Fair and Festivals

Festivals 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. Festivals all over the country 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 Indian celebrations. these are joyous affairs - a time for prayer and pageantry, music and feasting. In India, festivals are marked by a 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