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"Education is a liberating force, and in

our age it is also a democratising force,
, cutting across the barriers of caste and
class, smoothing out inequalities imposed
by birth and other circumstances. "

- Indira Gandhi
~
~
Indira Gandhi
National Open University
OVA-OOl
School of Performing and Indian Cultural Heritage
Visual Art

Block

2
POPULAR CULTURE
UNIT 1
Oral Traditions 5

UNIT 2
Festivals 10

UNIT 3
Pilgrimage Centres 18
Expert Committee
Prof. T.K. Venkatasubramanian Prof. Mahesh Champaklal
Department of History Dean, Faculty of Dramatics
Faculty of Social Sciences M S University, Vadodara
University of Delhi
Dr. (Smt.) Chodamani Nandgopal
Dr. Kanak Rele Member, Research & Project Consultant
Director, Nalanda Dance Research Centre Bangalore
Plot - 7/l N S Road No. 10
Prof. C. Gajendra Naidu
JVPD Scheme, Ville Parle (West)
Nodal Officer & Head
Mumbai
Project Facilitation Unit
Smt. Saroja Vaidyanathan IGNOU, New Delhi
Director, Ganesha Natyalaya (Till February, 2009)
Vasant Kunj, New Delhi
Prof. Sunil Kumar
Prof. Chinmay Mehta Director
Former Dean, Faculty of Fine Arts School of Performaing and Visual Arts
University of Rajasthan, Jaipur IGNOU, New Delhi

Block Preparation Team

Unit Contribution Content Editing
Dr. (Smt.) Chodamani Nandgopal Dr.. Mallika Banerjee
Member, Research & Project Consultant School ofPerformaing and Visual Arts
Bangalore IGNOU, New Delhi
Unit Design and Format Editing Language Editing
Prof. Sunil Kumar Miss Pooja Arora
Director School of Humanities
School of Performaing and Visual Arts Faculty of English
IGNOU, New Delhi IGNOU, New Delhi
Mohd. Tahir Siddiqui Descipline Coordination
School of Performaing and Visual Arts
Dr. Govindaraju Bharadwaza
IGNOU, New Delhi
School ofPerformaing and Visual Arts
IGNOU, New Delhi

Print Production
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January, 2010
© Indira Gandhi National Open University, 2010
ISBN: 978-81-266-4532-9
All rights reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced in any form, by mimeograph or any
other means, without permission in writing from the copyright holder.
Further information on the Indira Gandhi National Open University courses may be obtained
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Printed and published on behalf of Indira Gandhi National Open University, New Delhi by the
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BLOCK 2 INTRODUCTION
The units we have studied in this paper have mainly dealt with the various ways in
which the cultural heritage of India is seen and also felt. It may be in the religions
we follow, the literature we study and understand, the greatness of Indian rock-cut
and structural architectural heritage, it may be Buddhist, Hindu, Islamic edifices or
some of the structures built in Colonial times, the types of icon, the murtis or
images we worship etc. The entire portion what we have studied made us to
understand how Indian cultural heritage is associated with the happenings in Indian
history.

But what we are studying in this Block is very much different from the ones we
have studied earlier. You must have visited a pilgrimage with your parents, attended
a fair of a temple like Rathayatras, public events like Independence Day celebrations
or festivals like Diwali, Holi, Rarnzan, Christmas and such others. In the same way
the tribal population in India and village folk follow many tribal and folk traditions.
All these interest us in one way or the other. They are celebrated and observed in
a common way. Such observances of common people are referred to be known as
Popular Culture.

Popular Culture is seen in everyday activities of the people. It is the cultural ways
liked by all or it is known as common ways of society. These common ways have
been evolved on the basis of the belief systems, customs and religious faiths of
common people. Popular culture refers to what is popular within the social
context what is perceived to be popularly accepted among society.

Popular culture comprises the daily interactions, needs and desires. It would also
include any number of practices and ideas, may be such as cooking, clothing, ways
of worship, celebrations, festivals, fairs, visit to pilgrimages, folk songs, and dances,
oral traditions like chanting, story telling etc. Popular culture also includes the way
people enjoy to go for entertainment, sports or even literature. Before the television
and film were invented the people in the villages in India used to organise many
programmes and celebrations. They are all considered as popular culture.

Now television and films have become important ways and means to know present
Indian popular culture. It is the expression in the mass circulation such as fashion,
music, design, sport and fIlm which get more attention by the common people.

Objectives

Once you study this Block you will be able to:

• understand what do we mean by popular culture;

• in what way the people in villages and tribal societies follow their traditions;

• how oral tradition is so important to Indian culture;

• you will know the significance of celebrating different festivals belonging to

different faiths in our country; and

• We also understand the importance the pilgrimages have in the liyes of

common people and their life-style.
UNIT! ORAL TRADITIONS
Structure
1.1 Oral Tradition and Trends
1.2 Significance of Oral Tradition in India
1.3 Intangible Heritage - UNESCO
1.4 Representational Examples

1.5 Self Assessment Questions

1.6 Terminal Questions
1.7 Answers

1.1 ORAL TRADITION - TRENDS

Every one of us as a child was always interested to listen to the stories. Particularly
if the grand parents or elderly neighbors are around they will tell a different story
every day. Do they refer to any book or CD? No. they will be telling the stories
and events orally. The stories of Ramayana, Mahabharata, stories of kings, queens,
saints or legends from villages or pilgrimages, the events associated with freedom
movement in India are all interesting to listen. Before the arrival of television and
video games the chants, songs, stories were told and retold. The children always
looked forward for the story time. Many questions were asked and answers were
given convincingly. This ability to remember and narrate has come from our culture
and tradition. So they ar~ known as Oral tradition. It is also called as oral culture
and oral lore. It is the way a society transmits its history, literature, and social
order and knowledge of various kinds. All these pass on from one generation to
the next generations without a writing system.

Oral Tradition can be defined as the recording, preservation and interpretation of

historical information, or narration of events based on the personal experiences or
it has been a oral singing or chant or narration of the story pertaining to particular
community. Even the chants offered in rituals belong to the category of oral
tradition.

The oral tradition remains a unique testament to the capacity of the human brain to
absorb, remember and reproduce structures of great complexity and sophistication
without a system of written notation.

It often takes the form of eye-witness evidence about past events, but can include
folklore, myths, songs, and stories passed down over the years by word of mouth.
While it is an invaluable way of preserving the knowledge and understanding of
older people, it can also inv.olve interviewing younger generations. More recently,
the use of video recording techniques has expanded the realm of oral history
beyond verbal forms of communication and also recording the actions and gestures.

1.2 SIGNIFICANCE OF ORAL TRADITION IN INDIA

It may be songs or rituals or stories or the prepararicn of medicines, or dishes
which are practiced in common by a group ul people over several generations.
They are distinct in some way from written information. In general "oral tradition"
5
Popular Culture refers to the transmission of cultural material through saying, and was long kept as
tradition by village folk which are known folklore. Before the script or writing
developed, the four Vcdas, Ramayana and Mahabharata were in oral form. The
entire scripture was learnt by memory. It was recorded in personal memories. It
was very much essential to be transmitted to others. In this way they had passed
their acquired knowledge to know generation. In many countries due to the growth
of cities and industries the opportunities to remember and transfer are lost. Many
folk practices, songs, narratives have faded away. They are not in living form.

But in India the rural society is still large and a large section of population lives in
villages. So the oral tradition is living tradition. The chants in the temples, bhajans,
sankirtans, folk songs, legends, cult practices, raslila tradition, the harvest songs
and rituals, songs and legends associated with the celebrations of Holi festival,
Nautanki, Ramayan Katha and other kathas, (stories), Harikathas, the ways of
cooking large number of dishes in each region, Bhuta worship, Vedic yajnas,
reciting Quran, Bible or Gurugranth and such other scriptures are all very much
practiced in our country. All these Holy Books available in the written version
today were in the oral versions once upon a time before they were scripted. The
folk fairs and festivals are regularly conducted in mass scale. These oral traditions
were part of fairs and festivals. There are plenty of opportunities for the people to
know and participate in these occasions, where the oral traditions play a significant
role.

In India Oral form of literature is privileged than the written form. It is always easy
to remember poetry than the prose. The oral tradition has been continuing from
ancient times and will keep evolving in future too, of course they may take new
forms depending on the prevailing socio-cultural environment.

Historians, folklorists, (the experts in folk traditions) sociologists and journalists,

are the people who are well informed about the oral traditions. During their
research and field work they come across with many kinds of oral traditions of
various places. The content of these traditions are applicable to real life, society,
belief systems of the common people belonging to particular community. Earlier
these were recorded and written about in the books, newspapers. But today they
are regarded as the important academic discipline. Scholars and practitioners of the
traditions are working together to document and revive and also restore these
traditions. There is great awareness in the communities where oral tradition is
sigrLificantfor their survival.

1.3 INTANGIBLE HERITAGE - UNESCO

UNESCO, the international body is taking lot of interest in the oral traditions,
which is covered under Intangible Cultural Heritage. According to UNESCO
Cultural heritage is not limited to material manifestations, such as monuments and
objects that have been preserved over time. This notion also encompasses living
expressions and the traditions that countless groups and communities worldwide
have inherited from their ancestors and transmit to their descendants, in most cases
are unnoticed.

Many years of research undertaken by UNESCO on the functions and values of

cultural expressions and practices have opened the door to new approaches to the
understanding, protection and respect of the cultural heritage of humanity. This
living heritage, known as intangible, provides each bearer of such expressions a
6
sense of identity and continuity, insofar as he or she takes ownership of them and Oral Traditions
constantly recreates them.

As a driving force of cultural diversity, living heritage is very fragile. In recent years,
it has received international recognition and its safeguarding has become one of the
priorities of international cooperation thanks to UNESCO's leading role in the
adoption of the Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage.

1.4 REPRESENTATIONAL EXAMPLES

For Indian peoples, the narratives or what are often referred to as the oral
traditions convey their most cherished values as well as contribute to the perpetuation
of their worlds. The narratives encompass a variety of categories, two of the most
prominent being the stories of creation and the tales of human or mythological
heroes.

Vedic Chants: In the year 2003 UNESCO recognised the Vedic chants as the
most valuable oral tradition for the humanity. The knowledge, contents, the ways of
chanting of Vedas is regarded as invaluable. This has directed Indian Vedic
scholars to consolidate their efforts to safeguard and revive the oral tradition in the
Vedic learning tradition.

The teaching of classical music and dance: The teaching of classical music and
dance has been primarily oral. The raga and its structure, the intricate nuances of
tala or rhythm, and the rendering of raga and tala as bandish or composition, are
passed on from guru to shishya by word of mouth and through direct demonstration.
There is no printed sheet of music, with notation acting as the medium, to impart
knowledge. Similarly in Indian classical dance also the steps, movements, abhinaya,
the use of hand gestures and dancing for compositions are all depends on the
ability of a teacher to teach the disciple. They are not found in written form. It is
directly taught by the guru in oral form to a shishya.

Bhajan Tradition: In Maharashtra, millions from all walks of life go on a pilgrimage

twice every year to Pandharpur a temple-town. As they travel, they sing the poems
composed by Dnyaneshwarea (13th Century), Eknath (15th Century) and Tukaram
(l7th Century). The entire body of songs consists of hundreds of the medieval
poems learnt orally. Similarly, the poems of Mira, Nanak and Kabir are learnt
orally and sung by millions of Indians to this day. In Haridasa Parampara people
travel to Trrupati . During the entire pilgrimage they would be singing the compositions
of dasas and acharyas in oral tradition. In Tamil country singing in oral tradition
the 4000 hymns of Divyaprabandha composed by 12 alvars is a household
activity.

Folk Traditions The folk form of drama in India is very rich. They rely on the oral
tradition of the languages known to the people of the particular region. The
Kannada language has the Yakshagana theatre, the Gujarati language has the
Bhavai theatre and the Marathi languages have the Tamasha theatre. Terakuttu in
Tamilnadu, Bhagavatamela in Andhra Pradesh and Jatha and Ramlila in northern
parts of the country.

7
Popular Culture
1.5 SELF ASSESSMENT QUESTIONS
Self Assessment Questions 1
Complete the following with right answers:

a) eye-witness evidence b) oral lore. c) living tradition. d) be transmitted to e)

others written information.

I. Oral tradition is also called as oral culture and ----- -----

2. It often takes the form of----- -------- about past events

3. They are distinct in some way with -------

4. It was very much essential to ------ --------

5. So the oral tradition is --------- ----

Self Assessment Questions 1

Match the Following:
l. UNESCO a) Alvars

2. PPandharpur b) Music

3. Gurushishya parampara c) Vedic chants

4. Yakshagana d) Bhajan

5. Divyaprabandha e) Kannada

1.6 TERMINAL QUESTIONS

]. What is oral tradition?

2. Write .about the UNESCO recognition of Intangible heritage.

3. Write a note on A) bhajan tradition and B)music and dance tradition in India.

1.7 ANSWERS
Self Assessment Questions 1
1 - b), 2 - a), 3 - e), 4 - d) 5 - c)

Self Assessment Questions 2

I - c), 2 - d), 3 - b), 4 - e), 5 - a)

Terminal Questions
1. Oral Tradition can be defined as the recording, preservation and interpretation
of historical information, or narration of events based on the personal
experiences or it has been "a oral singing or chant or narration of the story
pertaining to particular community. Even the chants offered in rituals also
belong to the category of oral tradition. The oral tradition remains a unique
testament to the capacity of the human brain to absorb, remember and
reproduce structures of great complexity and sophistication without a system
8
of written notation.
2. ul',;'ES 0, the international body is taking lot of interest in the oral naditious, Oral Traditions
which is covered under Intangible Cultural Heritage. According to UNESCO
Cultural heritage is not limited to material manifestations, such as monuments
and objects that have been preserved over time. This notion also encompasses
living expressions a/id the traditions that countless groups and communities
worldwide have inherited from their ancestors and transmit to their descendants,
in most cases are unnoticed.

Many years of research undertaken by UNESCO on the functions and values

of cultural expressions and practices have opened the door to new approaches
to the understanding, protection and respect of the cultural heritage of humanity.
This living heritage, known as intangible, provides each bearer of such
expressions a sense of identity and continuity, insofar as he or she takes
ownership of them and constantly recreates them.

As a driving force of cultural diversity, living heritage is very fragile. In recent

years, it has received international recognition and its safeguarding has become
one or the priorities or international cooperation thanks to UNESCO's leading
role in the adoption or the Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible
Cultural Heritage.

3. A) Bhajan Tradition: In Maharashtra, millions from all walks of life go on a

pilgrimage twice every year to Pandharpur a temple-town. As they travel,
they sing the poems composed by Dnyaneshwarea (13th Century), Eknath
(15th Cemury) and Tukaram (17th Century). The entire body of songs
consists of hundreds of the medieval poems learnt orally. Similarly, the
poems of Mira, Nanak and Kabir are learnt orally and sung by millions
of Indians to this day. In Haridasa Parampara people travel to Tirupati
. During the entire pilgrimage they would be singing the compositions of
dasas and acharyas in oral tradition. In Tamil country singing in oral
tradition the 4000 hymns of Divyaprabandha composed by 12 alvars
is a household activity.

B) The teaching of classical music and dance: The teaching of classical

music and dance has been primarily oral. The raga and its structure, the
intricate nuances of tala or rhythm, and the rendering of raga and tala as
bandisli or composition, are passed on from guru to shishya by word of
mouth and through direct demonstration. There is no printed sheet of
music, with notation acting as the medium, to impart knowledge. Similarly
in Indian classical dance also the steps, movements, abhinaya, the use of
hand gestures and dancing for compositions are all depends on the ability
of a teacher to teach the disciple. They are not found in written form. It
is directly taught by the guru in oral form to a snishya.

9
 UNIT 2 FESTIVALS
Structure
2.1 Festivals in India

2.2 Some Major festivals

2.3 Self Assessment Questions

2.4 Terminal Questions

2.5 Answers

2.1 FESTIVALSININDIA
Every great religion has several important aspects that characterize it. These are:
the doctrinal, the theological, the ethical and the communal aspects. The communal
aspects relate to the feasts and festivals that people celebrate in the course of a
year. India does not just observe few festivals pertaining to only one or two
religions. As we have studied earlier we follow many religions hence each religion
has introduced festivals associated with the events of the respective faith. Thus we
have Hindu, Buddhist, Jaina, Sikh, Muslim and Christian festivals. All celebrated
with equal interest and communal harmony.

A festival is celebrated to bring joy and good cheer in the community. However,
fhe reason and purpose of.celebration may be to commemorate a very great event
or a saintly person. This serves to remember the heroes or great episodes that
once played a very important role in the tradition of the community. Festivals also
remind us of the ways in which our ancestors celebrated their happy days. In
celebrating the festival we not only re-live a bit of the earlier joy but also
acknowledge the importance of them. Thus a festival is important as it re-creates a
part of the past history and tradition of a community. In addition, a festival is to be
celebrated on a specific date that is assigned to it in the calendar. This is
determined by tradition which uses astronomical configurations in the Hindu tradition.
No land celebrates life like India. With festivals like Holi, and fairs like Pushkar.
(People drench themselves in the days and moments that glorify harvests, seasons,
triumphs, joys, sorrows, battles, Gods, and kings). This is the land with 365 days
of sound and 360 degrees of colour.

2.2 SOMEMAJORFESTIVALS
Hindus from most ancient times have developed many colourful festivals. Every
festival has at least one story associated with it from the rich Puranic literature.
Some of the important festivals are:

Makara Sankranti: Makara Sankranti is celebrated on the day when the sun is
directly above the tropic of Capricon. In the classical Hindu solar calendar the first
day of the year is when the sun is in Aries. The solar year is divided into two long
periods of six months each. One begins with the winter solstice. This day is
celebrated as the Makara Sankranti. This occurs in the month of January.

On this occasion the meeting (sangam) of Ganga, Jamuna and the underground
Saraswathi rivers is visited by thousands of people. It is believed that a dip in the
river at this time has great religious merit. This is also supposed to cleanse one of
10
all the sins. Festivals

In Maharastra and Kamataka it is celebrated by the distribution of 'Til'sweets

(sesame seeds) along with sugarcane and jaggery . Friends and relatives exchange
the items with a vow to renew friendship and speak pleasantly to one another.

In Tamil Nadu this festival is celebrated as 'Pongal', means boiling. Rice is boiled
in sweetened milk preferably in a new pot. The length of time it takes to boil is an
index of the fortune in the coming year. The shorter the time the more the
prosperity. Earlier cattle were decorated and so were homes with 'rangoli'
patterns made from rice flour.

Holi: Holi is a very colourful festival. It is celebrated practically all over India in
the month of Phalgun. It is actually related to the spring equinox. The celebration of
Holi varies from region to region. It has also changed over the years in the way it
is celebrated. Today, in some parts of the country it is impossible to step outside.
This is because people play by throwing coloured water or powder on each other.
There is a general atmosphere of revelry and gaiety. Sometimes even paints are
used.

This celebration of fun is said to be an echo of the jolly deeds of Lord Krishna in
his boyhood days. Others believe that it.is the day when Krishna destroyed an evil
giantess. The giantess is said to have begged Krishna to see that she is remembered
at the close of the season. According to another story the shouts and screams are
said to echo those of Rati the wife of Kama who was burnt by Shiva's third eye.
This symbolizes Shiva's victory over desire. In fact, in some areas a pile of wood
symbolic of Kama is burnt.

Maha Shiva Ratrl: The festival of Shiva Ratri (Shiva's Night) falls on the new
moon day of the month of Phalgun. It is observed by the devotees of Shiva by
fasting for twenty four hours. People keep awake during the night by offering
periodic prayers to Shiva. The fast is broken with a delicious feast. In earlier times
there used to be ritual bath in milk and honey during the night. However, today
devotees spend the night listening to music, singing devotional songs, playing family
games. On Shiva Ratri night long worship and fasting is undertaken. The devotees
make it a point to go Shiva temple and offer milk.

Krishna Janmashtami: This festival is to celebrate the advent of Lord Krishna in

the world: The name actually means the birth of the eighth day. It is observed on
the eighth day after the new moon of the month of Shravan. Krishna is also the
eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu. According to the Puranic tale, the evil King Kamsa
had been warned by astrologers that his nephew would one day destroy him. The
nephew was to be born to his sister Devaki. Therefore Kamsa kept Devaki and
her husband Vasudev in prison and killed six of the babies born to them one after
another. The seventh flew away to heaven warning Kamsa of his inevitable death.
The eighth child was miraculously transported to Gokul to be brought up by foster
parents. By divine power child grew up to take on his uncle, Kamsa and rid the
earth of an evil king.

The entire day is spent in fast and prayer. At midnight the images of Lord Krishna
are worshipped and the fast is broken with many sweet and goodies. It is a great
occasion for joy and fun. In some part of the country , Dahi-Handi' is organized in
public squares. In this an earthen pot with curds is tied ac ~ great height. Young
men form human pyramids over which one person climbs to reach the handi and
break it. There is great singing, chanting and encouragement from the great crowds 11
Popular Culture that gather to witness it. Krishna Janmashtami in a sense celebrates the birth of a
baby which is always a miracle. If that child is meant to spread so much good and
knowledge to the community then it surely calls for a grand celebration.

Ganesh Chaturthi

This is celebrated on the fourth day after the full moon day in the month of
Bhadrapada. This is observed in the honour of Lord Ganesh. Since this god is
known as Vinayaka i.e. remover of obstacles, the festival is also known as Vinayak
Chaturthi. In Tamil Nadu it is called Pillayar Chaturti.

In this festival, clay images of Ganesha are made by the thousands in different
poses and decorations. The image is kept for a specific number of days in homes
and is worshipped until it is again ceremoniously taken in a procession to a water
body and is submerged. The festival also is known for specific sweets and
preparation which are enjoyed friends and relatives gathering together.

rlu'ring the freedom struggle Lokamanya Tilak converted the festival so that the
community at large could take part. This was to bring a close knit feeling in the
community to oppose the British. This lead to th.: formation of 'Sarvajanik Ganesh
Mandals' i.e. groups to celebrate the festival for everyone. Usually a public place
is decorated with great enthusiasm and an image is installed. Large crowds gather
to witness the decorations and take 'darshan' of L1.c god .Many competitions and
programmes are held on each day of this festival. There is a long procession on
the 11th day when all the sarvajanik Ganeshas are taken ceremoniously for immersion
in a large water body. People in thousands gather to witness this occasion not only
wishing goodbye to the god but also requesting him to come back soon.

Dasahara: Vijaya Dasami: This festival is celebrated throughout the country. In

Bengal it corresponds to the Durga Puja. Dasahara means tenth day and Vijaya
Dasami means the tenth day of victory. The Dasahara festival comes at the end of
the monsoon months and is the opening of the whole season of colourful festivities.

In most of India it marks the victory of Goddess Durga over evil forces. There are
many version of this day. It is also believed that it commemorates victory of Rama
over the evil king Ravana.

In many towns and villages of India the scenes from the Ramayan in the form of
'Ram Lila' are enacted. People relive the moments of the epic with religious fervor
and faith. Usually an effigy of Ravana is burnt to symbolize the victory of good
over evil.

Divali: Divali is also known as 'Deepavali', the festival of lights. The name means
a row of lights. It is celebrated on the thirteenth day of the dark fortnight of the
month of Asvin(October-November).

Divali is well known for 'Lakshmi Puja', the worship of Lakshmi, the goddess of
wealth and prosperity. Therefore it is of importance to the business community.
On this day they close the financial year and hegin a new. Usually a fresh cleaning
is done of all shops and establishments. The home is decorated with garlands and
mango leaves. In the night light 'diyas' are lit .md the home is decorated. Light is
a major symbol in Divali. It is taken for all things positive and is symbolic of life,
joy, truth, justice knowledge and wisdom. Thus with the outer light the inner light
too is to be lit.

12
Another view is that Divali celebrates the victory of arrogant tyrant Bali at the Festivals

hands of Lord Vishnu when he appeared in his Vamana ( dwarf) avatara.

Sometimes Divali is also taken as the return of Rama back to his kingdom or the
destruction Kamsa by Lord Krishna. In Bengal it becomes the celebration of Kali.

In south India people wake up at predawn, massage oil and take a fresh bath.
They wear new clothes and bUL t crackers heralding joy and celebration. Many
types of sweets are pr-pa-e ~ and enjoyed.

Raksha Bandhan:"Rakhi", as it is popularly called, is celebrated in the month of

Shravan (August) on the' day of the full moon. Literally meaning "ties of protection",
it commemorates the bond between brothers and sisters. On the morning of the
festival, women of all ages put a tikka of vermilion on their brother's foreheads, tie
a ceremonial rakhi (this may be a colorful thread, a simple bracelet, a decorative
string or something really fancy, made of silver and crystals) on their brothers'
wrisus), and offer them mithai (sweets) after an aarti (prayer). The brothers, in
return, promise to love and protect their sisters, and gift them some money as a
token of their affection. The practice often extends more generally to people of the
opposite sex who are not biologically related. It has also been interpreted as a
pledge by the strong to protect the weak.

Bihu: Actually a collection of 3 festivals. Bihu marks distinctive stages in the

cultivation of paddy, the principal crop 0 . the state of Assam. Bohag Bihu is also
called Rongaali Bihu, the Festival of Merriment. True to its name, it ushers in a
period of enjoyment. The festival lasts for several days. The first day, Goru Bihu, is
reserved for cattle - cows' feet are vashed, their horns and hooves are rubbed
with oil, and they are garlanded. The next day, Manuh Bihu, sees homage paid to
elders, relatives and friends, with a special meal of chira, curds and sweets. The
third day, Gosain Bihu, is dedicated to religious services. Games, sports. special
Bihu songs, dances, " Bihu Kunwori" contests (dancing competitions) and fairs are
all part of Bihu celebrations

Baisakhi: A rural festival celebrated in Punjab on 13th April, Baisakhi signifies the
beginning of a New Year for the Punjabi community. It was on this day in 1699
that the tenth Sikh Guru. Guru Gobind Singh, founded the Khalsa Panth. Prayer
meetings and kirtans (singing of devotional songs) are organized in gurdwaras (Sikh
temples) across the country. After the prayer, karah prasad is served to the
congregation. The function ends with langar, the community lunch made and
served by volunteers. In the rural areas. Baisakhi signifies the harvest of the (main)
wheat crop. Farmers give thanks for Mother Nature's bounty Pumima and pray
for a better crop next year.

Buddha Purnima: Buddha Pumima falls on the full moon night in the month of
Vaisakha (either in April or May), commemorates the birth anniversary of Lord
Buddha. Notwithstanding the summer heat (temperatures routinely touch 45
degrees C), pilgrims come from all over the world to Bodh Gaya, the place where
Buddha attained enlightenment. The day is marked with prayer meets, sermons on
the life of Buddha, religious di 'ourses, recitation of Buddhist scriptures, group
meditation, processions, worship of Buddha's statue and symposia. The Mahabodhi
Temple wears a festive look and is decorated with colourful flags and flowers.
Celebration of this festival has been recorded by the Chinese scholar, Fa-Hien.

Christmas: Christmas, the birth anniversary of Jesus Christ, is celebrated by

Indian Christians on December 25th, in much the same way as it is celebrated by 13
Popular Culture Christians worldwide. The day is ushered in with midnight mass, sounds of carols
fill the air, Christmas trees are brought home and decorated, and gifts arc exchanged
with friends and family. All the major Indian cities wear a festive look. Shops and
bazaars are decorated for the occasion and offer attractive bargains. Christmas
sets off a week of festivities, culminating with New Year celebrations on 1st Jan

Easter: The Sunday marking the resurrection of Christ is celebrated by Christians

all across India. It is preceded by Lent, a 40-day period of fasting and prayer
from February to March that begins with Ash Wednesday and culminates in Good
Friday, the day of mourning when Jesus Christ was crucified. Easter eggs and hot
cross buns are some of the goodies distributed on Easter.

There are a number of Muslim festivals like Muharram, Bakri Id, Ramzan, Id-E-
Milad Shab-E-Barat and others. A well-known peculiarity of Muslim festivals is
this that they do not correspond to any particular date or month of the Gregorian
calendar, as they are based on the Hijra which follows pure lunar reckoning. As
such these Muslim festivals do not have months corresponding to seasons.

Muharram: The first Muslim month is Muharram and Muharram is observed on

the tenth day of this month. Muharram is a day of mourning as it commemorates
the greatest tragedy in the history of Islam-the martyrdom of the Prophet's grandson
Hussein. Long processions with their Taziahs which are the gorgeous replicas of
the martyr's tomb, the masked dancers and the colorful crowds, give Muharram
the appearance of a gay festival but in reality it is an expression of grief and
distress.

Bakri-Id: This is one the celebration of which is enjoined in Koran and it

commemorates Abraham's sacrifice of his beloved son in obedience to God's
command. Abraham having implicit faith in God decided to offer the sacrifice.
Abraham blindfolded himself and killed his son but when he removed the bandage
from his eyes, found his son standing before him with a slain ram at the altar.
Therefore, for Bakri-Id every Muslim family is required to sacrifice a healthy
animal and distribute two-thirds of the meat among the poor. A full grown camel,
cow, goat or sheep free from disease is considered the best offering with a short
prayer which is an absolute surrendering of the soul and acknowledging the
greatness of Allah.

Eid-Milad-ul-Nabi: The birth anniversary of Prophet Mohammad is celebrated all

over India with the reading of the Quran and religious discourses in the mosques.
The prophet was born on the twelfth day of the third month of the Muslim year
and his death anniversary also falls on the same date. During the twelve days of
sickness of the Prophet which ended in his death, sermons are delivered in
mosques by learned men. Also a ceremony known as the "Sandal Rite" is
performed over the symbolic foot-prints of the Prophet in stone, kept in some
households or mosques. A replica of Burag, the horse on which the Prophet is
believed to have ascended to heaven is kept near the foot-prints and is anointed
with Sandal Paste. And the casket of foot-prints are decorated and illuminated.
The twelfth day, which is the Urs proper, is observed quietly and spent in prayers
and alms-giving.

Shab-E-Barat; This feast is held either on the thirteenth or on the fourteenth day
of the eighth month of the Muslim year. It is a nocturnal observance as the fortunes
of all mortals for the coming year are to be registered in heaven during the night.

14
Fatiha, which means blessings are recited over the food and the sweet dishes in the Festivals
name of the Prophet, his daughter Fatima and her husband Ali.

Ramzan Itcomes at the end of the Muslim month of Ramzan during which every
devout Muslim fasts by day and eats only at night. It is celebrated on the day
following the appearance of the New Moon at the end of Ramzan and in the
evening anxious crowds are seen watching the fading light of the western sky for a
trace of the moon. The Ramzan ~st, observed during the whole month begins daily
from the time the first streak of daylight is observed on the horizon till nightfall
when the stars become clearly visible. During the day even drinking water is
prohibited but food is permitted to be eaten at night and the day is spent in reading
the Koran. Community prayer, generally held in an open space is the most
important part in Ramzan Id celebrations. Every Muslim is commanded by Koran
to offer Id prayer with his brethren in full faith. As the congregation becomes
unwieldy to be accommodated in a mosque spacious grounds are selected for
Community Prayers. It is required that every Muslim gives alms to the poor and
dressed in clean clothes to attend the public prayer.

So it is a prevalent custom in certain parts of India for the living wife of a Muslim
to offer new clothes and finery to a former dead wife in a small ceremony which is
known by the name -"Saukan Maura" - which literally means first wife's crown.
Greeting cards printed with "Id Mubarak" which is also the greetings for this Id
festival are sent to friends and relatives also when friends meet they greet each
other saying "Id Mubarak". (Reference and courtesy: Mohammad Munaif)

Other than these festivals certain seasonal festivals, national festivals like Independence
day and Republic day, cultural festivals such as Elephanta festival, Khajuraho
festival, Hampi Festival, Qutaub Festival and Taj festival. Some are associated with
fairs such as Jagannatha Rathyatra, Pushkar festival, Goa carnival etc. All such
festivals bring people together and they enjoy irrespective of their differences.

2.3 SELF ASSESSMENT QUESTIONS

Self Asessment Question 1

Complete the following with right answers:

a) date that is assigned to it in the calendar. b) bring joy and good cheer in c)
fasting is undertaken. d) "ties of protection", e) 'Pongal', means boiling.

I. A festival is celebrated to ------ ------ -----the

community.

2. A festival is to be celebrated on a specific.------- -----

3. In Tamil Nadu Sankranti festival is celebrated as ----- -----

4. On Shiva Ratri night long worship and ----- -----

5. Rakhi literally means ------ ------ it commemorates the

bond between brothers and sisters.

15
Popular Culture Self Asessment Questions 2
State whether true or False:

1. The Mahabodhi Temple wears a deserted look and IS decorated with

colourful flags and flowers.

2. Shops and bazaars are closed for the occasion of Christmas and offer
attractive bargains.

3. Easter is preceded by Lent, a -m-day period of fasting and prayer from

February to March

4. For Bakri-Id every Muslim family is required to sacrifice an unhealthy animal

and distribute

5. The Ramzan fast, observed during the whole month begins daily from the time
the tirst night breaks.

284 TERMINAL QUESTIONS

1. What do you mean festival?

2. Give the list of major festivals followed in India.

3. Write a note on A) Divali B)Raksha Bandan 3) Easter 4) Id-Milad.

2.5 ANSWERS
Self Asessment Questions 1
..
1 -'b), 2 - a), 3 - e), 4 - c), 5 - d)

Self Asessment Questions 2

1 - F, 2 - F, 3 - T, 4 - F, 5 - F

Terminal Questions

1. A festival is celebrated to bring joy and good cheer in the community.

However, the reason and purpose of celebration may be to commemorate a
very great event or a saintly person. This serves to remember the heroes or
great episodes that once played a very important role in the tradition of the
community. Festivals also remind us of the ways in which our ancestors
celebrated their happy days. In celebrating the festival we not only re-live a
bit of the earlier joy but also acknowledge the importance of them. Thus a
festival is important as it re-creates a part of the past history and tradition of
a community. In addition, a festival is to be celebrated on a specific date that
is assigned to it in the calendar. This is determined by tradition which uses
astronomical configurations in the Hindu tradition. No land celebrates life like
India. With festivals like Holi, and fairs like Pushkar. (People drench themselves
in the days and moments that glorify harvests, seasons, triumphs, joys, sorrows,
battles, Gods, and kings). This is the land with 365 days of sound and 360
degrees of colour.

2. the major festivals are Ganesha Chaturthi, Makara sankranti, Shiva ratri,
Darchara, Diwali, Rakhsa Bandhan, Bihu, Baisakhi, Krishna Janmashtami,
Holi, Buddha Pumima, Christmas, Easter, Id-Milad, Bakri-Id, Ramzan.
16
3. Note on Diwali: Festivals

Divali: Divali is also known as 'Deepavali', the festival of lights. The name means
a row of lights . It is celebrated on the thirteenth day of the dark fortnight of the
month of Asvin(October-November). Divali is well known for 'Lakshmi Puja',
the worship of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Therefore it is of
importance to the business community. On this day they close the financial year
and begin a new. Usually a fresh cleaning is done of all shops and establishments.
The home is decorated with garlands and mango leaves. In the night light 'diyas'
are lit and the home is decorated. Light is a major symbol in Divali. It is taken for
all things positive and is symbolic of life, joy, truth, justice knowledge and wisdom.
Thus with the outer light the inner light too is to be lit. Another view is that Divali
celebrates the victory of arrogant tyrant Bali at the hands of Lord Vishnu when he
appeared in his Vamana (dwarf) avatara. Sometimes Divali is also taken as the
return of Rama back to his kingdom or the destruction Kamsa by Lord Krishna. In
Bengal it becomes the celebration of Kali.

In south India people wake up at predawn, massage oil and take a fresh bath.
They wear new clothes and burst crackers heralding joy and celebration. Many
types of sweets are prepared and enjoyed.

Raksha Bandhan:"Rakhi", as it is popularly called, is celebrated in the month of

Shravan (August) on the day of the full moon. Literally meaning "ties of protection",
it commemorates the bond between brothers and sisters. On the morning of the
festival, women of all ages put a tikka of vermilion on their brother's foreheads, tie
a ceremonial rakhi (this may be a colorful thread, a simple bracelet, a decorative
string or something really fancy, made of silver and crystals) on their brothers'
wrist(s), and offer them mithai (sweets) after an aarti (prayer). The brothers, in
return, promise to love and protect their sisters, and gift them some money as a
token of their affection. The practice often extends more generally to people of the
opposite sex who are not biologically related. It has also been interpreted as a
pledge by the strong to protect the weak.

Easter: The Sunday marking the resurrection of Christ is celebrated by Christians

all across India. It is preceded by Lent, a 40-day period of fasting and prayer
from February to March that begins with Ash Wednesday and culminates in Good
Friday, the day of mourning when Jesus Christ was crucified. Easter eggs and hot
cross buns are some of the goodies distributed on Easter.

Eid-Milad-ul-Nabi: The prophet was born on the twelfth day of the third month
of the Muslim year and his death anniversary also falls on the same date. During
the twelve days of sickness of the Prophet which ended in his death, sermons are
delivered in mosques by learned men. Also a ceremony known as the "Sandal
Rite" is performed over the symbolic foot-prints of the Prophet in stone, kept in
some households or mosques. A replica of Burag, the horse on which the Prophet
is believed to have ascended to heaven is kept near the foot-prints and is anointed
with Sandal Paste. And the casket of foot-prints are decorated and illuminated.
The twelfth day, which is the Urs proper, is observed quietly and spent in prayers
and alms-giving.

17
 UNIT 3 PILGRIMAGE CENTRES
Structure

3.1 Pilgrimage

3.2 Some Major Pilgrimage Centres.

3.3 . Self Assessed Questions

3.4 Terminal Questions

3.5 Answers

3.1 PILGRIMAGE
Pilgrimage to sacred places forms an important item of the spiritual discipline of the
people of almost all religions in the world. Certain places are considered holy due
to some mythological, puranic or religious belief attached to it. Thus, the devoted
Buddhist goes to Bodh-Gaya, the Christian to Jerusalem, the Hindu to Varanasi
and Rameshvaram, a Jaina to Palithana and Shravanabelagola, a Sikh to Amrutsar,
Muslims to Mekka, Madina etc. These places deepen his feeling for spirituality and
redirect him to understand God.

1. In some religions pilgrimage has been followed as ritual tradition too. The
follower of the faith has to make it a point to visit the respective pilgrimage
centre at least once in life time. Many people take the journey as many times
as possible.

2. A visit to holy places gives a fresh stimulus especially as it brings them into
contact with many devout minds and helps to awaken a sympathetic response
to them.

3. Some pilgrimage centres have developed as seats of learning, like Varanasi,

Kanchipuram etc.

4. It provides economic opportunities to develop all facilities for the people who
visit the holy places. Commercial activities grown in such places.

5. Architecture, sculpture and painting received ample encouragement from

pilgrimage. Many artisans make their living as artisans also.

6. One of the greatest services the institution of pilgrimage has rendered to India
as a whole is bringing unity among people.

3.2 PILGRIMAGE
The Hindus have a large number of holy places from the Himalayas in the north to
Kanya kumari in the south. Of all the places the Himalayan region has been
considered most suitable for spiritual practices through the ages. There is a temple
in Badrinath, another at Kedarnath, a cave at Amarnath. Inspired by the Himalayas,
the abode of Shiva, many people from time immemorial have been going to the
caves and forest-retreats to solve the mystery of life. Another important place is
the river Ganga. Countless saints and sages have meditated and on the river's
shores. Therefore it is considered very holy in the eyes of the Hindus. There are
innumerable places of pilgrimage on her banks.
18
In ancient India the 'ashramas' of great rishis was visited by people. They could Pilgrimage Centres

seek the guidance of the learned sage who lived in it. With the passage of time
these also became pilgrimage places. Similarly the places associated with Rama
and Krishna is also considered holy.

Great temples were built by the kings of many dynasties. Every place where a big
sanctuary was built and worship was performed with wonderful ceremonies began
to attract crowds of people. This became a place of pilgrimage to later generations.

Even in the Vedic age there was a conscious attempt to keep the people united
through the bond of common culture. There are songs that celebrated the great
rives and mountain which are considered holy. The songs are sung in the name of
Ganga, Yamuna, Godavari, Sarasvati, Narmada, Sindhu and Kaveri, The
Mahabharata names seven mountains which are held sacred viz. Raivatka, Vindhya,
Sahya, Kumara, Malaya, Sri-parvata, and Pariyatra. Similarly there are seven
sacred places viz. Ayodhya, Mathura, Maya(Hardwar), Kasi( Banaras),
Kanchi,Avantika (Ujjain) and Dvaravati (Dwarka).These are believed to possess
the power to grant salvation to one who visits them. The other pilgrimage centres
for Sri Krishna worship being Brindavan, Mathura , Dwaraka, Nathadvara, and
Udupi. The pilgrimage centres for the worshippers of Mahavishnu are Badarinath,
Tirupati, Srirangam, Melukote, etc.

In addition, there are twelve 'jyotirlingas' and fifty-one Sakti-pithas located in

different parts of the country. A great service of uniting the Hindus in a common
religious and cultural consciousness was done by Sankaracharya. He established
four sacred mutts - Sringeri in the south, Badrinath in the north, Dwaraka in the
west and Puri in the east. Similarly four lakes viz. Bindu, Pampa, Narayana and
Manasa are considered sacred.

From time to time a great interest in pilgrimages was awakened by the life of great
saints and prophets. Thus Sankara, Ramanuja, Madhva, Caitanya and other spiritual
giants influenced people towards a religious attitude of life.

Kashi and Prayag: They are the holiest places for Hindus. Situated on the banks
of Ganga these places when visited wipes of sin and allows the minds of the
followers to seek the path for salvation.

Rameshwaram: One of the most sacred towns of India, is well known for its
temple corridor - the longest in India, the Bathing Ghat, Gandhamadhana Parvatham,
Kodhandaramar temple, Kurusadai and other nearby islands - abundant with coral
reefs and other marine wonders.

Rameswaram is hallowed by the epic Ramayana. A devout Hindu who visits

Varanasi is expected to visit the Rameswaram also for the culmination of his quest
for salvation. Rama sanctified this place by worshipping Lord Siva after the war
against Ravana. Therefore, it is held sacred by Saivites and Vaishnavites as well.

Puri One of the four celebrated religious centres of India, Puri, and the abode of
Lord Jagannath needs no introduction. According to tradition Puri was once a
thickly wooded hill inhabited by the Sabaras (Pre-Aryan and Pre-Dravidian tribes
of the Austric linguistic family). The Jagannath Rathyatra conducted once a year is
the world famous festival. During this festival the original Gods come out of the
Sanctum and they are placed on the chariots. The three chariots dedicated to
Balabhadra, (the elder brother of Sri Krshna), Subhadra, (the younger sister of
Balabhadra and Krishna) and Sri Krishna are drawn at a time. The chariots are
19
Popular Culture built every year afresh and decorated tastefully. The Chariot festival draws a crowd
of nearly 10 lakhs every year. Puri is also visited by the Advaitins. One of the four
mathas of Shankaracharya was established here.

Bodhgaya is one of the most important and sacred Buddhist pilgrimage centers of
the world. It was here under a banyan tree, the Bodhi Tree, Gautama attained
supreme knowledge to become Buddha, the Enlightened One. Significantly, the
state's name of 'Bihar' originated from 'Vihara' meaning monasteries which abounded
in Bihar. There is a magnificent Mahabodhi temple and the Tree from the original
sapling still stands in the temple premises. The temple is an architectural amalgamation
of many centuries, cultures and heritages. While its architecture is of the Gupta era,
it has later ages inscriptions describing visits of pilgrims from Sri Lanka, Myanmar
and China between 7th and 10th century AD. It is perhaps still the same temple
Hieuen Tsang visited in 7th century. We have other Buddhist pilgrimage centres
such as Sanchi, Samath, Lumbini, Kushinagar, Khatmandu, Dharmasala etc.

Jain Pilgrimage Centres: The Jain pilgrimage centres are concentrated mainly in
Rajasthan, Gujrat and Karnataka. The Jains consider a holy duty to attend the
mahamastakabhisheka, the ritual bath offered to colossal image of Bahubali at
Shravanabelagola once in 12 years. Other important places are Moodabidre,
Karkala in Kamataka. In Rajasthan the Dilwara Temple at Mt. Abu is considered
as jewel in stone. It is a holy place and also an outstanding architectural delight.
Another holy place for Jains is the large number of temples dedicated to all the 24
tirthankaras, situated at Ranakpur Rajasthan. The most outstanding Jaina centre
for the Jaina practices and rituals is Palithana in Rajasthan. A devout Jaina tries to
visit all these pilgrimage centres by walking the distance in bare foot.

Other Pilgrimage Centres: For Muslims Mecca and Madina are the holiest
places on the earth. The pilgrimage to these places is known as 'haj', The devout
Muslims would like to visit these places at least once in their life time. Hence in
India some of the Dargah are considered as holy places. When the annual fairs and
festivals are held in Dargah the Muslims attend and take part in holy deliberations.
To name a few Salim Chisti at Fathepur Sikri, Dargah of a holy man near
Srirangapattanam, Sherif Dargah at Gulburga, and such others.

Similarly the holy places for Chirstians are Bethlehem, Jerusalem and Vatican
church Rome. Since it is difficult to travel to these places the Christians treat their
churches built in cities and small towns as their pilgrimage centres. To name a few,
St. Aloysius Church Mangalore, St. Xavier Church in Goa, Velankani in Tamilnadu,
St. Philomena at Mysore, Mother Teresa church at Calcutta and such others.

The holy place for Sikhs is known as Gurudvara. Every important town where
the Sikh community in large numbers will have gurudvaras where they conduct
religious activities. Among them the most famous being the Golden Temple at
Amritsar.

3.3 SELF ASSESSMENT QUESTIONS

Self Assessment Questions 1
a) seats of learning, b) pilgrimage centre. c) fresh stimulus, d) bringing unity among
people. e) who visit the holy places.

Complete the following with right answers:

20 1. The follower of the faith has to make it a point to visit the respective:---
2. A visit to holy places gives a ------ Pilgrimage Centres

3. Some pilgrimage centres have developed as:----- ------

4. It provides economic opportunities to develop all felicities for the people

5. One of the greatest services the institution of pilgrimage has rendered to India
as a whole is ------- ----- ---

Self Assessment Question 2

State whether true or False:
1. There are two 'jyotirlingas' and fifty-nine Sakti-pithas located in different
parts of India.

2. There are no pilgrimage centres on the banks of Ganga.

3. A devout Hindu who visits Varanasi is expected to visit the Rameswaram also
for the culmination of his quest for salvation.

4. According to tradition Puri was once a thickly wooded hill inhabited by the
Bhillavas and Gounds.

5. The Jains consider a holy duty to attend the mahamastakabhisheka, the

ritual bath offered to colossal image of Bahubali at Shravanabelagola once in
12 years.

3.4 TERMINALQUESTIONS
1. What do you mean by pilgrimage?

2. Give the list of major pilgrimage centres in India.

3. Write a note on A) Rameshvaram B)Bodh Gaya 3) Jain Pilgrimage centres

4) Sikh pilgrimage

3.5 ANSWERS
Self Assessment Questions 1
1 - b), 2 - c), 3 - a), 4 - e) 5 - d)

Self Assessment Questions 2

1 - F, 2 - F, 3 - T, 4 - F, 5 - T
Terminal Questions
1. Pilgrimage to sacred places forms an important item of the spiritual discipline
of the people of almost all religions in the world. Certain places are considered
holy due to some mythological, puranic or religious belief attached to it. Thus,
the devoted Buddhist goes to Bodh-Gaya, the Christian to Jerusalem, the
Hindu to Varanasi and Rameshvaram, a Jaina to Palithana and
Shravanabelagola, a Sikh to Amrutsar, Muslims to Mekka, Madina etc.
These places deepen his feeling for spirituality and redirect him to understand
God.

21
Popular Culture 2. The major pilgrimage centres in India are: Bodh Gaya, Sanchi, Sarnath,
Amrutsar, Goa, Fatehpur Sikhri, Mangalore, Puri, Kashi, Prayag, Rameshvaram,
Sravanabelagola, Palithana, Mt. Abu, Badarinath etc.

3. a) Write note on: Rameshwaram: One of the most sacred towns of

India, it its well known for its temple corridor - the longest in India, the
Bathing Ghat, Gandhamadhana Parvatham, Kodhandaramar temple,
Kurusadai and other nearby islands - abundant with coral reefs and other
marine wonders.

Rameswaram is hallowed by the epic Ramayana. A devout Hindu who

visits Varanasi is expected to visit the Rameswaram also for the culmination
of his quest for salvation. Rama sanctified this place by worshipping Lord
Siva after the war against Ravana. Therefore, it is held sacred by Saivites
and Vaishnavites as well.

b) Bodhgaya is one of the most important and sacred Buddhist pilgrimage

centers of the world. It was here under a banyan tree, the Bodhi Tree;
Gautama attained supreme knowledge to become Buddha, the Enlightened
One. Significantly, the state's name of 'Bihar' originated from 'Vihara'
meaning monasteries which abounded in Bihar. There is a magnificent
Mahabodhi temple and the Tree from the original sapling still stands in
the temple premises. The temple is an architectural amalgamation of
many centuries, cultures and heritages. While its architecture is of the
Gupta era, it has later ages inscriptions describing visits of pilgrims from
Sri Lanka, Myanmar and China between 7th and 10th century AD. It is
perhaps still the same temple Hieuen Tsang visited in 7th century.

c) Jain Pilgrimage Centres: The lain pilgrimage centres are concentrated

mainly in Rajasthan, Gujrat and Karnataka. The Jains consider a holy
duty to attend the mahamastakabhisheka, the ritual bath offered to
colossal image of Bahubali at Shravanabelagola once in 12 years. Other
important places are Moodabidre, Karkala in Karnataka. In Gujrat the
Dilwara Temple at Mt. Abu is considered as jewel in stone. It is a holy
place and also an outstanding architectural delight. Another holy place for
Jains is the large number of temples dedicated to all the 24 tirthankaras,
situated at Ranakpur Rajasthan. The most outstanding Jaina centre for
the jaina practices and rituals is Palithana in Rajasthan. A devout Jaina
tries to visit all these pilgrimage centres by walking the distance in bare
foot.

d) The holy place for Sikhs is known as Gurudvara. Every important

town where the Sikh community in large numbers will have gurudvaras
where they conduct religious activities. Among them the most famous
being the Golden Temple at Arnritsar.

Conclusion: Through this paper we have understood the cultural heritage

of India in its true sense. We have learnt how India is the land of multiple
cultures, how the people live in religious harmony, in spite of several
invasions and the infusion of new cultures India allowed every culture to
flourish in time and space. Because of this nature, we have the plurality in
our thought and practice which is not in contrast but in cooperation.
Study of all these units made us to feel great about our land, our people
and our cultural heritage.
22
NOTES
NOTES
OVA-OOl
Indian Cultural Heritage
Block 1. Introduction to Indian Culture

Unit 1: Indian Culture and Cultural Traditions

Unit 2: Nature, Plurality, Unity in Diversity.
Unit 3: Society and Culture

Block 2. Popular Culture

Unit 1: Oral traditions

Unit 2: Festivals
Unit 3: Pilgrimage Centres

Block 3. Introduction to Indian Arts

Unit 1 Introduction to Arts

Unit 2 Principle of Arts
Unit.J Branches of Arts