Dussehra
(All over India)
Celebrated
to mark the defeat of Ravana by Lord Rama,
Dussehra symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.
The Ramila - an enactment of the life of Lord Rama,
is held during the nine days preceding Dussehra. On the
tenth day, larger than life effigies of Ravana, his son and brother
- Meghnath and Kumbhakarna, are set alight.
In
West Bengal, puja pandals have beautifully decorated
images of the goddess Durga and people gather here in large
numbers to enjoy the festivities.
In
South India, houses are decorated with displays of toys
and clay images of gods. Relatives and friends visit each other
to exchange greetings.
In
Gujarat, the exuberant Navaratri celebrations
include dancing the lively garba and dandiya ras.
In
Himachal Pradesh, a week-long fair in the hill town of
Kullu, is a part of the Dussehra celebrations. From
the little temples in the hills, deities are brought in procession
to the 'maidan' in Kullu, to pay homage to the reigning
deity, Raghunathji.
Mysore
- the city of palaces, celebrates the ten day Dussehra
in a royal style. The Mysore Palace is illuminated with a myriad
lights. Majestic processions, a torch light parade and dance and
musical events enliven the tranquil city.
Muharram
(All over India)
Commemorates
the martyrdom of the Prophet Mohammed's grandson—Imam
Hussein. Tazias, glittering replicas of the martyr's
tomb, are carried in procession through the streets. The tazias
of Lucknow and Hyderabad are noted for their splendour.
Marwar
Festival (Marwar, Rajasthan)
The
festival celebrates the 'Maand' style of folk music - an
evolved classical style that describes the romantic life of Rajasthan's
rulers. Held during Sharad Purnima, the folk artistes bring
alive the legends and folklore of earlier times.
Diwali
(All over India)
This
festival of lights is the prettiest and the most eagerly awaited
occasion in India. It celebrates the return of Lord Rama,
the hero of the epic Ramayana, to Ayodhya after
a fourteen year exile. The flickering lights of the traditional
clay lamps or 'diyas' illuminate the houses and fireworks resound
through the night. The goddess of wealth and prosperity - Lakshmi,
is worshipped on this day. Houses are white washed and elaborate
designs drawn at the thresholds to welcome the goddess. The exchanging
of gifts and sweets among friends and relatives and playing of
games of chance at night, are all an integral part of the celebrations.
Gandhi
Jayanti (All over India)
The
birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi - the 'Father of the
nation' (2nd October). The President and Prime Minister, along
with other eminent political leaders, pay homage at Raj Ghat
- the samadhi of Mahatma Gandhi. All the offices
and schools, throughout the country, remain closed on this day.
Rajgir
Mahotsav (Rajgir, Bihar)
This
colourful festival of dance and music is held at Rajgir, the ancient
capital of the Magadha kings - the land where the Buddha
meditated and preached.
