Guest guest Posted February 15, 2005 Report Share Posted February 15, 2005 >From the "Only In India" Department ... VARANASI (Uttar Pradesh), Feb. 14, 2005: As people across India celebrated Basant Panchami, or the Spring Festival, women in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, found a unique way to mark the occasion. A special all-women's car rally with the machines decked in florals heralded the change of season in Varanasi. It was an interesting fusion of tradition and modern as the ladies took part in this one of a kind event on Sunday. "It is very big event, a great source of enjoyment for us and really great that something like this has been conceptualised and organised just for us," said Khalida, a participant. "It is the festival of Basant (Spring) today and celebrating it like this is really unique, we are getting a feel of colours that come alive in India's villages as crops bloom this season." On this day offerings are made to Saraswati, the Goddess of Learning, whose idol is decorated with mustard, sunflower and the colour of the season. Donning the colour of the season - yellow - the women and children were seen enjoying the spirit and fervour of the festival. "During Basant (Spring), women celebrate and begin any new thing after wearing yellow as it is the colour of happiness and this years since the rally is coinciding with the festival," said Ankita Aggarwal, another participant. "It is very appropriate that we are following the theme." Organised by a private company in collaboration with a voluntary group, the rally is held annually in the city considered as one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in India. Basant or Spring, which coincides with Panchami or the waxing moon at the end of January or early February, is considered auspicious by Indians. The day is also considered auspicious for initiation of children into learning. The tradition has it that children should not be helped by adults into learning until the initiation ceremony is performed before goddess Saraswati. (ANI) SOURCE: New Kerala URL: http://news.newkerala.com/india-news/?action=fullnews&id=71839 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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