Government of Bihar

Shri Samrat Choudhary Hon'ble Chief Minister

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KNOW BIHAR - Festivals & Occasions

Festivals

Major Festivals

Mahaparv in Bihar (Chhath Pooja)

Chhath Puja is one of India’s most ancient and unique festivals, dedicated to the Sun God (Surya) and his consort Chhathi Maiya (Usha). While celebrated across various regions, its heart and soul reside in Bihar, where it is more than just a ritual—it is a cultural identity. 1. The Significance of Bihar In Bihar, Chhath is known as Mahaparv (the greatest festival). Its significance is rooted in several layers: Purity and Discipline: It is one of the most rigorous festivals. It involves a 36-hour fast without water (Nirjala), holy bathing, and standing in water for long periods. Social Equality: Chhath is a rare festival where there is no requirement for a priest (Pandit). Devotees (Vratis) offer prayers directly to Nature. Historically, it has been a tool for social integration, as people from all walks of life gather at the same riverbanks (Ghats). The Setting Sun: Unique to this festival is the worship of the Setting Sun (Pratyusha) before the Rising Sun (Usha). This symbolizes the cycle of life—that every end holds the promise of a new beginning.

MAKARSANKRANTI

Makar Sankranti, known locally in Bihar as Sakraat or Khichdi, marks the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara). In Bihar, this festival is deeply tied to the agricultural cycle, traditional cuisine, and social bonding. 1. The Scientific and Spiritual Significance Makar Sankranti is one of the few Indian festivals aligned with the solar cycle rather than the lunar cycle. The Upward Journey: It marks the beginning of Uttarayan, the six-month period when the Sun travels northward. This is considered an auspicious time of "light" and "harvest" after the cold, dark winter months. A Fresh Start: Spiritually, it symbolizes the end of the chaotic Kharmas month (an inauspicious period in the Hindu calendar), allowing for new beginnings, marriages, and housewarmings to resume in Bihar. 2. Bihar’s Unique Culinary Traditions In Bihar, the festival is defined by specific foods that are both ritualistic and scientifically suited for the winter season. Dahi-Chura: The hallmark of a Bihari Sakraat. People eat beaten rice (Chura) with thick curd (Dahi) and jaggery (Gur). Til-Gud (Sesame and Jaggery): High-calorie foods like Tilwa (sesame seeds mixed with jaggery) and Ladoo are consumed. Sesame is believed to provide warmth and spiritual purity. The "Khichdi" Tradition: The festival is so synonymous with the dish that it is often called the 'Khichdi' festival. It is customary to eat a special Khichdi made with new rice, pulses, ginger and ghee during the day or evening. 3. Rituals and Social Relevance in Bihar The celebration in Bihar is characterized by community participation and nature worship: Holy Dip (Snan): Thousands of devotees flock to the banks of the Ganga in Patna, Munger and Bhagalpur or the Gandak river, for a ritualistic bath at dawn. Charity (Daan): It is a tradition to donate Khichdi ingredients (rice, dal, salt, turmeric) and winter essentials like blankets to the needy, emphasizing social responsibility. Kite Flying: While more famous in Gujarat, kite flying has become a vibrant part of the skyline in cities like Patna and Gaya during the afternoon of Sakraat.

BASANT PANCHAMI

Basant Panchami, also known as Saraswati Puja in Bihar, is one of the most vibrant festivals in the state. It marks the fifth day of the lunar month of Magha and heralds the arrival of spring (Basant). In Bihar, this day is almost entirely dedicated to Maa Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, music, and arts. 1. Significance in Bihar In a state where education and "Vidya" are traditionally held in the highest regard, Basant Panchami is more than just a religious day, it is a celebration of the intellect. The Birthday of Knowledge: It is believed that Goddess Saraswati manifested on this day to bring sound, logic and creativity to the world. The Yellow Hue: Yellow (Basanti) is the dominant color of the festival. It represents the ripening of mustard crops in the fields of Bihar and symbolizes energy, prosperity, and the light of knowledge. Abujh Muhurat: The day is considered so auspicious that people in Bihar often start new ventures, perform housewarmings (Griha Pravesh), or schedule weddings without needing to consult a priest for a specific time.

MAHASHIVARATRI

In Bihar, Mahashivratri is celebrated with a blend of deep meditative devotion and exuberant communal joy. While it is a pan-Indian festival, Bihar adds its own unique flavor through massive processions, ancient temple traditions, and the concept of the "Divine Wedding." 1. The "Shiv Vivah" Concept In Bihar, Mahashivratri is not just seen as a day of fasting; it is celebrated as the wedding anniversary of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Shiv Baraat: This is the highlight in cities like Patna, Muzaffarpur, and Gaya. Thousands of devotees dress up as ghosts (bhutas), spirits, and deities to form Shiva’s wedding procession. They dance through the streets to the sound of drums and traditional folk songs, mimicking the celestial wedding party described in the Puranas. The Ritual of Gathbandhan: In many Bihari households and temples, the idols of Shiva and Parvati are symbolically "tied" together with a sacred thread, signifying a prayer for marital harmony and longevity.

HOLI

The Holi, also known as the "festival of colours", is an Indian spring festival celebrated all across the Indian subcontinent. It signifies the victory of good over evil, the arrival of spring, end of winter, and for many a festive day to meet others, play and laugh, forget and forgive.

GOOD FRIDAY

Good Friday is a Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary. It is observed during Holy Week as part of the Paschal Triduum on the Friday preceding Easter Sunday and may coincide with the Jewish observance of Passover.

RAMNAVMI

The Rama Navami is a spring Hindu festival that celebrates the birthday of god Rama. He is particularly important to the Vaishnavism tradition of Hinduism, as the seventh avatar of Vishnu. The festival is a part of the spring Navratri, and falls on the ninth day of the bright half (Shukla Paksha) in the Hindu calendar month of Chaitra. This typically occurs in the Gregorian months of March or April every year.

JANAKI NAVAMI

Janaki Navami (also known as Sita Navami) holds a profound and unparalleled significance in Bihar, as it marks the birth anniversary of Mata Sita, the daughter of the soil. While the rest of India celebrates Ram Navami with great fervor, for the people of Bihar—especially in the Mithila region—Janaki Navami is an intimate celebration of their own "daughter." 1. The Roots: Bihar as Sita’s "Maika" (Paternal Home) In Bihar, Sita is not just a goddess; she is a daughter, a sister, and a symbol of resilience. The Discovery: According to the Ramayana, King Janak of Mithila found baby Sita in a golden casket while plowing a field during a ritual to end a severe drought. Sitamarhi: This district in Bihar is believed to be her birthplace. Specifically, Punaura Dham in Sitamarhi is revered as the exact spot where the plow struck the earth. Mithila Culture: The entire cultural fabric of North Bihar (Madhubani, Darbhanga, Sitamarhi) is woven around Sita. Traditional songs often depict her childhood, her wedding, and her deep connection to the land of Mithila. 2. Rituals and Traditions in Bihar The Vrat (Fast): Women across Bihar observe a strict fast on this day, praying for the longevity of their husbands and the well-being of their families, drawing inspiration from Sita’s virtues. Sita Kund: Thousands of devotees visit the holy tanks (Sita Kund) in Sitamarhi and Munger to take a ritualistic dip. Mithila Painting (Madhubani Art): On this day, artists often create intricate paintings depicting the "Swayamvar" (wedding) or Sita’s birth, using natural colors and traditional motifs. Offerings: Since she was found in a field, seasonal fruits and grains are offered. A special preparation of Jaggery and Rice (Rasiya) is often distributed as Prasad. 3. Cultural Significance: The Pride of Bihar The "Daughter" Sentiment: In Bihari folk tradition, Lord Ram is often playfully teased in songs as the "Pahuna" (son-in-law). On Janaki Navami, the focus shifts entirely to Sita’s grace and her strength as a woman who rose from the earth. Social Values: Sita is worshipped here as a symbol of patience and purity. The festival serves as a reminder of the historical and spiritual importance of the Mithila region in ancient Indian civilization.

BUDDHA PURNIMA

Vesak (Buddha Purnima, Buddha Jayanti) is a Buddhist festival that marks Gautama Buddha's birth, enlightenment and death. It falls on the day of the full moon in May and it is a gazetted holiday in India.

EID-UL-FITR

Eid Ul-Fitr, Malay "Lebaran", "feast of breaking the fast") is an important religious holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide that marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting (sawm). This religious Eid (Muslim religious festival) is the first and only day in the month of Shawwal during which Muslims are not required to keep fast. The holiday celebrates the conclusion of the 29 or 30 days of dawn-to-sunset fasting during the entire month of Ramadan. The day of Eid, therefore, falls on the first day of the month of Shawwal. The date for the start of any lunar Hijri month varies based on the observation of new moon.

SHRI KRISHNA JANAMASHTMI

Krishna Janmashtami, also known simply as Janmashtami or Gokulashtami, is an annual Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu. It is observed according to Hindu luni-solar calendar, on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) in the month of Bhado or Bhadra of the Hindu Calendar, which overlaps with August and September of the Gregorian calendar.

ID-AL-ADHA (Bakreed)

Eid-al-Adha, also called the "Sacrifice Feast", is the second of two Islamic holidays celebrated worldwide each year, and considered the holier of the two. It honors the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son, as an act of obedience to God's command. Before Abraham sacrificed his son, God provided a lamb to sacrifice instead. In commemoration of this, an animal is sacrificed and divided into three parts: one third of the share is given to the poor and needy; another third is given to relatives, friends and neighbors; and the remaining third is retained by the family.

DURGA POOJA

Durga Puja, also called Durgotsava, is an annual Hindu festival in the Indian subcontinent that reveres the goddess Durga. It is particularly popular in West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Assam, Tripura, Bangladesh and the diaspora from this region, and also in Nepal where it is called Dashain. The festival is observed in the Hindu calendar month of Ashvin, typically September or October of the Gregorian calendar, and is a multi-day festival that features elaborate temple and stage decorations (pandals), scripture recitation, performance arts, revelry, and processions. It is a major festival in the Shaktism tradition of Hinduism across India and Shakta Hindu diaspora.

MUHARRAM

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar. It is one of the four sacred months of the year. It is held to be the holiest month, Ramadan coming after. The word "Muharram" means "forbidden". Since the Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar, Muharram moves from year to year when compared with the Gregorian calendar.

DEEPAWALI

Diwali or Deepavali is the Hindu festival of lights celebrated every year in autumn in the northern hemisphere (spring in southern hemisphere). One of the most popular festivals of Hinduism, it spiritually signifies the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair. Its celebration includes millions of lights shining on housetops, outside doors and windows, around temples and other buildings in the communities and countries where it is observed. The word Diwali is used by some communities to mean all the festivities while others think of it as one festival night on the no moon day of the Hindu Lunisolar month Kartika in Bikram Sambat calendar (the month of Aippasi in Tamil Calendar). In the Gregorian calendar, Diwali falls in mid-October and mid-November.

CHITRAGUPTA POOJA/BHAI DOOJ

Every year, a day after the festival of lights Diwali, Kayastha’s all over the world celebrate Chitragupta Puja also known as Kalam-Dawaat Puja. This festival falls on the second day of the lunar day of Shukla Paksha in the Vikram Samvat calendar month of Kartik and coincides with Bhai Dooj. Devotees believe that by doing this puja they will be benefited and get to ascend to heaven as Chitragupta Maharaj keeps a record of all good and evil deeds of humans and by praying to him on this day they get absolution from all the sins. Upon the death of a human being, it is Chitragupta Maharaj who decides on heaven or hell for the person depending on their good work or bad deeds on earth. Bhai Dooj is a festival celebrated by Hindus of India and Nepal on the second lunar day of Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) in the Vikram Samvat Hindu calendar month of Kartika.

CHEHALLUM

Arba'een, Chehllum is a Shia Muslim religious observance that occurs forty days after the Day of Ashura. It commemorates the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of the Islamic prophet Muhammad, who was killed on the 10th day of the month of Muharram. Imam Husayn ibn Ali and 72 companions were killed by Yazid I's army in the Battle of Karbala in 61 AH (680 CE).

HAJRAT MOHAMMAD SAHAB'S BIRTHDAY

Sunni Muslims observe the Prophet Muhammed's (also known as Mohammed or Muhammad) birthday on the 12th day of the Islamic month of Rabi' al-awwal, while Shi'a Muslims mark it on the 17th of this month. Muhammed is believed to be the last prophet.

CHRISTMAS

Christmas is an annual festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, observed primarily on December 25 as a religious and cultural celebration among billions of people around the world. A feast central to the Christian liturgical year, it is preceded by the season of Advent or the Nativity Fast and initiates the season of Christmastide, which historically in the West lasts twelve days and culminates on Twelfth Night; in some traditions, Christmastide includes an octave. Christmas Day is a public holiday in many of the world's nations, is celebrated religiously by a majority of Christians, as well as culturally by many non-Christians, and forms an integral part of the holiday season centered around it.

National, Cultural & Religious Occasions

GURU GOVIND SINGH JAYANTI

For Bihar, Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti (also known as Prakash Parv) is a festival of immense pride and historical weight. While Sikhism is practiced globally, Patna holds a special place in the Sikh heart as the birthplace of the tenth Guru. 1. The Bihar Connection: Takhat Sri Patna Sahib Patna is home to Takhat Sri Patna Sahib, one of the five Takhats (Seats of Authority) of Sikhism. The Birth: Guru Gobind Singh Ji was born here in 1666 as Gobind Rai. He spent his early childhood playing in the streets of Patna before moving to Anandpur Sahib. The Cradle of a Warrior-Saint: The Gurdwara commemorates the house where he was born. It is considered the second most important pilgrimage site for Sikhs after the Golden Temple. 2. The Grand Celebration: Prakash Parv The "Prakash Parv" in Patna is a massive state-sponsored event that draws lakhs of devotees from across the globe. Nagar Kirtan: A majestic procession starts from Gaighat Gurdwara to Patna Sahib. It features the Panj Pyare (Five Beloved Ones), Gatka (Sikh martial arts) performances, and devotional singing (Kirtan). Deep-Daan: In the evening, the entire Gurdwara complex and the surrounding "Old City" of Patna are illuminated with thousands of lights and candles, creating a golden glow over the Ganga. Langar (Community Kitchen): Huge community kitchens are set up across the city. In Bihar, it is a tradition for people of all faiths—Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs—to sit together on the floor and eat the blessed meal, symbolizing equality. 3. Cultural and Social Significance State Pride: The Government of Bihar treats this as a flagship cultural event. The "Shukrana Samaroh" (Closing Ceremony) often sees participation from the highest state officials, highlighting Bihar's communal harmony. The Legacy of Courage: For the youth of Bihar, the Guru’s life is a symbol of standing up against oppression. His famous quote, "Sawa lakh se ek ladaun" (I will make one fight a lakh), is frequently invoked as a testament to bravery. The Khalsa Identity: It was the Guru born in Bihar who eventually founded the Khalsa Panth, giving the Sikh community the "Five Ks" and the titles of Singh (Lion) and Kaur (Princess).

INDEPENDENCE DAY

Independence Day is annually celebrated on 15 August, as a national holiday in India commemorating the nation's independence from the United Kingdom on 15 August 1947, On 15 August 1947, the Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru unfurled the Indian national flag above the Lahori Gate of the Red Fort in Delhi. On each subsequent Independence Day, the prime minister customarily hoists the flag and gives an address the nation.

REPUBLIC DAY

Republic Day honours the date on which the Constitution of India came into effect on 26 January 1950 replacing the Government of India Act (1935) as the governing document of India.

MAHAVEER JAYANTI

Mahaveer Janma Kalyanak, is one of the most important religious festival for Jains. It celebrates the birth of Mahaveer, the twenty-fourth and last Tirthankara.

VEER KUNWAR SINGH JAYANTI

Veer Kunwar Singh Jayanti, celebrated as Vijay Utsav (Victory Day) on April 23rd, is a day of immense patriotic fervor in Bihar. It commemorates the legendary chieftain from Jagdishpur (Bhojpur district) who, at the age of 80, became one of the most formidable leaders of the Indian Rebellion of 1857. In Bihar, he is not just a historical figure; he is the "Lion of Bihar," a symbol of unyielding courage against colonial rule. 1. The Significance: The Hero of 1857 While the 1857 revolt had many leaders, Kunwar Singh’s story is unique due to his age and his tactical genius. The "Grand Old Man" of the Rebellion: Despite being 80 years old and in failing health, he led a private army against the British East India Company. Guerrilla Warfare: He was a master of hit-and-run tactics, utilizing the geography of Bihar (the Ganges and the jungles of Jagdishpur) to outmaneuver the British forces. The Ultimate Sacrifice: Legend says that while crossing the Ganges, a British bullet shattered his left wrist. To prevent infection, he drew his sword, severed his own hand, and offered it to the River Ganga, saying: "Hey Ganga Maiya! Tohaar pichli bhent sweekaar kara" (Mother Ganga, accept this last offering). 2. Vijay Utsav: Celebrating the Victory of Jagdishpur The Jayanti is specifically celebrated as Vijay Utsav because, on April 23, 1858, Kunwar Singh won a decisive victory against the British forces led by Captain Le Grand. He recaptured his fort in Jagdishpur and hoisted the flag of freedom, though he passed away three days later from his wounds. State-Level Celebration: The Government of Bihar organizes massive events in Jagdishpur and Patna. In 2022, a world record was set in Jagdishpur where over 78,000 national flags were waved simultaneously in his honor. Folk Songs (Pachra and Alha): In the Bhojpur region, folk singers narrate his bravery through "Veer Ras" (heroic) songs. His life is a staple of local oral traditions, passed down through generations. 3. Relevance to Bihar’s Identity Social Unity: Kunwar Singh is remembered for his inclusive leadership. His army consisted of soldiers from all castes and religions, including prominent Muslim commanders, making him a symbol of communal harmony in Bihar. Symbol of Resistance: For the people of Bihar, he represents the spirit of "Never say die." His name is invoked to inspire courage and self-respect. Legacy in Education: To honor his memory, the Veer Kunwar Singh University (VKSU) was established in Ara in 1992, serving as a hub for higher education in the Bhojpur region.

MAHATMA GANDHI JAYANTI

While Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti (October 2nd) is a national holiday across India, it holds a deeply personal and transformative significance for Bihar. It was on the soil of Bihar that Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi truly became the "Mahatma." 1. The Bihar Connection: The Birth of Satyagraha Bihar was the laboratory for Gandhi’s first major non-violent movement in India—the Champaran Satyagraha of 1917. The Call from Champaran: A local farmer, Raj Kumar Shukla, persisted for months to bring Gandhi to Bihar to see the plight of indigo farmers suffering under the oppressive "Tinkathia" system. The Turning Point: Gandhi arrived in Motihari and Bettiah, where he defied British orders to leave. This was the first time "Civil Disobedience" was tested on Indian soil. From Gandhi to Mahatma: It is widely recognized by historians that while South Africa made him a leader, Champaran made him the Mahatma.

KABIR JAYANTI

Sant Kabirdas (1440-1518 circa) was a famous poet, saint and social reformer of India. His writings have greatly influenced the Bhakti movement. Kabir Panth which is a religious community recognizes him as its founder and its members are known as Kabir Panthis, the followers of Saint Kabirdas. His writings include Bijak, Sakhi Granth, Kabir Granthawali and Anurag Sagar. The major part of Kabir's work was collected by the fifth Sikh Guru, Guru Arjan Dev, and incorporated into the Sikh scripture Guru Granth Sahib. The hallmark of Kabir's work consists of his two line couplets, known as Kabir Ke Dohe. The birth anniversary of Sant Kabir is observed on Jyeshtha Purnima as per Hindu lunar calendar.