short essay about religious festival

Essay on Religious Festivals of India

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Since religion dominates the life of individuals, religious festivals have dominated the cultural life of the people. We can draw a long list of religious festivals associated with various gods and goddesses, regions and traditions. These include festivals such as Holi, Dashehra, Diwali, Christmas, Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Zuha, Gur Parab, etc .

Holi, the festival of colours, is celebrated in the Phalguna (February/March) month of the Indian calendar. It marks the end of the Lunar year’s end. This is the end of the cold season and the start of the hot season.

Dashehra or Vijayadashami is one of India largest festivals. This marks the culmination of the Navaratra (nine nights) and is observed on the tenth day. Depending on where one lives in India, Navaratra emphasizes Durga Puja or Ramalila, and sometimes the celebration of both. Durga Puja focuses on the worship of the goddess Durga and her victory of the buffalo demon Mahishasura. Ramalila is presented as the drama celebrating Rama’s exploits in the epic Ramayana. The climax on Dashehra depicts Rama’s victory over Ravana. This symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. Dashehra often ends with the torching of huge Ravana effigies. Ramalila is very fast emerging as the national drama of India.

Diwali, the festival of light, comes in the month of Kartik (October/November). This is celebrated on the new moon day (amavasya). Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, is worshipped on this day. This festival is associated with the cleanliness and lightening of homes, and fireworks.

Ramzan, Eid-ul-Fitr, Muharram, Bakr-Eid, Urs

The festivals of Muslims such as Ramzan (Ramadan), Eid-ul-Fitr, Muharram, Bakr-Eid (the Feast of Sacrifice), etc. are celebrated according to Muslim calendar. The ritual year begins with the month of Muharram. This marks the practice of Muharram festival that commemorates the martyrdom of Hussein venerated by Shia Muslims, as the third Imam (leader) of Islam after the Prophet Muhammad. On this occasion, a large procession with Tazia is taken out. The participants cry out Hussein’s name. Some devotees even torture themselves with knives, leashes and chains etc. to feel Hussein’s travail. A small fair is organised. In late afternoon, the Tazia is buried.

The Prophet’s birthday is celebrated in the month of Ramzan (Ramadan). The fast of Ramzan lasts the entire month. Everyone except the very young or infirm observe fast between dawn and sunset. The last day of the fast ends with the sighting of the moon, which marks Eid- ul-Fitr. On this day, besides observing the fast, alms is given to poor and sweets are distributed. The end of Ramzan is also the time of departure for Muslims for the Haj or the pilgrimage to Mecca.

Bakr-Eid or the Feast of sacrifice celebrates Abraham’s sacrifice of his son. The goats (bakr or bakra) are sacrificed on this day and meat is shared with friends and the poor.

Urs or the “death anniversary” is an important aspect of the religious faith of the Muslims. These are organised as festivals and pilgrims visit the tombs of saints. Committees are formed to organise Urs. On the anniversary day, the shrine is bathed and the tomb of the saint is decorated. The committee plans readings from the Quran, traditional song sessions, food distributions, and poetry readings. The biggest Urs in India is at the Ajmer shrine of the saint Muin-ud-din Chisti. It is visited by thousand of pilgrims and a big fair is organised.

In Christianity too we have many religious festivals and ceremonies. The popular Christian celebration is that of the birth of Jesus Christ, the Christmas. The name is English in origin, which means “Christ’s Mass” or the mass celebrating the feast of Christ’s nativity. It is observed every year on 25th December. In this, the children wait for the legendary Santa Claus, the popular gift bringer. Other customs of the Christmas season includes the baking of special foods and singing of special songs called carols, which have mass appeal.

Easter is the most important of all Christian feasts. It celebrates the passion, the death, and especially the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Easter is celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox. Easter was fundamentally a nocturnal feast preceded by a fast of at least one day. The celebration took place from Saturday evening until the early morning hours of Sunday. The symbolism of light became a significant feature of this festival. In Northern Europe the use of special lights at Easter coincided with the custom of lighting bonfires on hilltops to celebrate the coming of spring. The main Easter foods include the Easter lamb, which is in many places the main dish of the Easter Sunday meal. Ham is also popular among the Europeans and Americans on the occasion of Easter. This is because the pig was considered a symbol of luck in pre-Christian European culture.

The Parsis (Zoroastrians) of India celebrate Nauroz (Nawruz) as their most popular festival. It is a festival of renewal, hope and happiness. The origins of Nauroz are obscure. According to legends, its institution is associated mostly with Jamshed, the mythical Iranian king. Nevertheless, till today it is observed as the Iranian national festival celebrating the arrival of spring. Zoroaster, the ancient prophet of Iran, probably reconsecrated Nauroz to his religion. Nauroz survived the advent of Islam and continued as the Iranian national festival. The Shia Muslims of Iran came to associate important religious events with Nauroz such as that the prophet Muhammad took his young son-in-law Ali on his shoulders to smash the idols at Mecca and he chose Ali as his rightful successor. The Muslim rulers of Iran, continuing the Sasanid tradition, celebrated this festival with pomp and show. The Parsis of India who left Iran in the 10th century in order to preserve their Zoroastrian faith also continue to celebrate Nauroz (Jamashedi Nauroz) as a major feast. The ceremonies include recitation of religious verses, visiting of relatives and friends, the exchange of gifts, organising music and dance, etc.

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Essay on Indian Festivals in 500 Words in English

• Updated on  
• Mar 20, 2024

India is a land of diverse cultures. From the Northern Himalayas to the backwaters of Kerala, more than 700 cultures flourish in India. With a rich cultural diversity, several festivals are also celebrated in India. The list of Indian festivals is endless. Out of the 365 days a year, there is hardly any day on which a festival is not celebrated. 

Festivals bring joy and happiness to our lives. Indian festivals are not just celebrations. These are special occasions where we celebrate our traditional values with great enthusiasm. At Indian festivals, special arrangements are made, and homes and streets are decorated with flowers and lights. Some popular Indian festivals are Holi, Diwali, Janmashtami, Ganesh Chaturthi, Raksha Bandhan, Pongal, Eid, Navratri, Durga Puja, etc. 

Table of Contents

• 1 Why Indian Festivals Are Important to Us?
• 2 Most Popular Festivals in India
• 3 National Festivals/ Holidays
• 4 Conclusion
• 5 10 Lines on Indian Festivals
• 6 200 Words Essay on Indian Festivals

Check out our 200+ Essay Topics for School Students in English

Why Indian Festivals Are Important to Us?

Indian festivals are deeply rooted in the country’s rich cultural heritage and traditions. Celebrating these festivals reminds us of our rich heritage and traditional values. Indian festivals foster unity, and social cohesion among different communities, religions, and backgrounds. 

Our festivals are our cultural identity. Our festivals connect us with our cultural roots, language, customs, and heritage. They provide a sense of belonging and pride in one’s cultural identity.

In a diverse country like India, festivals serve as a unifying force by transcending regional, linguistic, and religious differences. They promote mutual respect, understanding, and harmony among people from various backgrounds, fostering national integration and unity in diversity.

Indian festivals have been categorized into three types of festivals: Religious Festivals, National Festivals/ Holidays, and State/ Regional Holidays.

Also Read: Essay on Good Friday in 500 Words in English

Most Popular Festivals in India

The first Indian festival of the year is Swami Vivekananda Jayanti on the 12th of January every year. Every festival has its significance and ways of celebrating. Here are popular festivals celebrated in India.

• Makar Sankranti/ Pongal
• Maha Shivratri
• Raksha Bandhan
• Janmashtami
• Navratri/ Durga Puja
• Dussehra/Vijayadashami
• Guru Nanak Jayanti

National Festivals/ Holidays

National festivals or holidays are the days of national importance. These days have both historical and religious significance. Celebrating national festivals like the Republic Day on 26th January and the Independence Day on 15th August or the birth of our national leaders commemorate significant historical events. Here are the three national holidays of India.

• Republic Day – 26th January
• Independence Day – 15th August
• Gandhi Jayanti – 2nd October

Also Read: Essay on Mother’s Day

Indian festivals are our identity. These festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm, which not only serves as an occasion for love and joy but also fosters a sense of belonging and unity. Indian festivals show the rich Indian culture and diversity. People from all sections of society participate in festive celebrations and rituals, where they offer prayers to gods, exchange sweets and delicious food, and wear traditional clothes. Indian festivals are like bookmarks in the story of our lives, marking moments of celebration, reflection, and connection.

Also Read: Essay on Peer Pressure

10 Lines on Indian Festivals

Here are 10 lines on Indian festivals. You can surely add them to your essay on Indian festivals or similar essay topics.

• Indian festivals are filled with vibrant celebrations and joy, fostering unity and belonging.
• Holi, Diwali, Dussehra, Janmashtami, Ramnavmi, Baisakhi, Navratri and Pongal are some of the popular Indian festivals.
• They bring families and communities together, fostering unity and harmony.
• Each festival has its unique rituals, customs, and significance.
• Festivals mark important milestones, seasons, and religious observances.
• They offer moments of joy, reflection, and spiritual renewal.
• Festivals showcase India’s rich cultural diversity and heritage.
• From Diwali to Holi, each festival fills the air with excitement and enthusiasm.
• Festivals are occasions for feasting, sharing, and spreading happiness.
• They transcend boundaries of caste, creed, and religion, promoting inclusivity.

200 Words Essay on Indian Festivals

‘Indian festivals are important and days are celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy. These are special occasions that have historical, religious, and social importance. Indian festivals are celebrated by both adults and children, where they worship gods and goddesses, offer prayers, perform rituals, participate in social activities, and eat sweets and delicious sweets.

Indian festivals are divided into three categories. These are religious festivals, national holidays/ festivals, and regional festivals. In India, there are three national holidays or festivals. These are the days of national importance which are historically very important. The three national holidays of India are:

Indian festivals and their celebrations are both national and regional. Festivals like Diwali, Dussehra, and Holi are celebrated all over the country. Regional festivals, on the other hand, are celebrated in their respective states or regions. Pongal is celebrated in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Durga Puja is celebrated in West Bengal and the Bengali community. Baisakhi and Lohri by the Sikh community, and so on.

Indian festivals play a crucial role in promoting cultural diversity, social harmony, economic prosperity, and national unity, making them integral to the fabric of Indian society.’

Que. 1 How to write an essay on Indian festivals?

Ans . Festivals bring joy and happiness to our lives. Indian festivals are not just celebrations. These are special occasions where we celebrate our traditional values with great enthusiasm. At Indian festivals, special arrangements are made, and homes and streets are decorated with flowers and lights. Some popular Indian festivals are Holi, Diwali, Janmashtami, Ganesh Chaturthi, Raksha Bandhan, Pongal, Eid, Navratri, Durga Puja, etc. 

Que. 2 What are popular Indian festivals?

Ans. Holi, Diwali, Dussehra, Janmashtami, Ramnavmi, Baisakhi, Navratri, and Pongal are some of the popular Indian festivals.

Que. 3 What are national festivals in India?

Ans. National festivals are days of national importance, which mark important historical events and birth anniversaries of our national heroes. Republic Day, Independence Day and Gandhi Jayanti are the three national festivals of India.

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Essay On Indian Festivals

Table of Contents

Short Essay On Indian Festivals

India is a land of rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions. Festivals play a significant role in showcasing the country’s unique customs and beliefs. From north to south and east to west, India celebrates a plethora of festivals throughout the year. Some of the most popular festivals are:

• Diwali – The festival of lights is celebrated in October or November and marks the victory of good over evil. People light diyas (small oil lamps), decorate their homes, and burst firecrackers to celebrate the occasion.
• Holi – The festival of colors is celebrated in March and symbolizes the arrival of spring. People play with colors, sing, dance, and feast with friends and family.
• Navaratri – This nine-night festival is celebrated in honor of the Hindu goddess Durga. People fast, perform puja (prayers), and participate in dance and music performances.
• Raksha Bandhan – The festival of siblings is celebrated in August and signifies the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters tie a rakhi (sacred thread) on their brother’s wrist and receive gifts in return.
• Dussehra – The festival is celebrated in September or October and marks the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana. People burn effigies of Ravana and celebrate with feasts and cultural programs.

These festivals not only bring people together but also reflect the country’s cultural richness and unity. Whether it’s the lighting of diyas during Diwali or the tossing of colors during Holi, each festival has a special significance and holds a special place in the hearts of Indians.

Long Essay On Indian Festivals

Indian festivals are celebrated with great pomp and show, as they are a reflection of the rich and vibrant culture that India has been blessed with. From Diwali to Holi, there are plenty of festivals that bring people together to celebrate the joys of life. In this essay, we will explore how Indian festivals have evolved over time and how they continue to shape our culture today.

Introduction: Discussing the Cultural and Religious Significance of Indian Festivals

Indian festivals are a rich and vibrant part of the country’s culture. They play an important role in the religious and social life of the people. India is a land of diversity and this is reflected in its festivals. Each region has its own unique festivals that are celebrated with great enthusiasm.

The most popular festivals in India are Diwali, Holi, Durga Puja and Navratri. These festivals are celebrated by all Indians regardless of their religion or caste. They bring people together and create a sense of unity among them.

Diwali is the festival of lights and is celebrated to mark the victory of good over evil. It is one of the most popular Hindu festivals and is celebrated by Hindus all over the world. Holi is the festival of colors and is celebrated to mark the beginning of spring. It is a time when people forget all their differences and come together to celebrate life.

Durga Puja is a nine-day festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil. It is observed mainly in the eastern states of India but is also celebrated by Hindus all over the country. Navratri is a nine-day festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga. It is observed mainly in the western states but is also celebrated by Hindus all across India.

These are just some of the many Indian festivals that are celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm by people of all religions and regions. They play an important role in bringing people together and creating a sense of unity in the country. They also serve to remind us of our rich and diverse cultural heritage.

Types of Indian Festivals: Holi, Diwali, Eid, etc.

There are many types of Indian festivals, each with its own unique customs and traditions. Here are some of the most popular:

Holi: Also known as the “festival of colors”, Holi is celebrated in early spring. It is a time when people let loose and have fun, playing with colored powder and water.

Diwali: The “festival of lights”, Diwali is celebrated in late autumn or early winter. It is a time of joy and celebration, when people decorate their homes with lanterns and candles.

Eid: Eid is a Muslim festival that marks the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting. It is a time for feasting and celebration, when people exchange gifts and visit loved ones.

Symbolism Behind Each Festival

One of the most interesting things about Indian festivals is the deep symbolism behind each one. For example, take the festival of Holi. This festival celebrates the triumph of good over evil, and also symbolizes the coming of spring. The colors used during Holi represent different aspects of nature, and are thought to bring good luck and prosperity.

Similarly, the festival of Diwali has a number of different symbols associated with it. The most important is light, which represents knowledge and understanding. Diwali is also a time for giving thanks to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Candles are lit during Diwali as an offering to her, and as a way to ward off darkness and ignorance.

There are many other examples of the deep symbolism behind Indian festivals. Take some time to research them all – you’ll be amazed at the hidden meaning in each one!

Importance of Family Reunions During Indian Festivals

The Indian festival season is a time when families come together to celebrate. For many, it is the only time of year when they can be with their extended family. This is why family reunions during Indian festivals are so important.

Festivals are a time of joy and celebration. They are also a time for families to reconnect and create new memories. Family reunions during Indian festivals provide an opportunity for families to catch up with each other and reminisce about past memories. They also give families a chance to create new traditions and memories that will last a lifetime.

Indian festivals are also a time for families to bond with each other. Families can spend quality time together during the festival season by participating in activities such as cooking, singing, and dancing. These activities help families to connect with each other on a deeper level and create lasting bonds.

Family reunions during Indian festivals are an important part of the festival season. They provide an opportunity for families to reconnect with each other, create new traditions, and bond on a deeper level.

The Role of Music and Dance in Indian Festivals

Festivals in India are characterized by color, joy, enthusiasm, togetherness, and a deep sense of reverence for the divine. They are also an integral part of the country’s social and cultural fabric. And music and dance play a significant role in these festivals.

Indian music is deeply rooted in the country’s rich culture and tradition. It is an expression of the soul of the people. And it is this soul that comes alive during festivals. The music and dance at these times are not just entertainment but a means of connecting with the divine.

The traditional music of India is based on two main systems – the raga system and the tala system. The ragas are melodic structures while the talas are rhythmic patterns. These two systems combine to create beautiful and hypnotic melodies that are truly unique to India.

Indian dances also have their roots in antiquity. They were originally performed as religious rituals or as expressions of joy and celebration. Today, they are an important part of Indian festivals. The most popular dances include Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, Manipuri, and Kuchipudi. Each dance has its own distinctive style and movements that tell a story or convey a particular emotion.

Dance and music are essential ingredients of Indian festivals. They add vibrancy and energy to the celebrations and help us connect with our innermost selves.

The Impact of Technology on Modern Celebrations

Technology has had a profound impact on the way we celebrate festivals. In the past, festivals were celebrated through traditional means such as singing and dancing around a bonfire. However, nowadays, people have started to use technology to enhance their festival celebrations. For example, many people now use social media to invite friends and family to their festivals. Additionally, people often use technology to create digital decorations for their homes or venues. Finally, people have also started using technology to create virtual reality experiences that allow them to feel as if they are actually at the festival.

Conclusion: How Celebrating Indian Festivals Can Bring People Together

Indian festivals are a great way to bring people together. They are a time when families and friends can get together and celebrate. They are also a time when people can learn about each other’s cultures and traditions. Indian festivals are a great way to celebrate the diversity of India.

Manisha Dubey Jha is a skilled educational content writer with 5 years of experience. Specializing in essays and paragraphs, she’s dedicated to crafting engaging and informative content that enriches learning experiences.

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Short Essay on Diwali [100, 200, 400 Words] With PDF

In this lesson, you will learn how you can write short essays on Diwali . Here, I will write three different sets of essays in this session covering different word limits. 

Short Essay on Diwali in 100 Words

Diwali is a major religious festival celebrated by Hindus around the world. This auspicious festival is associated with Goddess Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity. Hindus believe that on the night of Diwali, Goddess Lakshmi comes down to earth to bless the people. So, people clean and decorate their houses and light ‘Diyas’ or oil lamps to welcome the Goddess into their homes.

They also wear new clothes, prepare a variety of sweet dishes and worship Goddess Lakshmi along with Lord Ganesha, the God of good fortune, and ask for their blessings. On the night of Diwali, people burst firecrackers, visit their friends and relatives, exchange sweets and have a great time. 

Short Essay on Diwali in 200 Words

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a major religious festival celebrated by Hindus around the world. Diwali is a five-day-long festival and is celebrated in the Hindu month of Kartika. In the Gregorian calendar, it usually falls between mid-October to mid-November.

The festival is associated with Goddess Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity. Hindus believe that on the night of Diwali, Goddess Lakshmi comes down to earth to bless the people. So, people renovate, clean and decorate their houses as well as light ‘Diyas’ or oil lamps to welcome the Goddess. 

The first day of the festival is called ‘Dhanteras’. On this day, people worship Lakshmi as well as Kubera, the Lord of wealth. It is customary to buy gold and silver coins as well as new utensils on this day. The next day is ‘Narak Chaturdashi’. It is believed that the demon Narakasura was killed on this day.

On the third day of the festival or the day of Diwali, people wear new clothes, make rangolis, prepare sweet dishes and worship Goddess Lakshmi along with Lord Ganesha, the God of good fortune, and ask for their blessings. At night, people light oil lamps, burst firecrackers, visit their friends and relatives, exchange sweets and have a great time. The fourth day is Govardhan puja and the festival concludes with Bhai Dooj on the last day. 

Short Essay on Diwali in 400 Words

Diwali, also known as Deepavali or Divali and often referred to as the festival of lights, is a major religious festival celebrated by Hindus around the world. Diwali is a five-day-long festival and is celebrated in the Hindu month of Kartika. In the Gregorian calendar, it usually falls between mid-October to mid-November.

The festival is mainly associated with Goddess Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity, but as different regions have different traditions and myths, Diwali is also connected to Ganesha, Kubera, Rama, Sita, Durga, Kali, Krishna, Yama and Dhanvantri. 

The first day of the festival is called ‘Dhanteras’. On this day, people worship Goddess Lakshmi as well as Kubera, the god of wealth and Dhanvantri, the God of medicine and Ayurveda. It is customary to buy gold and silver items as well as utensils on Dhanteras.

The next day is ‘Narak Chaturdashi’ or ‘Kali Chaudas’. It is believed that the demon Narakasura was killed on this day. It is also believed that 14 forefathers come to visit their living relatives on Narak Chaturdashi. So, people pray to gods for protection against evil as well as offer food and offerings to their forefathers.

The third and main day of the festival is Diwali. It is believed that on the night of Diwali, Goddess Lakshmi comes down to earth to bless the people. So, people clean and decorate their houses and light ‘Diyas’ or oil lamps to welcome the Goddess into their homes. They also wear new clothes, prepare a variety of sweet dishes and worship Goddess Lakshmi along with Lord Ganesha, the God of good fortune, and ask for their blessings.

In some parts of India, especially in West Bengal, the day is celebrated as Kali Puja and people worship Goddess Kali. Legends also say that on the day of Diwali, Lord Rama and Sita returned to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. To celebrate their return, the people of Ayodhya lit thousands of oil lamps. Thus, many people also worship Rama and Sita along with Lakshman and Hanuman, on this day. 

The fourth day of the festival is celebrated as Govardhan puja and is associated with Lord Krishna. On this day, cows are worshipped and fed. The festival concludes with Bhai Dooj, a day to celebrate the beautiful bond between brothers and sisters. On this day, sisters invite brothers to their houses and prepare a lot of delicious dishes for them. They apply tika on their brother’s forehead and pray for their long life. In turn, the brothers give them gifts and promise to protect them for life. 

Diwali is a fun-filled festival and holds a lot of importance for Hindus. 

In today’s session, I have tried to write the essays in a very simple language for a better and easier understanding of all kinds of students. If you still have any kind of confusion regarding this context, let me know through the comment section below. Keep browsing our website for more such sessions on various important topics. 

Thank you. 

Essay on Diwali in English (150, 200, 300, 400 Words)

Diwali, often called the "Festival of Lights," is a widely celebrated and cherished festival in India. In this essay, we will explore the significance and traditions of Diwali in simple and easy-to-understand language.

Diwali is a prominent and much-awaited occasion, and people often search for "Diwali essay in English" to learn more about it. The festival represents the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. It is a time for joy, togetherness, and spreading love and positivity. Diwali typically lasts for five days, and each day holds a special meaning and ritual.

The highlight of Diwali is the lighting of oil lamps and candles, which adorn homes, streets, and public spaces, creating a mesmerizing, illuminated atmosphere. People exchange gifts, share sweets, and wear new clothes. Children eagerly look forward to Diwali for the treats they receive. As we delve deeper into this essay, we will learn about the stories, legends, and customs associated with Diwali, which make it a remarkable and culturally rich celebration in India. So, let's embark on this journey to discover the magic and significance of Diwali.

Diwali Essay In English 150 Words ( For Classes 4 And 5 Students)

Essays on Diwali in 150 words are suitable for class 4 and 5 students. This is one of the most important essays that comes in exams each year.

Diwali Essay in English 200 Words (For Classes 6,7 and 8 Students)

Diwali essays with a word limit of 200 words are important for English exams of 6,7, and 8-class students.

Diwali Essay in English 300 Words (For 9,10 and 11 Class Students)

Diwali essays in 300 words are important for class 9,10 and 11 class students for their English exams. This essay is frequently asked in the writing section of the English exam.

Diwali Essay in English 400 Words: (For Class 12 and Other Competitive Exams)

Diwali Essays in 400 words or more are important for class 12 boards English exams. It is also important for competitive exams to test the writing skills of students.

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Festivals of India Essay | Essay on Festivals of India and Its Importance

February 7, 2024 by Prasanna

Festivals of India Essay:  Festivals of India essay educates the students about India’s vast cultural legacy. With various cultures and religions spread over the country, there are countless festivals celebrated in India. From an academic perspective, students must know about the various festivals celebrated across India. Read on to find more about on essay on importance of Festivals.

To write an engaging festival of India essay, students must use a few tips and tricks to make their essays stand out. This helps students to write very engaging essays and secure more marks in their exams. Consider the following tips and tricks when writing an essay:

You can also find more  Essay Writing  articles on events, persons, sports, technology and many more.

Festivals of India Essay – Guidelines and Writing Tips

These tips will help you secure more marks for the evaluation of the essay.

• Begin the essay with an introductory paragraph provide an insight into the history of the topic if possible
• Integrate historical facts, names or other important data that may add credibility to the essay.
• Exclude jargons or other technical terms, until it is absolutely required.
• Present content in small, digestible chunks. Smaller the paragraphs, the easier to read.
• Present important facts in points
• Ensure that there are no grammatical or factual errors in the essay,
• End the essay with a closing paragraph.

Festivals of India Essay – Sample 1 (200 Words)

India has a rich culture, dating back several thousand years. Therefore, India celebrates the most  number of cultural and religious festivals than any other country in the world. Moreover, celebrations in India are often observed with grandeur. In general, festivals in India are classified into three categories, namely: seasonal, religious and national.

Seasonal Festivals: Seasonal festivals, as the name implies, are festivals that celebrate a particular season. For instance, the harvest season is celebrated across many states in India. In Tamil Nadu, the harvest festival is known as Pongal. In Kerala, Onam is considered as a harvest festival and Bihu is considered as the harvest festival of Assam.

Religious Festivals: Religious festivals are celebrated to signify a time of special importance, often marked by adherents to the respective religion. For instance, Christmas is a religious festival celebrated to mark the birth of Jesus Christ. Guru Nanak Jayanti is festival that celebrates the birth of the first Sikh Guru – Guru Nanak

National Festivals: National festivals are celebrated all over India irrespective of caste, creed, gender, religion or sex. These festivals generally invoke a sense of patriotism and belongingness. India has three national festivals – namely Independence Day, Republic Day, and Gandhi Jayanti. Moreover, these festivals are public holidays, regardless of the state or union territory.

Festivals of India Essay – Sample 2 (500 Words +)

India is a cultural melting pot, with numerous cultures and religions. Therefore, it is not surprising that India has many festivals. The following are some of the major festivals celebrated across India.

Republic Day: Though not exclusively a religious festival, Republic Day marks the enforcement of the Indian Constitution nearly 70 years ago. It is celebrated on the 26th of January every year. This is an important event in the history of modern India, hence, it is a national holiday. Republic Day celebrations take place in a ceremonial boulevard called the Rajpath in New Delhi. The parades pass in front of the President of India and many other important delegates. The parade is also broadcast across national and international television, portraying India’s various cultures and diversity.

Pongal: Pongal is essentially a thanks-giving festival, and the most sacred festival for Tamil Nadu. It is  celebrated between 14th-15th January to thank the “Sun God” and the Lord Indhra for helping the farmers improve their crop yield. It is also customary to reject the old and welcome new materialistic possessions

Sankranti: Makar Sankranti is a popular festival also known by other names such as Suggi, Lohri, and Uttarayan. It is celebrated on 15th January to mark the end of winter and the beginning of harvest season. Sweets are usually exchanged among family members, friends and neighbours. In Gujarat, if one happens lookup at the skies during this festival, they may find kites of varying sizes and designs.

Basant Panchami: Basant Panchami is dedicated to the Hindu Goddess – Saraswati. The dates may vary between January last week and February first week. The festival is celebrated on a massive scale across Assam, Bihar, Odisha and West Bengal. The colour yellow is considered quite auspicious on this day, hence people wear yellow clothes in Rajasthan. In Uttarakhand, Lord Shiva and Goddess Paravti are worshipped on this day.

Maha Shivaratri: Maha Shivaratri marks the overcoming of ignorance and darkness. It is celebrated on 21st February every year with utmost splendour.  Devotees gather in large numbers to worship the Gods in temples at Varanasi. A temple in Ujjain, the Mahakaleshwar Temple is also very prominent during this time and is flocked by thousands of devotees.

Holi: Holi is one of India’s most iconic festivals.It is typically celebrated between 9th and 10th March every year. People play with with bright colours dance to music. Women beat their husbands with sticks and shields, playfully of course. The night before Holi, a big bonfire is created, signifying the destruction of any negative vibes. Southern India observes Holi by worshiping the God of Love – Kamadeva. In Gujarat, Holi is celebrated to signify new beginnings.

Diwali: Diwali, also called the Festival of Lights, signifies the triumph of good over evil and light over dark. It is celebrated on 14th November every year. Moreover, it is also celebrated to honour the seventh incarnation of the Lord Vishnu (Rama-chandra). During this festival, people perform poojas during the day and at night, they adorn their houses with lamps and burst crackers. People also exchange sweets and wear new clothes.

Christamas: Christmas is a festival which is celebrated not just in India, but almost everywhere else in the world. It is celebrated on 25th December to mark the birth of Jesus Christ, who is believed to be the son of God by Christians. Christmas is celebrated by placing gifts under a decorated Christmas tree. People also visit churches to seek blessings from Christ during this festival.

Onam: Onam is the festival of harvest for Kerala. It is also one of the biggest festivals for the state, and is celebrated with grandeur. The festival pays homage to Mahabali, a benevolent Daitya king. The celebration is almost a week long typically starting from 22nd August to  2nd September. The central part of the festival is a grand feast. Moreover, people also adorn new clothes and make patterns out of flowers in front of their houses.

In conclusion, India celebrates many festivals, national, religious and seasonal. It is also one of the few countries in the world to have such as large number of festivals.

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What is Diwali?

Diwali, also spelled Divali, is one of the major religious festivals in Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism. The name is derived from the Sanskrit term dipavali , meaning “row of lights.” The festival generally symbolizes the victory of light over darkness.

Which religions celebrate Diwali?

Diwali is one of the major religious festivals in Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism. Although not a primary festival of Buddhism, Diwali is celebrated by some Buddhists as a commemoration of the day when Emperor Ashoka converted to Buddhism in the 3rd century BCE.

Do Sikhs celebrate Diwali?

Since the 18th century, Diwali has been celebrated in Sikhism as the time of Guru Hargobind’s return to Amritsar from captivity in Gwalior, an echo of Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya. Residents of Amritsar lit lamps throughout the city to celebrate the occasion.

Do Jains celebrate Diwali?

Diwali is an important festival in Jainism. For the Jain community, the festival commemorates the enlightenment and liberation (moksha) of Mahavira , the most recent of the Jain Tirthankaras, from the cycle of life and death (samsara). The lighting of the lamps celebrates the light of Mahavira’s holy knowledge.

Observances of Diwali differ depending on region and tradition. Among Hindus the most widespread custom is the lighting of diyas (small earthenware lamps filled with oil) on the night of the new moon to invite the presence of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. Diwali is generally a time for visiting, exchanging gifts, wearing new clothes, feasting, feeding the poor, and setting off fireworks (though such displays have been restricted to limit noise and other environmental pollution).

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Diwali , one of the major religious festivals in Hinduism , Jainism , and Sikhism , lasting for five days from the 13th day of the dark half of the lunar month Ashvina to the second day of the light half of the lunar month Karttika. (The corresponding dates in the Gregorian calendar usually fall in late October and November.) The name is derived from the Sanskrit term dipavali , meaning “row of lights.” The festival generally symbolizes the victory of light over darkness.

Observances of Diwali differ depending on region and tradition. Among Hindus the most widespread custom is the lighting of diya s (small earthenware lamps filled with oil) on the night of the new moon to invite the presence of Lakshmi , the goddess of wealth. In Bengal the goddess Kali is worshipped. In North India the festival also celebrates the royal homecoming of Rama (along with Sita , Lakshmana, and Hanuman ) to the city of Ayodhya after defeating Ravana , the 10-headed king of the demons, thus connecting the festival with the holiday of Dussehra . In South India the festival marks Krishna ’s defeat of the demon Narakasura. Some celebrate Diwali as a commemoration of the marriage of Lakshmi and Vishnu , while others observe it as the birthday of Lakshmi.

During the festival, diya s are lit and placed in rows along the parapets of temples and houses and set adrift on rivers and streams. Homes are decorated, and floors inside and out are covered with rangoli , consisting of elaborate designs made of coloured rice, sand, or flower petals. The doors and windows of houses are kept open in the hope that Lakshmi will find her way inside and bless the residents with wealth and success.

The names and events of the individual days of Diwali are as follows:

The first day, known as Dhanteras, is dedicated to cleaning homes and purchasing small items of gold. Lakshmi is the focus of worship on that day. The second day, called Naraka Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali, commemorates Krishna’s destruction of Narakasura; prayers are also offered for the souls of ancestors. On the third day, Lakshmi Puja, families seek blessings from Lakshmi to ensure their prosperity; light diya s, candles, and fireworks; and visit temples. It is the main day of the Diwali festival. The fourth day, known as Goverdhan Puja, Balipratipada, or Annakut, commemorating Krishna’s defeat of Indra , the king of the gods, is also the first day of Karttika and the start of the new year in the Vikrama (Hindu) calendar . Merchants perform religious ceremonies and open new account books. The fifth day, called Bhai Dooj, Bhai Tika, or Bhai Bij, celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. On that day sisters pray for the success and well-being of their brothers.

Diwali is generally a time for visiting, exchanging gifts, wearing new clothes, feasting, feeding the poor, and setting off fireworks (though such displays have been restricted to limit noise and other environmental pollution). Gambling, especially in the form of card games, is encouraged as a way of ensuring good luck in the coming year and in remembrance of the games of dice played by Shiva and Parvati on Mount Kailasa or similar contests between Radha and Krishna. Ritually, in honour of Lakshmi, the female player always wins.

Diwali is also an important festival in Jainism . For the Jain community , the festival commemorates the enlightenment and liberation ( moksha ) of Mahavira , the most recent of the Jain Tirthankaras , from the cycle of life and death ( samsara ). The lighting of the lamps celebrates the light of Mahavira’s holy knowledge.

Since the 18th century, Diwali has been celebrated in Sikhism as the time of Guru Hargobind ’s return to Amritsar from captivity in Gwalior —an echo of Rama’s return to Ayodhya. Residents of Amritsar lit lamps throughout the city to celebrate the occasion.

Although not a primary festival of Buddhism , Diwali is celebrated by some Buddhists as a commemoration of the day when Emperor Ashoka converted to Buddhism in the 3rd century bce . It is observed by the Vajrayana Buddhist minority among the Newar people of Nepal . They celebrate by lighting lamps, decorating temples and monasteries, and worshipping the Buddha .

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• National Festivals of India Essay

Essay on National Festivals of India

Vibrant, cheerful and joyful – are the words to describe the festivals of India. There are umpteen number of festivals which are celebrated joyfully in India.On top of these festivals, there are few National festivals that the whole of India proudly comes together to celebrate irrespective of their religion or caste. This National Festivals of India essay is for kids studying in Class 5 and above. The language is kept plain and simple to make it easy for students to understand well. They will be easily able to write a short National Festivals of India essay in English after going through this article.

Long Essay on National Festivals of India

India is a culturally diverse country. It is home to many religions, castes and communities. People celebrate many different festivals in the way the respective festivals are celebrated in their respective communities. But these national festival days have been immensely important in the chapters of Indian history. National festivals help bring in a sense of patriotism. It reminds us that despite all our differences, our love for our country unites us all. We commemorate these festivals with great pomp and show to celebrate the milestones of India’s history. National festivals in India constitute Independence Day, Republic Day and Gandhi Jayanti.

Independence Day falls on the 15th of August. On this day, in 1947, the colonization of India by the British came to an end, which had lasted for two hundred years. It took a long drawn out struggle to free the country and its citizens from the shackles of British rule. The likes of Mahatma Gandhi, Bhagat Singh, Sarojini Naidu and Bal Gangadhar Tilak, those who fought for our freedom are honored on this day. This day also marks the partition of India and Pakistan. To commemorate this day, first the President addresses the nation through a broadcast on the eve of 15th August. In the morning of the day, the present prime minister arrives at the Red Fort in New Delhi and the guard of honour greets him. The Indian national flag is hoisted and then the national anthem is sung across the nation. The prime minister addresses the nation from Red Fort, exactly the way Jawaharlal Nehru, the first prime minister of India, had done back in 1947. It is followed by a parade by the Indian military and paramilitary forces. Selected performances by school children are also carried out. Flag hoisting is done across India, majorly in schools and colleges. Every government building in the country sports the tri-color on its terrace. Kids and elders enjoy flying kites and playing with colors of our tri-color. Different plays and movies are showcased on various platforms, to remind the new generation of the contributions and sacrifices the freedom fighters made for us to be able to breathe in the free air.

On 26th of January 1950, the Constitution of India came into effect and our country became a republic. On this day in the year 1929 the Indian National Congress had proclaimed “Poorna Swaraj” against the Dominion status offered by the British Regime. The final draft of the Constitution took two years and eleven months to be ready. It contained the preamble and fundamental rights that are guaranteed to each and every Indian citizen. The commemoration begins with the parade from RashtrapatiBhavan to Rajpath. Unlike Independence day, the President presides over the Republic Day celebration. The armed forces march towards the India Gate, the flag hoisting is done and the national anthem is sung. Armed forces and tableaus from various states, selected by the ministry of defense participate in the parade. Bravery awards are presented, the graves of those who sacrificed their lives for the country are garlanded- a leader from a foreign country is invited as a chief guest to honor the event. People wake up early on a Republic Day morning to watch the parade.

To remember the Father of the Nation Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi also known as Mahatma Gandhi, his birth anniversary is commemorated as Gandhi Jayanti. It falls on the 2nd October. He was one of the revered freedom fighters and is known for his ideologies of non-violence. His beliefs are still practiced. The Prime Minister pays homage at Raj Ghat, his crematorium. This day is observed in the schools too. Students take part in various events like essay competitions, poem recitation and banner-making promoting nonviolence. This day is also celebrated as the International day of Non-Violence in honor of Mahatma Gandhi.

Short Paragraph on National Festivals of India

Three national festivals are celebrated in India. They are Independence Day, Republic Day and Gandhi Jayanti. People celebrate the National Festivals of India with as much magnificence as the regional religious festivals. The citizens of the nation get doused in patriotism on all three occasions. Many different events- big and small, get organized all over the country at various locations to celebrate the three festivals.To add splendor to the festive mood, schools, colleges, squares, roads, market spaces, offices, buses etc. are all decked up with flags, balloons, flowers, fairy-lights, and drapes in tri-colour. Essay writing, poem recitation, debates, skits, fancy dress competitions, plays, and many other cultural activities are carried out as a part of these National Day Festival celebrations.In a country like India with so much cultural diversity, festivals like these really help the citizens of the country stay united.

What Are The Major National Festivals Of India? 

India is a very vast country with a wide variety of cultures, religions, etc. So, you can see diversity in festivals celebrated in India as well. These festivals are in huge numbers. Therefore, we will only discuss some of the major national festivals of India. These are as follows:

Diwali (Deepavali): It is one of the most important festivals that is celebrated all over India in October - November. This festival is marked by people - lighting earthen lamps, distributing sweets to friends, family and relatives and bursting firecrackers. 

Holi: It is also one of the most popular festivals celebrated across the country. It is also named the festival of colours as it is marked by people putting colours on each other's faces, clothes, etc. This festival is celebrated with the start of the spring season. 

Navratri: This is one of the major festivals celebrated by the Hindu community. It is celebrated all over India. Navratri is a Sanskrit word and means nine nights. So, as the name suggests, this festival lasts for nine days and nine nights. In some parts of India, people dance during this festival as well. 

Durga Puja: If we talk about the major festivals of India, we can't skip Durga Puja. This festival is celebrated all over India by millions of Hindus. It lasts for four days and during those four days, people worship Goddess Durga. All the people wear new dresses during this festival. 

Dussehra: This festival is celebrated when Navratri ends or even when Durga Puja ends. Dussehra is also known as Vijayadashami. In different parts of the country, you will see that this festival is celebrated differently. In Mysore, Dussehra is celebrated in the best possible way by decorating the Mysore Palace with dazzling lights. 

Janmashtami: It is also one of the most prominent festivals celebrated all over the country. This festival is celebrated on the day of the birth of Lord Krishna. On this day, people from all parts of India worship Krishna either at their homes or at temples. 

Ganesh Chaturthi: This festival is also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi. It is a significant festival for all the Hindus all over India. This festival marks the birth of Ganesha and is celebrated for over 10 days. 

Eid-ul-Fitr: This is one of the most important festivals for the Muslim community of India. It marks the end of Ramadan (the most sacred month for Muslims). It is celebrated on the first day of Shaban (Islamic Month). On this auspicious occasion, all the people wear new clothes, pray Eid Namaz in mosques and visit their relatives' houses. 

Christmas: This is the most popular festival in the world as it marks the birth of Jesus Christ. In India, it is celebrated on a large scale as well. It is celebrated on the 25th of December, every year and is followed by the New Year. 

There are other National Festivals that are celebrated in India as well. These include Maha Shivratri, Pongal, Onam, Baisakhi, Rakshabandhan, Gurpurab, Makar Sankranti. 

The national festivals of India are very important days to be celebrated in honor of our great leaders and to draw inspiration from their unparalleled deeds. It gives us an opportunity to keep the history of our nation close to our hearts even after so many years. It facilitates keeping aside the differences of the citizens and getting united with each other. The events organized to celebrate these days offer us to feel proud of our nation and help us to bond with our neighbors, colleagues and other near and dear ones over patriotism. Students in school develop patriotism from a very early age.

A lot of students find it very hard to write a good essay as they struggle to put the right words in the right place. If you are struggling with your essays as well and want to learn more about essay writing then this article will be very helpful for you. To write a good essay, you first need to do detailed research about the topic on which you are writing your essay. When you grasp all that information, then you should be able to pen it down in such a way that it looks attractive, and it should be able to draw the attention of readers. Your words should be simple and easy to understand and you should not make it too long as readers would get bored if they have to read a very long text. You should not write it short either as you won't be able to fit all the information in it. So, your essay should be of medium length. 

FAQs on National Festivals of India Essay

1. What are the National Festivals Commemorated in Our Country?

We have 3 national festivals, namely, Independence Day, Republic Day and Gandhi Jayanti.

2. Why are National Festivals Celebrated?

It’s to stay in touch with our country’s history and to honour those who have been brave to fight for the freedom we have today.

3. State the difference between Religious Festivals and National Festivals?

Religious festivals are celebrated differently amongst different communities whereas national festivals are celebrated by all Indians in the same way irrespective of their religion, caste or community.

4. How do I write a good essay on National Festivals in English? 

To write a good essay on the National Festivals, you first need to do detailed research on the different festivals that different people celebrate all over the country. Once you have the data related to all these festivals, you can then frame your essay accordingly. You have to go through all the important festivals and collect information about them. You can then put all that information in your essay which will make it more attractive. 

5. What are the different types of festivals celebrated in India? 

India being a secular country experiences a variety of festivals. All these festivals in one way or another bring people together. You will see a diverse range of cultures related to each of these festivals. Some of the most popular festivals celebrated in India are Diwali, Holi, Eid, Christmas, Guru Nanak Gurpurab, Onam, Pongal, etc. All these festivals are associated with different religions of India. All these festivals are a major source of happiness and joy for people across religions. 

Christian Festivals: Calendar and Events Research Paper

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Introduction

Works cited.

Christianity is one of the major religions in the world. It has its foundation on Jesus Christ and His teachings recorded in the Bible. The Christian calendar is comprised of happenings which serve as reminders of Jesus and His activities while still on earth. Among the Christian festivals, some are considered more important than others because of their significance in the development of this religion (Kelemen pg3).

They include Christmas, Easter and Pentecost. Other religious festivals that are present in the Christian religion are Ascension Day, lent and epiphany among others. Some of these festivals have fixed dates for example the Christmas day, but others have no fixed dates for example Easter.

This is one of the major Christian festivals. The word Christmas is formed from two words. ‘Christ’ which means the messiah or the anointed one and ‘mass’ which borrowed from the Roman Catholics.

It simply means death and has to do with the death of Jesus Christ. It is believed by some people that Christmas has its roots in pagan festivals and was adapted to Christianity in an attempt to win more converts into the religion (Bratcher pg1).

Symbols: Clement (pg 178) notes that candles are lit as a reminder of who Jesus Christ is. Jesus is often referred to as the light of the world and therefore the lit candles are symbolic of him as the light of the world.

The Christmas star is another symbol used during this festival. It is usually put on the tip of Christmas tree and its significance is the biblical star that proclaimed that Jesus Christ had been born. It can also show great hopes in life as a result of the birth of Jesus Clement (pg 265).Christmas tree is also another widely used symbol. It has its origin in Germany and is used as a symbol of good luck. The Christmas tree is usually decorated with many bright colored decorations.

According to Bratcher (pg 1), Christmas is supposed to be a festival to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. The exact date as to when Christmas is supposed to be celebrated has been a controversial issue over the years with some saying that it should be done in the month of September while others think that December is the month.

Others still have held the opinion that it is a pagan occasion that should not be part of the Christian calendar. With all these conflicting issues, the exact meaning of the festival has been lost.

There have been different views about this festival and the actual meaning seems to be slowly fading away (Kelemen pg 5). Many businesses see this as a time for selling a lot of their products, while others people see it as a time to relax and engage in activities like drinking of beer. The true meaning however can only be got from the bible.

Christmas is supposed to be a time for personal reflection about the birth of Jesus Christ and how this impacts ones life. Such reflections are supposed to cause one to live in a godly way knowing that the reason that Jesus was born was that He may die for the sins of the human race. This is according to the Christians Holy book, the Bible.

Easter also commonly known as the resurrection Sunday is an important festival to the Christians. This is because it is the day that Jesus rose from death and hence a reason to celebrate. This festival is believed to have stated around the fourth century. Easter was usually a time to celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Easter is not just a one day event but a season full of different activities.

Symbols and meaning

Different colors are used symbolically during Easter. For example during the lent period, purple is used to symbolize affliction. It is used to show the agony that Jesus Christ underwent before and during crucifixion. Violet can also be used as an alternative because it is also symbolic of agony and affliction.

The color black is used during Good Friday and symbolizes death. It is also symbolic of sorrowing after the death of a person by the friends and relatives.

It therefore symbolizes the death of Jesus and the mourning by His disciples and relatives. Red is used by some Christian denominations for example the Roman Catholic during Palm Sunday to symbolize the imminent death of Jesus Christ. White and gold are used during the resurrection Sunday to symbolize anticipation of rising again from the death.

It is during this day that Jesus is believed to have resurrected fro the dead. The color also signifies a new beginning for Jesus’ followers because His death and resurrection marked victory over sin and therefore people could live pure lives free from sin. Gold is used significantly to show light. Jesus Christ came as the light of the world.

Apart from the colors, there are also some foods which are eaten around this time and have their significance too. According to Olver (pg 1), these foods could be those which are directly connected with Jesus Christ, those which have their origin in the pagan community and the contemporary items.

These foods are normally used during the resurrection Sunday as it is a time of jubilation for the followers of Christ because it is believed to be the day He resurrected. Eggs are a type of foods that is used to show the new life after the death and resurrection of Jesus (Olver pg1).

People would give one another eggs which were decorated. In some parts of the world, eggs together with other foods are taken to church to be blessed and are used as breakfast during the Easter Sunday. In other countries like Germany, eggs that are used to prepare Easter foods are normally emptied without breaking the shells. These are then decorated with different things for example ribbons.

They are then used to decorate some young trees. Eggs have widely been used as a symbol during Easter season in many cultures. This has been so mainly because eggs are seen as the very beginning of life and have therefore been seen as a symbol of life. There are those who believe that eggs not only have the capacity to bring forth new life but also to predict future events.

This festival is also known as whit Sunday. Compared to Christmas and Easter, Pentecost is the least popular among the Christians. Little or no attention at all is paid to this day yet it is also equally important as the two festivals. Bratcher (pg 1) notes that the day of Pentecost usually comes seven Sundays after Easter and has its origin in the biblical Old Testament.

During those times, it was mainly an agricultural occasion but with the era of the New Testament, its meaning slowly changed. The contemporary meaning of this festival from the biblical perspective can be trace to the book of Acts chapter two when there was an outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the disciples of Jesus Christ after He ascended to Heaven.

The color red is used symbolically this day to represent the fire of the Holy Spirit that fell on the disciples as they waited on the upper room during the biblical account of Pentecost (Bratcher pg 1).

Just like Christmas and Easter, different parts of the world celebrate this day differently. In Italy for example, they recall the biblical event of Pentecost by throwing rose flowers petals from the roof top. This is specifically significant of the descending of the Holy Spirit as tongues of fire on the disciples during the Pentecost.

In other parts, for example in France, people blow trumpet. This is done during the mass and is significant of strong sound of wind that was there during the biblical Pentecost.

Although Pentecost is one of the least observed festivals in many Christian churches, it is an important occasion in the history of the church. The church is believed to have started from the events that occurred during Pentecost. This is because it is during the Pentecost that the disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit who gave them power to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ.

There are many Christian festivals, with some being more popular than others even among the non Christians. These festivals mainly revolve around Jesus Christ and His life on earth.

It is therefore important that the focus of these festivals should remain to be Jesus Christ because many of them are losing their meaning and especially due to borrowing of a lot of traditions from the secular world and also anciently from the pagans.

Although most of these festivals are celebrated by many churches around the word, some of them have been controversial in terms of their origin and the dates they are normally celebrated. For example Christmas is not usually celebrated by all Christians because some argue that Jesus Christ never commanded people to commemorate his birth but He did tell them to remember his death and resurrection.

Others still argue that Jesus was not possibly born on twenty fifth of December but around September. With all these controversies surrounding the festivals, some have argued that it is good for people to focus on the significance of the day instead of arguing about the possible dates.

Bratcher, Dennis. The Christmas Season , Pentecost, 2011. USA: CRI / Voice, Institute. Web.

Clement, Miles. Christmas Customs and Traditions: Their History and Significance . New York: Dover Publications, 1976, pp. 178, 263-271.

Kelemen, Lawrence. The Real Story of Christmas . Web.

Olver, Lynne. Easter foods: history & symbolism , 2006. Web.

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IvyPanda. (2018, May 29). Christian Festivals: Calendar and Events. https://ivypanda.com/essays/christian-festivals/

"Christian Festivals: Calendar and Events." IvyPanda , 29 May 2018, ivypanda.com/essays/christian-festivals/.

IvyPanda . (2018) 'Christian Festivals: Calendar and Events'. 29 May.

IvyPanda . 2018. "Christian Festivals: Calendar and Events." May 29, 2018. https://ivypanda.com/essays/christian-festivals/.

1. IvyPanda . "Christian Festivals: Calendar and Events." May 29, 2018. https://ivypanda.com/essays/christian-festivals/.

Bibliography

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• Paragraph Writing
• Paragraph On Festival

Paragraph on Festival - Check Samples for 100, 150, 200, 250 Words

India is known to be a beautiful country with various religions and cultures. India celebrates various types of festivals throughout the year. These festivals fall at regular intervals on the calendar, breaking the monotony of life. From these busy lives, they give us some time to live and enjoy the moments of our life. Celebrating festivals brings us joy and happiness. We create memories and life with those throughout our lives.

Table of Contents

Paragraph on festival in 100 words, paragraph on festival in 150 words, paragraph on festival in 200 words, paragraph on festival in 250 words, frequently asked questions on festivals paragraph.

Writing a paragraph on festivals? Refer to the samples provided below to get an idea about the same.

India is a vast country with various religions and various cultural practices. People with different cultural beliefs stay together in harmony. They celebrate festivals together and share love and respect with each other. Some major festivals celebrated in India are Holi, Diwali, Dussehra, Eid, Christmas, etc. The festivals can be national or religious. Some national festivals are Independence day, Republic day, Gandhi Jayanti, etc. The national festivals are celebrated together as a nation. These festivals reflect the love for the nation and share love and respect for each other. We also pay tribute to the nation and the heroes of our nation.

India is a vast country with people of various religions and cultures. Therefore, India celebrates many festivals throughout the year. The people of India celebrate all the festivals with love, care and dedication and enjoy each moment of the festival with enthusiasm.

Festivals are of two types – national festivals and regional festivals. National festivals may include Independence Day, Republic Day, Gandhi Jayanti, etc., and religious festivals include Holi, Diwali, Dussehra, Christmas, Easter, Eid, Pongal, Onam, Guru Nanak Jayanti, etc. This culture of celebrating various festivals shows the unity that underlies the rich cultural and religious diversity of India. Celebrating festivals with family and friends brings us happiness and joy. Children wait with a lot of eagerness for the festivals so that they get new clothes, eat various kinds of food, etc. Each festival is celebrated as per their ritual and with a lot of dedication. Festivals bring us together to share love, respect and care for each other.

India is a land of various religions and cultures, which teach us to live in harmony with everyone. Every festival celebrates brotherhood. Every religion has its own culture and religious beliefs. Celebrating festivals together with family and friends is a moment of joy and happiness. We forget the enmity and hatred and only remember the love and respect we have for each other. India celebrates more than thirty festivals every year. There are various national and religious festivals throughout the year, like Onam, Pongal, Holi, Dussehra, Rath Yatra, Christmas, Eid, Guru Nanak Jayanti, Gandhi Jayanti, Independence Day, Republic Day, etc. Every festival is celebrated as per its culture and religious practices with a lot of enthusiasm. Celebrating these festivals shows the unity that binds the people of India together. These celebrations commemorate our forefathers’ noble actions as well as the triumph of virtue over evil. Children wait for the festivals with a lot of eagerness and enthusiasm. People share various kinds of food and wear new dresses to celebrate the festivals. National festivals are celebrated among the people of the country, irrespective of any social denomination. These festivals are celebrated to pay tribute to the heroes of the country and to remind us of the rich and exceptional history of our country.

India is known for its rich cultural heritage. It is a diverse country with people of various religions and various cultural beliefs. People of different religions practise different cultures and traditions. Every event is dedicated to the celebration of brotherhood. Every religion has its own religious beliefs and customs. Celebrating festivals with family and friends is a joyous occasion that brings us all closer together. We forget about the hatred and enmity and just remember the love and respect we have for one other. Every year, India celebrates over thirty festivals to spread love and pleasure. Before every festival, people start their preparations a few days earlier. They go shopping, buy new dresses, various ingredients for making various food items, etc. In various cultures, people draw rangolis, decorate their houses with flowers and also whitewash their houses to bring peace and positivity. We celebrate Onam, Pongal, Holi, Dussehra, Rath Yatra, Christmas, Eid, Guru Nanak Jayanti, Gandhi Jayanti, Independence Day, Republic Day, and other national and religious festivals throughout the year. Every holiday is enthusiastically celebrated in accordance with its culture and religious beliefs. The celebration of these festivals demonstrates the solidarity of the people. Our forebears’ achievements, as well as the triumph of virtue over evil, are commemorated in these ceremonies. Festivals elicit a great deal of excitement and anticipation among children. To commemorate the festivities, people share a variety of dishes and don new outfits. National festivals are observed by all citizens of the country, regardless of religion or caste. These are commemorated to honour the country’s heroes and to pay tribute to the nation.

Why are festivals important to us?

Festivals are celebrated to break the monotony of life. We celebrate festivals to maintain our culture and religious beliefs. they are also a chance for family and friends to get together and share love and joy.

How to write a paragraph on festivals?

To write a paragraph on festivals, you can write about the major role that festivals play in everyone’s life. You can also write about the various types of festivals celebrated in the country.

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National Festivals of India Essay

India is a land of festivals. It celebrates numerous religious festivals and three national festivals. Gandhi Jayanti (2 nd October), Republic Day (26 th January) and Independence Day (15 th August) are the three national festivals celebrated in the country. The government of India has declared a national holiday on the national festivals of the country.

All the schools, colleges, offices and markets across the country are closed on these festivals. The national holidays are celebrated throughout the nation with a nationalistic and patriotic zeal. They are some of the rare festivals, which the citizens of India celebrate together beyond their divisions of caste and religion. Hindu, Muslims, Christians, rich and poor; educated and illiterate, all commemorate their freedom fighters and national heroes and reaffirm their faith in their vision and philosophy.

Long and Short Essay on National Festivals of India in English

Here we are providing short and long essays on National Festivals of India of varying lengths to help you with the topic in your exams/school assignments.

These National Festivals of India Essays have been written in simple English to let you better understand the national festivals of India and their significance.

You can select any National Festivals of India essay according to your need and requirement and present them during your school/college essay writing, speech or debate competitions.

Short Essay on National Festivals of India – Essay 1 (200 Words)

India celebrates three national festivals – Republic Day, Independence Day and Gandhi Jayanti. National festivals in India are celebrated with as much pomp and show as the religious festivals of different states. The citizens of our country are seen immersed in the feeling of patriotism on all three festivals. Various big and small events to celebrate these festivals are organized at different places throughout the country.

Schools, colleges, offices and markets are decked up with flowers, balloons, flags and tri-colour drapes to add to the festive mood. Skits, poetry recitation, debates, fancy dress competitions and various cultural programs are organized as a part of these celebrations. The celebrations at schools, offices and other institutes are mostly held a day before these festivals as the same are closed on the festival day. Various housing societies also organize get together to celebrate these festivals. They usually celebrate these during the morning hours. Cultural activities are organized, patriotic songs are played and brunch or lunch is usually arranged for the people.

These festivals are celebrated to honour our great leaders and get inspired by their deeds. The events organized to celebrate these festivals also offer a good platform to bond with our neighbours, colleagues and other near and dear ones.

Essay on National Festivals of India and their Importance – Essay 2 (300 Words)

Introduction

Independence Day, Gandhi Jayanti and Republic Day are the three national festivals of India. Each of these festivals has its own importance and relevance. These are celebrated for different reasons. Here is a brief about each of these festivals and their importance:

Independence Day

India got independence on 15 th August 1947. 15 th August every year since then is celebrated as Independence Day. The day is celebrated as a mark of respect to the freedom fighters who fought selflessly for the freedom of our country. Their heroic deeds are remembered on this day. Speeches narrating the freedom movements and the bravery of the freedom fighters are delivered to honour the great souls and inspire the youth of the country. Flag hoisting is done at various places across the country and cultural programs are organized.

Republic Day

The constitution of India came into form on 26 th January 1950. This is considered to be one of the most significant days in the history of our country. With the formation of the constitution, India became a sovereign state. 26 th January since then is celebrated at large scale in the country. The main Republic Day event is held at Rajpath in New Delhi. Parades, dances and various other cultural events are held during this event. It is a mark of respect for the constitution of India. Many small events are held across the country to celebrate this day.

Gandhi Jayanti

Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated on the 2 nd of October each year. It is the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi who was one of the most loved Indian leaders. He followed the path of truth and non-violence and was joined by numerous Indians to drive the British away. The day is celebrated to honour his ideologies and contribution towards the independence of our country.

Thus, all three national festivals of India hold special significance for its citizens. These are celebrated with great zeal across the country.

Essay on National Festivals Celebration in India – Essay 3 (400 Words)

National Festivals of our country are major events that call for major celebrations. Each of these festivals is celebrated in its own unique way. Here is how the three national festivals, Independence Day, Republic Day and Gandhi Jayanti are celebrated in India:

Independence Day Celebration

Independence Day is celebrated at the national level at Red Fort in Delhi. The Prime Minister of the country hoists the Indian National Flag on this historical site on the 15 th of August each year. The ritual started after the first Prime Minister of India, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru hoisted the flag here on 15 th August 1947 as the country attained independence from the clutches of the British rule.

21 gun shots are also fired each year as a part of the Independence Day celebration. The Prime Minister of the country then addresses the nation. Flag Hoisting is also done in various other parts of the country. Cultural programs and kite flying competitions are organized in schools, colleges, offices and residential areas across the country to celebrate the occasion.

Republic Day Celebration

The President of India who is the constitutional head of the country hoists national flag at Rajpath, New Delhi on the 26 th of January each year. This is followed by parades of National Cadet Corps and Indian Army. Vibrant and beautiful tableau demonstrating the culture of different Indian states also parade during the event. School students perform dances and give other performances on Rajpath.

The soldiers who fought bravely for the country are remembered and honoured on this day. The President awards these brave personalities with Ashoka Chakra and Kirti Chakra. The governors of different states hoist the Indian national flag in their respective states. Republic Day celebrations are also done in schools, offices and other institutions.

Gandhi Jayanti Celebration

The Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi is remembered fondly on the 2 nd of October, Gandhi Jayanti. The statues of Mahatma Gandhi are decorated with flowers on this day. Educational institutions and offices organize special events on this occasion. Speeches about the achievements and contribution of Mahatma Gandhi are delivered during such events. Prayer meetings are held and Gandhi Ji’s memorial is visited by various ministers to pay homage to the departed soul. Songs are sung in his praise. Painting and essay competitions are also held as a part of the Gandhi Jayanti celebration.

The citizens of India participate wholeheartedly in the celebration of all three national festivals of the country. The citizens are socked in love and devotion for the country during these festivals.

Essay on Importance of Celebrating National Festivals in Schools – Essay 4 (500 Words)

The Indian national festivals, Independence Day, Gandhi Jayanti and Republic Day, are celebrated in schools across the country. Since, these are all national holidays most of the schools celebrate these festivals a day before. It is time for double celebration for the students as it means no classes for two days. Here is the importance of celebrating national festivals in schools:

Independence Day is the most loved national festivals of our country. Here is the significance of celebrating this festival in schools:

• To pay Tribute to the Freedom Fighters : The first and foremost reason for Independence Day celebration in schools is to ensure that the younger generation values the sacrifices of the freedom fighters and honours them. It is a mark of respect to the freedom fighters that fought bravely for the freedom of our country.
• To Acquaint the Young Minds with Freedom Struggle : Independence Day celebrations in schools are a way to acquaint the younger generation with the struggles and hardships people went through during the British reign. Speeches are delivered and skits are performed to narrate how the freedom fighters made protests and held various freedom movements to weaken the British Empire and push them out of the country and how the general public supported them in this endeavour.
• To Celebrate the Spirit of Freedom : Independence Day celebrations are also done to celebrate the spirit of freedom. Kite flying competitions are organized at various schools to celebrate the same.
• To Instill Feeling of Patriotism in Young Generation : The celebration is also a means to instill the feeling of patriotism in the young minds – a feeling which is missing in the younger generation these days.

Republic Day celebration in schools across the country is as grand as Independence Day celebrations. Here is the importance of celebrating Republic Day in our country:

• To Emphasize the Importance of Indian Constitution : The constitution of India was formed on the 26 th of January 1950. This day is celebrated in schools each year to emphasize the importance of Indian constitution to the students.
• To Bring the Young Generation Closer to the Country : Republic Day speeches are delivered to narrate the challenges and hardships faced during the formation of the Indian constitution and the leaders involved in the same. Republic Day celebration in schools is a way of bringing the young generation closer to its country.

Here is the importance of celebrating Gandhi Jayanti in schools:

• To Inspire the Young Minds with Bapu’s Ideologies: Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated in schools to honour the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi and inspire the young minds to follow his ideologies. Young generation is motivated to follow the path of truth and non-violence listening to the inspirational life story of Bapu.
• To Instill the Feeling of Patriotism: Bapu was a true patriot. The celebration in schools across the country on his birthday is a celebration of the feeling of patriotism. It is a way to instill the students with love for their nation.

Students participate in these celebrations with enthusiasm. The entire atmosphere is infused with the feeling of patriotism.

Long Essay on National Festivals of India – Essay 5 (600 Words)

India is known as the land of festivals. Each Indian state has its own special festivals that are celebrated with enthusiasm each year. People deck up their houses, wear new clothes and visit their near and dear ones during these festivals. Besides these numerous religious festivals, the country also celebrates three national festivals. These are Independence Day, Republic Day and Gandhi Jayanti. All these festivals are celebrated with immense zeal throughout the country. Here is the history behind the celebration of these festivals and their significance:

1: Independence Day

• The Freedom Struggle

India was colonized by the British for decades. The citizens of India were treated poorly during the British reign. They were made to work hard but were paid meagrely for the same. The tyranny of the British kept increasing by the day and eventually there emerged a few Indian leaders who gathered to courage to oppose their cruel means. Freedom fighters such as Mahatma Gandhi, Chandra Shekhar Azaad, Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Sarojini Naidu did not only fight for the country but also inspired the general public to participate in the freedom struggle.

• A Day to Honour the Freedom Fighters

The efforts of the Indian freedom fighters and those who joined them for the struggle finally paid off in the year 1947. India attained freedom on 15 th August 1947 and this day each year is celebrated as Independence Day to honour and respect the great leaders who helped us attain freedom.

• A Day to Celebrate Freedom

Independence Day is also a day to celebrate freedom and independence. Several events are organised throughout the country to celebrate this day.

2: Republic Day

• A Day to Celebrate the Formation of Indian Constitution

The Government of India Act (1935) was replaced by the Constitution of India with effect from 26 th January 1950. It became the governing document of the country. Republic Day is celebrated each year as a mark of honour to the Indian constitution.

• Major Celebration Time

There is a grand celebration on Republic Day each year. This day is celebrated like no other. A major Republic Day event takes place in the country’s capital, New Delhi. The President of India hoists the national flag of the country at Rajpath. This is followed by the Indian national anthem and a host of parades. The parades and cultural events add to the colour and flavour of this national festival. Bravery awards are also awarded as a part of this event.

3: Gandhi Jayanti

• A Day to Remember the Most Revered Freedom Fighter

Mahatma Gandhi took active part in the Indian freedom struggle. He carried out various freedom movements and challenged the British at every step. 2 nd October, his birthday is celebrated by the entire nation each year to pay tribute to him.

• An Inspiration to Follow the Path of Truth and Non-Violence

The ideologies of Mahatma Gandhi were different from that of the other leaders of his time. While most of the other freedom fighters took to aggressive means to drive the British out, Mahatma Gandhi followed the path of truth and non-violence. His ideologies were not only an inspiration for the people of his own time but also for the young generation today. Gandhi Jayanti is a way to remind us of Bapu’s great ideologies and inculcate them in our lives.

Independence Day, Republic Day and Gandhi Jayanti are indeed special days for the Indians. These have been declared as national holidays. People across the country celebrate these festivals with all their heart. Schools, offices, markets and housing societies are all decked up with tri-colour ribbons, balloons and flags during these festivals. Patriotic songs are played to fill the atmosphere with the feeling of patriotism on these festivals.

Long Essay on National Festivals of India – Essay 6 (800 Words)

Festivals play an important role in a country depicting its cultural and traditional values. Apart from religious festivals, each country also has some national festivals which are of national importance. These festivals play a vital role in spreading harmony, unity and patriotism in the country. It also reminds us about the struggle and sacrifices which helped the country to rise against all the odds and stand as a free and independent nation.

National festivals of India majorly revolve around the Indian independence and how it rose up against all the odds. India has three national festivals mainly Republic Day, Independence Day and Gandhi Jayanti which are celebrated across the country with great zeal.

Why do we Celebrate National Festivals

National festivals are a way by which we pay tribute to our freedom fighters and great leaders who sacrificed their lives for the nation without a second thought. It also commemorates the great historical events of the country which has shaped the structure of the nation both politically as well as socially. It helps to keep alive the rich heritage of our country and introduce the young generation with great historical culture and values. These national festivals are also a way to spread peace, harmony and togetherness among people and make a country which is united and strong.

Republic Day in India is the national festival which is celebrated on 26 th January every year to commemorate the great historic event when Constitution of India came into force. This was the great day which made India a Sovereign Democratic Republic nation and secured the rights of Justice, Liberty, Equality and Fraternity to all its citizens.

The Constitution of India was the result of the hard work and dedication of the members of the Drafting Committee headed by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar which was adopted by the Constituent Assembly on 26 th November, 1949 and was implemented on 26 th January 1950. The Constitution of India gave the rights in the hands of its citizen to choose a government which is by the people, of the people and for the people and provided the basic fundamental rights to its citizen so that they can live with dignity and liberty without any fear or force.

Independence Day is the day when India got freedom from darkest era of British rule. It was 15 th August, 1947 when India fought with all the odds against British rule and rose up to become an independent nation. The path towards becoming an independent nation was not easy and was constructed with the sweat and blood of our great freedom fighters who fought against the harsh policies of the British Empire and sacrificed their lives in the course.

It was because of our young freedom fighters like Bhagat Singh, Chandrashekhar Azad, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and others who forced to set down the inglorious empire of the British rule and made India to rise up to a new era of an independent nation. Independence Day not only helps to commemorate this great day but also reminds us about the sacrifices of our great leaders and freedom fighters.

Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated on 02 nd October to mark the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi who is considered as the ‘Father of the Nation’. Mahatma Gandhi was the face of the non-violent Indian freedom struggle who played a vital role in the journey of free India.

The Non-Cooperation, Quit India and Salt Movement (Namak Satyagrah) shook the foundation of the British rule and that also without shedding a drop of blood or lifting a single weapon. It was because of his great contribution that India got its freedom on 15 th August, 1947. Gandhi Jayanti also instills his great teachings in the hearts of the people and makes them follow his principles of non-violence, truthfulness, and honesty.

National Festivals Celebration in India

All three national festivals of India are celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotism throughout the country. These are the festivals which bind the nation with a single string of unity, harmony and brotherhood. The tricolor can be seen flying high in every home on the occasion of national festivals. The major celebration takes place in the national capital where President and Prime Minister of India hoist the national flag and takes the salute of the parade.

On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, nation pays homage to the Father of the Nation. Dignitaries and members of all political parties pay tribute to Bapu at Rajghat, the memorial place of Mahatma Gandhi. Every school, institutions and offices celebrate the national festival with great pride and patriotism remembering the freedom fighters and their immense sacrifice for the nation.

National festivals are of supreme importance for the citizens of India. These festivals remind us the significance of freedom, democracy and peace. These festivals are celebrated by each and every community and a way of spreading unity and harmony among people. Republic Day teaches us the value of democracy whereas Independence Day makes us understand the significance of an independent nation and Gandhi Jayanti gives us the message of ‘Ahimsa’ or non-violence and peace.

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Essay on Indian Festivals in English for Children and Students

Table of Contents

Essay on Indian Festivals: Festivals are significant days of celebration and excitement. They are commemorated by each religion to mark the most important occasions. India is a land of festivals. There are many national, religious and seasonal festivals celebrated throughout the year.

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There are festivals for every season and every occasion. The festivals are an expression of the joy of the people of India. They are a part of the rich cultural heritage of India. They bring people together and bind them in a common bond of brotherhood and sisterhood. They create a sense of unity and solidarity among the people.

People of India love their festivals and celebrate even the less significant ones with enthusiasm. India is a land of different religions and cultures; hence, every religion has its own festivals and customs. Despite the diversity, every festival is celebrated together by the people of various faiths and beliefs. Festivals of India reflect the rich cultural heritage of its people; their faith in each other’s religious beliefs; mutual harmony among the people of India and their love for the nation and its heritage.

Long and Short Essay on Indian Festivals in English

Here we are giving essay on Indian Festivals of varying lengths to help you with the topic in your exam.

You can select any essay on Indian Festivals as per your need in your school’s essay writing competition, debate or speech giving.

After reading the essay on Indian Festivals you will get a close idea of the festivals of India and their significance for the people of India.

You will also know that how the festivals are a way of keeping centuries old traditions and beliefs alive among the masses.

Short Essay on Indian Festivals 200 words

Indians give special importance to their festivals. Special arrangements are made for the celebration of various festivals each year. Be it the villages or the big cities there is joy all around. All the places are decked up during the festival season. Some of the main Indian festivals include Diwali, Holi, Raksha Bandhan, Ganesh Chaturthi, Durga Puja, Dussehra, Pongal and Bhai Duj.

Festivals hold a special place in our country’s customs and traditions. They serve as a way to show respect to the gods and goddesses and bring about a sense of peace and joy. India is a diverse nation, with people from various religions and cultures coming together as one.

People in our country love celebrating the festivals with their near and dear ones. Each Indian festival has its own unique way of celebration and people follow the tradition while celebrating the same. However, some things remain common for instance people decorate their houses with flowers and lights during the festivals and wear new clothes. They visit each other and exchange gifts. Special sweets are prepared at home to treat the guests.

People of India also hold great regard for the National festivals of the country. Gandhi Jayanti, Independence Day and Republic Day are the three national festivals of our country. These festivals are a symbol of unity and progress. They remind us of our patriotic leaders who served the country selflessly. National festivals are celebrated with equal zeal. The entire atmosphere is filled with the feeling of patriotism during these festivals.

All in all, Indians celebrate both religious and National festivals with great enthusiasm. Children as well as elders look forward to the festive celebrations.

Essay on Indian Festivals 300 words

In India festival time is awaited all year round particularly by the students. They look forward to the festivals owing to various reasons. One of the main reasons for this is that the schools and colleges are closed during the festivals and this offers a respite from the mundane routine and strict study schedule. Students also love festivals as it is time to meet their cousins and relatives who bestow them with gifts. Besides, they get to eat a lot of delicious sweets and wear new dresses.

Celebrations in Schools/Colleges

Festivals in India are not only celebrated at home with family but are also celebrated in schools and colleges. The educational institutes are decked up with flowers, lights, beautiful posters and colourful drapes during festivals. Students are asked to come in ethnic wear to add to the colour of the festivals.

The usual classroom sessions are replaced by fun activities on these days. Cultural programs and other interesting activities form a part of the festive celebrations in schools and colleges. Students as well as teachers participate in these activities whole heartedly and the entire atmosphere is filled with joy and laughter.

These celebrations are usually done a day before the festival as it is a holiday on the day of the festival.

Understanding the Cultural Roots

Indian festivals are a reflection of the culture of the country. The celebrations held on the festivals acquaint the students with the culture and tradition of our country. Each festival has a religious connotation and a tradition attached to it. Festival time is a great opportunity to make the students understand about the cultural roots of our country and help them connect with it.

Indian festivals are thus important for the students in more than one way. These are a great way to bond with the near and dear ones and also to know about the country’s rich cultural past.

Long Essay on Indian Festivals 400 words

Indians give special importance to their festivals. Be it regional festivals or national festivals – all the festivals in our country are celebrated with love and joy. There is holiday in schools, colleges and offices on most of these festivals.

Religious Connotation Renders Importance to Festivals

The importance of festivals in India can very well be seen in the way these are celebrated. People do not only celebrate festivals at home but also visit their near and dear ones to celebrate them together. The celebrations are also done in schools and workplaces. Our culture holds high regard for religious practices. People in India are mostly God fearing.

Since, the Indian festivals have certain religious connotations attached to them, Indians celebrate these with all their heart to please their deities and bring in positivity and happiness in their life. For instance, Diwali is celebrated to celebrate Lord Rama’s return to his home town, Ayodhya. Janamashtmi celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, Durga Puja is celebrated to offer prayers to Goddess Durga and her various avtars and Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated to offer prayers to Lord Ganesh.

Festival Time is Considered Auspicious

Festival time is considered to be auspicious as per the Hindu religion. This is another reason why people give so much importance to this time. They wait for this time to start anything new in life so as to begin on a good note. For instance, people believe moving to new house during Navratri or on the occasion of Diwali brings in good luck, similarly joining a new job during the Ganesh festival or on Makar Sankranti can prove to be good for them.

Similarly, many other festivals such as Baisakhi, Guru Purnima, Pongal, Maha Shivratri, Rama Navami, Basant Panchami and Akshaya Tritiya are considered highly auspicious and are specially awaited to begin with something new such as buying a new shop, starting a business, signing a big business deal, fixing wedding date, etc.

National Festivals are Equally Important

Our national festivals especially Independence Day reminds us of the struggle and sacrifice that our people went through to gain independence. All three national festivals of India are given special importance. The whole country gets immersed in patriotism during this time. These festivals are celebrated in full swing across the country. These are a way to pay respect to our brave patriotic leaders.

Thus, festivals hold high importance for Indians. Whether they live in India or abroad, Indians give special importance to their festivals and celebrate them with joy and happiness.

Essay on Indian Festivals 500 words

India is often called the land of festivals because of the numerous colourful and joyous festivals celebrated here. People belonging to different castes, culture and tradition reside in different parts of our country. Each religion has its set of festivals based on its religious beliefs.

The people belonging to the south have their own festivals; people from the north give importance to some other festivals while those living in the East celebrate some other festivals. However, there are certain festivals that are celebrated throughout the country with equal enthusiasm. Some such festivals include Diwali, Holi and Raksha Bandhan.

Main Festivals of India

The main festivals of India are the ones that people belonging to all the religions and regions in our country look forward to and celebrate with great fervour. Here are some of these festivals:

Diwali is one of the main festivals of our country. People celebrate it with great joy and enthusiasm. The preparation for its celebration begins almost a month before the festival. People clean their houses and shop for decorative items to deck up their place. The houses are decorated with lights, candles and diyas. People make rangolis, worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha and burn fire crackers to celebrate this festival. The entire country lights up on this day.

Holi is the festival of colour. It is one of the most fun-filled Indian festivals. Though it has a religious connotation to it, the whole purpose on this day is to have fun and let lose. People apply colour on each other and eat sweets. This festival is celebrated collectively in housing societies and residential colonies.

People gather around to colour each other and throw water on one another as a part of Holi celebration. Loud music is played at most places and people groove to the beats of foot tapping songs as they enjoy this festival. At some places, people even beat each other with sticks and throw mud on each other as a tradition.

• Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan is yet another Indian festival which is celebrated all across the country. This festival is celebrated to strengthen the brother-sister bond. Sisters visit their brothers on this day and tie rakhi on their wrist. The brothers in turn promise to protect their sisters and be there for them in the hour of need. This is followed by exchange of sweets. The brothers also bring special gifts for their sisters on this day. Those who cannot visit each other send rakhi and gifts via post.

This is indeed a beautiful tradition which is being followed since ages. There are many mythological stories behind the celebration of Raksha Bandhan. This is not only a time for the brothers and sisters to bond but is also a time to strengthen the familial ties. The celebration takes place early in the morning and it is followed by family brunch.

Ganesh Chaturthi, Janamashtmi, Navratri, Eid Ul Fitr, Baisakhi, Onam, Pongal, Bihu, Gurupurab, Navratri, Guru Purnima, Ram Navami, Vasant Panchami, Durga Puja, Chhath and Dussehra are among some of the other festivals that are celebrated with immense zeal in different parts of India with some of these being specific to a particular region. No wonder, our country is called a land of festivals.

Long Essay on Indian Festivals 600 words

Indian festivals are based on religious beliefs. Indians worship various Gods and Goddesses and the various festivals they celebrate are dedicated to one deity or the other. These festivals are a way to offer prayers to the deities and seek their blessings to bring in happiness, prosperity and love.

Indian Festivals Based on Religious Beliefs

Here are some of the Indian festivals and the religious beliefs attached to them:

It is believed that it was the day when Lord Rama killed Ravana to free Sita from his clutches. It marks the victory of the good over the evil. Huge effigies of Ravana, Kumbhkaran and Meghnath are burned in different parts of the country on this day to celebrate the occasion.

Diwali or Deepawali is said to be the day when Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshman after an exile of 14 years. The entire town was lit with diyas to welcome them. The occasion is celebrated until today. Each year, people clean their houses and deck them up with lights, diyas and candles to celebrate the return of Lord Rama.

Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi are worshipped during the evening hours on this day as it is believed that this brings in prosperity and good luck.

The auspicious nine days of Navratras are dedicated to Goddess Durga. It is said that Goddess Durga was created jointly by Lord Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva and was bestowed with power by all these Gods to render strength to her. She was created to kill demon Mahishasura who had been killing innocent people. Goddess Durga fought with him for nine days and beheaded him on the tenth day. This again was the battle between the good and evil and it was the good that emerged victorious.

People observe fast during navratras and worship different avatars of Goddess Durga each day to seek her blessings.

• Ganesh Chaturthi

Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated to rejoice the birth day of Lord Ganesha. The festivities continue for ten days. It is believed that Lord Ganesha comes to Earth during these days every year and spreads joy everywhere. His devotees believe that whoever worships Lord Ganesha during these days is freed from all the problems and negativity in life.

Idols of Lord Ganesha are brought home and prayers are sung in his praise every day. These idols are then immersed in river on the last day of the pooja.

• Makar Sankranti

Makar Sankranti is another major Hindu festival. It is known by different names in different parts of the country. In Assam it is known by the name Bihu, in Tamil Nadu it is referred to as Pongal, in Gujarat it is called Uttarayan and in Bengal it is known as Poush Parbon. The day is extremely auspicious for the Hindus. It is believed that taking holy dip in the sacred river Ganga on this day can help get rid of all the bad deeds and cleanses ones aura.

• Karva Chauth

This is mostly celebrated in North India. On this day, women observe fast for the long life of their husbands. It is believed that fasting on this day pleases God who renders good health and long life to the husbands. Women don’t eat or drink anything during the day. They dress up traditionally during the evening and perform pooja. They have food and water only after seeing the moon at night.

Similarly, Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated to commemorate the birthday of Lord Krishna, Maha Shivratri is celebrated to offer prayers to Lord Shiva and Gurpurab is celebrated to rejoice the birth of Guru Nanak Dev, the first Sikh guru.

Apart from the National festivals of India, all the other festivals have some religious beliefs tied to them. On these festivals, people offer prayers to their deities, wear ethnic clothes and make merry with their near and dear ones.

Essay on Indian Festivals FAQs

How can i write an essay on festivals of india.

To write an essay on festivals of India, begin by choosing a specific festival, research its significance, traditions, and cultural impact, then organize your thoughts into an introduction, body, and conclusion.

What is a festival essay?

A festival essay is a written piece that discusses the importance, customs, and celebrations of a particular festival, often focusing on cultural and social aspects.

What is festival in 50 words?

A festival is a special occasion or event celebrated by a group of people, often characterized by joy, rituals, and a sense of togetherness.

What is festival essay in English?

A festival essay in English is a composition that explores the customs, significance, and celebrations of a particular festival in the English language.

What is festival in simple words?

In simple words, a festival is a special, happy occasion when people come together to celebrate and enjoy traditions, often involving feasting, music, and cultural activities.

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Essay On Eid

500 words essay on eid.

Eid is a religious festival which Muslims all over the world celebrate. It marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan . After 30 days of fasting, Eid is the first day after that month when Muslims do not fast and enjoy their day fully. Through an Essay on Eid, we will go through the festival and its celebration.

Eid Rituals

Muslims celebrate the religious festival of Eid every year. This day marks the end of Ramadan so they eat their heart out on this day. Prophet Muhammad started this tradition in Mecca first.

It is believed that the Prophet Muhammad reached Medina on this day. During Eid, people raise their spirits high and enjoy a lot. They start preparing for Eid before a month. The excitement begins at the onset of Ramadan.

Women start preparing their dresses, bangles, accessories beforehand. On the other hand, men prepare for their traditional kurta and pyjamas. When people sight the moon for Eid, they wish everyone ‘ Chand Mubarak’ as it confirms the day of Eid.

Women and girls also apply Mehendi on their hand beautifully. Similarly, houses are painted and decorated as well. Before Eid, Muslims fast, give charity, offer prayers, and perform other good deeds during the holy month of Ramadan.

Thus, on the day of Eid, everyone enjoys their day. It is a ritual to prepare sweet vermicelli known as sewaiyyan. It is prepared with two different methods and is famous worldwide.

Similarly, other delicacies like kebabs, biryani, korma and more are prepared. It is for the guests to relish and have a hearty meal with their near and dear ones.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Eid Celebrations

When Eid arrives, everyone wakes up early in the morning. They take a bath and adorn their new attires. The women offer prayers at home while the men visit the mosque to offer prayers in the form of Namaaz.

Meanwhile, the food starts preparing at home. After the men are done offering prayers, they embrace each other and exchange Eid greetings. They wish Eid Mubarak to each other and hug three times alternately.

Then, people go over to their friends and relatives house to exchange greetings. The guests eat Sewaiyyan when they visit their dear ones. Another interesting part which youngsters love is Eidi.

Eidi is a gift they receive from the elders in the form of money. Thus, children enjoy receiving Eidi and then buy their favourite things from that money. Everyone enjoys a  lot on Eid and eat to their heart’s delight.

Conclusion of Essay On Eid

Being the festival of joy and celebration, Eid brings about a lot of happiness in everyone’s lives. It serves as a reward to people who fast the whole month and enjoy on Eid like it’s their feast. In other words, it is a reward for all the good deeds people have done during Ramadan. Thus, it spreads joy and brotherhood.

FAQ on Essay On Eid

Question 1: What is the importance of Eid?

Answer 1: Eid ul-Fitr is a very important festival for Muslims. It is vital in the Islamic calendar and Prophet Muhammad himself started it. People refer to it as ‘The Feast of Breaking the Fast’ and Muslims worldwide celebrate it to mark the end of Ramadan.

Question 2: How do Muslims celebrate Eid?

Answer 2: Eid traditionally start with prayers then a short sermon follows. In some countries, the prayers occur outside, while others are hosted in mosques or large halls. After the prayers, Muslims wish everyone around them a Happy Eid. After that, they visit their relatives and friends to enjoy each other and have a feast.

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Essay on Is Pongal a Religious Festival

Festivals are celebrations that represent culture, tradition, or religious significance. The people commemorate every kind of happiness and significant day in form of festivals. India is a nation that harvests people of different religions. Every religion celebrates numerous festivals that have and signify their religious importance. People from ancient times love to celebrate every important day and that becomes a festival which is carried on from one generation to another.

Short and Long Essay on Is Pongal a Religious Festival in English

I have tried my best to put down the best information and facts about Pongal in the essay below. It will be helpful in providing elaborate information on the topic to students and readers.

Is Pongal a Religious Festival Essay 10 Lines (100 – 150 Words)

1) Pongal is a famous festival celebrated by the people of south India.

2) It is also referred to as the harvest festival and is observed in January.

3) This is a thanksgiving festival to God for a good harvest.

4) Women prepare special food called ‘Pongal’ from newly harvested crops.

5) The food is first offered to the sun and then to the people.

6) Things that are essential for farming practices are worshipped on this day.

7) Pongal is a seasonal festival celebrated by some states of South India.

8) No mythological beliefs are associated with this festival.

9) It is a four-day festival that is celebrated as Bhogi Pongal, Surya Pongal, Mattu Pongal, and Kanum Pongal.

10) People celebrate Pongal with great joy and enthusiasm.

Short Essay on Is Pongal a Religious Festival (250 words)

Introduction

Pongal is an important Hindu festival that is observed in South India. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy by the people of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and Pondicherry. It is stated as the harvest festival and is celebrated in the mid of January month.

The appropriate meaning of Pongal is “boiling over”. The festival of Pongal is a four days festivity. The days are named Bhogi Pongal, Surya Pongal, Mattu Pongal, and Kanum Pongal. Every four days of the Pongal celebration has an important significance. The culture and tradition of the people of south India are best represented in this festivity.

Rituals of Pongal Celebration

The houses are cleaned and decorated by the people before the onset of Pongal. They celebrate the harvest festival Pongal with great fervor. The sweet dish called ‘Pongal’ that is cooked by women in decorated earthen pots is an important tradition of this festival. It is prepared by the newly harvested rice, milk, jaggery, and spices. The dish is first offered to the Surya God and then consumed by people.

The people worship natural forces like wind, sun, rain, and thanks for the good harvest of crops. The cattle are also worshipped by the people on the third day of the Pongal celebration. People wish each other and enjoy the sweet dish Pongal with their family and friends. The younger members of the family take blessings by touching the feet of their elders and receive gifts in return.

The main motive behind celebrating the festival of Pongal is to pay gratitude to God for the good harvest of crops. They also ask for a blessing from God to continue the same in the future too. Thus it will be more appropriate to state the festival of Pongal as a harvest festival rather than saying it a religious festival.

Long Essay on Is Pongal a Religious or Seasonal Festival (1000 Words)

India is an agricultural country. Most of the people in the nation depend on agriculture to earn their living and expenditures. Farmers consider the fields, yield of crops, and cattle as their real wealth. People celebrate the good harvest of crops in form of festivals. They express their gratitude and also worship the forces of nature like the sun, wind, water, and soil. Pongal is observed as a fest that is celebrated by the people of a particular region to pay gratitude to God for the good harvest of the crops in the year.

What is Pongal?

When we spell the world Pongal, it might happen that maximum people cannot recognize the festival. Many would have heard the name for the first time. It is because this festival is celebrated by the people of south India. The word Pongal stands for ‘Boil’.

Pongal is a festival that is celebrated by the people of Tamil Nadu, a south-Indian state. This festival is associated with Makar Sankranti. The people of different states celebrating Makar Sankranti worship Sun God and the same is observed in Pongal. The difference lies in the rituals, traditions, and way of celebrating the festival. The festival Pongal is celebrated in the mid of January that is regarded as the month of harvest i.e. 14th or 15th of January. Rain, Sun, cattle that are regarded as essential for farming practices are worshipped at this festival.

Significance and Specialty of this Festival

The festival does not have any religious significance. It is celebrated by the people to thank God and nature for giving the good yield of crops and worship for the blessing for the future harvest. This festival is basically celebrated in the harvesting season of the crops like rice, sugarcane, etc. This day is determined by the sun entering into Capricorn Zodiac. Sun starts marching towards the Northern hemisphere which is a sign of changing the duration of day and night and gradually season.

A sweet delicacy “Pongal dish” which is made up of milk, newly harvested rice and Jaggery is the most significant tradition on this occasion. These constituents are boiled together and cooked. Dry fruits, cardamom seeds, flavoring agents can be added according to the choice. A beautiful scene of the community bond can be seen in the festival. Women in certain areas cook this sweet dish together near the temple. The dish is cooked in earthen pots under the sun. It is offered to God after being cooked and later distributed as Prasad among the people.

Commemoration of Pongal in Different Ways (Types of Pongal Festival)

The festival Pongal involves four days of festivity. Each day of the festival has its own relevance. The days along with their importance and celebration are mentioned below:

Day 1 : Boghi Pongal

• It represents the beginning of the festival. People clean and decorate their houses before the arrival of the festival.
• People on this day worship God Indra to thank and request to keep enriched with blessings. Indra is considered to be the god of rains and rain is very important for the growth and good yield of the crops.
• The old and unwanted materials are discarded and burnt on this day. People lit the bonfire and throw the materials in the fire and perform a dance around it. The bonfire help in keeping the temperature warm as January is a colder month.

Day 2 : Surya Pongal

• It is the second day of the festival and is devoted to God Surya.
• The sweet Pongal dish is prepared on this day and the sweet dish is first offered to Surya Dev.
• The dish is prepared using earthen pots decorated with turmeric and flowers and is made in the open sun.
• The women sing songs in praise of God and shout Pongalo-Pongal, when the rice boils that symbolizes a rich harvest in the future.

Day 3 : Mattu Pongal

• The third day of the festival is dedicated to the cow, bullocks, and cattle.
• People express their gratitude to the cattle for their help in getting a good harvest. Secondly for providing milk, fertilizer, transport, etc.
• The animals are decorated with flowers and are fed with fruits and meals after worshipping them.

Day 4 : Kanum Pongal

• The ending of the festival is marked by Kanum Pongal, Kanum means visiting.
• People visit and their relatives and close ones to wish each other. Children visit their relatives to greet their elders with respect and receive their blessings.
• People meet in groups to wish each other; exchange gifts and enjoy the festivity.
• The leftover Pongal dish is placed outside the house on the turmeric leaf. It is kept to feed the birds and this ritual is termed as ‘Kanu Pidi’. Girls pray for the well-being of their brothers and receive gifts from brothers which represent a bond of love and care between brothers and sisters.

Is Pongal a Religious Festival ?

A religious festival is one that posses a spiritual significance and is based on religion. Pongal is popularly known as the harvest festival. It also marks the change of season and duration of day and night, so is termed as the seasonal festival and celebrated in a particular region by Tamil people of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry in India. Whereas, religious festivals are related to a particular religion and have some story or reason behind their celebration.

Pongal does not have such mythological beliefs or stories related to its celebration. It is celebrated by the people to express their thanks to God and nature for benefitting from a good harvest. Seasonal festivals are celebrated in a particular region to mark the starting of a new season or harvest of the crops. It will be appropriate to mention Pongal as a seasonal festival rather than stating it as a religious festival.

Pongal is the festival that pays importance to our farmers. The intense labour of the farmers along with the blessing of nature and God gives a good result in form of higher productivity of grains. It is not possible without farmers who are the provider of food to the entire nation. The festival brings prosperity, positivity, joy, happiness, and a feeling of togetherness. The culture and tradition are purely depicted in the rituals performed by the people of south India.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

Ans . Pongal is a harvest festival celebrated by the people of Tamil Nadu in south-India.

Ans . God Indra, Sun God, and cattle are worshipped by the people during the three days of Pongal festivity.

Ans . No, it is a harvest festival celebrated by the people of South India.

Ans . The traditional ‘Pongal Dish’ made from the harvested rice, milk, and sugarcane is the sweet delicacy prepared on Pongal.

Ans . The old non-useful household items are burned in Bhogi fire which represents the end of negativity with a new spirit for life.

Ans . It is a bull sport organized during the harvest festival, that involves the running of the bull in the sports ground and people participating in the festival try to stop the bull by grabbing the hump of a bull.

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