| Urs (Ajmer, Rajasthan):The Urs are held every year
at the dargah of the Sufi Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti, commemorating his symbolic union
with God. Pilgrims from all over the world gather here to pay their homage. Qawaalis
(poems) are sung in the Saints honour. 
Ganga Dussehra (Uttar Pradesh):In this festival ten days are
devoted to the worship of the River Ganga. According to the legends, Gangavataran
or the descent of the Ganga, happened at this time. Devotees touch the river water, bathe
in it, and take the river clay home to venerate. In Haridwar, aratis are performed at
twilight and a large number of devotees meditate on her serene banks.

Hemis Festival (Jammu & Kashmir):Is celebrated at Hemis,
the biggest Buddhist Monastery in Ladakh to mark the birth anniversary of Guru
Padmasambhava . Splendid masked dances are performed to the accompaniment of cymbals,
drums and long horns. A colourful fair, displaying some beautiful handicrafts, is the
special highlight of the festival.

|
|