1. Unit 2 Hinduism
Festivals

2. Diwali – Festival of Lights
late October, early November)
Most popular celebration in India
For many Hindus (in North) , Diwali is New Years Eve
Celebrations last 5 nights (in Canada, 1 night)
Honours:Lakshimi – goddess of wealth and good fortune
Vishnu – defeated the demon Naraka & Rama’s return to his kingdom after defeating Ravana

3. Diwali activities Set off fireworks decorate their houses with lights
give gifts
wear new clothes
celebrate triumph of good and knowledge over the dark forces of evil and ignorance
feast (lavish vegetarian dishes)
gambling – a way of ensuring good luck
Puja at sunset

4. Holi – Festival of Colour
full moon day in March
Agricultural festival honouring the arrival of spring
Myth origins: Young Prahalad was resented by his wicked father for being so devoted to Vishnu. His evil aunt tried to burn him but instead she was burned to ash
good overcomes evil

5. Holi Activities light a bonfire (signifies the burning of evil)
squirting coloured water on friends and family
distribute and eat sweets and other foods

6. Maha shivaratri – The Night of Lord Shiva
New moon, Feb
Special event dedicated to lord Shiva
Devotees worship Shiva, keep vigil, and fast for 24 hours
Said to the be night that Shiva married Paravati and performed the Tandava or the dance of primordial creation, preservation and destruction

7. Maha shivaratri Activities
Recite Shiva’s name between midnight and sunrise
Place flowers and grain on Shiva’s his image
Gifts
pour water in a steady stream from a copper vessel over his image

8. Navratri – Nine Nights Festival
The beginning of spring and the beginning of autumn – equinox
agricultural religion
The 9 nights - to revel in the knowledge of the goddesses that live within us

9. Navratri Activities Nights 1-3
worship the goddess Durga (manifestation of Paravati) –
believed to wash away laziness and evil thoughts
Nights 4-6
with a pure mind, offer puja to Lakshimi – goddess of wealth and good fortune
Nights 7-9
worship Saraswati – goddess of knowledge and learning
10th day, worshippers observe the ‘day of victory’