Gujarat is known as the land of festivals. It is
popular through out India as well as the world for its spirit of
festivity. Apart from the festival celebrated in the entire nation,
there are a host of other festivals uniquely associated with the state.
These traditional festivals have been celebrated in the region since
time immemorial. People observe these festivals strictly as they still
adhere to their age old customs and traditions. They are proud of their
rich heritage and it is visible from the manner they celebrate. One of
the major festivals celebrated here is Navratri.
Bhadra Purnima
Bhadra Purnima is one of the biggest festivals of Gujarat, popularly
known as the Ambaji Bhadra Purnima. This is because the festival is
celebrated at Ambaji, a village which derives its name from the shrine
located here. The village is situated at the foothills of Mount
Aravalli.
Modhera Dance Festival
Modhera dance festival is one of the major festivals organized in the
state of Gujarat. It is primarily a dance festival and showcases the
various traditional dance forms of the region.
Kutch Mahotsav
Kutch Mahotsav serves as the guided tour of the Kutch region of
Gujarat. It is organized by the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat and lasts
for six day. This tour takes you around the venerated places in Kutch.
Rath Yatra
Rath Yatra is a huge festival celebrated in Gujarat. Rath means chariot
and Yatra means journey. As the name suggests, during the festival, huge
wooden floats are prepared and the idols of Lord Krishna, Lord Balaram
and Goddess Subhadra are placed in them.
Dangs Darbar
Dangs Darbar is an annual festival celebrated in the Dangs district,
located in the Saputara Hills of India. The district is inhabited by the
tribal people, who have lived in the region's woods and highlands since
times memorial. This makes Dangs Darbar, essentially a tribal festival
of Gujarat.
Navratri
Navratri is the prime festival of Gujarat. The state is known for its
lavish celebrations and fortitude, during the festival. It is celebrated
not only in Gujarat but in other parts of the country as well. Huge
arrangements are done for Navratri. Even the state government makes
arrangements for the people to enjoy the occasion completely. The
mammoth celebrations are a part of the nine day festival before
Dussehra. It is celebrated to worship the nine manifestations of Mother
Goddess. During the nine days, people observe fasts and visit temples to
pray to the Goddess.
In the night, the festive mood completely sweeps off everybody. The
young and old celebrate the festival alike. The main attraction of the
festival is Dandia Ras and Garba. These are the traditional dance forms
of the region. People dance to the tunes of drum beats and folk songs in
merriment. The Dandia Ras is performed in groups by huge crowds, at open
grounds. The clashing sound of the Dandia sticks is music to ears. The
festival is a true blend of devotion, dance and drum beats. The dance
continues all the night long with great zeal.
 |
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
