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Major Events in India |
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Indians believe in constant celebration of life so 'events' in India mean nothing but festivals and fairs. Very rich and diverse culture of this multi-faceted country makes India a land of festivals and fairs. Almost every day of the year is celebrated as a festival here. Some of these festivals are celebrated as a welcome of seasons, the rains, the full moon or the harvest. Religious occasions, birthdays of saints, and gurus (revered teachers) or divine beings, or the advent of the new year are also celebrated as festivals. Many of these festivals are very popular among Indians. Even if different names may be used for them or the way of celebration many vary some how. As these festivals are celebrated by varied cultures and through their special rituals, these add to the colours of Indian heritage. Some of the important festivals in India are as follows.
Republic Day
This is the most important national event of India. Celebrated on January 26th every year, this festival unites whole of the country with patriotic fervor. Way back in 1950 on this very day Indian constitution came into force and India became a truly sovereign and democratic republic. A grand procession in Delhi is the main attraction of Republic Day.
Holi
Held in February/March, Holi is the most colourful festival of this country. Celebrating the beginning of spring and death of demoness Holika, Holi is, in fact, is the celebration of joy and hope. This festival of colours brings an opportunity to let off some steam and settle old scores in a playful manner.
Kumbha Mela
Held four times very twelve years, this riverside festival is known for its crowd, largest in the world. Sacred site festivals in India are called melas. These are a vital part of the pilgrimage tradition of Hinduism.
Rath Yatra
Held at Famous Jagannath Temple at Puri (Orissa), this chariot festival is celebrated for eight days. Thousands of devout Hindus reach Puri during this festival with the firm belief that even the glimpse of Lord Jagannath on chariot gives salvation.
Deepawali
Festival of Light – Deepawali – is one of the most important festivals of Hindus. Devoted to Mother Lakshmi (Goddess of Wealth), Deepawali marks the victory of light over darkness. Light here means knowledge and darkness means ignorance.
Dussera
Festival of Dussera is celebrated in many parts of the country with great fanfare in Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka and West Bengal in slightly different forms. The most important festival in India, Dussera symbolizes the defeat of Ravana by lord Rama and the triumph of warrior Goddess Durga over buffalo demon, Mahishasura.
Id-Ul-Fitr
Popularly known as the 'Festival of the Breaking of th Fast', Id-Ul-Fitr is celebrated as soon as the new moon is sighted at the end of the month of fasting, Ramadan. Intended to be a festive and joyous occasion, special foods and delicacies are prepared for the day and are distributed among friends and neighbours.
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