The festivals of India are the most concrete manifestation of the Indian culture and tradition. Their origin and social relevance is related to our rich cultural heritage. Every Indian festival is an occasion to rejoice. India is a secular country, but the majority in India are the Hindus. So the festivals which are celebrated all over India with great pomp and show are Hindu festivals.
Diwali comes as an occasion of fun, joy and frenzy. Young hearts burst many colourful and glittering crackers. To the adults, it gives a vague joy, sense of release, an undercurrent of pathos and nostalgia. They pray Goddess Lakshmi for wealth and prosperity on Diwali day.
Holi, the festival of colours is the most representative festival of India. It sweeps away barrier and distinction,and takes man as man.
Durga Puja is celebrated all over India with great hope, pleasure and devotion. Raksha Bandhan is a tender festival with deep symbolical significance of deep love and pledge for security between a brother and sister.
Janmasthami and Ramnabami, the birthday of Lord Krishna and Lord Ram are celebrated with great devotion. Lord Ganesh and Mata Saraswati are worshipped to give knowledge and wisdom.
The festivals of minor communities like Id of Muslims, Christmas of Christians and Guruparab of Sikhs are also celebrated smoothly all over India.
Hence, the festivals of India have great social and cultural values. They take away the tedium of routine labour. They spread the message of love and brotherhood. They assist in national integration.