Encyclopaedia of Festivals (2 Volumes)

India is a big country; its vastness has resulted in a variety of conditions viz., socio-religious, economic, political, linguistic, etc. and due to these varieties the country manifests rich cultural and religious heritage. It is under the umbrella of this kaleidoscopic heritage that there is  a festival for every reason and for every season in India. Undoubtedly, India is a land of myriad festivals, in rhythm with the cycle of the seasons. with sowings and harvesting, and around them have grown legends, often depicting the victory of good over evil. But, each festival - be it at national, state or local level - is unique in style and is characterised by colour, gaiety, enthusiasm, feasts, prayers, rituals, pageantry, fun and frolic. Owing to these pompous and colourful festivals, the Indian society reflects a glimpse of the vast heritage as well as contemporary dynamism of its culture through the ages. Foreign travellers, however, are struck by the scale and multiplicity of Indian festivals that have evolved in the Indian society. It is hoped that the present work The Festivals in Indian Society will be well received in the Indian sub-continent and elsewhere.