|
Hindus observe sacred occasions by festive observances. All festivals in Hinduism are predominantly religious in character and significance. Many festivals are seasonal. Some celebrate harvest and birth of God or heroes. Some are dedicated to important events in Hindu mythology. Many are dedicated to Shiva and Parvati, Vishnu and Lakshmi and Brahma and Saraswati
A festival may be observed with acts of worship, offerings to deities, fasting, feasting, vigil, rituals, fairs, charity, celebrations, Puja, Homa, aarti etc. They celebrate individual and community life of Hindus without distinction of caste, gender or class.
The World Population Day is observed on July 11 every year. Today, population explosion is one of the major concerns of the world. This day reminds us of the ever-increasing pressure on our planet Earth and the challenges we face in the years to come.
Hinduism as a religion is many-sided yet bound by a common search for Truth and to Hindus it means a way of life and a fellowship of faiths. With the advent of the Aryans, it originated as a simple form of worship of the forces of Nature, drawing in its system action in social organisations, local cults, deities’ diverse beliefs and modes of worship. One such festival is the Nag Panchami, which seeks to admire the eternal power that has been blessed with Snakes or with Lord Shiva.
Some important festivals which fall in July 2012, include Guru Purnima, Shab-E-Barat, Mango Festival etc.
|
