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| Top 10 Biggest Festivals in India |
India is celebrated for its vast cultural heritage and the vibrancy of its festivals. Here are the top 10 biggest festivals in India, celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor across the country:
1. Diwali (Deepavali)
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a significant festival that symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and virtue over wickedness. It commemorates Lord Rama's victorious return to Ayodhya after vanquishing Ravana. The festivities include illuminating homes with lamps and candles, setting off fireworks, and exchanging sweets and presents. Diwali ranks among the biggest festivals in India.
2. Holi
Holi, known as the Festival of Colors, marks the onset of spring and symbolizes the triumph of virtue over vice, drawing from the myth of Holika and Prahlad. The festivities include the exuberant tossing of colored powders and water, alongside singing, dancing, and the enjoyment of traditional delicacies. Holi is among the biggest festivals celebrated in India.
3. Durga Puja
Durga Puja's Significance: Predominantly observed in West Bengal, this festival commemorates Goddess Durga's triumph over the buffalo demon, Mahishasura. Celebrations include intricate pandals (temporary installations), cultural events, and age-old rituals. Durga Puja ranks among the biggest festivals in India.
4. Navratri
Navratri is a nine-night festival that honors Goddess Durga in her nine divine forms. The celebrations include fasting, participating in traditional dances like Garba and Dandiya, and singing devotional songs. Navratri is among the biggest festivals celebrated in India.
5. Ganesh Chaturthi
Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated as the birthday of Lord Ganesha, the deity with an elephant head who symbolizes wisdom and prosperity. The festivities include installing idols of Ganesha, offering prayers, and carrying out processions that culminate in the immersion of the idols in water. Ganesh Chaturthi is among the biggest festivals celebrated in India.
6. EidulFitr
Eid ul-Fitr's Significance: It signifies the conclusion of Ramadan, the sacred Islamic month of fasting. Celebrations include special prayers, feasting, the giving of alms (Zakat), and social gatherings. Eid ul-Fitr is one of the biggest festivals in India.
7. Eid ul Adha
Eid ul-Adha holds great significance as it honors the readiness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God's command. The festival is marked by special prayers, the ritual sacrifice of animals, and the charitable act of distributing meat to those in need. Eid ul-Adha is one of the biggest festivals in India.
8. Raksha Bandhan
Raksha Bandhan is a festival that honors the special relationship between brothers and sisters. On this day, sisters tie a rakhi, a sacred thread, on their brothers' wrists as a symbol of protection. The celebration includes the exchange of gifts and vows of mutual protection and care. Raksha Bandhan ranks among the biggest festivals in India.
9. Pongal
Pongal is a significant harvest festival in Tamil Nadu that honors the Sun God. The festivities include preparing the traditional Pongal dish, performing folk dances, and conducting cattle races. Pongal is among the biggest festivals celebrated in India.
10. Onam
Onam is a significant harvest festival in Kerala, marking the return of the legendary King Mahabali. The festivities include creating floral designs (Pookalam), engaging in boat races, performing traditional dances, and indulging in the lavish Onam feast known as Sadya. Onam is one of the biggest festivals in India.
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