Unit 2 Hinduism

Festivals

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

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

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

Holi Activities

light a bonfire (signifies the burning of evil) squirting coloured

water on friends and family

distribute and eat sweets and other foods

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

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

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

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’