In April, India celebrates several festivals across different regions and cultures. Here are some of the notable festivals celebrated in April:
- Baisakhi (Punjab): Baisakhi, also known as Vaisakhi, is a harvest festival celebrated mainly in the state of Punjab. It marks the Sikh New Year and the formation of Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. People celebrate with vibrant processions, traditional dances like Bhangra and Gidda, and special prayers in gurudwaras.
- Bihu (Assam): Bihu is the Assamese New Year celebrated with great enthusiasm in Assam. It is a cultural festival comprising three different Bihu festivals – Rongali Bihu (Bohag Bihu), Bhogali Bihu (Magh Bihu), and Kangali Bihu (Kati Bihu). People engage in traditional folk dances, music, feasting, and community gatherings during this time.
- Vishu (Kerala): Vishu is the traditional New Year festival of Kerala celebrated with much fervor. It marks the beginning of the Malayalam calendar. People wake up to see ‘Vishukkani’, an arrangement of auspicious items, and visit temples to seek blessings. It’s a time for family gatherings, feasting, and cultural performances.
- Bohag Bihu (Assam): Also known as Rongali Bihu, Bohag Bihu is the most important among the three Bihu festivals celebrated in Assam. It signifies the beginning of the Assamese New Year and the advent of spring. The festival is marked by traditional dances, music, feasting, and exchange of gifts.
- Ram Navami: Ram Navami is a Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Rama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is observed with special prayers, bhajans (devotional songs), processions, and readings from the Ramayana across India, particularly in North India.
- Chithirai Festival (Tamil Nadu): The Chithirai Festival is celebrated in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, to commemorate the wedding of Lord Sundareswarar (Shiva) and Goddess Meenakshi (Parvati). The festival lasts for a month and involves colorful processions, temple rituals, and cultural events.
These are just a few of the festivals celebrated in India during April, showcasing the diverse cultural heritage of the country. Each festival has its unique rituals, customs, and significance, making them an integral part of India’s cultural tapestry.