Navratri

The festival of nine nights in October, preceding the Dussera is a special feature of Gujarat when people assemble in village squares and temple compounds and sing and dance till the wee hours in the morning. They worship the mother goddess and her numerous manifestations during the festival. The festival ends on the Dussera day, when artisans worship their instruments, agriculturists their ploughs, warriors their weapons and students their books.

The Navaratri festival is closely followed by the Sharad Purnima, the full moon night in the Asvina month, when under the moon light people partake of prasad rice and milk. The people of Surat make merry on the Tapi bank.

Gujarat has two temples dedicated to two most popular mother goddesses of Gujarat, Amba Mata and Becharji Mata. On Kartika and Chaitra Purnima days and during the Navaratri days, people visit these temples and enjoy Gujarati's typical folk drama, the Bhavai.

Bhadra Purnima

Bhadra Purnima is one of the biggest festivals of Gujarat, popularly known as the Ambaji Bhadra Purnima. This is because the festival is celebrated at Ambaji, a village which derives its name from the shrine located here. The village is situated at the foothills of Mount Aravalli. Ambaji shrine is dedicated to Goddess Ambaji, held in great regard by the people of the region. It is the main shrine of the Goddess in Gujarat. The place finds reference in as early as 746 AD, but its actual origin is still unknown.

The most fascinating fact about the shrine is that there is no idol inside it. The deity is represented in the form of a triangle, inscribed with figures and with the syllable 'Shree' in the center. This is called the Vishwa Yantra. This emphasizes the fact that the temple is antique, since idol worship became popular much later. It is also regarded as one of the original Shakti peeths. According to the scriptures, when the body of Goddess Amba was dismembered, her heart fell onto this place on the earth. Another belief regarding the place is that the tonsorial ceremony of Lord Krishna was held here.

This has added to the religious significance of Ambaji. The festival is organized on the full moon day of the Bhadrapad, according to the Hindi Calendar. A number of farmers and agriculturists assemble here to worship at the shrine. Bhavai, the folk drama of the state, and Garba performances are organized to celebrate the occasion. Saptshati, the seven hundred verses in the praise of the Goddess are read in the temple. Devotees attend these assemblies and worship the Goddess to seek Her blessings. A huge fair is also held here at this occasion.

Venue: Ambaji

Time: August-September

Kutch Mahotsav

Kutch Mahotsav serves as the guided tour of the Kutch region of Gujarat. It is organized by the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat and lasts for six day. This tour takes you around the venerated places in Kutch. It provides an opportunity to experience the magic of the place and to explore its beauty, nostalgia, ethos, traditions, culture and spirit. Kutch Mahotsav is usually organized in the months of February and March, each year. The Kutch peninsula of India has a lot to offer to the tourists.

From sandy beaches to ancient fortresses, from plush green landscapes to earthy deserts, Kutch is the perfect place to unwind, away from the hustle bustle of daily life. The tour takes you to a number of exotic locations situated in the heart of Kutch Peninsula, like Bhuj, a major city that acts as the center of all activity during the Mahotsav. Other places include Mata no Madh, a 1200 year old temple dedicated to Mother Godess and Lakhpat, a banished port that reminds of the days of the yore, when it was the hub of Gujarat's sea trade.

The Kutch Mahotsav also takes you to a number of religious places. The major Hindu pilgrimage sites are Narayan Sarovar, Koteshwar and Bhadreshwar. Apart from this, the enthralling experience is enriched by the visit to Anjar, the beaches of Mandvi, Dhola Vira's archaeological ruins and the rural fair at Dhrang. The Mahotsav is a life time experience, as it unleashes the various colorful aspects of Kutch. Don't forget to savor the local delicacies, the taste of which you will not forget in a long time to come.

You will be awe struck when you explore the lifestyle and culture of 18 different tribes of the Kutch peninsula. The artistic and skilled craftsmanship of the local tribes is a marvel to cherish. Not only this, the Mahotsav also presents a glimpse of its cultural heritage through the various folk dance and music performances. The soul stirring Bhajans and Kirtans are a feast for the ears. Bhuj is well connected to all the major cities of the state by varied means of transport, making it easily accessible for the tourists.

Venue: Kutch

Time: February-March

Modhera Dance Festival

Modhera dance festival is one of the major festivals organized in the state of Gujarat. It is primarily a dance festival and showcases the various traditional dance forms of the region. It is one of the main attractions for the art lovers. Traditional Gujarati dance and music performances presented here are nowhere else to be seen in India. Modhera is located in the Mehsana district of Gujarat. The Sun Temple here serves as the venue for this extravaganza, held every year in the month of January.

The temple was built during the reign of the Solanki king Bhimdev I. It was built to commemorate the majesty of the Sun God. The site of the Modhera dance festival is just mesmerizing, with the Sun Temple as its backdrop. This three day festival is organized by the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat, to promote the performing arts of Gujarat, especially classical dance and music. Special classical dance and Gujarati folk dance performances mark the occasion. These performances take place within the premises of the temple.

It is a sure delight to witness the celebration that reminds one of the glorious past of the place. The walls of the Sun Temple hold beautiful figurines of Lord Surya, the Sun God. At the time of the festival, the temple is lit with the help of flood lights, further attracting attention to the intricate carvings and minutely detailed figurines chiseled on the temple exteriors. The most fascinating feature of the temple is that its construction is such that sun rays illuminate the main deity in the innermost chamber of the shrine, through the main doors.

Venue: Sun Temple, Modhera

Time: January

Rath Yatra

Rath Yatra is a huge festival celebrated in Gujarat. Rath means chariot and Yatra means journey. As the name suggests, during the festival, huge wooden floats are prepared and the idols of Lord Krishna, Lord Balaram and Goddess Subhadra are placed in them. There is a stirring tale behind the commencement of the festival. According to Bhagvat Purana (Hindu scripture), Lord Krishna's maternal uncle Kansa sent Akrur to bring the Lord and his elder brother Balram, to Mathura from Gokul. When all of them were ready to leave for Mathura, the Gopis and Gopals blocked the way of their chariot.

On being consoled by the Lord, they bid him a weepy and painful farewell. Since that day, the Festival of Rath Yatra is celebrated in the memory of the overwhelming separation. It is observed in various cities of Gujarat with great pomp and zeal. However, the Rath Yatra at the Ahmedabad city of India is the biggest. Magnificent floats are built, in which the idols are placed with great devotion. These chariots are taken around the city in a huge procession and the floats are decorated with garlands. The chariots follow the music bands and Bhajan Mandlis, which sing devotional songs in the praise of the Lord.

Decorated elephants, gymnasts and acrobats performing astonishing acts are a feast for the eyes. They are accompanied by numerous Vaishnavite sages, headed by the Mahant of Jagannath Temple. When the procession moves through the narrow streets of the city, people sprinkle rice and gulal on the idols to pay their homage. The devotees participating in the Yatra are given prasadam, in the form of raw sprouted moong beans. Quite a number of times, the floats are hand pulled by the devotees, crying out loud the name of the Lord. The Rath Yatra is a festival immersed with devotional sentiments for the Lord.

Dangs Darbar

Dangs Darbar is an annual festival celebrated in the Dangs district, located in the Saputara Hills of India. The district is inhabited by the tribal people, who have lived in the region's woods and highlands since times memorial. This makes Dangs Darbar, essentially a tribal festival of Gujarat. The exact venue of Dangs Darbar is Ahwa, a small town in Dangs. The festival is celebrated just a few days before the festival of Holi. During the British era, a darbar (assembly) of the kings and the emperors of neighboring areas was organized here at Ahwa.

With time, this darbar changed its nature as well as name. Today, it is called the Jamabandi Darbar and the District Collector presides over it. The tribal natives constitute nearly three-fourth of the population. As a result, the festival has become significant and is celebrated with great zeal. Thousands of tribal people from across the district move to Ahwa for the celebrations. Some of them even carry shehnai and drums, which they play on their way to the town. All of them are dressed in bright colorful clothes.

Men usually wear a loincloth, a waistcoat and a colorful turban around the head. Women wear sari and a blouse. They team it with numerous silver ornaments of which they are very fond. Dang Darbar also provides a great opportunity for the local merchants to mint money. Merchants from as far away as Nasik, Surat and West Khandesh visit the place in aspiration of good business. The education department of the region organizes folk dances, Ras and Garba programs, songs and dramas for the entertainment of the visitors.

Gujarat Festivals

Gujarat is known as the land of festivals. It is popular through out India as well as the world for its spirit of festivity. Apart from the festival celebrated in the entire nation, there are a host of other festivals uniquely associated with the state. These traditional festivals have been celebrated in the region since time immemorial. People observe these festivals strictly as they still adhere to their age old customs and traditions. They are proud of their rich heritage and it is visible from the manner they celebrate. One of the major festivals celebrated here is Navratri.

Dangs Darbar
Dangs Darbar is an annual festival celebrated in the Dangs district, located in the Saputara Hills of India. The district is inhabited by the tribal people, who have lived in the region's woods and highlands since times memorial. This makes Dangs Darbar, essentially a tribal festival of Gujarat.

Rath Yatra
Rath Yatra is a huge festival celebrated in Gujarat. Rath means chariot and Yatra means journey. As the name suggests, during the festival, huge wooden floats are prepared and the idols of Lord Krishna, Lord Balaram and Goddess Subhadra are placed in them.

Modhera Dance Festival
Modhera dance festival is one of the major festivals organized in the state of Gujarat. It is primarily a dance festival and showcases the various traditional dance forms of the region.

Kutch Mahotsav
Kutch Mahotsav serves as the guided tour of the Kutch region of Gujarat. It is organized by the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat and lasts for six day. This tour takes you around the venerated places in Kutch.

Bhadra Purnima
Bhadra Purnima is one of the biggest festivals of Gujarat, popularly known as the Ambaji Bhadra Purnima. This is because the festival is celebrated at Ambaji, a village which derives its name from the shrine located here. The village is situated at the foothills of Mount Aravalli.

Navratri
Navratri is the prime festival of Gujarat. The state is known for its lavish celebrations and fortitude, during the festival. It is celebrated not only in Gujarat but in other parts of the country as well. Huge arrangements are done for Navratri. Even the state government makes arrangements for the people to enjoy the occasion completely. The mammoth celebrations are a part of the nine day festival before Dussehra. It is celebrated to worship the nine manifestations of Mother Goddess. During the nine days, people observe fasts and visit temples to pray to the Goddess.

In the night, the festive mood completely sweeps off everybody. The young and old celebrate the festival alike. The main attraction of the festival is Dandia Ras and Garba. These are the traditional dance forms of the region. People dance to the tunes of drum beats and folk songs in merriment. The Dandia Ras is performed in groups by huge crowds, at open grounds. The clashing sound of the Dandia sticks is music to ears. The festival is a true blend of devotion, dance and drum beats. The dance continues all the night long with great zeal.

Bhavnath Mahadev Mela

Bhavnath Mahadev Mela is celebrated near the Bhavnath Mahadev Temple, situated at the foothills of Mount Girnar, in the Junagarh city of Gujarat. The fair takes place on the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri. It is organized in the month of February and lasts for five days. According to Hindu mythology, Girnar is believed to be the abode of the nine Nathas. They are the immortal Lords and Protectors as well as nine of eighty-four Siddhas, the spiritually elevated souls. All of them are said to be residing in the temple in their invisible spiritual bodies

On the festival of Mahashivratri, the mahapuja (grand worship) of Lord Shiva takes place in the temple. The worship begins at midnight, on the 14th day of the dark half of the Hindu month of Magh. As soon as the prayer ceremony starts, the Naga Babas, living nearby, march towards the Bhavnath Mahadev Mela. They are naked sages who can be seen seated on elephants, holding flags in their hands and blowing shells. The place is washed over by the tides of spirituality and devotion.

The fanatic sages show their gratitude towards the Lord by shouting aloud His name and seek His blessings in return. According to the belief of local people, Lord Shiva himself visits the shrine on this holy occasion. The pilgrims are served free meals by the organizers. Special stalls selling idols, rosaries or holy beads, utensils of brass and copper, sweets and fruits flank the venue of the fair. These stalls are brought here especially for the Bhavnath Mahadev Mela, by the vendors of Ayodhya and Mathura.

Shamlaji Mela

Shamlaji Melo takes place in a small town, Shamlaji, in Gujarat. The town is situated on the Delhi-Ahmedabad highway of India. Shamlaji Melo is also known as the Kartik Poornima fair, as it is celebrated on the full moon day in the month of Kartik. The fair is usually celebrated in November and lasts for about a week. It is a significant fair for the tribes, who come from various parts of Gujarat and Rajasthan to participate in this grand extravaganza. Shamlaji Melo is an example of the harmony that prevails in the region.

Despite their personal differences, tribal people belonging to different regions come together and celebrate the fair with great zeal. There is an estimated gathering of about two hundred thousand people, which throng the place during the fair. It is organized near the famous Shamlaji temple of the region, a famous Vaishnav shrine dedicated to the deity called Gadadhar (mace bearer) or Shaksi Gopal. The temple architecture dates back to the 11th century and is of great archeological importance.

The devotees attending the Shamlaji Melo belong to varied castes and communities, including the Garasias and Bhils. The Bhils address the deity as 'Kalio Bavji' i.e. Dark Divinity. The pilgrims visit river Meshwo before entering the temple, to seek the blessings of the Lord. The holy dip in the waters of this river is considered very sacred. The devotees sing devotional songs in the praise of the Lord. They shout the name of the deity and express their gratitude. One can also see colorful religious banners in the hands of the people.

Shamlaji Melo is an excellent example of the secular nature of our country. People of all religion, caste and region participate in this holy fair. The cultural heritage and spirit of Gujarat can be witnessed, at its best, here. You can also buy some local handicrafts of the region as a memoir of the fair. Shamlaji Melo provides you an opportunity to witness the religious beliefs and culture of the local people closely. One can easily reach the venue of the fair as it is well connected to all the major cities of Gujarat, by road.

Chitra-Vichitra Mela

Chitra-Vichitra Mela is a purely tribal fair that takes place in the Gumbhakhari village, which falls under the Sabarkantha district. The village is located almost on the border of Rajasthan and Gujarat. The venue of the fair is near a temple overlooking the rivers Sabarmati, Aakar and Vakar. Chitra-Vichitra Mela is a huge hit amongst all the tribes of the state. A large number of Bhils from the surrounding areas reach the venue, for the celebration of the spring event, just a fortnight after Holi.

There is an exciting story behind the Chitra Vichitra Mela of India. The historical relevance of the fair dates back to the Mahabharat era. It is said that there were two sons of Shantanu named Chitraveer and Vichitraveer. Both of them wished to repent for the sins they had committed. A meditating saint advised them to discover a place, where the meeting point of three rivers as well as a Shiva shrine was located. Abiding by the saint's advice, they began their search and came to this ancient place, which is now known as Chitra Vichitra.

In order to practice penance, they immolated themselves here. Since then the Chitra- Vichitra fair is organized here in the memory of the two princes. The tribal population celebrates the fair every year, on the confluence of the rivers Sabarmati, Aakar and Vakar. It commences on the eve of no moon day just after Holi. On this night, the tribal people gather on the banks of the river and mourn for their departed dear ones. They also sing sorrowful songs, offer sacrifices and finally bathe in the river.

But in the morning, the mood is completely transformed. The people are completely taken over by the festive mood. The fair takes the form of a colorful galore owing to the vibrant traditional clothes of the Bhils and Garasias. The Garasia women are usually dressed in bright blue, green and red saris or Ghaghras (long skirts). They team it up with heavy silver jewelry like ear rings, necklaces and tingling anklets. To make themselves look further attractive they put kajal in their eyes and red color on their lips and cheeks.

On the other hand, men wear a blue shirt, dhoti and a red or saffron turban on head. In contrast to this, the Bhils, though well dressed, are less ornately jeweled. On an average, around 60,000 to 70,000 tribals participate in this fair. Men beat drums which are accompanied by folk songs sung by the women. It is followed by dancing in merriment, till everyone is exhausted. After this, the stalls selling food, refreshment, drinks and sweets are surrounded by the mob of people. One can buy various household items and silver jewelry from here.

Children enjoy themselves in the giant wheel and the merry-go-round. The fair is also popular as a betrothal ground for the young tribal boys and girls. Young men and women attend this fair to find a suitable match for themselves. They even elope with each other to the forest adjacent to the river. After some days, they return to their community to get married. It is a common practice amongst the Bhils and the Garsias.

Tarnetar Mela

Tarnetar Mela is one of the most popular fairs of Gujarat. It is organized in a village called Tarnetar, situated at a distance of around 75 kilometers from Rajkot. It is an annual three day fair and is celebrated during the months of August-September and is also called the Trinetreshwar Mahadev Fair. Tarnetar Mela is an important fair for the tribal people of India and is therefore thronged by all the nearby tribes of the region. The major tribes which participate in this fair are Koli, Bharwad, Rabari, Khant, Kanbi, Kathi, and Charan.

There is an exciting story behind the commencement of the fair, which refers to the Mahabharta Era. It is said that the Swayamvar of Princess Draupadi was conducted here. According to the folklore, the Pandava Hero, Arjun, won Draupadi's hand by showing his skill at archery. This has made the Tarnetar Mela a 'marriage mart' or 'Swayamvar' for the tribal youth. The young tribal men come to this place to look for suitable brides for themselves. The vibrant fair is the main attraction for the tribal youth.

Men can be seen in traditional colorful attire of dhotis, waistcoats and eye-catching turbans. These men come here to be chosen by the young tribal lasses dressed in customary finery. All the bachelors sit under their respective colorfully embroidered umbrellas. These umbrellas are especially prepared for the occasion by the men themselves. The spirit of festivity is at its peak during the Tarnetar Mela. All the tribal people indulge in various merry making activities, like dancing, music, competitive sports etc.

The colorful site of the fair is just awesome. It is flanked by over 300 stalls, selling food, refreshments, exhibiting embroidery and cattle shows. One can get to see the traditional dance and music of the varied ethnic groups participating in the fair. Tarnetar Mela is held around the Trinetreshwar Temple, dedicated to the Lord Shiva. This temple is very ancient and belongs to the first century. There is a pond here, the water of which is considered as sacred as the water of river Ganges. The reservoir is often termed as Papanashu (the destroyer of sins).

Gujarat Fairs

Gujarat is famous for its spirit of festivity. Fairs constitute the cultural heritage of Gujarat. Most of them are celebrated have strong historical or mythological background behind their existence. A number of fairs are celebrated exclusively by the tribal population. Therefore, through these fairs, one can get to know the customs and traditions of the tribal people of Gujarat. Infact, these fairs are a reflection of the states cultural diversity. The experience of witnessing these traditional extravaganzas so closely is definitely unique.

Tarnetar Mela
Tarnetar Mela is one of the most popular fairs of Gujarat. It is organized in a village called Tarnetar, situated at a distance of around 75 kilometers from Rajkot. It is an annual three day fair and is celebrated during the months of August-September and is also called the Trinetreshwar Mahadev Fair.

Chitra-Vichitra Mela
Chitra-Vichitra Mela is a purely tribal fair that takes place in the Gumbhakhari village, which falls under the Sabarkantha district. The village is located almost on the border of Rajasthan and Gujarat. The venue of the fair is near a temple overlooking the rivers Sabarmati, Aakar and Vakar.

Shamlaji Melo
Shamlaji Melo takes place in a small town, Shamlaji, in Gujarat. The town is situated on the Delhi-Ahmedabad highway of India. Shamlaji Melo is also known as the Kartik Poornima fair, as it is celebrated on the full moon day in the month of Kartik.

Bhavnath Mahadev Mela
Bhavnath Mahadev Mela is celebrated near the Bhavnath Mahadev Temple, situated at the foothills of Mount Girnar, in the Junagarh city of Gujarat. The fair takes place on the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri. It is organized in the month of February and lasts for five days.

Gujarat Fairs and Festivals

Gujarat is one of the most vibrant states of India. It is located on the west coast and is known for its rich culture and heritage. The state has been amazingly blessed with wide diversity in every sphere. As a result, it has a wealth of tourist spots.
Gujarat could well be termed the 'Land of Festivals and Fairs' with almost 3,500 of them being celebrated in different parts of the state every year. Like elsewhere in India, the festivals and fairs of Gujarat revolve around an occasion - be it the turn of a season, the time for harvesting a golden field, or a religious event from India's extensive and rich mythological traditions.
What's more, these fairs and festivals, governed by the solar and lunar calendars of old world astrology, offer the visitor an excellent opportunity to experience the diverse cultural and religious identity of the people of Gujarat.
Gujarat has always been known for its splendid and evocative festivals. An estimated two thousand festivals are celebrated every year in Gujarat. More than two hundred of these are unforgettable occasions that attract tens of thousands of people. Though rooted in religion and mythology, these celebrations centreing around gods and goddesses are truly secular socials in which people of all faiths participate.