Christian Festivals of India

India, the land of vibrant culture and ethnicity, is known for the celebration of a number of colorful festivals in myriad ways. In this secular nation, people following different religions coexist in harmony. All the important festivals of the religions are celebrated with equal pomp and gaiety. Although Hindus predominate the total population of the country, a considerable proportion of people are following Christianity. They celebrate Christian festivals including Christmas, Easter and Good Friday with great enthusiasm and fanfare. Friends and acquaintance following religions other than Christianity also eagerly take part in the celebrations of the Christian festivals, which speaks volumes of the unity in diversity in India.

Some places of India are well known for their celebrations of Christian festivals. The celebration of Christian festivals in Goa, an erstwhile Portuguese colony, is worth special mention. Some of the oldest and most beautiful Indian churches are in Goa. Apart from the regular Christian festivals, these churches observe auspicious days in the Christian calendar by feasting, prayers and processions. While Goa is predominant, when it comes to Christian festivals, other states are also equally enthusiastic about celebrating the occasions. In many parts of the country, streets are filled with carolers and other entertainers, during the festive season

Indian Festivals 2009

India presents a cultural potpourri of number of religions with their own festivals and celebrations but the four major religions followed in India are Hinduism, Islam, Christianity and Sikhism in the descending order. There are a number of regional festivals which are celebrated in particular areas only. Bright colors, brightly lit religious places, illuminated houses, sweets and traditional dresses and dances and unwavering enthusiasm are the characteristics of all the festival holidays in India. Cuisine, dresses and ornaments, especially of the Indian women, with the profusion of golden, red and yellow colors, cultural and traditional performances and music, chariot and car procession of the deities and interesting folklores give the Indian festivals their universal appeal. The concept of universal brotherhood encompasses all the festivals of India and the vibrant colors, warm hospitality and infectious buoyant spirit of the Indians attract people from all over the world to take part in the Indian fairs and festivals.
http://festivals.iloveindia.com/

Festival of India coming this weekend

You don’t have to go all the way to India to celebrate its culture. In fact, Festival of India, held Uptown in the Q.C. this Sat., Sept 5 and Sun., Sept. 6, offers you a much cheaper alternative. The festival features arts and crafts, music and dancing, exhibits, and of course, authentic cuisine. If you’re like me and you love Indian food, this is the place to be — a variety of tasty treats from Indian restaurants in Charlotte and the surrounding area will be available for purchase (and eating!). $5 for admission; free for children under 10 years old. Festival starts at 12 p.m. Held at Belk Theater, which is located at 130 N. Tryon St.

http://blogs.creativeloafing.com