Shab-i-Miraj

The meaning of Shab-i-Miraj is the "night of Ascent", on this blessed night the Holy Prophet of Islam was spiritually reached to heaven, his journey was not with his physical body. The Holy Prophet attained the highest stage of nearness to God Almighty that is beyond the range of ordinary person. His journey took place on 27th day or Rajab, 2 years before Hijra. The festival comes in the month of June-July.


History: As per the Muslim legends, the night journey has two parts-First is a journey that Islamic prophet Muhammad took in one night on a winged horse it was a physical journey. On the other hand, some Muslims beliefs hold the view that it happened spiritually through a metaphorical vision. The prophet reached the Seventh Heaven, there is a Kabah of sorts for the angels. Legends say that,the day when Muhammad reached the Seventh Heaven,since the dawn of time 70,000 angels entered and were never seen again.


How it is celebrated: On Shab-i-Miraj, the streets, houses and the mosques are fully decorated with electric candles,lights and oil lamps. In evening, people gather in the mosques and sing hymns in Prophet's praise. After Isha Prayer, public meetings are also held where speakers throw light on the various spiritual aspects of Prophet's life. Sweets are distributed after the meeting and the devotees give money in charity and distribute food among the poor.

Significance: Shab-i-Miraj holds special importance among Muslims, it is believed that the Holy Prophet continued his journey till he reached the Throne of God Almighty. To commemorate his journey, five daily prayers are made obligatory upon Muslims.

Shivaji Jayanti

Shivaji Jayanti is the birth anniversary of Shivaji Maharaj, it is celebrated on 19th February. Shivaji Maharaj was born on 19th February, 1627. He was named after a local Goddess Shivai. Shivaji was a son of Jijabai and Shahaji Bhonsle . He is known as a creator of the Maratha nation. His birthday is celebrated with great enthusiasm.


History: Chatrapati Shivaji was a hero for the people of Maharashtra,he was born in Shivneri Fort, 60 kms north of Pune. Shivaji Maharaj was introduced to great Indian epics of Ramayana, Mahabharata and other holy books by her mother Jijabai. Shivaji grew up as a powerful and fearless military leader, his civil and military administration was of greatest importance. He was given the Title of Chatrapati in the year 1674,he left an indelible mark on the pages of Indian history. He died in 1680. He has been a source of inspiration for generations.


How it is celebrated : Shivaji Jayanti is celebrated with great pomp and enthusiasm.Several processions are taken out and the people dress up in an attire of Shivaji.Various programs are held in the memory of Chatrapati Shivaji.

Significance: Shivaji Maharaj is celebrated remembering the achievements of the Great Maratha Ruler, he was a real hero of not only for the people of Maratha but for the whole of the India.

Ganga Dussehra

River Ganga holds a significant place in Indian Life,it is the largest of the rivers of India. Ganga Dussehra is celebrated on the tenth day of Jyeshtha, this festival comes in the month of June. During this festival, ten days of the month are dedicated to the worship of Holy River Ganga. River Ganga is regarded as a goddess as well as a mother by the Hindus.


History: Legends say, Long ago a king named Sagar performed the horse sacrifice known as Ashvamedh. One day king’s horse reached the ashram of sage Kapil Muni, in search of the horse seven thousand of the king’s boys also reached there. They thought that Kapil Muni has kidnapped the horse, Kapil Muni cursed them to reduced to ashes. King Sagar became anxious, he sent his grandson Anshuman to Kapil Muni. Anshuman apologized and ask“How can the sin of the king’s boys be destroyed?” Kapil Muni replied “They will be saved if the water of the Ganga will flow over this land.” Finally, Anshuman's son Bhagirath managed to bring down the Ganga on Earth.On the tenth day of the bright half of Jyeshth,Goddess Ganga started to flow from the hair of Shankar.So,Ganga Dussehra is celebrated to worship mother Ganga.

How it is celebrated: In Haridwar grand Aartis are done at twilight and thousands of devotees meditate on riverbanks. Prayag, Haridwar, Varanasi, Rishikesh where Ganga flows, hold special importance on this day. People rush to these places and took a holy bath in it. Significance: On this day people take bath in the holy water of Mother Ganga, it is believed that a bath in the river is said to purify the bather of all sins.

Rathyatra

Rathyatra is a chariot festival held at the famous Jagannath Temple at Puri (Orissa). It is celebrated for 8 days, thousands of devotees rush to Puri during the festival.It is a belief that a glimpse of Lord Jagannath in his chariot provides salvation. The Rathyatra is done in the month of June and July. History: According to the Bhagavad Purana, on this day Balarama asnd Lord Krishna went to Mathura to take part in a wrestling competition, the invitation was given by Kansa.


A legend behind the Rath Yatra says that, the deities are taken to the Gundicha Mandir every year because Lord Jagannatha is said to visit his birthplace every year for a week. Another legend say that, Subhadra wanted to visit her parent's home(Dwarka) and her brothers took her, so the Yatra is done in the memory of that visit. How it is celebrated: On the respective day, people get up early and worship Lord Jagannatha. Beautiful Raths(chariots) are lined up before Puri temple. The deities are brought to their respective chariots with great pomp. The ceremony is done by the King of Puri.The chariot platforms are swept by adherents of the King with a gold-handled broom, they sprinkle the scented water to showcase in the eyes of God that all men are equal.


Images of the Lord of the Universe- Lord Jagannath, brother Balbhadra and sister Subhadra are taken out in a procesion in three Raths, thousands of devotees pull the chariots to Gundicha Mandir and after a week there is a return journey from Gundicha temple on 'Ashadha Sukla Dasami', the 10th day of the bright fortnight of Ashadha.

Significance: The whole Rath Yatra is a symbolic humanization of God. It is an attempt to bring God down to a more human level from his pedestal of glory.

Kharchi Puja

Kharchi Puja comes in the month of June - July, is one of the remarkable festivals of the state of Tripura. Kharchi Puja is also known as Chaudda Devata Puja' or 'Chaturdash. The word Kharchi comprises of two words, Khar means sin and Chi denotes cleaning. Kharchi Puja refers to the cleaning of the sins of the people. It is the worship of the dynasty deity of the people of Tripura, the fourteen gods. History: A cruel king named Tripur ruled Tripura, to get rid of his evils, people worshiped Lord Shiva and offered prayers to him.


Lord Shiva, being pleased killed the king. God Shiva said, the queen would bear a son and he would be the next ruler. The Queen and the subjects were asked to worship 14 gods everyday-Uma (Wife of Lord Siva), Hara (Lord Siva), Prithvi (Goddess of Earth), Hari (Lord bishnu), Bani (Saraswati), Brahma (creator of Universe), Ma (Lakshmi), Ganesh (Siddidata), Ganga (Goddess of Ganges), Kamdev (God of Love and Romance), Agni (God of Fire), Samudra (God of Ocean) and Himalaya (God of all Hills)..During Kharchi puja Goddess 'Burama' is also worshipped.

How it is celebrated: Kharchi Puja falls begins on the eighth day of the moonlit period (Suklastami), it continues for seven days.Thousands of people rush to temple premises where they attend the celebrations. During Kharchi Puja, fourteen gods are worshipped. One of the main ritual is the sacrifice of goats and piegons.

Significance: The Kharchi Puja is performed to clean out the sins, it is done for seven consecutive days to clean up the post menstrual uncleanliness of mother earth's menstruation.

Agni Utsav

Agni Utsav in celebrated in different parts of Orissa, its celebration style varies from district to district. It is celebrated every year in Mid January to Mid February . Every year it's date keeps changing. Agni Utsav is mainly celebrated by the farmers of Orissa.This festival holds its special place among the people of Orissa. People welcome the festival with great enthusiasm and divinity.


How it is celebrated: On this day 'Agni' is worshipped. The rituals related with the festival are considered to be helpful for the farmers of Orissa. Whole family indulges in the preparations . Females start cleaning and decorating their houses. Males collect straws to be burnt the very day. People make huge heaps of hay. Large bundles of straw, heaps and dried grass are burnt. People enjoy with their friends and family.


Significance: Farmers believe that, Agni Utsav helps them to predict the condition of their crops the next year.They burn heaps of straws and direction of the straw while burning predicts the coming year's crop. The predictions are:

* A westward tilt predicts floods.
* Northeast tilt denotes good crops.
* A tilt towards the east resembles entry of saline waters into the fields and high tides.

Ugadi or Yugadi

The word Ugadi or Yugadi means beginning of new era, it is the New Year's Day for the people of the Deccan region of India. Indian calender is based on lunisolar changes and Saka calender commences with Chaitra (March -April), usually Ugadi falls in the month of March and April. This festival denotes the first day of New Year. This festival is celebrated by the people of Maharashtra, Manipur and Sindh.

History: As per the legends, “Yesmin Krishno DivamVyataha, Tasmat eeva pratipannam Kaliyugam”, these are the Sanskrit verses of the great Saint Vedavyasa, according to it, Kali Yuga has begun at the time when Lord Krishna passed away. Most of the historians say, it started from 3102BC. Ugadi, denotes the beginning of New Yuga or Era.



How it is celebrated: On this day, the people get up early and take a head bath. They decorate the entrance of their house with fresh mango leaves and rangoli. People pray for their good health,peace and prosperity. Coconuts and Mango leaves are used for pooja, they splash fresh cow dung water in front of their houses. Later, people gather to listen the recitation of divine and religious Panchangam, almanac, of the New Year.

Significance: Ugadi is regarded as most remarkable day for the commencement of the new projects and ventures. It is celebrated as the First day of the New Year.

Milad-un-Nabi

This festival is also known as Barawafat.On this day Prophet Muhammad was born .Milad-un-Nabi comes in the month of March.This festival originatd in the Fatimid dynasty. 12th Rabi-ul-Awwal of the Islamic lunar calendar year is remembered as the birth anniversary of Prophet . The word barah' in Barawafat denotes the twelve days of Prophet's sickness.


History: In the twelfth century this festival was celebrated by Sunnis. They were under the rule of Nur ad-Din. Some theorists form the view that Sunnis adopted this festival to fight Christian influence in Morroco and Spain. For sometime the celebrations discontinued. In 1207 Muzaffar ad-din brought back the festival and announced it as an official event. As per the legends, when Muhammad took birth in eighth-century in Mecca his mother Harun al-Rashid, Al-Khayzuran changed her house into a place of prayer. In the eleventh century Milad-un-Nabi's first celebrations occurred by Fatimid dynasty in Egypt.


How it is celebrated: A ceremony called called Sandal rite is performed in many parts of the country. In this ceremony the foot prints of Prophet imprinted on stone and the model of animal like horse is worshipped. Footprints are smeared with scented powder . Marsiyas are sung in the remembrance of Muhhammed Prophet. Processions pass through the streets,the day starts with morning prayers in the mosque. Food is arranged for poor. Buildings and Mosques are decorated with colorful streamers.

Significance: This is an important festival of Muslims, it is celebrated to spread and commemorate the teachings of Muhhammed Prophet. It is also celebrated as the birth and death Anniversary of Prophet .On this day the events are remembered which occurred at the time of birth Prophet.

Ram Nanami

Ram Navami the most important festival of Hindus it is celebrated with great enthusiasm and divinity. This popular festival is celebrated on on the ninth day (Navami) of the Chaitra month of Hindu lunar year in 'Shukla paksha' or waxing moon.This festival gets high regards because it is celebrted as the birth day of Lord Rama that is also known as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Ram Navami also marks the end of nine day celebration of Chaitra-Navratri . The festival usually comes in the month of March or April.


History and Legends: Hinduism is the oldest religion of the world and there are so many references found in Kalika Puran in earlier times when there was a prevalence of caste system Ram Navami was the only festival that was celebrated by lower castes (shudras).This divine festival has got its place among five major sacred festivals a way to attain salvation. The legends reagarding Ram Navami can also be traced from pre-christian era.

How it is celebrated: Ram Navami is celebrated as the birth day of Lord Rama people celebrate it with great pomp and diety.People do fasts and this is regarded as the way of attainment of Salvation. Thousands of people come to visit Lord Rama Temple. People worship the idols of Lord Rama and Sita they offer burn dhoop and incense sticks and flowers a thali contain prasad is mainly used for pooja other important items include rice, lota (container filled with water), roli (sacred tilak), earthen lamp and flowers.

Significance: It is a major festival of Vaishnavites, one main element of the celebration is the Ramayana parayana that is a discourse on the Ramayana,done by a professional story-teller or Pundit. It ends up on the ninth day carried on by musical programmes . In Rameshwaram, thousands of devotees take a ritual bath in the sea before worshipping at the Ramanathaswamy temple.

Jwalamukhi Fair

The festival that is dedicated to the Goddess of volcano celebrated with full spirit of divinity .In the Kangra valleys of Himalyas Jwalamukhi is a volcano and the people of hilly areas believe that the inflammable gases from volcano are the sacred fire that comes from the Goddess of the Jwalamukhi volcano that's why the people worship the Goddess with utmost spirit of divinity.The Jwalamukhi Fair is celebrated in the month of April and October.

As per the legends the demons were attacking Himalyas and the Gods led by God Vishnu ordered to destroy them to help the Gods huge flames broke out,these flames gave birth to young girl that is regarded as Adishakti-the first `shakti,Jwalamukhi devi is worshipped by a large number of followers. The temple of Jwalamukhi is regarded as most sacred place in Northern India.

How it is celebrated : People celebrate it with great divinity during the fair the water and milk is offered to the flames following by the puja that goes on for a whole day. To greet and wish mother Goddess Jwalamukhui Devi people bring red silken flags (dhwaja). The flames that are coming from earth spontaneously and perpetually are regarded as blessings of Jwalamukhi devi and the fair is attribute to the worship of these eternal and divine flames.People take holy bath in the springs and goddess is offered the Bhog of Rabri or thickened milk, Misri or candy, seasonal fruits and milk."Durga Saptasati is recited by people.

Significance:The flames the come from the volcano are manifested as Jwalamukhi devi. The temple of Jwalamukhi devi is one of the 51 Shaktipeethas of India.In the temple there is no idol there is a rock in the middle that has a crack and from there the gas is emitted the priest keeps applying the flame to the gas, it is treated as blessing of the diety.

Tirupati Tirumala Brahmotsavam

To fill evryone's spirit with utmost divinity, a festival that comes in the month of September/ October one of the most important among Hindu Festivals it is Tirupati Tirumala Brahmotsavam , as per th beliefs and legends Lord Brahma first performed this festival at Tirupati, this festival is basically devoted to Lord Balaji, this is the most important festival of Andhra Pradesh.


It is also known as the name of 'Tirupati festival' in Andhra Pradesh. Tirupati Tirumala Brahmotsavam ia a nine day festival these nine days are filled with so many different kinds of festivities, every day has got it special significance, in fact it is very unique opportunity for pilgrims to participate with full divinity and enthusiasm and experience the “Vaikuntha Anubhava” .

Tirupati Tirumala Brahmotsavam is performed as a Thanks giving ceremony to God, the word 'Brahmotsavam that means "Brahma's Utsavam" a festival that is all dedicated to Lord Brahma's and pole offer prayers and receive the blessings of Sri Venkateswara Swami, there are long processions and full day celebrations.The festival commences with the hoisting of Garudadhwaja.

As the festival continues for nine days after Garudadhwaja, followed by other ceremonies like Pedda Aadisesha vahanam, Chinna Sesha Vahanam, Hansa vahanam, Simha Vahanam,Muthyala Pallaki Vahanam, Kalpa Vruksha Vahanam, Sarva Bhoopala Vahanam , Garuda Vahanam , Hanumantha Vahanam, Gaja Vahanam, Surya Prabha Vahanam, Chandra Prabha Vahanam, Rathostavam, Aswa Vahanam, Chakra Snanam and on ninth as closing ceremony again there is Dwajaavarohanam.

Thai Pusam

A very unique festival in the chain of festivals is Thai Pusam, it is the festival of Tamil Nadu, as it falls on the full moon in malyalam language it is also called as Thaipooyam or Thaippooyam , Thai Pusam refers to a star , it comes in the month of January or February, the stories behind the festival is that Parvati gave Murugan a spear to conquer the evil demon Soorapadman.


Thai Pusam takes place in the Temples of Mariamman and Kartikeya, the devotees are suppose to walk over the trenches of the burning coal, it is a kind of custom and those people who take part with their full spirit and faith really come out with no harm at all it is unbelievable but true, a dance named Kavadi Attam performed by the devotees, it emphasize debt bondage.


A temple named Periyanayaki dedicated to Muruga forms the place for Ten Day celebration of Thai Pusam, people from very far places come here to celebrate this divine festival, as there is a tradition of walk over on coal so the chief priest of the temple along with the youth mainly they are twelve first of all got out in a procession to take bath, then they smear themselves with turmeric powder and start dancing.

Holding Kavadis on their heads they walk over a pit that is covered with burning coals and surprisingly come out unscathed, other traditions are pips piercing with with a small spear, mouth locking with metal ring, Thai Pusam is celebrated with great spirit of divinity.

Naga Panchami

A festival that comes in the Shravan month, celebrated on the Panchami,a very divine festival of Hindus called Naga Panchami it is celebrated in the most parts of India, this day has got its special significance as people pray Naga Devta also called as Cobras, the snakes are worshipped as Gods, Naga Panchami is celebrated as Lord Krishna defeated the serpent Kalia.


People visit temples and pits of the snakes, as they worship them to seek blessings and happiness for the rest of the life, silver jewellery stuffs and milk is offered to the snakes and cobras to protect them from the evil eyes, people do fast and the people enjoy themselves there is a wave of pleasure and fun every where, in the villages specially swings are put and ladies and girls enjoy with full enthusiasm.


With the divine feeling of respect towards snakes, mainly the Five Nagas worshipped on Naga Panchami they are Vasuki, Karkotaka, Taxak, Ananta and Pingala, this festival comes in the month of August, in Nepal it is known as the festivals of snakes, as people dance on the streets and residents paste the pictures of Naga above the doors as it helps them to keep the evil eye away.

Naga Panchami is a ritual of Indian people as it gives a chance to witness the ancient tradition and to get the blessings for good rain and prosperity of everyone.

Maha Shivratri

A festival that fills you with utmost divinity and makes you blessed by the powers of al-mighty, a wonderful and most awaited festival of India it is Maha Shivratri a very popular festival of India, this Festival is celebrated in the month of February or March every year as per the Hindu calender this festival falls on the 13th night or 14th night in the Krishna Paksha in the month of Maagha.


This festival is basically dedicated to Lord Shiva and grandly celebrated by Hindu community, on this day people people offer Bael or Bilva leaves to please Lord Shiva, Maha Shivratri is the festival that is very sacred and auspicious on this day people observe fast and they keep vigil all the night, there are crowds of thousands of people in the temple of Lord Shiva.

Every one chants the mantras of “OM Namah Shivay” and there is a wave of devotion that spreads everywhere ,Lord Shiva's lingam is offered by water and bael leaves , this festival is celebrated by the people with great divinity as this is the most awaited festival to make Lord Shiva happy and to get his blessings for the entire life, on this day people make traditional Bhaang that is also called “Thandai” .

As per the stories the Thandai is made because Lord Shiva drank the poison to protect human lives. .

Modhera Dance Festival

A very different kind of festival that you have had never heard about yes it is Modhera Dance Festival it takes place every year in the month of January, The Tourism Corporation of Gujarat helds the festival every year this is the festival of dance, fun and frolic, in Gujarat here is a Sun Temple that is basically dedicated to Lord Surya, the beauty and its sculpture makes it incredible its walls has got the figures of Lord Surya, that's makes it so
outstanding.


And this beautiful temple acts as backdrop at the time of Dance Festival as it is a platform of so many Indian classical dances this festival held every year in January and continues for three days, during the festival time there is a wave of enjoyment that drifts every one and it gives a feel of immense pleasure to see this classical art in the lap of beautiful temple's premises.


The reason why the Sun Temple forms a perfect backdrop because here the rays of the sun falls directly they illuminate the deity in the innermost sanctum with the main entrance and really gives a very romantic fete it makes the surroundings so mesmerising when the festival begins.Just imagine the classical dance by performers that is quite enough to catch your hold and make you stand still.

A very unique and popular festival of India, Modhera Dance Festival.

Sonepur Cattle Fair of Bihar

India is a place of varieties of festivals, it has a variety of festivals that bring so much of joy and fun in the lives of the people, another exciting festival is Sonepur Cattle Fair of Bihar, as this festival has got its historic importance also, this is the
festival that is celebrated on the very auspicious day on the full moon day of Hindu Kartik month, the city of Sonepur is located in Northern part of Bihar India.


Sonepur cattle festival is the Asia's largest festival , this festival held on the banks of river ganga, really a very popular festival of India, people take holy dip in the water of the rivers then rush to the temples for darshan as there is very famous temple of Hariharnath people got their in large crowds and they offer sweets and flowers in order to get spiritual blessings from god.

When the mela occurs there is a grand purchasing of animals and cattle's as they are sold and purchased there,this is a cattle fair that invites animals like elephants, horses, cows and camels, there is a wonderful gathering of folk artists as they perform so many cultural activities like dances along with folk music they are the
main attractions of this wonderful fair.

Janmashtami Sri Krishna Jayanti Festival

One of the most important oh Hindus, very divine day that brings them more near to the god is Janmashtami Sri Krishna Jayanti Festival, this day is celebrated as the Birth day of Lord Krishna, whole Hindu fraternity celebrate this day with full joy and divinity, as this popular day falls on the Ashtami of Bhadrapada month of Hindu calendar , really a big celebration in all over India. The festival always falls within mid-August to mid-September .


As per the beliefs, on this day there as an incarnation of lord Vishnu on the earth as he rised to make the people protected from the evils of Kans, as he was known as the cruel King of Mathura. Mother of Lord Krishna was a sister of of Kans, her name was Devaki, as Kans got the news that the eight child of Devaki is going to kill him so he became cautious,cruel Kans killed all the seven children of Devaki.


Krishna’s mother Devaki was sister of Kans. According to history it is said that Kans got news that 8th child of Devaki will kill him. After that he jailed Vasudev (husband of Devaki) and Devaki. He killed all her seven child one by one. On this day their is a beautiful decoration of Krishna Temples with wonderful lights and flowers, large number of people rush to Mathura and Gokul, to b a part of Bhajan Sandhya.

Garden Festival

You must have had heard about so many festivals but here is very different festival that you would be amazed to know is Garden Festival ,just feel the sweet fragrance and colourful bed of flowers around you,an environment that is going to fill you with great joy and fun, such a pleasurable sight , it is a very unique kind of festival that has got sweet fragrance,every year in the month of February Delhi heralds a spectacular flower show.


Pleasure and fragrance every where around, this festival is called Garden Tourism Festival it was introduced in 2004.a wonderful variety of flowers along with exotic plants are placed for a display,there is an exhibition that gives a glance of blossoming flowers and the beautiful gardens that are shining with colour, in Garden festival you will find display of plants,wonderful varieties of flowers and trees, specially designed water gardens with exotic lilies and plants.


It has got a wonderful variety of roses, bonsai, potted plants and dahlias, a wonderful place for forest lovers and those who have interest in horticulture a great plat form for them,their is also a blend of painting competition,art camps specially for budding artists along with cultural shows that are specially take place to entertain visitors, there is a participation of Various Asian countries to
encourage healthy relationship among Asian cities.

In garden festival the flowers are arranged in popular Japanese art a special type of flower arrangement that is Ikebana, along with hanging baskets, fresh plants, accessories with large variety of wonderful stuff, such a wonderful place for fun and frolic for children, here you will be able to come to know about latest
techniques of gardening.

Elephant Festival

Their are some unique and special festivals, they bring more pleasure and fun to our lives, they gives us more chances to smile here is a wonderful festival called elephant festival it is very special and important festival of Rajasthan, it is basically celebrated in Jaipur as it is the capital city of Rajasthan, you will find here a large crowd of people to be a part of this festival.


Elephant Festival is the most popular festival, it is held at Chaugan Stadium where there are a variety of programmes take place like elephant run races, elephant polo matches, and there is music and dance all around, elephants are decorated with wonderful clothes and ornaments, their trunks are painted with different colours, even their forehead, tail and feet are also ornamented.


Elephants are the centre of attraction, the festival commences with a procession of elephants along with horses and camels, accompanied by musicians and dancers, their are special elephant fights at Chaugan Stadium. As this festival is held in the month of March, on the eve of Holi, it is a one day festival, the most attractive thing that interests tourists is an Elephant fight and catwalk.

They really fascinate seeing elephants doing catwalks , that's why this festival is regarded as very unique and special festival of Rajasthan.

Bhai Dooj

Festivals reunite ourselves,as they bring us together and spread the feelings of love in the chain of festivals there is another festival that strengthens the relation of brother and sister, yes the festival is Bhai Dooj, celebration of brother and sister. This festival is celebrated with great joy and happiness in all over India as there is happiness all around.


This festivals falls after two days of Diwali, it denotes the pure relationship between brother and sister, as the name indicates that Bhai as brother and Dooj is as second day of new moon, across the world Hindus celebrate this festival with great fun and bloom, there is a story behind any festival in India as per the legends, the god of death Yama came to visit her sister Yami on this day..

She was so happy and she decorated her house with flowers and light, even she prepared so many special dishes with sweets to greet her brother, as per the custom she put Teeka or Tilak on the forehead of Yama, then in return Yama blessed Yami lifetime security and from that day it became a custom as per the announcement by Yama.

Who so ever is having Tilak on his forehead from her sister would be blessed with long life and all kinds of prosperity. So on Bhai Dooj every sister prays for the long life of her brother, the food is prepared according to the choice of brother, sisters arrange for Aarti, and brothers give them presents and blessings in return.

Narad Jayanti

Well every one knows that about the role of Narad Muni in
communication, he was a pioneer of communication and even we cannot
imagine our lives if there is no communication, it is very crucial for
us, a person would be empty if there is no communication around
him,sharing of thoughts, ideas and information and it is a process
that has been prevailing since ancient times.

Narad Jayanti is an honourable day that comes day after full moon day
in Vaishakh month in the month of April and May,as per the stories
from puranas Narad Muni appeared from the forehead of Lord Brahma but
Vishnu Purana advocates that Narad Muni is the son of Sage
Kashyapa,he is one of the most honourable rishis among seven, even
Narad Muni is one of the prajapatis.


Narad Jayanti is celebrated as the birth day or birth anniversary of
Narad Muni , he is regarded as the beginner of communication as he use
to travel through out the world by singing and communicating, he is
regarded as Sanyasi having a Veena in his hand the stories say that he
often create troubles in very positive way consequently comes out in
the betterment of universe.

Narad Jayanti is also called as ‘Patrakar Diwas' as he forms the
basis of modern day communication and journalism, on this day in North
India seminars, prayers and Intellectual meetings take place, and
journalists follow his ideals for public welfare.

Anant Chaturdasi Vrat

Festivals bring happiness to our lives, life is so incomplete without them as they give us a chance to reunite, they fill us with utmost divinity another most important and divine festival is Anant Chaturdasi Vrat, it falls on the fourteenth day (Chaturdashi) of bright fortnight, it comes in Hindu month Bhadrapadra, as Hindu festivals are very popular all over the world.



Anant Chaturdasi Vrat is actually celebrated on the last day of Ganeshotsav“ or Ganesh Chaturthi, a great Hindu Festival,it fills the people with utmost divinity, the day starts with an assembly of big crowd as they perform prayers, on this divine day the statue of lord Ganesha is brought into water of sea, lakes or rivers.Every where there is singing and dancing and the people gather to give a farewell to the idol of Lord Ganesha and they pray and seek blessings for their wonderful future, they sing together “Ganapathi Bappa Morya, Purchya Varshi Laukariya”.

On Anant Chaturdasi lord Vishnu, goddess yamuna and lord Shesh(Snake) are worshipped, on this people observe fast mainly it is celebrated by Indian women they observe fast on that day, on this day “Gharga”(Made by Floor) is being cooked by them along with Anarse and half of it is given to Brahmin.

On Anant Chaturdasi Vrat with Kumkum Snakes of Grass is prepared with a string of silk, and that thread is tied on the left hand of women and on the right hand of men, it is regarded as sign of bless and prosperity signature of God Anant.

Ekadashi

Ekadashi is also called Agyaars that is the eleventh lunar day, that falls in shukla paksha,Ekadashi takes place every fortnight as per the Hindu panchang calender, the most spiritual and beneficial day for both Hinduism and Jainism, the people observe this day with full divinity, as they observe a fast as the sun sets the day before to Ekadashi it remain upto 48 min as the sunrises, on Ekadashi day.

Ekadashi or Agyaars is followed bimonthly basically it is the festivals of Vaishnavas, well there is no restriction any person can follow this day with full divine spirit,as the fasting is done without taking any kind of grains,it falls mostly when the Moon is the closest to Earth as well as the time when it is farthest from the earth, followed by high tide and low tide respectively.

The names of :Ekadashi are Saphala Ekadashi,Putrada Ekadashi,Sat Tila Ekadashi,Bhaimi Ekadashi ,Vaikunta Ekadasi, Amalaki Ekadashi ,Papamochani Ekadashi,Kamada Ekadashi ,Varuthini Ekadashi,Mohini Ekadashi ,Apara Ekadash,Pandava Ekadashi,Yogini Ekadashi ,Shayani Ekadashi,Kamika Ekadashi ,Pavitropana Ekadashi ,Ananda Ekadashi,Parsva Ekadashi ,Indira Ekadashi ,Padmini Ekadashi ,Parama Ekadashi ,Pasankusha Ekadashi ,Rama Ekadashi ,Prabodhini Ekadashi,Utpanna Ekadashi and Mokshada Ekadashi.

Very divine day that is observed by people with utmost divinity in their hearts.

Buddha Purnima

Buddha Purnima is also called as Vesākha , basically this day is known as "Buddha's Birthday, actually it has got its significance as the enlightenment (Nirvana), birth and passing away (Parinirvana) of Gautama Buddha.This day is followed with great enthusiasm in South East Asian and South Asian like India, Singapore,Thailand, Nepal, Cambodia, Myanmar, Indonesia with utmost divinity.



Buddha Purnima is followed as a traditional holiday , it falls on the day of Purnima or full moon, the date of Vesākha depends upon various lunar calendars as per the different traditions.In Theravada countries they follow the Buddhist calendar, that exactly falls on full moon called as Uposatha day , inn China as per the Chinese lunar calendar it falls on eighth of the fourth month , the can vary from year to year but usually it comes in the month of April or May..

As per the old beliefs the story says when Buddha was dying he saw his very faithful follower Ananda weeping, he advised him not to weep and made him understand that what ever has been created has surely to destroyed, Buddha console every one by saying that they should not cry on the disintegration of his physical body,in fact he said to expand his teachings among people.

They regarded The Dharma as their teacher, as it is the truth that is eternal rest is subject to law of change, as per the teachings of Buddha he didn't want the homage by flowers and offerings, lights,incense all is the need that his teachings should be followed with true heart, people should noble lives, that is the way to reach that eternal god, people should practice love kindness and follow humanity.

Durga Ashtami

Navaratra the nine divine nights, to worship Goddess Durga , to fill yourself with the feel of full divinity and return you are entitles the utmost blessings of Maa Durga, 8th day of Navaratra celebration is called “Durga Ashtami”, the day which is totally dedicated to get the blessings by worshipping Goddess Durga. Special celebrations takes place along with special poojas to please Maa Durga. And to get the power and strength.



As there is a common belief of fasting for nine days, but those people who are not able to do fast for whole nine days can make fast on this day and get the same fruits of all nine days fasting, there is an occasion of grand puja in the temple of Maa Durga. Ashtami puja has its own significance there is a grand level puja, people across the parts come specially to join Durga Puja.

Goddess Durga was the creation of Trinity Lord Vishnu, Lord Mahesh (Shiva) and Lord Brahma, that means Goddess Durga has the power of these three gods , s he sem like a warrior having weapons to kill the devilos and evil around, she is there to uplift and bless who worship her with the whole heart.

According to the stories of Maa Durga, she killed a dangerous demon Mahinsasur , he captured the whole earth and Maa Durga appeared to make the earth free from his cruel and harsh ruling, the belief is that on this day Samundra Manthan was done between demons and god, and Amrit came out from the ocean , as amrit denotes the drink that gives power and immortality.

Pongal

To give another reason of festivity around and another cause to enjoy the life to its fullest yes a four day long festival called pongal, it is celebrated with big enthusiasm and joy. Pongal is much awaited festival of people, it is mainly celebrated by the people of Tamil Nadu" Pongal is also known as the name of "Harvest Festival" in India. It is celebrated from January 13 to 16 every year and it goes on for four days.



Pongal has got it special religious significance, as the four days are very important, most of the urban people celebrate the second day as a main festival. The first day is called as Bhogi on this day people use to clean their houses very properly and in the evening time there is a bonfire where all thew unwanted goods are lit, second day is known as Surya Pongal.

This day begins with the celebrations, it falls on the very first day of Tamil month Thai, Lord Surya is worshipped, the preparations starts before sunrise as the women make Korum patterns on their doorways they are very beautiful, and are made up of with coloured rice flour to welcome Sun, every one feels immense pleasure by wearing new clothes, their is a pplacment of new utensils as well.

The meaning of pongal is overflowing, as there is a tradition of cooking new rice in pots till they over low, it symbolises prosperity, happiness and abundance.A dish called Venpongal is made up from rice, sugar and various sugar that is eaten with the combination of samhar, brinjal, idli, and vadai. Third day is called as Maatu Pongal that is basically for cattle, bulls and cows were decorated in various villages bull fights are occurred, Kaanum Ponga is the fourth day there is a occassion when younger members pay honour and homage to elder ones.

Bandi Festival

Festivals are really important for our lives life is really incomplete without festivals, one of the most famous and wonderful festival of Sikh Community is Bandi Festival This festival is very popular and well known all over the India mainly in Punjab. People welcome it with great enthusiasm and fun as it fills them with new energy and gives them a wonderful reason to celebrate life.

Bandi Festival comes in the month of October and November, very significant festival of Sikh Community. this festival is celebrated on the occasions of the arrival of very famous Sikh Guru to Amritsar, he reached there on the day of the Diwali so this is the another important reason, making Bandi Festival the most important festival of the Sikh Community.



On this day there is great joy every where,in fact it is called Diwali of Sikhs. The day begins with wonderful preparations as the people clean their houses and do so much of decoration like they put flowers and beautiful lights on the houses. There is a wave of happiness and pleasure around.

On this day the people gather and perform so many activities like they celebrate the day with the traditional folk dance Bhangra s every one wants to celebrate this festival with true spirit. People got to the temple and perform long prayers specially to Golden Temple, and pray for the blessings for well being of the family. In the evening time the people use to add more pleasure to this festival by playing with crackers and fireworks.

Guru Purab or Guru Nanak Jayanti

Guru Purab or Guru Nanak Jayanti is a festival that is celebrated wit great enthusiasm specially in North India Punjab and Haryana, this festival is basically followed by Sikh Population, but people through out the India have great belief on it .This day is known as the Birth Day of Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak Dev ji, and one of the most sacredfestival of Sikhs, all the festivities of Sikhs revolve round 10 Sikh Gurus..



The Gurus were the first responsible for shaping and giving new directions to the beliefs of sikhs, there is a spread of divinity everywhere because their birthdays are known as Gurpurabs, a big occasion for celebrations, as their is festivity all around. Founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak Dev ji was the first Guru, he was born on 14 April 1469, in the present Shekhupura District of Pakistan, in Rai-Bhoi-di Talwandi.

Now it is called Nankana Sahib, the birthday falls on Kartik Poornima, that is the day of the full moon, GuruNanak's Birthday usually comes In the month of November. On this day big procession of Guru Granth Sahib is wonderfully decorated with beautiful flowers, large crowd is there to follow the procession with religious songs. This procession is led by Panj Pyaras.

They carry Sikh flag that is called Nishan Sahib along with the palki, there are 'Gatka' teams (martial arts) that shows their amazing swordmanship, with all the devotees that sing the chorus. Their is afree communal lunch called "Langar", the religious societies serve the food and sweets, that is offered to people so many volunteers and people join this to spread the divine feeling of Seva and Bhakti.

Mahaveer Jayanti

Most important festival of India, and very significant festivals of Jains. This festival is celebrated in the month of March and April every year. Lord Mahaveer was born on this day, he was the founder of Jain religion . On this very pure and divine day people go to temple to perform prayers, they worship tirthankars along with their religious Gurus like acharya bhikshu, acharya 108 Sri vardhamansagarji muni maharaj ,mahapragji and , swasti sri charukeerthi bhattaraka swamiji, .



Mahaveer Jayanti is celebrated with full enthusiasm and joy all over the India, people from all parts of the country come and visit Girnar palitana in Gujarat,Parshwnath temple in Calcutta. Lord Mahaveer is the son of Trisala and Siddhartha, his father Siddhartha a king of kundalpur.Queen trishala was known as priyakarni..Their is a story behind as Lord Mahaveera left his palace, parents, friends and money.

He gave up all his wealth and beacame a monk, lord Mahaveer gave up all his wealth to the poor and the needy, ,he sacrificed his life helping those who are in need, he went to Jungle, Lord Mahaveer was very kind and his nature was very simple, his life was very pure and simple, he followed the path of truth and lived his life with full honesty .

Lord Mahaveera has a view people can take their souls and make them more near to the god by practising non violence, Jainism has two sects shvetambaras and the digambaras, further divided into deravasis and sthanakvasis, the Deravasis worship statue of Mahaveer and Sthanakvasis believe on internalisation of the faith.On Mahaveer Jayanti people from Jain community form parties and various type of programs are to be organised by them.

Akshaya Tritiya

Among the Hindus there are "Golden Four Days " who really termed as very auspicious they are Akshaya Tritiya, Vijayadashami, Balipaadyami and Ugadi. THe devotes pray for their good luck and fortune following and observing certain rituals. These festivals give them a chance to get the right energy and power to commence their life with a new spirit. Akshaya Tritiya is termed as very auspicious day for Hindus.



The word Akshaya Tritiya has a meaning Akshaya means something that never diminishes and Tritiya means the third day, the significance is that it falls on the third day of Vaisakha, it is the first month of Hindu Calendar, this day brings the sun and the moon bright simultaneously. Akshaya Tritiya is popularly known by several names as Akshaya Trutheeya, Akshaya Trithi and it is world wide famous as Akha Teej.

This day is so divine and considered as most important day for the beginning of new business etc. This day brings ultimate luck, fortune and prosperity , any one can start any of his activity from this day as this day is considered as very fortunate, Vedic Astrologers form the belief that on this day wedding can be conducted any time and there is no need of any particular Shubh Mahurat .

Akshaya Tritiya is very divine day, the hindus wait for this whole year and they look forward to commence new things from this very day, on this day temples of Char Dham Yatra and Badri Kedar Yatra are opened for devotees, they offer prayers and good luck and blessings for the whole of their life, there are so many reasons that make this day so divine the legends mention that.

Culture, fairs and festivals of India

Fairs and festivals brings new energy and charm in our lives they bring us a reason to smile and celebrate. Festivals are major attractions of the country they reflect the vibrant culture, India is a large country preserving the culture and heritage, it proudly reflects the feeling of togetherness of people through the means of celebrating festivals. Indian tourism industry gives a significant place to fairs and festivals are people from across the globe come and witness its proudly preserved and cared heritage and culture.



Festivals are deep rooted in traditions, myths and religious beliefs. They bring colours to our life. In India every season comes with a gift of festival, as spring season brings Holi and Mewar festival , when the monsoon arrives it brings Teej the most awaited festival of Rajasthan. In south parts Bihu in Assam and Onam in Kerala are celebrated with great enthusiasm in occassion of harvesting season.

There is a chain of festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, Christmas, Durga Puja, Janmastami. There is konark Dance Festival that specifically promotes culture of India. Other popular festivals of India are Ram Nabami and Vasant Panchami, some different festivals like Elephant Festival and Desert Festival.The festival that shows love and affection of brother and sister is Raksha Bandhan. Special and world known festivals of India are Dusssehra and Diwali .

There is a variety of festivals and a large number of fairs occur from time to time, they are world wide people from all parts of world specially plans their vacations to come here and enjoy the warmth of these beautiful festivals.Surajkund Crafts Fair, Pushkar Fair and Urs Ajmer Fair are hot favourites, grand Goa Carnival and Kumbh Mela are most awaited festivals of people.

Baisakhi

With a different accent and flavour, spreads fun everywhere well this is a festival of Baisakhi, that is celebrated all over the India.It comes on the first state of Baisakh, actually this is the time when all the harvest is gathered in and the farmers enjoy the pleasure of their hard work, their is merry making every where, as this fir symbolises coming of prosperity accompanied by dancing and singing every where as everyone enjoys the fruits of his hard work.Punjab's most famous dance is quite enough to add glitters, well this is Giddha and Bhangra.

There are so many fairs that are held near shrines of pirs and tombs, they express the true feelings of Saints, the most important of these fairs is the Jarag fair, Roshni fair of Jagranyan and the Chhapar fair. In northern part Baisakhi indicates the beginning of new year, it comes on the fixed date that is April 13th, in Tamil Nadu it is called as Puthandu. Baisakhi is called as "Vishu". The day starts with the bath and dip in holy rivers, on this day Sun enters Aries it indicates the coming of new year.



Particularly in Punjab farmers start cutting of their harvest as the fields are full of nature and greenery, they dressed themselves in typical Punjabi attire well this is done by both men and women, people made groups and performed Bhangra and Gidda, with fun and frolic around sweets are distributed all the worries put to an end and there is a feeling of joy everywhere.

In 1969 Guru Gobind Singh established the Khalsa Panth , people wait for this festival year long, through this festival they give thanks to Almighty and wish god luck for themselves,on this day delicious meals along with sweets are served to one another. On Baisakhi day, water is collected from all the sacred rivers of India, as it is believed that this water is poured into a big tank that surrounds Golden Temple.

Ambedkar Jayanti

“Father of Indian Constitution”, Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar who dedicated his whole life in providing good living conditions as well as to uplift them those come under deprived section of society. He was born on April 14, 1891 at MHOW (Military Headquarter of War) in Madhya Pradesh, he was a real architect of Indian Constitution, he devoted his whole life to make India Free from the clutches of British, a great social reformer. He was one of the first untouchables to get college education.



He fought to preserve the rights of weaker section of society, Dr. Ambedkar went to England and United states for higher studies, and he came out with degree of law and multiple doctorates for his outstanding research in political science, law and economics, he was a famous scholar, he had been practising law for few years, then he came out with publishing of journals to advocate social freedom and political rights of untouchables and to treat them well.

Dr. Ambedkar raised his voice against Dalit Buddhist movement, as he was the chairman of the drafting committee, he framed our constitution. Dr. Ambedkar was first Law Minister of India. In 1990 he was honoured with Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award. To honour Dr. Ambedkar 14th April his birthday
celebrated as Ambedkar Jayanti all over the India with due respect and honour. It is a public holiday. To honour the great soul huge processions are carried out, followed by so many activities. Various organisations come out with cultural programs and rally.

A very big day for every one, specially Dalit Melas are held , prayers, meetings and memorial speeches also take place.

Kumbh Mela

With a very holy and divine feeling lakhs and lakhs of people take holy bath at Kumbha Mela, Kumbha means pot, this mela is very divine and sacred Hindu pilgrimage, that particularly takes place at four locationsm of India. These four places are Haridwar U.P the place where River Ganga enters from Himalayas, Prayag Allahabad, where the three rivers meet Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati, Nasik in Maharshtra Goadavari river and Ujjain in M.P on the banks of Kshipra river. Every twelve years the pilgrimage occurs four times.



Every twelve years there is a Maha Kumbh held at Prayag that is attended by millions of people, that contributes making it largest pilgrimage all over the world. The beliefs have a story, thousands of years ago demons and gods decided to gather Amrita from the ocean of milk and share it equally. When they got the pot(Kumbh) the demons snatched from the gods and ran away and the gods kept on chasing.

They chased for twelve days and twelve nights equivalent to twelve years, and the battle was fought, during that drops of Amrita fell on four respective places. Thats why the kumbh mela takes place only at these four places. These four places are considered as holy ones and have great significance in Hindu faith. Astrologers are of the view that Kumbh Mela takes place when there are astrological changes as Sun enters Aries and Jupiter enters Aquarius.

People take ritual bath on a particular time and particular place, millions of people come across the world. This happens a great event, huge assembling of people that include discussions, mass feeding of poor and devotional singing. You will find Sadhus, Saints and monks gracing this festival with their presence.

Lohri

Full on fun. full on enjoyment, a perfect reason for happiness around, this festival come as culmination of winter, falls on 13th of January comes in the month Magh or Paush well this is the beginning of Makar Sankranti , the festival of Kites. Lohri is celebrated with great enthusiasm specially it is an important festival of Punjabi's this festival gives them to live the life in a new and positive way. Lohri denotes the spark of life and fertility. Every where is the festivity and fun people dance and gather to celebrate this wonderful occasion.



On Lohri people gather round the bonfires, dance around, throw sweets, popcorn and puffed ice into the flames, wih exchange of greetings and dancing every where. On this very special day children make group an go door to door to gather funds and later on in the evening time there is a community fire with an ultimate mood of festivity and fun. It is a community festival that rejoins people.

Lohri is called as Makar Sankranti, it brings the biting cold to an end, very auspicious day to make people happy and live their life to the fullest. It comes in the Uttarayan, in Bhagwad Gita it is mentioned that this is very sacred month, it is celebrated as Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Bhogi in Andhra Pradesh , Bihu in Assama and Sankranti in Karnataka, the centre of attraction is the bone fire every one just waits for the bonfire to lighten up. Then prasad is put includes , moongphali, gazak, phuliya, til and popcorn, when there is bonfire there is a puja that involves Parikrama.

This Parikrama around the fire symbolises the prayer to Agni for growth in crops and prosperity, a pray for abundant crops.In Punjabi's first Lohri of a bride is extremely special and important even it is as special for a new born baby this festival really excites.

Kerela Village Fair

Festivals gives us a chance of recreation and reunion, we become more energize and happy when it comes to festivals, a very famous festival In India called Kerela Village Fair, mid January brings the time or festivity and cultural events. There is great enthusiasm every where in the lush villages around Kovalam . people are so excited about the happenings around as Kerela Village Fair gives them a big chance to their at their fullest. It is a ten day long festival where all the music, festivities and folk dances take place.



In Kerela Village Fair traditional thatched houses are decorated, Gramam is called as a typical Kerala village. There are amazing traditional Nalukettu houses and you can also enjoy local teashops called 'chayakkada'. In Kerela Village Fair portrays the nostalgic recreation of bygone era that is embedded with ethnic charm. You will find an association artisans, sorcerers along with astrologers they will make you enter in the world Kerela's great past. To display Kerela's antique style an architecture there are amazing and traditional upper class homestead.

Kerela Village Fair gives you the glimpse of ultimate architectural style as there are wealth of antiques inside Nalukettu. You can have look of priceless furniture in Sandalwood, Teak and Mahagony. As well as there is exclusive jewellery , Spice Bowls and so many antiques with beautiful and eye catchy paintings. Various classical dances like Mohiniyattom, Oppana and Kathakali.

Kerela Village fair offers you delecious food like 'Kappa' and 'Meen' (steamed tapioca served with fish curry) or 'Puttu' and 'Kadala. Kamalagramam' are the stalls of artisans to display various handicrafts. Here you will find men working with handlooms and traditional spinning wheels.

Ellora Festival

Festivals brings joy to our lives without them life cannot be imagined they fills us with new energy. Life will loose its meaning if their would be no festivity around really! Festivals rebound us and make us more near to our life. Another synonym of joy and fun none other than Ellora Festival. This is a festival of utmost fun and fills you with immense pleasure. Ellora Festival is a festival of music, dance and fun.

It takes place in vast surroundings of temple of Ellora, has got its very important place as it is about 30 km from Aurangabad in Maharashtra, amazingly there are 34 caves form a cut out of the sloping side of Chamadri hills, formed between 600-1000 AD these caves have got their special importance and this wonderful heritage belongs to Hindu, Jain and Buddhists faiths.




Ellora caves are known for its unique iconography along with different structural compulsions. This heritage is world renowned for its outstanding masterpieces which are formed after 300 years of experimentation, in fact the archaeological Survey has found more 28 caves later. In Kailash Temple the master piece of Ellora is placed which is termed as world's largest monolithic sculpture and interestingly carved out from a rock by 7000 labourers it took around a period of 150 years.

Ellora Festival includes ultimate fun and pleasure, and it has showcased best talents, this festival brings fun and frolic around and really a charming way to feel these amazing and some how mysterious caves, that preserving our culture from centuries. Ellora Festival is organised by Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation a very wonderful platfrom for Indian Artists to perform with their utmost talent of dance and music.

Teej

Festival specially for Indian women, Teej which is celebrated with whole heartily by Hindi women. Teej Takes place on 3rd day of Shukla Paksha in Bhadrapad or Bhado month according to nepali calendar, here in month of August and early September arrival of monsoon. Very important for Indian women as it is celebrated for well being of spouse, husband- marital bliss, purification of soul and progress of children. It is three day long celebration, actually Teej is a very small red insects which usually comes out in rains.



Teej is celebrated with full enthusiasm in all over India, in Jaipur women dressed in green, they hung swings from trees with joy and pleasure all around, they sing songs to welcome monsoon. Beliefs are that this festival is for Goddess Parvati, when she formed her union with Lord Shiva. Teej idol is covered with ornamental fabric, a very pocession is taken out in Jaipur, followed by large masses. In chandigarh there are special arrangements for teej celebrations in rock garden, the females specially daughters and daughter in laws are given new dresses and gifts. So many functions and cultural programs are performed by school children. In Punjab teej is called Teeyan a seasonal festival every where is joy married women visit their parents, and special Punjabi Gidha( a dance) performed by women. In other states like Delhi, Haryana, Bihar, a day before this festival is celebrated as Sijara when ladies, girls put Mehandi, eat feeni, ghewar and other sweets, Goddess Parvati is decorated in a procession followed by women singing, dancing and music. Among Baniya and Marwari Community Teej is an important festival women are given Bindi and Bangles, ladies use to wear new clothes, their is special lunch for women mother in laws use to give jewellery and gifts to daughters in law. Buddhi Teej specially for the daughters-in-law in their marital home it falls after Rakhi.