Haryana is a state situated in north India. It shares its borders with Punjab and Himachal Pradesh in the north, Rajasthan in the west and south and Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh in the east. It is a part of the National Capital Region. Chandigarh serves as the capital of Haryana.
Haryana is taken from the Sanskrit words Hari meaning the Hindu God Vishnu and ayana meaning (home).
The state of Haryana is a perfect blend of the old and new. Haryana has witnessed the rule of many civilizations and cultures. Haryana celebrates numerous fairs and festivals that are unique to the state. All the festivals in the state are celebrated with a traditional fervor and enthusiasm.
Almost every Indian festival is celebrated in Haryana. Haryana consists of people belonging to different castes and cultures who coexist in harmony. There are also a host of fairs that are unique to Haryana. The fairs and festivals of Haryana promise to take you away from the monotony of a routine life.
Fairs and Festivals of Haryana
Below is a list of the important Festivals of Haryana
Lohri
Lohri is one of the most popular festivals in Haryana. Lohri marks the end of winter and welcomes the season of fertility. It is celebrated every year on 13 January just before Makar Sankranti. Lohri is actually meant for the Punjabis, but the entire state celebrates it with equal joy and fervor. On the day of Lohri people burn huge bonfires and throw sweets, puffed rice and popcorn into the flames. They make circles around the fire, sing songs, dance and exchange greetings. People also pray around the fire which symbolizes Agni or the spark of life.
Haryana Day
This is amongst the most exciting festivals in Haryana. It is celebrated on 1 September every year. It is named so because it was on this day that the birth of Tourism took place in Haryana, which is the Haryana Tourism Corporation came into existence. The day is celebrated with a lot of zest and enthusiasm in the state. There are a number of events that are held in the different parts of the state. One of the most popular events is the Cycle race that is held from Chandigarh to Panchkula.
Pinjore Heritage Festival
The Pinjore Heritage Festival takes place at Pinjore. Pinjore is a small town that is located at a distance of 20 kilometers from Chandigarh. Pinjore is home some to some of the best terraced gardens in the country. These gardens belong to the Mughal era in India and were planned by Fidai Khan during the reign of Jehangir.
Gangore
Gangore is a festival dedicated to Gauri, the goddess of abundance. It is celebrated every year on Chet Sudi-3. People take out processions carrying the idol of Gangore. People carry the image of the idol from one village to another and finally immerse it into the river. This festival is specially meant for young girls who dress up with new clothes and pray for good husbands. Married ladies also pray for the well being of their partners.
Baisakhi
Baisakhi is another major festival celebrated in Haryana. Baisakhi marks the beginning of the Punjabi New Year. It is celebrated in April every year. On this day all the Sikhs visit the Gurdwaras and pray for peace and happiness. After praying they are served with kada prasad after which there is a langar, which is the best part of the festival. The entire community gets together and enjoys a feast.
Gugga Naumi
This is a festival that is unique to Haryana. Gugga Naumi is a religious festival, in connection with snake-worship. It is observed in the months of August-September. People worship Gugga Pir or Zahir Pir (the saint) who was reputed for having the power of curing people of dangerous snake bites.
Below is a list of the important Fairs of Haryana
Surajkund
The Surajkund Craft is a popular art and craft fair held in Surajkund. Surajkund is situated at a distance of 20 Km from Delhi. It is one of the most popular art and crafts fair held in the region. The fair is held every year in the month of February. The Surajkund fair highlights the finest handloom and handicrafts produced in the country. The objective of the fair is to educate both foreign and domestic patrons about the various technique and skills applied behind the creation of the crafts. It also helps the poor craftsman by introducing them directly to buyers.
Kartik Fair
The Kartik Fair is also a significant fair held every year in Haryana. The fair is held with the objective of promoting various kinds of arts in the state like; classical music, martial arts, dance and folk music. This fair is held in the month of November at the Nahar Singh Mahal.
Last Updated on : 1st April 2013
