FESTIVALS OF RAJASTHAN

FESTIVALS OF RAJASTHAN

SHRAVAN MONTH 

Festivals and events celebrated in Rajasthan during the month of Shravan, particularly focusing on the Krishna Paksha (Waning Moon Phase) and Shukla Paksha (Waxing Moon Phase).

BHADRAPADA MONTH

Festivals and fairs during the Bhadrapada month.

AASHVIN MONTH

Festivals and rituals during the Aashvin month.

KARTIKA MONTH

Festivals and events during the Kartika month.

MAGH MONTH

Festivals and events during the Magh month.

FALGUN MONTH

Festivals and events during the month of Falgun.

CHAITRA MONTH

Festivals and events during the month of Chaitra, presented in a tabular format under the headings Krishna Paksha and Shukla Paksha:

VAISAKHA MONTH

Festivals and events during the month of Vaisakha.

JYAESTHA MONTH

Festivals and events during the month of Jyaestha.

ASHADHA MONTH

Festivals and events during the month of Ashadha.

FESTIVALS OF THE MUSLIM COMMUNITY

Origins of Islam and the Hijri Calendar

Prophet Mohammed, the founder of Islam, was born in Mecca in 570 AD (Saudi Arabia). In 622 AD, he migrated from Mecca to Medina, an event known as Hijrat. This migration marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar, also called the Hijri calendar.

The Hijri calendar is lunar-based, meaning it follows the phases of the moon, but unlike some other lunar calendars, it does not include an extra month (Adhik Mas) to adjust the lunar year to the solar year. This results in the Islamic calendar being 10-12 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar, causing Islamic festivals to shift each year.

Key Islamic Festivals and Events

Muharram

• Muharram is considered one of the holiest months in Islam, marking the beginning of the Islamic year. The 10th day of Muharram, known as Ashura, is of great significance. It commemorates the martyrdom of Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Mohammed and the son of Ali, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. In Rajasthan, as in other parts of India, Tajia processions are carried out to remember this sacrifice. Tajia refers to a symbolic representation of Hussain’s tomb, and the processions reflect grief and mourning.
• Additionally, Urs (Fair) of Saiyad Fakhruddin is celebrated on the 27th day of Muharram at Galiakot in Dungarpur district. Saiyad Fakhruddin is regarded as the religious head of the Daudi-Bohra Sect, a prominent community within Islam.

Safar

• The month of Safar is observed as a period of remembrance. A significant feast takes place 40 days after the death anniversary of Hussain, known as Arba’een. In Rajasthan, this is observed on the 20th day of Safar, with gatherings and prayers commemorating the martyrs of Karbala.

Rabi-ul-Awwal

• The 12th day of Rabi-ul-Awwal holds dual significance in Islamic history. It marks both the birth and death anniversary of Prophet Mohammed. His birth is celebrated as Id-Ul-Miladul-Nabi or Milad-un-Nabi, a day when Muslims reflect on his teachings and message. The day is also known as Baravafat, which commemorates the death of the Prophet. Special gatherings and prayers are organized in mosques, with people remembering his life and contributions to Islam.

Jamat-Us-Sani

• The 8th day of this month marks the birth anniversary of Khawaja Moinuddin Chishti, one of the most revered Sufi saints in India. Khawaja Moinuddin Chishti was born in Sanjari (Persia, Iran) and later moved to India during the reign of Prithvi Raj Chauhan, establishing his spiritual center in Ajmer. The Ajmer Sharif Dargah, where he is buried, remains a significant pilgrimage site, attracting devotees from across the country and the world.

Rajjab

• From the 1st to the 6th day of Rajjab, the Urs of Khawaja Moinuddin Chishti is celebrated with great fervor at Ajmer Sharif. This period marks the death anniversary of the saint, and the festivities conclude on the 6th day with the ‘Kul Ki Rasma’, a prayer ceremony. The Ghori family of Bhilwara traditionally begins the proceedings of the Urs. On the 9th day, a special ceremony known as Bade Kul Ki Rasma takes place.
• The 27th day of Rajjab is observed as Meraj ki Raat or Shab-E-Meraj, also called the Night of Ascension. It is believed that on this night, Prophet Mohammed undertook a spiritual journey to the heavens and met Allah. It is a night of special prayers and contemplation.

Shaban

• The 14th day of Shaban is known as Shab-E-Barat. It is regarded as the Night of Forgiveness or the Day of Atonement. Muslims spend the night praying for forgiveness and blessings for the deceased. Families often visit the graves of their loved ones and offer prayers, seeking mercy and peace for the departed souls.

Ramzan (Ramadan)

• Ramzan or Ramadan is considered the most sacred month in the Islamic calendar. It is a time of fasting (sawm), prayer, introspection, and community. Muslims abstain from eating and drinking from dawn until sunset, breaking their fast with a meal known as Iftar.
• The 27th day of Ramadan is known as Shab-E-Qadr or the Night of Power. It is believed that on this night, the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Mohammed. It is considered the holiest night of the month, with special prayers and supplications offered in mosques.

Shawwal

• The 1st day of Shawwal marks the celebration of Id-Ul-Fitr, also known as Meethi Eid or Sewaniyon ki Eid in Rajasthan. It is a festival of joy and harmony, celebrated at the end of Ramadan. Muslims wear new clothes, offer prayers in congregations, and exchange sweets and gifts with friends and family.

Dhu al-Hijjah (Jilhij)

• The month of Dhu al-Hijjah is significant for the Hajj pilgrimage, which is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Muslims who are physically and financially able undertake this pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime.
• Eid-Ul-Adha, also known as Bakra Eid or Eid-Ul-Juha, is celebrated on the 10th day of this month. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God’s command. In remembrance, Muslims perform the ritual Qurbani (sacrifice) of animals such as goats, sheep, or camels, and the meat is distributed among family, friends, and the needy.

FESTIVALS OF THE JAIN COMMUNITY

Rishabhdev Jayanti

• Rishabhdev Jayanti is celebrated on Chaitra Krishna Navmi to mark the birth anniversary of Lord Rishabdeva, also known as Adinatha. He is considered the first Tirthankara (spiritual teacher) of Jainism.
• In Rajasthan, a significant fair is organized at Dhulev village in Udaipur to commemorate this occasion. Devotees gather to offer prayers, participate in religious discourses, and engage in community activities, emphasizing Lord Rishabdeva’s teachings and virtues.

Mahavir Jayanti

• Mahavir Jayanti falls on Chaitra Triyodashi (the 13th day of the waxing phase in the Chaitra month). This day celebrates the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism.
• Lord Mahavir was born in 540 BCE in Kundagrama, Bihar, and he played a crucial role in spreading the principles of non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), non-possessiveness (aparigraha), and celibacy (brahmacharya).
• Celebrations include processions with the idol of Lord Mahavir, special prayers in Jain temples, and discourses on his teachings. It is one of the most important festivals for the Jain community.

Das Lakshan Parva (Paryushan)

• Das Lakshan Parva is a significant festival for Jains that emphasizes self-purification, penance, and spiritual upliftment. It is observed for 10 days and involves the practice of forgiveness, introspection, and non-violence.
• The festival begins on Bhadrapada Shukla Panchami (the 5th day of the bright fortnight of Bhadrapada) and concludes on Chaturdashi (the 14th day). During this time, Jains reflect on the ten virtues (dasa lakshanas), which include forgiveness, humility, straightforwardness, and purity.
• Das Lakshan Parva is also referred to as Paryushan or Maha Parva. It is considered a period of intense spiritual practice, where followers focus on penance, fasting, and meditation.
• The Svetambar Jain community celebrates this festival from Bhadrapada Krishna Dwadashi (the 12th day of the dark fortnight) to Shukla Chaturthi (the 4th day of the bright fortnight), slightly differing in their timing but sharing similar rituals and goals.

Rot Teej

• Rot Teej is observed by the Jain community on Bhadrapada Shukla Tritiya (the 3rd bright day of Bhadrapada). It is a day dedicated to fasting and spiritual reflection.
• On this day, special rituals are performed in Jain temples, and rot (a type of sweet bread) is prepared as a traditional offering, symbolizing simplicity and devotion.

Sugandha Dashmi

• Sugandha Dashmi is celebrated on Bhadrapada Shukla Dashmi (the 10th bright day of Bhadrapada). The festival emphasizes the importance of aromatic virtues, such as purity and righteousness, symbolically represented through the use of fragrant offerings in rituals.
• Devotees engage in prayers and offerings in temples, reflecting on the teachings of the Tirthankaras and the values of discipline and piety.

FESTIVALS OF THE SIKH COMMUNITY

1. Gurunanak Jayanti

• Gurunanak Jayanti is celebrated on Kartik Purnima, the full moon day of the month of Kartik, usually falling in November. It marks the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus.
• Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in 1469 AD in Talwandi, now known as Nankana Sahib (Pakistan). He emphasized the concepts of equality, devotion, and selfless service.
• The day is observed with great reverence by Sikhs around the world, who engage in processions, recitations of the Guru Granth Sahib, and kirtans (devotional songs). Langars (community meals) are organized to serve food to all, symbolizing the spirit of community and equality.
• In Rajasthan, Kolayat Fair in Bikaner coincides with the celebration of Kartik Purnima, and Sahwa in Churu also sees gatherings and fairs that bring the community together on this auspicious occasion.

2. Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti

• Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti is observed on Paush Shukla Saptami, the 7th day of the bright fortnight of Paush (December-January). It marks the birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the 10th and last Guru of the Sikhs.
• Guru Gobind Singh Ji, born in 1666 AD in Patna Sahib, Bihar, was a spiritual leader, poet, philosopher, and warrior. He played a pivotal role in shaping Sikhism, including the establishment of the Khalsa and the finalization of the Guru Granth Sahib as the eternal Guru.
• Sikhs commemorate this day with special prayers, processions, and kirtans, reflecting on Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s teachings and legacy.

3. Lohri

• Lohri is celebrated on 13th January each year and marks the end of winter and the harvest of rabi crops. It is a festival that holds particular significance in Punjab and northern India, including parts of Rajasthan.
• The celebration involves bonfires, singing traditional songs, and dancing the Bhangra and Gidda around the fire. Families come together to offer sesame seeds, jaggery, and popcorn into the flames as a way of expressing gratitude for the harvest.
• Lohri is associated with the arrival of longer days and is often considered the New Year for farmers, symbolizing a time of prosperity and joy.

4. Vaisakhi

• Vaisakhi, celebrated on 13th April, is a festival that marks both the harvest season in Punjab and a significant event in Sikh history.
• On 13th April 1699 AD, Guru Gobind Singh Ji established the Khalsa at Anandpur Sahib in Punjab. This event was a turning point for Sikhism, creating a community of committed Sikhs who would stand for justice and righteousness.
• Khalsa, meaning “pure,” refers to initiated Sikhs who adopt the five articles of faith (kesh – uncut hair, kara – steel bracelet, kirpan – sword, kanga – wooden comb, and kachera – cotton undergarment). The Khalsa is dedicated to protecting the faith and upholding Sikh values.
• Vaisakhi is celebrated with processions, prayers, and reading from the Guru Granth Sahib, as well as cultural activities such as folk dances, fairs, and community gatherings. It is a time for Sikhs to renew their faith and remember the sacrifices made for the preservation of their beliefs.

FESTIVALS OF THE SINDHI COMMUNITY

1. Chetichand or Jhulelal Jayanti

• Chetichand, also known as Jhulelal Jayanti, is celebrated on Chaitra Shukla Ekam, the 1st bright day of Chaitra (March-April). It marks the birth anniversary of Lord Jhulelal, who is revered as the Ishta Dev (presiding deity) of the Sindhi community.
• Lord Jhulelal is considered an incarnation of Lord Varuna, the God of the Sea. According to Sindhi beliefs, Jhulelal came to protect the community from persecution and to promote the worship of water, emphasizing the significance of rivers and oceans.
• Chetichand is celebrated with prayers, processions, and cultural performances. Sindhis participate in Baharana Sahib, a ritual where an idol of Jhulelal is placed on a float (Baharana) and taken to a river or sea to symbolize offering prayers to the water deity. The day is marked by joy, music, and community gatherings.

2. Auchand

• Auchand is observed on Ashwin Shukla Ekam, the 1st bright day of Ashwin (September-October). This day commemorates the death anniversary of Lord Jhulelal, paying homage to his spiritual legacy and teachings.
• Sindhis honor the memory of Jhulelal by offering special prayers and reciting devotional songs like Kalams (hymns) in praise of his life and work. The occasion is marked by gatherings in Sindhi temples (Jhulelal Mandirs), where followers remember his contributions to the community and seek his blessings for peace and prosperity.

3. Chaleeha

• Chaleeha is a significant 40-day festival for the Sindhi community, celebrated from 16th July to 24th August. It involves fasting, prayers, and meditation, reflecting a period of spiritual devotion and self-purification.
• During Chaleeha, devotees abstain from certain foods and pleasures, focusing instead on prayers to Lord Jhulelal. The practice commemorates the time when Sindhi ancestors fasted and prayed for 40 days during difficult periods, seeking divine intervention for safety and guidance.
• The conclusion of Chaleeha is marked with a celebration, where devotees break their fasts, perform rituals at rivers or seas, and come together for community feasts. The end of Chaleeha is seen as a time of renewed hope and spiritual strength.

4. Thadi Satam

• Thadi Satam is observed on Bhadrapada Krishna Saptami, the 7th dark day of Bhadrapada (August-September). It is a day of remembrance and devotion for ancestors and departed souls within the Sindhi community.
• The festival involves fasting and visiting temples and holy places, offering prayers for the peace of departed souls. It is a day of reflection, where families come together to honor their lineage and express gratitude towards their forebears.
• Thadi Satam also involves special meals and offerings made in memory of the departed, as well as charity to those in need, embodying the Sindhi values of compassion and community service.

FESTIVALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY

1. Christmas

• Christmas is celebrated on 25th December each year, marking the birth of Jesus Christ, who is regarded as the Son of God and the Savior in Christianity.
• The day is observed with church services, prayers, and carol singing, celebrating the arrival of Jesus, who was born in Bethlehem to Mary and Joseph. The story of his birth, often called the Nativity, holds a central place in Christian tradition.
• Christmas is a time of joy, generosity, and family gatherings. Christmas trees, decorations, exchanging gifts, and sharing special meals are common practices. Many people also participate in midnight Mass at churches to honor the spiritual significance of the day.

2. New Year

• New Year is celebrated on 1st January, marking the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. For Christians, it is also a time to reflect on the past year and seek blessings for the year ahead.
• Churches often hold special prayer services on New Year’s Eve, where communities gather to give thanks and pray for peace, prosperity, and well-being in the upcoming year. This celebration is a time for renewal, both spiritually and personally.

3. Good Friday

• Good Friday is a solemn day observed to commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is believed that Jesus was crucified at Golgotha, also known as Calvary, and died on this day.
• Good Friday is observed on the Friday before Easter and is a time for Christians to reflect on the sacrifice of Jesus for the redemption of humanity. The day is marked with prayers, fasting, and church services, particularly Stations of the Cross, which recount the events leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion.
• Many Christian communities hold silent processions and re-enactments of the Passion of Christ, reflecting on the pain and suffering that Jesus endured for the salvation of mankind.

4. Easter

• Easter is one of the most important festivals in Christianity, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is believed that Jesus rose from the dead on the third day after his crucifixion, symbolizing the victory of life over death and good over evil.
• Easter is celebrated on the Sunday following the first full moon after the 21st of March, which places it between 22nd March and 25th April each year. It follows Lent, a 40-day period of fasting, prayer, and penance.
• Easter Sunday is a day of joyful celebration with church services, singing hymns, and special prayers. Christians decorate Easter eggs and participate in egg hunts, which symbolize new life and resurrection.

5. Ascension Day

• Ascension Day is celebrated 40 days after Easter and marks the event when Jesus ascended into heaven in the presence of his disciples.
• It is based on the belief that after rising from the dead, Jesus spent 40 days with his disciples, teaching and preparing them for the mission of spreading his teachings. On this day, it is believed that he ascended into heaven from the Mount of Olives near Jerusalem.
• Ascension Day is observed with church services, special prayers, and readings from the New Testament, focusing on Jesus’ final instructions to his disciples. It signifies the completion of his earthly mission and the promise of the Holy Spirit.