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India is a diverse country with different states and union
territories, each having its own cultural, religious, and regional
significance. As a result, various states and union territories in India
celebrate their own regional holidays in addition to the national holidays
observed throughout the country. Here are some examples of state-specific
holidays celebrated in different states of India:
Kerala:
Onam: A major harvest festival celebrated in Kerala during
the Malayalam month of Chingam (August-September). It is a ten-day festival
that commemorates the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali.
Maharashtra:
Ganesh Chaturthi: A festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the
elephant-headed deity, celebrated with great enthusiasm in Maharashtra. It
usually falls in August or September and involves the installation of Ganesha
idols in homes and public places.
West Bengal:
Durga Puja: A grand festival celebrating the goddess Durga's
triumph over evil, observed in West Bengal and other parts of eastern India. It
usually occurs in September or October and involves elaborate decorations,
cultural performances, and idol immersion.
Tamil Nadu:
Pongal: A four-day harvest festival celebrated in Tamil Nadu
in mid-January. It is a time of gratitude to the sun god and involves the
preparation of a special dish called Pongal, along with cultural festivities.
Punjab:
Baisakhi: A major harvest festival celebrated in Punjab and
some other northern states on April 13th or 14th every year. It marks the Sikh
New Year and commemorates the formation of the Khalsa (Sikh community) in 1699.
Gujarat:
Navratri: A nine-night festival dedicated to the goddess
Durga, celebrated with dance and music in Gujarat and other parts of India. The
most famous form of Navratri celebration in Gujarat is Garba, a traditional
dance performed in groups.
Karnataka:
Ugadi: The New Year festival celebrated in Karnataka and some
other states in southern India. It usually falls in March or April and marks
the beginning of a new lunar calendar year.
These are just a few examples of state-specific holidays
celebrated in India. There are many more regional festivals and holidays
observed in different states and union territories across the country,
showcasing the rich cultural diversity of India.
