Festivals in Pune are an integral part of people’s life. They portray the rich cultural heritage of the city. Pune the land of diverse culture and traditions, celebrates many traditional, religious, state and national festivals.
Ganesh Chaturthi
This festival in honor of the extremely generous God of wisdom, the elephant – headed Ganesha, is celebrated with great vigor and enthusiasm. The son of Shiva and Parvati is widely admired and loved and is reflected in the grandeur of the festival. It is celebrated on a large scale in Maharashtra, The festival was given momentum by Bal Gangadhar Tilak to spread the message of the freedom struggle and to challenge the British who had banned public assemblies. Lord Ganesha is worshipped with immense passion and devotion for the 10 days that the festival lasts. This 10 day Hindu festival in August / September reaches a climax when large idols of Ganesha are immersed in the sea.
Diwali
The festival of lights, Diwali or Deepawali symbolizes the victory of good over evil and the lifting of the spiritual darkness that envelops the soul. The festival commemorates Lord Rama’s return to his kingdom, Adyodhya after completing his 14 years of exile. The word Deepawali which means rows of lighted diyas (earthern lamps), brings a glow to the humblest home or the grandest houses. The whole country displays a twinkling glow of the oil lamps, inviting the Goddess of Prosperity, Lakshmi, to enter their homes and bring them good fortune, happiness and wealth. The festive occasion also marks the beginning of the Hindu new year.
Navratri
The Navaratri (nine nights) festival which marks the onset of autumn is celebrated in different ways all over the country. It is a festival of worship, dance and music and is celebrated from the first to ninth date of Ashwin Shukla Paksha of the Hindu Calendar for the worship of Goddess Durga. The festival signifies Rama’s victory over Ravana in North and Central India. The last day, Vijay Dashmi is considered very auspicious to start new venture both in business and academics. People celebrate Navratri by dancing to the traditional garba and dandia dances. The presiding deity of the celebration is Goddess Amba and every evening a special Arti is offered to her to invoke her blessings.
Eid
Eid is derived from the Arabic word ‘oud’ or ‘the return’ to signify, well, the return of Eid each year. The festival is significant as much for its timing as for its religious implications. It is celebrated after the fasting month of Ramzan (the ninth month of the Muslim year), on the first day of the Shavval month of the Hijri year (Muslim year). It is believed that the Koran was revealed to Prophet Mohammed in the month of Ramzan. ‘Ramz’ means to burn, and fasting is considered to burn down ones sins. It is a joyous occasion. It celebrates discipline and kindness and strives to establish a semblance of equality in our crazy chaotic cosmos. Eid is also an occasion for family reunions.
Holi
Holi, the festival of colors is celebrated on the day after the full moon in early March every year. This festival is not only celebrated in Pune but all over the country with equal joy. This festival marks the end of winter season and the beginning of the spring season. It is also a celebration of the triumph of good over evil. All participate in this festival and play with colors. Dancing, singing and merry making are an integral part of Holi. Holi celebration begins with lighting up of bonfire on the Holi eve. People rub ‘gulal’ and ‘abeer’ on each others’ faces and cheer up saying, “bura na maano Holi hai”. Holi also gives a wonderful chance to send blessings and love to dear ones wrapped in a special Holi gift.
Baisakhi
Baisakhi, marks the beginning of New Year, particularly in the northern part of India. Considered a holy day, the devout celebrate the Baisakhi with a dip in the holy rivers just around the break of dawn. Baisakhi is celebrated on April 13th. For on this day, they commence cutting their harvest. The fields can be seen full of nature’s bounty. Dressed in their typical folk attire, both men and women, celebrate the day with Bhangra and Gidda. Sweets are distributed, old enmities are forgiven and life is full of joy, merriment and everyone seems to belong.
Tags: Baisakhi, Diwali, Eid, Fair, Festivals, Ganesh Chaturthi, Holi, Navratri, Pune
