Ganga Dussehra - River Of Life - North India festival

Ganga Dussehra - River Of Life - North India

Jagannath Rath Yatra Celebrations 2010

Rathyatra - Chariot Festival - Orrisa

This spectacular chariot festival celebrated for 8 days is held at the famous Jagannath Temple at Puri (Orissa). Thousands of devotees flock to Puri during the occasion, as they believe that a glimpse of Lord Jagannath in his chariot gives salvation. Images of Lord Jagannath - the Lord of the Universe, his sister Subhadra and brother Balbhadra are taken out in a procession in three immense chariots. The main chariot is 14 meters high and 10 meters square with 16 wheels. 

Thousands of devotees pull these chariots to Gundicha Mandir, a temple 3 km away. After a week, on 'Ashadha Sukla Dasami', the 10th day of the bright fortnight of Ashadha (June-July), return journey or 'Bahuda Yatra' of the deities commences in the same manner from Gundicha temple to the main temple like Rath Yatra.When two months of Ashadha fall in one year, Rath Yatra is observed as the festival of 'Nabakalebar' the old deities are buried within the temple premises ('Koilibaikuntha') and are replaced by new deities, carved out of Margosa trees for which there are set procedures. Double Ashadha occurs at intervals of 8 to 19 years. Construction of the chariots begin as early as April.

Jagannath Rath Yatra or the' chariot journey of Lord Jagannatha', observed in the month of Ashadha (June-July), is a festival that celebrates the annual visit of the God to his birthplace. The Jagannath Temple at Puri, Orissa is the venue for all celebrations. Several lakh people converge at Puri for this festival. An atmosphere of almost hysterical devotion prevails on this day and in earlier years; devotees were known to have thrown themselves under the wheels of the rath in the hope of obtaining instant salvation.

Images of Jagannath, as Lord Krishna is known, his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra, are taken in giant chariots to Gundicha Ghar. They stay there for a week and then return to the temple. On their journeys they are accompanied by a huge procession of people, singing and celebrating.

The Legends behind the Yatra The festival has been celebrated since ancient times. According to a legend about its origin, Jagannatha is said to have expressed his desire to visit his birthplace every year for a week. Accordingly, the deities are taken to the Gundicha Mandir every year.

According to another legend, Subhadra wanted to visit Dwarka, her parent's home, and her brothers took her there on this day. The Yatra is a commemoration of that visit.

According to the Bhagavad Purana, it is believed that it was on this day that Krishna and Balarama went to Mathura to participate in a wrestling competition, at Kansa's invitation.

 

Some Hindus believe that Jagannatha is an incarnation of Vishnu. Since Vishnu has four arms, Balabhadra, Subhadra and Sudarshana represent Vishnu's four arms. Each deity has its own massive chariot, which are replicas of the temple. Jagannatha's chariot, Nandighosha, is yellow in color, 45 ft high and has 16 wheels, each one seven feet in diameter. About 4,200 devotees draw the chariot. Balabhadra's chariot is called Taladhvaja, is blue in color and has 14 wheels. Subhadra's chariot is the smallest, with 12 wheels and is called Deviratha.

Origin of the chariot rideAccording to a legend, when a poisonous arrow accidentally killed Krishna, his body was left under a tree. Later, someone cremated him and placed the ashes in a box. Directed by Vishnu, Indradyumna requested the divine artisan Vishvakarma to mould an image from the holy relics. Vishvakarma agreed to undertake the task, provided that he was left undisturbed till its completion. When several years passed, Indradyumna became impatient and went to see how work was progressing. Enraged, Vishvakarma left the image incomplete. Indradyumna had ordered the construction of a temple to house the statue. So he ordered his chariot to transport the statue, as it was, to the temple. There, Brahma breathed life into the image.

The RitualsOn the day of the journey, people get up early and offer prayers to Jagannatha. The chariots are lined up in front of the Puri temple. The King of Puri with great pomp and ceremony then brings the deities to their respective chariots. Devotees offer prayers to the deities. Descendants of the King, heralded by gaily-caparisoned elephants sweep the chariot platforms with a gold-handled broom and sprinkle scented water to demonstrate that in the eyes of God, all men are equal. Devotees also hurl obscenities and profane abuses at the God.

Locals believe that there existed an incestuous relationship between Jagannatha and his sister Subhadra, which provoked abuses when the images were out in public. The entire yatra is a symbolic humanization of God and an attempt to bring God down from his pedestal of glory to a more human level.

Only the King of Puri and the King of Nepal are allowed to touch the idols as they belong to the Chandravanshi dynasty, the same as Krishna. Then the teeming pilgrims line up and pull the chariot.

When the chariots reach the summerhouse, the idols are installed. The journey back, a week later, consists of another ritual, known as Phera Rath Yatra.Every year, the chariots are broken down, its wood sold as relics and a replica made. However the images of the deities are preserved. It is only when two Ashadha months occur one after the other that the images are changed. This happens once in 12 or 24 years. The ceremony, Naba Kalebar, consists of burying the old images inside the temple. Then new images are created. This practice stems from the belief that in such a year, everything in the universe changes form, and therefore Jagannatha receives the same treatment

Celebrations This day is a public holiday in the state. Children are seen on the streets carrying miniature versions of the chariots with tiny idols installed on them. Shops and houses are decorated with flowers, lights and rangoli. Special dishes and sweets are prepared. Most people refrain from eating non-vegetarian food. As this festival falls during the monsoon season, people also thank the Gods for their mercy and bounty, by participating in the procession. Nowhere else is a deity, once consecrated, taken out of the temple. The Jagannatha Temple at Puri is the sole exception to this general rule. In fact during the Ratha Yatra, the chariots become mobile temples, which sanctify the city. 

Jagannath Rath Yatra Celebrations

On the second day of Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashadh, Jagannath RathYatra is performed.

It is performed in the holy city of Puri which is one of the four ‘Dhams’.

Chaitanya Maha Prabhu is merged with the Lord Jagannath Idol in the city of Puri.

Jagannath, believed to be an avataar of Lord Vishnu, is the Lord of Puri. RathYatra is of great significance to the Hindus. It is during this time that the three deities of Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra are rendered in a grand procession in specially made gigantic temple-like chariots called Raths, which are pulled by thousands of devotees. It is said that whoever pulls the Rath is blessed. Anyone who comes in contact with the wind that has touched the Rath and the idols is purified and all the sins are washed away.

The festival begins with the Ratha Prathistha or invoking ceremony in the morning, but the Ratha Tana or chariot pulling is the most exciting part of the festival, which begins in the late afternoon when the chariots of Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra start rolling. Each of these carriages have different specifications: The chariot of Lord Jagannath is called Nandighosa, has 18 wheels and is 23 cubics high; the chariot of Balabhadra, called Taladhvaja has 16 wheels and is 22 cubics high; Devadalana, the chariot of Subhadra, has 14 wheels and is 21 cubics high.

Each year these wooden chariots are constructed anew in accordance with religious specifications. The idols of these three deities are also made of wood and they are religiously replaced by new ones every 12 years. After a
Nine day sojourn of the deities at the country, temple amidst festivities, deities are returned to the city temple of Lord Jagannath.

Rath Yatra is a great festival because of its ability to unite people in its festivity. All people, rich and poor, Brahmins or shudras equally enjoy the fairs and the joy in celebrating the Rath yatra.

Puja is performed of Jagannathji by offering prasad and lighting the lamp.
On this day, people do puja of the basna/bahikhaata (account books).

International Flower Festival 2010

International Flower Festival-sikkim

A rare show of exotic varieties of flowers, orchids and other plants native to Sikkim, a north east state. Held every summer during the peak flowering season, this is a spectacular event attracting people from all over India..

The tiny state of Sikkim, famous for its flora which is in full bloom during March-May has around 600 species of orchids, 240 species of trees and ferns, 150 varieties of gladioli, 46 types of rhododendrons along with a variety of magnolias and many other foliage plants. The main displays in the flower show are orchids, gladioli, roses, cacti, alpine plants, creepers, climbers, ferns, herbs etc. Experts in the various fields hold seminars and lectures.

A food festival with Sikkimese delicacies is organised during the show. River rafting and Yak Safari are added attractions.

In May, most of Sikkim's horticultural delights are at their best. Gangtok goes to town and shows them off with a huge outdoor flower festival, with food and entertainment thrown in for good measure.

Sikkim boasts 600 species of orchids, 240 species of trees and 240 species of ferns, 150 kinds of gladioli, 46 varieties of the world-famous rhododendrons, varied species of magnolias and many other foliage plants. During the month of May, they are in full bloom and experts gather to hold lectures and seminars. Most of the action takes place near the Governor's Residence at White Hall.

Summer Festival-2010

Summer Festival

MOUNT ABU

The Summer Festival is held every year in the month of Aashadh (June). The steep rocks, tranquil lakes, picturesque locations and the pleasant climate of Mount Abu make it an ideal location for the festival. The three-day festival is a feast of folk and classical music and a window to the tribal life and culture of Rajasthan. The festival begins with the singing of a ballad, which is followed by Gair, Ghoomar and Daph folk dances which enthral the spectators.

Sporting events such as the boat race on the Nakki Lake add variety to the festival. The Sham-e-Qawwali is a much-awaited musical extravaganza as renowned qawwals regale the audience.

The grand finale of the festival is a display of dazzling fireworks which adds to the tourist's fantasy.

TAMIL NADU

There are several beautiful hill stations in Tamil Nadu. With the Summer Festivals on, the hills are even hospitable to welcome the visitors coming from india and abroad. The summer festival is held in the 'Queen of Hill Stations' the evergreen Ooty, the exquisite Kodaikanal or the salubrious heights of Yercaud - where boat races, flower and fruit shows are specially organized.

Tourists also get a splendid opportunity to go trekking in any of Tamil Nadu's other hill stations that promise unforgettable holidays off the beaten track. Cultural programs, adventure sports, boat races, flower and fruit shows add to the splendour of the festival.
  

Buddha Poornima 2010

Buddha Poornima, which falls on the full moon night in the month of Vaisakha (either in April or May), commemorates the birth anniversary of Lord Buddha, founder of Buddhism. Notwithstanding the summer heat (the temperature routinely touches 45 degrees C), pilgrims come from all over the world to Bodh Gaya to attend the Buddha Poornima celebrations. The day is marked with prayer meets, sermons on the life of Gautam Buddha, religious discourses, continuous recitation of Buddhist scriptures, group meditation, processions, worship of the statue of Buddha. The Mahabodhi Temple wears a festive look and is decorated with colourful flags and flowers. The Chinese scholar, Fa-Hien has recorded celebration of this festival.

It is an important to give a summarized description on the Buddhist festivals in India, especially in the main places of worship. The principal annual ceremony for all the Buddhist is the Vaisaka Purnima known in Sri Lanka as Wesak festival and in India as Buddha Jayanti. Vaisaka Purnima day is fixed by the full-moon day of the month Vaisaka, which falls in May. Like all other Buddhist festivals it falls according to the Lunar year. It was of this day of the year, according to the year.

He attained Supreme Enlighten or Buddha hood, beneath the Bodhi-tree at Boddha Gaya. Forty-five years later at the age of eighty, he finally passed away in Parinivana on the same day of the year at Kushinagar. Vaisaka Purnima is celebrated especially in Boddha Gaya, Lumbini and in Kushinara as they are the holy places that were connected with the blessed ones birth, enlighten and the Parinirvana. Buddhists in Sri Lanka, Burma, Thailand, Tibet, China, Korea, Laos, Vietnam, Mongolia, Bhutan, Cambodia, Nepal, Japan and quite a number of western Buddhists participate 'Vaisaka' Purnima Day religious activities in a festive mood. Sarnath the capital of Buddhism too celebrates Vaisaka Purnima day in a grand way.

The great Buddhist festival 'Vaisaka' ,although is an occasion for rejoicing doesn't encourage hectic gaiety and abandon. The happiness that the Buddhists feel when they are celebrating it is a tranquil, peaceful joy. The festival has its gay side as well. In most of the Buddhist countries the villages, roads, streets, temples and houses are brightly illuminated with color Lanterns, electric lights and colorful decorations.

Mayday Festival 2010

Introduction

May Day, the first day of the month of May is celebrated all over India as a spring fertility festival to honour goddess spring. The day also commemorates the “International Worker’s Day” which has a historic significance. It is also a day of political protests. May Day is otherwise observed as a saint's feast day or a day for organized labor. In many countries, it is a public holiday.

May Day as Labour Day

In many countries including India, May Day is also celebrated as Labour Day. The day originates with the US labour movement in the late 19th century. The history of the movement dates back to May 1, 1886. On this day several labour unions across the US went on strike, demanding a standard workday of eight hours. On May 4th there was bloodshed in Chicago's Haymarket Square – A bomb thrown by a revolutionist led to the deaths of a dozen people (including several police officers) and the injury of over 100 people.

The protests did not get an immediate outcome, but they proved effective subsequently, as eight-hour work days became the norm in many countries across the globe. This day was hence chosen as a day for demonstrations, parades, and speeches. It is a major state holiday in US, Russia and other communist countries. In India, May Day has also been declared a public holiday.

Celebration

Labor Day is celebrated on May 1 in many countries around the world and it is still often a day for protests and rallies. On this day, various labour organizations across the country carry out processions and organize competitions for children belonging to labour class.

However, in recent years, the celebration of this day has taken a new turn, where the workers and trade unions demand to safeguard their interests and give the economic reforms a humane face.

Chaitra Navratri festival 2010

Introduction

Navratri, the festival of nine nights is dedicated to Goddess Durga and her nine forms. According to the Hindu calendar, Navratri begins from the first day of the bright fortnight of Ashwin which usually coincides with the end of the rainy season.

The nine days have great religious significance as Goddess Durga, the divine mother, had destroyed the evil force (in the form of the demon Mahisashura) during this period.

The festival is celebrated with true devotion and purity all over the country.

People from various sections of the society irrespective of caste and creed celebrate this festival by visiting temples and offering pujas at the Mother’s feet.

In some places special puja samarohas are also held by setting the images of Mother Durga on beautifully decorated pandals.

Temples dedicated to Shakti also make arrangement for pujas and bratas to mark these nine days as true symbols of devotion and adoration towards the divine mother.

Rituals :

Navratri is divided into sets of three days to adore three different aspects of the supreme goddess or goddesses. During Navratri, different forms of Mother Goddess are worshipped. On the first three days Durga or Goddess of Energy is worshipped.

The next three days are devoted to Lakshmi or Goddess of Wealth and the last three days for Saraswati or Goddess of Knowledge. On the fifth day, it is traditional to worship Saraswati to invoke our spirit and knowledge.

On the eighth and ninth day, Yagna (sacrifice offered to the fire) is performed to honor Durga Mata and bid her farewell. The festival of Navratri concludes in Mahanavami. On this day Kanya Puja is performed. Nine young girls representing the nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshiped. In some regions a young boy also accompanies them who symbolize Bhairav; he is considered as protector against all evils.
Fast is observed by devotees during all the nine days of Navratri. Prayers are also offered for good health and prosperity. Navratri, besides being a period of introspection and purification, is also considered an auspicious time for starting new ventures.

Chaitra Navratri 2010

Navratri, the festival of nine divine nights is full of festivity and merry making. The festival of Navratri is the perfect blend of fun, dance and worship of Goddess Durga.

Navratri is celebrated twice in a year, once in the month of March or April and other in the month of September or October. Navratri is dedicated to worship of goddess Durga and is the most awaited festival for all age groups.

Chaitra Navratri or Chait Navratras or Ram Navratri or Vasant Navratri, is observed during the Chaitra month (March – April) in a traditional Hindu calendar followed in North India.

Chaitra Navaratri 2010 begins on March 16 and ends on March 24. The festival is dedicated to Goddess Shakti and her other three forms– Goddess Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati.

It begins on the first day of the Chaitra month and ends with Ram Navami.

Navratri Puja

Navratri is celebrated twice in a year.One after the festival of Holi in the month of Chaitra Shukla Paksha from Ekam (First day) to Navmi (Ninth day). These are called Vasanth Navratri. In this, prayers are offered to Lord Vishnu.

Once before Dussehra in the month of Ashwin Shukla Paksha on Ekam (first Day) to Navmi (9th day). These are called Sharadeeya Navratri. In these nine days of Navratri, we pray to Durga Maa.

On the eight day of this Navratri, Durga Maa was born, hence her puja on this day is of special significance.





These nine days also have a special significance for unmarried girls.

Preparation for the puja

- Picture or image of Durga Maa   

 -Durga Sapthashati book, Devi’s armour

- Water in a kalash, mango leaves, coconut

- Roli, moli, chawal, paan, betl nut.

- Cloves, cardamom, sindoor, abhir, gulal

- Dhoop, deepak, matchsticks

- Flowers such as hibiscus, lotus, roses and belpatr leaves

- Fruits such as pomegranate and sweets such as laddoo and peda

- Panchpatra containing spoon and water, pata, mat to sit (Aasan)

Jhuwara is grown - On the first day of Navratri, take a large earthen pot with a wide mouth, put some sand in it and plant either jaun or wheat kernels which have been soaked the previous night. Every day a little water is sprinkled over them and they are put in sunlight for a short time for germination.

Vidhi / Method of performing puja

Place the kalash by putting wheat grains on the pata, fill water in the kalash, place live mango tree leaves in the mouth of the kalash and put a coconut in the middle, Moli is tied on the neck ofthe kalash.

Place Durga Maa’s image on the pata and worship with roli, rice, flowers, belpatr, sindoor, abhir and gulal.

Maa ki jyoti lena

Take a small clay pot, add a burning coal to the pot, pour ghee over the coal and offer a small piece of laddoo, peda or halwa. Keep adding ghee at intervals. The higher the flame the more auspicious it is. This jyoti / light has to be maintained throughout the puia. At the conclusion, fold your hands and circle them around the jyoti.

Light dhoop and deepak.

Perform Durga Saptashati or Devi Kavach (hymn invoking Devi's protection) either yourself or by a Pundit.

Some people go to the temple for these nine days to perform the puia.

Many people fast on this Day. At least one meal should be a phalaahaar and the other can be with cereal.

Many people conclude the puja on the 8th day by doing Devi ki Kadhai. On this day, Maa ki jyoti is taken with halwa. You should make atta halwa, chawal ki kheer, puri, kaala chana (black grain) and one or two vegetables. Unmarried girls are invited for meal. After the food, the girls are given some fruits and money as Dakshina.

sSome people do Devi ki Kadhai on the 9th day.

‘Durga Stuti’ is sung:

“Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu shri rupen sansthita
namas tasye namas tasye names tasye namo namah”


‘Durga Maa ki Aarti’ is sung:

Jai Ambe Gauri, Mayya Jai Shyama Gauri...
Tumko Nishidin Dhyavat, Tumko Sabdin Sevat, Hari Brahma Shivji... Jai!!

Manga Sindoor Virajat, Teeko Mrigmad Ko, Maiya Teeko Mrigmad Ko...
Ujjwal Se Dou Naina, Ujjwal Se Dou Naina, Chandra Vadan Neeko… Jai!!

Kanak Saman Kalevar, Raktambar Raje, Maiya Raktambar Raje…
Raktapushpa Galmala, Lalpushpa Galmala, Kantahan Har Saje… Jai!!
s
Kehari Vahan Rajat, Khadag Khappar Dhari, Maiya Khadag Khappar Dhari…
Sur Nar Munijan Sewat, Sur Nar Munijan Sewat, Tinke Dukkhahari… Jai!!

Kanan Kundal Shobhit, Nasagre Moti, Maiya Nasagre Moti…
Kotik Chandra Diwakar, Kotik Surya Diwakar, Samrajat Jyoti… Jai!!

Shumbhu Nishumbha Vidare, Mahishasur Ghati, Maiya Mahishasur Ghati…
Dhoomra Vilochana Naina, Madhura Vilochana Naina, Nishidin Madmati… Jai!!

Brahmani Rudraini, Tum Kamala Rani, Maiya Tum Kamala Rani…
Aagam Nigam Bhakhani, Aagam Nigam Bhakhani, Tum Shiv Patrani… Jai!!

Chaunsath Yogini Gavet, Nritya Karen Bhairon, Maiya Nritya Karen Bhairon…
Bajat Tal Mridanga, Bajat Dhol Mridanga, Aur Bajat Dumroo… Jai!!

Bhuja Char Ati Shobhit, Var Mudra Dhari, Maiya Var Mudra Dhari…
Manwanchhit Phal Pavat, Man Iccha Phal Pavat, Sewat Nar Nari… Jai!!

Kanchan Thal Virajat, Agar Kapoor Bati, Maiya Agar Kapoor Bati…
Malketu Mein Rajat, Malketu Men Rajat, Koti Ratan Jyoti… Jai!!

Durgaji Ki Aarti, Jo Koi Nar Gave, Maiya Jo Sunder Gave…
Kahat Shivananda Swami, Ratata Shivananda Swami, Sukh Sampati Pave!!

Jai Ambe Gauri, Mayya Jai Shyama Gauri...
Tumko Nishidin Dhyavat, Tumko Sabdin Sevat, Hari Brahma Shivji!!

Bolo Durge Maiyya ki Jai!!!

Nine days of Navratri

First Day

IThe first day is dedicated to the Goddess Durga is called Shailputri, the daughter of the Himalayas. She is a form of Shakti, the companion of Lord Shiva.

Second Day

The second day is dedicated to the Goddess Durga is known as 'Brahmacharini'. The name is derivative of the word 'Brahma', which means 'Tapa' or penace. She is also a form of Mata Shakti.

Third Day

The third day is dedicated to the goddess Chandraghanta, the symbolic representation of beauty and bravery.

First Day

IThe first day is dedicated to the Goddess Durga is called Shailputri, the daughter of the Himalayas. She is a form of Shakti, the companion of Lord Shiva.

Second Day

The second day is dedicated to the Goddess Durga is known as 'Brahmacharini'. The name is derivative of the word 'Brahma', which means 'Tapa' or penace. She is also a form of Mata Shakti.

Third Day

The third day is dedicated to the goddess Chandraghanta, the symbolic representation of beauty and bravery.

  

Fourth Day 

The fourth day is dedicated to the goddess Kushmandas, the creator of the entire Universe.

Fifth Da

 The fifth day is dedicated to the Goddess Skand Mata, the mother of the chief warrior of the Gods army the Skanda.

Sixth Day

Tamil New Year Festival

The Festival

The month of Chitthirai i.e. from mid-April to mid-May is the first month of Tamil calendar. The month usually starts from 14th April, the day known as Tamil New Year. This is an auspicious occasion for Tamilians (people of Tamil origin) living all over the world. People exchange greetings by wishing “Puthandu Vazthukal” – Happy New Year, with great passion. According to Hindu Mythology, this is the day on which Lord Brahma (the creator of the universe) started the creation of the world.


Celebration

The first day of Tamil calendar starts with some popular beliefs and faiths. People rise early in the morning and go for 'kanni' – the auspicious sight. The belief is that this brings good fortune throughout the year. The auspicious things may include gold and silver jewellery, betel leaves, nuts, fruits and vegetables, flowers, raw rice and coconuts etc. The auspicious sight is then followed by a ritual bath and visiting temple to pray for a prosperous and happy New Year. After which, the Panchangam (almanac) is read.

The women decorate the entrances of their houses with ‘Kolam’ (design made with rice flour) and the doorway with mango leaves. Another highlight of this festival is the preparation of ‘Maanga Pachadi'. It is a dish made of raw mangoes, jaggery and neem flowers, tasting sweet, sour and bitter one at the same time. This signifies all aspects of our life and tells us to face happiness and sorrow with equal ease.


On this day several fairs and cultural programs are organised at different places all over the state. A grand Car Festival is held at Tiruvadamarudur near Kumbakonam every year on April 14th. Also in Madurai witnesses marriage of Goddess Meenakshi (Parvati) to Lord Sundareswarar (Lord Shiva) in the form of ‘Chitthirai festival’ with great grandeur. Offerings to the deities, comprising of food, flowers and fruits is an important component of the festival.

12 months in Tamil calendar

• Chittirai (mid-April to mid-May)
• Vaikaasi (mid-May to mid-June)
• Aani (mid-June to mid-July)
• Aadi (mid-July to mid-August)
• Aavani (mid-August to mid-September)
• Purattaasi (mid-September to mid-October)
• Aipassi (mid-October to mid-November)
• Kaarthigai (mid-November to mid-December)
• Maargazhi (mid-December to mid-January)
• Thai (mid-January to mid-February)
• Maasi (mid-February to mid-March)
• Panguni (mid-March to mid-April)

Bihu festival

Bihu or Bohag Bihu is the biggest festival of the people of Assam. It is a festival that transcends all religious and class barriers bringing people together in a free and uninhabited manner. The Assamese observe not one but three Bihus. Bohag Bihu, which is celebrated in mid-April, the Magh Bihu, which is held in mid-January, and the Kati Bihu which is celebrated in mid-October. The three are connected with the spring, winter and autumn seasons respectively.

Bihu is the biggest festival of the people of the Assam region. This is truly a regional festival, which brings a sense of solidarity and unity among the people of the Assam region. It comes thrice a year and marks the changes in the seasons. The first of the "Bihus" falls on "Chait Sankranthi" (mid-April). It is called Bihag Bihu or Rangoli bihu. In fact bihu is a festival to celebrate fertility. Rangoli Bihu is the most festive and joyful of all the Bihus.

The Rangoli Bihu is a Spring, New Year and agriculture festival, all rolled into one. The first day of Rangoli Bihu is known as Gori Bihu and is reserved for cattle rites. Household cattle get special attention and they are decorated with colorful garlands of flowers and given goodfood. The next day is called "Manuh Bihu". Paying homage to elders is customary on that day.. The next day is "Gosain Bihu", which is reserved for religious services. The seventh day has the people customarilu preparing seven types of leafy vegetables called "SatSak ". Games and sports are also a necessary part of the Bihu celebrations.

The last of the Bihus is the "Kati Bihu" which is a one-day celebration. It falls around October- November, when the paddy crops are yet to mature and the granaries are almost empty. Hence it is called "Kangali" or Poor Bihu.Naturally there is no feasting on this day. Special Tulsi Pujas are held on this day. The first day of Bohag Bihu is known as the 'Goru Bihu' and is reserved for cattle rites. Household is cleaned, the cows feet are washed, oil rubbed on their horns and hooves and some times they are decorated with garlands. The next day is 'Manuh Bihu' day; on this day homage is paid to elders, relatives and friends. The Bihu meal is a special one consisting of Chira, curds and sweets. The third day of Bihu is sometimes called the 'Gosain Bihu' and is set apart for religious services. Games and sports, special Bihu songs and dances, Fairs etc are a part of the Bihu celebrations. These Bihu songs are beautiful specimens of folk poetry set to lilting music and swinging rhythm. The Bihu dance is a vigorous, captivating dance reflecting the spirit of youth and vitality.

Beneshwar Fair

Beneshwar Fair is a five days fair starting from Shukla ekadeshi of Magh month of Hindu calendar. This is the unique and biggest tribal fair of the country attracting lakhs of devotees.

This fair is annually held in Dungarpur, Rajasthan. The name Beneshwar is derived from the holy Shiva Linga located in the Shiv temple in Dungarpur. ‘Beneshwar’ in the local language (Vagdi) means ‘master of delta.

The fair is organized at delta formed by rivers Mahi and Som. The fair continues till Shukla Purnima of Magh. Beneshwar is situated 24 kms. from Aspur in the district of Dungarpur.

The Beneshwar fair is infact the combination of two fairs. One fair is organized to pay tribute to the Lord Shiva, known as Beneshwar Mahadev.

And another fair is held to celebrate the finish of the construction work of the Vishnu temple by Jankunwar, the daughter-in-law of saint Mavji.

The priest or Mathadish arrives in a massive procession to the fair site from Sabha and take a dip into the river water. Then aarti of the Mathadish are performed and Raslila are reenacted during the night in the Lakshmi Narayana temple.

Bhils or tribal people from Dungarpur, Udaipur and Banswara constitute the major part of the gathering. The fair is very famous and is organized at very large level.

Legend

town named Beneshwar is so named because of the deity associated with place. The sacred Shiva Linga is located in Mahadev temple here. The lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of Beneshwar Mahadev.

Shiva is also popularly known as Rudra or Mahesh and he is one of the Trimurti being other two deities Vishnu and Brahma. Brahma is seen as the creator, Vishnu as the maintainer or preserver, and Shiva is the destroyer.

Shiva is believed to have a third eye on his forehead which opens at the time when some destruction is needed to be done.

The devotees of Shiva are called Shaivas and the religious tradition is called Shaivism.

We usually see Shiva linga in temple instead of pictures of Shiva.

Whenever his pictures are seen, he is represented as immersed in deep meditation or dancing the Tandava.

Siva linga is considered the concentration of magnificent light and solidification in the upper part of the ling. The lower base of the structure represents the lamp and the upper section, the flame.

Jankunwari the daughter-in-law of Mavji, a highly reverted saint also an incarnation of Lord Vishnu built a temple of lord Vishnu. The day also marked the finishing day of the construction work.

It is believed that two of Mavji’s disciple Vaje and Aje, built the Lakshmi Narian temple near the meeting point of the two rivers Mahi and Som. The pran-pratishtha ceremony of the idols to the temple was performed on magh Shukla Ekadashi. Since then onwards a fair is organized every year to celebrate this auspicious event.

Rituals & Celebrations

Rituals

The large devotees that gathers here at the time of the fair pays reverence and offerings to all the deities in the temple. The priest or the Mathadish comes to the location of fair from Sabha along in a huge procession. A 16 cms. silver image of Mavji sitting on horseback is also brought here.


The Mathadish and the statue or image of Mavji is bathed into the river water. This river water is considered holier.


People considers auspicious to take bath in this holy water. They believe that taking a dip or two will purify them and all their sins will ward off. This will attain them salvation.Prayers are offered five times a day in the temples of Lakshmi-Narayana and Brahma. The temple of Baneshwar Mahadev remains open from 5.00 a.m. to 11.00 p.m. during the fair.

The Shiva linga is bathed then saffron is applied on the Shiva linga and incense sticks are lighted to make the whole environment fragrant.

The ash or babhut is applied on the linga and aarti is waved with clanging brass gong in the evening which is then followed by colourful celebrations. Devotees offer wheat flour, pulses, rice, jaggery, ghee, salt, chillies, coconut and cash.


Celebrations

All the tribal people, young or old, who come to attend the Baneshwar Fair sing traditional folk songs loudly sitting around a bonfire every night in high spirit. Groups of villagers are also invited to participate in the programme. The fair is coloured by the cheerfulness of songs, folk dances, magic shows, animal shows and acrobatic feats. The fair resonate with the gaiety of people coming there.

The local people also actively participate in various activities. The fun rides on merry-go-rounds and swings furthers the excitement.A temporary mini market is established in the mela place. Many useful items for household, traditional farming tools and fancy items come in these markets. The large number of shops in the fair proves a shopping paradise for both buyers and sellers.

How to reach

Beneshwar fair is held at the delta formed by the meeting of rivers Mahi and Som. The Beneshwar temple is located about one and a half km away from Nawa Tapra village.

Sabla is the nearest bus stand from Nawa Tapra village. The site is 6.5 kms from Sabla village on the Udaipur-Banswara-Dungarpur route. Sabla village is at a distance of 123 kms from Udaipur, 53 kms from Banswara, 45 kms from Dungarpur and 22 kms from Aspur. One can easily get bus for sabla village from above places.

One has to go Beneshwar from Sabla on foot or on private carts in normal days. However, there are special provisions organized by private and Rajasthan roadways buses during Beneshwar Fair.

Time to celebrate

The Beneshwar fair is celebrated for five days in January/Feburary. The fair starts from eleventh day of shukla paksh of Magh and conclude on the fifteenth day of the same. It is celebrated-

In 2010: 26-30 January, 2010

In 2011: 14-18 February, 2011

In 2012: 3-7 Feburary, 2012

Desert Festival

The Desert Festival is a 3-day extravaganza of colour, music and festivity, held at the golden city of Jaisalmer. Gair and Fire dancers swaying to traditional tunes, a turban tying competition and a Mr. Desert Contest are a part of the fun and frolic. The grand finale is a trip to the Sam Dunes where one can enjoy the pleasure of a camel ride and even watch the folk dancers and musicians perform.

Once a year in winters and on the middle of the continually rising and falling stark yellow sands of the great Thar Desert, the empty sands around Jaisalmer come alive with the brilliant colour, music and laughter of the Desert Festival. The festival is organised by the tourist authorities as tourist entertainment around January-February.

The very rich and colourful Rajasthani folk culture is on show here for a few days. Rajasthani men and tall beautiful women dressed in their brightly costumes dance and sing lingering ballads of valour, romance and tragedy. Traditional musicians attempt to outdo each other in their musical superiority.

The high points of the festival are - snake charmers, puppeteers, acrobats, folk performers do rapid trade. Camels, the lifeline of the desert, play a foremost role. Proud moustached villagers, dressed in their ethnic best come astride their picturesquely caparisoned camels to join in the camel dances and competitions of camel acrobatics, camel races and dicor, camel polo, tug of war and the like.

The tourist dances, turban tying competitions and tug of war are big draws and laughter. The Mr Desert competitions, which are focused around the length of moustaches by and large, attract many hopefuls.