Ahmedabad is the center of Gujarati cultural activities and diverse traditions
of different ethnic and religious communities and enjoys a thriving cultural tradition.
As such a large number of festivals and events in Ahmedabad are held every year
to commemorate a whole lot of ceremonies. The most popular celebrations in this
city include Uttarayan and Navaratri.
Uttarayan is the time for kite festival in Ahmedabad. This event is always held
on January 14 to coincide with the festival of Uttarayan or Makar Sankranti. Though
Ahmedabad weather is unpredictable, this day of the year generally experiences
a sunny day with some clouds and wind. Kite flying starts at dawn and continues
throughout the day without pause. Friends, neighbors and total strangers battle
one another for supremacy and triumphant cries render the air heavy when one's
line is cut by another. This day sees a tremendous variety of kites and experts
can choose whatever they want. Preparations for this mega event of Kite Festival
start quite a few days in advance. Cries of Kaapyo Chhey can be heard in a million
voices throughout the day. It continues long into the nights when driving lamps
(Tukkal) are attached to the flying kites. A journey to Ahmedabad on this day
rewards you with a sky dotted with colorful kites.
Navaratri is another of the festivals and events in Ahmedabad which has gained
nation-wide reputation. The festival consists of nine nights devoted to Goddess
Shakti, when each night experiences celebration of a different form of the deity.
The famous Garba folk dance continues throughout the nine nights with everyone
taking part with same gusto. Each night starts with a ceremonial aarti and is
followed by Garba dance around the deity till late night. It is a colorful sight
to see the graceful Gujarati women in their best attire dancing the night away
with dandiyas in their hand. The short nights experience a brightly decorated
city during this time of the year.
Other festivals and events in Ahmedabad which are celebrated enthusiastically
and colorfully include Deepavali, Holi, Eid-ul-Fitr, and Christmas. The annual
Rath Yatra carrying deities on a rath with hundreds following behind, and the
Muharram are also popular festivals. Arrive on Ahmedabad during any of the festivals
and your vacation is rewarded with a glimpse into the colorful western Indian
people, culture and lifestyle.
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