Do you want to make every day a celebration? Gujarat is where you can have the most fun. Gujarat is known as the "land of festivals," and its residents certainly know how to enjoy life to the fullest.
The beauty of the state's rich history and customs is best displayed via the many festivals held throughout the year. Men in the most brilliant turbans and women in sequin lehengas swaying to the catchiest sounds fill the streets of the state.
Gujarat has become one of India's most visited states thanks to its vibrant festivals, rich heritage, and delectable cuisine. In Gujarat, there are a few hidden jewels that we were unaware of. For people interested in living and working in Gujarat, this article provides an overview of Holidays in Gujarat. We will be discussing the following:
About Gujarat
Gujarat has everything a national or international tourist is looking for, including a vast choice of sites and activities. Gujarat is also a popular tourist destination in India because of its strong logistical connectivity, outstanding communication facilities, appropriate health infrastructure, round-the-clock electricity supply even in the most remote areas, safety and security, and, above all, the people's kind demeanor.
Gujarat's diverse terrain is a whole package in and of itself. A long and picturesque coastline coexists with the Kutch White Desert. In Dhola Veera and Lothal, there are ancient monuments dating back to the Harappan period. Gujarat is home to historic caves, stupas, monasteries, temples, and monuments that showcase the Indo-Sarcenic architectural style, which combines Islamic and Hindu components.
Ahmedabad, the capital of Gujarat, is India's first UNESCO World Heritage City. Gujarat is also a wonderful location for eco-tourists. It is home to endangered species such as the Asiatic Lion and Indian Wild Ass, which are found nowhere else in India.
List of Holidays in Gujarat 2021
Makar Sankranti
This is a prominent Hindu festival that takes place in India on or around January 14th. The day is known by many different names, and distinct customs are followed in different Indian states.
Regardless of the differences, it is a harvest and thanksgiving festival that celebrates the arrival of spring, the end of the traditional farming season, and the harvesting of the first harvest food. It is unique among Hindu holidays in that the date is determined by the sun rather than the moon's phases. In the Western calendar, this implies it occurs on January 14th.
This date marks the beginning of Uttarayana, the period after the winter equinox when the sun begins to move northward. The equinoxes migrate by 50 seconds each year due to the wobble of the Earth's axis, therefore this date is now December 21st in the Western Calendar.
This demonstrates the festival's long history: it was held on December 31st a thousand years ago. Uttarayana is also seen as a lucky season, with big events taking place during this time.
Makara Sankranthi is the beginning of the Sun's northward journey as it enters the zodiac sign of Makara or Capricorn. It's a celebration for both young and old people.
The International Kite Festival in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, is a big element of the festivities. The sky are awash in kites, and kite makers travel from all over the world to create and fly multicolored kites of various shapes and sizes. Kites with paper lamps illuminate the sky with light at night.
Republic Day
India celebrates Republic Day on January 26th.
This public holiday, often known as R-Day, is one of four national holidays that is usually observed on this date. Indian Republic Day's History: Republic Day is an important national holiday in India that honors the birth of the Indian Constitution.
The approval of the constitution on January 26, 1950, signified the conclusion of Lord Mountbatten's tenure as Governor-General of India and marked the beginning of India's full independence from Britain. The Indian Constitution was drafted over the course of two years and eleven months by the Drafting Committee, which was led by Dr. BR Ambedkar.
The date of the adoption of the constitution was chosen since it was on January 26th, 1930, that the Indian National Congress proclaimed Purna Swaraj, the Declaration of Indian Independence.
In July 1947, Britain approved the Indian Independence Act, and on August 15th, 1947, India became a Commonwealth dominion. Indian Independence Day, which is also a national holiday, commemorates this event.
Maha Shivratri
Maha Shivaratri is a well-known Hindu festival commemorating Lord Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction and regeneration.
Every lunar month, on the 13th night and 14th day, Shivaratri is observed. The Shivaratri in the month of Falgun (Phalguna), the Hindu calendar's last month, is known as Maha Shivaratri, which means "the Great Night of Shiva." It occurs just before Spring arrives, usually in February or March according to the Western calendar.
It is observed throughout India as a public holiday in most states, as well as in Mauritius and Nepal. The festival, which commemorates the end of winter and the beginning of summer, is a prominent Hindu celebration. It is extremely important in Hinduism's Shaivism tradition, which worships Shiva as its major deity.
The Maha Shivaratri is recorded in multiple Puranas (Hindu Literature), with several variants of the celebration and references to Shiva's iconography.
Shiva is claimed to have completed the Tandava Nritya, or primordial creation, preservation, and destruction, on Maha Shivaratri night. This, believers believe, rescued the world from disaster. Maha Shivaratri, according to Hindu academics, was the day when Shiva drank deadly negativity to safeguard the world.
Maha Shivratri commemorates the overcoming of darkness and ignorance in life and in the globe. In contrast to other festivals, it is held at night and is a solemn occasion. Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva remarried on Shivaratri.
Offerings of Bael (Bel Tree) leaves to Lord Shiva, all-day fasting, and an all-night vigil are the main features of the celebration. "Om Namah Shivaya," Shiva's sacred mantra, is recited throughout the day in Shiva temples on Maha Shivratri. At homes and temples, special Puja is performed.
Many Hindus assemble for vibrant dance festivals, some of which can be seen for miles, because of their connection to Shiva's "heavenly dance."
The festival is an international event that takes place all over the world. On Maha Shivratri, government offices and educational institutions in India will be closed.
In India, celebrations span the breadth of the land, with huge celebrations at ancient temples such as Annamalaiyar in Tamil Nadu, the Mahakaleshwar Mandir in Madhya Pradesh, Umananda Temple in Assam, Bhavnath Talethi in Gujarat, Mallikarjuna Temple in Andhra Pradesh to name a few.
In Kashmir, the historic seat of Shaivism, MahaShivratri is known locally as “Herath” from a story that showcases the power of devotion to overcome persecution. The local custom was to worship a Shivalinga carved out of snow, but the then-Afghan Governor outlawed celebrations during the month of Magha and forced them to be moved to the summer.
It miraculously snowed in the summer that year, causing tremendous amazement or "hairat," the Persian word for shock.
Holi
Holi, the Hindu 'festival of colors,' takes place on the last full moon day of the Hindu luni-solar calendar month, which is normally in early March.
Holi is also known as Doljatra or Dola Purnima in various places. It is known as Fagu Purnima in Nepal. In the South American republics of Guyana and Suriname, it is also a public holiday known as Phagwah. Holi Dahan, the day before Holi, is considered a holiday in various states.
History of Holi: Holi was originally a celebration to celebrate the arrival of spring, good crops, and the land's fertility. It was initially mentioned in a poetry from the fourth century.
The 7th century Sanskrit play "Ratnavali," authored by the Indian monarch Harsha, described Holi.
“Behold the splendour of the huge cupid celebration, which arouses curiosity as the townspeople dance at the touch of brownish water thrown... Everything is painted reddish red and rendered dusty by mounds of perfumed powder blown all about.”
It is better recognized as a symbolic memorial of a Hindu mythology legend.
According to legend, a king once despised his son, Prince Prahlada, for worshiping Lord Vishnu. He tries to kill the prince multiple times but each time failed.
Finally, the king's sister Holika, who is reputed to be impervious to fire, sits inside a fire with the boy. The prince, on the other hand, is unharmed, while his aunt perishes in the fire.
On the eve of Holi, large bonfires are lit as a symbolic image of Holika's cremation, as part of the Holi Dahan. Holi is celebrated in Vrindavan and Mathura, two cities with which Lord Krishna had a close relationship.
Good Friday
On the Friday before Easter, many countries observe Good Friday as a national holiday. The crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ are commemorated on this day. Good Friday may fall on a different date in some nations that follow the Orthodox calendar.
The death and later resurrection of Jesus Christ, whom Christians believe is the Son of God and whose life and teachings are the cornerstone of Christianity, are the most significant events in Christianity.
After the Last Supper, Jesus was arrested, tried, and sentenced to death in the Garden of Gethsemane. He was then bound and affixed to a big wooden cross by his wrists and feet and allowed to die. This is why the cross is employed as a Christian faith symbol.
It is a day of grief on Good Friday. Christians reflect on Jesus' suffering and death on the cross at special Good Friday services, and what this means for their faith.
Cheti Chand
The Sindhi New Year, which falls on the second day of the Sindhi month of Chet, is a regional holiday.
This means it normally happens in late March or early April on the Gregorian calendar, and it usually falls on the same day as Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra and Ugadi in the Deccan region of India, which is celebrated as the Telugu and Kannada New Year.
Cheti Chand traditions: For Sindhi Hindus, the Cheti Chand celebration heralds the arrival of spring and harvest, as well as the commencement of the Hindu New Year. It is considered a lucky day for business because it signals the start of the new fiscal year.
It also commemorates the birth of Uderolal in the year 1007, when the Sindhis prayed to Varuna, the Sindhu river's god, to deliver them from a dictatorial monarch named Mirkhshah. Uderolal took the appearance of Jhulelal, a warrior and old man who persuaded Mirkhshah that Muslims and Hindus also deserve religious freedom.
Jhulelal, a bearded figure clutching a book and a mala (string of beads) and seated on a fish, became the Sindhi people's main deity. Sufi Muslims venerate him and identify him with Lal Shahbaz Qalandar, a Sufi saint.
Fairs, feasts, and processions with images of Jhulelal and other Hindu deities are held during the Cheti Chand festival. Sindhi diaspora all over the world also commemorate it.
Ambedkar's Jayanti
For Indian officials and civilians, Ambedkar Jayanti is a significant day. Every year on April 14, the holiday is observed. The theme of Ambedkar Jayanti is enjoyment and introspection. Ambedkar Jayanti is a public holiday in India that encourages people to reflect on the country's social progress.
Ambedkar's Life Story: Bhimrao Baba Saheb Ambedkar was an Indian politician and economist who was instrumental in the development of the Indian constitution.
Ambedkar fought to abolish India's caste system as a proponent of widespread human rights. The London School of Economics has a close relationship with Ambedkar. Ambedkar went on to become India's first law minister.
Early Years: Ambedkar was the son of an Indian Army officer. Despite his father's rank as an officer, Ambedkar and his family were members of India's lowest caste. Untouchability was a term used to describe Ambedkar.
During his upbringing, Ambedkar endured a lot of discrimination because he was an Untouchable. Despite his major disadvantages, Ambedkar worked extremely hard in school. Ambedkar's diligence resulted in him receiving great marks on the high school admission exams.
Untouchables rarely receive the opportunity to attend high school, therefore this was a significant milestone in Ambedkar's life. Ambedkar's accomplishment was recognized in the Untouchable community where he lived, with presents and warm words. This was only the beginning of Ambedkar's rise to prominence.
Ram Navami
Rama is thought to be an incarnation of the god Vishnu, as well as a wise and virtuous ruler whose reign (the "Rama Rajya") brought immense prosperity to the land. The festival is also observed by Hindus in Nepal and around the world.
The holiday is also known as "Vaishnava," after the Hindu faith that worships Vishnu in all of his various manifestations and forms. The Shaivas and the Shaktas, who are similarly called for the gods they worship, are the other two major Hindu factions.
In some regions of India, celebrations begin nine days before Ram Navami and end with it, and the period leading up to it is also known as a "spring festival," because spring arrives in India around that time of year.
Some Hindus believe Rama was born on January 10th, 5114 B.C., based on astrological evidence, whereas traditional Hindus believe he was born on the 9th of Chaitra, about midday, millions of years ago.
Devotees will chant appropriate mantras all day to commemorate the occasion.
They would also bring flowers and fruits to Rama and go to temples or family shrines to worship to him at midday. There will also be processions of his statues, cradle rocking of tiny versions of his statues, consumption of a sweet, peppered jaggery beverage, fasting till sunset, and feasting during the evening.
Some people also give a little Rama idol a bath in water, just like a newborn infant. Ram Navami is also thought to commemorate the day Rama married his sole wife, Sita, in southern India, and processions would include both of their images.
Mahavir Jayanti
In Jainism, Mahavir Jayanti is the most important holy holiday. Because this is a gazetted holiday, government offices and most businesses will be closed.
Mahavir Jayanti's History: The festival is observed on the 13th day of the waxing (rising) half of the Hindu month of Caitra, which falls between late March and early April according to the Gregorian calendar.
Mahavir Jayanti commemorates the birth of Mahavira, the Buddha's contemporary and the 24th and final Tirthankara (great sages).
Mahavira, also known as Vardhamana, was born between 599 and 615 BC. Lord Mahavira was born in 615 BC according to the Digambar school of Jainism, whereas the Swetambaras think He was born in 599 BC. Both groups, however, believe Mahavira to be the son of Siddhartha and Trisala.
Devananda, the wife of a Brahmin named Rishabhdeva, allegedly conceived him, but the gods shifted the embryo to Trisala's womb.
The expecting woman was said to have had 14 auspicious dreams, according to the Swetambara sect. (The Digambara sect claims there was 16 dreams.) Astrologers deduced from these dreams that the infant will either be an emperor or a Teerthankar.
He was an ascetic for over a decade, travelling around, begging for food, and wearing very little. Then, before his death, he attained enlightenment, became a Tirthankara, and taught for 30 years.
Mahavira is the primary prophet in the modern ascetic religion of Jainism.
Jainism is a religion practiced by around 3.5 million people. They have a nonviolent approach to all living things. Some people wear face masks to avoid accidentally killing an insect while breathing in.
What is the significance of Mahavir Jayanti?
Mahavir Jayanti is a fasting and prayer-filled occasion. Mahavira was born near the current town of Patna in the eastern state of Bihar, where the celebration is highly celebrated. Calcutta's Parasnatha temple has a big celebration.
Ramazan / Idu’l Fitr
Ramazan (often referred to as Ramadan) is the Islamic fasting month that occurs in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. This fasting time could last 29 or 30 days, depending on the crescent moon cycles.
Self-discipline, sacrifice, charity and empathy for the less fortunate, isolation from earthly objects and wants, and closeness to God are among the many teaching lessons and purposes of the fast, which begins at sunrise and concludes at dusk.
The completion of Ramazan is commemorated by the two- or three-day celebration of Idu'l Fitr, which follows the fasting days. Today is the first day of Shawwal, the next Islamic calendar month.
On this day, no Muslim is allowed to fast because it is a "breaking of the fast" and a celebration.
Following his departure from Mecca, the Islamic prophet Muhammad built Idu'l Fitr in Madinah. He allegedly came into a group of folks who were merrily celebrating two special days with amusement and fun. He used this event to claim that the Almighty had given his people the day of Idu'l Fitr to rejoice.
The night before Idu'l Fitr is known as Chaand ki Raat, or "Moon Night." Many individuals use this night to finish their holiday shopping and prepare for the next day. On this holiday, a special prayer is offered in an open congregational setting in two parts, with an additional six incantations.
Following a sermon and prayers, Muslims in India celebrate with gift-giving, feasts, bazaars, mehndi, visits to family members, and charitable donations. The entire point of the celebration is to show joy, gratitude, forgiveness, gratitude to God, and memory of God.
Maharshi Parasuram Jayanti
Maharshi Parasuram Jayanti, the Hindu tradition's birth anniversary celebration of Maharshi Parasuram, Vishnu's sixth avatar, is an important holiday in regions of India.
The holiday's date is determined by the Hindu lunar calendar, however it usually falls in April or May on the Gregorian calendar.
Parasuram is well-known in Hindu literature, and many interesting mythology have been written about him. His father, for example, is supposed to have owned a "Kama Dhenu" cow that could feed an infinite number of people. When the local monarch learned of this magical cow, he approached Parasuram's father and requested if he might have it. When he was refused, he became enraged and killed both the cow and Parasuram's father. Parasuram then promised vengeance against the selfish king and his Kshatriya subjects.
Maharshi Parasuram Jayanti is also the day when the Mahabharata is said to have started. As a result, it is the date of birth of both the legendary writing and the legendary figure in it.
Many Hindus fast on Parasuram Jayanti in the hopes of receiving "princely comforts." This is also the day when Hindus like starting new projects and acquiring valuable goods, such as gold ornaments.
Finally, many people will pray in Parasuram temples, which may be found all over India.
Eid al-Adha
The Muslim community around the world celebrates Eid al-Adha Bakri-Id every year. On this day, the distribution of meat among family and the recitation of the takbir are two of the most important rituals.
Before Abraham forwent his son, God presented him with a male goat to offer as a substitute. The male goat was sacrificed by dividing it into three spares, as per the God's commands. One-third of the share was donated to the destitute, with the remainder going to friends and relations. The remaining share was kept by Abraham's family.
When does Eid al-Adha fall this year?
According to the Islamic lunar calendar, the event is held on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah. The date of the festival will change every year according to the international calendar. The festival is known by various names around the world. Bakr-Eid is the name for Eid al-Adha in Urdu and Hindi.
Eid al-Adha is known in Uzbekistan as Qurbon Hayiti. It is known as Idul Azha in Bangladesh. It's known as Kurbanir Id in Bengali. Eid al-Adha is known in Egypt as Id ul Baqarah.
In the year 2022, when is Eid al-Adha?
The festival will be held on July 10th and 11th, 2022. Tuesday is the date. The festival holiday begins on the earlier day's sundown and ends on the same day, according to the Muslim calendar. The festival date differs because the international calendar is a solar calendar. The Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle.
As a result, Eid al-Adha is normally celebrated on the same day every year. The date of Eid al-Adha will vary depending on whether or not the moon has been farsighted in different places.
Independence Day
The 15th of August is usually observed as India's Independence Day. India's National Day has arrived. This public holiday, often known as 'I-Day,' commemorates India's independence from the United Kingdom in 1947.
In India, this festival is a dry day, meaning no alcohol can be sold.
Indian Independence Day's History: In 1619, the British established their first outpost in India, at Surat on the northwestern coast.
The East India Company had established three more permanent trading stations in Madras, Bombay, and Calcutta by the end of the century.
The British continued to grow their influence in the region until they controlled much of what is now India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh by the mid-nineteenth century.
Following a mutiny by Indian soldiers in northern India in 1857, the British government transferred all political power from the East India Company to the Crown. The British took direct control of the majority of India and administered the rest through treaties with local kings.
The appointment of Indian Councillors to advise the British viceroy and the construction of provincial councils with Indian members were the first steps toward self-government in British India in the late nineteenth century.
Mohandas K. Gandhi, an Indian nationalist, developed the Indian National Congress political party into a popular movement in 1920 to protest British colonial rule. To gain independence, the party employed parliamentary and nonviolent opposition, as well as non-cooperation.
Others, such Subhash Chandra Bose, took a military approach to the struggle. The movement resulted in the subcontinent's independence from the British Empire and the establishment of India and Pakistan.
As a result, India became a Commonwealth dominion on August 15, 1947. The British divided British India into East and West Pakistan due to tensions between Hindus and Muslims.
India became a Commonwealth republic after promulgating its constitution on January 26, 1950, which is currently celebrated as Republic Day.
Parsi New Year
The Parsi New Year is an Indian regional holiday observed on August 17th. It's also known as 'Jamshedi Navroz,' after Jamshed, the legendary King of Persia who founded the Parsi Calendar, and Navroz, which means 'new day.'
Parsi New Year's History: Parsis practice Zoroastrianism, one of the world's oldest monotheistic religions. It was founded some 3,500 years ago in ancient Iran by the Prophet Zarathustra.
It was the official religion of Persia (now Iran) from 650 BCE until the birth of Islam in the 7th century, and it was one of the most important religions in the ancient world for over 1000 years.
When the Islamic troops attacked Persia, many Zoroastrians fled to India and Pakistan, settling in places like Gujarat. There are around 2.6 million Zoroastrians worldwide today, with the Parsis ('Parsi' is Gujarati for Persian) in India constituting the largest single community.
The Fasli/Bastnai calendar, which placed the beginning day of the year on the Spring Equinox, generally March 21st, was used by Zoroastrians in Iran and other regions of the Middle East to celebrate the Persian New Year. Despite not being Zoroastrians, this event, known as Nowruz, is nevertheless observed by many peoples and cultures in the region.
The Parsis, on the other hand, celebrate the new year according to the Shahenshahi calendar, which does not take leap years into account, hence the festival has migrated 200 days from its original date of the vernal equinox.
What is the Parsi New Year like?
The Parsi New Year is observed in a similar manner to Nowruz, with a focus on the renewal that a new year offers, such as cleaning the house, donning new clothes, giving presents, and making charity donations.
Muharram
The Muslim community around the world celebrates Muharram as New Year's Day. Shias, on the other hand, grieve on this day, while Sunnis fast for the full day.
The Festival's Importance: Hussain Ibn Ali, the son of Ali and the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, died in the Karbala battle, and the Shia Muslim world mourns his death. Karbala is a well-known pilgrimage site in Iraq. In 680 AD, Hussain Ibn Ali was assassinated in Karbala.
He battled the troops of Yazid I till the end and was killed in the fight. The Day of Ashura, which falls on the 10th day of Muharram, commemorates Hussain's valiant sacrifice.
The Day of Ashura is extremely significant to Muslims since it is said that Moses and his followers defeated the Egyptian Pharaoh on this day.
How Is Muharram Celebrated?
Muharram is the Shia Muslim community's commemoration and grief of Hazrat Imam Hussain's martyrdom, which begins on the first night of Muharram and lasts for the next two months and eight days. The first ten days of the event are given more weight.
On the first day of Muharram, the community wears black clothing and prays. The colour black is associated with grief. Shia Muslims march through the streets on the ninth day.
On the streets, they stroll barefoot. As an act of mourning for Hussain, they sing and suppurate loudly. The Muharram holiday in 2022 will be marked in the same way.
Raksha Bandhan
Rakhi Purnima is another name for this ancient Hindu event. On the full moon of the Hindu month 'Shravana,' it is commemorated. Depending on the day of the week it falls on, it is a public holiday in various parts of India.
Raksha Bandhan is a festival that honors the relationship between brothers and sisters. Because the theme of sibling love and duty is universal, this event is popular across India and transcends its Hindu roots.
The sister and brother will assemble with their family on Raksha Bandhan morning to commemorate their bond. The sister ties a rakhi (thread) on her brother's right wrist in front of a lamp. This represents their emotional tie and the brother's promise to safeguard his sister.
Rakhis can also be used to commemorate various friendships and partnerships among neighbors.
Krishna Janmashtami
Krishna Janmashtami, also known as Gokulashtami, is a Hindu festival commemorating Lord Krishna's birth. It occurs in the Hindu month of Sravana, whereas in the Gregorian calendar, it occurs in the month of May. The date of Gokulashtami in 2022 is August 19th.
Krishna Janmashtami Observances: Hindus all across the world commemorate Krishna Janmashtami over the course of two to three days. 'Krishna Lilas' are drama-dance enactments of Lord Krishna's life performed throughout the festival. This is followed by all-night vigils with devotional song singing, fasting, and a party the next day with freshly prepared sweets and delicacies distributed to all.
Ganesh Chaturthi
In Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Orissa, Puducherry, and Tamil Nadu, Ganesh Chaturthi is usually observed as a public holiday.
When does Samvatsari fall?
On Shukla Panchami (5th day) of the Jain calendar month of Bhadrapada, Savatsari is a regional public holiday in Gujarat, India. Ganesh Chaturthi is usually celebrated on the same day. The Gregorian calendar places it between the middle of August and the beginning of September.
Savatsari traditions include: The Jain calendar's holiest day is Savatsari (which means "Annual Day" or "Forgiveness Day"). It takes place on the last day of 'Parva Paryushana,' the Shwetambara sect of Jainism's most important Jain holiday.
On this day, Jains beg forgiveness from all living beings for sins made deliberately or unknowingly. They also extend forgiveness to those who have wronged them. Kshama Yachna Divas (apology-seeking day), Ahimsa Divas (non-violence day), and Daya Divas are some of the other names for the day (kindness day).
The poor are given alms, and a Jina (great teacher) picture is ceremoniously carried through the streets. The believers undertake a community confession, and letters are sent asking for pardon and the eradication of all negative feelings related to conscious or unconscious wrongdoings in the previous year.
Jains say "Michachhami Dukkadam" to their friends on Samvatsari. "I want your forgiveness if I have offended you in any way, consciously or inadvertently, in thought, word, or deed," it says.
Paryushana: The term 'Paryushana' means 'to stay in one spot,' and it refers to a period of introspection and remorse for a Jain devotee. This was originally primarily a monastic discipline. Eight days of intense fasting, repentance, and pujas make up this holiday. Monks are frequently invited to provide lessons from the Jain scriptures.
Jainism is an ancient Indian religion that offers all sentient creatures a path to spiritual purity and enlightenment via disciplined nonviolence. Jains are strict vegetarians who want to live as little as possible on the planet's resources.
Gandhi's Jayanti
Gandhi Jayanti is a national holiday in India commemorating the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, the renowned Indian liberation warrior known as the "Father of the Nation" by many Indians.
Every year on October 2nd, it is commemorated. It is one of India's three officially proclaimed national holidays, and it is observed across the country.
Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was born on October 2nd, 1869, in Gujarat, then known as Porbandar, British India.
Gandhi was a great political and spiritual leader in India who spent his life by accepting and practicing truth, nonviolence, vegetarianism, simplicity, and confidence in God. He was a founder of the Satyagraha movement, which advocated for nonviolent resistance to tyranny through mass civil disobedience.
In 1914, South Africa gave him the honorific title Mahatma, which means "high-souled" in Sanskrit.
His efforts inspired movements for civil rights and freedom around the world, and they ultimately to India's independence. Many political figures around the world, including Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King Jr., found inspiration in him.
What is the significance of Gandhi Jayanti?
Prayer services are held all around India on this day, particularly at Raj Ghat, Gandhi's tomb in New Delhi, where he was cremated. Prayer gatherings and remembrance rituals are held in numerous cities by colleges, local government institutions, and socio-political institutions on this day.
On the themes of honoring peace, nonviolence, and Gandhi's contribution in the Indian Freedom Struggle, painting and essay competitions are organised, and awards are awarded for projects in schools and the community.
Raghupathi Raghava Rajaram, Gandhi's favorite devotional hymn, is frequently sung in his honor. In India, this festival is a dry day, meaning no alcohol can be sold.
Gandhi's international significance and fame are reflected in the International Day of Nonviolence, which is observed on his birthday all across the world.
Dussehra
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most important Hindu festivals celebrated in the country. It is observed at the conclusion of Navratri, the date of which varies each year. This event will be commemorated on the 10th day of Kartik, according to the Hindu calendar.
Dussehra is a Hindu festival commemorating the victory of Hindu God Rama over the evil Ravana, the monarch of Lanka. Processions across the country transport statues of Durga, Saraswati, Ganesha, Lakshmi, and others to neighboring rivers or oceans, where they are immersed. In addition, effigies of Ravana are burned to symbolize the triumph of good over evil, and fireworks are lit to mark the occasion. Preparations for the Diwali or Deepavali festival have already begun.
Dussehra's Importance: Every year, the holiday of Dussehra is celebrated with great passion and devotion. People from all over the country participate in the event in their own unique way. The ten-headed Ravana was killed by Lord Rama on this day.
In Hinduism, Vijayadashami is an auspicious holiday that commemorates the triumph of good over evil. Every region of the country has its own distinctive celebrations.
What Happens During Dussehra?
The celebration of Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is observed in diverse ways around the country. People in some areas participate in public processions, while others participate in Ram Leela. Ravan Dahan is held in a few different cities. The festival's most important components are exploding crackers and dining. On this day, numerous cities across India host colorful exhibitions and fairs. Furthermore, many begin enacting the entire Ramayana ten days before the Dussehra celebration. During the Dussehra holidays in 2022, the celebrations will remain the same.
Muhammad's Birthday
Muslims celebrate Mawlid in Rabiulawal, the third month of the Muslim calendar.
This day, also known as 'Milad un Nabi,' is commemorated as a public holiday in many nations with a large Muslim population since it honors the birth of the founder of Islam and the proclamer of the Quran.
Shias commemorate the occasion on the 17th of the month, whereas Sunnis commemorate it on the 12th. Some Sunni Islam factions, such as Wahhabi and Salafi, do not observe Mawlid, which means it is not a national holiday in Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
The date in the Gregorian calendar will fluctuate each year because the Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles. Because the Islamic calendar is 11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar, this holiday will come twice in some years.
Sardar Patel's Birthday
On October 31st, the Indian state of Gujrat observes Sardar Patel's birthday as a regional public holiday. This holiday honors India's first Deputy Prime Minister, who was born on this day in 1875.
Sardar Patel's Birthday in History: On October 31, 1875, Vallabhbhai Jhaverbhai Patel was born in Nadiad, a hamlet in modern-day Gujarat. He returned to India in 1913 after obtaining his law degree in England to open a law business in Gujarat.
He was an outspoken opponent of British rule in India who entered politics after hearing Mahatma Gandhi speak. Patel climbed through the ranks of the Indian National Congress, eventually becoming its President in 1931 and receiving the title Sardar, which means "chief" in Hindi, Urdu, and Persian.
Patel became India's first Home Minister and Deputy Prime Minister after the country's independence in 1947. Patel was instrumental in the post-independence integration of over 500 princely states under the Indian Dominion.
He acquired the title "Iron Man of India" for his uncompromising commitment to national integration.
Diwali (Deepavali)
Diwali, also known as Deepawali, is an annual festival of lights celebrated in India, particularly in the north, west, and east. The event honors good triumphing over evil.
Diwali or Deepavali's Importance: People light up their homes and businesses during the Diwali festival. Goddess Lakshmi is worshiped for wisdom and money, whereas Lord Ganesh is worshiped for prosperity and welfare. The celebration, which normally takes place in November or October, commemorates Lord Rama's homecoming from 14 years of exile. In many sections of the country, the celebration is held for five days straight.
It is without a doubt the most well-known Indian holiday, which is regarded as a life celebration. The festival marks the start of the New Year in a few sections of the country. Deepavali is a five-day event that follows the following schedule:
• For most Indian enterprises, the first day marks the start of a new fiscal year.
• The second day is the day of cleaning, when the business class worships Goddess Lakshmi for wealth. People bathe with oil and put on new clothes.
• The new moon occurs on the third day.
• The fourth day is the Kartika Shudda Padyami, which is the formal day of the Deepavali festival.
• The festival's fifth and final day honours the bond between sisters and brothers.
What is the significance of Deepavali/Diwali?
As previously stated, the holiday is celebrated for up to five days. Small clay lamps illuminated with oil or electric lights will be used to decorate houses and establishments. Sweets are exchanged. In numerous villages and towns, fairs will be held.
Because traditional lunar calendars can be interpreted in a variety of ways, the holiday is observed on different dates in different parts of the country. People in Tamil Nadu, for example, celebrate Deepavali in the Tamil month of Aippasi.
Vikram Samvat New Year
The Hindu and Sikh communities in many parts of the Indian subcontinent use the Vikram Samvat calendar system. It is based on lunar months and solar sidereal years. While it is Nepal's official calendar, it is also used as a regional calendar in numerous Indian states, particularly in the west, north, and central regions.
The first day of the Vikram Samvat calendar in the year 2022 is Tuesday, October 25. This day is also a regional public holiday in Gujarat, where it is traditionally held on the day following the Diwali celebration.
This day falls on the first day of the Hindu calendar month of Kartik, which is the eighth month in the Hindu calendar and has a new moon.
The typical new year's day, however, is the first day of Chaitra, which corresponds to April in the Gregorian calendar.
The Vikram Samvat Calendar System has a long history. The Vikram Samvat calendar system dates back to the "Vikrama" era, which may be dated back to an inscription dating from 842 CE. There is also an inscription related with King Vikramaditya that dates back to 971.
Many historians disagree, believing that it was King Chandragupta II who bestowed the title of Vikramaditya on himself and renamed the period "Vikrama Samvat."
Bhai Dooj
Bhai Dooj is a Hindu lunar calendar public holiday observed in five Indian states on the day following New Year's Day. The festival falls in either October or November on the Gregorian Calendar. In different parts of India, Bhai Dooj is known by different names, and in northern India, it is part of the Diwali festival.
Bhai Dooj is a festival that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters and brothers exchange gifts, with brothers frequently presenting small quantities of money to sisters and sisters placing a red "tika" spot on their brothers' hair.
On this day, sisters invite their brothers to a feast with unique festive foods like "basundi poori." Basundi is sweet, extra-thick milk porridge, while "poori" refers to the addition of fruits, nutmeg, and cardamon. Brothers promise to defend their sisters in special ceremonies, and sisters pray for a happy life for their brothers.
On this day, family reunions include more than just siblings and sisters. Major public ceremonies are held throughout India, with those in West Bengal being particularly enormous and colorful.
Guru Nanak's Jayanti
Guru Nanak Jayanti is a holiday commemorating Nanak, the first Sikh Guru's birthday. Guru Nanak's Prakash Utsau is another name for it.
While Guru Nanak Jayanti is a Sikh holiday, it is celebrated by a wide range of Indian demographics, including Hindus and secular individuals. Of course, because Sikhs make up the majority of the population in Punjab, it is a particularly significant event.
Guru Nanak Jayanti is a time for joy and celebration, but it also serves to highlight Guru Nanak's teachings. During the month of Katak, the holiday begins on the full moon day. Guru Nanak Jayanti is observed on the Gregorian calendar in October or November, depending on the lunar calendar.
Celebratory Activities: Sikhs and other Indians participate in a variety of activities to commemorate Guru Nanak's life and teachings.
Akhand Path: A series of readings are performed at important venues in major Sikh areas before the start of Guru Nanak Jayanti.
This event, known as Akhand Path, lasts 48 hours. Some of the most important poems from Sikhism's holy text, Guru Granth Sahib, are chanted during Akhand Path. Sikhs also recite prayers at specific times. Japji Sahid and Sidh-Ghost are the most popular prayers for this holiday.
Nagarkitan: Sikhs take part in Nagarkitan, a vibrant procession that attracts tourists from all over the world, the day before the festival. The Five Beloved Ones and the Sikh flag lead the procession. There are also musicians, choreographers, and martial artists in the march. The streets where the parade takes place are frequently adorned with banners and floral arrangements.
Langar: On the full moon day of the month of Katak, persons who observe Guru Nanak Jayanti can enjoy a free community lunch with their friends and family members. Sikhs attend several evening prayer sessions after this lunch.
Christmas
On December 25, India celebrates Christmas Day, which is one of the most popular Christian holidays in the country.
While Christianity is thought to have arrived in India as early as A.D. 52, when St. Thomas is said to have evangelized and been killed in the southern portions of the subcontinent, Christmas as we know it did not come until the 1500s and after.
In India today, there are around 24 million Christians, with the majority living in the northeastern hill area, the tiny coastal state of Goa, and the southern states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. However, this represents only 2.3 percent of India's 1.5 billion population, and Christmas is rarely observed in central and northern India.
Nonetheless, Christmas is observed in locations with a high Christian population and is also observed by non-Christians who live in those areas.
Midnight Christmas Eve services are particularly traditional for Roman Catholics in India, as well as various other denominations. Following the liturgy, the congregation will enjoy a huge feast, including real Indian curry dishes, and gifts will be shared. Many churches also decorate their buildings with poinsettias and have a candlelight service at midnight.
Instead of Christmas lights illuminating buildings in South India, little clay lamps are frequently placed on flat rooftops to symbolize Jesus as the Light of the World. The Bhil ethnic community in Northwest India goes caroling for a week to neighboring villages to retell the Christmas tale in song to everyone they meet.
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Key Takeaways
- The Makar Sankranti Kite Festival, held in January, is a global event in which tourists and residents alike enjoy themselves. Gujarati cuisine, which is predominantly vegetarian, deserves special notice because of its international acclaim. People who visit Gujarat fall in love with the state's charisma since life is a celebration here.
- Gujarat is said to be one of the top five Indian states in terms of GSDP at constant prices, accounting for around 8% of India's GDP. From 2001 to 2014, it was led by Chief Minister Narendra Modi, who later won the election to become India's Prime Minister.
- The Rann Utsav is held at the famous Rann of Kutch. The Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited hosts the Utsav/fest every year in February and March with the goal of promoting tourism in Gujarat's Kutch region. The dry, empty Rann comes alive with all sorts of fascinating sights and noises during a six-day festival held on the Rann.
- Gujarat's Mela is a fantastic animal trade festival. As strange as it may sound, this is where you'll find various ornamented and painted camels and donkeys. This isn't simply a logical assumption; many people consider this event to be more religious than Diwali because it occurs at the confluence of seven holy rivers.
- Dahi handi breaking ceremony, Dhol thumping, and the incredibly real and sparkling garba dance performances are just a few of Gujarat's world-famous celebrations and customs. Gujarati festivals will be incomplete without the above-mentioned very traditional, characteristic rites from the state.
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Rhema Hans
