With the arrival of October and a modest dip in temperature, the happy festive spirit is felt all around, as everyone is warming up for the festivities ahead. October marks the beginning of the enormous splendour of festivals in India. It is an ideal time to feel the pulse of the incredible diversity of India, as the wide variety of cultural and religious festivals that are celebrated in various ways throughout the country can be seen and enjoyed. October undoubtedly ushers in a season of vibrant festivities and exuberant celebrations that paint the country in hues of joy.
India is renowned for its many joyous festivals; in fact, they have become a part of our life and the environment in which we have grown up. Festivals are observed for more than simply cultural or religious reasons. Festivals provide the public with much more; they foster a feeling of camaraderie, bring people together and create a sense of belonging in the community.
Though we all love festivals, they are most enjoyed by children in particular. October is the month children eagerly wait as their mid-term exams get over and the upcoming festivals offer much-needed respite from the monotony of hectic routine. For them, a festival is an occasion to celebrate with lights, treats, gifts, and other activities. The celebration of festivals, however, offers a wealth of educational opportunities for children. Festivals have the power to mould children into happy, social beings.
Our age-old traditions have given the country a variety of festivals and fairs. Many tourists travel to India to observe the numerous festivals and take part in the celebration and merry-making. Every celebration, whether it be Holi, Dusshera, Diwali, Christmas, Eid, or Gurupurb, involves people gathering together and helping one another in having a wonderful time. Children are taught the value of community and the fun of teamwork. Children who participate in festival preparations make a place for themselves in the community of people. Together, they discover how to collaborate with everyone and successfully celebrate as a group.
Having the entire family together to celebrate a belief is another benefit of festivals. All members of the family work together at home to prepare meals and other preparations related to the festival. Children spend time together and, in the process, strengthen their bonds with their family – with their grandparents, cousins, and other relatives.
Festivals also involve sharing and exchanging gifts. Children are taught to share joys during festivals through the gift-exchange custom. Children spread the festive cheer by giving gifts and treats to family and friends. Children learn to share and care when they donate or give gifts to the less fortunate, to those who would not be able to celebrate such festivals without their support. This instils in them the value of kindness and humility. They also learn to express gratitude for their possessions and blessings.
Festivals are a wonderful method to learn about other cultures. During festivals and celebrations, children learn more about their own culture and their nation. They learn about their global roots as they observe people celebrating their festivals all across the world. They become more appreciative of their nation and culture as a result. Festivals are the time of year when historical tales are brought to light to educate youngsters about the past and help them appreciate the value of celebration across generations.
The best thing about festivals is they unite people from diverse cultures and groups. They bind us all with the joyous thread of happiness and celebrations, peace and unity. Festivals teach some deeper lessons about life also. Even as the youngsters enjoy themselves during festivities, they unconsciously learn beautiful, priceless and enduring lessons.
Dr G. S. Matharoo
Chairman
Prudence Group of Schools