. Id is one of the most important sacred festivals in the Muslim religion. Muslim people from all strata of the society dress up in new clothes to celebrate Id with great enthusiasm. Everybody greet each other on this day. Special dishes are prepared on this day to mark the festive occasion. Women prepare delicious sweetmeats at home, and vermicelli kheer (sweetened milk) is a popular dish

People also do a lot of charity on this auspicious day as a part of the festive rituals. Muslims in India give gifts in kind or cash to the needy and poor. The first Eid of the year is known as 'Eid-al-fitr' meaning 'breaking the fast'. The reason behind keeping fast during Ramadan refers to the legend of the Prophet Mohammed who left Mecca and undertook the journey to Medina in 622 AD, to join the other Muslims who had migrated to Medina to escape persecution in Mecca. During this period, he fasted for three days. Many years later, He was to receive a revelation from God, which stated that all followers of the Islam faith fasted for a certain number of days. According to Islamic belief fasting helps to develop self-control and a means of coming closer to Allah. It purifies one's soul. The festival is a day of joy and thanksgiving. The Muslims with great fanfare celebrate it. In India even Hindus also participate in the celebration 

Id-Ul-Alha(Bakri-Id) : There are various festivals in the Muslim calendar. But Bakriid or Id-ul-Zuha is one of the most celebrated festivals among Muslims all over the world. It is a day of sacrifice for the Muslims. According to legends. It all started with a dream in which Allah directed the patriarch Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son Ismail. It was Ibrahim's faith in Allah and his son's faith in his father that were on test. Before performing the sacrifice Ismail tied a cloth around his father's eyes. But when Ibrahim opened his eyes he found his son safe and sound. In his place lay a dead dumba or ram. It is in honour of this test of faith that Muslims around the world sacrifice an animal on the occasion of Id-ul-azha to show their allegiance, faith and sincerity towards Allah. In India the Muslims mainly sacrifice the goat, which is why the occasion is spoken of in Urdu as Bakhr or Bakri-Id. The festival is to celebrate the strong faith of those devoted to Islam.

The festival coincides with the anniversary of the day when 'Quran' was declared complete. It is from when many Muslims undertake Haj to Mecca and people offer prayers in mosques. On the day of Id, the pilgrims reach the grounds of Mina where they sacrifice an animal each. It was here that Ibrahim is believed to have sacrificed his son. The pilgrims then shave their heads. The purpose is to be one with the millions of devotees who converge to Mecca each year for the Haj. The sacrificial meat is distributed after the ceremony among friends and family members. Special delicacies and sweets are prepared on the occasion. The celebration of Bakri Id starts from the tenth to the twelfth day in the Islamic month of Dhu'l Hijja. On the Id day people wear new clothes, offer prayers, and visit each other and exchange greetings. There are special prayers, which take places on the three days of Id. Ceremonial prayers, and feasts are part of this festival.

Barah Wafat (Miladi Nabi) : Id-e-Milad is a festival of both rejoicing and mourning. The festival of Id-e-Milad popularly known as Barah Wafat the twelfth day is one of the important festival in the Muslim calendar. The day commemorates the birth and also the death anniversary of Prophet Mohammed. It falls on the twelfth day of the third month Rabi-ul-Awwal of the Muslim calendar, which is usually in September and October. The word 'barah' signifies the twelve days of the Prophet's sickness. During these twelve days, priests and learned men deliver sermons and Koranic texts in mosques, focusing on the life and noble deeds of the Prophet. In some parts of the country, a ceremony known as sandal rites performed over the symbolic footprints of the Prophet engraved in stone. It is considered auspicious to offer prayers and give alms on this day.

In India, however, the celebrations mainly consist of street processions and functions. Where Nats (poems praising the Prophet and his noble deeds) are sung and scholars preach sermons on the life and teachings of the Holy Prophet. In some parts of the country, a 'sandal' rite is also performed. Prophet Mohammed, son of Abdul Muttalib, of the Qureysh tribe, was born at Mecca in 570AD. From about 610 AD, he began to receive revelations sent down from Allah through angel Gabriel. He spread the word among people, and soon had a small community of followers. Later Islam became one of the most popular religions of the world. In 632 AD, Prophet Muhammad went on a pilgrimage to Mecca followed by thousands of his devotees, where he preached his farewell sermon and later left the mortal world forever. The festival mainly commemorates the teachings and beliefs of Prophet Mohammed 

Christian Festivals

India is a land of various religions and muliple cultures. Alongwith Hindu, Mulism and Sikh festivals, Christian festivals are also celebrated with deity and devotion in different parts of India. Let's have a look on different Christian festivals in India and their significance.

Christmas : The festival of Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and conveys his message of love, tolerance and brotherhood. It's a celebration of humanity and mankind. Though Christmas is a primary festival of the Christian calendar but still it has a special significance in everyone's life. It is celebrated as a universal festival through out the nation. The first mention of 25th December as the birth date of Jesus occurred in 336 A.D. in an early Roman calendar. That day onwards this date is celebrated as the birth date of Jesus. In India this festival has a special significance since India is known for its unity in diversity worldwide.

Easter : Easter, also known as Pascha , the Feast of the Resurrection, the Sunday of the Resurrection or the Resurrection Day, is the most important religious feast of the Christian Calendar. Easter is observed between late March and late April (early April to early May in East). Easter celebrates the resurrection of Jesus, which occurred after his death by crucifixion. In the Catholic Church, Easter is actually an eight-day feast called the Octave of Easter.

Good Friday : Good Friday, anniversary of Jesus' death on the cross. According to the Gospels, Jesus was put to death on the Friday before Easter Day. Since the early church Good Friday has been observed by fasting and penance. In the Orthodox, Roman Catholic, and Anglican traditions, the celebration of the Eucharist is suspended; liturgical service involves veneration of the cross, the Passion narrative from the Gospel of St. John, and communion using bread and wine consecrated the previous day, Maundy Thursday. Other forms of observance include prayer and meditation at the Stations of the Cross, a succession of 14 images, usually on wooden crosses, depicting Christ's crucifixion and the events leading up to it.

Christmas : The festival of Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and conveys his message of love, tolerance and brotherhood. It's a celebration of humanity and mankind. Though Christmas is a primary festival of the Christian calendar but still it has a special significance in everyone's life. It is celebrated as a universal festival through out the nation. The first mention of 25th December as the birth date of Jesus occurred in 336 A.D. in an early Roman calendar. That day onwards this date is celebrated as the birth date of Jesus. In India this festival has a special significance since India is known for its unity in diversity worldwide. The celebration of Christmas shows that even people from different religion takes part in Christmas celebration just as the Indian Christians do. And because of European influence on the country for so long the religion has spread across the country. The doctrines and philosophies of Christianity converted people of many sects to Christianity and today, there is a large Christian community thriving in India that has adopted the Christians festivals as a part of Indian culture as well. However, many of the rituals of these Christian festivals have been modified to suit the climatic conditions of the land.

Christmas is the most important festival of Indian Christians. Christians in India decorate banana or mango trees instead of traditional pine tree. They also light small oil-burning lamps as Christmas decorations and fill their churches with red flowers. As a part of their celebration they give Christmas gifts to their family members and token of money to poor people as charity. People decorate their houses and churches with poinsettia flowers for the midnight mass. In South India, the Christians put small clay lamps on the rooftops and walls of their houses at Christmas, just as the Hindus do during their festival called Diwali. In Goa, all hotels are jampacked during Christmas period and one must plan well in advance if planning a stay in one of the Goa hotels. The local Indian customs and tradition and customs have a heavy impact on the Indian Christian. And this is visible in their decoration as many Indian Christians decorate their houses with mango leaves. Churches often have an Evening Service on Christmas and are fabulously decorated with poinsettias and candles. Caroling processions on streets and thoroughfares can also be seen

Hindu Festivals

Diwali : 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.

Due to India's varied cultural diversity there are many manifestations of the Diwali festival. The festival begins with Dhanteras, a day set aside to worship the goddess of prosperity, Goddess Lakshmi. On this day, homes are cleaned and paintings are done. There are various legends associated with the celebration of Diwali. But people mostly associate the celebration with the legend of Lord Ram returning to his kingdom of Ayodhya after fourteen years of exile and defeating Ravana, the demon king. In Bengal, the celebration is marked with the worship of Goddess Kali. People celebrate Kali puja with great fervor and enthusiasm. Joy and festivity reins every corner of the nation during the Diwali season. Diwali festival is the one Hindu festival that unites the whole of India. The exchange of sweets and the explosion of fireworks customarily accompany the celebration of the festival. Diwali is an occasion for cheerfulness and togetherness. This is that time of the year when people of all age and all class take part in its celebration.

Deepawali Celebrations : The festival of Diwali reminds us of the festive season of joy, splendor, enthusiasm and happiness. It is the festival of lights and is celebrated with great excitement by all Indians all over the world. The uniqueness of the festival is that it is celebrated for five days and each of the days has a special significance and importance. Each of the five days is based of five varied philosophies, with each day to a special thought or ideal. The first day of Diwali is called the Dhanteras, Dhanwantari Triodasi or Dhantryaodashi, which falls on the thirteenth day of the month of Ashwin. On this day, Lord Dhanwantari came out of the ocean with Ayurveda for mankind. This day marks the beginning of Diwali celebrations. On this day at sunset offerings are made of sweets during worship time to Lord Yama (the Lord of Death) for the protection from untimely death. It is mainly done near a Tulsi tree (basil tree) or any other sacred tree.

The second day is called the Narak Chaturdasi. It is the Choti Diwali celebration. On this day Lord Krishna killed the demon Narakasur and made the world free from evil power. It falls on the fourteenth lunar day of the dark fortnight of the month of Kartik and the eve of Diwali. The third and the most important day of Diwali is marked with Lakshmi Puja. It is the main day of celebration. On this day Goddess Laxmi is worshipped. All the Hindu family clean their house and themselves and join with their families and relative the puja of divine Goddess Lakshmi to achieve the blessings of wealth and prosperity, the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. Diwali marks the last day of financial year in traditional Hindu business and businessmen perform Chopda Pujan on this day on the new books of accounts. Any new business or venture starts with Diwali puja. The fourth day of Diwali is called Padwa or VarshaPratipada and Govardhan Puja, that marks the coronation of King Vikramaditya and Vikaram-Samvat was started from this Padwa day. On this day, Govardhan Pooja is performed. Many thousands of years ago, Lord Krishna caused the people of Vraja to perform Govardhan Pooja. From that time onwards every year Hindus worship Govardhan. This day is also observed as Annakoot and prayers are offered in the temples. The fifth day of Diwali is celebrated as Bhai Duj or Bhratri Dooj. This is the day after Goverdhan Pooja is performed and normally two days after Diwali. It is a day dedicated to brothers and sisters. The rituals are more or less like Raksha Bandhan where the sisters pray for the well being of their brothers. The celebration of Bhai Dooj marks the end of the five days of Diwali celebrations. This is also known as Bhai fota among Bengalis. Bhai fota is an event especially among Bengalis when the sister prays for her brother's safety, success and well-being

Dhanteras : Dhanteras is an important part of Diwali celebrations. Dhanteras marks the first day of Diwali celebrations. Dhanteras is also called Dhanvantari Trayodashi. It falls on the thirteenth lunar day of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartik (October-November). The word 'Dhan' signifies money or wealth. On the day of Dhanteras, people worship the Goddess of Wealth (Goddess Lakshmi). Since Dhanteras is associated with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, it is a very important celebration in the homes of the mercantile community. In India, houses and market places wear a festive look on the day of Dhanteras and market places are abuzz with people all around.

Legends of Dhanteras
Like most of the Indian festivals, Dhanteras too has some legends associated with its celebration. Let's have a look at some of the popular legends that are associated with this Dhantears celebration.

Legend of Dhanwantari
Churning of ocean (Samudramanthan) by Gods and demons forms an important part of the Hindu mythology. It is believed that during the churning of ocean by Gods and demons, Lord Dhanvantari (the Physician of Gods) emerged out with a jar of Amrit (elixir) on the day of Dhanteras. Thus, the worship of Lord Dhanvantari has become a part of Dhanteras celebrations in most of the home.

Legend of Yamadeep Daan Ritual
According to this legend, the sixteen-year-old son of King Hima was doomed to die of snakebite on the fourth day of his marriage. Aware of the forecast about her husband, the intelligent wife of the young prince made a plan to save her husband. On the predicted day, the wife made all arrangements so that her husband did not fall asleep. Bedsides this, she also put all her silver and gold ornaments at the entrance of the door and illuminated the whole place with lamps and lights. To insure that the husband did not sleep, the wife sang and narrated stories all through the night.

Lord Yama, the mythological God of Death, arrived in the guise of a serpent but the illumination caused by lights dazzled his eyes and he was not able to enter the room of the young prince. The legends have it that the serpent, mesmerized by the melodious songs of the Princess's wife, sat on the heap of ornaments and spent the night and went away in the morning. Thus, the Prince was saved by the illumination of the lamps and devotion of his wife. This legend led to the popularization of the tradition of 'Yamadeep Daan'. It is due to this reason, lamps and diyas are kept burning all through the night on Dhanteras.

Rituals and Celebrations of Dhanteras
As Dhanteras is associated with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, people draw small footprints with rice flour and vermilion powder throughout the house right from the entrance (indicating the arrival of Goddess Lakshmi). As Dhantrayodashi or Dhanteras is considered very auspicious, people shop for gold, silver and some utensils. To celebrate the auspicious arrival of Goddess Lakshmi, the homes of people are illuminated by oil lamps, which are lit throughout the night. Lakshmi Puja is also an important part of the Dhanteras celebrations. The Lakshmi-Puja is performed at midnight. Devotional songs, in praise of Goddess Lakshmi, are sung by the people. Goddess Lakshi is offered naivedya of sweets, which serve as the auspicious Prasad of the Goddess. In many parts of South India, there is a tradition of cow worship by the farmers (on Dhanteras). For farmers, cows signify wealth and are considered to be the incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi.

Diwali Gifts : Thinking of Diwali we think of Diwali gifts, sweets and firecrackers. It is the most famous and important festival in the Hindu calendar. All Indians not only in our country but abroad celebrate it with great enthusiasm and joy too. It is regarded as the festival of lights. The festival is celebrated in different manner through out the nation. But the universal theme behind its celebration is intact across the country. The uniqueness of Diwali festival is its harmony of five varied philosophies, with each day to a special thought or idea and belief. It is the time to socialize met friends and relatives. If somebody is staying abroad away from home than they come to met during this festive season exchange gifts and share home-cooked meals. The festivities surrounding Diwali encourage people to gather and socialize. Diwali is the time to exchange gifts and enjoy. It's the time to gift your loved one gift that they will enjoy. Diwali gifts spread joy, splendor, brightness and happiness.

Diwali is known throughout the world for it's celebratory fervor. Jewellery, new clothes, fresh flowers and offerings of traditional sweets sum up a typical Indian celebration. Diwali is one such occasion where this particular description would fit perfectly. One of the most colorful and vibrant of the Indian festivals, people visits the places of their relatives and friends to wish them on the occasion of Diwali and exchange gifts. Gifts can be in any form depending on the budget and to whom you are gifting. Before selecting the gift you should know whom you are giving and what are its likes and dislikes. If you are giving anything to your brother it can be from clothes to perfumes to electronic goods to accessories like watches. For sisters it can be saris, dress materials, perfumes, jewellery or anything of her choice. Flowers, chocolates and traditional sweets are an all time favorite. You can choose from a varied range available in the market or you can make sweets at home. Neighbors and friends drop in and it is customary to exchange gifts. For the business associates it could be something in silver or gold coin or leather goods, for the daughter-in-law a sari or a piece of jewellery, for the son may be a watch, a camera or even electronic goods can be a good option. Exchange of gifts in Diwali is now a custom. It is not necessary that you have to gift expensive items but it is important to show your concern and feelings for the other person. Since Diwali signifies fun, love and enjoyment.

When is Diwali : Whenever we talk of Diwali festival the first think that comes to our mind is when Diwali is celebrated or the date of the festival. Normally according to the Hindu calendar the festival of Diwali, which is celebration of truth and light is celebrated on a nation-wide scale on Amavasya, the 15th day of the dark fortnight of the Hindu month of Ashwin (Aasho), which is usually the month of October or November every year. Here are list of dates for the coming Five years of Diwali Festival. They are as follows:

In 2008, Diwali will be celebrated on 28th October 2008.
In 2009, Diwali will be celebrated on 17th October 2009.
In 2010, Diwali will be celebrated on 5th November 2010.

Diwali Recipes : The festival of Diwali gives us the license for fun and revelry. During the festive season of Diwali, India dresses up in a new look of fun and feasts. Diwali is the time for decorating your house with earthen lamps called diya, wearing new clothes, bursting firecrackers, meeting family and friends and of course enjoying the delicious items of sweets and snacks prepared specially for this occasion. People make colorful rangoli patterns in front of their house to give a festive look, special Diwali recipes are made and even gift items and greeting cards. Weeks before Diwali, every Hindu family is busy painting and decorating their homes, and shopping for gifts and preparing new dishes. On the Diwali day, shops are packed with people buying freshly made sweets. You can choose from a wide variety of sweets available in the market ranging from dry fruit sweets to special Diwali sweets.

Here are some recipes for sweets, which you can try at home as they are easy to make and fast to cook. You can try out these dishes and serve to your guests on the festive day.

Pongal :

Pongal is regarded as a harvest festival of South India. It is one of the most important and popular Hindu festivals. The four-day long harvest festival of Tamil Nadu, Pongal is all about thanksgiving to nature and takes its name from the Tamil word meaning "to boil" and is held in the month of Thai (January-February) it is celebrated from January 13 to 16 every year. The festival marks a period of plenty, peace and happiness. While each of its days has a special religious significance, most urban people celebrate second day as the main festival. Pongal is the only festival of Hindu that follows a solar calendar. On the first day known as Bhogi, people clean out their homes thoroughly and in the evening, all unwanted goods are lit in a bonfire. The second day is Perum Pongal, the most important. It is also called Surya Pongal because people worship Surya, the Sun God and his consorts, Chaya and Samgnya. Women decorate the central courtyard of their homes with beautiful kolams, done with rice flour and bordered with red clay. The third day, Mattu Pongal, is meant to offer thanks to the cows and buffaloes, as they are used to plough the lands. Jallikattu, a violent taming the bull contest, marks this day. On the last day, Kanum Pongal, people go out to picnic. During the Pongal season, people eat sugar canes and decorate the houses with Kolam. 'Ponga' literally means overflowing and is named so because of the tradition of cooking the new rice in pots until they overflow, which is symbolic of abundance and prosperity.

The festival of Pongal is mainly associated with the rural people. People wish each other on this day. Pongal wishes are exchanged between family and friends, and there are celebrations within the family. As one stand on the threshold of the harvest season, everyone exchange Pongal wishes, hoping that it brings the harbinger of good luck, good fortune and good cheer. The festival of Pongal is held dear particularly by the farming community as it marks the end of harvesting season.

Four Days of Pongal : 

Pongal is a harvest festival, which lasts for four days. It is celebrated across India by different names. Pongal, a harvest festival is celebrated in the month of Shravan. Pongal literally means, "boiling over". The Tamil harvest festival is celebrated with decorated cows, processions and decorative Rangoli. Pongal is a dish, which is a sweet porridge made from newly harvested rice and eaten by all, even the animals. Each day of this festival has a special significance and importance; however, it is celebrated more grandly and elaborately in the villages, while the city people mainly celebrate on the second day only. It is widely celebrated in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. The festival is celebrated for four days. On, the first day, Bhogi, the old clothes and materials are thrown away and fired, marking the beginning of a new life. The second day is Perum Pongal, the most important. It is also called Surya Pongal because people worship Surya, the Sun God and his consorts, Chaya and Samgnya. Women decorate the central courtyard of their homes with beautiful kolams, done with rice flour and bordered with red clay. There are several legends associated with Perum Pongal.

The third day, Mattu Pongal, is meant to offer thanks to the cows and buffaloes, as they are used to plough the lands. Jallikattu, a violent taming the bull contest, marks this day. On the last day, Kanum Pongal, people go out to picnic. During the Pongal season, people eat sugar canes and decorate the houses with Kolam. Even though Pongal was originally a Harvest festival, today all celebrates it. Coinciding with Makara Sankranti and Lohri of the north, it is also called Pongal Sankranti and thus celebrated in some form in various parts of India. The four days of the festival are as follows:

• Bogi Festival
• Surya Pongal
• Mattu Pongal
• Thiruvalluvar Day / Kaanum Pongal

Pongal Customs : It is true that our country is progressing and in spite of urbanization, the traditions and customs attached to the harvest festival of Pongal has not changed. Though the way of celebration has changed but the traditions and customs attached to it is still intact. The way we celebrate the festivals, for instance varies with the time and place. The festival of Pongal captures the quintessence of south Indian culture in all its entirety and traditional practices and customs continue to hold their own even today. The new crop, which is harvested is cooked and offered to the God. The festival is celebrated for four days. The various customs and traditions attached with the harvest festival are as follows:

The first day of Pongal known as 'Bhogi Pongal' is a day for family gathering and is dedicated to Lord Indra, the king of the Gods and God of the Clouds and Rains. Offerings are made to him to please him so that he blesses good harvest. It is also marks the beginning of the New Year according to the Malayalam calendar and before sunrise, a huge bonfire of useless things in home is lit that is kept burning throughout the night. The houses are cleaned and painted and are decorated with Kolams painted using rice four. The harvest of rice, turmeric and sugarcane is brought in for next day. The second day of Pongal known as 'Surya Pongal' is dedicated to the Sun God. Special dish are cooked on this day in a new mud-pot that comes in innovative shapes and have artistic designs on them called 'Pongapani'. A colorful sugarcane market is also set up on this day. The special dish is called 'Sarkkarai Pongal' and is offered to Sun God with sugarcane sticks. The third day of the festival is known as 'Mattu Pongal' and is dedicated to the cattle as cowherds and shepherds pay thanks to their cows and bulls. Cattle races are conducted and in the game called 'Manji Virattu' groups of young men chase running bulls. Bull fights called 'Jallikattu' are also arranged at some places. Lord Ganesha and Goddess Parvati are also worshipped on this day. At some other places, this day is celebrated as Kanu Pongal when girls feed colored balls of cooked rice to the birds and crows and pray for their brothers' happiness and that they always remember them. The fourth day is known as Kaanum Pongal. On this day, people travel to see their family members and relatives. On this day, the younger members of the family pay homage to the elders, and the elders thank them by giving token money.

Pongal in India : India is a land of festivals. It is so rich in culture and traditions that each and every festival has a traditions attached to it. It is regarded as one of the monst important festival of South India. A majority of Indian population depends on agriculture. As a result, most of the festivals are also related to the agricultural activities of the people. Pongal is one such festival. It is also known as harvest festival. These festivals are celebrated with different names and rituals in almost all the states of India. Pongal is one of such highly revered festivals celebrated in Tamil Nadu to mark the harvesting of crops by farmers. Held in the middle of the month January, it is the time when the people get ready to thank God, earth and their cattle for the wonderful harvest and celebrate the occasion with joyous festivities and rituals.

Pongal continues through the first four days of Thai month that starts in the mid-January and spreads to mid-February. The farmers celebrate this festival with lots of enthusiasm and joy. The houses are cleaned, painted and decorated. Kolams (ground patterns made out of rice flour) are made in the front yards of the houses and new clothes for the whole family are bought to mark the festivities. Even the cattle are gaily caparisoned with beads, bells and flowers-their horns painted and capped with gleaming metals. Pongal has been designated the "State Festival" for its unique celebration that is typical of Tamil Nadu. It is a festival that encompasses all of Tamil Nadu in its joyous embrace. It is a time when the poor, the rich, the villager all celebrate the harvest festival together. It is the celebration time for all irrespective of the caste, religion, poor and rich. The four day celebration of Pongal marks a period of plenty, peace and happiness. The festival of Pongal brings lots of happiness and joy to families.

Pongal Recipes : 

Pongal is the time to enjoy and have fun. It is the festival of feasting and enjoyment. 'Pongal' means boiling water and symbolizes the excess and plentiful of harvest and prosperity. The harvest festival of Tamil Nadu has two main dishes on its course as 'Sweet Pongal' and 'Salt Pongal' along with other side dishes of rice and 'Avial', a concoction of vegetables. Pongal is all about spreading of love and joy in the neighboring homes and enjoy the festival with family and friends. Families exchange 'pongal' as good wishes of prosperity to each other and visit each other on this day. However, some of the South Indian families exchange only the first fruits and flowers of the harvest as gifts to their near and dear ones.

• Aval Payasam
• Bisi Bele Bhath
• Boonda
• Brinjal Kotsu
• Chakara Pongal
• Chana Dal Payasam
• Chow Chow Koottu
• Coconut Laddoo
• Curd Rice
• Keerai Masiyal
• Lemon Rice
• Milk Rice
• Muttai Kulambu
• Parangikkai Pulikulambu
• Puliyogare Rice
• Rava Kesari
• Sakkarai Pongal
• Seeyam
• Summa Kulambu
• Upma
• Vegetable Perattal
• Ven Pongal
• Vendakkai More kulambu
• Karunai Kilangu Masiyal
• Khara Pongal
• Medu Vada
• Milk Vada
• Muttaikos Kola
• Pesarattu
• Rava Dosa
• Rava Payasam
• Sweet Pongal
• Vazhakkai Podimas
• Vella Mangai Pachadi
• Vendakkai Mandi

When is Pongal : 

Pongal Date is the winter solstice in the Hindu solar calendar. The passing of the sun into the sign Capricorn marks it. Pongal is celebrated on this date itself and also to celebrate the coming of spring. There are several ways of calculating the Hindu solar calendar, so Pongal date may vary by up to one day in various parts of India depending whether local custom dictates the use of the old or new Hindu calendar or astronomical tables. Pongal or Thai Pongal is also called Makara Sankaranthi, since it is celebrated on the first day of Thai when the Sun enters the Makara Rasi (Capricornus). This signals the end of winter and the onset of spring throughout the northern hemisphere. For the next six months, the days are longer and warmer.

As the day of Pongal celebration is decided according to the solar calendar, the Pongal date remains the same every year. Following are the date on which the four days of Pongal are celebrated:

• Bhogi Festival : 13th January. (Every Year)
• Pongal : 14th January. (Every Year)
• Maattu Pongal : 15th January. (Every Year)
• Kaanum Pongal : 16th January. (Every Year)

Dussehra

Whenever we think of India we think as a land of festivals. Every festival in India epitomizes the social, cultural and religious aspirations of the people. Every festival brings with it few days of happiness and joy in the life of the people. Navratri, or 'The Festival of Nine Nights', is celebrated during the first nine days of the Hindu month of Ashvin (September-October). The festival is dedicated to the worship of Mother Goddess or Shakti and her nine forms. This season is considered to be an auspicious one as it is generally associated with the sowing of seeds. People sow seeds on the first day, consecrate the planets, watch the sprouting and worship Goddess Durga during this festival. The last three days are especially considered most important. The nine-day is equally divided in worshiping three goddesses. The first three days are dedicated to Goddess Durga. The next three days are spent in worshipping goddess Lakshmi and the last three days are dedicated to Goddess Saraswati. The day after Navratri the festival of Dussehra is celebrated.

The festival of Navratri acquires quite a fascinating and colorful dimension in the region of Gujarat, and in some parts of Rajasthan and Maharashtra. The highlights of the festival are the extremely colorful dances of Garbha and Dandiya-Rasa where men and women of all sects perform. The Rasa has its origin in the life scenes of Lord Krishna and is associated with the agricultural rites while Garba is performed only by men and is related with the fertility cult or the mother aspect of Navratri. In the south, Dusshera is very popular while in the east, the seventh to the tenth days of Durga Puja are celebrated with much vigor and enthusiasm. Besides the Garba Dance of Gujarat, the most popular events on the auspicious occasions of Navratri are Ramlila of Varanasi, Dussehra of Mysore and Durga Puja of Bengal. All these celebrations have a special significance according to their region. The rituals are based according to the culture and traditions of that particular region.

Holi

Holi - the festival of colors is one of the most popular festivals of the country. It is celebrated during the Spring season and embodies all the festivity, liveliness and exuberance of the season. Holi is the festival of young hearts. Spraying colors, dancing on traditional Holi songs, rhythmic drum beats and wild processions are the common scenes that one comes across during this festival. The festival is associated with various legends but the most popular among them is the tale of Hollika. According to legends there was a demon-king named Hiranyakashipu who was very cruel and ordered everybody to worship him and not God. He was against Lord Vishnu. However, his little son Prahlad refused to do so and continued to worship the almighty Lord Vishnu, the Hindu God. He tried hard to kill him but every time Lord Vishnu saved him. One of the sisters of the king named Holika had a boon to remain unscathed by fire, so she followed her brother's wishes. However, with this sinful act against Lord Narayana's devotee, Holika's boon ended and she was burnt to ashes, while Prahlad came out safe. From that day onwards Holi is celebrated as the festival of the victory of good over evil. Even today, bonfires are lit on the night before Holi in memory of the event and burning of the evil Holika. It symbolizes the victory of Good over evil.

It is actually the great festival of Hindus, where farmers and rural people can celebrate the prosperity and abundance in life that comes with the harvest season. The festival of colors, Holi is celebrated on the day after the full moon in early March or April every year. People smear each other's faces with colored powder known as 'Gulal' and 'Abeer' and throw colored water or 'Rang' on each other. Most of the people now-a-days prefer the traditionally prepared natural herbal colors that are not only fragrant but also good for skin. People take out processions on streets that feature folk songs and dances. The 'Bhaang' (opium) drinks are very popular among people as it the favorite festival drink. The festival of Holi has no religion as all celebrates it. The festival has a secular flavor. The main significance behind the celebration is fun and enjoyment.

When is Holi : 

The festival of Holi is celebrated on the day after the full moon in early March every year. In India the Spring Festival is called Holi the festival of colors. Celebrated in March or April according to the Hindu calendar. The festival mainly started to welcome the Spring season and win the blessings of Gods for good harvests and fertility of the land. As with all the Hindu festivals, there are many interesting legends attached to Holi, the most popular being the story of Prince Prahlad who was a devout follower of Lord Vishnu and Holika. It is the second most important festival of India after Diwali. Holi in India is a festival of fun and frolic and has been associated with the immortal love of Lord Krishna and Radha. The exuberance and the festivity of the season is remarkable. Holi is one of the major festivals of India and is celebrated in most of the states of India. However, each region celebrates it according to their culture and traditions. Different states celebrate it according to their own customs.

• Holi 2008 - 22nd March (Saturday)
• Holi 2009 - 11th March (Wednesday)
• Holi 2010 - 1st March (Monday)
• Holi 2011 - 20th March (Sunday)
• Holi 2012 - 8th March (Thursday)

Onam

The festival of Onam portrays the rich cultural heritage of Kerala, its golden past, rich traditions and prosperous present. It is the spirit of Onam that attracts tourist not only across India but also from other parts of the world. High-spirited people of Kerala celebrate Onam with gaiety and fervor. The festival is celebrated for a period of ten days, starting from the first day Atham and continuing till tenth and the biggest day called Thiru Onam. It is the most famous festival of South India. All in Kerala celebrates Onam irrespective of their social status, religion, caste and age. According to legends it celebrates the return of King Mahabali, the kind demon king who once ruled the land. Intricate floral carpets called Pookalam mark the first day of the festival. The biggest and the most happening day in the carnival of Onam is Thiruvonam. There are lots of activities like sports and cultural events that take place all over the state on Onam. Number of sports and games events are also organized on the day. These are collectively called Onakalikal. Some of them are rigorous sports like Talappanthukali, Kutukutu and combats like Kayyankali and Attakalam.

The festival is ten-day long and falls in the month of Chingam (according to the Malayalam calendar) and is celebrated with much pomp and gaiety. Onam is also a harvest festival. It is celebrated at a time when everything appears so nice and good. The best part of the festival is it's secular flavor as people from all religious background takes part in it. It is more like a community festival. Onam reflects the faith of the people of Kerala; their belief in the legendary past, religion and power of worship. It shows the high spirit of the people who go out of the way to celebrate the festival in the prescribed manner and a grand fashion.

People decorate their homes with fresh flower mats known as 'Pookalam' to welcome the King Mahabali. They wear new dresses; visit the temples to offer their prayers to the Gods and performing traditional dances such as Thiruvathirakali and Thumbi Tullal. One of the most exciting facets of Onam is the unfolding of its rich and well-established culture and tradition. We see not just glimpses but a whole gamut of it in the ten-day-long carnival. The rich cultural heritage is portrayed beautifully in these ten days. Onam is the true picture of the passion of the people of Kerala.

Onam Celebrations in Kerala : Onam is regardedas the most important the biggest festival of Kerala. But, there is a lot more to Onam than being just a festival. Onam reflects the faith of the people of Kerala; A belief in their legendary past, religion and power of worship. It shows the high spirit of the people who go out of the way to celebrate the festival in the prescribed manner and a grand fashion. It portrays the true cultural heritage and past of Kerala. All the rituals and traditions associated with the festival shows how rich is the heritage of India. Onam is celebrated as a harvest festival. It is celebrated at a time when everything appears so wonderful. The beautiful landscape of Kerala can be seen in its full radiance at this time of the Malayalam New Year. Weather, it seems, also seeks to be a part of the festival. It contributes by becoming pleasantly warm and sunny. Fields look brilliant with a bountiful harvest. Farmers feel on top of the world as they watch the result of their hard labor with pride. The festival showcases the unity among people.

The beauty of the festival lies in it's secular fabric. People of all religions, castes and communities celebrate the festival with equal joy and verve. Onam also helps to create an atmosphere of peace and brotherhood by way of various team sports organized on the day. One of the most marvelous facets of Onam is the unfolding of its rich and well-established culture. It portrays the culture through various activities. We see not just glimpses but a whole gamut of it in the ten-day-long carnival. Pulikali, Kaikottikali, Kummattikalli, Kathakali, Thumbi Thullal besides several other folk arts and traditions can be seen on one platform called Onam. Women take special interests in making special arrangements to welcome Onathappan. Flower carpets are laid in the front courtyards with dedication and full sincerity. A grand meal is prepared on the day of Thiru Onam. It is on this day that Maveli's spirit visits Kerala. Delicious meal consists of best of Kerala cuisine including avial, sambhar, rasam, parippu and the payasam adds more color to the festival. Onam is the passion of the people of Kerala. And, pride of India!

When is Onam : 

The vibrant and colorful harvest festival of Onam is celebrated in the beginning of the first month of Malayalam Calendar (Kolla Varsham) called Chingam. Onam falls, on the 12th day of the waxing moon in the six month of Hindu calendar called Bhadon or Bhadrapada which is usually around August or September according to Gregorian calendar once the golden yellow rice fields have been harvested at that time of the year. There is no specific god associated with Onam. Neither is any special puja or ritualistic prayer ceremony which is performed. In 2008, Onam will be celebrated on the 12th of September. The celebrations of Onam start ten days before the big day. As it is celebrated during the harvest season, the beautiful state of Kerala can be seen in its magnificent best. Weather is pleasantly sunny and warm calling for mirth and celebrations. Fields look brilliant as they glow with golden paddy grains. It is also the boom time of fruits and flowers. After the month of deprivation, Karkidakam (last month of Malayalam Calendar), farmers are happy with a bountiful harvest and celebrate the festival to the hilt.

The Onam festival continues for ten days. The starting day is called the Thiru Onam. The festival commences from lunar asterism (a cluster of stars smaller than a constellation) Atham (Hastha) that appears ten days before asterism Onam or Thiru Onam. Atham is regarded as auspicious and holy day by people of Kerala. Onam corresponds to Shravan day in the month of August or September, hence it is also called Sravanotsavam. The first day of the festival is called Atham and culminating on Thiru Onam. These are considered to be the most important days. The day of Atham is celebrated on the basis of the position of the stars. The day is decided in accordance with the legend of King Mahabali in whose honor Onam is celebrated. People believe that it was this particular day in the month of Chingam when Lord Vishnu took his fifth avatar as Vaamana, appeared in the kingdom of King Mahabali and send him to nether world. It is believed that Onam celebrations started during the Sangam Period. Record of celebrations can be found from the time of Kulasekhara Perumals (800 AD). At that time Onam celebrations continued for a month.

• Onam 2008 - 12th September (Friday)
• Onam 2009 - 2nd September (Wednesday)

Rakhi

The Rakhi festival or Raksha Bandhan has a special significance in hearts of brothers and sisters. The silken thread of Rakhi symbolizes the love between siblings. The Rakhi Festival symbolizes all aspects of protection of the good from evil forces. Rakhi is meant to sweeten the ties of brother and sister. Rakhi is celebrated with great joy and excitement all around India. Known as Raksha Bandhan in other parts of the country, Rakhi festival showcases the love, affection and feeling of brotherhood. Raksha Bandhan usually falls in late August. The main ritual consists of tying the 'Rakhi' knot on to a brother's wrist. 'Raksha Bandhan' literally means 'Bond of protection' and implies that while the sister prays to God for the well-being and prosperity of her brother, the brother vows to protect her against all the evils of the world and help her in all the problems. The day is all about Raksha or protection. The values, emotions and the sentiments attached to the customs of Rakhi festival are worth inculcating by the whole human race, the sentiments of harmony and peaceful coexistence.

Rakhi is celebrated with great excitement and joy across India and other parts of the worlds where Indians reside. From early morning everybody starts getting ready for the occasion. On the day of Rakshabandhan, people generally prefer to wear traditional attires. Men mostly wear kurta pyjama on this occasion whereas women prefer to wear sari or salwar suits, which are mainly Indian traditional clothes. People generally prefer to wear cotton material cloths, as this is comfortable during this season. But with the changing fashion trends every year, people generally tend to follow the fashion of that season during the festival time. But for Indians, the traditional and cultural chord is so strong that no matter where the siblings are, they will try to wear traditional Indian clothes that reflect our values, tradition and culture. On the occasion of Rakhi, special dishes are prepared, which includes sweets and namkeens. The day has a deeper perspective in today's scenario. The rakhi tying ritual has become so much a part of the families that come what may brothers and sisters try to reach out to each other on this particular day bringing back the oneness of the family, binding the family together in an emotional bond.

When is Raksha Bandhan :

When we talk of the festival Raksha Bandhan we usually think of the date on which it is celebrated. Every year normally in the month of August, the auspicious day of Shravan Purnima, or full moon day in the month of Shravan according to the Hindu calendar, the festival of Raksha Bandhan is celebrated. Rakhi is celebrated in various ways in different parts of the country. Different regions have different cultural significance. Rakhi Purnima is known by different names in different parts of the country. Here are list of Raksha Bandhan date.

Rakhi Calendar For The Coming Five Years

• In 2008, Rakhi will be celebrated on 16th August 2008.
• In 2009, Rakhi will be celebrated on 5th August 2009.
• In 2010, Rakhi will be celebrated on 24th August 2010

Sikh Festivals

Guru Nanak Jayanti
Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of the Sikh faith, was born in the month of Kartik (October/November), and his birthday is known as Guru Nanak Jayanti. He was born in 1469 A.D. at Tolevandi some 30 miles from Lahore. The anniversaries of Sikh Guru's are known as Gurpurabs (festivals) and are celebrated with devotion and dedication.

Holla Mohalla
Holla Mohalla is an annual Sikh martial festival and is celebrated in the month of Phalguna (March), a day after Holi. Mock martial are organized on this day. Holla Mohalla serves as an occassion to reaffirm their commitment to the Khalsa Panth.

Lohri
Lohri is a bonfire festival and is celebrated on the auspicious day of January 13 every year. The Lohri festival is celebrated to mark the beginning of sun's journey towards Uttarayan (north). Lohri is celebrated with lot of zeal and fervor especially in the states of Punjab, Haryana and Delhi. Lohri jubilates fertility and is celebrated with much more enthusiasm in families where a child has been born.

Buddha Jayanti

It is said that one of the greatest spiritual teachers of mankind the world has ever seen is Gautam Buddha. It is his teachings and message that has traveled far and wide. It is believed that the origin and practice of Buddhist religion dates back to the time when Lord Buddha was born around 543 BC. Siddhartha, the only son of Shuddhodana, the King of Kapilavastu is believed to have lived a very sheltered and protected life till the age of 29. He was completely ignorant of what miseries and sorrows were all about. He did not know the tragedies of everyday life. One day the prince desired to see the city. The King ordered that the city should be all gay and grand, so that everywhere his son would meet with only pleasing sights. He was shocked to see the harsh realities of life when he viewed an old man, a sick and disabled person and a dead body for the first time in his life. The fourth vision was of an ascetic who looked at peace with himself, which led Siddharth to search for the true meaning of life, renounce the luxury and worldly pleasures and look for enlightenment. He wandered to many places and ultimately attained enlightenment in Bodhgaya under a 'pipal' tree. Since then he was known as Gautam Buddha or the 'Enlightened One'.

Buddha Purnima or Buddha Jayanti is the birth anniversary of the Lord Buddha. It is widely celebrated on a full moon night in Vaisakha (according to the Hindu calendar that usually falls in April or May). Buddha Purinma is important festival to Buddhists. Buddha was born in B.C. 560 and died at the age of eighty in B.C. 480. Buddhism went on to become a very popular religion in the subsequent centuries and even went abroad. It was on Buddha Poornima that he attained enlightenment and ultimately after preaching the five principles of life and the path of eight-fold truth for long, he attained 'Nirvana' or left the mortal world on this day itself. Thus, Buddha Jayanti celebrates the three most important events in Gautam Buddha's life. Pilgrims from all over the world come to Bodh Gaya in India to participate in the Buddha Poornima celebrations that highlight prayer meets, sermons and religious discourses, recitation of Buddhist scriptures, group meditation, processions and worship of the statue of Buddha.