Question

Find out which songs, dances, festivals and special food preparations are associated with certain seasons in your region. Do they have some commonality with other regions of India?

Answer 1

Dances:

1. Bharatnatyam: This is a multi-dimensional dance form that has been able to retain the principles enunciated in Bharata's Natya Bhasha. It has survived in the precincts of South Indian temples. It is a solo danced by women. This dance form has three aspects at a functional level; namely Nritta, Nritya and Natya. Kerala, Tamil Nadu states are the regions where this dance is performed.
2. Manipuri: As the name itself implies, this dance is originated from Manipur state of India. The Manipuri dance form is called Jagoi is considered to be one of the major dance forms of the country. Only movement of body and not codified gestures and expressions are incorporated with this dance. The dancer puts on a gorgeous dress covering her face with a veil and a skirt embedded with mirrors.
3. Kathkalli: This dance is performed in Kerala state. A story is expressed through the gestures and expressions with this dance. It embodies in a high degree the principles laid down in the ancient Hindu scriptures of dance and drama.
4. Kathak: It is performed in north India (Delhi, Haryana, U.P., Rajasthan etc.). It was patronized by the rulers of the north Indian princely states during the British regime.

Festivals:

1. Diwali: Diwali, the most prominent Hindu festival of India, is celebrated with a lot of pomp and show. Diwali is a festival of lights and decorations.
2. Holi: Holi signifies the victory of good over evil and the arrival of spring. Holi is the festival of colors. This festival is celebrated all over the country.
3. Durga Puja: One of the important festivals of India, Durga Puja is celebrated with grandeur by Bengalis, throughout the country. It commemorates Lord Rama’s invocation of Goddess Durga before going to war with the demon king Ravana.
4. Eid: Eid is one of the major festivals of India for the Muslim community. People dress up in fineries, attend a special community prayer in the morning, visit friends, and relatives and exchange sweets. Children are given idi(money or gift) by elders.

special food

1. Maharashtra: Misal Pav
2. Punjab: Makki Di Roti and Sarson Da Saag
3. West Bengal: Kosha Mangsho
4. Gujarat: Dhokla