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Events and festivals in
India
Events and festivals in India
If anything characterizes India it is its color, liveliness, the hustle and bustle of its people and its joyous festivities, some of which are imitated internationally as is the case with Holi. In many cities, the national holidays are strongly linked to Hinduism, the most widespread religion in the country, and the festivities stand out for their dances, parades and flower offerings.
The Indian calendar, as in other countries Asians, is governed by the cycles of the moon so that each year the dates tend to change. Here you will find the most important popular festivals of India.
Bikaner Festival
One of the most popular festivals takes place in the city of Bikaner, in the Rajasthan region, where camels play a pivot role in the celebrations. Camels are paraded and decorated in colorful motifs, flowers and ornaments. A camel race is held and there are several musical concerts and events, where you can watch traditional regional dances.
Diwali
One of the most important festivals in the country, since it marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year. It is customary to eat lots of sweets, set off firecrackers and fireworks and light bright candles. India truly lights up on this day. In this festival Lakshmi is worshiped, the consort of the god Vishnu, Ganesha or Kali.
Gandhi's Birthday
The birth of Gandhi is celebrated throughout India, making it a national holiday. Also, the same day is marked by the UN as the International Day of Nonviolence. Throughout the country, there are prayer ceremonies and images of Gandhi are proudly displayed in the streets.
Gangaur
This festival is dedicated to the Hindu deities Shiva and Parvathi. It is celebrated especially in the region of Rajasthan where, for two weeks, different parades are organized with vibrant carriages, floats and animals. The procession, in celebration of marriage, is often joined by many of the regions single women
Holi Festival
The best known Indian festival of them all, since it is also celebrated in many European cities. Celebrations are organized throughout India, where bonfires are built in the streets coloured powders are thrown around in celebration of the coming of Spring.
Makar Sankranti
One of the most colorful and joyful national holidays in India. It is celebrated throughout the country, although depending on the region the celebrations differ in their content. The festival date corresponds to when the sun enters the Tropic of Capricorn. Some people tend to enjoy bathing ceremonies on the day, although the most typical celebrations are the impressive kite contests. The sky fills with hundreds of brightly coloured kites, making for a unique scene.
Summer Festival of Rajasthan
This festival, which is celebrated in the summer at the entrance to Mount Abu in Rajasthan, begins with several folk songs and dances from India. The party goes on for three days, and there are several concerts of classical music, folk dance and displays of tribal culture. There is also an impressive boat race on Lake Nakki.
Teej Festival
Teej is celebrated in almost all of India, although the largest celebrations can be found in the regions of Punjab, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. The Teej Festival is aimed at women, as it commemorates the union of Shiva with Parvathi in favor of marriage and family. During the celebrations, you can expect to see several parades and lively dances. The god of rain is also welcomed during the festivities.
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