Ambaji Bhadra Purnima
Introduction To Ambaji Bhadra Purnima
Ambaji Bhadra Purnima is celebrated in Gujarat with pomp and grandeur. The main event takes place at the shrine of goddess Ambaji near the foothills of Aravalli mountain ranges. Ambaji Bhadra shrine is one of the oldest and attractive shrines in Gujarat. The festival takes place on the full moon night in the month of August or September. The festival and the fair attract tourists from different corners of the country as the devotees have a strong belief on the goddess.
Description of Ambaji Bhadra Purnima
The main festival takes place in the shrine of Goddess Ambaji, which remains populated by the tourists during the main event that takes place in the month of 'Bhadra' according to the local calendar. During the ceremony, the goddess is worshipped and devotees from different parts of the world gather to make their wishes come true. Ambaji shrine is one of the important shrines and is regarded as the 'Shakti Pitha'. On the full moon day, various religious rituals and the Garba performances take place near the shrine. The fair or mela in front of the shrine makes the event more attractive and significant.
Time For Celebration of Ambaji Bhadra Purnima
The fair and the festival take place in the month of Bhadra which falls in the month of September. There is no particular idol and no specific shape of the Goddess. Ambaji Bhadra Purnima is the main seat of Hindus where Hindu religion acquires a different shape with the celebration.
Biswakarma Puja
Biswakarma Puja Gujarat, is the worship of Lord Biswakarma or Vishkarma, who was the architect of Dwarka, the city that was built for Lord Krishna. Lord Biswakarma is worshipped all over India, and particularly in the industrial cities, by those who work with tools and factory machinery.
Gujarat is the most industrialized state in the country, being home to 20% of the country’s industry. Biswakarma Puja Celebration in Gujarat therefore sees considerable public enthusiasm and is, one of the most popular fairs and festivals in Gujarat. Gujarat is in fact one of those states that see one of the most elaborate celebration of Biswakarma Puja, in the country in general.
Biswakarma Puja in Gujarat India is characterized by the worship by people, mostly workers, of the implements with which they earn their daily bread. Artisans clean their tools and repaint old machines; shop and factory floors are decorated for the occasion; loud speakers blare out music and the earthen idol of Biswakarma riding his vehicle, elephant can be seen being worshipped everywhere.
Biswakarma- the architect god is in fact the divine architect of the whole universe, regarded as the supreme worker and the personification of the creative power that holds heaven and earth together. The idol depicts him with four hands, carrying a water-pot, a book, a noose and craftsman's tools. All the divine weapons such as chariots that are traditionally possessed by the gods are his creation.
Biswakarma puja is also known in some parts of India as a day for flying kites. Whole families gather on rooftops throughout the day and local clubs arrange competitions. Another occasion that sees the Indian skies flooded with kites is, Poush Sanranti: the last day of the month of Poush (December-January).
Christmas
A coastal state that ranks as the most industrialized state in the country, Gujarat is located on the west coast of India. A vibrant land that abounds in enchanting tourist spots, Gujarat attracts tourists from worldwide. The state boasts of a rich cultural heritage which is reflected in the indigenous fairs and festivals in Gujarat. Indianholiday offers online information on Christmas Gujarat.
Gujarat is a land of Festivals and Fairs, and the state celebrates almost 3,500 festivals pertaining to different religions all through the year. The diverse ethnic groups constituting the Gujarati population has resulted in numerous festivals being celebrated in the state. Although not being a Christian state essentially, Gujarat celebrates Christmas Festival with great fervor and gaiety as does the rest of India.
Celebrated every year on 25th December to commemorate the birth of Lord Jesus, Christmas in Gujarat is celebrated with great pomp and fervor, with both Christians as well as non-Christians participating in the fun and merrymaking wholeheartedly. Christmas Celebrations in Gujarat India is marked by people from all over the state as well as from outside indulging in fun and frolic and being part of the exotic fiesta that pulsates with the excitement of Christmas and Santa Claus.
For the Christians in Gujarat, the celebrations for Christmas Gujarat begin on Christmas Eve, with ‘Carols’ being sung in Churches. Dance and Music form the most important part of celebrating Christmas Gujarat. All the natives and tourists participate in wholeheartedly in such merrymakings.
During Christmas in Gujarat, the Churches get adorned with colorful papers, poinsettias and illuminated aromatic candles, all these adding an altogether divine essence to the festive ambience. The market places are decorated with tinsel and buntings and at places, you might even chance upon people posing as Santa Clause and stalking customers, especially children with gifts and endowments. Glittering Christmas trees are seen adorning numerous houses. Many houses are decorated with glowing stars and little Christmas trees adorned with sparkling stars, cotton or snow flakes, lights, candy and cakes. After the morning prayers are over, Christians assemble in their homes to indulge in some merry-making with the family and friends.
Christmas in Gujarat India is also witness exchange of gifts between friends and family, and some mouth-watering goodies being prepared to add on to the gay festivities. But the real essence of Christmas in Gujarat cannot be summed up in mere words. Travel to Gujarat during the Christmas to experience the excitement and fun.
Deepavali - The Festival of Lights
Introduction to Deepavali - The Festival of Lights
A major Indian festival that is of immense significance in Hinduism, Sikhism and Jainism, Deepavali or Diwali is popularly hailed as the “Festival of Lights” and celebrated with great gusto and aplomb all over India. The legendary epic Ramayana has it that after defeating Ravana and rescuing Sita, Lord Rama returned triumphant to his capital Ayodhya where he was crowned. To commemorate the joyous occasion, people decorated their houses with lamps. Since then, this day is celebrated as Deepavali – The Festival of Lights.
As in other parts of India, Deepavali in Gujarat is celebrated with great fervor and gaiety. The festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil, and is marked by lamps being lit as a sign of celebration and hope for mankind. Deepavali Festival in Gujarat honors Lakshmi – the Goddess of Wealth.
Time of Celebration of Deepavali - The Festival of Lights
Deepavali – the festival of lights is usually celebrated in October/November, eaxctly 20 days after Dussehra – another important festival is celebrated.
Description of Deepavali - The Festival of Lights
A land of Festivals and Fairs, Gujarat state in India celebrates almost 3,500 festivals in different parts of the state every year. Deepavali is one of the most celebrated festivals in Gujarat. Diwali festival in Gujarat is celebrated with the lighting of tiny earthen oil lamps in every house, decorating the floors with beautiful rangoli and bursting of fire crackers. The dark backdrop of the night accentuates the divine beauty of the earthen oil lamps adorning the houses.
The festival spreads for four days, with Dhanteras (Dhanatrayodashi) being the first day, or rather the eve of the day on which the festival commences. Narkachaturdashi or Kalichoudas is the second day, followed by Lakshmi Puja and New Year simultaneously occurring on the third day. Bhaiya-duj is the last day of Diwali celebration. During Deepavali in Gujarat people worship Lakshmi – the Goddess of Wealth. The following day after Deepavali is celebrated as a New Year’s in Gujarat.
For traditional Hindu businessmen in Gujarat, Deepavali marks the end of the fiancial year. This is considered the most auspicious time to start new ventures. Symbolic favorable business deals are done to mark the prosperity in business for the following year.
Easter Gujarat
Introduction
One of the important fairs and festivals in Gujarat is the Easter. The Easter, Gujarat is celebrated generally during the month of March and April every year. The festival is religiously celebrated by the Christians all over the world and also in Gujarat. From Easter eggs to Easter bunnies, Easter is a time to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Indianholiday.com offers online information on Easter, Gujarat and other tourist attractions of Gujarat and other parts India. On your tour to Gujarat in India you can be a part of this colorful festival.
Time of Celebration
Christians from all over the world observe the Easter. This is celebrated during March and April every year. This is the day when Jesus Christ was crucified. Christians from all over the world as well people from different religions attend the prayer service in the Church. Easter, Gujarat is observed religiously and Christians in Gujarat attend the prayers in the Churches in Gujarat.
Description
The word Easter according to some was coined from Goddess Eostre by the Anglo Saxons in the 8th century. According to the Roman Catholic Church a number of celebrations take place during this time. Firstly the paschal candles are lit, service of lessons takes place and then the blessings and the mass of Easter follows. The first mass of Easter takes place in the midnight. During the Easter in Gujarat a number of people from all over assemble in the Church to attend the midnight mass of Easter, Gujarat.
After that comes a joyful announcement that “Christ is risen” and this is followed by the Easter Eucharist. When the procession comes out from the church there are no lights but when it comes back there are a number of lights and candles which denote the significance of Christ’s Resurrection.
There are a number of popular beliefs associated with Easter. In Easter Gujarat you can get to see a number of colorful celebrations where the Christians from all the communities participate. There is an association between Easter and spring as both of them denotes the birth of new life. In different parts of the world there are different customs related to Easter. One of the important rituals is making Easter eggs and even Easter bunnies. In Gujarat different Christian families wear colorful dresses and make excellent sweets and desserts. On your tour to Gujarat you can see the Christian families participating in the celebration of Easter.
Different countries have different customs regarding the Easter eggs. According to some Easter egg is the tomb from which Jesus Christ came out. It is a symbol of fertility and new beginning. Rabbits were also a Christian symbol associated with fertility.
Good Friday
Introduction
The Friday before Easter is celebrated throughout the world as Good Friday. One of the important Christian festivals it commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. This is a holy day for the Christians where they attend the prayer services and listen to the readings from Gospel. Indianholiday.com offers online information on Good Friday, Gujarat and other Fairs and Festivals in Gujarat and other parts India. On your tour to Gujarat in India you can be a part of this colorful festival.
Time of Celebration
Christians from all over the world observe Good Friday as the day when Jesus Christ laid down his life for the good of humanity. It is celebrated on a Friday before Easter. This is the day when Jesus Christ was crucified. Christians from all over the world as well people from different religions attend the prayer service in the Church. Good Friday, Gujarat is observed religiously and Christians in Gujarat attend the prayers in the Churches in Gujarat.
Description
One of the most sacred festivals of the Christians, Good Friday is celebrated all over India as well. Good Friday, Gujarat is one of the important occasions which brings all the Christians in Gujarat to attend the prayer service. People from other religions even attend the Good Friday, Gujarat during this time.
Good Friday also called Holy Friday is one of the sacred dates for the Christians. The day is a day of mourning where Christians follow the rituals to commemorate the event of Crucifixion of Jesus on this day.
The date of Good Friday marks the end of a 40 day period of fasting during Lent which tries to remember the agonies and pain which Jesus Christ went through while he spent his penance in the desert.
Holi
Festival of colours, Holi is celebrated with great fanfare in the Gujarat state of India. Falling on the full moon day in the month of Phalguna, Holi is a major Hindu festival and marks the agricultural season of the Rabi crop. Indian Holiday offers to give you online information on Holi festival in Gujarat, India.
Festival of Holi is celebrated with much gaiety and fanfare in the Gujarat district of India. The festival is marked by sprinkling of colored water and applying gulal on each other. Bonfire is also lit in the main squares of the villages, localities and colonies. People collect at the time of bonfire and celebrate the event, which is symbolic of the victory of good over evil by singing and dancing.
There are many stories associated with the origin of Holi. For some Holi marks the day when devotees of lord Vishnu, Bhakt Prahlad who was seated on the lap of demoness Holika was saved from the effect of the fire by God and instead the demoness got burnt. For others the festivals relate to the death of demon Putana at the hands of lord Krishna while some associate the festival with the worship of Karma, God of pleasure and destiny.
Holi is basically a harvest celebration, marking the end of winter and bonfires are lit marking the ending of evil. Dhuleti, which is celebrated on the next day, involves fasting, feasting and throwing of colour and water on each other.
Id-ul-Zuha
Situated near the Chenab River on the west coast of India, Gujarat is the most industrialized state in India and a land that abounds in enchanting tourist spots. A state steeped in tradition and rich cultural heritage, Gujarat also has an abundance of festivals and celebrations. The glory and grandeur of the land gets reflected aptly through the joyous celebration of these fairs and festivals in Gujarat. Indianholiday offers online information on Id-ul-Zuha (Bakri-Id) Gujarat.
The population of Gujarat is a mix of Hindus, Muslims and Jains, with the Muslims accounting for 19% of the total populace. Hence, most of the important Muslim festivals including the Id-ul-Zuha Festival is celebrated with equal fervor and gaiety in Gujarat as in the rest of India.
Though most Muslim festivals follow their own calendar, Id-ul_zuha or Bakri Id, as it is popularly known, is celebrated in February or March every year. The festival is celebrated from the 10th to the 12th day in the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah. Id-ul-Zuha (Bakri-Id) Gujarat coincides with the Haj pilgrimage in Mecca. Every year, when Haj pilgrims to the Mount of Mina make animal sacrifices as part of pilgrimage rituals, Muslims worldwide celebrate Id-ul-Zuha Festival.
Id-ul-Zuha (Bakri-Id) Gujarat is celebrated to commemorate the sacrifice of Hazrat (Prophet) Ibrahim, who, out of his own will agreed to kill his son at the behest of God. In celebration of this event, Muslims sacrifice one goat (Bakri) per family or per group of families. Prayers are held in moques, followed by feasting and rejoicing.
Islamic belief goes that in order to test Propeht Ibrahim’s faith, Allah (God) ordered him to sacrifice his son Ismail. Ibrahim agreed to do so but found it very difficult to supress his paternal instincts. So he put a blindfold over his eyes before putting Ismail on the altar at the Mount of Mina near Mecca. After performing the act he removed the bandage from his eyes, only to see his son standing in front of him, alive.Instaed, a slaughtered lamb lay on the altar.
During the Id-ul-Zuha (Bakri-Id) Festival in Gujarat, prayers are offered in mosques and thereafter, sacrificial meat is distributed after solemnizing the Id prayers. Special sweets and other delicacies are prepared for the festival and served to family and friends.
Every true Muslim who owns wealth equal to or more than 400 grams of gold or can afford two square meals a day, is expected to sacrifice an animal during Id-ul-Zuha (Bakri-Id) Gujarat. A goat, sheep, camel or any other four-legged animal can be slaughtered during any of the three days of the festival, and the meat should be distributed thereafter. The sacrificial offering gets divided into 3 parts – one for the self, another for frinds, and the third, most importantly for the poor and needy. The sacrfice needs to be offered any time before the afternoon of the third day.
Janmashtami Festival
Introduction To Janmashtami Festival
Janmashtami Festival in India is one of the main celebrations in India, where Lord Krishna's birth is celebrated nationwide. This festival bears historical and mythological importance in India. The festival is celebrated with pomp and grandeur and people from different parts of the country warmly welcomes the advent of the Lord.
Description of Janmashtami Festival
Janmashtami is popular as 'Gokulashtami' or 'Krishna Jayanti'. Lord Krishna is regarded as one of the main Gods among the Hindus. According to the mythology, there are various 'Yug' (phase) of Hindu mythology, and the birth of Sri Krishna took place in 'Dwapur Yug'. Sri Krishna came in this world to demolish the daemon Kansha, the king of Mathura. The birth occasion of Krishna is celebrated with the offerings that take place through out the night.
Lord Krishna is the incarnation of Lord Vishnu and he took birth to kill his maternal uncle Kansha. Lord Krishna was born of Devki, sister of Kansha. Kansha was aware of his death and so he killed other children of Devki. But as Kansha was destined to be killed by Devki's eighth son, so Krishna was handed over to Nandalal who had taken care of Krishna. The legend and the myths make a wonderful impact and beliefs on the Hindus and these strong beliefs are well evident in the glory and splendor of the occasion. People of Gujarat treat the occasion as a grand event and the celebration takes place in temples, personal houses and in the localities when all the females treat Lord Krishna as their own child. On the occasion different sweets, dishes are prepared to give honor to the God.
Time For Celebration of Janmashtami Festival
Janmashtami festival is celebrated all over India. The cities like Agra, Mathura, Brindavan, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Dwaraka, Mumbai, and other parts of India. Janmashtami depends on Hindu calendar but generally the day falls in the month of July or August.
Kutch Utsav
Known as the land of fairs and festivals, Gujarat is a vibrant and an exotic land and visited by large number of tourists every year. Kutch Utsav or Kutch Mahotsav is an important festival of Gujarat organized by the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Ltd. (TCGL). Indian Holiday offers to give you online information on Kutch Mahotsav in Gujarat, India.
Kutch Utsav or Kutch Mahotsav is celebrated every year in the month of February and March and involves an exotic tour of the Kutch region. The itinerary of this fair consists of guided tour of the important places like temples, beaches, historical monuments etc.
The Kutch Utsav tour includes travel, cultural exposure, entertainment etc.
The Kutch Utsav or the Kutch Mahotsav is celebrated near the days when Shivratri is celebrated. During the celebrations of Kutch Desert festival, colorfully attired dancers and music concerts are something to look forward to.
Maharishi Valmiki’s Birthday
Maharishi Valmiki is a sage poet and is popularly accredited to the writing of the oldest epic- the Ramayana. The Maharishi Valmiki’s Birthday Gujarat is celebrated at some places in Gujarat and is one of those fairs and festivals in Gujarat that revert back to the Indian cultural roots, that was at one point of time inseparably intertwined with religion.
However, the Ramayana like most other Indian scriptures was also originally part of the orature tradition that passed down stories, verses and hymns from one generation to another, from the guru to the disciple. And therefore, Ramayana is actually the result of a collective effort on the part of number of poets and sages, though it is only Valmiki’s name that has survived the clutches of time, to reach us.
Maharishi Valmiki’s Birthday in Gujarat India is celebrated in the month of October. His birthday is a holy day for the sect who prays and make offerings in his temples around India. Maharshi Valmiki was originally a ruthless and cruel robber who did not hesitate to kill people to rob them. However, under the influence of God Narada, the great follower of Lord Vishnu, he renounced his worldly unfair ways to spend time praying and preaching the name of the Lord.
Maharishi Valmiki’s Birthday Celebration in Gujarat includes reading out verses from Ramayana and worshiping the poet along with and also Rama. It is said, Valmiki gave shelter to Rama’s wife Sita in his ashram. She gave birth to twins Lav and Kush in the ashram and brought them up there. Lav and Kush at one point of time went to their father’s court and sang the Ramayana. Lord Rama himself was very pleased with the epic; though he did not know these boys were his own sons. Later however, he accompanied them to the ashram to meet Sita.
Mahavir Jayanti
Introduction
One of the important Fairs and Festivals in Gujarat is the Mahavir Jayanti, Gujarat. Celebrated throughout Gujarat it is to commemorate the birth anniversary of Mahavir who founded Jainism. One of the religious events of the Jains it is celebrated throughout Gujarat with all the proper rituals. Indianholiday.com offers online information on Mahavir Jayanti, Gujarat and other tourist attractions of Gujarat and other parts of India.
Time of Celebration
On the 13th day of the bright half month of Chaitra according to the Hindu solar Calendar, the Mahavir Jayanti, Gujarat is celebrated all over. It generally falls on the month of March and April. Jains during this time visit the sacred destinations and worship the Tirthankaras. The event is important in Gujarat as most of the Jain shrines are established here.
Description
For the Jains the celebration is all about quiet prayers and there is no revelry associated with it. The austere nature of the Jain religion is also maintained while celebrating the ritual. For the tourists, the Mahavir Jayanti,Gujarat in India is an interesting attraction as they get to worship Mahavir and follow the rituals as well as get a glimpse of the Jain shrines in India.
Mahavir was regarded as a religious reformer who went against rituals of Hinduism that existed in the later Vedic Times. He taught his followers to practice penance and abstinence and that according to him was the true path of salvation. Mahavir Jayanti, Gujarat celebrates the teachings and values which Mahavir had taught.
There are many sects in Jainism now like the Digambars and Svetambaras, Deravasis and Sthanakvasis. It is the Deravasis who visit temples and worship Mahavir. The Sthanakvasis on the other hand emphasize the internalization of the faith.
The Jain ascetics are totally against idol worship and they follow certain principles like they walk bare feet so that they do not crush insects under their shoes, wear muslin patches around the nose and mouth so as not to kill insects. In Gujarat the Mahavir Jayanti, Gujarat is marked with celebrations in Palitana which is a hill in Gujarat dotted with the most number of Jain shrines. During the Mahavir Jayanti, Gujarat, Jain pilgrims assemble here to offer their worship to the Mahavir.
Modhera Dance Festival
Introduction To Modhera Dance Festival
Modhera Dance Festival holds an eminent position among the festivals of Gujarat. Gujarat is a state where tradition and culture can be witnessed in various festivals that are celebrated in Gujarat Modhera Sun Temple is a popular seat of tourists where the sculptures on the walls show the rich heritage of the past. The Modhera Dance festival of Gujarat takes place in the backdrop of the sun Temple where classical dance get a new dimension.
Description of Modhera Dance Festival
The venue of Modhera Dance Festival, Gujarat is the Sun temple which is an important religious spot for Hindus. The temple dedicated to Sun God bears the traces of ancient art and architecture. To relive the past glory the Government of Gujarat organizes traditional dance festival every year. The colorful festival with all kinds of tradition performances makes the celebration a grand. Sun temple is the perfect destination where art and culture blends to form a rich heritage. Modhera is located in Mehasana district of Gujarat. Garba, the traditional dance of Gujarat is the main attraction. Apart from that, the other traditional dances like Kathakali, Kuchipuri, Bharatnatyam and Manipuri, other folk dance from different parts of the country are gathered to make the dance festival diverse and countrywide.
Time For Celebration of Modhera Dance Festival
Modhera Dance Festival of Gujarat is held in January every year. The dance festival of Gujarat is famous world wide. And in this festival tourist get the opportunity to experience the varieties of dances of ancient and contemporary India. The festival is celebrated for three days where different forms of dance from different state are performed.
Navratri
Introduction To Navratri
Navratri is one of the popular and well-known festivals in Gujarat. This festival is known as the festival of nine nights. In this festival Devi Shakti is worshipped to mark her mythological victory against the power of evil and the start of a reign of peace. This festival is considered to be the oldest festival of Gujarat. Garba and Navratri are interrelated. The colorful songs and dances of the festival heighten the spirit of the festival.
Description of Navratri
'Navratri' means 'nine nights'. It is a time for people overlook all their worries and engage in a carnival of song and dance. People re-enact the victory of Goddess Durga through their song and dance. Not only Gujarat, but other parts of India too celebrate the occasion with pomp and grandeur. Images of the mother goddess are worshipped in specially erected puja pandals. The evenings come alive with local cultural programs and the dance performances.
Apart from the festival, the local performances like 'Bhavai', 'Garba' and dancers with kumbh (pots) are the most attractive features of Navratri. During Navratri all the participants and the locals can be spotted in ethnic costumes. Females wear 'ghagra choli' and males wear 'dhoti kurta'.
The boys and girls irrespective of age, caste and creed enjoy the famous 'dandiya' or 'garba' dance where they dance wearing colorful clothes with sticks or dandiya to the folk music of Gujarat Navratri is a celebration of religious, cultural and devotional values. It makes people forget all their worries and enjoy the spirit of festival.
Time For Celebration of Navratri
Navratri is an eminent festival of Gujarat and is celebrated in the month of October when the worship of goddess Durga takes place. The celebration lasts for nine nights and each and every corner of the state takes on a different form during the celebration. Navratri is the festival of color.
Rath Yatra
Introduction To Rath Yatra
The theme of the Rath Yatra in Gujarat is different from that of Orissa. While the Rath Yatra in Puri, Orissa occurs on the day that Sri Jagannath is believed to have left for his summer vacation to a palace in the countryside, the Rath Yatra of Gujarat is celebrated with a completely different event in mind.
This festival crosses all barriers of caste and creed. All the devotees irrespective of religious differences take part and give this festival a secular tinge.
Description of Rath Yatra
Rath Yatra of Gujarat is associated with Lord Krishna. He was brought up by Nandalal of Gokul. Lord Krishna was invited by Kansha, the king of Mathura. Kansha was the maternal uncle of Lord Krishna and he was destined to be killed by Krishna. When Kansha threw an open challenge to Krishna, the latter went to Mathura. The journey that Krishna undertook by a chariot is now celebrated in the 'chariot festival' or the Rath Yatra in Gujarat. When Sri Krishna left his village, the beautifully decorated chariot was followed by playmates and Gopis of Gokul. In this journey towards the battle against evil, Krishna was accompanied by Balaram, his elder brother.
Still today the occasion is celebrated with beautifully decorated chariots with idols of Krishna, Balaram and Subhadra. In the present time the procession consists of devotees, music bands and bhajan mandalis. Devotees drawing the chariot are gripped with a devotional fever as they remember that auspicious day when Lord Krishna journeyed to Mathura on his chariot to destroy evil in the form of Kansha.
The procession is headed by the Mahant of Jaganath temple. The main themes and the significance of the day are the separation of Krishna from his friends and the commencement of a new journey of his life.
Time For Celebration of Rath Yatra
The celebration takes place in the month of either July or August. On the very day devotees from different corners of the state come and visit the place. Gujarat, with her unique tradition, celebrates the festival grandly.
Republic Day
Introduction
One of the most important events in Indian history is the day when the constitution of India came into force and that day in India is regarded as the Republic Day. It was on this day the doctrines of the Indian Constitution came into force and India became a Sovereign, Democratic and Republic state.
After years of struggle finally the Indian government was formed and India enjoyed its first taste of freedom from the colonial shackles. The Republic Day, Gujarat is regarded as a national holiday. This is one of the important fairs and festivals in Gujarat where the people of Gujarat celebrate their patriotic fervor along with other countrymen. Indianholiday.com offers online information on Republic Day, Gujarat and other tourist attractions of Gujarat and other parts of India.
Time of Celebration
Every year on 26th January, India celebrates its Republic Day through parades, rallies and colorful cultural programmes. On 26th January, 1950, Indian Constitution finally came into effect. To mark that day and to celebrate the democratic Republican status of India, Republic Day is celebrated on this date. 26th January is a national holiday all over India. Republic Day, Gujarat is also celebrated with much revelry and enthusiasm.
Description
On 26th January in India, Republic Day is celebrated all over. Every where including the major administrative units like the capital cities, district headquarters, sub divisions, Taluka and Panchayat celebrates the Republic Day, Gujarat with much revelry and fervor.
During the Republic Day, Gujarat a parade is held from the early morning when the Prabhat Pheris are organized. This is followed by homage to Mahatma Gandhi. Then in Delhi the parade is followed by sport events. The day is also celebrated by functions organized at the Raj Bhavan, at the District Magistrate’s House and also at the SDM’s house. The public buildings in the capital cities are illuminated as well as the administrative headquarters.
During the Republic Day, Gujarat the children from different schools participate. They present folk dances of different regions that show the colorful kaleidoscopic fabric of India. The parades in Delhi often showcase the newest advancements in technology and other sectors.
One of the most striking celebrations in the country is of Republic Day, Gujarat. You can get to see the parade of armed forces, folk dances of each state, streak of jet planes which leave behind the colored smoke. The President of India takes salute from the Armed Forces while in Gujarat and other states of India, the Governor takes the salute. A number of tourists come from all over the country to see the Republic Day, Gujarat celebrations.
Shamlaji Fair
Introduction To Shamlaji Fair
Shamlaji Fair, Gujarat is one of the main fairs in Gujarat. The fairs of Gujarat are quite exceptional; the fairs and the festivals that come about in the state are the true examples of India's rich heritage. The Shamlaji Fair or the Kartik Purnima Fair is one of the main events in Gujarat where all the tribes take part to make it a grand one.
Description of Shamlaji Fair
Shamlaji Fair of Gujarat is known as the Kartik Purnima Fair. The fair is celebrated by all the castes and communities of Gujarat; they are Garasias and Bhils who actively take part in the event. The celebration and the fair lasts for two weeks. The tribes mainly celebrate the fair where different stalls of local handicrafts and art and artifacts gives the tourists the opportunity to buy the local products that bear the significance of the place. The main festival is referred as the worship of the black deity named 'Kalio Bavji'.
Shamlaji is eminent for the Shamlaji Temple, Vaishnav Shrine. The temple bears all the traces of ancient architecture, according to the Archaeological Survey, the temple belongs to 11th century. All the fairs and festivals develop round the temple which shows the strong ethnic background of Shamlaji.
Apart from the fair, the auspicious bath in the river Meshwo is considered to be essential for the tourists for purgation. Tourists from different corners of the state and from neighboring states come and visit the holy destination of religion and culture.
Time For Celebration of Shamlaji Fair
Shamlaji Fair is held on the 'purnima' (full moon) of the month of 'Kartik' according to the local calendar, which falls in November. Tourists experience the true spiritual aura of Hindu culture and tradition in Gujarat.
Vautha No Melo
Introduction To Vautha No Melo
Vautha No Melo is the largest fair in Gujarat. The fair brings various local villagers close and that creates a record number of visitors in the fair. The Vautha No Mela takes place near the confluence of seven rivers. The mela or fair is an important contributor to the rural economy of Gujarat. The fair is named after Vautha where the rivers Vatrak and Sabarmati meet.
Description of Vautha No Melo
The fair holds mythological as well as economical importance to the state. The fair grounds spread across 3 square miles of land. It is believed by the locals that Lord Kartikeya, the son of Lord Shiva had visited the place. This incident gave rise to the festivities of the mela.
On the full moon night of November, that is the month of Kartik according to Hindu calendar, the grand fair of Gujarat starts. The site is famous as 'Saptasangam'; - a place of union of seven rivers. This place is the homeland of Saptarshi (Seven Sages). It is regarded as an auspicious spot with legendary significance.
Time For Celebration of Vautha No Melo
Vautha No Mela takes place in the month of Kartik according to the local calendar, which coincides with the month of November. The fair lasts for two to three days. Thousands of tourists flock to the fair for an experience that is entirely rustic.
Bhavnath Fair
Introduction To Bhavnath Fair
Bhavnath Mahadev Temple is located in the Junagarh district of Gujarat. The Bhavnath Fair is the main festival on the occasion of Shivaratri. The 'Mela' or the fair is the best place where the Hindu customs and beliefs are perceptible. The fair is the meeting place of various cultures. Gujarat is the place where 5000 years old Hindu tradition can be witnessed in the fair. The sages, the devotees, all gather to make the occasion ostentatious. Participation of all people from different strata creates a wonderful atmosphere, where the mela takes its true meaning.
Description of Bhavnath Fair
Bhavnath Fair of Gujarat takes place on the day of Maha Shivratri. On the very day, Bhavnath Mahadev temple is decorated and thousands of devotees across the country come to visit the fair and the festival. Fair is held on the adjacent ground of the temple where the sages from different corner of the country come to experience the holy occasion. The 'naga bavas' or naga sages move towards the temple on elephant's back to witness the maha puja. Shiva linga is worshipped and in the honor of the festival the fair is organized, which is now known nationwide. It is believed that Shiva himself had visited the shrine during the festival and this place is the abode of famous nine 'naths' of Hindu mythology. The sound of conch shell, drums and ululation create a pious ambience. The mela takes a holy shape with devotees, sages and spiritually elevated souls. The visitors are served free meals during the fair. In the fair different stalls give the visitors to buy the local handicrafts and other items.
Time For Celebration of Bhavnath Fair
Bhavnath fair is held during the Maha Shivratri festival of Hindus. The fair is famous and it is three days festival in the month of February. This fair is an important event which brings thousands of domestic as well as international tourists to the state.
Chitra Vichitra Fair
Held in the month of March, Chitra Vichitra fair is named after the sons of king Shantanu, Chitravirya and Vichitravirya and is an important festival of Gujarat. Celebrated after the Holi festival, Chitra Vichitra Fair is attended by large number of locals and tourists from across the country. Indian Holiday offers to give you online information on Chitra Vichitra Fair in Gujarat, India.
Largest tribal fair, Chitra Vichitra is celebrated in the village of Gunbhakhari in Sabarkanta district of Gujarat and is visited by large number of Bhils and Garasia tribes residing in the neighboring areas.
Main attraction of the fair is the magnificent temple overlooking the rivers Sabarmati, Akul and Vyakul.
With people dressed in traditional attire and display of traditional customs, Chitra Vichitra festival gives a chance to witness the social and customs of the Adivasis (tribal people).
Dang Darbar
One of the major tribal festivals of the Dang area, Dang Darbar Fair is held in the month of March every year. The Dang area is located in the Satpura hills and is surrounded by lush green forests. Indian Holiday offers to give you online information on Dang Darbar in Gujarat, India.
Dang Darbar Fair takes place before the colorful festival of Holi and focuses on the interesting lifestyle of the tribal people of the Dang area. The fair is held every year in the Ahwa district of Gujarat.
Dang Darbar is the perfect place to witness the lifestyle and cultural life of the native tribal people. The fair is started by the tribal chief who blesses the fair.
Kahalia and Tadpur the ancient tribal instruments are played during the Dang Darbar fair.
Dusshera/Vijay Dashami
Come September and an intangible bubbling excitement begins to charge the Indian air; it’s festival time again. The clear autumn sky smiles wide and large to summon people into the characteristic mad frenzy of celebration. Dusshera/Vijay Dashami Gujarat is the first big festival in the festival calendar of North India, and one of the most important fairs and festivals in Gujarat.
This festival falls on the 10th day of the waning moon during the Hindu month of Ashvin (around September-October). A fascinating collection of mythological legends and folklore are embroidered around Dussehra. It is believed that on this day, Rama, the hero of the great Hindu epic, Ramayana, killed the unrighteous demon Ravana, the 10-headed king of Lanka who had abducted Rama’s wife, Sita.
This victory is believed to have come after Lord Rama’s brother Lakshmana, along with an army of monkeys, fought a colossal battle that lasted 10 days. Rama, who was a devout worshipper of Durga (the Goddess of War, strength and destroyer of evil), prayed to her for the first nine days of battle, and killed the evil Ravana on the 10th day. He shot Ravana with a bow that pierced his navel. Out flowed the nectar of immortality that was stored in a pot in his navel, thus destroying his invincibility.
Ravana’s own brother Vibhishana (being the sensible one, he had switched sides) had divulged this secret to Rama. Dussehra is thus the festival that commemorates this triumph of Good over Evil. To this day Rama Lila (the enactment of the Ramayana, or literally the saga of Rama) is staged in towns and villages across the length and breadth of the country. The Ram Lila Ground at New Delhi is most famous for this and has been staging Ram Lila for the past 15 years or so.
According to another legend Dussehra is linked to Goddess Durga’s slaying of the buffalo-demon, Mahishasura. In Bengal the festival is known as Durga Puja and is the single most important festival for the Bengalis. The day of Dusshera is the same as Vijay Dashami- the day of emersion of the idol of Goddess Durga after four days of worship.
Dusshera/Vijay Dashami Celebration In Gujarat is characterized by Ram Lila and the burning of the effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna and Meghnath. Ram Lila is generally held in the evenings, and year after year, people flock in huge numbers to watch the saga unfold. In ancient times when it was considered demeaning for women to go up on stage, men performed the female roles and interestingly, this still happens in most parts of India.
Gandhi Jayanti
Gandhi Jayanti is the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation, and is celebrated with reverence all over the country. However, Mahatma Gandhi hailed from Gujarat and so Gandhi Jayanti celebrations in Gujarat acquire a special color, making it one of the most important fairs and festivals in Gujarat.
Gandhi, more populalrly knows as Gandhi ji, is the man who played a significant role in achieving independence for India from the British Empire with his ways of non-violence. Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, also known as 'Bapu' or 'Father of the nation', was born on the 2nd of October in 1869, in Porbunder, Gujrat; and that is the day when Gandhi Jayanti Gujarat is celebrated in Gujarat and also all over the country.
Gandhi ji was by profession a lawyer; he studied law in U.K and practiced as a lawyer in South Africa. But soon after, he left his profession and returned to India to join the Indian freedom-struggle.
Gandhi ji was a preacher of truth and 'Ahimsa'(non-violence) and started the 'Satyagraha' movement for the Indian freedom struggle. He believed in leading a simple and minimalist life and in 'Swadeshi'- the spirit of patriotism. The spirit of patriotism for him did not lie in the random killing of British officials, rather in the boycott of British manufactured goods, in the usage of Indian fabric, and in sticking to the roots of Indian philosophy of truth and non-violence.
The day is marked by prayer services and tributes all over India, especially at Raj Ghat, in New Delhi, where he was cremated. Popular celebration includes prayer meetings, commemorative ceremonies in different cities by colleges, local government institutions and socio-political institutions; the day is a national holiday.
Celebration of Gandhi Jayanti In Gujarat India reaches its peak at the Sabarmati Ashram, founded by him. His favorite song raghupati raghava is sung and prayer services are organized.
Guru Purnima
The day of full moon (known as Purnima), in the month of Ashadh (June-July) is traditionally celebrated as Guru Purnima by Hindus. Also known as Vyas Purnima, the day is celebrated in remembrance and veneration to sage Ved Vyas who is revered as the Adi (original) Guru of the Hindu Dharma; it is believed that Ved Vyas classified the Vedas, wrote the eighteen Puranas and the Mahabharata. Guru Purnima is one of the major fairs and festivals in Gujarat.
The Sanskrit root "Gu" means darkness or ignorance and "Ru" denotes the remover of that darkness. Therefore, one who removes ignorance which is a type of mental darkness is a Guru. Only he who removes our ultimate darkness, known as Maya, and who inspires and guides us on to the path of God-realization is the true Guru. The term Guru is nowadays also used to denote a teacher of any field.
The Guru played a very vital role in ancient India, when education system was characterized among the elite mostly by Guru Kulas or residence schools. Students who sought a particular Guru’s guidance and blessings had to go and stay with the Guru, sharing the same food as him and the roof. It is believed that when the student loses track, becomes despondent or simply runs out of steam, it is the Guru who is responsible for bringing him back on track. The aspirant is thus better able to obey the Guru if he understands the Guru's glory.
Therefore on the day of Guru Purnima in Gujarat India, disciples introspect, and present the guru with offerings and practice meditation, in reverence to the Guru in mind, remembering his action and speech; implicitly resolving to obey his unvoiced wishes, commands, serving him as one would God and lauding his glory and redemptive attributes. Guru Purnima Celebrations in Gujarat are carried out in ashrams as well as private households. Domestic celebrations are characterized by special offerings to the Guru, fasting, charity and so on.
The celebrations that go on at temples or ashrams are however more elaborate and grand in character. The Guru Purnima Gujarat Festival at Bochasan Mandir, is celebrated in the presence of Pramukh Swami Maharaj with much devotion and enthusiasm. The day begins with an assembly that goes on from 8.30 am to 12.00 noon. This assembly is marked by performances of bhajans and discourses by senior sadhus who emphasize and sing the glory of the Guru. The festival is finally crowned with Swamishri's blessings and darshan - where thousands offer their reverence by filing past Swamishri.
International Kite Festival
During the middle of January, the city of Ahmedabad in Gujarat break into a riot of colors as the International Kite Festival sets in. Kites of all shapes, sizes and hues cover up the expanse of the sky making for a rare spectacle.
The Myth Behind International Kite Festival
In fact, the international Kite Festival marks the end of the winter. Popular believe goes that during this time, the Gods who were asleep for the last six months, wake up and the thresholds of the heaven are opened. The faith translates into festivities one of its kind.
Celebration of International Kite Festival
The celebration inaugurates on 13 January every year and continues for 3 consecutive days from dawn to dusk. Days of preparation go into making the kites of every conceivable shape and size. The kite-lines are sharpened with mixtures of glue, ground glass and many more elements. The focus of the contest remains cutting the kite lines of others and thus emerging triumphant. Extensive researches and the innovative formulas and the consequent rivalry would hold anyone by surprise. The ear rending 'woh-katta' fills the air every time a kite-line is severed. The zeal and enthusiasm is unmatched.
A huge number of visitors pour into the city during the festival. Indianholiay.com, being a leading tour operator in India, arranges specially designed tour packages featuring International Kite Festival, which would give you charming insights into the life, style and culture of the old city.
Lakshmi Puja
On the third day of the festival of Diwali comes the most important day of Lakshmi Puja; a day that is entirely devoted to the propitiation of Goddess Lakshmi. And it is on this very day that the sun enters his second course and passes Libra, which is represented by the balance or scale. Lakshmi Puja Gujarat is one of the major fairs and festivals in Gujarat.
The sign of Libra is believed to have suggested the act balancing of account books and their closing that is performed on this day. Despite the fact that this day falls on an amavasya day it is regarded as the most auspicious.
The day of Lakshmi Puja In Gujarat India falls on the dark night of Amavasya. The strains of joyous sounds of bells and drums float from the temples as men invoke Goddess Laxmi the goddess of wealth and prosperity in a wondrous holy "pouring-in" of devotion amidst much ritual. The goddess Lakshmi is said to alight on earth in a ray of golden light to answer to the call of her devotees. It is believed that on this day goddess Lakshmi walks through the green fields and loiters through the bye-lanes and showers her blessings on man for plenty and prosperity.
Lakshmi Puja Celebration In Gujarat as elsewhere in North India, is expressed through the lighting of lamps, fireworks and crackers all over the city that illuminate the palaces of the wealthy as well as the lowly abodes of the poor.
Lakshmi Puja Gujarat or the worship of the goddess of wealth is the main event of Diwali festivities in North India. It is also believed that Goddess Lakshmi likes cleanliness, and she will visit the cleanest house first; so it is important to keep the house spotlessly clean on this night. This is also the reason why the broom is worshiped on this day with offerings of haldi and kumkum (turmeric and vermilion). Lamps are lit in the evening to welcome the goddess. They are believed to light up Her path.
Lakshmi Puja Gujarat is also considered as the beginning of the financial year for the trader community. Closing of old accounts and opening of new ones for the coming year are also an important part of Lakshmi Puja Gujarat.
Mahashivaratri
A land of fairs and Festivals, Gujarat state in western India is steeped in tradition and rich cultural heritage. Despite the various religious influences in the region, numerous fairs and festivals are celebrated in Gujarat with equal enthusiasm. The extent of celebrations is such that the region remains colorful all through the year, with several religious and regional fairs and festivals in Gujarat being held. Indianholiday offers online information on Mahashivaratri Gujarat.
Mahashivaratri Festival or the ‘Night of Shiva’ is celebrated with great devotion and religious fervor in honor of Lord Shiva – one of the deities of the Hindu Trinity. An important Hindu festival, Mahashivaratri is celebrated every year on the 13th night/14th day in the Krishna Paksha of the month of Maagh (according to Shalivahana) or Phalgun (according to Vikrama) in the Hindu calendar. This day corresponds to the month of February/March according to English Calendar.
One of the major festivals celebrated in Gujarat, Mahashivaratri Gujarat is marked by devotees observing day and night fast and performing ritual worship of the Shiva Lingam to appease Lord Shiva. Gujarat being dominated by a hefty Hindu population, Mahashivaratri Celebration in Gujarat is accompanied by great fervor and enthusiasm as in the rest of India.
Several interesting legends and stories are associated with the festival of Mahashivaratri. One of the popular legends mentions that Mahashivaratri marks the wedding day of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. According to another legend, it was on the auspicious day of Shivaratri that Lord Shiva performed the ‘Tandava’ Dance – the dance of primal creation, preservation and destruction. Yet another legend stated in Linga Purana states that Mahashivaratri was the day when the Lord manifested himself in the form of a Linga. Hence, the day came to be considered as one of the most auspicious days for Shiva devotees who celebrate it as Mahashivaratri – the Grand Night of Shiva.
A number of traditions and customs related to Mahashivaratri Festival in Gujarat India are dutifully followed by the devotees of Lord Shiva. During Mahashivaratri Gujarat, devotees observe severe fast in honor of Lord Shiva. While some follow a diet of only fruits and milk, many followers observe Shivaratri without consuming even a drop of water for the entire day. There is a strong belief among devotees that sincere worship of Lord Shiva on the auspicious occasion of Mahashivaratri Gujarat absolves a person of all sins and liberates him from the cycle of birth and death.
Mahashivaratri Festival is believed to be especially auspicious for women. While married women pray to the Lord for the overall wellbeing of husbands and families, unmarried women pray for a husband like Lord Shiva, who is regarded as the ideal husband.
During Mahashivaratri Gujarat, devotees wake up early in the morning and take a ritual bath. After getting decked in new clothes, the worshippers visit the nearest Shiva Temple to give ritual bath to the Shiva Lingam with milk, yoghurt, honey, ghee, sugar and water, etc. Priests perform ritual ‘pooja’ amidst chants of “Om Namah Shivaya” and ringing of temple bells.
May Day
Introduction
One of the several holidays celebrated in Gujarat is May Day, Gujarat. One of the traditional summer holidays in pre Christian European culture it is associated with Maypole. In India however May Day signifies celebrations related to the labor movement. Indianholiday.com offers online information on May Day, Gujarat and other fairs and festivals of Gujarat and other parts of India.
Time of Celebration
Celebrated on the first of May every year, every country has its own significance related to May Day. The May Day, Gujarat is also celebrated on the first day of the month of May. On your tour to Gujarat in India you can get to see the celebration of May Day in Gujarat.
Description
On May Day various socialist and labor movement celebrations were also conducted. So more than the pagan associations, May Day, Gujarat is associated with the political events. May Day is celebrated as International Worker’s Day or Labor Day. It is to commemorate the execution of Haymarket Martyrs who were arrested during the Haymarket Riot of 1886. This occurred in Chicago. On this day a number of labor unions across United States went on a strike and on May 4th a bomb blast by a revolutionist killed a dozen people. Though this took place in May 4, the event had started on 1st May. The association of May Day with communism has made it quite popular.
The protests during the May Day were not immediately successful. It was after the protests that eight hour work days were introduced. The labor leaders and socialists initiated the protests and helped in making the movement successful. One of the significant events in Soviet Union, May Day is also popular in India. During this day in Soviet Union one can see a May Day parade of tanks, rockets. In India, May Day, Gujarat is a holiday. Most of the industrial houses remain closed during this time.
The May Day, remembers the day when in 1884 the Federation of Organized Trades and Labor Unions demanded a eight hour work day in U.S.A. This led to Haymarket Riot and finally the protest yielded results.
On this day a number of labor organizations throughout the country carry their processions and often organize different competitions for children of the labor class. In Gujarat during May Day, Gujarat you can find the protests and rallies of different trade unions who demand to protect the interests of the laborers.
Muharram
Introduction
One of the most important fairs and festivals in India is the Muharram, Gujarat. Tourists from all over love the colorful festivals of Gujarat which have the quintessential Gujarati flavor in them. The Tazias of Muharram, Gujarat are one of the much awaited events of this festival in Gujarat. On your tour to Gujarat in India you can get a glimpse of this colorful festival. Indianholiday.com offers online information on Muharram, Gujarat and other Fairs and Festivals in Gujarat and other parts India. On your tour to Gujarat in India you can be a part of this colorful festival.
Time of Celebration
The festival of Muharram, Gujarat is not a celebration of a particular day but it is one month that marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar. Muharram is one of the four months that is regarded as a holy month according to the Islamic calendar. The Muharram is one of the sacred festivals in Gujarat which is a celebration of the followers of the Islamic community.
Description
During Muharram, Gujarat and also in other parts of the world you can find that people are fasting during the months of Muharram. According to the Prophet, “The best fasts after the fasts of Ramadan are those of the month of Muharram.” However though fasting in Muharram is not necessary yet if the followers fast on these days they feel that Allah Almighty will surely reward them and grant their wish. If some one fasts on the tenth day of the Muharram then it is called Ashura that is supposed to bring great rewards.
During the Muharram, Gujarat the people takes out processions with the colorful replicas of Imam Hussein’s tomb. The procession of Muharram is believed to be a march of the mourners who cover the distance barefoot. There are wrestlers and dancers as well who depict the sequences of Karbala.
There are certain rituals which the followers of Islam observe during the month of Muharram. During the day of Muharram, Gujarat you can see them observing a fast, doing charitable deeds and visit the pious Ulema. It is on the day of Muharram, Gujrat that Muslims apply surma on their eyes, take their bath and visit the sacred shrines.
Ram Navami Festival
Introduction
Ram Navami Festival, Gujarat is the celebration of the birth of Lord Rama. One of the most revered deities in India, Lord Rama’s birthday is celebrated throughout and also in Gujarat. It is believed that he lived during 8th and 7th century B.C. The epic which Valmiki wrote was called Ramayana from where we get to know about the life of Lord Rama. Indianholiday.com offers online information on Ram Navami Festival, Gujarat and other tourist attractions of Gujarat and other parts India. On your tour to Gujarat in India you can be a part of this colorful festival.
Time of Celebration
Every year on the ninth day of the first fortnight of Chaitra month the birth of Lord Rama is celebrated in India and all over Gujarat. It is believed that Lord Rama reincarnated on this day of the month to destroy evil and establish the basic virtues of humanity. This is one of the important Fairs and Festivals in Gujarat.
Description
One of the national and cultural festivals, Ram Navami Festival, Gujarat is quite popular across the state of Gujarat. It is believed that Ram Navami Festival inspires the people to reach the highest pedestal and achieve higher moral values.
An avatar of Lord Vishnu, Lord Rama is one of the most revered Gods. According to the Puranas, Lord Brahma was receiving complains that one of the demons called Ravana was destroying the earth with his evil powers. So Lord Brahma sent Lord Vishnu in the guise of Lord Rama as the son of Dasratha in Ayodhya. One of the legendary figures in India it was Lord Rama who vanquished Lord Ravana and saved the earth from the evil powers of Ravana. So every year his birth is celebrated amidst much revelry. On the ninth day of the new moon in April this festival is celebrated all over India and Ram Navami is also quite famous in Gujarat.
Ram Navami is one of the sacred festivals and is celebrated in Gujarat as well. Held in month of April, people religiously follow the rituals of Ram Navami. In Gujarat people can fast or can have vegetables which are not cooked in turmeric, garlic or onion.
Throughout you can get to hear Bhajans during Ram Navami in Gujarat. The houses are cleaned and pictures of Lord Rama, Lakshman, Sita and Hanuman are worshipped with flowers. One of the thalis contains Prasad while the other has roli, apun, rice, water, flowers, a bell and a conch.
Tarnetar Fair
Introduction to Tarnetar Fair
Tarnetar Fair, Gujarat is a popular fair in the state of Gujarat. This fair does not remain within the boundary of state but crosses it to reach the followers and the devotees. That shows the importance and the significance of the fiesta. The fair of Tarnetar bears mythological significances. Mahabharata, the epic of Hindus bears various significances of the fair and the place. The fair is the best place where tourists can experience the rich heritage of India and the colorful vivacity that lies in every celebration.
Description of Tarnetar Fair
Tarnetar Fair is an important festival in Gujarat. The festival originated from the days of Mahabharata. The three day festival of Swayamvar is organized every year. Young girls and boys dress in colorful clothes select their groom or bride respectively. This fair and the fiesta show the old tradition of choosing life partners of Hindu society. The festival is named after Tarnetar village that bears an oldest Shiva temple. The fair is an important event of the village. Ras Garba and Hudo are the main attractions of the fair where young girls and boys participate and add life to the social event. This event bears social relevancies than its religious ones.
Apart from this there is another distinctive feature of the fair is 'Tarnetar Chhatri' which is the colorful art and embroidery of Gujarat. These umbrellas bear intricate mirror work, embroidery and lacework.
Time For Celebration of Tarnetar Fair
The fair tales place in the month of August-September. According to the local calendar the fourth, fifth and sixth days of Shukla Paksha of the month. The fair and its social values add a different dimension. The relevancy and its focused objective have made the fair more significant and well-known.
Introduction To Ambaji Bhadra Purnima
Ambaji Bhadra Purnima is celebrated in Gujarat with pomp and grandeur. The main event takes place at the shrine of goddess Ambaji near the foothills of Aravalli mountain ranges. Ambaji Bhadra shrine is one of the oldest and attractive shrines in Gujarat. The festival takes place on the full moon night in the month of August or September. The festival and the fair attract tourists from different corners of the country as the devotees have a strong belief on the goddess.
Description of Ambaji Bhadra Purnima
The main festival takes place in the shrine of Goddess Ambaji, which remains populated by the tourists during the main event that takes place in the month of 'Bhadra' according to the local calendar. During the ceremony, the goddess is worshipped and devotees from different parts of the world gather to make their wishes come true. Ambaji shrine is one of the important shrines and is regarded as the 'Shakti Pitha'. On the full moon day, various religious rituals and the Garba performances take place near the shrine. The fair or mela in front of the shrine makes the event more attractive and significant.
Time For Celebration of Ambaji Bhadra Purnima
The fair and the festival take place in the month of Bhadra which falls in the month of September. There is no particular idol and no specific shape of the Goddess. Ambaji Bhadra Purnima is the main seat of Hindus where Hindu religion acquires a different shape with the celebration.
Biswakarma Puja
Biswakarma Puja Gujarat, is the worship of Lord Biswakarma or Vishkarma, who was the architect of Dwarka, the city that was built for Lord Krishna. Lord Biswakarma is worshipped all over India, and particularly in the industrial cities, by those who work with tools and factory machinery.
Gujarat is the most industrialized state in the country, being home to 20% of the country’s industry. Biswakarma Puja Celebration in Gujarat therefore sees considerable public enthusiasm and is, one of the most popular fairs and festivals in Gujarat. Gujarat is in fact one of those states that see one of the most elaborate celebration of Biswakarma Puja, in the country in general.
Biswakarma Puja in Gujarat India is characterized by the worship by people, mostly workers, of the implements with which they earn their daily bread. Artisans clean their tools and repaint old machines; shop and factory floors are decorated for the occasion; loud speakers blare out music and the earthen idol of Biswakarma riding his vehicle, elephant can be seen being worshipped everywhere.
Biswakarma- the architect god is in fact the divine architect of the whole universe, regarded as the supreme worker and the personification of the creative power that holds heaven and earth together. The idol depicts him with four hands, carrying a water-pot, a book, a noose and craftsman's tools. All the divine weapons such as chariots that are traditionally possessed by the gods are his creation.
Biswakarma puja is also known in some parts of India as a day for flying kites. Whole families gather on rooftops throughout the day and local clubs arrange competitions. Another occasion that sees the Indian skies flooded with kites is, Poush Sanranti: the last day of the month of Poush (December-January).
Christmas
A coastal state that ranks as the most industrialized state in the country, Gujarat is located on the west coast of India. A vibrant land that abounds in enchanting tourist spots, Gujarat attracts tourists from worldwide. The state boasts of a rich cultural heritage which is reflected in the indigenous fairs and festivals in Gujarat. Indianholiday offers online information on Christmas Gujarat.
Gujarat is a land of Festivals and Fairs, and the state celebrates almost 3,500 festivals pertaining to different religions all through the year. The diverse ethnic groups constituting the Gujarati population has resulted in numerous festivals being celebrated in the state. Although not being a Christian state essentially, Gujarat celebrates Christmas Festival with great fervor and gaiety as does the rest of India.
Celebrated every year on 25th December to commemorate the birth of Lord Jesus, Christmas in Gujarat is celebrated with great pomp and fervor, with both Christians as well as non-Christians participating in the fun and merrymaking wholeheartedly. Christmas Celebrations in Gujarat India is marked by people from all over the state as well as from outside indulging in fun and frolic and being part of the exotic fiesta that pulsates with the excitement of Christmas and Santa Claus.
For the Christians in Gujarat, the celebrations for Christmas Gujarat begin on Christmas Eve, with ‘Carols’ being sung in Churches. Dance and Music form the most important part of celebrating Christmas Gujarat. All the natives and tourists participate in wholeheartedly in such merrymakings.
During Christmas in Gujarat, the Churches get adorned with colorful papers, poinsettias and illuminated aromatic candles, all these adding an altogether divine essence to the festive ambience. The market places are decorated with tinsel and buntings and at places, you might even chance upon people posing as Santa Clause and stalking customers, especially children with gifts and endowments. Glittering Christmas trees are seen adorning numerous houses. Many houses are decorated with glowing stars and little Christmas trees adorned with sparkling stars, cotton or snow flakes, lights, candy and cakes. After the morning prayers are over, Christians assemble in their homes to indulge in some merry-making with the family and friends.
Christmas in Gujarat India is also witness exchange of gifts between friends and family, and some mouth-watering goodies being prepared to add on to the gay festivities. But the real essence of Christmas in Gujarat cannot be summed up in mere words. Travel to Gujarat during the Christmas to experience the excitement and fun.
Deepavali - The Festival of Lights
Introduction to Deepavali - The Festival of Lights
A major Indian festival that is of immense significance in Hinduism, Sikhism and Jainism, Deepavali or Diwali is popularly hailed as the “Festival of Lights” and celebrated with great gusto and aplomb all over India. The legendary epic Ramayana has it that after defeating Ravana and rescuing Sita, Lord Rama returned triumphant to his capital Ayodhya where he was crowned. To commemorate the joyous occasion, people decorated their houses with lamps. Since then, this day is celebrated as Deepavali – The Festival of Lights.
As in other parts of India, Deepavali in Gujarat is celebrated with great fervor and gaiety. The festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil, and is marked by lamps being lit as a sign of celebration and hope for mankind. Deepavali Festival in Gujarat honors Lakshmi – the Goddess of Wealth.
Time of Celebration of Deepavali - The Festival of Lights
Deepavali – the festival of lights is usually celebrated in October/November, eaxctly 20 days after Dussehra – another important festival is celebrated.
Description of Deepavali - The Festival of Lights
A land of Festivals and Fairs, Gujarat state in India celebrates almost 3,500 festivals in different parts of the state every year. Deepavali is one of the most celebrated festivals in Gujarat. Diwali festival in Gujarat is celebrated with the lighting of tiny earthen oil lamps in every house, decorating the floors with beautiful rangoli and bursting of fire crackers. The dark backdrop of the night accentuates the divine beauty of the earthen oil lamps adorning the houses.
The festival spreads for four days, with Dhanteras (Dhanatrayodashi) being the first day, or rather the eve of the day on which the festival commences. Narkachaturdashi or Kalichoudas is the second day, followed by Lakshmi Puja and New Year simultaneously occurring on the third day. Bhaiya-duj is the last day of Diwali celebration. During Deepavali in Gujarat people worship Lakshmi – the Goddess of Wealth. The following day after Deepavali is celebrated as a New Year’s in Gujarat.
For traditional Hindu businessmen in Gujarat, Deepavali marks the end of the fiancial year. This is considered the most auspicious time to start new ventures. Symbolic favorable business deals are done to mark the prosperity in business for the following year.
Easter Gujarat
Introduction
One of the important fairs and festivals in Gujarat is the Easter. The Easter, Gujarat is celebrated generally during the month of March and April every year. The festival is religiously celebrated by the Christians all over the world and also in Gujarat. From Easter eggs to Easter bunnies, Easter is a time to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Indianholiday.com offers online information on Easter, Gujarat and other tourist attractions of Gujarat and other parts India. On your tour to Gujarat in India you can be a part of this colorful festival.
Time of Celebration
Christians from all over the world observe the Easter. This is celebrated during March and April every year. This is the day when Jesus Christ was crucified. Christians from all over the world as well people from different religions attend the prayer service in the Church. Easter, Gujarat is observed religiously and Christians in Gujarat attend the prayers in the Churches in Gujarat.
Description
The word Easter according to some was coined from Goddess Eostre by the Anglo Saxons in the 8th century. According to the Roman Catholic Church a number of celebrations take place during this time. Firstly the paschal candles are lit, service of lessons takes place and then the blessings and the mass of Easter follows. The first mass of Easter takes place in the midnight. During the Easter in Gujarat a number of people from all over assemble in the Church to attend the midnight mass of Easter, Gujarat.
After that comes a joyful announcement that “Christ is risen” and this is followed by the Easter Eucharist. When the procession comes out from the church there are no lights but when it comes back there are a number of lights and candles which denote the significance of Christ’s Resurrection.
There are a number of popular beliefs associated with Easter. In Easter Gujarat you can get to see a number of colorful celebrations where the Christians from all the communities participate. There is an association between Easter and spring as both of them denotes the birth of new life. In different parts of the world there are different customs related to Easter. One of the important rituals is making Easter eggs and even Easter bunnies. In Gujarat different Christian families wear colorful dresses and make excellent sweets and desserts. On your tour to Gujarat you can see the Christian families participating in the celebration of Easter.
Different countries have different customs regarding the Easter eggs. According to some Easter egg is the tomb from which Jesus Christ came out. It is a symbol of fertility and new beginning. Rabbits were also a Christian symbol associated with fertility.
Good Friday
Introduction
The Friday before Easter is celebrated throughout the world as Good Friday. One of the important Christian festivals it commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. This is a holy day for the Christians where they attend the prayer services and listen to the readings from Gospel. Indianholiday.com offers online information on Good Friday, Gujarat and other Fairs and Festivals in Gujarat and other parts India. On your tour to Gujarat in India you can be a part of this colorful festival.
Time of Celebration
Christians from all over the world observe Good Friday as the day when Jesus Christ laid down his life for the good of humanity. It is celebrated on a Friday before Easter. This is the day when Jesus Christ was crucified. Christians from all over the world as well people from different religions attend the prayer service in the Church. Good Friday, Gujarat is observed religiously and Christians in Gujarat attend the prayers in the Churches in Gujarat.
Description
One of the most sacred festivals of the Christians, Good Friday is celebrated all over India as well. Good Friday, Gujarat is one of the important occasions which brings all the Christians in Gujarat to attend the prayer service. People from other religions even attend the Good Friday, Gujarat during this time.
Good Friday also called Holy Friday is one of the sacred dates for the Christians. The day is a day of mourning where Christians follow the rituals to commemorate the event of Crucifixion of Jesus on this day.
The date of Good Friday marks the end of a 40 day period of fasting during Lent which tries to remember the agonies and pain which Jesus Christ went through while he spent his penance in the desert.
Holi
Festival of colours, Holi is celebrated with great fanfare in the Gujarat state of India. Falling on the full moon day in the month of Phalguna, Holi is a major Hindu festival and marks the agricultural season of the Rabi crop. Indian Holiday offers to give you online information on Holi festival in Gujarat, India.
Festival of Holi is celebrated with much gaiety and fanfare in the Gujarat district of India. The festival is marked by sprinkling of colored water and applying gulal on each other. Bonfire is also lit in the main squares of the villages, localities and colonies. People collect at the time of bonfire and celebrate the event, which is symbolic of the victory of good over evil by singing and dancing.
There are many stories associated with the origin of Holi. For some Holi marks the day when devotees of lord Vishnu, Bhakt Prahlad who was seated on the lap of demoness Holika was saved from the effect of the fire by God and instead the demoness got burnt. For others the festivals relate to the death of demon Putana at the hands of lord Krishna while some associate the festival with the worship of Karma, God of pleasure and destiny.
Holi is basically a harvest celebration, marking the end of winter and bonfires are lit marking the ending of evil. Dhuleti, which is celebrated on the next day, involves fasting, feasting and throwing of colour and water on each other.
Id-ul-Zuha
Situated near the Chenab River on the west coast of India, Gujarat is the most industrialized state in India and a land that abounds in enchanting tourist spots. A state steeped in tradition and rich cultural heritage, Gujarat also has an abundance of festivals and celebrations. The glory and grandeur of the land gets reflected aptly through the joyous celebration of these fairs and festivals in Gujarat. Indianholiday offers online information on Id-ul-Zuha (Bakri-Id) Gujarat.
The population of Gujarat is a mix of Hindus, Muslims and Jains, with the Muslims accounting for 19% of the total populace. Hence, most of the important Muslim festivals including the Id-ul-Zuha Festival is celebrated with equal fervor and gaiety in Gujarat as in the rest of India.
Though most Muslim festivals follow their own calendar, Id-ul_zuha or Bakri Id, as it is popularly known, is celebrated in February or March every year. The festival is celebrated from the 10th to the 12th day in the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah. Id-ul-Zuha (Bakri-Id) Gujarat coincides with the Haj pilgrimage in Mecca. Every year, when Haj pilgrims to the Mount of Mina make animal sacrifices as part of pilgrimage rituals, Muslims worldwide celebrate Id-ul-Zuha Festival.
Id-ul-Zuha (Bakri-Id) Gujarat is celebrated to commemorate the sacrifice of Hazrat (Prophet) Ibrahim, who, out of his own will agreed to kill his son at the behest of God. In celebration of this event, Muslims sacrifice one goat (Bakri) per family or per group of families. Prayers are held in moques, followed by feasting and rejoicing.
Islamic belief goes that in order to test Propeht Ibrahim’s faith, Allah (God) ordered him to sacrifice his son Ismail. Ibrahim agreed to do so but found it very difficult to supress his paternal instincts. So he put a blindfold over his eyes before putting Ismail on the altar at the Mount of Mina near Mecca. After performing the act he removed the bandage from his eyes, only to see his son standing in front of him, alive.Instaed, a slaughtered lamb lay on the altar.
During the Id-ul-Zuha (Bakri-Id) Festival in Gujarat, prayers are offered in mosques and thereafter, sacrificial meat is distributed after solemnizing the Id prayers. Special sweets and other delicacies are prepared for the festival and served to family and friends.
Every true Muslim who owns wealth equal to or more than 400 grams of gold or can afford two square meals a day, is expected to sacrifice an animal during Id-ul-Zuha (Bakri-Id) Gujarat. A goat, sheep, camel or any other four-legged animal can be slaughtered during any of the three days of the festival, and the meat should be distributed thereafter. The sacrificial offering gets divided into 3 parts – one for the self, another for frinds, and the third, most importantly for the poor and needy. The sacrfice needs to be offered any time before the afternoon of the third day.
Janmashtami Festival
Introduction To Janmashtami Festival
Janmashtami Festival in India is one of the main celebrations in India, where Lord Krishna's birth is celebrated nationwide. This festival bears historical and mythological importance in India. The festival is celebrated with pomp and grandeur and people from different parts of the country warmly welcomes the advent of the Lord.
Description of Janmashtami Festival
Janmashtami is popular as 'Gokulashtami' or 'Krishna Jayanti'. Lord Krishna is regarded as one of the main Gods among the Hindus. According to the mythology, there are various 'Yug' (phase) of Hindu mythology, and the birth of Sri Krishna took place in 'Dwapur Yug'. Sri Krishna came in this world to demolish the daemon Kansha, the king of Mathura. The birth occasion of Krishna is celebrated with the offerings that take place through out the night.
Lord Krishna is the incarnation of Lord Vishnu and he took birth to kill his maternal uncle Kansha. Lord Krishna was born of Devki, sister of Kansha. Kansha was aware of his death and so he killed other children of Devki. But as Kansha was destined to be killed by Devki's eighth son, so Krishna was handed over to Nandalal who had taken care of Krishna. The legend and the myths make a wonderful impact and beliefs on the Hindus and these strong beliefs are well evident in the glory and splendor of the occasion. People of Gujarat treat the occasion as a grand event and the celebration takes place in temples, personal houses and in the localities when all the females treat Lord Krishna as their own child. On the occasion different sweets, dishes are prepared to give honor to the God.
Time For Celebration of Janmashtami Festival
Janmashtami festival is celebrated all over India. The cities like Agra, Mathura, Brindavan, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Dwaraka, Mumbai, and other parts of India. Janmashtami depends on Hindu calendar but generally the day falls in the month of July or August.
Kutch Utsav
Known as the land of fairs and festivals, Gujarat is a vibrant and an exotic land and visited by large number of tourists every year. Kutch Utsav or Kutch Mahotsav is an important festival of Gujarat organized by the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Ltd. (TCGL). Indian Holiday offers to give you online information on Kutch Mahotsav in Gujarat, India.
Kutch Utsav or Kutch Mahotsav is celebrated every year in the month of February and March and involves an exotic tour of the Kutch region. The itinerary of this fair consists of guided tour of the important places like temples, beaches, historical monuments etc.
The Kutch Utsav tour includes travel, cultural exposure, entertainment etc.
The Kutch Utsav or the Kutch Mahotsav is celebrated near the days when Shivratri is celebrated. During the celebrations of Kutch Desert festival, colorfully attired dancers and music concerts are something to look forward to.
Maharishi Valmiki’s Birthday
Maharishi Valmiki is a sage poet and is popularly accredited to the writing of the oldest epic- the Ramayana. The Maharishi Valmiki’s Birthday Gujarat is celebrated at some places in Gujarat and is one of those fairs and festivals in Gujarat that revert back to the Indian cultural roots, that was at one point of time inseparably intertwined with religion.
However, the Ramayana like most other Indian scriptures was also originally part of the orature tradition that passed down stories, verses and hymns from one generation to another, from the guru to the disciple. And therefore, Ramayana is actually the result of a collective effort on the part of number of poets and sages, though it is only Valmiki’s name that has survived the clutches of time, to reach us.
Maharishi Valmiki’s Birthday in Gujarat India is celebrated in the month of October. His birthday is a holy day for the sect who prays and make offerings in his temples around India. Maharshi Valmiki was originally a ruthless and cruel robber who did not hesitate to kill people to rob them. However, under the influence of God Narada, the great follower of Lord Vishnu, he renounced his worldly unfair ways to spend time praying and preaching the name of the Lord.
Maharishi Valmiki’s Birthday Celebration in Gujarat includes reading out verses from Ramayana and worshiping the poet along with and also Rama. It is said, Valmiki gave shelter to Rama’s wife Sita in his ashram. She gave birth to twins Lav and Kush in the ashram and brought them up there. Lav and Kush at one point of time went to their father’s court and sang the Ramayana. Lord Rama himself was very pleased with the epic; though he did not know these boys were his own sons. Later however, he accompanied them to the ashram to meet Sita.
Mahavir Jayanti
Introduction
One of the important Fairs and Festivals in Gujarat is the Mahavir Jayanti, Gujarat. Celebrated throughout Gujarat it is to commemorate the birth anniversary of Mahavir who founded Jainism. One of the religious events of the Jains it is celebrated throughout Gujarat with all the proper rituals. Indianholiday.com offers online information on Mahavir Jayanti, Gujarat and other tourist attractions of Gujarat and other parts of India.
Time of Celebration
On the 13th day of the bright half month of Chaitra according to the Hindu solar Calendar, the Mahavir Jayanti, Gujarat is celebrated all over. It generally falls on the month of March and April. Jains during this time visit the sacred destinations and worship the Tirthankaras. The event is important in Gujarat as most of the Jain shrines are established here.
Description
For the Jains the celebration is all about quiet prayers and there is no revelry associated with it. The austere nature of the Jain religion is also maintained while celebrating the ritual. For the tourists, the Mahavir Jayanti,Gujarat in India is an interesting attraction as they get to worship Mahavir and follow the rituals as well as get a glimpse of the Jain shrines in India.
Mahavir was regarded as a religious reformer who went against rituals of Hinduism that existed in the later Vedic Times. He taught his followers to practice penance and abstinence and that according to him was the true path of salvation. Mahavir Jayanti, Gujarat celebrates the teachings and values which Mahavir had taught.
There are many sects in Jainism now like the Digambars and Svetambaras, Deravasis and Sthanakvasis. It is the Deravasis who visit temples and worship Mahavir. The Sthanakvasis on the other hand emphasize the internalization of the faith.
The Jain ascetics are totally against idol worship and they follow certain principles like they walk bare feet so that they do not crush insects under their shoes, wear muslin patches around the nose and mouth so as not to kill insects. In Gujarat the Mahavir Jayanti, Gujarat is marked with celebrations in Palitana which is a hill in Gujarat dotted with the most number of Jain shrines. During the Mahavir Jayanti, Gujarat, Jain pilgrims assemble here to offer their worship to the Mahavir.
Modhera Dance Festival
Introduction To Modhera Dance Festival
Modhera Dance Festival holds an eminent position among the festivals of Gujarat. Gujarat is a state where tradition and culture can be witnessed in various festivals that are celebrated in Gujarat Modhera Sun Temple is a popular seat of tourists where the sculptures on the walls show the rich heritage of the past. The Modhera Dance festival of Gujarat takes place in the backdrop of the sun Temple where classical dance get a new dimension.
Description of Modhera Dance Festival
The venue of Modhera Dance Festival, Gujarat is the Sun temple which is an important religious spot for Hindus. The temple dedicated to Sun God bears the traces of ancient art and architecture. To relive the past glory the Government of Gujarat organizes traditional dance festival every year. The colorful festival with all kinds of tradition performances makes the celebration a grand. Sun temple is the perfect destination where art and culture blends to form a rich heritage. Modhera is located in Mehasana district of Gujarat. Garba, the traditional dance of Gujarat is the main attraction. Apart from that, the other traditional dances like Kathakali, Kuchipuri, Bharatnatyam and Manipuri, other folk dance from different parts of the country are gathered to make the dance festival diverse and countrywide.
Time For Celebration of Modhera Dance Festival
Modhera Dance Festival of Gujarat is held in January every year. The dance festival of Gujarat is famous world wide. And in this festival tourist get the opportunity to experience the varieties of dances of ancient and contemporary India. The festival is celebrated for three days where different forms of dance from different state are performed.
Navratri
Introduction To Navratri
Navratri is one of the popular and well-known festivals in Gujarat. This festival is known as the festival of nine nights. In this festival Devi Shakti is worshipped to mark her mythological victory against the power of evil and the start of a reign of peace. This festival is considered to be the oldest festival of Gujarat. Garba and Navratri are interrelated. The colorful songs and dances of the festival heighten the spirit of the festival.
Description of Navratri
'Navratri' means 'nine nights'. It is a time for people overlook all their worries and engage in a carnival of song and dance. People re-enact the victory of Goddess Durga through their song and dance. Not only Gujarat, but other parts of India too celebrate the occasion with pomp and grandeur. Images of the mother goddess are worshipped in specially erected puja pandals. The evenings come alive with local cultural programs and the dance performances.
Apart from the festival, the local performances like 'Bhavai', 'Garba' and dancers with kumbh (pots) are the most attractive features of Navratri. During Navratri all the participants and the locals can be spotted in ethnic costumes. Females wear 'ghagra choli' and males wear 'dhoti kurta'.
The boys and girls irrespective of age, caste and creed enjoy the famous 'dandiya' or 'garba' dance where they dance wearing colorful clothes with sticks or dandiya to the folk music of Gujarat Navratri is a celebration of religious, cultural and devotional values. It makes people forget all their worries and enjoy the spirit of festival.
Time For Celebration of Navratri
Navratri is an eminent festival of Gujarat and is celebrated in the month of October when the worship of goddess Durga takes place. The celebration lasts for nine nights and each and every corner of the state takes on a different form during the celebration. Navratri is the festival of color.
Rath Yatra
Introduction To Rath Yatra
The theme of the Rath Yatra in Gujarat is different from that of Orissa. While the Rath Yatra in Puri, Orissa occurs on the day that Sri Jagannath is believed to have left for his summer vacation to a palace in the countryside, the Rath Yatra of Gujarat is celebrated with a completely different event in mind.
This festival crosses all barriers of caste and creed. All the devotees irrespective of religious differences take part and give this festival a secular tinge.
Description of Rath Yatra
Rath Yatra of Gujarat is associated with Lord Krishna. He was brought up by Nandalal of Gokul. Lord Krishna was invited by Kansha, the king of Mathura. Kansha was the maternal uncle of Lord Krishna and he was destined to be killed by Krishna. When Kansha threw an open challenge to Krishna, the latter went to Mathura. The journey that Krishna undertook by a chariot is now celebrated in the 'chariot festival' or the Rath Yatra in Gujarat. When Sri Krishna left his village, the beautifully decorated chariot was followed by playmates and Gopis of Gokul. In this journey towards the battle against evil, Krishna was accompanied by Balaram, his elder brother.
Still today the occasion is celebrated with beautifully decorated chariots with idols of Krishna, Balaram and Subhadra. In the present time the procession consists of devotees, music bands and bhajan mandalis. Devotees drawing the chariot are gripped with a devotional fever as they remember that auspicious day when Lord Krishna journeyed to Mathura on his chariot to destroy evil in the form of Kansha.
The procession is headed by the Mahant of Jaganath temple. The main themes and the significance of the day are the separation of Krishna from his friends and the commencement of a new journey of his life.
Time For Celebration of Rath Yatra
The celebration takes place in the month of either July or August. On the very day devotees from different corners of the state come and visit the place. Gujarat, with her unique tradition, celebrates the festival grandly.
Republic Day
Introduction
One of the most important events in Indian history is the day when the constitution of India came into force and that day in India is regarded as the Republic Day. It was on this day the doctrines of the Indian Constitution came into force and India became a Sovereign, Democratic and Republic state.
After years of struggle finally the Indian government was formed and India enjoyed its first taste of freedom from the colonial shackles. The Republic Day, Gujarat is regarded as a national holiday. This is one of the important fairs and festivals in Gujarat where the people of Gujarat celebrate their patriotic fervor along with other countrymen. Indianholiday.com offers online information on Republic Day, Gujarat and other tourist attractions of Gujarat and other parts of India.
Time of Celebration
Every year on 26th January, India celebrates its Republic Day through parades, rallies and colorful cultural programmes. On 26th January, 1950, Indian Constitution finally came into effect. To mark that day and to celebrate the democratic Republican status of India, Republic Day is celebrated on this date. 26th January is a national holiday all over India. Republic Day, Gujarat is also celebrated with much revelry and enthusiasm.
Description
On 26th January in India, Republic Day is celebrated all over. Every where including the major administrative units like the capital cities, district headquarters, sub divisions, Taluka and Panchayat celebrates the Republic Day, Gujarat with much revelry and fervor.
During the Republic Day, Gujarat a parade is held from the early morning when the Prabhat Pheris are organized. This is followed by homage to Mahatma Gandhi. Then in Delhi the parade is followed by sport events. The day is also celebrated by functions organized at the Raj Bhavan, at the District Magistrate’s House and also at the SDM’s house. The public buildings in the capital cities are illuminated as well as the administrative headquarters.
During the Republic Day, Gujarat the children from different schools participate. They present folk dances of different regions that show the colorful kaleidoscopic fabric of India. The parades in Delhi often showcase the newest advancements in technology and other sectors.
One of the most striking celebrations in the country is of Republic Day, Gujarat. You can get to see the parade of armed forces, folk dances of each state, streak of jet planes which leave behind the colored smoke. The President of India takes salute from the Armed Forces while in Gujarat and other states of India, the Governor takes the salute. A number of tourists come from all over the country to see the Republic Day, Gujarat celebrations.
Shamlaji Fair
Introduction To Shamlaji Fair
Shamlaji Fair, Gujarat is one of the main fairs in Gujarat. The fairs of Gujarat are quite exceptional; the fairs and the festivals that come about in the state are the true examples of India's rich heritage. The Shamlaji Fair or the Kartik Purnima Fair is one of the main events in Gujarat where all the tribes take part to make it a grand one.
Description of Shamlaji Fair
Shamlaji Fair of Gujarat is known as the Kartik Purnima Fair. The fair is celebrated by all the castes and communities of Gujarat; they are Garasias and Bhils who actively take part in the event. The celebration and the fair lasts for two weeks. The tribes mainly celebrate the fair where different stalls of local handicrafts and art and artifacts gives the tourists the opportunity to buy the local products that bear the significance of the place. The main festival is referred as the worship of the black deity named 'Kalio Bavji'.
Shamlaji is eminent for the Shamlaji Temple, Vaishnav Shrine. The temple bears all the traces of ancient architecture, according to the Archaeological Survey, the temple belongs to 11th century. All the fairs and festivals develop round the temple which shows the strong ethnic background of Shamlaji.
Apart from the fair, the auspicious bath in the river Meshwo is considered to be essential for the tourists for purgation. Tourists from different corners of the state and from neighboring states come and visit the holy destination of religion and culture.
Time For Celebration of Shamlaji Fair
Shamlaji Fair is held on the 'purnima' (full moon) of the month of 'Kartik' according to the local calendar, which falls in November. Tourists experience the true spiritual aura of Hindu culture and tradition in Gujarat.
Vautha No Melo
Introduction To Vautha No Melo
Vautha No Melo is the largest fair in Gujarat. The fair brings various local villagers close and that creates a record number of visitors in the fair. The Vautha No Mela takes place near the confluence of seven rivers. The mela or fair is an important contributor to the rural economy of Gujarat. The fair is named after Vautha where the rivers Vatrak and Sabarmati meet.
Description of Vautha No Melo
The fair holds mythological as well as economical importance to the state. The fair grounds spread across 3 square miles of land. It is believed by the locals that Lord Kartikeya, the son of Lord Shiva had visited the place. This incident gave rise to the festivities of the mela.
On the full moon night of November, that is the month of Kartik according to Hindu calendar, the grand fair of Gujarat starts. The site is famous as 'Saptasangam'; - a place of union of seven rivers. This place is the homeland of Saptarshi (Seven Sages). It is regarded as an auspicious spot with legendary significance.
Time For Celebration of Vautha No Melo
Vautha No Mela takes place in the month of Kartik according to the local calendar, which coincides with the month of November. The fair lasts for two to three days. Thousands of tourists flock to the fair for an experience that is entirely rustic.
Bhavnath Fair
Introduction To Bhavnath Fair
Bhavnath Mahadev Temple is located in the Junagarh district of Gujarat. The Bhavnath Fair is the main festival on the occasion of Shivaratri. The 'Mela' or the fair is the best place where the Hindu customs and beliefs are perceptible. The fair is the meeting place of various cultures. Gujarat is the place where 5000 years old Hindu tradition can be witnessed in the fair. The sages, the devotees, all gather to make the occasion ostentatious. Participation of all people from different strata creates a wonderful atmosphere, where the mela takes its true meaning.
Description of Bhavnath Fair
Bhavnath Fair of Gujarat takes place on the day of Maha Shivratri. On the very day, Bhavnath Mahadev temple is decorated and thousands of devotees across the country come to visit the fair and the festival. Fair is held on the adjacent ground of the temple where the sages from different corner of the country come to experience the holy occasion. The 'naga bavas' or naga sages move towards the temple on elephant's back to witness the maha puja. Shiva linga is worshipped and in the honor of the festival the fair is organized, which is now known nationwide. It is believed that Shiva himself had visited the shrine during the festival and this place is the abode of famous nine 'naths' of Hindu mythology. The sound of conch shell, drums and ululation create a pious ambience. The mela takes a holy shape with devotees, sages and spiritually elevated souls. The visitors are served free meals during the fair. In the fair different stalls give the visitors to buy the local handicrafts and other items.
Time For Celebration of Bhavnath Fair
Bhavnath fair is held during the Maha Shivratri festival of Hindus. The fair is famous and it is three days festival in the month of February. This fair is an important event which brings thousands of domestic as well as international tourists to the state.
Chitra Vichitra Fair
Held in the month of March, Chitra Vichitra fair is named after the sons of king Shantanu, Chitravirya and Vichitravirya and is an important festival of Gujarat. Celebrated after the Holi festival, Chitra Vichitra Fair is attended by large number of locals and tourists from across the country. Indian Holiday offers to give you online information on Chitra Vichitra Fair in Gujarat, India.
Largest tribal fair, Chitra Vichitra is celebrated in the village of Gunbhakhari in Sabarkanta district of Gujarat and is visited by large number of Bhils and Garasia tribes residing in the neighboring areas.
Main attraction of the fair is the magnificent temple overlooking the rivers Sabarmati, Akul and Vyakul.
With people dressed in traditional attire and display of traditional customs, Chitra Vichitra festival gives a chance to witness the social and customs of the Adivasis (tribal people).
Dang Darbar
One of the major tribal festivals of the Dang area, Dang Darbar Fair is held in the month of March every year. The Dang area is located in the Satpura hills and is surrounded by lush green forests. Indian Holiday offers to give you online information on Dang Darbar in Gujarat, India.
Dang Darbar Fair takes place before the colorful festival of Holi and focuses on the interesting lifestyle of the tribal people of the Dang area. The fair is held every year in the Ahwa district of Gujarat.
Dang Darbar is the perfect place to witness the lifestyle and cultural life of the native tribal people. The fair is started by the tribal chief who blesses the fair.
Kahalia and Tadpur the ancient tribal instruments are played during the Dang Darbar fair.
Dusshera/Vijay Dashami
Come September and an intangible bubbling excitement begins to charge the Indian air; it’s festival time again. The clear autumn sky smiles wide and large to summon people into the characteristic mad frenzy of celebration. Dusshera/Vijay Dashami Gujarat is the first big festival in the festival calendar of North India, and one of the most important fairs and festivals in Gujarat.
This festival falls on the 10th day of the waning moon during the Hindu month of Ashvin (around September-October). A fascinating collection of mythological legends and folklore are embroidered around Dussehra. It is believed that on this day, Rama, the hero of the great Hindu epic, Ramayana, killed the unrighteous demon Ravana, the 10-headed king of Lanka who had abducted Rama’s wife, Sita.
This victory is believed to have come after Lord Rama’s brother Lakshmana, along with an army of monkeys, fought a colossal battle that lasted 10 days. Rama, who was a devout worshipper of Durga (the Goddess of War, strength and destroyer of evil), prayed to her for the first nine days of battle, and killed the evil Ravana on the 10th day. He shot Ravana with a bow that pierced his navel. Out flowed the nectar of immortality that was stored in a pot in his navel, thus destroying his invincibility.
Ravana’s own brother Vibhishana (being the sensible one, he had switched sides) had divulged this secret to Rama. Dussehra is thus the festival that commemorates this triumph of Good over Evil. To this day Rama Lila (the enactment of the Ramayana, or literally the saga of Rama) is staged in towns and villages across the length and breadth of the country. The Ram Lila Ground at New Delhi is most famous for this and has been staging Ram Lila for the past 15 years or so.
According to another legend Dussehra is linked to Goddess Durga’s slaying of the buffalo-demon, Mahishasura. In Bengal the festival is known as Durga Puja and is the single most important festival for the Bengalis. The day of Dusshera is the same as Vijay Dashami- the day of emersion of the idol of Goddess Durga after four days of worship.
Dusshera/Vijay Dashami Celebration In Gujarat is characterized by Ram Lila and the burning of the effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna and Meghnath. Ram Lila is generally held in the evenings, and year after year, people flock in huge numbers to watch the saga unfold. In ancient times when it was considered demeaning for women to go up on stage, men performed the female roles and interestingly, this still happens in most parts of India.
Gandhi Jayanti
Gandhi Jayanti is the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation, and is celebrated with reverence all over the country. However, Mahatma Gandhi hailed from Gujarat and so Gandhi Jayanti celebrations in Gujarat acquire a special color, making it one of the most important fairs and festivals in Gujarat.
Gandhi, more populalrly knows as Gandhi ji, is the man who played a significant role in achieving independence for India from the British Empire with his ways of non-violence. Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, also known as 'Bapu' or 'Father of the nation', was born on the 2nd of October in 1869, in Porbunder, Gujrat; and that is the day when Gandhi Jayanti Gujarat is celebrated in Gujarat and also all over the country.
Gandhi ji was by profession a lawyer; he studied law in U.K and practiced as a lawyer in South Africa. But soon after, he left his profession and returned to India to join the Indian freedom-struggle.
Gandhi ji was a preacher of truth and 'Ahimsa'(non-violence) and started the 'Satyagraha' movement for the Indian freedom struggle. He believed in leading a simple and minimalist life and in 'Swadeshi'- the spirit of patriotism. The spirit of patriotism for him did not lie in the random killing of British officials, rather in the boycott of British manufactured goods, in the usage of Indian fabric, and in sticking to the roots of Indian philosophy of truth and non-violence.
The day is marked by prayer services and tributes all over India, especially at Raj Ghat, in New Delhi, where he was cremated. Popular celebration includes prayer meetings, commemorative ceremonies in different cities by colleges, local government institutions and socio-political institutions; the day is a national holiday.
Celebration of Gandhi Jayanti In Gujarat India reaches its peak at the Sabarmati Ashram, founded by him. His favorite song raghupati raghava is sung and prayer services are organized.
Guru Purnima
The day of full moon (known as Purnima), in the month of Ashadh (June-July) is traditionally celebrated as Guru Purnima by Hindus. Also known as Vyas Purnima, the day is celebrated in remembrance and veneration to sage Ved Vyas who is revered as the Adi (original) Guru of the Hindu Dharma; it is believed that Ved Vyas classified the Vedas, wrote the eighteen Puranas and the Mahabharata. Guru Purnima is one of the major fairs and festivals in Gujarat.
The Sanskrit root "Gu" means darkness or ignorance and "Ru" denotes the remover of that darkness. Therefore, one who removes ignorance which is a type of mental darkness is a Guru. Only he who removes our ultimate darkness, known as Maya, and who inspires and guides us on to the path of God-realization is the true Guru. The term Guru is nowadays also used to denote a teacher of any field.
The Guru played a very vital role in ancient India, when education system was characterized among the elite mostly by Guru Kulas or residence schools. Students who sought a particular Guru’s guidance and blessings had to go and stay with the Guru, sharing the same food as him and the roof. It is believed that when the student loses track, becomes despondent or simply runs out of steam, it is the Guru who is responsible for bringing him back on track. The aspirant is thus better able to obey the Guru if he understands the Guru's glory.
Therefore on the day of Guru Purnima in Gujarat India, disciples introspect, and present the guru with offerings and practice meditation, in reverence to the Guru in mind, remembering his action and speech; implicitly resolving to obey his unvoiced wishes, commands, serving him as one would God and lauding his glory and redemptive attributes. Guru Purnima Celebrations in Gujarat are carried out in ashrams as well as private households. Domestic celebrations are characterized by special offerings to the Guru, fasting, charity and so on.
The celebrations that go on at temples or ashrams are however more elaborate and grand in character. The Guru Purnima Gujarat Festival at Bochasan Mandir, is celebrated in the presence of Pramukh Swami Maharaj with much devotion and enthusiasm. The day begins with an assembly that goes on from 8.30 am to 12.00 noon. This assembly is marked by performances of bhajans and discourses by senior sadhus who emphasize and sing the glory of the Guru. The festival is finally crowned with Swamishri's blessings and darshan - where thousands offer their reverence by filing past Swamishri.
International Kite Festival
During the middle of January, the city of Ahmedabad in Gujarat break into a riot of colors as the International Kite Festival sets in. Kites of all shapes, sizes and hues cover up the expanse of the sky making for a rare spectacle.
The Myth Behind International Kite Festival
In fact, the international Kite Festival marks the end of the winter. Popular believe goes that during this time, the Gods who were asleep for the last six months, wake up and the thresholds of the heaven are opened. The faith translates into festivities one of its kind.
Celebration of International Kite Festival
The celebration inaugurates on 13 January every year and continues for 3 consecutive days from dawn to dusk. Days of preparation go into making the kites of every conceivable shape and size. The kite-lines are sharpened with mixtures of glue, ground glass and many more elements. The focus of the contest remains cutting the kite lines of others and thus emerging triumphant. Extensive researches and the innovative formulas and the consequent rivalry would hold anyone by surprise. The ear rending 'woh-katta' fills the air every time a kite-line is severed. The zeal and enthusiasm is unmatched.
A huge number of visitors pour into the city during the festival. Indianholiay.com, being a leading tour operator in India, arranges specially designed tour packages featuring International Kite Festival, which would give you charming insights into the life, style and culture of the old city.
Lakshmi Puja
On the third day of the festival of Diwali comes the most important day of Lakshmi Puja; a day that is entirely devoted to the propitiation of Goddess Lakshmi. And it is on this very day that the sun enters his second course and passes Libra, which is represented by the balance or scale. Lakshmi Puja Gujarat is one of the major fairs and festivals in Gujarat.
The sign of Libra is believed to have suggested the act balancing of account books and their closing that is performed on this day. Despite the fact that this day falls on an amavasya day it is regarded as the most auspicious.
The day of Lakshmi Puja In Gujarat India falls on the dark night of Amavasya. The strains of joyous sounds of bells and drums float from the temples as men invoke Goddess Laxmi the goddess of wealth and prosperity in a wondrous holy "pouring-in" of devotion amidst much ritual. The goddess Lakshmi is said to alight on earth in a ray of golden light to answer to the call of her devotees. It is believed that on this day goddess Lakshmi walks through the green fields and loiters through the bye-lanes and showers her blessings on man for plenty and prosperity.
Lakshmi Puja Celebration In Gujarat as elsewhere in North India, is expressed through the lighting of lamps, fireworks and crackers all over the city that illuminate the palaces of the wealthy as well as the lowly abodes of the poor.
Lakshmi Puja Gujarat or the worship of the goddess of wealth is the main event of Diwali festivities in North India. It is also believed that Goddess Lakshmi likes cleanliness, and she will visit the cleanest house first; so it is important to keep the house spotlessly clean on this night. This is also the reason why the broom is worshiped on this day with offerings of haldi and kumkum (turmeric and vermilion). Lamps are lit in the evening to welcome the goddess. They are believed to light up Her path.
Lakshmi Puja Gujarat is also considered as the beginning of the financial year for the trader community. Closing of old accounts and opening of new ones for the coming year are also an important part of Lakshmi Puja Gujarat.
Mahashivaratri
A land of fairs and Festivals, Gujarat state in western India is steeped in tradition and rich cultural heritage. Despite the various religious influences in the region, numerous fairs and festivals are celebrated in Gujarat with equal enthusiasm. The extent of celebrations is such that the region remains colorful all through the year, with several religious and regional fairs and festivals in Gujarat being held. Indianholiday offers online information on Mahashivaratri Gujarat.
Mahashivaratri Festival or the ‘Night of Shiva’ is celebrated with great devotion and religious fervor in honor of Lord Shiva – one of the deities of the Hindu Trinity. An important Hindu festival, Mahashivaratri is celebrated every year on the 13th night/14th day in the Krishna Paksha of the month of Maagh (according to Shalivahana) or Phalgun (according to Vikrama) in the Hindu calendar. This day corresponds to the month of February/March according to English Calendar.
One of the major festivals celebrated in Gujarat, Mahashivaratri Gujarat is marked by devotees observing day and night fast and performing ritual worship of the Shiva Lingam to appease Lord Shiva. Gujarat being dominated by a hefty Hindu population, Mahashivaratri Celebration in Gujarat is accompanied by great fervor and enthusiasm as in the rest of India.
Several interesting legends and stories are associated with the festival of Mahashivaratri. One of the popular legends mentions that Mahashivaratri marks the wedding day of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. According to another legend, it was on the auspicious day of Shivaratri that Lord Shiva performed the ‘Tandava’ Dance – the dance of primal creation, preservation and destruction. Yet another legend stated in Linga Purana states that Mahashivaratri was the day when the Lord manifested himself in the form of a Linga. Hence, the day came to be considered as one of the most auspicious days for Shiva devotees who celebrate it as Mahashivaratri – the Grand Night of Shiva.
A number of traditions and customs related to Mahashivaratri Festival in Gujarat India are dutifully followed by the devotees of Lord Shiva. During Mahashivaratri Gujarat, devotees observe severe fast in honor of Lord Shiva. While some follow a diet of only fruits and milk, many followers observe Shivaratri without consuming even a drop of water for the entire day. There is a strong belief among devotees that sincere worship of Lord Shiva on the auspicious occasion of Mahashivaratri Gujarat absolves a person of all sins and liberates him from the cycle of birth and death.
Mahashivaratri Festival is believed to be especially auspicious for women. While married women pray to the Lord for the overall wellbeing of husbands and families, unmarried women pray for a husband like Lord Shiva, who is regarded as the ideal husband.
During Mahashivaratri Gujarat, devotees wake up early in the morning and take a ritual bath. After getting decked in new clothes, the worshippers visit the nearest Shiva Temple to give ritual bath to the Shiva Lingam with milk, yoghurt, honey, ghee, sugar and water, etc. Priests perform ritual ‘pooja’ amidst chants of “Om Namah Shivaya” and ringing of temple bells.
May Day
Introduction
One of the several holidays celebrated in Gujarat is May Day, Gujarat. One of the traditional summer holidays in pre Christian European culture it is associated with Maypole. In India however May Day signifies celebrations related to the labor movement. Indianholiday.com offers online information on May Day, Gujarat and other fairs and festivals of Gujarat and other parts of India.
Time of Celebration
Celebrated on the first of May every year, every country has its own significance related to May Day. The May Day, Gujarat is also celebrated on the first day of the month of May. On your tour to Gujarat in India you can get to see the celebration of May Day in Gujarat.
Description
On May Day various socialist and labor movement celebrations were also conducted. So more than the pagan associations, May Day, Gujarat is associated with the political events. May Day is celebrated as International Worker’s Day or Labor Day. It is to commemorate the execution of Haymarket Martyrs who were arrested during the Haymarket Riot of 1886. This occurred in Chicago. On this day a number of labor unions across United States went on a strike and on May 4th a bomb blast by a revolutionist killed a dozen people. Though this took place in May 4, the event had started on 1st May. The association of May Day with communism has made it quite popular.
The protests during the May Day were not immediately successful. It was after the protests that eight hour work days were introduced. The labor leaders and socialists initiated the protests and helped in making the movement successful. One of the significant events in Soviet Union, May Day is also popular in India. During this day in Soviet Union one can see a May Day parade of tanks, rockets. In India, May Day, Gujarat is a holiday. Most of the industrial houses remain closed during this time.
The May Day, remembers the day when in 1884 the Federation of Organized Trades and Labor Unions demanded a eight hour work day in U.S.A. This led to Haymarket Riot and finally the protest yielded results.
On this day a number of labor organizations throughout the country carry their processions and often organize different competitions for children of the labor class. In Gujarat during May Day, Gujarat you can find the protests and rallies of different trade unions who demand to protect the interests of the laborers.
Muharram
Introduction
One of the most important fairs and festivals in India is the Muharram, Gujarat. Tourists from all over love the colorful festivals of Gujarat which have the quintessential Gujarati flavor in them. The Tazias of Muharram, Gujarat are one of the much awaited events of this festival in Gujarat. On your tour to Gujarat in India you can get a glimpse of this colorful festival. Indianholiday.com offers online information on Muharram, Gujarat and other Fairs and Festivals in Gujarat and other parts India. On your tour to Gujarat in India you can be a part of this colorful festival.
Time of Celebration
The festival of Muharram, Gujarat is not a celebration of a particular day but it is one month that marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar. Muharram is one of the four months that is regarded as a holy month according to the Islamic calendar. The Muharram is one of the sacred festivals in Gujarat which is a celebration of the followers of the Islamic community.
Description
During Muharram, Gujarat and also in other parts of the world you can find that people are fasting during the months of Muharram. According to the Prophet, “The best fasts after the fasts of Ramadan are those of the month of Muharram.” However though fasting in Muharram is not necessary yet if the followers fast on these days they feel that Allah Almighty will surely reward them and grant their wish. If some one fasts on the tenth day of the Muharram then it is called Ashura that is supposed to bring great rewards.
During the Muharram, Gujarat the people takes out processions with the colorful replicas of Imam Hussein’s tomb. The procession of Muharram is believed to be a march of the mourners who cover the distance barefoot. There are wrestlers and dancers as well who depict the sequences of Karbala.
There are certain rituals which the followers of Islam observe during the month of Muharram. During the day of Muharram, Gujarat you can see them observing a fast, doing charitable deeds and visit the pious Ulema. It is on the day of Muharram, Gujrat that Muslims apply surma on their eyes, take their bath and visit the sacred shrines.
Ram Navami Festival
Introduction
Ram Navami Festival, Gujarat is the celebration of the birth of Lord Rama. One of the most revered deities in India, Lord Rama’s birthday is celebrated throughout and also in Gujarat. It is believed that he lived during 8th and 7th century B.C. The epic which Valmiki wrote was called Ramayana from where we get to know about the life of Lord Rama. Indianholiday.com offers online information on Ram Navami Festival, Gujarat and other tourist attractions of Gujarat and other parts India. On your tour to Gujarat in India you can be a part of this colorful festival.
Time of Celebration
Every year on the ninth day of the first fortnight of Chaitra month the birth of Lord Rama is celebrated in India and all over Gujarat. It is believed that Lord Rama reincarnated on this day of the month to destroy evil and establish the basic virtues of humanity. This is one of the important Fairs and Festivals in Gujarat.
Description
One of the national and cultural festivals, Ram Navami Festival, Gujarat is quite popular across the state of Gujarat. It is believed that Ram Navami Festival inspires the people to reach the highest pedestal and achieve higher moral values.
An avatar of Lord Vishnu, Lord Rama is one of the most revered Gods. According to the Puranas, Lord Brahma was receiving complains that one of the demons called Ravana was destroying the earth with his evil powers. So Lord Brahma sent Lord Vishnu in the guise of Lord Rama as the son of Dasratha in Ayodhya. One of the legendary figures in India it was Lord Rama who vanquished Lord Ravana and saved the earth from the evil powers of Ravana. So every year his birth is celebrated amidst much revelry. On the ninth day of the new moon in April this festival is celebrated all over India and Ram Navami is also quite famous in Gujarat.
Ram Navami is one of the sacred festivals and is celebrated in Gujarat as well. Held in month of April, people religiously follow the rituals of Ram Navami. In Gujarat people can fast or can have vegetables which are not cooked in turmeric, garlic or onion.
Throughout you can get to hear Bhajans during Ram Navami in Gujarat. The houses are cleaned and pictures of Lord Rama, Lakshman, Sita and Hanuman are worshipped with flowers. One of the thalis contains Prasad while the other has roli, apun, rice, water, flowers, a bell and a conch.
Tarnetar Fair
Introduction to Tarnetar Fair
Tarnetar Fair, Gujarat is a popular fair in the state of Gujarat. This fair does not remain within the boundary of state but crosses it to reach the followers and the devotees. That shows the importance and the significance of the fiesta. The fair of Tarnetar bears mythological significances. Mahabharata, the epic of Hindus bears various significances of the fair and the place. The fair is the best place where tourists can experience the rich heritage of India and the colorful vivacity that lies in every celebration.
Description of Tarnetar Fair
Tarnetar Fair is an important festival in Gujarat. The festival originated from the days of Mahabharata. The three day festival of Swayamvar is organized every year. Young girls and boys dress in colorful clothes select their groom or bride respectively. This fair and the fiesta show the old tradition of choosing life partners of Hindu society. The festival is named after Tarnetar village that bears an oldest Shiva temple. The fair is an important event of the village. Ras Garba and Hudo are the main attractions of the fair where young girls and boys participate and add life to the social event. This event bears social relevancies than its religious ones.
Apart from this there is another distinctive feature of the fair is 'Tarnetar Chhatri' which is the colorful art and embroidery of Gujarat. These umbrellas bear intricate mirror work, embroidery and lacework.
Time For Celebration of Tarnetar Fair
The fair tales place in the month of August-September. According to the local calendar the fourth, fifth and sixth days of Shukla Paksha of the month. The fair and its social values add a different dimension. The relevancy and its focused objective have made the fair more significant and well-known.
