Fair and Festivals in North India are an intrinsic part of the Indian way of life, a golden thread that runs through its cultural fabric.
Given the size of India, the vast diversity of its people, religions, cultures, languages and terrain, it is not surprising that there are a variety of festivals being celebrated all the year round.
The traditions and cultures of celebrating a particular festival differs not only from state to state but also from the hilly region to the plains.
Festivity brings alive the spirit of the people staying in the northern part of India.
The all time fertile land of five rivers, the land of the dare devil Sikh community has many festivals such as religious, annual, agricultural, etc.
People all over the North India celebrate the coming of the seasons and harvest time. Aspects of fertility and renewal are closely linked to many of these festivals.
Festivals are the occasions when houses are cleaned and whitewashed. They occur at different times and vary in their celebrations.
Religious festivals, the feast of saints, prophets, god and gurus are the most important of North Indian celebrations. These are joyous affairs - a time for prayer and pageantry, music and feasting.
Fairs and Festivals in North India are marked by warmth of participation. Colour and festivity also provide an occasion for shopping when overnight small markets appear from nowhere. These sell trinkets, local souvenirs and colourful apparel.
Dance and music are essential ingredients. Exotic delicacies are a culinary delight. Gay crowds fill the streets, squirting coloured water on people regardless of age, caste or creed. Greetings and sweets are exchanged among friends and relatives.
|
