By Connie Whiting
Holidays & Traditions in India
India, a diverse land of many religions and languages, could be known as the land of festivals because of its many holidays. Further, its caste system also separates people into diverse groups. As a result there are hundreds of holidays and festivals in India, and not all are celebrated in every part of India. Even the uniform holidays are frequently celebrated in different ways depending on regional religious beliefs and traditions.
Diwali
Celebrating Diwali
Diwali, "the renewal of life," is celebrated throughout India. Each area honors its traditional gods. Small oil lamps called "diyas" are lit and placed around the home inside and out. Cities usually use candles instead of the oil lamps and in higher-income neighborhoods, neon lights are used. In addition fireworks are set off, and people exchange gifts of sweets.
Holi Festival
Holi Colors
The Society for the Confluence of Festivals in India states that the Holi festival has ancient origins. Originally called "Holika," the name and the meaning of the festival have evolved over centuries. Today the spring festival celebrates good over evil. Each area of India celebrates in its own way with differing traditions. One tradition that is most recognized is the festival of colors, as markets sell numerous bright hues of dyes. Everyone gathers together in the spirit of fun and brotherhood and throws the colored dyes on each other or some will paint them on instead of throwing. Soon everyone is covered in varying shades. People sing and dance, eat to excess and just enjoy a beautiful day with each other.
Karva Chauth
Mehendi Designs
Karva Chauth is mainly celebrated in Northern India. Women get closer to their in-laws on this Indian holiday. The newlywed women do this by fasting for the day and asking the gods to bless their husband with long life. Women adorn themselves with mehendi (temporary henna) designs on the hands and special bangle bracelets. The fast begins before sunrise and lasts until the moon is seen. Before the moon is seen, a special ritual called a puja is carried out consisting of more rituals, gifts and the reading of a traditional story. The moon is viewed by the fasting women through a sieve. The fast is broken by the husband offering his wife a bit of food and water. The celebration continues with a wonderful dinner attended by the couple and in-laws.
Resources
About the Author:
Connie Whiting has been a professional writer since 1999. She is published in Red Rock Press Anthologies and "Legacy" magazine. She is also an experienced food column writer. Past positions include certified dental assistant and virtual assistant for “Your Invisible Assistant” a service focused on travel arrangements and media writing. Currently, Connie writes for Demand Studios while pursuing an Associate of Arts.
Photo Credits:
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