Indian Festivals

Mar/Apr
Mahavir Jayanti : The Jain festival commemorates the birth of Mahavira, the founder of Jainism.

Ramanavami : Hindu temples all over India celebrates the birth of Rama. In the week leading up to Ramanavami, the Ramayana is widely read and performed.

Easter : The Christian holiday marks the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Apr/May

Buddha Jayanti : This triple blessed festival celebrates Buddha's birth, enlightenment and attainment of nirvana.

Eid Milad un Nabi : This Islamic festival celebrates the birth of the Prophet Mohammed.

June/July

Rath Yatra (Car festival) : Lord Jagannath's great temple chariot makes its stately journey from his temple in Puri (Orissa) to during this Hindu festival.

July/Aug

Naag Panchami : This Hindu festival is dedicated to Ananta, the serpent upon whose coils Vishnu rested between universes. Snakes are believed to have power over the monsoon rainfall and keep evil away from homes.

Raksha Bandhan : On the full moon day girls fix amulets known as rakhis o the wrists of their (not necessarily blood-related) brothers to protect them in the coming year. The brothers reciprocate with gifts. Some people also worship the Vedic sea god Varuna.