Kurukshetra Festival

Introduction:

The festival in Kurukshetra, Haryana coincides with the Gita Jayanti, signifying the birth of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita. A visit to Kurukshetra during the festival is an exhilarating and spiritual experience.


Bhagavat Gita, the holy book of the Hindus comprises the basic truths and declares that whatever way of life, whatever mode of worship man has and shall adopt, so long as it is guided by an earnest desire for betterment, they are to be deemed worthy of recognition and respect. 

Kurukshetra


Kurukshetra is the ancient holy land where the essence of Hinduism originated. The city is spread to an area of 48 kosas in northwest of Delhi, covering about 360 sacred places associated with Mahabharata.


It is also the land where the sage Manu penned his 'Manusmriti' and where learned 'rishis' compiled the Rig Veda and Sama Veda. It has been graced with the visits of Lord Krishna, the Buddha and the Sikh gurus.


Kurukshetra is named after the great sage king Kuru so also named as the land of a Kuru (progenitor of Pandavas and the Kauravas). The place was the site of the great battle of Mahabharata.


The great dialogue between Lord Krishna and Arjuna during the famous battle of Mhahabharta, later took the form of Bhagavat Gita, the holy book of the Hindus so the place also owns the honor for the origin of the sanctified Bhagavat Gita.

Lavi Fair

The Lavi fair is held in Rampur, Himachal Pradesh. Lavi fair largely popular for the trade and exhibition of special goods and products is held in great esteem and is celebrated with much fanfare. Rampur accompanied by river Satluj has been a major trading route for India. The town has maintained this age-old tradition and has been hosting the International Lavi Fair for more than 300 years.

Years back, Rampur was the entering gate to routes towards Kinnaur, Tibet, Ladakh and Afghanistan. Even till date, many goods like wool, dry fruits and other products are bought and sold through this trading destination. After the trade came to a standstill few years back, it lost its glory which was again restored after the Lavi fair started here.

The status of Lavi fair has reached to an international level and numerous efforts are made by government to restore the popularity and status of lavi fair. Over the past few years, the government is making efforts to modernize the activities at fair. Many traders from all parts of country come here during the month of November to lure customers and popularize their art and craft.

Historical traces:

Although a talk of past now, earlier some famous Chinese goods were also bought in here to be sold for example jackets, crockery etc.

Lavi fair is also mentioned in the history of erstwhile Bushair State. According to some historical evidences, a trade treaty was signed between the Bushair state and Tibet, during the reign of Raja Kesar Singh. Swords and horses were also exchanged between the two as a mark of friendship. At that time the trade relationship was very strong and it was promised that the relation would remain so for ages. But, after the occupation of Tibet by China, all trade between the two came to a standstill.

Celebrations:

Lavi fair attracts large number of people every year during the month of November. Numbers of shops are established and goods are sold.

There is an age old tradition of churning the water of River Satluj before the commencement of Fair. Any act of barter, exchange, selling is preceded only after the water is properly churned.

A lot of trading activity is carried on. However there are several customs that are followed to this day before the commencement of the business.

One the major attraction of the fair is the display and sale of wide variety of native products. Himachal Pradesh is famous for its “Pashmina” wool, some kinds of Dry fruits and other agricultural products. Also, not to forget surefooted 'Chaumkhi' horses, especially found in the nearby tribal areas are bought in here at the fair to be sold.

Apart from the Horses, woolen pattoos, kala zira and dry fruits are also brought and sold in the Lavi Fair at Himachal Pradesh. The Lavi Fair in Himachal Pradesh is renowned for its excellence in bringing to the forefront the ancient Indian Culture.

Time of celebration:

The Lavi fair celebrated in Rampur, Himachal Pradesh is held every year in the month of November. Number of tourists and traders gather here during the time. This year the Lavi fair is to be organised between 11th to 14th November. 

Majuli Festival

Majuli Festival held in Assam is a perfect blend of spiritual and adventure extravaganza. Numerous activities right from cultural programs, sports, seminars on spiritual topics, exhibitions are organized all through the four day Festival. The Festival is organized on the banks of river Luit in Garamur.

The Majuli Festival is a perfect reflection of the state of art and culture in the state of Assam, especially Majuli. The beauty of the region and the richness of the culture are captured in the single festival of Majuli.

Apart from the cultural programs, exhibition and food festival, there are numerous elaborate arrangements made by the government for sight seeing of nearby places. Migratory birds are observed around the region during the time of Majuli Festival.

Majuli:

A beautiful island in Assam, Majuli offers amazing blend of flora and fauna clubbed with great scenaric beauty which makes it a perfect destination to unwind. Majuli is known for its spiritual richness with numerous monasteries situated here. Lord Krishna is supposed to have played here, which makes it extremely sacred. It claims to be the largest river island in the world.

Celebrations:

Throughout the festival numerous cultural programs are organized and troops from across Assam and India participate in them. Also, a very important part of festivities remain the preparation of some exquisite variety of food dishes. Assamese and tribal dishes of Majuli are also available and food festival is also organized during this period.

During Majuli festival grand sale cum exhibitions are arranged where wide range of items including tribal garment and handicrafts, traditional pottery items, valuable items made of bamboo and cane are being displayed for sale.

How to reach:

Majuli is a beautiful island in Assam and whatever means of transport one takes, the ride of water boats is a must to reach the final destination.

By Air:

The closest airport is also at Jorhat. There are daily flights to Jorhat from Guwahati, and four flights a week from Kolkata.

By Rail:

The nearest train station is at Jorhat.

By road:

Jorhat is connected by road to Guwahati. ASTC and private-run buses leave early in the morning and in the evening. From Jorhat it is only 14 km to Neamati Ghat. You can take a bus or an auto.

By Water:

There are regular government ferry services to Majuli every morning and afternoon from Neamati Ghat. Motorised private boats also carry passengers across.

Time of celebration:

The Majuli Festival is celebrated every year in the month of November. 

Turkish Dance Night

Very Special Dance show in a very special place. A journey through turkish dances. Entertaining and breathtaking cultural experience.

 

Belly Dance, 

Traditional folk dance, 

Modern folk dance, 

Ritm show,

Live Music.

  

About Turkish Dance Night

 

In addition to Whirling Dervishes Ceremony at Hodjapasha Culture Center we have started to present a dance show called Turkish Dance Night on a regular basis 3 days a week . This show is performed by Hamam Dance Troupe which consists of 25 experienced dancers and musicians.

Culture Center is a part of 550-year old Turkish Bath called  Hocapaşa Bath which is today used as a market. 

Dances from different regions of Anatolia are performed as well as group and solo oriental dances  with modern choreography in the collages, with specially designed costumes and accompanied by live music.

In addition, an exhibition in the foyer area which describes The History of Dance Culture in Turkey starting from 10.000 years back to today with graphics , pictures and video support can be seen .
  
Turkish Dance

In the Ottoman era and in Turkey today, dancing traditions in Anatolia are different than dancing traditions in Istanbul and other big cities. In Anatolian villages and towns, against the religious and social restrictions of imparial city, women and men used to sing, dance and have fun together. Dances performed during these entertainments are usually rituals with themes of their own. The reason for the organization of entertainment such as weddings, grape harvest festivities and celebrations would determine the dances to be performed and the dances would differ according to wheter they were performed only by men or women or both men and women together In the Ottoman Empire and in modern Turkey today, every area, every city and village has its own traditional folkloric costumes and dances. These rich and traditional entertainment forms are still held in high regard and enjoyed today. With more than 4000 types of traditional folkloric dances identified by folklore researchers in rural areas and villages, Turkey has one of the richest folkloric dance heritages today. Anatolia is the melting pot of many civilizations where this great traditional heritage is kept alive.  

It is known today that belly dancing originated from ancient Egypt and India. The main theme of this dance is human nature and sexuality. Belly dancers in revealing, erotic costumes would roll their bellies, rhythmically circle their hips and waist, move their hands gracefully up and down like a snake and bat their eyes at the audience, accompanied by old Turkish style köçek music. This dancing style was strictly aimed at man and it had many erotic associations, therefore belly dancers would often dance for men in taverns, saloons and drinking houses.

While belly dancing was  confined to desolate back  door venues during the Ottoman period, after the declaration of Republic women and  families were allowed to participate in social life and belly dancers began performing in legal public venues, taverns and nightclubs. Belly dancers were always popular after 1920’s.  Just like prominent singers, they would take to the stage as the final act and the audience would patiently wait for them to appear. Turkish belly dancers are also known as “Turkish delights” on account of their beauty, plumpness and agilityToday, belly dancing is an art form loved by everyone and enjoyed by families.  World renowned, beautiful and agile belly dancers keep entertaining audiences in night clubs, famous music halls and venues.
Oriental dance training is improving today. Auditions for young and talented people are being organized and those who are chosen are given training in thematic dancing. Dancing troupes like “Fire of Anatolia” present great productions of traditional folkloric dance and oriental dance rhytms choreography. These musical and dance productions tour the world.
  
Booking and Pricing

Performance is  in two parts and takes 1 hour total. as regularly every Tuesday and Thursday at 20:00and 21:00 at Saturdays.


Ticket price: 25 EURO Including complimentary refreshments served during 15 minutes break time..

 

Chennai Dance and Music Festival

Chennai music and dance festival is a celebration of classical music and dance of South India (Carnatic Music) held during mid December to mid January in the capital city of Chennai. The festival is held at a number of venues around the city by various sabhas or organizations.

Chennai music and dance festival is a celebration of classical music and dance of South India held during mid December to mid January in the capital city of Chennai. The festival is held at a number of venues around the city by various 'sabhas' or organizations. Besides the auditoriums, well-known temple premises and heritage bungalows are being used as venues. The month long dance and music extravaganza will have performances of famous artistes from various parts of India.

The 'Margazhi festival of dance and music' started early back in 1927, to commemorate the anniversary of Madras Music Academy every December, was later adopted by various organizations which held art festivals in different parts of the city. The Tamil month of 'Margazhi' is a sacred month of the Hindus. South Indian classical music (Carnatic Music), which has its roots in devotion to the gods, has been a traditional form of worship from time immemorial.

The city comes alive with the festival, which has now developed, into a cultural extravaganza with more than 2000 participants in over 300 concerts. The festival also known as December Season also attracts expatriate Indians and scholars from around the world.

Performances include Vocal and Instrumental music, Dance - solo and group, both by junior and senior artistes. Even upcoming artists get a chance to perform along with well-established artists. The music includes songs in various South Indian languages like Tamil, Telugu and Kannada and instruments like Flute, 'Veena' (a large string instrument) 'Goottuvadyam' (similar to Veena but without frets), 'Nagaswaram' (pipe), 'Thavil' (percussion instrument), 'Mridangam' (drum), and even 'Ghatam' (a mud pot). The season goes on till mid January when the scene shifts to Tiruvaiyaru to celebrate the birth of one of the greatest Carnatic composers and one of the trinity of music - Thyagaraja. Information about. The 'Margazhi festival of dance and music' started early back in 1927; to commemorate the anniversary of Madras Music Academy every December was later adopted by various organizations, which held art festivals in different parts of the city.

The city comes alive with the festival, which has now developed, into a cultural extravaganza with more than 2000 participants. Performances include Vocal and Instrumental music, Dance - solo and group, both by junior and senior artistes.

Even upcoming artists get a chance to perform along with well-established artists. 

The music includes songs in various South Indian languages like Tamil, Telugu and Kannada and instruments like Flute, 'Veena' (a large string instrument) 'Goottuvadyam' (similar to Veena but without frets), 'Nagaswaram' (pipe), 'Thavil' (percussion instrument), 'Mridangam' (drum), and even 'Ghatam' (a mud pot). Information about the tickets and the venues can be had from the tourist office, Chennai.

   

Parumala Perunnal

Parumala Perunnal is an extremely popular festival of Kerala. The festival is celebrated at the Parumala St. Peter's & St. Paul's Orthodox Church, Parumala, Thiruvalla, Pathanamthitta, which is a highly convenient place for the tourists and visitors to reach and participate in the celebrations.

The Festival of Parumala Perunnal is basically an annual feast that is arranged as a compulsion in order to commemorate the death anniversary of Bishop Mar Gregorios Metropolitan, the declared saint of the Malankara Orthodox Church of Kerala. During the auspicious occasion a grand feast is organized and rituals are performed.

A major attraction of the Festival remains the Grand procession that travels from one part of the town to another. It is attended by thousands of devotees. Devotees also offer prayers for seeking blessings from the deity.

Most of the festivals celebrated in Kerala are known for their splendor and grandeur. Apart from the prayers and rituals numerous stalls are arranged throughout the grounds of the church, selling articles, food, utensils and jewellary.

Kerala also known as “God’s own country” is acknowledged for its culture and traditions. During the celebrations of Perunnal Festival life and routines come to a standstill in the state as all localites engage in festive preparations. The jubilations during this time are a true eye-candy for spectators.

How to Reach?

• Nearest railway station: Thiruvalla, about 11 km away.
• Nearest airports: Cochin International Airport, about 105 km from Thiruvall

Nongkrem dance Festival

The Nongkrem dance Festival is an extremely popular religious festival celebrated in the state of Meghalaya located in the North eastern zone of India. The festival is generally celebrated in the month of November. It lasts for about five days during the autumn season amidst chilling winters. It is the most popular festival for the inhabitants of Khasi hills. It can be termed as a grand carnival that involves flow of wealth, sacrifice of animals and an environment of religious fervor.

The venue of festival celebration is fixed since years and that is Smit, the cultural centre of the Khasi Hills in Meghalaya, India is about 11km from Shillong. This festival was initially named Ka Pemblang Nongrem, which over the years has been popularly termed as Nongkrem dance Festival.

Meghalaya celebrates many fairs and festivals most of which are dedicated to appease the all powerful Goddess Ka Blei Synshar for a rich bumper harvest and prosperity of the people.

The most important part of Nongkrem dance Festival is the ritual of Pemblang ceremony, which is performed by the Syiem of Khyrim along with the high priest. It refers to the sacrifice of an animal. The priest then offers an oblation to Lei Shyllong; the god of Shyllong peak by sacrificing a cock. The offerings are made to the ancestors of the ruling clan.

Apart from the religious practices there are a number of cultural programs and events that are organized. Normally, young and unmarried girls participate in them. During the cultural programs girls can be seen wearing colorful and beautiful outfits. Not only girls but men also participate in the cultural events. The dances performed by men are more energetic. They hold a sword in their right hand and usually a white Yak hair whisk in their left hand, keeping time to the changing beats of drums and playing of the tangmuri or pipes.

Smit

Distance: 11 kms

How to Reach: By Bus and by taxi
Smit is known as the Khasi culture center. Smit lies on NH 44, 4 kms off the Jowai road from Shillong.

Mondei Festival

The festival of Mondei is an extremely popular Festival celebrated in the Nabarangpur District Orissa. The celebrationderived from the Hindi word “Mondi” that means a small market place. of the festival can well be understood from its nomenclature as the name Mondei is

Mondei Festival witnesses a large congregation of devotees from all over India, who worship a common deity. This offering of prayers to deity is done amidst traditional rituals and customs. The festival celebrations are accompanied with a fair organized by the localites. Apart from the traditional rituals and customs there are Dance and Music performances that are held every year.

An attractive feature of the Festive celebrations involves tribal opera that extends throughout the night. The time of celebrations is generally after harvest in the month of November.

The festival is celebrated at different locations within the district wherein men and women fro nearby places gather to participate. Traditionally a district level program presently it attracts tourists from national level. Various programs are organized to suit all classes of audiences.

Various activities like Rural Sporting, MountainTrekking, Kavi- Sammelan, Crafts Mela, Artist Camps, Pallishree Mela, Development Exhibition, Open Quiz, Folk Dances of all over India are organized. Colorful processions keep the festive spirit lively.

Beach Festival

Puri Beach Festival is celebrated every year in the month of November at Puri, Orissa. This beach Festival has gained enough popularity in the recent years as tourists from all over India gather here during the Festival. This is a perfect opportunity for the visitors to interact with the local people and understand their culture.

There are many attractive and entertaining events organized here for the visitors. Fashion shows, exhibitions, cultural programs, delicious cuisine all form a part of this colorful festival.

Puri Beach Festival has always been high on the tourism prospects. The festival is held in the month of November every year. It lasts for about five days all packed with engaging activities and events for the tourists to blend in the culture and traditions all colorful and majestic.

Looking at the festive celebrations it is both an opportunity to showcase talent for the local people and a magnanimous spectacle for the outsiders to witness a whole rich world of culture.

While on a visit to Orissa, the Beach Festival is the most enchanting experience of all. Right from cultural performances to beach fun, there is enough that this festival offers for every age group. The venue of the festival Puri Beach is a pilgrimage in itself and a perfect holiday destination.

From cultural events, classical and folk dance performances, sand sculptures, handicrafts and food festivals to rock concerts, DJs, beach parties and fashion shows; Puri Beach Festival has all the ingredients to establish it as an international festival.

Every day at the festival is filled with listening rock music, tapping feet on classical and folk tunes, enjoying dance performances, shopping traditional handicrafts, enjoying the beach and to have night-long fun on beach.

The credit for conducting the wonderful Puri Beach Festival goes to the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Orissa (HRAO). It is co-sponsored by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India; the Department of Tourism, Government of Orissa; Development Commissioner of Handicrafts and the Eastern Zonal Cultural Center; Calcutta.

Mati puja

Mati Puja festival is celebrated with great excitement and enthusiasm in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh. The festival is called by different names in different regions of Bastar district like Maati Ti'aar in central Bastar and Beeja Pandum in South Bastar.

People worship the mother Earth on the occasion for getting blessed with ample yield of crops for the coming season.The festival holds the special importance in this region as people earn their living by farming and totally dependent on their crop yield every year.

The festival is marked by many rites and rituals, in order to please mother Earth.

Parab Tribal Festival

The Parab Tribal Festival is an annual cultural Fiesta that showcases and glorifies the great culture and traditions inherited by various tribal communities in Orissa. It is particularly held in the Koraput district, Orissa. Initiated in the year 1996 by the District council of Koraput, presently the festival is known for its rich cultural showcase.

Many tribal groups can be seen exhibiting their art and crafts at the festival. There are numerous events like quiz shows, book fair, art exhibitions and seminars that are organized for the visitors and locals.

Over the years the Festival has gained immense popularity and visitors from far and wide gather here during the festival. The festival provides great opportunity for visitors to have a glimpse of the rich culture, traditions, rituals, art forms, craftsmanship etc.

Parab Festival is highly significant to the tribal groups of Orissa as it gives a platform to even the small tribal groups existing in the state. These tribal groups are able to remain in forefront due to the festival and preserve their culture to the fullest.

Parab tribal festival is known as “Festival of Festivals”. The festival apart from providing a platform to showcase their rich art and culture also gets the tribal communities closer and helps them interact among each other. In the near future the festival is close to attain a national status as it is slowly gaining both national and international publicity.