GREAT FOUNDERS

ARYABHATT (476 CE)

MASTER ASTRONOMER AND MATHEMATICIAN

Born in 476 CE in Kusumpur ( Bihar ), Aryabhatt's intellectual brilliance remapped the boundaries of mathematics and astronomy. In 499 CE, at the age of 23, he wrote a text on astronomy and an unparallel treatise on mathematics called "Aryabhatiyam." He formulated the process of calculating the motion of planets and the time of eclipses. Aryabhatt was the first to proclaim that the earth is round, it rotates on its axis, orbits the sun and is suspended in space - 1000 years before Copernicus published his heliocentric theory. He is also acknowledged for calculating p (Pi) to four decimal places: 3.1416 and the sine table in trigonometry. Centuries later, in 825 CE, the Arab mathematician, Mohammed Ibna Musa credited the value of Pi to the Indians, "This value has been given by the Hindus." And above all, his most spectacular contribution was the concept of zero without which modern computer technology would have been non-existent. Aryabhatt was a colossus in the field of mathematics.

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BHASKARACHARYA II (1114-1183 CE)

                                                                     GENIUS IN ALGEBRA

Born in the obscure village of Vijjadit (Jalgaon) in Maharastra, Bhaskaracharya's work in Algebra, Arithmetic and Geometry catapulted him to fame and immortality. His renowned mathematical works called "Lilavati" and "Bijaganita" are considered to be unparalled and a memorial to his profound intelligence. Its translation in several languages of the world bear testimony to its eminence. In his treatise " Siddhant Shiromani " he writes on planetary positions, eclipses, cosmography, mathematical techniques and astronomical equipment. In the " Surya Siddhant " he makes a note on the force of gravity: "Objects fall on earth due to a force of attraction by the earth. Therefore, the earth, planets, constellations, moon, and sun are held in orbit due to this attraction." Bhaskaracharya was the first to discover gravity, 500 years before Sir Isaac Newton . He was the champion among mathematicians of ancient and medieval India . His works fired the imagination of Persian and European scholars, who through research on his works earned fame and popularity.

ACHARYA KANAD (600 BCE)

                                                                         FOUNDER OF ATOMIC THEORY

As the founder of " Vaisheshik Darshan "- one of six principal philosophies of India - Acharya Kanad was a genius in philosophy. He is believed to have been born in Prabhas Kshetra near Dwarika in Gujarat . He was the pioneer expounder of realism, law of causation and the atomic theory. He has classified all the objects of creation into nine elements, namely: earth, water, light, wind, ether, time, space, mind and soul. He says, "Every object of creation is made of atoms which in turn connect with each other to form molecules." His statement ushered in the Atomic Theory for the first time ever in the world, nearly 2500 years before John Dalton . Kanad has also described the dimension and motion of atoms and their chemical reactions with each other. The eminent historian, T.N. Colebrook , has said, "Compared to the scientists of Europe , Kanad and other Indian scientists were the global masters of this field."

NAGARJUNA (100 CE)

                                                                    WIZARD OF CHEMICAL SCIENCE

He was an extraordinary wizard of science born in the nondescript village of Baluka in Madhya Pradesh . His dedicated research for twelve years produced maiden discoveries and inventions in the faculties of chemistry and metallurgy. Textual masterpieces like " Ras Ratnakar ," "Rashrudaya" and "Rasendramangal" are his renowned contributions to the science of chemistry. Where the medieval alchemists of England failed, Nagarjuna had discovered the alchemy of transmuting base metals into gold. As the author of medical books like "Arogyamanjari" and "Yogasar," he also made significant contributions to the field of curative medicine. Because of his profound scholarliness and versatile knowledge, he was appointed as Chancellor of the famous University of Nalanda . Nagarjuna's milestone discoveries impress and astonish the scientists of today.

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ACHARYA CHARAK (600 BCE)

                                                 FATHER OF MEDICINE

Acharya Charak has been crowned as the Father of Medicine. His renowned work, the " Charak Samhita ", is considered as an encyclopedia of Ayurveda. His principles, diagoneses, and cures retain their potency and truth even after a couple of millennia. When the science of anatomy was confused with different theories in Europe , Acharya Charak revealed through his innate genius and enquiries the facts on human anatomy, embryology, pharmacology, blood circulation and diseases like diabetes, tuberculosis, heart disease, etc. In the " Charak Samhita " he has described the medicinal qualities and functions of 100,000 herbal plants. He has emphasized the influence of diet and activity on mind and body. He has proved the correlation of spirituality and physical health contributed greatly to diagnostic and curative sciences. He has also prescribed and ethical charter for medical practitioners two centuries prior to the Hippocratic oath. Through his genius and intuition, Acharya Charak made landmark contributions to Ayurvedal. He forever remains etched in the annals of history as one of the greatest and noblest of rishi-scientists

ACHARYA SUSHRUT (600 BCE)

                                                                  FATHER OF PLASTIC SURGERY

A genius who has been glowingly recognized in the annals of medical science. Born to sage Vishwamitra, Acharya Sudhrut details the first ever surgery procedures in " Sushrut Samhita ," a unique encyclopedia of surgery. He is venerated as the father of plastic surgery and the science of anesthesia. When surgery was in its infancy in Europe , Sushrut was performing Rhinoplasty (restoration of a damaged nose) and other challenging operations. In the " Sushrut Samhita ," he prescribes treatment for twelve types of fractures and six types of dislocations. His details on human embryology are simply amazing. Sushrut used 125 types of surgical instruments including scalpels, lancets, needles, Cathers and rectal speculums; mostly designed from the jaws of animals and birds. He has also described a number of stitching methods; the use of horse's hair as thread and fibers of bark. In the " Sushrut Samhita ," and fibers of bark. In the " Sushrut Samhita ," he details 300 types of operations. The ancient Indians were the pioneers in amputation, caesarian and cranial surgeries. Acharya Sushrut was a giant in the arena of medical science.

VARAHAMIHIR (499-587 CE)

EMINENT ASTROLOGER AND ASTRONOMERA

Renowned astrologer and astronomer who was honored with a special decoration and status as one of the nine gems in the court of King Vikramaditya in Avanti ( Ujjain ). Varahamihir's book "panchsiddhant" holds a prominent place in the realm of astronomy. He notes that the moon and planets are lustrous not because of their own light but due to sunlight. In the " Bruhad Samhita " and " Bruhad Jatak ," he has revealed his discoveries in the domains of geography, constellation, science, botany and animal science. In his treatise on botanical science, Varamihir presents cures for various diseases afflicting plants and trees. The rishi-scientist survives through his unique contributions to the science of astrology and astronomy.

ACHARYA PATANJALI (200 BCE)

                                                                  FATHER OF YOGA

The Science of Yoga is one of several unique contributions of India to the world. It seeks to discover and realize the ultimate Reality through yogic practices. Acharya Patanjali , the founder, hailed from the district of Gonda (Ganara) in Uttar Pradesh . He prescribed the control of prana (life breath) as the means to control the body, mind and soul. This subsequently rewards one with good health and inner happiness. Acharya Patanjali 's 84 yogic postures effectively enhance the efficiency of the respiratory, circulatory, nervous, digestive and endocrine systems and many other organs of the body. Yoga has eight limbs where Acharya Patanjali shows the attainment of the ultimate bliss of God in samadhi through the disciplines of: yam, niyam, asan, pranayam, pratyahar, dhyan and dharna. The Science of Yoga has gained popularity because of its scientific approach and benefits. Yoga also holds the honored place as one of six philosophies in the Indian philosophical system. Acharya Patanjali will forever be remembered and revered as a pioneer in the science of self-discipline, happiness and self-realization.

ACHARYA BHARADWAJ (800 BCE)

PIONEER OF AVIATION TECHNOLOGY
Acharya Bharadwaj had a hermitage in the holy city of Prayag and was an ordent apostle of Ayurveda and mechanical sciences. He authored the " Yantra Sarvasva " which includes astonishing and outstanding discoveries in aviation science, space science and flying machines. He has described three categories of flying machines: 1.) One that flies on earth from one place to another. 2.) One that travels from one planet to another. 3.) And One that travels from one universe to another. His designs and descriptions have impressed and amazed aviation engineers of today. His brilliance in aviation technology is further reflected through techniques described by him:
1.) Profound Secret: The technique to make a flying machine invisible through the application of sunlight and wind force.
2.) Living Secret: The technique to make an invisible space machine visible through the application of electrical force.
3.) Secret of Eavesdropping: The technique to listen to a conversation in another plane.
4.) Visual Secrets: The technique to see what's happening inside another plane.
Through his innovative and brilliant discoveries, Acharya Bharadwaj has been recognized as the pioneer of aviation technology.

ACHARYA KAPIL (3000 BCE)

FATHER OF COSMOLOGY
Celebrated as the founder of Sankhya philosophy, Acharya Kapil is believed to have been born in 3000 BCE to the illustrious sage Kardam and Devhuti. He gifted the world with the Sankhya School of Thought. His pioneering work threw light on the nature and principles of the ultimate Soul (Purusha), primal matter (Prakruti) and creation. His concept of transformation of energy and profound commentaries on atma, non-atma and the subtle elements of the cosmos places him in an elite class of master achievers - incomparable to the discoveries of other cosmologists. On his assertion that Prakruti, with the inspiration of Purusha, is the mother of cosmic creation and all energies, he contributed a new chapter in the science of cosmology. Because of his extrasensory observations and revelations on the secrets of creation, he is recognized and saluted as the Father of Cosmology.

Forts and Palaces of Rajasthan

Most tourists travel to Rajasthan to partake of its rich, glorious heritage and sample a piece of the vibrant Rajasthani culture and history. The history that has seen this region change hands very often and where each ruler has left indelible influence. And it is the forts and palaces of Rajasthan that has given Rajasthan the sobriquet of being the 'Land of Kings'. These Rajasthan forts and palaces, set against a diverse topography, are old as 10th century and speak of the era gone by. From Mughal style, to Rajaput and Mewari styles, all kinds of influences can be seen on the architectural designs of the forts and palaces of Rajasthan. Indeed, it is these Rajasthan Forts and Palaces that constitute the premier tourist attraction of Rajasthan, India Forts of Rajasthan Mehrangarh Fort: One of the most formidable and impregnable forts in India, the majestic Mehrangarh Fort is located on a steep 125meter hill. People travel to Rajasthan to visit this fort which stands as a mute witness to the splendors of an era replete with chivalry, glory and grandeur, the fort contains within its area some of the most beautiful palaces with wonderfully carved panels, latticed windows and evocative names Jaisalmer Fort: Travel to Rajastha to visit the Jaisalmer Fort also called Sonar Qila. Built in 1156, the fort is the second oldest in Rajasthan. The fort is two hundred and fifty feet tall and reinforced by imposing 30 feet high crenellated sandstone wall. The fort has many gates including Suraj Pol, Ganesh Pol, Hawa Pol and Bhoot Pol. Amber Fort: A hilltop fort located in Jaipur, the splendid fort was built by Raja Man Singh, during Akbar's reign and retains its position as the one of the greatest forts built during the medieval India. Taragarh Fort: "Taragarh Fort must have been built by angels not by human beings," commented Rudyard Kipling. You will doubtlessly agree with Kipling. Built in 1354, the fort houses a large reservoir. Junagarh Fort: Built between 1587 and 1593 by Raja Rai Singh, one of the most distinguished generals in the Mughal army, the fort was impregnable and unconquered all through the period. Chittorgarh Fort: The Chittorgarh Fort is a huge structure set on a hill. Among the monuments housed within the fort are Fateh Prakash Palace, Rana Kumbha Palace, Tower of Victory and Padmini's Palace. Palaces of Rajasthan City Palace Jaipur: Designed by Jai Singh, the City palace is a seamless blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. One of the most important architectural landmarks in Jaipur, this palace complex has many buildings, courtyards, impressive gateways and temples. City Palace: Udaipur's fascinating City Palace is the largest royal complex in Rajasthan. Standing on a rocky promontory the palace has balconies, towers and cupolas and presents a wonderful view of the lake and the city . Umaid Bhavan Palace: Umaid Bhawan Palace is another major landmark of Jodhpur. It was commissioned by Maharaja Umaid Singh in 1929 as a famine relief scheme, this marvelous palace was constructed by three thousand workers and took sixteen years to complete. Lake Palace: Lake Palace was built by Maharana Jagat Singh II (1628-52) as a summer palace to escape the heat of Jaipur. This is undoubtedly the most familiar and photogenic feature of Udaipur.

MAJOR FESTIVALS OF INDIA

Festivals Of India

India is often described as a land of many religions and languages, but it might as well be described as a land of festivals. Some festivals are observed throughout the country; others have specific regional associations. India celebrates holidays and festivals of almost all the faiths in the world. In one region or the other, festivals happen almost every day, each with a specialty of its own. Each festival in each region has its own particular foods and sweets appropriate to the season and crops, and days are spent in their careful preparation.

There are three National holidays:

Independence Day:

This is celebrated on 15^th August as India gained independence from British rule on this day in 1947. 

Republic Day:

This is celebrated on 26^th January. On this day India became a republic. 

Gandhi Jayanti:

This is celebrated on 2^nd October which is father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday.

Following are some of the major festivals from India.

Diwali: 

Deepawali literally means an array of lamps is the Festival of Lights. Depawali is the occasion of joy and jubilation for one and all in the entire Hindu world. All the illumination and fireworks, joy and festivity, signifies the victory of divine forces over those of wickedness. Deepawali symbolizes the victory of righteousness and the lifting of spiritual darkness. Depawali is a festival that lasts 5 days. 

In North India, Depawali is associated with the return of Sri Rama to Ayodhya after vanquishing the demon Ravana. The people of Ayodhya, overwhelmed with joy, welcomed Rama through jubilation and illumination of the entire capital.

In South India, Diwali is celebrated to commemorate the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura.

To the Jains, Depawali has an added significance to the great event of Mahavera attaining the Eternal Bliss of Nirvana.

Though, Diwali is mainly a 5 day festival but people start preparing for Diwali weeks ahead by cleaning and decorating their households. It is said that Lakshmi, Goddess of wealth roams the earth on this day and enters the house that is pure, clean and brightly illuminated.

It is also the beginning of the new financial year for the business community.

Bhai Dooj:

Bhaiya Duj is the festival that is celebrated on the fifth day of Diwali and it falls on second day after Diwali that is on 'Shukla Paksha Dwitiya' in the Hindi month of 'Kartik'. 'Dwitiya' means 'Duj' or the second day after the new moon. This festival is popular in different regions with different names such as 'Bhai-Dooj' in north India, 'Bhav-Bij' in Maharashtra, 'Bhai-Phota' in Bengal and 'Bhai-Teeka' in Nepal. On this day sisters perform 'aarti' of their brothers and apply a beautiful 'Tilak' or 'Teeka' on their forehead. Then they offer sweets to them. Then the brothers and sisters exchange gifts with each other. Sisters are lavished with gifts, goodies and blessings from their brothers.

Dussehra or Vijayadashmi:

Dussehra or Navratri is one of the most popular festivals of India. Dussehra is the anniversary of the victory of Goddess Durga over the buffalo-headed demon, Mahishasura, giving the goddess her name Mahishasura-Mardini (the slayer of Mahishasura). Dussehra also commemorates the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana of Lanka. The theme of this festival is the victory of good over evil.

Ganesh Chaturthi:

Ganesh Chaturthi, the birthday of Lord Ganesh, is celebrated in August-September. Ganesh is the elephant headed son of Goddess Parvati, consort of Lord Shiva.

In Maharashtra, it is most important festival and is celebrated for 10 days. It is celebrated from 4^th to 14^th day of bright fortnight of Bhadrapad month. In Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh, images of Ganesh made of unbaked clay are worshipped on this day in every house. A special sweet called Modak is prepared on this occassion. To mark the end of the festivities, the clay idols are immersed in water.

Holi:

The full-moon day in February-March is celebrated as Holi, the festival of colors. Holi is a festival of fun and gaiety for people of all ages. Bonfires are lit and people smear colors on each other. Holi signifies the start of spring and end of winter. People celebrate the new harvest and return of color in nature. 

The mythological origin of this festival varies in North and South India.

In the South, especially in Tamil Nadu and Kerala, it is believed that Kama Deva, the God of love, aimed his arrow at his wife Rati. The arrow hit Shiva by mistake. Kama was burnt to ashes by the fire coming out of the third eye of the enraged Lord Shiva. Rati, was so grief-stricken that Shiva relented and granted her the power to see Kama deva but without a physical form. In Tamil Nadu, the festival known as Kaman vizha, Kaman pandigai, or Kama Dahanam commemorates the burning of Kama.  

In the North, it is believed that a mighty King Hiranyakashipu ordered his people to worship him as a God. But Prahlad, his only son, refused to accept his father as a God, because he believed only in Lord Vishnu. The King tried to kill his son, but every time Prahlad was saved as he uttered the name of Vishnu. Finally, Prahlad's aunt Holika, claiming herself to be fireproof, took the child in her lap and sat in the fire to burn him alive. When the fire subsided, the king found, the child alive while Holika had perished.  

In North India, grains and stalks saved from the year's harvest are offered to Agni, the God of Fire. Holi fire is a symbol of destruction of all filth and impurity be it physical or mental.

rishna Janmastami:

The birth of Lord Krishna an incarnation of Lord Vishnu is celebrated on the eight day (Ashtami) of a lunar fortnight in August-September hence the name (Krishna + ashtami). Krishnastami is celebrated over two days. This first day is Krishnastami or Gokulastami. The second day is called Kalastami or more popularly Janmastami. 

Men and women fast and pray on the occasion of Janmashtami. As it is the worship of infant Krishna, who was fond of milk and butter, women prepare a variety of delicacies with milk products as offerings. This festival is a community celebration and people visit temples which are specially decorated for this occasion.

Durga Puja or Navaratri:

This nine-day festival of the Hindus is celebrated in almost all parts of India in the month of Ashvina, and is marked by fasting and praying to different aspects of Devi. Literally 'nine nights', this nine-day period from the new moon day to the ninth day of Ashvina is considered the most auspicious time of the Hindu calendar. 

It is celebrated as Durga Puja in the state of West Bengal. Durga Puja is the most important and the most eagerly awaited festival of the state. It commemorates the victory of Durga over the demon Mahishasura.  

The nine different aspects of Devi are worshipped over the nine days.

• Durga: goddess beyond reach;
• Bhadrakali: the auspicious power of time;
• Amba or Jagdamba: mother of the world;
• Annapurna: giver of food and plenty;
• Sarvamangala: auspicious goddess;
• Bhairavi: terrible, fearful, power of death;
• Chandika or Chandi: violent, wrathful, furious;
• Lalita: playful;
• Bhavani: giver of existence.

The festivities culminate on the tenth day on Vijayadashmi or Dussehra.

In North India the nine-day period from the first to the ninth day in the bright fortnight of the month of Chaitra is also known as Navaratri and is dedicated to the worship of nine different aspects of Devi. The ninth day in this month is also celebrated as Ramanavami.

In Gujarat, this is the time for the joyous Garba and Dandia dances and people pour out at night to participate in this community festival.
In Tamil Nadu, the first three days of the festival are dedicated to Lakshmi, the next three to Durga and the last three to Sarasvati.

Maha Shivaratri:

On the 14th day of the dark half of Margshirsh month the great night of Shiva is celebrated. On this day the devotees of Shiva observe fast. According to a legend once King Bhagiratha left his kingdom to meditate for the salvation of the souls of his ancestors. He prayed for the holy River Ganga from heaven to wash over his ancestor's ashes to release them from a curse and allow them to go to heaven. But Lord Shiva was the only one who could sustain the weight of her descent. So he prayed to Lord shiva and Ganga descended on Shiva's head, and after meandering through his thick matted locks, reached the earth.

This story is believed to be re-enacted by bathing the linga. The love of water, the primary element of life, is also remembered in this ritualistic action. The linga is bathed with milk, water and honey. It is then anointed with sandalwood paste. People offer wood apple or bel leaves and fruit, milk, sandalwood and jujube fruit or ber to the linga. People decorate the linga with flowers and garlands and also offer incense sticks and fruit.

Ramanavami:

The birth anniversary of Lord Rama is celebrated as Ramanavami in the Hindu month of Chaitra (March-April). It occurs on the ninth day (navami). The festival commemorates the birth of Rama who is considered to be Maryada Purushottam or The Ideal Man. Ramrajya (the reign of Rama) has become synonymous with a period of peace and prosperity. Mahatma Gandhi also used this term to describe how, according to him, India should be after independence. Celebrations begin with a prayer to the Sun early in the morning. At midday, when Lord Rama is supposed to have been born, a special prayer is performed.

Raksha Bandhan:

This is a festival that falls on the brightest night of Shravan month.Raksha Bandhan stirs up one of the deepest and noblest emotions - the abiding and chaste bond of love between the brother and the sister. On this day sisters tie a rakhi — which may be a colorful thread, a simple bracelet, or a decorative string — around the wrist of their brother(s). The word "raksha" signifies protection, and "bandhan" is an association signifying an enduring bond; and so, when a woman ties a rakhi around the wrist of her brother, she signifies her loving attachment to him. He, likewise, recognizes the special bond between them, and by extending his wrist forward, he in fact extends the hand of his protection over her.

Yugadi:

The first day of the year according to the National Calendar of India is significant both for its historical importance and for the advent of bountiful nature. On the national plane, the day recalls the inspiring occasion when the invading Shakas - the barbaric tribal hordes from Central Asia descending on India like locusts during the 1st century A.D. - were vanquished by the great emperors Shalivahana and Vikramaditya.

The day falls in the beginning of spring - Vasanta Ritu - When the Goddess of Nature gets bedecked as a divine bride. In some parts of India, the tender leaves of  Neem mixed with jaggery are distributed on the occasion. The Neem, extremely bitter in taste, and jaggery sweet and delicious, signify the two conflicting aspects of human life - joy and sorrow, success and failure, ecstasy and agony. The Neem-jaggery blend is offered to God as naivedya and then distributed as prasad. This embodies one of the highest philosophical attitudes taught by the Hindu spiritual masters.

Makar Sankranti:

Makara Sankranti festival coincides with the beginning of the sun's northward journey, and falls on January 14 according to the solar calendar. According to legend, Bhishma, a great hero of the Mahabharata, though wounded mortally, waited for this auspicious time to give up his life. For, it is believed that, a person dying on this day reaches the Abode of Light and Eternal Bliss.

In many states, the celebration has a special offering of rice and pulses cooked together with or without jaggery and clarified butter. In many areas of India people distribute til-gud - the sesame seed and jaggery. The til brimming with fragrant and delicious oil, stands for friendship and comradeship and jaggery for the sweetness of speech and behavior.  

In Tamil Nadu, Makara Sankranti is celebrated as Pongal, a three-day harvest festival. On Bhogi Pongal, the house is cleaned and the discards are burnt, while children sing and dance around the bonfire. On Surya Pongal, sweet Pongal is prepared and the Sun God is worshipped for a good yearly harvest. The last day of Pongal, Mattu Pongal, is celebrated to pay respects to the cows, the animal that is used in cultivation.

In Uttar Pradesh, it is called the Khichri Sankranti.

In Gujarat, there is a custom of making gifts to near relatives on this day.

Makara Sankranti bears a festive occasion for the people of Rajasthan. Kite Festivals are organized on Makara Sankranti. Kite flyers from all over the world participate in the festival.  

Guru Purnima:

Devotional worship of the Guru - the teacher - is one of the most touching and elevating aspect of the Hindu cultural tradition. The auspicious moment of Vyasa Poornima, chosen for observing this annual festival, is no less significant. It was the great sage Vyasa, son of a fisherwoman, who classified the accumulated spiritual knowledge of the Vedas under four heads - Rig, Yajur, Saama and Atharva. The Guru in the Hindu tradition is looked upon as an embodiment of God himself. For, it is through his grace and guidance that one reaches the highest state of wisdom and bliss.

Gururbrahmaa gururvishnuh gururdevo Maheswarah

Guruh-saakshaat parabrahma tasmai shrigurave namah

"My salutations to the Guru who is Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara.

The Guru is Parabrahma incarnate"

Karwa Chauth:

Karwa Chauth is a very significant festival for the women of North Indian. Karwa means clay pot and Chauth corresponding to the fourth. The festival is celebrated nine days before Diwali, on the fourth day of the waning moon in the Hindu month of Kartik, around October-November Traditionally the Indian woman was expected to uphold family honor and repute. The festival of Karwa Chauth is not only a day when women pray to God for the long and prosperous lives of their husbands, but is also symbolic of their unflagging loyalty towards their spouses. Married women, old and young, begin their fast on the day of Karwa Chauth well before sunrise, and eventually partake of food and water only after spotting the moon. But this is not a solemn day rather a good measure of festivity, rituals and merriment complement its more serious aspects.

Vasant Panchami:

Literally 'the fifth day of spring', Vasanta Panchami is celebrated on the fifth day of the bright fortnight in the month of Magha. The festival itself dates to antiquity. It is reminiscent of the festival of Vasantotsava of the ancient times, which was one of the most important celebrations as it marked the beginning of the agricultural season. Vasanta Panchami heralds the spring season. It is hence celebrated with gaiety and festivity to mark the end of the winter, which can be quite severe in northern India. The festive color yellow, symbolic of spring, plays an important part of this day. People wear yellow clothes, offer yellow flowers in worship and put a yellow, turmeric tilak on their forehead. They visit temples and offer prayers to various gods.

It is also known as Sirapanchami in Bihar and Orissa, when the ploughs are worshipped and the land is furrowed after the winter months. In Bengal, the day is celebrated as Saraswati Puja and is marked by the worship of Saraswati.
 

Baisakhi:

This is a major Sikh festival - a religious festival, harvest festival and New Year’s Day all rolled into one.

In April, this day marks the beginning of the Hindu solar New Year. In fact this day is celebrated all over the country as New Year day under different names. It is also the time when the harvest is ready to cut and store or sell. For the Sikh community Baisakhi has a very special meaning. It was on this day that the last Guru Gobind Singh organized the Sikhs into Khalsa or the pure ones. By doing so, he eliminated the differences of high and low and established that all human beings were equal.

Hanuman Jayanti:

Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated to commemorate the birth of Hanuman, the monkey god widely venerated throughout India. It is celebrated during Chaitra and is especially important to Brahmacharis, wrestlers and bodybuilders. Hanuman was an ardent devotee of Rama, and is worshipped for his unflinching devotion to the god. From the early morning, devotees flock Hanuman temples to worship him. The officiating priest bathes the idol and offers special prayers to the gods. Then the entire body is smeared with sindoor and oil, a symbol of life and strength. According to a popular belief, once when Sita was applying sindoor to her hair, Hanuman asked her the reason for doing so. She replied that by applying sindoor, she ensured a long life for her husband Shri Ram. The more sindoor she applied, the longer Rama's life would be. The devoted Hanuman then smeared his entire body with sindoor, in an effort to ensure Rama's immortality. Hence Hanuman's idol is always daubed with sindoor.

HOLY RIVERS IN INDIA

Brahmputra River - In Sanskrit Brahmaputra means “Son of Brahma”. The river flows across China and India to the Bay of Bengal. The river in India flows thru Guwahati, Assam.

Narmada River – Narmada river flows thru the states of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Gujarat which is the only river that connects the South India and North India.  The sacred Narmada River where a temple has been dedicated to the goddess Narmada.

Ganga River – The River of India “Ganga” flows from Varanasi, North India to Bangladesh.  The river is a holy river for Hindus and worshipped as goddess Ganga.

Kaveri River (Cauvery) – Kaveri (Cauvery) is a sacred river of India, the origin of the river traditionally placed at talakavari, rising on Brahmagiri Hill in the Western Ghats in Coorg district of Karnataka state, flowing through Karnataka and Tamil Nadu states.

Yamuna River – The river Yamuna is a major tributary river of the Ganga river in India.  Its source is in the Uttarakhand Himalaya, which is north of Haridwar in the Himalayan Mountains. It flows through the states of Delhi, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, before merging with the Ganges at Allahabad. Taj Mahal in Agra is on the banks of the river Yamuna.

Triveni Sangam - The river Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati flow togehter in Allahabad which is called as the river “Triveni Sangam”.  This is the sacred place where historic kumbamela happens every 12 years.

Godavari River - The river Godavari originates in Nashik and flows thru Badrachalam, Rajahmundry in Andhra Pradesh. The river has many piligremage centers on its banks.   A holy festival Pushkaram is celebrated every 12 years in Rajahmundry.

Krishna River - The river Krishna raises at Maharashtra and flows thru Karnataka,  Vijayawada (AP) into Bay of Bengal in Andhra Pradesh.  The sacred temples like Dattadeva at Maharashtra, Goddess Kanaka Durga at Vijayawada are at the banks of Krishna River.

Mahanadi River - The river Mahanadi flows thru Chattisgarh, Orissa into Bay of Bengal.  Mahanadi is a seasonal river formed from mountain streams.

 
Satluj River in Himachal Pradesh - The river Satluj rises from Indian borders in the Southern slopes of the Kailash mountain near Mansarover lake from Rakas lake. It is the largest among the five rivers of Himachal Pradesh.

Sindhu River (Indus River) – The indus river originates in Tibet and flows thru Pakistan, Jammu and Kashmir. The river is largely fed by snow and the flow of the river is determined by seasons.

 Tapti River – The river Tapti in Gujarat rises in Madhya Pradesh. The tributaries of Tapti river are Purna River, Girna River, Panzara River, Bori River.