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Fair and
Festivals of
Karnataka
Apart from the
many festivals celebrated in India, Karnataka has its own set of
festivals which have a special significance for the people of
Karnataka.
Pattadakkal Dance Festival
Delicately carved temples rich in detail, stand still at
Pattadakkal, the ancient capital of the chalukyan kings. A
festival of dance celebrates this marvelous heritage. It is
celebrated in the month of January.
Makar Sankranti
It is a celebration of the occasion of the 'ascent' of the sun to
the north (Uttarayana). In Maharashtra, Karnataka as well as parts
of Andhra, Makar Sankranti is a day of goodwill and friendship.
Sesame Ladoos and sugar drops are distributed as a symbol of the
need to be generous and kind to everyone. Women wear new clothes,
new glass bangles and hold get-togethers to share sweets and
gifts. A new bride is given ornaments made of sugar drops and her
new relatives are invited to meet and welcome her at a haldi
kumkum celebration.
Hoysala Mahotsava (Belur - Helebid)
The dance festival held at Belur and Helebid is a magnificent
event. The Splendid Hoysala temples with their sculptural
extravaganza, make the perfect venue for this cultural feast. It
is celebrated in the month of March.
Ganesh Chaturthi
This day is dedicated to the Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god
of all good beginnings and success. Held annually, this festival
is a ten day long event. The images of Lord ganesha are installed
and worshipped and on the last day these are taken in processions
to be immersed in flowing water. The sea front, packed with
people, is a spectacular sight. It is celebrated in September.
Hampi Festival
The magnificent ruined city of Hampi, once the capital of the
Vijayanagar Empire, comes alive once again during this lively
festival of dance and music, held in the first week of November.
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