Indian festivals are a vibrant tapestry of colours, traditions, and cultural celebrations that define the essence of the nation. The festivals hold religious significance, and the religious places are the most visited places in India.
"In the melodies of bhajans and the aroma of festive delicacies, India dances to the tunes of its festivals."
Let us delve into the enchanting world of Indian festivals, where ancient traditions merge with modern celebrations and the country's cultural fabric is woven into a tapestry of revelry and reverence.
Diwali
Diwali is India's most famous and lively festival, whose significance is to mark the triumph of good over evil or light over darkness. Diwali, the festival of lights, is one of the most cherished Indian holidays, celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm throughout the country.
Traditions
Diwali is a five-day festival celebrated with diverse traditions and customs. People decorate their homes and streets with colourful decorations, oil lamps, and rangoli designs made with coloured powders or flowers. The festival is celebrated as a sacred welcome of Goddess Lakshmi. People exchange gifts and sweets with loved ones, engage in prayers and religious rituals, and light up the night sky with vibrant fireworks. Cleaning, decorating homes, and purchasing new clothes is also a tradition which symbolizes a fresh start. Diwali is a time for communities to come together and celebrate, glorifying unity and a sense of togetherness. Ayodhya is the top tourist place in India during Diwali.
People
Diwali is celebrated worldwide among communities like Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists.
It is also celebrated in Nepal, Malaysia and Britain.
1. Nepal
In Nepal, Diwali is known as Tihar, which honours different animals such as dogs, crows, cows and Oxen. Additionally, it highlights the special relationship between siblings who exchange gifts and blessings. Cultural activity in India captivates the true essence of the country, similarly, Nepal has its own traditions and cultural activities for the Diwali celebration.
- Day 1: Kaag Tihar (crow)
People offer grains, seeds, and sweets to Crow or Raven by placing them on rooftops or streets.
- Day 2: Kukur Tihar (dog)
The dogs are given treats and worshipped by placing a tika on their forehead and marigold garlands around their necks.
- Day 3: Gai Tihar and Lakshmi Puja (Cow)
People express gratitude to cows by feeding them treats and worshipping them with tikas and garlands.
- Day 4: Govardhan Puja and Mha Puja (Oxen)
On Tihar's fourth day, oxen are worshipped by feeding and offering them tika and garland.
- Day 5: Bhai Tika
On this day, brothers and sisters celebrate their bond with each other.
2. Malaysia
Diwali is a significant occasion in Malaysia with festivities, fireworks, and prayers. It is a national holiday, and people wear new clothes, visit temples to light oil lamps, and make offerings to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
3. Britain
Diwali is a vibrant and multicultural celebration in Britain that unites people of diverse faiths and backgrounds. Many cities in the UK hold amazing events, including light shows, parades, dances, and music performances.
Food
Food plays a vital role in Diwali celebrations, with a wide array of delicious delicacies prepared and shared. Sweets and snacks take centre stage during this festive season. A few best Indian dishes are prepared on Diwali.
- The traditional sweets and savouries are:
- Ladoos (sweet balls made of flour, sugar, and ghee)
- Barfis (dense milk-based fudge)
- Gulab jamuns (deep-fried milk-based dumplings soaked in sugar syrup)
- Jalebis (deep-fried pretzel-shaped sweets)
- Samosas (triangular pastries filled with spiced potatoes or meat)
- Pakoras (deep-fried fritters made with vegetables or lentils)
- Murukku (crispy rice and lentil snacks).
These delectable treats are shared with family, friends, and neighbours as a symbol of goodwill and togetherness, adding an extra touch of sweetness to the festive atmosphere of Diwali. Visit India to celebrate the amazing festival; apply for an India visa via Insta Global visa and have an incredible cultural experience.
Christmas
Christmas is a widely celebrated festival and is joyously observed in the major cities in India like Mumbai, Goa and Delhi, with colourful decorations, joyful carols, and the exchange of gifts, creating a festive atmosphere across the country. Indians celebrate Christmas with a lot of enthusiasm; the festive spirit comes alive with family get together and huge Christmas feasts. Goa is the best place to visit in India during Christmas.
Traditions
People of different communities have different rituals on Christmas, like in:
- South India: people place a blazing earthen lamp on their roofs, representing that Jesus is the world's light.
- Northwest India: Christians tell Christmas tales and chant melodies.
- Southwest India: people begin fasting from December 1 until midnight of December 24.
Some common traditions and cultural activities in India followed during Christmas are:
- Christmas tree decorations, the trees are adorned with ornaments, lights and tinsel. Traditional motifs like bells, stars and flowers are hung on the tree.
- Families and friends exchange presents to symbolize love, goodwill and joy.
- Children eagerly wait for the arrival of Santa Clause, who is believed to bring gifts and sweets.
People
Christmas is a major Indian holiday, reflecting the nation's diverse cultural and religious fabric. In India, Christmas is not only celebrated by the Christian community, but the festive spirit transcends religious boundaries, and people from different communities actively participate and celebrate Christmas. The communities in India celebrating Christmas are:
- Christian Community:
The Christian community in India commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ with religious services, carol singing, and Nativity plays.
- Anglo-Indian Community:
The Anglo-Indian community, with its unique blend of Indian and British heritage, celebrates Christmas by following age-old traditions such as making Christmas puddings, fruitcakes, and elaborate Christmas dinners. Immersing yourself in age old-traditions is the best thing to do at Christmas.
- Goan Community:
Christmas is a grand affair for the Goan community in India. Goa, a former Portuguese colony, showcases a vibrant fusion of Indian and Portuguese traditions during Christmas. The Midnight Mass, known as 'Missa de Galo', is a significant event.
- Northeastern Communities:
Various communities from the northeastern states of India, such as the Khasis, Nagas, and Mizos, celebrate Christmas with their unique customs. The northeast region has a substantial Christian population, and community gatherings, carol singing, and cultural performances mark the festivities.
- Metropolitan Cities:
Metropolitan cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Chennai have multicultural societies where people from different backgrounds join in the Christmas celebrations. Visiting Shopping malls, streets, and public spaces during Christmas is a fantastic thing to do on Christmas as they are adorned with lights and decorations, creating a festive ambience.
- Schools and Educational Institutions:
Many schools and educational institutions in India celebrate Christmas as a cultural festival. Students from various religious backgrounds participate in Christmas plays, skits, and musical performances. This inclusive approach promotes interfaith harmony and encourages children to learn about different cultures and traditions.
Read More: India's Ayurvedic Wellness Retreats
Food
"Christmas in India is a melting pot of traditions and festive delights."
Best Indian dishes, as well as different cuisines, are feasted upon while Christmas celebration. Delve into the delectable array of festive food tantalizing the taste buds. Food traditions on Christmas in India are a delightful blend of global influences and local flavours. The traditional Western dishes are enjoyed, with the unique touch of regional Indian cuisine. Christmas feasts include a variety of dishes such as:
- Plum cake
- Kulkuls
- Christmas puddings
- Biryani
- Roast meats
- Dodol
Holi
Holi is a festival of laughter, love and colours. Embracing the magic of Holi is one of the best things to do in India. It marks the arrival of spring and is observed with great enthusiasm and excitement throughout the country.
Traditions
- One of the most prominent traditions of Holi is the playing of colours, where people smear each other with coloured powders and sprays. Smearing colour symbolizes joy and happiness; it blurs the lines of social hierarchy and status. Different cultural activities in India have their artistic value and symbolic meaning.
- On the eve of Holi bonfire is lit, known as Holika Dahan; the ritual symbolizes the burning of evil and negativity and the triumph of righteousness and truth.
- Holi is incomplete without music and dance; people sing traditional Holi songs known as "Holi ke geet" and perform joyful dances. Folk dances like the "Dhamaal" and "Raslila" are popular during Holi celebrations.
People
Barsana is the best place to visit in India to enjoy the festival of Holi. Holi, the Festival of Colors, has gained popularity and is celebrated in various parts of the world, transcending cultural boundaries. Holi is celebrated across different countries:
1. Australia:
Holi has found its place in Australia, where it is celebrated with enthusiasm, particularly in cities like Sydney and Melbourne. Colourful Holi events are organized, offering a mix of Indian music, dance performances, and the signature throwing of non-toxic coloured powders.
2. United Kingdom:
Holi celebrations are a prominent event in the United Kingdom, especially in cities with a significant Indian population, such as London, Birmingham, and Manchester. People from diverse backgrounds come together to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, dance to Bollywood music and play with coloured powders. Enjoying Holi with family and friends is the most amazing thing to do on Holi.
3. Nepal:
The Holi festival celebration in Nepal is known as "Fagu Purnima" or "Holi Purnima." The streets of Kathmandu come alive with vibrant colours, and people gather to participate in the festivities.
4. United States of America and Canada:
Holi has gained significant popularity in the United States and Canada, particularly among the Indian and other communities interested in cultural diversity. Colourful events and Holi festivals are organized in various cities, featuring traditional music, dance performances, and the playful throwing of coloured powders.
Food
Holi is a time for indulging in traditional delicacies and a few best Indian dishes. The festival is a time for families and friends to come together and relish these mouthwatering treats, adding a delectable touch to the festive celebrations. Here are some of the famous traditional foods enjoyed during Holi:
- Gujiya
- Puran Poli
- Thandai
- Malpua
- Papri Chaat
Janmashtami
Janmashtami is a day to celebrate the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu. The festival fosters a sense of unity, devotion, and spiritual connection, allowing individuals to experience the divine presence of Lord Krishna in their hearts. Get your India visa via Insta Global Visa to experience the festival of Janmashtami.
Traditions
Devotees eagerly await this auspicious occasion, engaging in various customs and rituals to commemorate the birth of the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu. The atmosphere is filled with devotion and enthusiasm as people fast, chant devotional songs, and offer prayers to Lord Krishna. At midnight, during the divine moment of Lord Krishna's birth, temples and homes come alive with festivities. Janmashtami serves as a reminder of Lord Krishna's eternal teachings, inspiring devotees to lead a righteous and joyful life. Participating in the religious celebration of Lord Krishna's birthday is one of the best things to do in India.
People
Janmashtami, the auspicious celebration of Lord Krishna's birth, resonates with devotees worldwide. Janmashtami is celebrated with zeal, not only in India but also in the USA, Nepal, Canada, Singapore, Malaysia and France. The ceremonies and traditions followed by devotees on Janmashtami are common worldwide.
- Temples and cultural centres organize Janmashtami events, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of India's festivities. Fasting, praying, and singing devotional songs to honour Lord Krishna are fantastic things to do on Janmashtami.
- Traditional bhajans, kirtans, and mesmerizing performances recount the tales of Lord Krishna's divine play and inspire deep devotion.
- Dahi Handi ceremonies, where enthusiasts form human pyramids to smash an earthen pot filled with curd, symbolize Lord Krishna's mischievous nature and attract enthusiastic participation. The celebration fosters a sense of unity and community as devotees come together to seek blessings and share in the joyous spirit of Lord Krishna's birth.
- Devotees participate in soul-stirring bhajans and kirtans, immersing themselves in the divine melodies. Lord Krishna's temples are the most visited place in India during Janmashtami.
- At midnight stroke, the baby idol of Lord Krishna is given a ceremonious bath with Gangajal (pure water of River Ganga), which is specially transported from India for the festival.
- After worshipping the deity, people relish lip-smacking delicacies that are prepared as prasad.
Food
"Savouring on divine delights of Janmashtami."
Janmashtami presents a wide array of traditional and flavorful dishes with special significance. Some of the best Indian dishes are made on Janmashtami. Let's embark on a journey to explore the divine delights of Janmashtami cuisine.
- Makhan Mishti
- Poha and Kheer
- Makhane ki Sabzi
- Panjiri
- Chappan Bhog (56 varieties of food)
- Sweets and Delicacies
"In the mosaic of Indian festivals, we discover the beauty of unity amidst diversity."
Indian festivals showcase the richness and diversity of the country's culture. The celebrations serve as a platform for fostering unity, spreading love, and strengthening communal bonds. They offer a glimpse into India's deep-rooted heritage, spiritual beliefs, and vibrant customs.
