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India Travel Guidelines

webmaster@t2india.com — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 13:06:00 +0000

India Travel Guidelines

A general guide to ensure you has a pleasant time in India.

Carry your passport, other travel documents and your money separately. You don't want to lose them all together.
Keep extra photocopies of the relevant pages of your passport. This is needed for various reasons in India, at the hotel, to buy a SIM card etc.
Never travel without mosquito repellents and other essential medicines. Carry a doctor’s prescription all the time if you are on specific medication.
Inform your tour operator beforehand if you are allergic to a particular substance or a drug.
Ensure that your luggage is waterproof.
Many women travellers prefer to carry a high pitched whistle that would scare away stalkers.

Clothes:

· Travel as light as possible. Clothing and laundry are both affordable in India.

· It’s better for women to avoid tank tops or short skirts / shorts.

· Winters are pleasant in southern India while you will need heavy woollens as you progress in the Northern region.

· Summers are harsh throughout, so light cotton clothes are most comfortable.

· Best to avoid miniskirts / shorts both for men and women while visiting temples. Some temples may insist to cover your head as well. A small handkerchief or a scarf can suffice.

Social Interaction:

· If you give the impression of being from a different country, chances are that you might be stared at, especially in the smaller towns. Don’t be offended-they mean no harm, it is just curiosity.

Toilets:

· In India, public toilets facilities are few and far between. Take every opportunity you can to use a clean toilet in places such as hotels and restaurants. Make this a habit wherever you go.

Beggars:

· Do not let them hassle you, and do not encourage them by giving them money.

Food and Drinks:

Drink only bottled water. Many popular brands are available. In restaurants insist that they bring a sealed bottle to your table.
Beef is not served in many parts of India. Pork is also not easily available.
Eat non-vegetarian food only in good restaurants.
Good quality vegetarian food is easily available.
Curd or yoghurt is served with most meals. It is a natural aid to digestion and helps temper the spicy food.

Shopping:

· India is shoppers’ paradise. From decorative items like pottery, masks, bronze items to jewellery can be purchased at reasonable rates in India. India is the largest producer of branded jewels which are exported and can be bought here at affordable rates.

· Various types of silk is manufactured in India and is easily available at good shops. Embroidered cloth, leather items, various spices like pepper, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon and saffron, miniature paintings, wooden and marble objects, cotton clothes and much more. If you have got the taste of Indian food, ready to eat packets of various dishes are also easily available. Various pickles and snacks can be bought.

· India also produces a huge variety of tea and you can get a good choice. Along with that you may also go for some herbal beauty products and last but not the least various music and cinema CDs to keep your Indian sojourn going can be bought!

Tipping:

In hotels and restaurants, tips are not normally included in the bill
Some hotels include service charge on their bills. In such cases tipping is not necessary.
The standard tip is 10%.
In hotels, porters and room service attendants are normally tipped at the end of the stay,
Tipping of taxi drivers is not customary.

Weather in India:

· Temperature in India can vary from North to south and east to west.

· There is snow in the northernmost part of the country while you sweat in the southernmost part of the country.

· The climate is extreme in the north while it is constant in the south. The east and the west do differ but not much.

· The sun is strong. Remember to use sunscreen of exposed parts of the body. Wear Sunglasses to screen out harmful rays.

· The dry summer heat can drain you completely. Drink lots of water and fluids.

Sightseeing:

Dress codes for religious places can include covering your head, being barefoot etc. Ask, So that you don’t unwittingly give offence.
Some temples do not permit any leather articles at all on their premises.
Certain temples are not open to Non-Hindus. Please check with the local tourist Information office.
Most museums in India are closed on Monday and Site Museums, those near Archaeological monuments, on Fridays.
Photography is not always permissible, and at many places it is permitted only at a fee.
There is usually a higher fee for using a video camera.
Smoking is not allowed at public places. All properties of the Indian Railways including Trains and railway stations are strictly non - smoking zones with stiff penalties for Violations.
English is spoken at almost all tourist centres, but you can also request Government-Trained and approved guides who also speak Chinese, German, French, Spanish, Japanese, Italian or Russian.

Health Precautions:

Always drink bottled water.
For the first few days it might be advisable to clean your teeth and bottled water.
Eat fruit you can peel.
Always wash fruit well before eating it.
Wash your hands before and after eating.
Always keep a tube of mosquitoes repellent with you.
Always carry a kit of the basic emergency medicines you might need for diarrhoea, fever Etc. Also, band aids and an antiseptic ointment.
If you do catch a bug, do not panic. It will go away in a few days-but try to following Tips to keep it down:

Drink lassi - a yoghurt drink. It will help tone down the bacteria.
Eat plain rice, or try to simple khichdi – an easily digestible mixture of rice and lentils.
Drink plenty of coconut water. It’s cooling, and naturally sterilized!
Drink plenty of fluids and take some electrolyte salts if the bug persists.

Time:

Everything in India takes time- longer than in most places. So always give yourself extra Time for whatever you may have to do- even it is just a visit to the Post Office or Changing money.

Others:

Keep extra photocopies of the relevant pages of your passport. This will be request for Indian permits. Also, keep extra photographs of yourselves. These will be request for Permits, filling out forms, etc.
Voltage in India is 220 V for Plugs C & D. If you have a different plug you will need a voltage converter, and plug adapter in order to use your appliances. We recommend getting a universal adapter and converter kit.
In cities you can change most major foreign currencies and brands of travellers’ cheques- but you’ll widen your options and save yourself hassles if you stick to US dollars or pound sterling, and either Thomas Cook or American Express travellers cheques.
Most big cities have ATMs which accept Visa and MasterCard as well as American Express. The ATM network is ever expending and in some states, you can find them even in some smaller towns.

www.t2india.com wishes you a safe and wonderful stay in India.

Pushkar Fair, 2011

webmaster@t2india.com — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 12:23:00 +0000

Pushkar Fair with Golden Triangle

Every November, the sleepy little township of Pushkar in Rajasthan, India comes alive with a riot of colours and a frenzied burst of activity. The occasion: PUSHKAR FAIR. Very few, if at all any, fairs in the world can match the liveliness of Pushkar. Most people associate the Pushkar Fair with the world's largest camel fair. But it is much more than that.

It portrays vivid images of the rich culture and the benevolent face of this mesmerizing state. This popular tourist destination is also known as the land of Lord Brahma. It has the only temple dedicated to the creator of the universe Lord Brahma in the entire country.Over 50,000 camels find their way to the Pushkar Fair to be traded off or display their best features, beauty and tricks - yes, that's true. Pushkar Fair brings you unique competitions that are as funny as they are entertaining. These include Camel Beauty Contest, where camels vie with each other adorned with painted motifs and wearing beautifully embroidered and mirror-worked saddlecloth. Camel Race and Camel Dance are other highlights of the fair.

The Route: Delhi-Agra-Jaipur-Pushkar-Delhi

Highlights: Rajasthan’s most famous fair, Pushkar brings together camel traders, pilgrims, visitors and those who are here simply to participate in one of the season's most colorful social events. It is one of the largest and most colorful animal fairs in the world. Besides tented camps, there are hundreds of shops selling everything from handicrafts to spices, foodstuff and jewelery. For visitors, a number of activities are also arranged, but the best is to simply stay within the fair grounds to watch the fascinating Rajasthani village metamorphose before your eyes. Pushkar Fair is from 2nd till 10th November'11.

The Best of India (30 Days / 29 Nights)

webmaster@t2india.com — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 14:41:00 +0000

The Best of India (30 Days / 29 Nights)
The tour that shows you India at its best! From beautiful palaces and huge forts to the vast deserts and deep seas, this tour takes you to the most beautiful locations in India. A monument dedicated to Love, The Taj; a divine feeling at the Ghats of the Ganges in Varanasi; the eroticism sculpted on the Khajuraho temples and the life of Buddha depicted in pictures in Ajanta; this tour shows you the best of India. To top it all take a short trip to Goa, a place always on a vaccation... come and enjoy India to the fullest.

Signature Travel, India

webmaster@t2india.com — Sat, 20 Aug 2011 10:21:00 +0000

Signature Travel

There is Travel for All,

And then there is travel for You!

Prakriti Inbound welcomes you to the best of India Travel. Our selection of travel plan and services are handpicked. Great experience of Indian Hospitality is a hall mark of this specially made line of services.

Signature travel is for you, for your standard of life and expectation from life. Only the very best of hotels, vehicles and servicing personnel are handpicked. In signature travel it takes a great care to make every journey worth remembering, every journey should be worth your imagination and your expectations.

We have tried to offer everything that is best. But when it is you, we shall not take any chance in presuming. That is one reason why we would always love to hear more from you and your expectations on your signature style of travel.

We sincerely hope our travel planners and travel executives shall be there all the time to look after your signature, whenever you wish to call on them for a travel to India.

Day 1: Delhi
Day 2: Delhi
Day 3: Delhi-Agra
Day 4: Agra-Jaipur
Day 5: Jaipur
Day 6: Jaipur-Udaipur
Day 7: Udaipur
Day 8: Udaipur-Delhi

Here is you Signature Travel :http://signature.t2india.com/signature/

Festivals of India

webmaster@t2india.com — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 07:02:00 +0000

RAKSHA BANDHAN:

The first full moon falling in August celebrates the relations between a brother and a sister. On this day sisters tie a sacred thread called Rakhi on their brothers' wrists and pray for their well being while the brothers return the love by gifting them and promising to take care of the sisters for the rest of their lives.

In India, festivals are the celebration of togetherness, of being one of the families. Raksha Bandhan is one such festival that is all about affection, fraternity and sublime sentiments. It is also known as Raksha Bandhan which means a 'bond of protection'. This is an occasion to flourish love, care, affection and sacred feeling of brotherhood.

Owing to the regional influence of the local legends and their relevance in different parts of the country, the celebrations of Rakhi vary throughout India. This festival is primarily known as being associated with the north and north western part of the country. But, it can be safely said that with changing times and the world having become a smaller place, this occasion has gained popularity in many parts of this country and even so the world.

According to one mythological allusion, Rakhi was intended to be the worship of the sea-god Varuna. Hence, offerings of coconut to Varuna, ceremonial bathing and fairs at waterfronts accompany this festival.There are also myths that describe the ritual as observed by Indrani and Yamuna for their respective brothers Indra and Yama.

Once, Lord Indra stood almost vanquished in a long-drawn battle against the demons. Full of remorse, he sought the advice of Guru Brihaspati, who suggested for his sortie the auspicious day of Shravan Purnima (fullmoon day of the month of Shravan). On that day, Indra's wife and Brihaspati tied a sacred thread on the wrist of Indra, who then attacked the demon with renewed force and routed him.

الهند لا تصدق

webmaster@t2india.com — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 16:43:00 +0000

ما أكثر الهند تجذب زائرا إليها هي تعددية فريدة و تنوع مذهل . مما لا شك فيه، أن التجار القدامى و الغزاة التاريخيين الذين قدموا الى الهند من مناطق بعيدة باحثين عن الثروات، وقعوا في الحب مع تربة الهند و وجدوا وجهة ومكانا للتسوية لهم في شبه القارة بدلا من أن تكون نقطة انطلاق. و ارتبط هذا التنوع بطبيعتها الجغرافية التي تتميز بتباينها الكبير من مكان لمكان و من بقعة إلى أخرى، فهناك الجبال ذات القمم الجليدية و السهول المنخفضة، الصحارى الشاسعة و الوديان الخصبة و المروج الخضراء. و كان من الطبيعي أن تنشأ في كنف هذه التضاريس المتباينة أنماط مختلفة من الحياة و ثقافات تعكس هذه الاختلافات الجغرافية. و إلى جانب هذا التنوع الأصيل جاءت ثقافات وافدة و موجات متعاقبة من الغزوات من شمال البلاد و جنوبها ساهمت في إدخال سلالات عرقية جديدة و لغات و ديانات مختلفة مما أدى إلى ظهور هائل من العادات المختلفة في الملبس و الماكل و الطقوس و الاحتفالات. بالتالي وصف جواهر لال نهرو، رئيس وزراء الهند الأول، بالظاهرة المذهلة كوحدة في التنوع ، مزيج من الثقافات والشعوب، والذي يعطي الهند هوية متميزة لا مثيل لها في العالم، ولا يفوت الهنود أبدا فرصة لتأكيد افتخارهم بتنوع أراضيهم.

الهند بلد واسعة و رابع أكبر الحجم على مستوى العالم ، والهنود سادس البشرية على الارض ، و يبلغ عدد السكان أكثر من 1 مليار نسمة ، بحيث أنها تقف في المرتبة الثانية بعد الصين المجاورة. واستغرب دائما الوافدون الجدد بالتعددية المتواجدة في الحضارات و اللغات و الديانات و الألوان، والتكوين البدني، و كذلك خصائص الأنثروبولوجية، وميزات الاجتماعية بين الناس في شبه القارة. و يوجد تقريبا جميع الأشكال من الجنس البشري و العديد من المجموعات العرقية المختلفة من الآريين و الهنود والأوروبيين إلى السلالة الدرفيدية من البحر الأبيض المتوسط و كذلك المغول و Negrito و Proto- Australoids على هذه كرة الأرض. مما لا شك فيه، أن الهند ثرية بمتعدد المجتمعات و اللغات و الأعراق و هي أيضا موطن التنوعات في الحياة البرية بأنواع من المحميات. لو أنت ذهبت من الشمال إلى الجنوب، فتجد أن شحوب لون الناس يبدو أن يعود تدريجيا إلى لون داكن بشكل عام. و في عائلة واحدة، سواء في الجنوب أو الغرب، يمكن لأحد أن يشاهد أعضاء الأسرة بألوان مختلفة من الشعر والجلد والعين. وإضافة إلى مجموعة متنوعة من العظمة، ربما تمتلك الهند أكبر عدد من الماشية في العالم ، يبلغ عددهاحوالي 200 مليون نسمة. و رغم ذلك، تتسم الهند بدرجة عالية بالتوفيق بين الأديان و تعددية الثقافات و الألوان.

ارون سادهو ( الصحفي الشهير ومؤلف هذا المقال)

محمد راشد كمال (خبير اللغة العربية و مترجم هذا المقال)

Temple Tour of Tamil Nadu

webmaster@t2india.com — Tue, 14 Jun 2011 12:37:00 +0000

Temple Tour of Tamil Nadu (7 Days / 6 Nights)
Route: Chennai - Mahabalipuram - Mahabalipuram - Kanchipuram - Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry -Thanjavur - Tiruchirappalli - Madurai - Chennai

Once ruled by the Dravdian kings like the Cholas and the Pandyas, the state of Tamil Nadu can be called as state of temples. In numerous beautifully carved temples, dedicated to various Hindu deities dot the state. Most of the temples are nearly 2000 years old with an architecture of Dravidian influence and many mythological stories attached to it. Be it the Meenakshi temple, the largest temple in India with musical pillars or the shore temple of Mahabalipuram, each has its own story giving these small towns a mystic touch!

The tour takes you to Pondicherry which showcases a drastic difference from the rest with the heavy influence French culture.

Come and enjoy this 7 day sojourn with mystifying stories, beautiful temples, great cuisine and the calmness of the Ashram in Pondicherry.

Day 1: Chennai
Day 2: Chennai-Mahabalipuram
Day 3: Mahabalipuram - Kanchipuram - Mahabalipuram
Day 4: Mahabalipuram-Pondicherry-Thanjavur
Day 5: Thanjavur-Tiruchirappalli-Madurai
Day 6: Madurai
Day 7: Madurai-Chennai

Click here for a detailed itinerary...

Travel Map

Ladakh Himachal Tour, India

webmaster@t2india.com — Mon, 25 Apr 2011 12:38:00 +0000

Ladakh Himachal Tour (11 Days/10 Nights)
Route: Kolkata - Leh-Alchi-Sarchu-Jispa-Manali–Dharamshala-Amritsar–Delhi

During the tour you will visit the most popular and famous monasteries of the Ladakh region built by different rulers. In this tour you are reaching the highest motor able road in the world. Here the landscape assumes fantastic view of the mountains. Visiting the most charming and beautiful Kulu valley spread out its charm on either side of the river Beas. The valley is also famous for its exquisitely woven colorful handmade shawls. We take you to Dharamshala known as Little Lhasa in the gorgeous Kangra District of Himachal Pradesh in North India.

Day 1: Leh
Day 2: Leh
Day 3: Leh
Day 4: Leh - Alchi - Leh
Day 5: Leh - Sarchu
Day 6: Sarchu - Jispa
Day 7: Jispa - Manali
Day 8: Manali
Day 9: Manali - Dharamshala
Day 10: Dharamshala - Amritsar
Day 11: Amritsar - Delhi

Click here for more details…

Travel Map

Leh

Alchi

Sarchu

Jispa

Manali

Dharamshala

Amritsar

Delhi

Sikkim and Darjeeling Tours, India

webmaster@t2india.com — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 11:48:00 +0000

Eastern Golden Triangle with Sikkim and Darjeeling (16 Days / 15 Nights)
Route: Kolkata - Bhubaneshwar- Konark - Puri - Gopalpur-Kolkata -Darjeeling – Gangtok- Kalimpong - Kolkata

This itinerary will take you to the journey of eastern India. Starting from the largest city of India, Kolkata, which has a wonderful fusion of modern and ancient with rich and poor, to the religious and ancient towns of Konark and Puri. The world heritage temples will give you an insight of the East Indian architectural prowess of the ancient days. Experience the soothing sea at Gopalpur and the calmness of the Chilka Lake. Take an extension to the tiny state of Sikkim, nestled at the foothills of the Himalayas and shadowed by the majestic Kanchandzonga. With spectacular view of the Himalayas, Sikkim is one of the largest orchid producers in India which bloom at every nook and corner of the state.

Day 1: Kolkata
Day 2: Kolkata
Day 3: Kolkata - Bhubaneshwar
Day 4: Bhubaneshwar - Konark - Puri
Day 5: Puri
Day 6: Puri - Gopalpur
Day 7: Gopalpur
Day 8: Gopalpur
Day 9: Gopalpur-Kolkata
Day 10: Kolkata
Day 11: Kolkata - Darjeeling
Day 12: Darjeeling
Day 13: Darjeeling - Gangtok
Day 14: Gangtok
Day 15: Gangtok - Kalimpong
Day 16: Kalimpong - Kolkata

Click here for more details…

Travel Map

Kolkata

Bhubaneshwar

Konark

Puri

Gopalpur

Darjeeling

Gangtok

Kalimpong

Khajuraho Varanasi Tours

webmaster@t2india.com — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 10:33:00 +0000

Khajuraho Varanasi Golden Triangle Tour, India (11 Days/10 Nights)
Route: - Delhi - Jaipur- Agra - Jhansi – Khajuraho – Varanasi – Delhi

India is vast and has varied choice of destinations. To have a glimpse of India, visit to the famous Northern Golden Triangle, comprising Delhi, Agra and Jaipur.We have included some of the famous destinations for you to choose from. From the by lanes of Varanasi to the erotic temples of Khajuraho, this journey holds a beautiful surprise at every turn that leaves you enchanted.

Day 1: Delhi
Day 2: Delhi
Day 3: Delhi - Jaipur
Day 4: Jaipur
Day 5: Jaipur - Agra
Day 6: Agra
Day 7: Agra - Jhansi - Khajuraho
Day 8: Khajuraho - Varanasi
Day 9: Varanasi
Day 10: Varanasi - Delhi
Day 11: Delhi

Click here for more details…

Travel Map

Delhi

Jaipur

Agra

Jhansi

Varanasi

Khajuraho

Kashmir and Leh Valley Tours, India

webmaster@t2india.com — Sat, 16 Apr 2011 07:39:00 +0000

Discover Kashmir and Leh Valley (9 Days/8 Nights)
Route: - Delhi - Leh - Srinagar - Gulmarg – Srinagar- Delhi – Agra- Delhi
The Trans Himalayan region in the Northern part of India is one of the most spectacular destinations of India. The Kashmir valley, once the favorite summer halts of the Mughals, has been described as paradise on earth by various writers and poets through ages. Its bountiful natural beauty with sprawling greenery, verdant lakes and magnificent bloom of flowers in the shadow of the great Himalayan snow capped mountains, has allured many tourists over the years. The northern most inhabited place of India, bordering Tibet is Leh. The land where snow, sun and silence prevail and time seems to stand still. Lands abound with majestic mountains; land where human bows to the bounty of natural beauty and rigidity, land with vast mountain ranges, clear blue skies and the Indus River flowing by. A mixture of Buddhism and Islam, with monasteries and festivities, Leh is the place for exploration and adventure as well.  Day 1: Delhi
Day 2: Delhi - Leh
Day 3: Leh
Day 4: Leh
Day 5: Leh - Srinagar
Day 6: Srinagar-Gulmarg-Srinagar
Day 7: Srinagar - Delhi - Agra
Day 8: Agra
Day 9: Agra - Delhi  Click here for more details…
                                                                   Travel Map

Delhi

Leh

Srinagar

Gulmarg

Agra

Scenic Tours in India

webmaster@t2india.com — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 13:35:00 +0000

Essence of North East, India Tour (9 Days / 8 Nights)

Route: - Kolkata-Darjeeling-Gangtok-Kalimpong-Kolkata

Land in the Country’s largest city -Kolkata, one of the most populous in the World. Onto Darjeeling from where one can watch the sunrise over Mount Everest from tiger hill, the legendary Darjeeling teas are cultivated here and Toy train is a memorable experience. Sikkim is the paradise placed in the Himalayas. Cocooned for centuries by the great mountains, its forests have over 500 verities of orchids. Sitting pretty on the erstwhile trade route between India and Tibet, Kalimpong has a diverse and rich heritage coming from the various people that inhabited it. It offers the visitor a glimpse into the rich cultures of the Bhutanese, the Nepalese, the Tibetans and the Lepchas.

Day 1: Kolkata
Day 2: Kolkata - Bagdogra - Darjeeling
Day 3: Darjeeling
Day 4: Darjeeling - Gangtok
Day 5: Gangtok
Day 6: Gangtok - Kalimpong
Day 7: Kalimpong
Day 8: Kalimpong-Bagdogra-Kolkata
Day 9: Kolkata

Click here for more details…

Travel Map

Ellora Caves

webmaster@t2india.com — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 07:39:00 +0000

30 km away from Aurangabad in a small village of Verul, are the impressive Ellora caves. Intricately carved into the sides of a basaltic hill of the Sahyadri Mountain this world heritage site is one of the best examples of rock - cut caves in the whole world. It is the meeting point of three faiths, Buddhist, Jain and Hindu. There are 34 caves in all. 12 Buddhist (600 -800 A.D.), 17 Hindu (900A.D.) and 5 Jain caves (800 1000 A.D.).

The Buddhist caves from number 1 to 12, out of which ten belong to the Mahayana sect and two to the Hinayana sect of Buddhism. They all are viharas, Monasteries .Cave number 10 contains gigantic Buddha figure in meditation, seated on a lion throne, flanked by attendants and flying figures. Some caves have the story of the miracle of Sravasti when Buddha assumed thousand forms. The sculpture in the Buddhist caves accurately convey the nobility, grace and serenity inherent in the Buddha.

The Hindu caves starting from cave number 13 are mostly dedicated to Lord Shiva. These caves have intricate carvings with minute details of the ornaments and clothes on the idols. But cave number 16 takes the cake. The most famous of all the Ellora caves is the Kailash cave. It is dedicated to lord Shiva and has many stories depicting the life of Shiva and therefore it has assumed the name of Kailash, the abode of Shiva. A figure of goddess Lakshmi seated on a lotus flower in water is shown at the entrance. Before that figures of Ganesh and Durga can be seen. The cave has huge Shivalingam on the first floor.

This lavishly carved cave has been cut from one rock and is world's largest monolithic cave. Moreover this stupendous edifice, was begun from the top of the rock and worked slowly down to the floor, creating gateway, courtyard, pavilion vestibule and tower along the way with beautiful figures. There are figures of Dashavataras of Vishnu, and panels of stories from the great epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata. An important figure of Lanka King Ravana, trying to shake the Kailash, is seen along with various mythological stories related to the life of Shiva, including his wedding with Parvati and Ardha-nari-nateshwar, when Lord Shiva assumed the form of half man and half woman.

Ellora, chiefly patronized by the Chalukya - Rashtrakuta rulers (7th - 10th century AD) are the testimony to the skills and imagination who built them. It took nearly 150 years to complete the Kailash cave with nearly 7000 labourers working round the clock.

The Jain caves can be seen as the amalgamation of Buddhist and the Hindu caves. There are some intricate carvings and painted frescoes in these caves.

The famous magnificent Yakshi statue and ceiling paintings are in cave number 32.

Ghrishneshwar temple: Within five minutes driving distance from the Ellora caves is the ancient temple of Ghrishneshwar. A superb example of medieval temple architecture, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered to be one of the most important 12 Shivalingam temples, the Jyotirlingas, of India. It has intricate carvings on the exterior and was renovated by Rani Ahillyabai Holkar, of Indore in the 17th century.

Ajanta Caves

webmaster@t2india.com — Mon, 24 Jan 2011 10:19:00 +0000

A two and half hour drive from Aurangabad takes you to the world heritage site of Ajanta. Although it is nearer to the cities of Jalgaon and Buldhana, Ajanta caves are better approached from Aurangabad. The caves are built in a horseshoe shaped curve of the steep rocky gorge that rises above the river Waghore. These rock hew caves, still glowing in their own natural colors, are the finest achievements of the Buddhist monks who arrived here in 2nd century B.C. and reflect the zenith of ancient Indian art and architecture. Though most were carved in the first 400 years span, but the work continued till 7th century A.D. The caves were suddenly abandoned, most probably to the nearby Ellora caves. They remained unknown and forgotten for centuries, until, in 1819, soldiers from a British hunting party found them, accidentally.

The exquisite paintings on the walls of the caves and some sculptures depict the development in Buddhism, over the span of eight centuries. The central theme of the frescoes remain the life and times of Buddha. Then there are descriptive Jataka tales, when Buddha assumed forms of animals on the earth in his previous births. There are lions, elephants, monkeys, peacocks and geese with human forms of 'Yakshas', 'Kinneras' (half human and half bird) 'Gandharvas' (divine musicians), 'Apsaras' (heavenly dancers), which were of concern to the people of that time. All of them decorated with intricacy. Their half-closed eyes giving an air of meditation.

The most important and better preserved caves are cave numbers 1, 2, 16, 17 and 19.

Cave 1:

The doorway has the most seen Ajanta frescoes of Padmapani and Vajrapani; celestial figures holding Lotus and Thunder bolt respectively in their hands. A court scene, from the Mahajanaka Jataka is depicted here. The Ummaga Jataka and the Champeya Jataka are shown in this cave. Interesting in these frescoes is the head gear of Bodhisattva Avalokiteshwara and the ornaments, clothes hairstyles and the purses carried by the womenfolk. They are drawn and coloured with minute intricacy showing the caliber of the artisans.

Cave 2:

In cave number 2 Buddhist icons were sculpted according to a set of codified rules that used symbolic hand gestures and motifs such as the wheel, the deer, the throne and sacred Bodhi tree. Each represents a stage of Buddha's life. The ceiling and wall paintings illustrate events associated with Buddha's birth including Maya, Buddha's mother. There are many paintings in this cave where the human figures are dressed differently than those of the others. Others are the tales from the Vidhurpandita Jataka.

Cave 16:

In between cave number 2 and 16 are many caves depicting the miracle of Sravasti. A special painting known as the "dying princess" adorns one wall of the cave. This shows Sundari, the wife of Buddha's half-brother, dying when she is told that her husband was going to become a monk. There are many female attendants besides her, one being a nurse. Astonishingly enough, the nurse is shown wearing the same uniform as of today.

Cave 17:

Stories from the Vishvantara Jataka and the Hamsa Jataka can be found here. One fresco shows Buddha preaching, with his right hand raised and palm facing the viewer, in posture of blessing. Buddha is shown seated in Padmasana- the lotus pose of meditation and is often shown with his hair tied in a topknot surrounded by a halo of light, representing nirvana or enlightenment. Another touching fresco is depicted in this cave when Buddha came back to Kapilavastu after enlightenment. He is shown with his wife Yashodhara and son Rahul. Here the figure of Buddha is tall and his wife and son look like dwarfs in from him, depicting his knowledge and prominence.

Cave 19:

Just like the caves in Ellora, all the caves in Ajanta are Monolithic and carved from top to bottom. This cave carries huge Stupa structure with Buddha seated in it and celestial figures flying over it.

Cave 26:

Last of the caves which is intricately decorated and carved. The main sculpture here is that of the sleeping Buddha. It is the legend of his Mahanirvana; i.e. his death. While normal humans are seen mourning below, the celestial figures in the heaven are seen rejoicing.

Ajanta is being restored with the same natural colours that were used, where they have been faded.

Cultural Festivals of India

webmaster@t2india.com — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 11:31:00 +0000

India is a vast country with rich and varied cultural heritage. Folk dance and music is the core of the Indian tradition and culture. Some local festivities have today gained so much importance that people from all over the world flock to see them. The Indian government has enhanced the tradition by holding dance and music festivals in world heritage sites.

January is the coldest month in India with a pleasant climate in the southern parts of India. A number of important cultural festivals take place in the month of January every year. South India hosts many festivals during this pleasant climate. The first and the unique festival is that of the Elephant March. While caparisoned elephants go out in procession, boat races on the backwaters and cultural events lend colour to the festivities. The festival takes place in some of Kerala's major towns – Thrissur, Alleppey and Thiruvananthapuram
The Mamallapuram Dance Festival, held in the ancient port city of the Pallavas of Tamil Nadu, has performances by exponent dancers who perform Bharat Natyam, Kuchipudi, Kathak and Kathakali against the magnificent backdrop of the Pallava rock sculptures. Another delicately carved temple of Pattadakkal, in the southern state of Karnataka, the ancient capital of the Chalukyas, hosts an annual Pattadakkal dance festival, to celebrate the marvelous heritage. The classical dances performed with the backdrop of the elegantly carved temples gives the performances an aura of worship, rather than jus an art form.

Rajasthan pays tribute to the local animal, the ship of the desert in the month of January. In Bikaner the camels are bedecked and taken up in processions and even a few competitions are held. The festival, known as the Bikaner festival draws huge crowds.

The month of February is the perhaps the best of the months in the whole year, throughout India, in the terms of weather. As a result a number of cultural festivals are organized throughout the country during this time of the year. The crisp chilly winters are gone and the advent and smell of spring is in the air. Naturally all over the country the spirits are high during this time of the year and hence many festivals are organized in this month.
Although nearly every state has some or the other cultural extravaganza coming up during this time, there are some which attract tourists from the world over.

The month begins with a 15 day affair with the Surajkund Fair. The Surajkund crafts Mela as it is known all over India is significant due to the place where it is held. Surajkund is in Faridabad near Delhi. It was an ancient city associated with the great epic Mahabharata. Artisans from all around the country come her to display their handicrafts. The open air fair is based on a theme state every year. The ambiance is picturesque rural bazaar of India. Along with a vast choice to shop there are cultural shows arranged pertaining to the local art of the theme state. Cuisines form all corners of India are offered here.

The International Yoga Week held in Rishikesh, a small town in the Uttaranchal state, is to promote the age old tradition of Yoga. This week long event is held at the foothills of the great Himalayas on the banks of River Ganga. Detailed lectures and demonstrations of various forms and arts of Yoga by prominent Yoga masters are held during this week.

Two cities of Rajasthan come alive and bustle with life in February with the fairs they are host to. The golden city of Jaisalmer is the host to a three cultural extravaganza called the Desert Festival. Fire dancers swaying to traditional tunes, a turban-tying competition and a Mr. Desert contest are part of the fun of the occasion. Camel rides and folk dances at the sand dunes are an added attraction.

The Nagaur Cattle Fair is equally interesting. This annual cattle fair is believed to be the largest cattle fair in the world. Games and races of animals are the part of this festival.

The much awaited event in India, at the most coveted historical monument and epitome of Love, is the Taj Mahotsav. During this festival at Agra, the city of Taj Mahal, the best of the Indian cultural aspects are on display. Indian handicrafts travel from all the corners along with their cuisines for this festival. Great performers come from all over India to perform with the majestic backdrop of the Taj. Being a part of the Taj Mahotsav is a unique and unforgettable experience.

During this part of the year the nature is in full bloom. Various types of flowers with vibrant colors are on bloom. The Garden Festival of Delhi is just that. It is a magnificent display if exotic flowers and plants. Definitely a horticulturists’ delight. Rose Show of Chandigarh is also held in the same lines with only roses on display and the magnitude is much larger that of Delhi. Held in the Rose Gardens of Chandigarh, this is the biggest Rose show in the country.

Far in the North east festivals welcoming the spring are celebrated by various tribes of the region.
Down South one of the most famous cultural festivals organized during this time of the year is the Elephanta Festival. The Elephanta festival is a week long odyssey of classical dances, vocal and instrumental recitals and small skits and plays that are performed at the Elephanta Islands near Mumbai. The performers perform with the backdrop of the beautiful rock cut images, artistically developed centuries ago. The audience seats it self under the open sky on the ground. All this builds a perfect ambience for the cultural extravaganza. To reach the place is fascinating as well. Placed on an island, one can reach here only by traveling through the sea.
Near Mumbai the only one of its kind festival is celebrated at the coveted destination of Goa; the Goa Carnival. The exuberant Goa Carnival is the most famous annual feature of Goa which has been celebrated since the 18th century. Held in mid- February, just before Lent, the three day event is a time for feasting and drinking with lively processions, floats, the strumming of guitars and graceful dances. The great finale is with the famous Red-and-Black dance held by the Clube Nacional in Panaji.

Another recently started important festival organized further down south is the Deccan Festival, held in the Nizam’s city of Hyderabad. This annual affair celebrates the soul of the city with the local folk arts of the city. Mushairas are held and qawwalis and ghazals are sung. The pearls and bangles, the local specialties are put on display and so is the ethnic cuisine of Hyderabad.

The Andaman and the Nicobar Islands are the last tips of the vast Indian Subcontinent. The capital of Port Blair celebrates the arrival of spring by organizing a big cultural festival comprising of songs, dances and dramas known as the Island Tourism Festival.

The month of March has some of the most exotic cultural festivals taking place at the equally exotic locations. The Khajuraho Festival is a week long affair held at the erotic temples of Khajuraho. People from all over the world come to watch eminent artists perform under the aegis of the ancient wonderful temples. The sculptures and the stones magnify the performances. The Chandela Kings built the temples as an ode to life and living, the performances are an ode to the beauty within. The cultural festival is an enthralling experience with the ancient stone sculptures forming the background. An annual affair every March, it is a must visit event and a lifetime experience.

The other cultural festival that Madhya Pradesh hosts is the Tansen Music festival at Gwalior. The Gwalior Gharana has always been one of the most prominent styles of the Hindustani classical music. The lineage that Madhya Pradesh and especially Gwalior has provided to the Hindustani classical music under the patronage of various Kings is well known. The patriarch of the Hindustani Classical music and one of the nine jewels of the Emperor Akbar’s court, Ustad Tansen lays buried in Gwalior. This place comes alive with distinguished artists’ performances when the place becomes the venue for the annual music festival. What other better way to pay homage to the great singer but performing on his tomb, under his blessings.

The second important festival is the Ellora Festival that takes place at the ancient world heritage site of Ellora in Maharashtra. These intricately carved caves into the sides of a basaltic hill of the Sahyadri Mountain are the best examples of rock – cut caves in the whole world. It is the meeting point of three faiths, Buddhist, Jain and Hindu and nearly 1500 years old. The cultural programme of Dance and music is performed at the main Kailash Cave which is a lavishly carved cave cut from one rock and is world’s largest monolithic cave.

The Shivaratri Natyanjali Festival celebrated at the Chidambaram temple as a part of worship to the lord during the religious festival of Shivaratri, is a unique mode of worship. Dances and Songs are performed in front of the main deity as a form of worship and this festival goes on for five days.

The Pink city of Jaipur hosts the Elephant Festival in March. The elephants are decked up to their best and brought here. Various games between the elephants are held during this time.

The Hoysala Mahotsav held in the ancient temples of Belur and Halebid is the reminders of the glory of the Hoysala dynasty which promoted and encouraged dance and music during their rule.

The colourful Mewar Festival in Rajasthan is celebrated to welcome the spring in the romantic city of Udaipur. Dances, songs and colours are the essential factors of this festival celebrated in the Mewar region.
Similar festivals which show and encourage the folk culture of the place are held in various places during March. The Pataliputra Mahotsav of Patna in Bihar and the Jhansi Mahotsav of Jhansi belong to the same category.

The beginning of summer season in India is what the month of April brings in. While it becomes scorching hot in the western and southern parts of India, the northern and the north eastern parts still experience a pleasant weather. Normally it is the time when various regions celebrate their New Years according to their own calendars falling tentatively in the month of April. Thus hardly any cultural festivals take place in April. But the month of May which is the vacation time for educational institutes hence major cultural fairs and festivals take place in May.

The Urs of Ajmer, though a religious festival has become a fair of great attraction. Urs means Fair and this fair is held at the dargah of the Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti commemorating his union with God. People from all over the world gather here and pay homage to the great saint. Qawwalis and Ghazals are performed in praise of the saint by various artists. People tie threads to the intricately carved windows to fulfill their wishes.

The Northern and the North eastern states come alive with flowers and lush greenery during this time. Gangtok capital of Sikkim hosts the International Flower Festival during this time. A great variety of exotic Orchids and rare flowers are on display in April. This spectacular event comes with added attractions of mountaineering, Yak Safari and trekking.

Mostly all the hill stations come up with Summer Festivals in April to attract the visitors. Summer Festivals are held at various hill stations like the Mount Abu, Ooty, Shimla and many more. Various cultural programmes promoting the destination are held during this time of the year.

The month of June is the beginning of the rainy season for the southern part of India. Hardly any cultural festivals take place during the month of June due to rains and the heat in the northern parts of India. The only attraction of June is the Hemis Festival of Leh – Ladakh. Hemis is celebrated in the cold desert of Leh and Ladakh in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Hemis is the celebration of Birthday of Guru Padmasambhava celebrated in the monastery of the same name. Masked dances are performed and a huge fair is associated with this festival of the northern tip of India.

The month of July is the full humidity and rains. But one unique festival the Delhi International Mango Festival is organized in the month of July. As the name suggests the festival is dedicated to mangoes and there are innumerous varieties of mangoes present here. Mangoes from all over the world are on display and also on sale. Various products made of Mangoes are also on sale and various competitions such as the mango eating and the cooking various dishes out of mango are held during the week long festival. It is a mango mania throughout!!!

The Champukulam Boat Race of Kerala is another unique celebration of life and devotion. It is less known than the other boat races also held in the district of Alappuzha; it is the most ancient and celebrated boat races of Kerala. Its association with a legend related to Lord Krishna has made the race all the more important for the local people of the area.

Come the month of August and the most auspicious month in the Hindu calendar has arrived. The month of Shravan that falls in August, is dotted with festivals big and small throughout the month. There are so many religious festivals that hardly any cultural occasion takes place during the month of August. The most important cultural event of this month however is the Nehru Trophy Boat Race. This race held in the Alappuzha district of Kerala is an enthralling experience. About hundred men sit in the huge snake boat and row it in the same rhythm and pace to win the coveted Nehru Trophy. It is an amazing sight and tourists from all around the world are attracted to watch the rhythm of the men while one of them stands and coaxes them to follow the rhythm and win the race.

The month of September brings the famous Ganapati festival of Maharashtra. To add more attraction to the Festival, the cultural capital of Maharashtra arranges Pune Festival during the same time. The Pune festival is the cultural festival where artists from far and wide come to perform. The festival is full of various classical dances, music and theatre and goes on for 10 days in a row in front of the Lord Ganesh with his blessings. People from all around the world come to attend this festival.

October brings in pleasant weather and festivals galore. People are busy preparing for a host of festivals those come up during the month of October. It is the Marwar Festival celebrated in Jodhpur Rajasthan that celebrates the Marwar folk lore on the full moon night that falls in October. The folklore of the kings and their valour are sung and hummed in the Maand style of music, specialty of this region during this festival. Another important cultural festival held during the month of October is the celebrated in the small village of Rajgir in Bihar known as the Rajgir Mahotsav. It is a colourful festival of dance and music which is celebrated at once the capital of the Sakya dynasty and the birth place of Lord Buddha.

The month of November brings in a pleasant climate and high spirits for the people. Many religious as well as cultural festivals take place during the month of November. One of the most famous local festivals which also has a religious association is the Pushkar Mela or the Pushkar Fair. Pushkar in Rajasthan is a small village which comes alive during the fair in the month of November. It has Starting from the full moon in November this fair goes on for nearly 12 days. The Brahma temple that is found in Pushkar is full of devotees. Trading of cattle, their races and everything related to camels along with several handicraft items is the major attraction of this fair.

Around the same time the world’s largest cattle fair is held in Sonepur village on the bank of the River Ganga in the sate of Bihar known as the Sonepur Cattle Fair. This month long affair is great display of bedecked cattle from all over the country.

Reminder of the Nawab era of Awadh is brought alive during the Lucknow Festival. Celebrated in the capital city of Uttar Pradesh this festival celebrates Lucknow's living culture. This ten day long event witnesses colourful processions, traditional dramas, Kathak along with ghazals, qawwalis and thumri. Other exciting events like the ekka races, kite flying, cock fighting and other traditional village games recreate an atmosphere of the by gone era.

Hampi Festival celebrated in the southern state of Karnataka in the ruined temples of Hampi is a unique experience. The dance and the music recitals fill the air to form an ambiguous environment and fascinates all those who come to watch the festival.

December is the coldest month of the year in India. The southern states are pleasant and the northern states face crisp chilly winters. Along with Christmas and the New Year celebrations December brings in a host of cultural festivals and the most prominent amongst them is the Konark Dance Festival. India is a fascinating country with innumerous Gods and their innumerous temples. But the Sun temple of Konark is a unique temple with ancient legacy and surrounded by myth and legends. When these ancient temples form a backdrop to the dance performances, they actually come to be a form of worship or prayers by the dancers to the Lord of the temple. The Vishnupur Festival in West Bengal’s Vishnupur district celebrates the terracotta temples and the silk sarees that it is famous for during this festival.

These are the prime cultural festivals those are held annually in India. Other than these there is the International Book Fair of Calcutta and Delhi and Crafts Fair of Udaipur and Hyderabad. Nearly every state and the small temples or even the churches and the mosques complete the worship by arranging a huge fair for the occasion. India truly is a land of festivals and a land of cultural extravaganza.

Festivals of West India

webmaster@t2india.com — Sat, 15 Jan 2011 10:39:00 +0000

The colourful states of Rajasthan and Gujarat, the exotic Goa with the rugged Maharashtra with the union territories of Daman and Diu, form the western part of India. Along with the colorfulness, the songs and dances make a prominent impact in the festivals all over India. Western side is no exception with typical food items prepared for particular festival.

The Desert State of Rajasthan is famous for its vibrant celebration of festivals. The Gangaur festival is very much similar to that of the one celebrated in Madhya Pradesh. In Rajasthan too it is celebrated around March when the ladies bring home the Gauri, wife of Shiva and worship her and then on last day immerse the idol. The ladies throughout the festival sing songs and dance. They decorate themselves with henna on their palms and wear all the traditional jewelery. The Mewar festival takes place in the lake city of Udaipur during this time. An exhilarating welcome to spring, this festival is a visual feast with Rajasthani songs, dances, processions, devotional music and firework displays. An unusual procession of boats on the lake offers a fitting finale to this splendid celebration.

The Urs held every year in the scorching month of May, at the dargah of Sufi Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti in Ajmer commemorates his symbolic union with God. Pilgrims from all over the world gather here to pay homage. Qawalis and poems are presented in the saint’s honour. At the huge fair that springs up at this time, religious objects, books, rosaries, embroidered carpets and silver ornaments are on sale.

Celebrated in the month of February in Dungarpur, the colorful Baneshwar Fair is considered to be a tribal fair. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Lingam is bathed with milk and applied saffron. On this day the Lord gets offerings of wheat flour, pulses, rice, jaggery, ghee and even salt and chillies, with coconut and cash. The main attraction of this festival are the Bhils attending Baneshwar Fair singing traditional folk songs in high pitched voices sitting around a bonfire every night.

Teej is the festival of swings celebrated in August. Dedicated to the Goddess Parvati, it marks the advent of the monsoon. Swings are hung from trees and decorated with flowers. Young girls and women dressed in green clothes sing songs in celebration of the advent of the monsoon. Goddess Parvati is worshipped by seekers of conjugal bliss and happiness. An elaborate procession is taken out on the streets of Jaipur for two consecutive days on the festive occasion.

Down south of Rajasthan is Gujarat. One of the prehistoric states of India, Gujarat’s history goes back to the Jurassic age. Also famous for the Indus Valley civilization, this state is unique in its geographical features as well. A vast sea coast, jungles with ferocious lions and always welcoming people, Gujarat, the land of Gurjars, is a truly vibrant state. Dwarka once supposed to be the capital of Lord Krishna, is in Gujarat. Gujarat celebrates approximately 2000 festivals in year out of which most are regional based fairs and festivals dedicated to the deity. Some of the famous are The Kite festival. It is an international kite festival held during the Makar Sankranti in January. People from the world come to participate in this internationally acclaimed festival for a display of their kites.

The Dang Darbar coinciding with Holi in March is another big event in Gujarat. Held in the Ahwa region and Dang district it is a unique celebration of Holi by the tribes. Countless tribal people from the adjoining districts participate in the fair dressed in colourful traditional outfits dancing to the beats of drums. The huge Janmashtami celebrations held in Dwarka, the abode of Krishna is a delightful sight. The most important festival celebrated by the Gujaratis is the Navaratri in October, before Dushera.

Navaratri is an auspicious occasion that commemorates the worship of Divine Mother Goddess and her numerous manifestations. The nine-day cultural extravaganza wraps the entire Gujarat. During Navratri, a pot with attractive designs is ceremoniously placed a light is placed inside. Religious texts are read out and people fast and later cook Gujarati delicacies to eat. The main feature of the Navaratri of Gujarat is its typical dance called the Garba raas. Mostly all the Gujarati ladies can dance the Garba, a rhythmic dance, danced in a circle with clapping hands and traditional songs to accompany with. The rhythm which is initially slow grows faster and the dancers match their footsteps along with that fast rhythm. Another Dance form performed during Navaratri in every nook and corner of Gujarat is the Dandiya. The concept is the same, only here men too can participate and the dancers use small sticks to give a rhythm. Every street in Gujarat is decorated and people come in their fineries to participate in the dance. The mood, the attire and the music are so upbeat and vibrant that every year, the festival attracts tourists from India and abroad.

Diwali celebrated all over India in October is celebrated with equal vibrancy in Gujarat as well. It has a particular significance for the Gujaratis as the third day of Diwali is the New Year of the Gujaratis and is celebrated with much pomp and show all over Gujarat. People start their new businesses and wear new clothes and do all that is good on this day.

The rugged state of Maharashtra has a vast coast line starting from Gujarat and extending till Goa. Peaceful co existence of various religions is Maharashtra’s highlight, and is seen ff and on through the celebrations of various festivals. The Gudhi Padava or the Marathi New Year celebrated in April begins the year full of festivity in Maharashtra. The Marathis place a long decorated stick in front of their houses calling it Gudhi to welcome the New Year. They worship the Gudhi and start new ventures on this day.

Nagpanchami comes with onset of Shravan month falling in August. This festival brings in a list of festivities that go on till January. Nagpanchami is dedicated to Snake God. The ladies worship the snake and request him to leave the fields for some time so that the men folk can begin sowing and ploughing.

The Parsi New Year of Pateti is celebrated within the Parsi community of Mumbai, Maharashtra with much gaiety and fun. The Parsis visit the Agyaris and later spend the time with families and friends dancing, singing and eating good meals.

The coastal Maharashtra celebrates the Narali Purnima, worshipping the Sea God and offering Him coconut, on the full moon day falling in August. This day is also celebrated as the Raksha Bandhan day. Sweets made of coconut are prepared and distributed. Fifteen days after comes the festival dedicated to the cattle especially the bulls and the Oxen. Maharashtra being agriculture oriented state, Oxen carry immense importance in the lives of the farmers who earlier used to plough their lands with the help of these Bullocks. On the day of Pola, the farmer decorates his cattle, worships it and feeds them with goodies. It is a rest day for the Oxen and the cows and no farmer works on this day.

Within a week of Pola, in September comes the most famous and most lavishly celebrated festival of Maharashtra, Ganesh Chaturthi. Lord Ganesh, the patron deity of Maharashtra, is the God of wisdom. The festival is an eleven day festivity is the largest of its kind celebrated in India, with worshipping of idols and their immersion for ten continuous days. Dedicated to Elephant god Ganesh or Ganapati the festival celebrates the birth of the God. The whole of Maharashtra is in festive mood during this time. Idols are brought home and worshipped for ten days and immersed on the last day with people shouting, Ganapati Bappa Morya, pudhchya warshi Lawakar ya!! The Marathis also have the community celebration when huge Pandals are put up and huge idols of the Lord are installed for ten days and worshiped. Immersion too is a huge procession and the Marathis bid a tearful farewell to the God and wait for the next year to come. For ten days various cultural programmes are arranged like music concerts, orchestra, plays and skits. Some social activities are also undertaken like blood donation, scholarships for the needy or donation to the people suffering from any kind of natural calamity. In between these ten days, Gauri, Ganapati’s mother too arrives. She too is worshipped and prayed for three days and later immersed. The Dushera and Diwali are celebrated with equal fervor as that of the rest of India.

Come December and the preparations for Christmas begin in Mumbai, the hub of Christian community in Maharashtra. Churches and streets are decorated; the Christians hang stars in front of their houses. Bakeries overflow with goodies. A small replica of the scene depicting the birth of Jesus Christ is made in front of houses and Churches. Carols are sung on streets and Santa Clause can be seen in stores. Midnight and morning masses are held and attended even by Hindus. The air of festivity continues till the New Year arrives. On the New Year eve, streets are decorated and people stay awake the whole night welcoming the New Year.

The small state of Goa is perpetually in a festive mood all through the year with some or the other fair in the state. The Christians call it feasts, the Hindus call it jatra and the Muslims call it Urus. Three names but one sentiment… celebration. It means worshipping and praying the deity, eating goodies, drinking, dancing, singing, buying and selling and basically merry making. Although each religion has their own festivals all of them carry the typical Goan flavour. All the festivals and Jatras are celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm by one and all. People from all walks of life, rich or poor, old or young, Hindu or Christians celebrate the festivals together making it a Goan festival.

The Hindu festivals of Goa are similar to that of State of Maharashtra. The other unusual festivities of Goa are the festivals dedicated to local deities which later get converted into fairs. One such example is the Vasco Saptah. A week long festivity dedicated to Lord Damaodar, who according to legends once cured the on going epidemic after the worshiping, started. Held before the Chovoth, or the Ganesh Puja, similar to Maharashtra, this festival is held only in the town of Vasco. Apart from Easter, Good Friday and Christmas, there are end numbers of typical Goan Feasts celebrated by the Christians of Goa. Touxeachem Feast is held in the magnificent Church of St Anne also known as the Santana Church. It is dedicated to St Anne and the feast is celebrated on July 29. Touxeachem Fest (in Konkani) literally translates as the Cucumber Feast in English. The procession of Saints is the only of its kind taking place in India when the sleepy village of Goa Velha hosts this renowned and honoured Procession of the Saints on the first Monday of Easter week. The Feast of St. Francis Xavier is when Ceremonies to honour the death of St Francis Xavier who lies in a silver casket in the Church of Bom Jesus in Goa take place. The celebrations take place on December 3, the day he was buried. This day takes the shape of a great fair in the area.

The small union territories of Daman Diu and Dadra Nagar Haveli, being near to Gujarat, celebrate the same festivals that of Gujarat and Maharashtra. Being under the Portuguese rule, though they still carry the Portuguese impression and the Christian festivals like the Christmas are celebrated in their own unique way.

Festivals of Central India:

webmaster@t2india.com — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 13:21:00 +0000

The central part of India, till recently comprised of the biggest states of India, Madhya Pradesh. Now it has been split in to two with Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

A predominantly tribal state, with about 35 big and small tribes spread all over, Chhattisgarh is perhaps the most economically strong region of the country, and is endowed with rich mineral and forest wealth. It has a potential of becoming an important industrial centre.

Dominated by he tribals, other than the major Indian festivals, all the tribes have their own respective festivals with their own culinary and dancing affairs. Cherchera celebrated after the harvest is the unique festival of the people of Chhattisgarh, when they go asking for rice, the staple crop. The rice then is cooked and eaten; a traditional way of distributing what one reaps. Chhattisgarh has its own dance styles, cuisine, music & traditional folk songs in which Sohar songs, Bihav songs & Pathoni songs are very famous. For the tribes, the Bhils and the Gonds, every festival is followed by some sort of animal sacrifice. The tribals of Bastar often complement their economy by community hunts like Pandum and Parad.

Situated in the center, Madhya Pradesh was once the largest state in India. A visit to this land, in the very heart of India gives unexpected and delightful experiences. Madhya Pradesh has had a glorious past with various empires ruling the state. It has centuries-old culture of warriors and Builders, of Poets and Musicians, of Saints and Philosophers.

The Gana Gour festival is celebrated with much gaiety in Madhya Pradesh. The people believe that Gour, wife of Shiva, was married to Shiva and they stayed in Rajasthan. She could come home only once a year. This coming back is celebrated by these people here. They make small idols of the Gour and worship her along with her husband. The Gordhan festival celebrated after Diwali has its history in the legend of Krishna, who saved his village from drowning by holding the mighty Govardhan Mountain. Gordhan is celebrated as the festival of cows and cattle. The cattle is decorated and fed goodies on this day.

Festivals of North India

webmaster@t2india.com — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 11:35:00 +0000

Jammu Kashmir, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and the newly formed Uttarnachal state are the six states, which make the North part of India. The traditions and cultures of celebrating a particular festival differs not only from state to state but also from the hilly region to the plains. Festivity brings alive the spirit of the people staying in the northern part of India.

The all time fertile land of five rivers is Punjab. The land of the dare devil Sikh community. The religion was born to save the motherland and the Sikhs and the Punjabis, ready to take any risk, accepted it. India has been represented by the Sikh community venturing out for business to far fledged lands, more than anyone else from India.

Baisakhi is the New Year day, falling in Mid April, of the Punjabis. They sing, dance and make merry on this particular day. It is also a harvest festival, when the golden wheat ripens and fills the heart with Joy. It was on this day nearly 450 years back that the Sikh Guru started the custom close to baptism to Sikhism. People visit temples and Gurudwaras to worship. They gather and the men folk dance the famous Bhangra on the tune of huge drums and the women start the Giddha to accompany them. Preparing and eating goodies and singing is also part of the celebrations.

An annual festival held at Anandpur Sahib in Punjab, Hola Mohalla was started by the tenth Sikh Guru, Gobind Singh, as a gathering of Sikhs for military exercises and mock battles on the day following the festival of Holi. The word hola is adapted from halla, meaning attack, while mohalla means the place of attack. On this three-day festival mock battles are held followed by music and poetry competitions.

The martial tradition with mock battles and displays of swordsmanship and horse riding is the highlight if this festival held in March. Gurupurab is another important festival for the Sikhs and the Punjabis. Birthdays of reverend Sikh Gurus, Guru Nanak and Guru Gobind Singh and the martyrdom of Guru Teg Bahadur and Arjun Dev is remembered on these days. The first full moon night falling after Diwali is the birthday of the first Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak. The festival is celebrated with great exuberance. They burn crackers and decorate their houses with lights.

The state is full of surprises and is known as the paradise of India. Jammu and Kashmir are actually the crown of India, the northern most state. The mystic Leh, the beautiful valleys of Kashmir and the huge Shrines of Jammu, comprise a treat for the traveler. Followers of Islam, Buddhism and the Hindus, all stay in peace in this state blessed with natural abundance. The great Himalayan mountain range forms a superb background to this unique state.

All the Hindu, Muslim, Sikh and Buddhist festivals are celebrated here with all the enthusiasm and vibrancy. Vaitha-Vatur-Truvah which literally means thirteenth day of source of River Jhelum. It is held at an ancient temple at Verinag, the source of the Jhelum. Hindus and Muslims participate in this festival.

The Urs (or Ziarats) is a typical Kashmiri festival. It is held annually at the shrines of Muslim saints on their death anniversaries. Urs of Meesha Sahib, Urs of Batamol Sahib and Urs of Bahauddin are particularly famous. These Urs are popular despite the rigorous weather. Celebrated in different parts of Srinagar, not only Muslims but Hindus and Sikhs also take the blessings. Sindhu darshan festival is another important festival when the Kashmiris come from all over the state to worship the source of the River in Leh. There are many Buddhist Monasteries in the part of Leh as the major population of Leh and Ladakh practices Buddhism. Few typical Leh Buddhist festivals such as the Yuru Kabgyat celebrated in July. Dances with masks are performed and the masks worn by the lamas during the dances represent guardian divinities. Doscmoche is another ancient festival, still celebrated every year in February with great pomp and fervour.

The courtyard of the chapel below the gates of the Leh of the Leh Palace comes alive with the music of drums and the thumping steps of the masked Lamas from different monasteries performing the sacred dance-drama. The Lamas prepare, consecrate and eventually destroy the sacrificial offerings as the climax.

Himachal Pradesh, known as the abode of Gods is another picturesque region of Northern India. The people of this region based on the foothills of Himalayas are religious and celebrate their festivals with gaiety and pomp. The Phulaich festival celebrated in the Kinnaur district in month of September is unique in tradition. This four day festival is celebrated as the flower festival by the people of Himachal. The Rajputs of the village go to pluck flowers from a specified mountain and return only the next day. The night is spent singing and dancing. On the third day, the village deity is taken out and bedecked with all the finery along with the numerous flowers. A procession is taken out and the rests only the next day when an animal is sacrificed. Although this is a beautiful festival, the more famous and promoted is the Dushera of Kullu. Dushera is celebrated all around India, but not like that in Kullu. The celebrations start in Kullu when the celebrations of India for Dushera finish. The presiding deity of Kullu, Raghunathji is taken out on this day and around 600 deities of Himachal come to pay respect to this deity. Huge colourful processions mark the occasion and by the end of the festival the Lord is bathed in the Beas River and then taken back to its main temple. Singing and Dancing and worshipping is the core of this festival celebrated with pomp and show.

The state of Haryana is full of greenery and the places in Haryana are ancient having a mention in the Mahabharata. Due to the proximity to Delhi, some places in Haryana like Gurgaon and Faridabad have recently gained extreme importance as the satellite towns of Delhi and have been added to the list of the National Capital Region. All the common festivals like Holi, Diwali and Dushera are celebrated in the state. But the Haryanavis celebrate two important festivals with great fervour. Teej festival is celebrated during the month of July – August, to welcome the month of Sawan, bringing rains. Mainly ladies and girls enjoy this festival more than the men folk. The dupattas in bright red or pink with beautiful motifs of golden thread are worn, swings are hung on trees to play with and henna is applied on palms. A colourful festival, where the girls and the married ladies worship Lord Shiva and Parvati. Sanjhi is another important festival celebrated and worshipped as the mother goddess by unmarried girls of Haryana. They make the image of Sanjhi with mud using various shapes. These shapes include stars, moon, sun, face of the goddess and are then coloured. The festival takes place in early October or late September and the art associated with the festival is unique and very naïve. Gangore is celebrated around March -April. Idols of Ishar and Gangore are taken out in procession and songs in their praise are sung till they are immersed into water. This spring festival is held in honor of Gauri, the goddess of abundance.

Uttar Pradesh – the most populous states of India is also one of the most ancient cradles of Indian culture. Two great Rivers along with one mythological river that of Saraswati flow through this state. Abundant with natural wealth and resources, Uttar Pradesh ahs given India most of its Prime Ministers. The common Hindu festivals of Diwali, Dushera and Muslim festivals like the Ids are celebrated with vigour over here. The state wears a vibrant colour throughout the festivities. Some unique festivals to Uttar Pradesh includes the most famous, Lathmar Holi.

48 km. from Mathura at Barsana, is celebrated the famous Lathmar Holi of Braj. Tradition has it that Krishna from Nandgaon use to come to Barsana to play Holi with Radha along with his Gopi friends. The Gopis after merriment chased them away by beating them with lathis or big bamboo sticks. Hence the name. To this day, the village women beat up the men from Nandgaon and chase them away.

The month long Kumbh Mela of Allahabad is one of the largest fairs of the world and is attended by millions of pilgrims from all over India as well as the devout from the world over. This religious occasion takes place in the months of January-February, on the banks of the holy confluence of rivers Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati. It is believed that a holy dip on this occasion washes all the sins. There is annual Kumbh, six yearly and the most important is the one that comes every twelve years.

The beautiful Kartik Purnima festival or the Dev Deepawali celebrated in Varanasi or Benaras, is a visual delight. Varanasi is the land of festivals. The full moon night after Diwali falling in November – December is the sacred day for all the people. The ghats of Varanasi come alive with thousands of brightly lit earthen lamps. The lamps then are gently left on the River. Visitors throng in large numbers to watch this spectacular event.

Other important festivals celebrated in the Uttar Pradesh are the Ramnavami at the birth place of Ram, in Ayodhya and Janmashtami, at the place of Krishna in Mathura. These festivals are celebrated with great pomp and show in these two places as compared to other places in India.

The land of celestial beauty that is what the new state of Uttaranchal is all about. Blessed with magnificent glaciers, majestic snow-clad mountains, gigantic and ecstatic peaks, valley of flowers, skiing slopes and dense forests, Uttaranchal is traveler delight and also a pilgrimage site for the Hindus, nestling the four most sacred places of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri in its mighty mountains and deep valleys. The Mata Murti Ka Mela held in the Champavat region in September is the unique festival. On this day the mother of Badrinath is worshipped, and a large fair held at the Badrinath Temple. Among the four sacred places of India where the Kumbh is held, one of them is Haridwar in Uttaranchal. The Magh Mela during Sankranti in the Kumaon region is another important festival.

Festivals of East India

webmaster@t2india.com — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 11:29:00 +0000

The eastern part of India has five states namely the West Bengal, Orissa, Bihar, Sikkim and the newly formed state of Jharkhand. The cultures and traditions of these four states have intermingled although Orissa has traces of Andhra and Sikkim of Nepal. The vast Bay of Bengal lies on the eastern coast and the impeccable Himalayas in the north. The eastern side of India is full of surprises and abundant with beauty.

The state of West Bengal which was earlier a big state of Bengal has been split into two after the Independence of India, in 1947. Adorned with Nobel Laureates like Rabindranath Tagore and Mother Teresa, West Bengal, has some or the other festival going throughout the year. People are seen buying sweets and flowers for the festivity. The culturally forward Bengalis, primarily, are the worshippers of Shakti, Goddess Parvati in all her forms. Late February the festival dedicated to the Goddess of learning, Saraswati Puja or Vasant Panchami is celebrated. Students, teachers and artists worship the Goddess of learning and music. As the time is advent of spring, the day is also known as Vasant Panchami. People wear bright yellow and orange colour clothes to welcome the season. A huge celebration takes place in Shantiniketan during this time. Dances and songs are performed and wishes are exchanged. The Dol Purnima popularly known as Holi all around India is celebrated with equal fervor. The New Year of the Bengalis, Noboborsho, falls around mid –April. Bengali delicacies are cooked and people wearing new clothes wish and gift each other. 17th September is the Vishwakarma Puja, God of creation. People working with tools and machines worship their machinery and tools. Businessmen also keep the shops closed to worship the Vishwakarma.

The next festival is the biggest of all the festivals of West Bengal and celebrated with great enthusiasm in October is, Durga Puja. When the whole country celebrates Navaratri, the last four days are celebrated in West Bengal as Durga Puja. Beautiful Clay models of the Goddess killing the demon Mahishasura are made and installed in huge pandals. Durga’s four children Ganesh, Kartikeya, Lakshmi and Sarawati are installed beside her. For all the four days the Goddess is worshipped with all the rituals. Legend says that Mahishasura, the demon received a boon form Brahma of immortality. No one but a woman could kill him. The Gods then created Durga bestowing upon her their divine powers; she ultimately killed the demon and saved the land. The four days celebrated in West Bengal are the days of the war between the Goddess and the demon, in which ultimately good triumphs over evil. The pandals are greatly decorated and people throng to see the decoration in the night. Cultural programmes are organized and the festive spirit continues till the immersion of the idols. It is the season for gifts. New clothes are purchased. Shops overflow with the latest goods. The Grand finale is on the last day, which is called as the Bijoya Dashami. The married women give a tearful send off to the Goddess by smearing sindoor on her. Huge processions with bands of dhakis are taken out and the idols are immersed.

Five days after, on the full moon night comes the Lakshmi Puja. Idols of Lakshmi are installed and worshipped for a day. Offerings mainly of fruits and sweets are made to the Goddess.

Within fifteen days of Durga Puja comes Diwali celebrated all over India and known as Kali Puja in West Bengal. Once again idols of Goddess Kali are made and installed and worshipped. People enjoy eating goodies and burning crackers.The Christians and the Anglo Indians of Calcutta, celebrate Christmas and New Year, with great frevour.

Another prominent state in the eastern part of India is Orissa. Famous for its ancient connections with the Maurya dynasty, Kalinga as it was known then is today known as pilgrim of the east. The major eastern festivals of Durga and Kali Puja along with other common festivals are celebrated here. Magha Sapatami is the most popular and colourful festival of the temple city of Konark. This is an occasion for a grand congregating of Indian pilgrims who take holy dips in the Chandrabhaga Tirtha near the sea and welcome the rising Sun with prayers. This festival falls around end of February.

Jaggannath Puri is one of the four sacred pilgrimages of India. The Rath Yatra that takes place here every June –July is the most famous religious occasion. The three deities Lord Jaggannath, Balbhadra, his brother and Subhadra, his sister are taken in a chariot procession to their summer temple for a week. Prior to this, the three deities have a ritual boat ride after a refreshing bath in fragrant sandalwood scented water. This is followed by Snana Yatra, literally the festival of bathing in which the main images are bathed ceremoniously. The deities then retire to their garden home and after eight days, they return to the main temple riding their magnificent chariots, drawn by devotees. Hundreds of thousands gather from all over the country to witness this festival. New chariots are made each year. During the festival Puri turns into a sea of People. The idols made of wood are buried in the temple complex and new ones are made every twelve years. All can participate in this festival and actually touch the deity to take the blessings.

Jharkhand, the newly formed state was earlier part of the bigger state of Bihar. Primarily inhabited by tribes, this state is rich in Mines and Minerals, Industries, Wildlife Sanctuaries and Forests. Sarhul is the most famous festival among the tribes. Chaul is another festival celebrated.

The ancient state of Bihar was the main ruling point of the ancient dynasties of India. Places like the Pataliputra, now Patna and Nalanda have been mentioned in the epics and ancient scriptures. One of the most prominent sites of the Buddhist pilgrimage, Bodhgaya, rests in Bihar. Huge celebrations take place in Bodhgaya during Buddha Purnima. The Buddhists believe that Lord Buddha was born, attained enlightenment and also attained nirvana on the same day. Buddhist rituals for celebrating the three-in-one occasion are naturally elaborate. The day falls in the month of May. Bihar is also the birth place of the 24th tirthankar who preached the Jain religion, Lord Mahavir. Mahavir Jayanti is the most pious occasion for the Jain community. On this auspicious day grand chariot procession with the image of Mahavir are taken out, rich ceremonies are held in the temples, fasts and charities are observed, Jain scriptures are read, and at some places grand fairs are set up.

Other Hindu festivals are celebrated with equal vigour and pomp and show. The most famous festivals of all is the Chhath. Chhath falls on the sixth day in the month of Kartik, which is around November just after Diwali. The festival is dedicated to Sun God. Women keep fast and worship the Sun God during sun rise and sun set. The prayers are primarily for the well being of their children. They also take out a procession to honor the Sun God offer Fresh paddy, sweets & fruits. Chhath is a very joyous and colorful festival.

The small state of Sikkim on the foothills of the Himalayas is a beautiful unexplored religious state. Majority of the population here is Buddhist and although Hindu population is also present. Festivity all over India means songs and dance along with gifts and delicacies. But Sikkim’s dances are extraordinary and very much different from rest of India. The Losoong or the Sonam Losar is celebrated as the New Year around February. People rejoice and celebrate their harvest. Youth all over Sikkim have archery competitions and lama dances are held in some of the important monasteries two days prior to Losoong. These dances symbolically exorcize the evil spirits of the past year and welcome the good spirits of the coming year. Pang Lhabsol, celebrated in August is a unique Sikkim festival. The people of Sikkim worship and pray their guardian deity, the mountain of Khangchendzonga. Lamas portray the deity with fiery-red facemasks with a crown of five skulls, riding a snow lion. Tashiding Bumchu is another typically Sikkim festival. The Bumchu is a sacred vessel whose water level foretells the luck of the year ahead. It occurs around January – February and continuous for three days when devotees from different parts of Himalayas come for blessings and celebrations at Tashiding monastery.

Festivals of North - East India

webmaster@t2india.com — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 12:31:00 +0000

The mystic region of North East India comprises of seven states, popularly known as the seven sisters, which are Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, Manipur and Meghalaya. These North East Indian states have always been abundant in nature. The tropical forests are full of vast species of Flora and Fauna. Scarcely populated and mainly full of tribal population, these states always are on a celebration spree.

Assam - A land nestled in myths and mysteries, lore’s and legends. Assam is almost another world, the gateway to the eastern states, the coloured wonderland of India. The most important festival of Assam is the Bihu, the Assamese New Year Celebrations. This major festival of Assam is celebrated in three forms, the Bohag Bihu or Rongali Bihu in April, Magh Bihu or Bhogali Bihu in January and Kati Bihu or Kongali Bihu in October/ November. The most colourful is the Spring-Festival, Rongali Bihu, celebrated in mid- April. Essentially a festival mar king the beginning of an agricultural season, the people of Assam enjoy it with dancing and singing. Bhogali Bihu, the harvesting festival is celebrated in mid- January by community feasts.

Arunachal Pradesh is one of the most sparsely populated States on the eastern tip of India, sharing its borders with China, Bhutan and Myanmar. Known as the land of rising Sun of India, it is a fertile land with five rivers flowing through the State. Mainly inhabited by various tribes, the festivals here are based on nature and agriculture and dance is the soul of all these festivals.

Mizoram is on the southern tip of the North eastern region clamped between Myanmar and Bangladesh. The Mizo community is mostly follower of Christianity. Among other festivals, Chapchar Kut or Spring Festival is the most popular festival, celebrated after completion of the most arduous t ask of jungle clearing for jhum operations. On this day, people of all ages, young and old, men and women dressed in their respective colourful costumes and head-gears, assemble and perform various folk dances, sing traditional songs, accompanied by the beating sound of drums, gongs and cymbals.

The predominantly tribal state of Nagaland is blessed with high mountains, deep valleys and rich flora and fauna. Nagaland being inhabited by as many as 16-odd tribes, it is the land of festivals. Some tribe or the other has a celebration throughout the y ear. Every tribe has its own festival. Several festivals are connected with agricultural activities such as reaping, sowing and harvesting. Moastu festival is performed by Ao Naga in the month of May, after the sowing. People worship the deity sacrifice animals and sing, dance and make merry during the festival.

Tripura is one of the tiniest states in the Indian subcontinent. Although there are many tribes settling in this tiny state the dominance of Hinduism is quite prominent. More so because of the immense Bengali population in this state. Many festivals are celebrated in Tripura out of which the Kharchi Puja, worshipping the 14 Gods, near Agartala is its specialty. Held every year in the month of July, it attracts people from all over India. 15 days after the Kharchi Puja is the Ker Puja. A unique festival performed for the welfare of the state and its people. It is performed within a specific boundary and no one is allowed to enter or exit that boundary till the rituals get over. Song and dance is very much essential part of these festivals.

Well known as the Paradise of eastern India, Manipur is where Mother Nature has bestowed her bounty extra generously. All that can fascinate a tourist is what Manipur is all about. The world famous Manipuri Dance has originated from the temples of this exotic state in the North east of India. Celebrated for five days commencing from the full moon day February - March, Yaoshang is the premier festival of Manipur. The Thabal Chongba - a kind of Manipuri folk dance is particularly associated with this festival. Cheiraoba - Manipur New Year is celebrated in the month of April. People clean and decorate their houses and prepare special festive dishes, which are first offered to various deities. A part of the ritual entails villagers climbing the nearest hill tops in belief that it will enable them to rise to greater heights in their worldly life. This festival is celebrated by all irrespective of any religion. Other Hindu festivals such as the Durga Puja in October and the Jagannath Yatra in July also take place.

Meghalaya means the abode of the clouds and as the name suggests, Meghalaya gets torrents of rain. It is a region of great scenic beauty. The three important tribes of Garos, Khasis and the Jaintias have their own festivals, basically related to agriculture. Among the Garos, the most important festival is the Wangala or the Hundred-drum Festival held from November to December. This is a harvest festival celebrated in honour the Sun God. Nongkrem Dance is held annually for five days by the Khasis. It is a religious festival for thanksgiving to God Almighty for good harvest and to pray for peace and prosperity in the community. It is celebrated in the month of November. Behdienkhlam is the most important dance festival of the Jaintias and is celebrated after the sowing period is over. At Jowai town, this festival is celebrated in July.

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Festivals of South India

webmaster@t2india.com — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 10:32:00 +0000

The southern region of India comprises of four states namely Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh and the union territory of Pondicherry. The weather in these regions is mainly hot and pleasant during winters. The coastal areas are pleasant throughout the year with heavy rainfall during the monsoons. South India follows the Dravidian tradition and has different ways to celebrate their own festivals.

Karnataka celebrates all the national festivals and other religious festivals. But the most famous of them all is its special Dushera, popularly known as the Mysore Dushera. The Kannadigas celebrate this festival with pomp and glamour and dedicate the festival to Goddess Chamundeshwari. It is a 10-day long festival which falls in the month of October. On the last day of Vijaya Dashami, a colourful procession of caparisoned elephants carrying the idol of goddess Chamundi is taken through the gaily-decorated streets of the city. The festival was started by the Maharaja of Mysore and is being continued till date. The palace is illuminated every night and on the last day the former Maharaja leads one of India's most colorful processions. People from all around the world gather to watch the pomp and show exhibited in Mysore. The festival is celebrated in a grand style with scores of cultural performances in the great Durbar Hall of the Maharaja's Palace. Indeed a unique celebration of the common festival of Dushera.

Another unique festival of Karnataka is the Karaga which is celebrated in Bangalore in the honour of the queen of Pandavas, Draupadi. Karaga is celebrated on the full moon day of April, the first month of the Kannada calendar.

Yugadi is the New Year celebration in Karnataka. This falls on the day after the new moon day in April, the month of Chaitra. The formation of the Karnataka State is celebrated on the 1st of November and is a state festival.

The state of Andhra Pradesh lies on the south eastern side of India. The Telgus, as the people of Andhra are called, are religious and celebrate the festivals with great enthusiasm. Hyderabad being the capital of this state, which was ruled by the Nizam, has seen the state celebrating the Id festivals with great fervour. Biryani and Haleem preparations are the specialty of Telgu Muslims during Ramzan.

The festival of Makar Sankranti holds special place in Andhra community. This harvest festival is celebrated for 3 days in Mid January. The first day is Bhogi that is spent with gaiety. The second day is Sakranti. Many families arrange a doll show and invite their friends and give alms to the poor. The third day is Kanuma when they acknowledge their gratitude to the part taking of the animals. They decorate and worship their cattle.
The New Year falling in the month of April is called the Ugadi and celebrated with new clothes and sweets. The birthday of Lord Ganesh, Vinayak Chaturthi, falling in September is celebrated with great enthusiasm. Huge idols are installed and worshipped and on the last day they are immersed in the water.

Kerala, famous as God’s own country, is famous for its back waters and boat races. This small state has nearly equal population of Hindus, Muslims and Christians staying and celebrating their festivals in harmony. Vishu is the New Year of the Malayali people, which falls every year on 14th of April. The Keralites believe that they should see the best things when they wake up in the morning. Huge flower decorations and other goodies are kept in front of the deities and worshipped. Sweet meats are prepared out of jaggery, rice and coconut.

Another important festival is the Onam. Onam falls in August – September. This day is celebrated in the honour of the King Mahabali who once ruled Kerala. His period is believed a have been the golden age in the history of Kerala. He was a threat to the Gods and so they got him killed. But since he had proved to be a good king he was allowed to return to his country once a year. Onam is that day of the year and the people of Kerala rejoice the homecoming of their King. Elaborate flower motifs are made in front of their houses to welcome him and a fully vegetarian feast is cooked to satisfy the Kings palate. The Malayalis wear their traditional dresses, laden with gold ornaments and exchange gifts.

Trichur Pooram is celebrated in the sweltering heat of the summer season at the Vadakkunathan Temple in Trichur. It is believed that on this day the respective deities of other temples visit Vadakkunathan temple. Nine Deities from the neighbouring temples pay homage to Lord Shiva at the Temple. Processions of beautifully caparisoned elephants provide a magnificent spectacle. The festival is rounded off at night by dazzling firework displays. It is only on the day of Trichur Pooram that the non-Hindus are allowed to enter the ancient temple of Vadakkunathan.

The southern most state on the eastern coast of India is Tamil Nadu. This southern state is popularly known as the temple state of India. The main local festival celebrated here is the Pongal. Pongal is the harvest festival celebrated for three days in Tamil Nadu. Bhogi is celebrated on January 13, Pongal on January 14 and Mattu Pongal on January 15 every year. During this time people wear new clothes and draw beautiful motifs in front of their houses with rice flour. The cattle too is decorated and rested during this time. Sweet made of the first rice is cooked, which is known as the Pongal.

Commonly known as the Float Festival, this magnificent festival is celebrated in Madurai. On the night of the full moon in January, ornamented icons of goddess Meenakshi and her consort are taken out in a colourful procession to the huge Mariamman Teppakulam. The icons are floated in the tank on a raft decked with flowers and flickering lamps. The Meenakshi Kalyanam is a ten day festival, which takes place in April – May at Madurai. On this day the Goddess Meenakshi is wedded to Lord Shiva. The deities are taken out in the decorated chariots and the festival is celebrated with lot of pomp and show.

The Karthigai Deepam festival can be termed as an extension of Diwali in Tamil Nadu as it falls just after the main festival of Diwali. It is the festival dedicated to the immortal light created by lord Shiva. Many houses add one lamp for the day from Diwali and by this day the houses are full of Lamps. The lamps are worshipped and they burn day and night also on the streets.

Situated on the Coromandel Coast, about 160 km south of Chennai, lies the Union Territory of Pondicherry. The French ruled this territory for 300 years, and today, it stands as a living monument of the French culture in India. Festivals are organized nearly every month in Pondicherry. With the still persistent French influence, the festivals although similar, have a slight difference from the rest of India. Pongal of Tamil Nadu is celebrated with equal fervour in Pondicherry. The Masimagam festival in mid March is a huge celebration when deities of around 50 odd temples from nearby reach Pondicherry. A sanctimonious sea bath is then held on the beach. Thousands come to witness and participate in this festival. The Veerampattinam and the Villianur Car Festival are held in July and May respectively. The deities of these temples are taken out on carriages, which are drawn by devotees. Masquerade, held in March - April, is a popular mask festival, during which brilliantly costumed and masked people of Pondicherry, dance down the streets to the music of trumpets and accordions. During the Eve of the Bastille Day in July, retired soldiers parade the streets in war finery, singing the French and Indian National Anthem.

Festivals of India (Part 4)

webmaster@t2india.com — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 11:19:00 +0000

September, October and November are the three months in the Indian calendar when festivals are followed by other festivals and rejoicing never ends. The weather starts cooling by this time. The rains have just stopped. The nature is in its full bloom. Flowers, fruits and vegetables are in abundance and of course that gives a reason to rejoice in forms of various festivals. Every state individually have heir own festivals and some festivals are common.

NAVARATRI:

By the end of September and in the beginning of October comes the nine day and nine nights’ festivities called the Navaratri. This festival is celebrated for nine continuous days. These nine nights the people worship the Shakti and her forms. Temples are decorated and deities are worshipped. Some people also keep fast for nine days and some refrain from having non vegetarian food and alcoholic drinks. The festival is celebrated all around the country although in different ways and is termed differently; the basic reason remains the same. Actually India celebrates two Navaratris. This one is known as the Sharadiya or the Akalbodhan. Legend says that Goddess of Shakti is to be worshipped during the Vasant Navaratri. But Ram wanted to worship the Goddess at this time, a wrong time of the year, before his war with Ravan. So he invoked the Goddess and worshipped her. Since then this Navaratri has become more famous. More so as Ram won over the demon king Ravan on the tenth day.

GANDHI JAYANTI:

The birthday of the great Indian leader, on October 2nd, called as the father of the Indian Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, is the third and last national festival celebrated by India. Homage is paid to the great leader by various dignitaries on this day. All religion prayers are held and people enjoy a holiday.

DUSHERA:

The grand finale to the nine day festivities of Navaratri is the Dushera. It is said that Prince Ram of Ayodhya won over the demon King Ravan on this very day. This is also considered as the last day of exile of the Pandavas in the epic of Mahabharat. It is celebrated all over India as one of the most pious days according to the Hindu religion. Huge effigies of the demon King Ravan and his son and brother are made and then burnt. People wear new clothes and rejoice and make sweets and distribute them. It is known Dasara, Vijaya Dashami and Duserah in various parts of the country but celebrated with equal enthusiasm. The festival marks the win of good over the evil.

DIWALI:

The most famous and also the most awaited festival of the Indians falling in late October and early November is the festival of lights, Diwali or Deepavali. This festival of lights means triumph of the good over the evil. It falls in late October or early November every year and is celebrated by all with great enthusiasm. People specially buy new clothes, renovate or colour their houses. A variety of dishes, sweet and spicy, both are made. People burn crackers and hang lanterns in front of their doors. According to legends after killing the demon King Ravana, Ram, came back home after an exile of 14years. That was the time during Diwali. It is also said that Krishna also killed Narak, the demon on this day.

The Goddess of wealth is worshipped on this day. This festival falls on the darkest night of the year; therefore innumerous lamps are lit all around India to wipe out the darkness. Two days later falls the festival of Bhai Duj, Bhai phota, or Bhau bij. The sisters worship Gods and pray for their brothers’ well being on this day. A celebration of lights, sweets and colours is what Diwali is all about.

GURUPURAB:

The first full moon night falling after Diwali is the Guru Nanak Jayanti; that is the birthday of the first Sikh Guru. The Sikh community all over India celebrates this festival with great exuberance. They burn crackers and decorate their houses with lights.

RAMZAN ID:

This festival celebrated by the Muslims varies in dates. Sometimes it may fall in summer while sometime in winter. It is believed that God conveyed the message of Koran to Hazarat Mohammed through Gabriel in the days of Ramzan. The whole month of Ramzan is sacred. All through this month the devout Muslims keep strict fast during the day. After sunset, Namaz is offered and then the fast is broken. It begins with the new moon and terminates with next new moon. The last day is known as the Id – ul- fitr. This day is celebrated by the people. People wear new clothes, prepare sweets and greet each other.

The month of December is the coldest all over India. But the southern parts of the country and the coastal areas are soothingly pleasant and cool. December mostly does not have any religious festival other than Christmas. But all over India some or the other cultural festival is on during this time of the year. The schools organize picnics and sports and cultural festivals. The crisp air rejuvenates the spirits and people wait eagerly for the New Year to come.

CHRISTMAS:

The only religious festival falling in the last month of the solar calendar is Christmas. The festival is the celebration of the birth off Jesus Christ to Virgin Mary. The Christian community of India celebrates this festival with all the glitter and glamour. Churches are lighted up, bakery shops and houses are decorated. People buy new clothes and eat goodies. Carols are sung and Santa Clause entertains children. Mass and sermons are held in the Church and whole air is filled up with festivity which in some places lingers till the New Year dawns.

Festivals of India (Part 3)

webmaster@t2india.com — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 13:20:00 +0000

Around the month of April, the summers are already on. The days are hot and become hotter in the south by the end of the month. April normally comprises many regional festivals. Mostly because it is the first month in the Hindu calendar.

MAHAVIR JAYANTI:

India has a large Jain community which celebrates the birth of the last, the 24th Teerthankar, Lord Mahavir. The Jains celebrate the birth anniversary of Mahavir, the founder of Jainism on a large scale. This religious event is largely observed by visiting sacred sites and worshipping the Teerthankars.

HINDU NEW YEAR:

The Hindu New year is celebrated through out the country in nearly all the states with different names. People mainly cook and eat sweets and wear new clothes and wish each other on this occasion. They sing and dance and start with new ventures on this day.

RAMNAVAMI:

The ninth day of the first month in the Hindu calendar is celebrated as the day of birth of the Hindu God, incarnation of Vishnu and the hero of the epic Ramayana, Lord Ram. The festival is celebrated all over the country with people fasting and worshipping the Lord for the whole day. Ramnavami is also celebrated as the Vasant Navratra and the celebration starts from the first lunar day of the bright fortnight of Chaitra and lasts up to Ramnavami. On Ashthami or the eighth day, Durga is worshipped. Both Ram and Durga symbolize the victory of good over the evil.

GOOD FRIDAY AND EASTER:

Good Friday falling in April is observed by the Christians as the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. More than a celebration, it is the commemoration of the crucification. Christians in India observe fast 40 days prior to this period known as the lent. Masses and prayers are held. Two days later it’s Easter. Easter marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is a day of great rejoicing and merry-making. Easter symbolizes the ultimate victory of good, over evil. Feasts are given, sweets exchanged and processions taken out on this occasion. Edible artificial and hard-boiled eggs are given on Easter as gifts among the Christian society in India.

The scorching Indian summer starts by late April in the southern parts of India and by mid – May the Sun rays just roast the people all over India. Only the places at the foot hills of the Himalayas, or those surrounded by mountains, experience cool weather, during this time of the year. Many Hill stations of India organize various festivals to attract tourists in May. There are hardly any festivities during this time of the year.

BUDDHA POURNIMA:

On the full moon day falling in May is the Buddha Pournima. A great day for the followers of Buddhism, who believe, that Lord Buddha was born, attained enlightenment and also left the mortal world on this very day. Huge celebrations and prayers are held at Bodhgaya in India and elsewhere also. The day is spent chanting hymns and prayers all day long.

Summers continue in the month of June and July brings down the showers all over India. After the first rains the farmers are busy tilling the soil and pray for a good harvest. Small festivities regarding these prayers are celebrated regionally during this time of the year. The showers have slowed down by the month of August. This is supposed to be the most pious month in the Hindu calendar, called as the month of Shravan. Onset of Shravan brings festivities and celebrations throughout India.

RAKSHA BANDHAN:

The first full moon falling in August celebrates the relations between a brother and a sister. On this day sisters tie a sacred thread called Rakhi on their brothers’ wrists and pray for their well being while the brothers return the love by gifting them and promising to take care of the sisters for the rest of their lives. This full moon day is celebrated as Nariyal or the Coconut Pournima along the coastal areas of India. It is basically festival of the fishermen who pray the sea God seeking his permission to venture into the sea to fish, after rest of two months, which is the peak monsoon season. Sweets made of coconut are prepared and everyone enjoys. In South India, it is celebrated as Avani Avittam. The holy thread is changed and libation of water is offered to the ancestors and Rishis on this occasion.

INDEPENDENCE DAY:

India gained independence from the British on 15th August 1947. This day is celebrated as the National day in India. The Prime Minister of India hoists the tri colour on the historic Red Fort in Delhi and gives a speech addressing the nation. The day is celebrated vibrantly by people and especially young children by making and hoisting flags and singing the national anthem. Chief Minister of various states hoists the flag and address the state.

KRISHNA JANMASHTAMI:

Eighth day of the black half in the month of Shravan is celebrated as the birthday of Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Vishnu. Legend says that the Lord was born in the midnight and it was raining heavily then. People all around the country celebrate this festival with equal fervour. They fast the whole day and rejoice the birth in the middle of the night by breaking the fast. Songs and dances are performed all around the temples of India and children make a small display of the birth scene of Lord Krishna.

Festivals of India (Part 2)

webmaster@t2india.com — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 12:53:00 +0000

Although normally the Indian calendars are based on the moon and the New Year begins sometime around March – April, we shall see the festivals from January.

The month of January is very cold in the northern region of India where the temperatures vary from 10 degree Celsius to 10 degrees below the freezing level. But the rest of the India enjoys the most pleasant climate during this time of the year.

SANKRANTI:

Probably the only Hindu festival that falls on the stipulated date, that is January 14^th, every year. This is the time when the Sun changes its course and comes into the northern hemisphere. This is known as the Uttarayan of the Sun in the sun sign of Capricorn or Makar. This day is celebrated in various ways all around the country. Just the names are different. It is known as Pongal in the south, when the people celebrate the harvest and make puddings out of the first paddy that is cut. In the north the previous day is celebrated as Lohri, when the people light huge bon – fires and sing and dance around it. All around India, sweets made of jaggery and various nuts made and eaten as they help the body fight the cold winter. People in the western part of the country fly kites on this day. The city of Ahemedabad in Gujarat holds a big Kite festival on this occasion for which people from various countries come and participate.

REPUBLIC DAY:

India was formed as a republic country on January 26^th 1950. This day is celebrated as the Republic day and is a National Holiday. It is celebrated all over the country where the Governors of the state hoist the National Flag and take the honour of Guards. It is celebrated in an exuberant and grand scale in the Capital, Delhi. The President hoists the national flag and takes the guard of honour from all the three forces. There is a spectacular show of all the armed forces, with tableaus of various states and dances and songs performed on the Rajpath. The grand finale is performed by the spectacular show of the fighter planes. This beautiful ceremony is attended by dignitaries and commoners too and is telecasted live on television. People are honoured for their distinguished job on this day.

The month of February brings along with the on setting of spring and crisp air. Other than the places near the Himalayas the whole country gets ready to welcome the spring. Practically, the best month to tour, the whole of India.

MAHASHIVARATRI:

This festival dedicated to Lord Shiva is celebrated all over India. There are many legends in the Indian mythology which gives the reason behind celebrating this festival. People not only pray the Lord on this day but also keep a fast and refrain from sleeping in the night. Especially the married ladies pray for a long life for their husbands. Legends say that Lord Shiva married Parvati on this day. Another story goes that it was this day when the Lord assumed a form of Lingam. Some say this was the day when he consumed the poison from the ocean, while others say that it was on this day that he asked Ganga to come down and purify the earth.

BAKRI ID or ID UL ZUHA:

Although the Muslim festivals follow their own calendar, the Bakri Id as it is popularly known is celebrated around February or March every year. It celebrates the sacrifice of Hazrat Ibrahim, who willingly agreed to kill his son at the behest of God. To celebrate the event, Muslims sacrifice one animal per family or group of families. There are prayers in mosques, feasting, and rejoicing. New clothes are worn and visits and greetings are exchanged.

The month March brings in the spring season in the north when the days are pleasant and nights are cool, while it gives a hint of approaching summer in the south. It is supposed to be the last month in the Hindu calendar.

MUHARRAM:

Another Muslim festival that falls around March is the Muharram. It is not a festival to celebrate but a day is remembered and mourned as the martyr’s day of Imam Hussein. People take out big taziyas or processions on this day crying and mourning for Hussein. In some places people hit themselves and hurt themselves trying to remember the sufferings of Hussein.

HOLI:

One of the biggest festivals celebrated all over India. Holi is the last festival in the Hindu calendar and is celebrated by young and old, rich and poor and people from all the religions alike. It is the festival to welcome the spring and summer. People smear colours and splash water on each other and have fun. Sweets are prepared and people play with water and colours till late in the afternoon. Myriad colors of the blossoming flowers coupled with the tender green leaves, the melodious chirping of the birds, and an aura of romance and merriment marks the advent of the season of spring or Vasant. Holi enhances the romance of this season with its splurge of colors.

Keep reading for more...

Festivals of India (Part 1)

webmaster@t2india.com — Wed, 10 Nov 2010 11:04:00 +0000

India will amaze you. This has been said too often but not without a reason. The Vast oceans and great rivers in the plains; the enchanting sea beaches and the calm back waters of the south; the Jungles and the snow capped mountains of the north; the ancient Temples, Churches, Mosques and Gurudwaras; a melting pot of nearly all the religions and various cultures; rich with flora and fauna and technically forward country, India is a traveller’s dream come true. A visit to India will change your life.

The Indian calendar is full of festivals starting form the birthdays of Deities, saints and prophets to celebration of various seasons and mythological stories. Some of the festivals are celebrated as national days.

The huge subcontinent has ancient civilization and is an inheritor to a rich and diverse cultural tradition. Festivals and Fairs play a definite role to add to the enchantment, and help exploring the rich 4000 year old culture of India. The Fairs and Festivals celebrated across the length and breadth of the land present a fascinating pageant and showcase the resplendence of its arts and crafts tradition. Some festivals are of religious nature, others are linked with the lives of the people, change of seasons and harvesting. Each festival is unique in style and is characterized by color, gaiety, enthusiasm, feasts and heterogeneity of prayers and rituals. And although each religion celebrates their own festivals, they also participate in the other festivals with equal enthusiasm and fervor making the festivals typically Indian. Last but not the least, although most of the Indian festivals carry legends behind them, there is some scientific reason attached to them. Like Holi, which marks the end of winter and therefore splash of water is necessary. Diwali, which is the darkest and the coldest night, is lighted up with innumerous lamps all over, so on and so forth. Each festival in the Indian calendar carries a legend and a reason behind the celebration, which also includes the food that is eaten during the particular festival.

India is a vast country with different demography hence every region and state have their own ways of celebrating their festivals. Some of them are celebrated in a common way while some are very regional festivals.

1. Common festivals:

Although normally the Indian calendars are based on the moon and the New Year begins sometime around March – April, we shall see the festivals from January.

The month of January is very cold in the northern region of India where the temperatures vary from 10 degree Celsius to 10 degrees below the freezing level. But the rest of the India enjoys the most pleasant climate during this time of the year.

Keep reading more to come on my next post....