Festivals Of

INDIA
 Types of
Festivals
National Religious Harvest
Festival Festival Festival
National Festivals

Republic Independence Gandhi

Day Day Jayanti
Independence Day
India became independent on
15th August, 1947.
The day is celebrated annually with great fervor across the nation,
symbolizing not just political freedom but also the aspirations of a diverse
populace for self-governance, equality, and economic prosperity.
Independence Day ceremonies typically include flag hoisting, patriotic
songs, and speeches that reflect on India's journey towards sovereignty
and the challenges overcome in shaping its democratic identity. It serves
as a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless freedom fighters and
the enduring spirit of unity that binds India as a nation.
Republic Day
India became a democratic
republic on 26 January,
1950. we celebrate it as
Republic Day.
Gandhi Jayanti
Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi is
better known as Mahatma Gandhi.

He said "Be the change,

you want to see in the world"

He is also known as the

Father Of The Nation.
Religious Festivals
India is renowned for its diverse religious festivals, each offering a vibrant
tapestry of culture, faith, and celebration. From Diwali, the Festival of Lights
symbolizing the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, to Eid al-
Fitr and Eid al-Adha, marking the culmination of Ramadan with prayers and
feasts, religious festivals in India are a reflection of the country's pluralistic
society. Holi, the colorful spring festival, brings together people of all
backgrounds to celebrate the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over
evil with bonfires and colorful powders.

Navaratri, dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga, is observed with

elaborate rituals and dances across nine nights. These festivals not only
uphold religious traditions but also foster unity and harmony among India's
diverse communities, making them integral to the country's cultural
tapestry.
 Diwali
About Diwali Festival of Light
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of India's most Families gather to perform Lakshmi Puja, seeking
significant festivals celebrated by Hindus across the blessings from the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
world. It symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness Fireworks light up the night sky, adding to the
and good over evil. The festival typically lasts five spectacle and joyous mood. Diwali is also a time for
days, with each day holding its own significance. exchanging sweets and gifts, strengthening bonds with
Homes and streets are adorned with colorful rangoli loved ones. Beyond its religious importance, Diwali
designs, clay lamps (diyas), and candles, illuminating transcends cultural and regional boundaries,
the surroundings and creating a festive atmosphere. embodying the spirit of hope, renewal, and the victory
of righteousness.
 Guruparabs
Guruparabs, also known as Gurpurabs, are significant religious festivals in
Sikhism, celebrated to commemorate the birth anniversaries of the ten
Sikh Gurus The most prominent Guruparabs are those of Guru Nanak Dev
Ji, the founder of Sikhism, and Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Guru.
Celebrations typically begin with early morning processions called "Prabhat
Pheris," where devotees sing hymns and walk through the streets,
spreading the teachings of the Gurus. This is followed by a continuous
reading of the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism, known as
"Akhand Path," which lasts for 48 hours. On the main day, Gurdwaras (Sikh
temples) are beautifully decorated and filled with devotees who gather for
special prayer sessions and Kirtans, the singing of devotional hymns.
Langar, a community kitchen serving free meals to all visitors regardless of
their background, is an integral part of the celebrations, embodying the
Sikh principles of equality and selfless service.

These days are known as Guruparabs.

 Buddha Purnima
The birthday of Buddhism, Lord Gautama People offer special prayers and exchange
Buddha, is celebrated as Buddha Purnima. greetings on this day.
 Christmas
Christmas in India is a vibrant and diverse celebration that reflects the
country's rich cultural mosaic. Although Christians make up a small percentage
of India's population, the festive spirit of Christmas transcends religious
boundaries, with people from various communities participating in the joyous
occasion. In cities and towns across the country, churches are beautifully
decorated with lights, stars, and nativity scenes. Midnight Mass is a significant
event, drawing large congregations who come together to celebrate the birth
of Jesus Christ with hymns, prayers, and readings from the Bible.

Homes and streets are adorned with colorful lights, Christmas trees, and
festive decorations, creating a cheerful atmosphere. In Goa, Kerala, and other
regions with substantial Christian populations, traditional sweets and delicacies
like plum cake, kalkals, and rose cookies are prepared and shared among
friends and family.
Id-ul-Fitr
Also known as Eid al-Fitr
Significant Islamic festival marking the end of
Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. Celebrated with
great enthusiasm, the day begins with a special prayer,
Salat al-Eid, performed in congregation at mosques
and open grounds. Muslims wear new clothes,
exchange greetings of "Eid Mubarak," and visit friends
and family to share festive meals and sweets, such as
dates and traditional desserts like Seviyan.
Harvest Festivals
Harvest festivals in India are vibrant and joyous celebrations
that reflect the agricultural roots and cultural diversity of the
country. Each region has its unique way of honoring the
harvest, with festivals such as Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Makar
Sankranti in the northern and western states, Baisakhi in
Punjab, Onam in Kerala, and Bihu in Assam. These festivals
mark the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the
new agricultural cycle. They are characterized by various
traditional activities including colorful dances, folk songs, and
elaborate feasts. Families come together to prepare special
dishes using freshly harvested crops, and homes are
decorated with rangoli and flowers.
 Pongal
Pongal, also known as Thai Pongal, is a several-day Hindu harvest
festival that Tamil people in India and Sri Lanka celebrate.
The three days of the Pongal celebration are known by the titles Bhogi
Pongal, Surya Pongal, and Mattu Pongal. Some Tamils celebrate Kanum
Pongal on the fourth day of Pongal.
 Bihu
Bihu is the harvest
festival of Assam.

Special Bihu dances are

performed across the state.
 Onam
Onam marks the
celebration of season
in Kerala.

Special dishes are

prepared and served
on banana leaves.
Thank
you!