Hemant Ritu
Hemant Ritu is one of the six Indian seasons that
welcomes the colder months. During this period, cold climatic conditions
prevails and is referred as the Pre-Winter season. As per the traditional Hindu
calendar, Hemant Ritu prevails during the ‘Margashirsha’ and ‘Pausa’ masa. In
the Gregorian calendar, it is from mid-October to mid-December. Hemant Ritu is
in fact the most pleasant and enjoyable time of the year. The weather is just
favourable to enhance the spirit of festivities experienced during this time.
Festivals observed during this Season:
- Hemant Ritu is the season that celebrates
several of important Hindu festivals. These festivals highlight the rich
diversity of the Hindu calendar. Some of the popular events during Hemant
Ritu are:
- Dhanteras: The festival of Dhanteras marks
the beginning of 5-day long Diwali celebrations. It is observed on the
‘Trayodashi’ (13th day) during the ‘Krishna Paksha’ (the waning phase of
moon) in the Hindu month of Kartik. On the day of Dhanteras, Hindus
worship Goddess Lakshmi to seek Her divine blessings for well-being and
prosperity. Dhanteras is also called as ‘Dhanvantari Trayodashi’ and holds
special importance for business community.
- Diwali: Diwali, known as ‘The Festival of
Lights’ is one of the ancient Hindu festivals that is celebrated with
utmost enthusiasm and devotion in India. It is the brightest and biggest
of all Hindu festivals. The celebrations and rituals of Diwali extend for
a period of five days, however the main festival of Diwali is observed on
the no moon day of the Kartik month. On Diwali, people illuminate their
houses with diyas or lights and the sound of bursting crackers fills the
environment. Diwali is the festival of merriment, joy and goodness.
- Bhai Dooj: The festival of Bhai Dooj
celebrates the selfless bond of love between brothers and sisters. It
marks the end of the 5-day grand Diwali festivities and is observed on the
‘Dwitiya’ (2nd day) during the Shukla Paksha (the growing phase of moon)
in the month of Kartik. On Bhai Dooj, sisters perform the Tika ceremony
and pray for the prosperity and long life of their brothers.
- Guru Nanak Jayanti: Guru Nanak Jayanti
commemorates the birthday of Guru Nanak, who is also the first Sikh Guru.
It is the most sacred festival for the followers of Sikhism. Guru Nanak
Jayanti is celebrated on the ‘Kartik Purnima’ (full moon day of the Kartik
month) and special events are held in Gurudwaras all across India.
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