Hinduism has a special status in India, and Holi is one of the most famous festivals in the community. Holi welcomes spring with a carnival of colors. Rituals of prayers and gatherings around the fire are performed, and on the second day, a jet of pigments is spread. People gather in open spaces and have ►
Hinduism has a special status in India, and Holi is one of the most famous festivals in the community. Holi welcomes spring with a carnival of colors. Rituals of prayers and gatherings around the fire are performed, and on the second day, a jet of pigments is spread. People gather in open spaces and have a great time celebrating by singing, dancing, and tasting delicious specialties. One of the best places to enjoy Holi is Jaipur.
Diwali is designated as the festival of lights. Like Holi, Diwali is honored as the triumph of good over evil. Five days are dedicated to this event, which takes place in November. Days before Diwali, Hindus usually cleaned their homes and decorated them with flowers and lights. They also prepare pastries to be shared in the neighborhoods. Generally, people will light oil lamps in the evening to illuminate the living space and chase away the darkness. The sounds of firecrackers and fireworks are also heard on this particular night.
Lord Ganesh's birth is worshipped in August or September by a carnival lasting almost 10 days. The first days are spent preparing sacrificial items such as flowers, rice, and coconuts as offerings to Lord Ganesh. Then, a large parade of songs and dances is organized on the last day. On this specific day, the statue of Ganesh is immersed in the ocean to finalize the festivities.
Holla Mohalla takes place in Anandpur Sahib in March. The Sikhs showcase their martial skills in dramatic simulated martial arts fights. The spectacle is impressive, with the handling of weapons, archery, wrestling or stunts. During the celebration, participants indulge in music, poetry recitals, and song and dance performances.
In July or August, Ladakh promotes the festival of Buddhist monasteries. Monks dressed in colorful robes and scary masks perform cham, a sacred dance representing the purification of the spirit and the triumph of good over evil every year.
Moharram is a Shia Muslim holiday in August that marks the first month of the Muslim calendar. This ceremony, which is celebrated all over India, includes a period of fasting that ends with chariot processions. ◄
