201 |Shri Darpan Modern Bridges Modern bridges are almost exclusively built with steel, concrete, stone and asphalt. Other materials include iron, timber, aluminum, rubber and other joint materials. There are six basic modern bridge forms: the beam, the truss, the arch, the cantilever, the cable-stayed, and the suspension. - Nidhish Gupta, VG Modern Bridges: Test Your Knowledge 1. Which bridge is known as Bay-Bridge? 2. What material is the Modern Bridge made of? 3. What is the most Modern Bridge? 4. What are modern beam bridges good for? 5. What are five basic parts of a bridge? 6. What is the main purpose of a bridge? 7. What is the strongest type of bridge? 8. How long does a modern bridge last? 9. What type of bridge is best for long distance? 10.What is the strongest bridge building material? - Paarth Mathur, VG Answers: 1. San Francisco Oakland bridge. 2. Structural steel, concrete, pre-stressed concrete, or post-tensioned concrete. reinforced 3. Henderson swales bridges. 4. To support multiple lanes of traffic, sidewalks, and railings. 5. Pile, cap, bent, girders, decking. 6. To allow people or cargo easy passage over an obstacle by providing a route that would otherwise be uneven or impossible. 7. Truss bridge. 8. The average lifespan of a bridge is between 50-70 years. 9. Suspension bridges. 10. Steel.
202 |Shri Darpan Types of Modern Bridges A bridge is a structure built to cross certain obstacles which are difficult or impossible to cross. There are many types of bridges like beam, arch, truss, suspension, cantilever and cable-stayed. Bridges are found all over the world. There are many in our country as well! Some modern bridges are: Viaduc de Millau in Southern France Sunshine Skyway Bridge in St. Petersburg Tolerance Bridge in Dubai Bridges are not only for crossing; they are also decorations or even tourist attraction! - Reyansh Sharma, VG Types of Modern Bridges Modern Bridges are designed to be strong and safe, and are typically built to withstand the effects of weather and other environmental factors. Here are a few types of modern bridges: Cable-stayed bridges: These bridges have a roadway supported by cables that are anchored to one or more towers. Pedestrian bridges: These bridges are specifically designed for pedestrians, and may also be used by cyclists and other non-motorized vehicles. Bridges for Animals: Animal bridges, also known as wildlife crossings or green bridges, are structures that are designed to allow animals to safely cross over roads, highways, or other barriers. Water Bridges: Water bridges, often referred to as navigable aqueducts, are structures that build connecting two water bodies and allow for boat traffic. Movable Bridge: Movable bridges, also known as draw bridges or swing bridges, are bridges that are designed to open and close to allow ships or boats to pass through. - S. Adithi Reddy, VG Types of Modern Bridges Arch bridge Tied arch bridge Suspension bridge Truss bridge Cantilever bridge Cable-stayed bridge Beam bridge
203 |Shri Darpan 1. Arch bridge – An arch bridge is a bridge with abutments at each end shaped as a curved arch.. A viaduct (a long bridge) may be made from a series of arches. 2. Tied arch bridge - A tied-arch bridge is an arch bridge in which the outward horizontal forces of the arch(es) caused by tension at the arch ends to a foundation are countered by equal tension of its own gravity plus any element of the total deck structure such great arch(es) support. The arch(es) have strengthened chord(s) that run to a strong part of the deck structure or to independent tie-rods below the arch ends. 3. Suspension bridge: A suspension bridge is a type of bridge in which the deck is hung below suspension cables on vertical suspenders. Simple suspension bridges, which lack vertical suspenders, have a long history in many mountainous parts of the world. 4. Truss bridge: A truss bridge is a bridge whose load-bearing superstructure is composed of a truss, a structure of connected elements, usually forming triangular units 5. Cantilever bridge: A cantilever bridge is a bridge built using structures that project horizontally into space, supported on only one end (called cantilever). 6. Cable-stayed bridge: A cable-stayed bridge has one or more towers, from which cables support the bridge deck. A distinctive feature are the cables or stays, which run directly from the tower to the deck, normally forming a fan-like pattern or a series of parallel lines 7. Beam bridge: Beam bridges are the simplest structural forms for bridge spans supported by an abutment or pier at each end. The simplest beam bridge could be a log, a wood plank, or a stone slab laid across a stream - Saanvi Rai, VG All About the Pampan Bridge The Pampan bridge located in Tamil Nadu, in the district of Rameswaram. It was constructed on 24 Feb 1914. It started as a railway bridge that connected Mandapam in mainland India with Rameswaram on Pamban island. The bridge was a conventional bridge which means that it can raise itself in the middle part for ships to pass. This was known as Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge later. The Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge connects the National Highway (NH 49) with the Rameswaram island. It stands on the Palk Strait and between the shores of Mandapam (a place on the Indian mainland) and Pamban (one of the fishing towns on Rameswaram island). It was inaugurated by then Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on 2 October 1988. - Sahas Reddy Sanugomula, VG
204 |Shri Darpan Bridge I am made of strong base for people to walk on I am made of strong bricks and concrete so that I do not Break down The colours of mine are so Bright I am of many types of different shapes The river flows under me are so tight I am of the length and height about 6 to 7 meters People come on me to see the sunset and sunrise to I am the bridge which everyone likes I am also called the Magical Bridge from people who walk on me - Shravya Rathour, VG A Fun Quiz on Modern Bridges Quiz Time! 1. What are the main materials used to build a Bridge? 2. What are the main types of Modern Bridges? 3. What is the importance of a bridge? Answers 1. Steel and reinforced concrete 2. Main types of Modern Bridges are Beam Bridge, Truss Bridge, Suspension Bridge and Arch Bridge. 3. A bridge provides a quicker, easier way to travel from a place to another place. - Sri Avigna Reddy, VG Indian Modern Bridges Few modern bridges in India are Vidyasagar Setu in Kolkata, Bandra Worli Sea Link in Mumbai and Mahatma Gandhi setu in Bihar. India has different bridges not like Living root bridges. Living root bridges are simple bridges formed by living plant roots. Living roots bridges are mostly found in Meghalaya and around Meghalaya, like Shillong, Cherrapunji and Mawlynnlong. Modern bridges are made of concrete. Modern bridges have helped to change people. They provide access to the outside world and open so many routes for normal public. Present time India has so many bridges and there are so many bridges India is constructing. Bridges have been constructed in place where it seemed impossible, over rivers and high-altitude area and also mountains. - Sriansh Neralla, VG
205 |Shri Darpan A Crossword Puzzle on Environment 17 1 11 1 8 13 12 4 3 6 2 8 5 7 1 4 9 15 1 6 10 Across: 2. Ability to avoid wasting materials. 4. The practice of using less material and energy. 5. The surroundings or conditions in which a person, animal, or plant lives. 7. The action of building something. 9. A device that converts light from the sun. 10. The action of using something again. 14. The variety of plant and animal life in the world. 15. Gaseous fuel produced by the fermentation of organic matter. 16. The process or act of supplying a house or room continuously with fresh air. 17. Pits made to transfer organic material to each other. Down: 1. Conserve the environment by avoiding the depletion of natural resources. 3. An object that is less useful over time. 6. Not harmful to the environment. 8. The action of using up a resource. 11. All the materials available in our environment. 12. Convert (waste) into reusable material. 13. existing in limited quantity. 18. Green environment, growing plants, or vegetation.
206 |Shri Darpan Answer Key Sustainable 2. Efficiency 3. Degradation 4. Waste Reduction 5. Environment 6. Eco-friendly 7. Construction 8. Consumption 9. Solar Panels 10. Reuse 11. Resources 12. Recycle 13. Renewable 14. Biodiversity 15. Biogas 16. Ventilation 17. Compost Pits 18. Greenery - Anvi Dalal, VE A Glimpse into the Harvest Festivals of India Rice Harvest Festival Rice Harvest Festival is celebrated from May1 to Jan 30. The Rice Harvest Festival is held in Bali, Indonesia. Ceremonies are held to eliminate evil spirits from the land. The harvest festival is dedicated to a goddess and is a time of merrymaking. Effigies of the goddess are placed in the fields, towns are decorated with colored flags, and special bull races are held. - Aarish, IVA Vaisakhi Vaisakhi is a harvest celebrated in northern India. It encourages justice and equality and the formation of a more equal and just society. Members pledge to wearing the five articles of faith and practice daily meditation. Vaisakhi also pronounced Baisakhi. It is seen as a celebration of spring harvest primarily in Northern India. Further, other Indian cultures and spread population celebrate this festival too. While it is culturally significant as a festival of harvest, in many parts of India, Vaisakhi is also the date for the Indian Solar New Year. - Atiksh, IVA Nuakhai: Harvest Festival of India Nuakhai is an Annual Harvest Festival of Odisha. It is celebrated to welcome the oncoming new season and welcome the season’s new rice. It is celebrated in the month of August and September. It is made of two words – “Nua” means new and “Khai” means food, so the name means that farmers are in ownership of the newly reaped rice. The new crop ‘Nabanna’ is offered to Goddess of Western Odisha, Maa Samaleswari. This festival is also known as Noakhai Parab and Nabanna. On this festival, people wear new and traditional clothes. - Devansh, IVA
207 |Shri Darpan Nuakhai Nuakhai is also called Nuakhai Parab, Nuakhai Bhetghat or Navakhai Parv. The word ‘nua’ means new and ‘khai’ means food, so, the name means the farmers are in ownership of the newly reaped rice. The festival is held on Bhadrapada Shukla Panchami which is the day after the Ganesh Chaturthi of every year. It is important for the people. The first crop of the field is offered to the village goddess and people seek blessings of elders. The festival is observed in Odisha, but it is particularly important in the life and culture of Western Odisha. - Harika, IVA అడుగ్గ వేస్నమ్మందు ఆల్లచన త్పప నిసరి త్మ డబుబ,పర్పతుల భేద్ం లేక్తండ్డ త్ాణ స్నన హతులుగా ఉంట్టరు ర్వ,వరుణ్. వరుణ్ త్ంత్డి ారిత్శామికవేత్ా,ద్నవంతుడు. ర్వ త్ంత్డి చనన ఉద్యయగసుాడు అయిన్న ఎంతోకషపి డి వరుణ్ వంట్ట ప్పలలుో చదివే బడిల్ల త్న కొడుక్తని చదివసుాంట్టడు. వరుణ్ కి ాళ్ళ న్ననన కొత్ా ఫోన్ కొనిస్తాడు దానిన వరుణ్ ర్వకి చూప్పస్తాడు.ర్వ ాలోన్ననన ను ఈ వషయం చెపప డంతో ర్వ చనన బుచుా కోకూడద్ని అపుప చేస ర్వకి కూడ్డ ఫోన్ కొనిస్తాడు. దానితో కోతికి కొబబ రికాయ దొరికినటుిరోజంతా దానితోనే ఆడుక్తంటూగడిపేస్తారు ఇద్రూద . బడిల్లమొద్ట్టరాయ ంక్త స్తధంచే ర్వ సగం పరీక్షలు త్పుప తాడు,దానితో ాఠశాల త్పధ్యనోాధ్యయ యులు ర్వని,ర్వత్ంత్డిని ప్పలిప్పంచ ర్వ ఇంట్లోఎక్తక వగా చదువుకోని కార్ణంగా ఇలా జరిగింద్ని వవరించ్చరు. ర్వ ాళ్ళ న్ననన కి ర్వతో ఫోన్ చూడడం మానిప ంచడ్డనికి ఆరునెలలు,చదువు దారిల్ల పడడ్డనికి మరో ఆరునెలల కాలం వృధ్య అయింది . ర్వత్ంత్డి ఫోన్ చననప్పలలో క్త ఇవా డం వలన కలిగే దుత్షప యోజన్నల గ్గరించ తెలుసుకోక్తండ్డ ఇవా డం వలన ఇద్ంతా జరిగింది. అందుకే మనం ఏ పని చేసన్న మ్మందుగా దాని గ్గరించ ఆల్లచంచ చేయాలి. - హారిక, IVA Gudi Padwa Gudi Padwa is celebrated with much zeal and enthusiasm in the state of Maharashtra. Gudi Padwa gets its name from two words - ‘gudi,’ which means a flag or emblem of Lord Brahma and ‘padwa’ means the first day of the phase of the moon. People decorate their homes with mango and neem leaves and prepare traditional food items like shrikhand and puran poli. It is also customary to eat tender leaves of Neem and Mishri. The festival is marked by the unfurling of a "Gudi" (a decorative flag) outside homes, which denotes victory and prosperity. - Hridhaan, IVA
208 |Shri Darpan Ladakh Harvest Festival The Ladakh Harvest Festival is celebrated every year between 1st and 15th September. The festival takes off in Leh with a procession of cultural troupes through Leh Market. People wear bright traditional clothes. A pile of stones casts a shadow, which is advised to decide different activities that are required to be done. An astrologer is also consulted. In order to pacify the elements, prayers are offered during Ladakh harvest festival. Quiz- • When is the Ladakh harvest festival celebrated? • What type of clothes do they wear? • What does the culture of Ladakh refer to? • When does the Ladakhi new year fall? • What does the Ladakh harvest festival symbolise? - Ishaan, IVA Pongal Pongal is a Hindu harvest festival celebrated by Tamils and Keralite in South India. It is one of the most central festivals in South India. This festival is celebrated usually on January 14 or 15 depending on the sun's orbit around earth that certain year. The festival also marks the end of winter season. In this festival, people wear new clothes, go to the temple to offer prayers to the Sun God, decorate their homes with rangoli and make special meals for their families and friends. They also exchange gifts and sweets with their loved ones. - Kabir, IVA Wangala Wangala Festival of Meghalaya is the most popular festival among the Garos of Meghalaya, India. Wangala Festival is a harvest festival held in the honour of Saljong, the Sun-god of fertility. The celebration of the Wangala Festival symbolises the end of a period of labor, which brings good harvest of the fields. It also indicates the beginning of the winter season. - Kartikeya, IVA Harvest Festival of Assam: Bihu Kati Bihu or Kongali Bihu The word Kongal reflects scarcity and yes the festival of Kati Bihu talks about scarcity. This Bihu falls on the days when the paddies in the field are not fully grown and there are no reserves in the granaries. This Bihu is observed during the month of (mid-October) also known as the month of Kati in the Assamese Calendar.
209 |Shri Darpan Magh Bihu or Bhogali Bihu Bhogali Bihu is known as the festival of the feast. This festival is observed in the month of mid-January (Magh-Assamese Month). The festivity marks the harvesting of new crops when the farmers get to enjoy the hard labour in the fields with surplus food. The motive is to thank God for the blessing of a surplus harvest. - Mithanya, IVA Ladakh Harvest Festival The Ladakh Festival is a major event organized in Leh by the Jammu & Kashmir Tourism department. It is held from 1st to 15th September every year, to uphold and preserve the rich heritage of Ladakh’s age-old culture. Numerous cultural groups and villages participate in this spectacular show of ceremonial costume, dance, song and skill. A polo tournament by the name of "Ladakh Festival Cup" is also hosted, and a Central Asian trade mart is held in Leh Bazaar. The monks perform the masked dance and the festival closes with a final parade passing through the streets of Ladakh. Archery along with ancient social and cultural ceremonies including art and handicrafts are the other highlights of the event. -Priyanshi, IVA Celebrating Nuakhai Nuakhai is a renowned festival in Western Odisha. It is celebrated every year to welcome the new rice crop. The agricultural festival Is celebrated in South Chhattisgarh and also in the region of Simdega. Nuakhai is celebrate after the day of Ganesh Chaturthi. Mainly, on the fifth day of the lunar fortnight in the month of Bhadrapada. The Nuakhai festival found its origin during the Vedic times. It finds its start when the sages stated the five important annual activities of an agrarian society in the Panchajanya. The first crops are harvested and offered to the mother goddess with great devotion to birds or animals. - Ranbeer, IVA Nuakhai is a famous harvest festival of western Odisha. ‘Nua’ means new and ‘khai’ means food the festival is celebrated to welcome new crop mainly rice by the farmers. Nuakhai is celebrated on Panchami tithi of Bhadrapada month, the day after Ganesh Chaturthi. The festival is celebrated mainly to welcome new crop yield grown by farmers and also greeting to mother earth for providing food. People clean their houses before festival, wear new clothes, offer prayers to God and Goddesses and eat delicious food items like Arisa Pitha (made of rice, coconut, sesame and jaggery), Kankada- kadali bhaja, Jau, Tomato Khatta etc. People sing folk songs and do folk dance together to celebrate the festival. Nuakhai Juhar is performed where exchange of greetings is done with elders, friends and relatives which symbolise love, unity and brotherhood - Reyansh, IVA
210 |Shri Darpan Gudi Padwa Gudi Padwa is a harvest festival in Maharashtra symbolising the beginning of an auspicious New Year. People make rangoli at the entrance of their homes and decorate them with flowers and a handmade doll. They meet friends and relatives, exchange wishes, and women cook sweets like Puran Poli, Shrikhand, and Sunth Paak. Local people make Gudi (bamboo doll) using mango and neem leaves and hang them at the entrance. It is celebrated on the first day of Chaitra month. A silk cloth is tied to the end of a long bamboo to make a Gudi. Gudi is created in the front of the door of the house to welcome the new year. The set up Gudi is considered a symbol of victory .Gudi Padwa is a harvest festival and marks the end of Rabi season. Gudi Padwa gives us the message to forget the past and face life with new happiness. These festivals are celebrated with extraordinary joy and happiness - Samisksh, IVA Nobanno Nobanno (Bengali: নবান্ন ) is a Bengali harvest celebration typically celebrated with food and dance and music in Bangladesh and in the Indian states of West Bengal, Tripura and Assam's Barak Valley. It is a festival of food. Many local foods are cooked. The word ‘Nobanno’ is made of nobo (new) and onno (rice) which translates into new rice. Utshob means festival, so the phrase together makes it New Rice Festival. The festival of Nobonno in the Bengali month of Agrohyon (November) is a vital event in West Bengal and Bangladesh. - Shriya, IVA Wangala - Echoes of Drum Wangala Festival of Meghalaya is a popular festival among the Garos of Meghalaya, India. Wangala Festival is a harvest festival held to honor Saljong, the Sun-god of fertility. The celebration of the Wangala Festival signifies the end of a period of hard work, which brings good yield of the fields. It also signifies the onset of winter. Also known as a 100 drums festival, it is generally celebrated for two days and sometimes continues for a week. The ceremony performed on the first day is known as "Ragula" and is performed inside the house of the chief. The second day is known as "Kakkat". People get dressed in their colorful costumes with feathered headgears and dance to the tune of music played on long oval-shaped drums. This is the occasion to relax and for days the hills and valleys echoes with the extraordinary beat of drums. Basically, the Wangala Festival is a way to preserve and uphold the cultural identity of Garos in Meghalaya. This is one way to show the principles and belief of the region. - Siya, IVA
211 |Shri Darpan Bhogali Bihu – Of Bliss and Cheerfulness Bihu, Pongal, Makara Sankranti, Lohri – the names and places differ, but the meaning is the same: to be thankful for a plentiful harvest. The first harvest of their new crop is a happy moment for farmers. It is a moment to celebrate the produce that has been cultivated. Every year in January, the entire state of Assam showcases enthusiasm and delight in celebrating Bhogali Bihu. The celebration starts one night before with Uruka—the community feast. On the day of Bihu, the mejis or pavilion made of clay and hay are burnt. Local women wear fabulous mukhlas and participate in group songs and dance. Also known as Magh Bihu, this is an exotic and most vibrant name on the list of harvest festivals of India. -Tanvi, IVA Nukhai It is a harvest festival in Western Odisha, India. People welcome the new rice season. This is a social festival of Western Odisha and other adjoining areas of Simdega of Jharkhand. It is celebrated after Ganesh Chaturthi. This festival is celebrated at a particular time of the day is called Jangan. When langan comes, the people remember their village god. -Vihaan, IVA La hora -Vihaan Reddy Kayathi, IVA
212 |Shri Darpan Aoling Aoling is a harvest festival celebrated by Konyak people in Nagaland. The Konyak tribe is the largest of the seventeen tribes living in Nagaland. It coincides with the beginning of Konak New Year. Aoling is a time to pray to divine spirits for a good harvest. It is also a time for the people to come together and enjoy traditional food and crafts. Special dishes are made on the occasion, and traditional crafts such as weaving, and woodcarving are displayed. - Yashas, IVA Chapchar Kut Chapchar Kut is a famous harvest festival in Mizoram. It is celebrated every year in the month of March. Different tribal communities compete in dance and music, dressed up in traditional attire and unique head gears. The beginning of spring season marks the sanction of forest land for cultivation. They cut the woods and make way to farmlands. They burn the leftover woods and saw the cereal crops to harvest during the monsoon. Men and women perform dances accompanied by beating of gongs, drums and cymbals. Strong warriors showcase their trophies and weapons through dance. Amongst the most popular dances is the Cheraw or the “bamboo dance”. - Yuven, IVA Baisakhi Baisakhi Festival is significant for the Hindus as on this day in 1875 Swami Dayanand Saraswati founded the Arya Samaj. Baisakhi marks the establishment of Khalsa Panth under the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, in 1699. Baisakhi is important for the Buddhists as they believe that Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism attained enlightenment of Nirvana on this day. - Aahil Iqbal, IVB
213 |Shri Darpan Halloween Celebration! - Aaditya Wadher, IVB Wangala Festival -Aahil J, IVB Wangala is a harvest festival celebrated in Meghalaya and Assam. This festival is also known as 'The Hundred Drums'. The Garo tribe celebrates this festival to give thanks to the Sun God. This festival is celebrated for two or three days or up for a week. People wear colorful clothes and feathered headgear on this occasion. During these days, people perform their traditional singing and dancing. This festival is celebrated during the month of November.
214 |Shri Darpan Nine Days of Bathukamma People rejoice the Harvest, thanking Maa Gauri. Women and children wear colorful and bright dresses. Flowers are arranged beautifully. The First Day marks Engili pula Bathukamma. Sesame and Rice flour are offered. Special dishes and sweets are made. On the Final Day, women make Bathukammas immerse in water. It is a joyous occasion for everyone in the community. - Abhitej Rama Venkata Pinakapani Rachuri, IVB The Wangla Festival Wangla which is also known as the 100 drums festival, is the occasion when the tribals offer sacrifices to delight their main deity- Saljong – the Sun God. During the festival, men and women get dressed in the best traditional apparel, showing bright colours and patterns. - Abhyuday Rai, IVB ¿Qué haces? - Akhil Venkata Tirunagari, IVB
215 |Shri Darpan Pongal: The Festival of Harvest India is a land of so many festivals. Pongal is one of the harvest festivals of South India, mainly Tamil Nadu. The word Pongal means “to boil” in Tamil. This usually occurs in mid-January of every year and marks the sun’s movement towards the North direction and enters the zodiac sign Capricorn. Festivals in India always have some importance and myths attached to them. The first day of Pongal is Bhogi celebrated to honour Lord Indra for the abundance of harvest. The second day is Surya pongal celebrated in devotion of Sun God. Special sweet Pongal is made with, milk, rice and jaggery. The third day is Mattu. Pongal is celebrated to thank the cattle for their work. The fourth day is Kannam which indicates the end of the festival. - Akhil Venkata Tirunagari, IVB Ladakh Harvest Festival Ladakh Harvest Festival is celebrated from 1st September till 15th September every year. People in Ladakh love and enjoy this festival. Special activities conducted during the festival include folk music, archery, masked dances, concerts and theatre. People dress up in bright and traditional clothes. There is a beautiful view of musical and dance performances. People from different villages come together to celebrate this festival. During the festival, people go in procession from one monastery to the other, dancing and celebrating. After the celebrations of 2 weeks, the final carnival is done at the Polo Ground in Leh. - Akshara Barathwaj, IVB
216 |Shri Darpan Pongal: The Harvest Festivals Pongal is a harvest festival. It is celebrated for four days. This festival is celebrated to honour sun, nature, and farm animals. People draw rangolis and make the savoury Pongal to enjoy it with friends and family. Onam is the biggest festival in Kerala. It is celebrated to honour the mythical king Mahabali. It is celebrated for ten days. There are boat races, pujas, dance performances. Bihu is celebrated in Assam. It is celebrated for Surya, the Sun God. There are feasts and music and children wear flower garlands. -Ameya Kamineni, IVB Ladakh Harvest Festival The Ladakh Harvest Festival is celebrated every year between 1st and 15th September. The festival starts in Leh with a procession of cultural groups through Leh Market. People wear bright traditional clothes and there is a range of musical and dance performances. Ladakh Harvest Festival, as the name suggests, is celebrated to mark the harvest season. The harvest season is a special time in Ladakh and is marked by vigorous celebrations. Masked dances, folk music, archery, concerts and theatre are some of the activities performed during the course of the festival. -Anvitha Sivanadri, IVB Wangala Festival Wangala, also called hundred drum festival, is celebrated by the Garo tribe in Northeast part of India. It is a post-harvest festival. They give thanks to Sun God for blessing the people with a rich harvest. It is celebrated in the month of September to December, with different villages setting different dates for the festival. - Aradhya Rao Naineni, IVB La hora - Arnav Pandey, IVB
217 |Shri Darpan The Magnificance of Indian Festivals Makar Sankranti Makar Sankranti is a Hindu festival celebrated on 14th of January. This occasion signals the changeover of the sun, changing the weather conditions in several Indian states. The sun is regarded to move from the southern hemisphere to the northern hemisphere. This festival is celebrated to honour the solar deity “Surya”. On this festival, women make tasty sweets, people go to temples, and schools and offices are closed for that day. Children buy and fly kites and try to cut. - Arnav Pandey, IVB Devuthan Ekadashi In Rajasthan, Sikar, the spiritual hub of many people, the birth anniversary of Khatu Shyam Baba is celebrated on Devuthan Ekadeshi. It is believed that on this day, all the devs (Gods) wake up from their long sleep. On this auspicious day, birthday of Khatu Shyam ji is also celebrated. The original name of Khatu Shyam ji is Barbarika. According to the Skanda Purana, Barbarika was the son of Ghatotkacha (Son of Bhima) and Princess Maurvi, daughter of Daitya Moora. - - Ashrita Sharma, IVB
218 |Shri Darpan It’s Riddle Time! 1. Riddle: It belongs to you, but your friends use it more often. What is it? Answer: Your name. 2. Riddle: Sean’s mother has three children: Snap, Crackle, and _____? Answer: Sean. 3. Riddle: What has legs, but doesn’t walk? Answer: A table. 4. Riddle: What can you hear, but not see or touch, even though you control it? Answer: Your voice. 5. Riddle: What number is odd, until you take away one letter and it becomes even? Answer: Seven. 6. Riddle: What has many eyes, but can’t see? Answer: A potato. 7. Riddle: How many sides does a circle have? Answer: 2, inside and outside 8. Riddle: What is orange, has a green top, and sounds like a parrot? Answer: A carrot! - Atharv Gupta, IVB Los verbos regulares -Dhruv Pavan Pochu, IVB
219 |Shri Darpan Jallikathu Jallikattu is celebrated to worship cattle stock during Pongal festival. The tradition is derived from “Salli”, which means coins and “Kattu”, which means package. This package of coins is attached to the bulls' horns that participants try to retrieve. Jallikattu was banned by the Supreme Court in 2014, but the Tamil Nadu and central governments stepped in to reverse the bar amid widespread protests in the state. The ban, many fans argued, was an assault on Tamil pride. We must preserve the rituals of festivals but ensure that no one is harmed in the celebrations. - Harshika Mittapally, IVB Nag Panchami Nag Panchami is a famous festival of Hindus. ‘Nag’ means snake and this is the day when people worship snakes. It is celebrated in the month of July or August which is Shravan month according to the Hindu calendar. Nag Panchami is celebrated to remember Lord Krishna’s victory over Kaliya Nag. Like some of the Hindu festivals, there is another reason for celebrating Nag Panchami. People worship snakes to please Lord Shiva as Lord Shiva has a snake around his neck. Snakes love milk and the devotees of the Lord Shiva offer milk to snakes on this day. -Dhruv Pochu, IVB
220 |Shri Darpan Happy Makar Sankranti! - Jasmaira Singh, IV B Bhagoriya FestivaL Bhagoriya is a major festival of tribal people of Madhya Pradesh. It is celebrated in March for seven days. The festival takes place in the Badwani, Dhar, Allirajpur, Khargone and Jhabua districts of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. People celebrate this festival with music, dance and colours. Many fairs are held in the tribal villages. They wear traditional clothes and enjoy the fair. Traditionally, People travel on decorated bullock carts with their families and friends to celebrate the festival on ground. It is a festival of love and giving crops. - Kanishka Kuhu, IVB
221 |Shri Darpan Mopin Festival The 'Mopin' or 'Moopin' Festival is an agricultural festival celebrated by the Galo tribe of Arunachal Pradesh. It is believed that the festival brings wealth and prosperity to all households and to the whole community. Mopin Ane, a Goddess is worshipped during the festival. Participants perform a local traditional dance called Popir. The main focal point of the Mopin celebration is the sacrifice of the Mithun (also known as Gayal), a creature that is only found in North East India and Burma. During the festival, people eat aamin (a dish made of rice, meat and bamboo shoot). - Karthik Gutta, IVB Ugadi Ugadi celebrates the start of the Hindu new year. Ugadi is the day Rama was crowned the king of Ayodhya. Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana and Goa celebrate Ugadi with pomp and show. It is a day to celebrate new beginnings and pray for prosperity and happiness. Whatever be the name, the 'Chaitra Shuddha Paadyami' or the day of Ugadi is the reason for celebration for a large sect of the Hindus. - Kiara Gaggar, IVB Ugadi As per the Hindu mythology, during the evolution of the cosmos, Brahma, the creator commenced the act of creation on the day of Ugadi. The first day of the nine-day festival that celebrates the nine forms of Goddess Durga – Chaitra Navratri – is celebrated as Ugadi to mark the beginning of the creation of mankind by Lord Brahma. Ugadi is a Hindu festival, celebrated in the south Indian states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Telangana. The day is observed by drawing colourful patterns on the floor called Muggulu, mango leaf decorations on doors called torana, buying and giving gifts such as new clothes, giving charity to the poor, preparing and sharing a special food called pachadi, and visiting Hindu temples. - Kimmaya Sharma, IVB
222 |Shri Darpan Bihu Bihu is the main festival of Assam. It is known for its tea gardens, mighty Brahmaputra River and lush green forests. It celebrates the commencement of harvesting season and is also regarded as the first day of the Assamese New Year. The significance of this festival is purely agricultural in nature. Bohag Bihu is the most important Bihu festival among the three Bihu festivals. It is celebrated for seven days during the month of Bohag (Baishakh Month). In a year Assamese celebrate two more kinds of Bihu apart from Bohag, that is Maagh Bihu in the middle of January month and Kaati Bihu in the middle of October month. The festival is celebrated by the locals irrespective of caste, creed and beliefs. - Priyana Chatterjee, IVB Lohri Lohri is harvest festival in India. It is celebrated in Northern India with great enthusiasm. Lohri marks the end of winter and the onset of spring season. It is mostly celebrated in Punjab and areas of Haryana. In the night, people wear new clothes and gather at bonfire. People of Punjab celebrate Lohri on 13th January. They pray to God for a good harvest and enjoy sweet savouries. - Rohan Sai, IVB
223 |Shri Darpan Water Pollution Water pollution occurs when undesirable foreign substances are introduced into natural water. These substances may be chemical or biological in nature. Common pollutants include human and animal waste, disease-producing organisms, radio-active materials, toxic metals such as lead or mercury, agricultural chemicals such as pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers etc. Water pollution threatens 58% of the world’s ocean reefs as well as 34% of its fish. We must prevent water pollution by taking strict measures. We should be careful about what we throw down our sink or toilet. Also, we should not overuse pesticides and fertilisers. - Ryan Akhil Cherian, IVB Football Football is my favourite sport Out of all it is the best. It is more fun than cricket and tennis And your energy is put to test. The players are legends, What else can I say? It can be a lot of fun Even if you don’t know how to play. I want my team to score, And it is incredible when they win! And when the match is done, I still want to play again. I follow my club, I play with my friends, I learn how to play, I want to grow up to be A great footballer someday. We might not win every game, But we do have a lot of fun. We win and we lose But football is number one. - Saaransh Gupta, IVB
224 |Shri Darpan Quiz on Harvest festivals of India 1.Name any three famous harvest festivals of India. Ans: Baisakhi, Lori, Oman, Ugadi, Wangle, etc. 2.Guess where Baisakhi is celebrated? Ans: In northern India, mainly Punjab 3. For how many days is Onam celebrated? Ans: Onam is celebrated for 10 days. 4. How do we celebrate Bihu? Ans: People celebrate this day by singing traditional Bihu songs and dancing in an organized outdoor location, prayer halls, or fields. 5. Why do we celebrate Holi? Ans: The Holi Festival is celebrated as a way to welcome spring. - Sai Aaradhya Reddy, IVB Pushkar Festival Pushkar is an Indian festival. People celebrate this festival at shrines along the banks of 12 sacred rivers in India. The celebration happens annually, once in 12 years along each river. Each river is associated with a zodiac sign, and the river for each year’s festival is based on which sign Jupiter is at that time. - Sanvitha Veerapaneni, IVB
225 |Shri Darpan ¿Qué tiempo hace? - Swecha Chava, IVB Khasi Tribe Men wear a longish, sleeveless without collar coat, in Khasi which is known as Jymphong while women wear jainsem or dhara. Khasi tribe has seven sub tribes which are 1. Khinryam or Nongphlang 2. Pnar 3. Bhoi 4. War 5. Maram 6. Lyngnagan 7. Diko Most of the tribe is Christian but there is another religion, known as Niam Khasi. CHRISTIANTY- 80% NIAM KHASI - 20% Related ethnic groups- Khmers, Jantia people, Palaungs, Was, Kinh, Mon-Khmers Language-Khasi - Swecha Chava, IVB
226 |Shri Darpan Lesser-known Harvest Festivals of India Being a land of farming and agriculture, there are many harvest festivals in India. Some of them are1. Nuakhai: In the native language, Nua means new and Khai means food, together indicates the celebration of the first harvested rice. 2. Wangala: It is one of the most celebrated harvest festivals in India and it celebrates the arrival of winter. Through this festival, the Sun God is adorned with prayers and love. 3. Nabanna: Celebrated in West Bengal, Nabanna is celebrated with Payesh (kheer) cooked out of the freshly harvested rice. -Tanmay Garg, IVB Ladakh Harvest Festival Ladakh harvest festival is celebrated between the 1st and 15th of September. It is celebrated in Ladakh with a procession of culture troupes through Leh market. People wear bright clothes and there are musical and dance performances. Ladakh harvest festival makes people want to share things with others who are not so fortunate. -Tanvi K, IVB A Festival of Drums – Wangala Pulsating percussive sound of 100 drums, chanting and humming in synchrony, is what is heard loud and clear at Wangala festival. The festivity marks the completion of harvesting and resulting in huge amount of crop from the fields. It also anticipates the arrival of winter. It is usually celebrated for two days but at times, lasts for one week. Three rituals are performed on three different days by the people of Meghalaya. A spread of unique Garo cuisine is also part of the festival. The Wangala festive festival is a way to preserve and promote the cultural identity of Garos in Meghalaya. -Tejomayi Reddy Palla, IVB The Word Poem My friend said a word, a nice word, a cool word, but I can’t quite remember since she said it last December. But she said a word, an amazing word. That day I wore jeans and I think she said lean or maybe clean, I didn’t quite understand perhaps. She said it out loud, I think she said south but she said a word, fantabulous or bird, but she said a word. -Trisha Sharma, IVB
227 |Shri Darpan చట్ట ిచెల్లలు ో చట్టిచెలిోచట్టిచెలిోఎకక డునన ది? ఏమూలన దాగ్గంద్య తెలియక్తనన ది. ఎలుకలా ఇరుక్తచోట్దూరుతునన ది . ఏది పడితే అది నోట్లోపెడుత్నంట్ది తీసుక్తంట్ట కయుయ మని అరుసుాననది ర్ము ంట్ట బోస నవుా నవుా తునన ది బొము చూస చక చకా వసనా ననది. అము ప్పలుపు వనగానే చంకనెకిక ంది. – Aashritha Paadi, IVC Challenge Your Knowledge of Indian Festivals Q1: Which festival is celebrated in the second week of January? Q2: Which harvest festival includes drawing of Kolam, singing and cooking? Q3: Which harvest festival is also known as Vaisakhi? Q4: Which harvest festival marks the end of winter? Q5: Which harvest festival is celebrated in Kerala in the month of AugustSeptember? Q6: Which harvest festival is the most significant and vibrant of Assamese culture? Q7: In which harvest festival do you commemorate the sacrifice of Holika? Answers: 1. Makar Sankranti 2. Pongal 3. Baisakhi 4. Lohri 5. Onam 6. Bihu 7. Holi - Adhrit Navaluri, IVC
228 |Shri Darpan Sankranti Quiz time: - 1. In Andhra Pradesh, Makar Sankranti is known as? 2. Where is Sankranti celebrated? 3. On which day Sankranti is celebrated? 4. What is special about Sankranti? Answers 1. Pedda Pandaga. 2. It is celebrated in Gujarat. 3. It is celebrated on 14 January. 4. It is important for spiritual practices. - Advaith Korrapati, IVC Diwali Diwali is a festival of lights. Diwali is celebrated because Lord Ram returned from exile and there were lights all over. Now people burst crackers which are not good for the environment. Here is a little puzzle to know more about Diwali. FIND OUT THE WORDS. DIWALI, LIGHT, FLOWER POT & CRACKERS V B D I W A L I H R C H S I O G L I G H T R F M J Y I T F L O W E R P O T T O T I N C R A C K E R S G J T T N T Answers: V B D I W A L I H R C H S I O G L I G H T R F M J Y I T F L O W E R P O T T O T I N C R A C K E R S G J T T N T - Arshi Lath, IVC Sankranthi in Konaseema (Andhra Pradesh) Sankranti is much celebrated in Andhra Pradesh and is witnessed for three days, Bhogi, Sankranti and Kanuma. One observes colourful rangolis, bommala koluvu, cattle decked up in colours, ornaments and delicious food. On the day of Kanuma, a special utsav ‘Prabhala Theertham (tall totem festival)’ is held in Konaseema, the Godavari region. This is a 400-year-old tradition and the main aim of this festival is to usher unity, peace and prosperity.
229 |Shri Darpan People decorate bamboo arches with Lord Siva images. People carry Prabhalas which are as long as 50+ feet high in a grand possession. - Kanishk Varma Datla, IVC My Trip to Laknavaram Lake After a long time, my parents and I decided to go on a holiday. I was so excited about it when I heard that my best friend’s family is also coming. I packed my bag and the next morning, off we went. My mother packed lots of treats. My friend and I ate in the car. As soon as we reached the Laknavaram Lake, we went to walk on the Hanging Bridge. It was amazing because it felt like we were walking on the lake. Then, we went boating in a speed boat. It was breathtaking! We all were wearing life jackets to protect us from drowning. Laknavaram Lake is really a very beautiful place. - Mahi Bansal, IVC Diwali Poem The Festival of Lights is here! Fireworks light up the Night. Not 1 not 2, but many fireworks at a time! Your mother’s sweets are the best treats, We share, exchange and then eat. - Mishka Gaurav Sarda, IVC (సంసక ృతి) భార్తీయ సంసక ృతి భార్త్దేశంల్లని వభినన సమాజాలు మరియుమతాల యొకక వభినన సంసక ృతులను సూచసుాంది. భార్త్దేశం స్నన హపూర్ా కంగా, గొపప ార్సత్ా ం మరియుసంత్పదాయాలక్త చ్చలా కాలంగా త్పసదిదచెందింది. భార్త్దేశంయొకక శకివాంత్మైన సంసక ృతి వేడుకలయొకక అధక ఉతాస హంతో మరియువైవధయ మైన ఆహార్ం, పండుగలు, సంగీత్ం, కళ్లు, సంత్పదాయాలు మరియుఆచ్చరాల కలయికతో నిండి ఉంది. భార్త్దేశం గ్గజరాతీ, త్మిళ్ం, హందీ, మణిపురి, సంసక ృత్ం మరియుపంజాబీ వంట్ట వభినన భాషా సా రాలను కలిగి ఉంది.
230 |Shri Darpan వభినన నేపథాయ లు, జీవనశైలి మరియుసంసక ృతులక్త చెందిన త్పజలక్త భార్త్దేశం ఆత్శయం ఇసుాంది. భార్తీయ సంసక ృతులు, వలువలు, ఆచ్చరాలు, ఆచ్చరాలు, సంత్పదాయాలు మరియునము కాలు అనిన ర్కాల ర్ంగ్గలను మిళ్ళత్ం చేస్తాయి. భార్తీయ సంత్పదాయాలు మరియుసంసక ృతియొకక నిజమైన స్తరాంశం త్గామీణ భార్త్దేశం నడిబొడుాన ఉంది. - Nihal Reddy, IVC Word Search: Names of Festivals Names of the festivals are hidden in the search box. Find them and circle them. M W D T H A N K S G I V I N G A A R F A E H G Q T L V X Z A H F K X H M D I W A L I K H N A I F A H A C W I E H M B J E S R G Y R K B Y E Q D S I A S H E T D U S S E H R A P H N H I W Z F G O A F W T U O U M C V T P E C U R N Q I Y P T A H A U G A D I R U K T O J K S A R A M Z A N S U P R N Y G H T A A A D F G H J P P A R R T U T R C V B N M L K H M N P M R R C H R I S T M A S F R T I T T X R F G D R R Y K A A G I H D T F G U D I P A D W A Y Q I
231 |Shri Darpan -Prabhav Chimakurthi, IVC Krishnaswami Festival Krishna Janmashtami is the occasion of the birth of Krishna. It is also known as Krishnaswami Janmashtami, Or Gokulashtami. Krishna was born in the Yadava clan of Mathura to Queen Devaki and husband king Vasudeva. Stories portrays him as a prankster, a gentle lover, and child -like God. It is believed that Krishna was born in a dungeon of Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. - Rangineni Kshiraja, IVC Diwali Diwali is one of the major festival of Hindus. It is also known as the festival of lights. It is celebrated in the autumn season, mostly in the month of November. Lord Rama returned home after 14 years of exile. We also do Lakshmi and Ganesh puja on this day. We lighten our house with electric lights and diyas. This festival is liked by many kids as they burst crackers but because of pollution we should avoid crackers and celebrate eco-friendly Diwali. We celebrate this festival with joy and great enthusiasm. - Samyak Srivastav, IV C M W D T H A N K S G I V I N G A A R F A E H G Q T L V X Z A H F K X H M D I W A L I K H N A I F A H A C W I E H M B J E S R G Y R K B Y E Q D S I A S H E T D U S S E H R A P H N H I W Z F G O A F W T U O U M C V T P E C U R N Q I Y P T A H A U G A D I R U K T O J K S A R A M Z A N S U P R N Y G H T A A A D F G H J P P A R R T U T R C V B N M L K H M N P M R R C H R I S T M A S F R T I T T X R F G D R R Y K A A G I H D T F G U D I P A D W A Y Q I
232 |Shri Darpan Pop Quiz on Festivals Q1. Which of these is a harvest festival? 1. Hajj 2. Onam 3. Holi Q2. Which of the following is majorly celebrated by muslims? 1. Eid 2. Ganesh Chaturthi 3. Hanuman Jayanti Q3. Why is Bhogi celebrated? Answers A1. Onam A2. Eid A3. Bhogi is a fire and it is celebrated because people believe that Bhogi fire will take all bad habits away. - Siva Pranav Korukonda, IVC Rongker Rongker is a festival of merriment observed by the Karbis of Assam. It is also known as Dehal in Dumra Longri i.e. Kamrup Metropolitan district of Assam and Ri-Bhoi district of Meghalaya. The Karbis are found in the states of Meghalaya, Arunachal, Manipur and Nagaland. Rongker is celebrated either on 5th January or 5th February as Thanksgiving to God and asking for assistance to protect them from any evil harm that may happen to the whole village. The deities are worshipped in two ways – Kibo-kaba, offering of meals to the deities and Koia-abida, offering of areca-nut and betel leaves to the deities. The entire manfolk take part in the festival. - Swara Borude, IVC Gudi Padwa Gudi Padwa with a Amazing treats! Gudi Padwa with delicious feasts! The traditional New Year is here For celebrating our culture with joy. Gudi padwa with best wishes Gudi Padwa with best dishes. Gudi padwa is the best When there are guests. On this occasion we meet each other And help mother for making beautiful rangoli. We must be endowed with happiness. It’s new beginning, a fresh start, Wishing you all a happy Gudi padwa from the core of my heart! - Swara Joshi, IVC
233 |Shri Darpan Word Search: Holi Festival Find words related to the ‘festival of colours’. W A T E R B A L L O O N A B C N D E F G H I J K T L C J M F R I E N O S E N O O P U Q R S T U V R W X Y L N Y Z H N O W G I K M N O W M O Y A B U C E E S H U O L P T O N S E N E Y O R I U A G A I N T S O O N R I S H Words 1. Water Balloon 2. Water Gun 3. Friends 4. Fun 5. Enjoyment 6. Holi 7. Colour - Tayesh Singla, IV C Festival of Colors Holi is celebrated across India in March. I like Holi because children throw water balloons at each other and have a lot of fun. Holi is celebrated because Hiranykashyap thought he was God and that everyone should worship him but his son Prahlad worshipped Lord Vishnu and not his father. This made Hiranykashyap angry. He tried to hurt his son in many ways. One day he found out that his sister, Holika, had the blessing that fire could not burn her. He made Holika sit in fire with Prahlad. Hiranykashyap thought that he would be burnt and his sister would come out safely but the opposite happened. This day is celebrated because Holika was burnt. We celebrate this day by playing with water guns, water balloons and colors. - Tayesha Singla, IVC
234 |Shri Darpan The Ramayana The Ramayana is an ancient Sanskrit epic which documents Prince Rama's mission to rescue his beloved wife Sita from Ravan. It is traditionally attributed to the authorship of the sage Valmiki and dated to around 500 BCE to 100 BCE. From Ram and Sita to king Dashratha, Laxman, Hanuman, and Ravan, Ramayana has many characters, and every character teaches us an important life lesson. According to historians, Ramayana is around 9300–10000 years old. - Vibha Naren Kalyanam, IVC Ganesh Chaturthi Ganesh Chaturthi is a Hindu festival. It is mainly celebrated in Maharastra. It was first celebrated by Bal Gangadhar Tilak in Pune in the year1893. On Ganesh Chaturthi we worship Lord Ganesha and do immersion in water. People buy Ganesha idols and keep them in their houses. We should be careful about the immersion as it harms aquatic animals and pollutes water bodies. So, we should buy eco-friendly Ganesha idols only so it doesn’t damage the environment. - Vihaas Chowdary, IVC Dusshera Quiz 1. Vijayadashami is the biggest festival in ______ a. Nepal b. Bangladesh c. Malaysia d. Dubai 2. Which of the following is /are the names of Ravana? a. Dasamukha b. Dashaanan c. Lankeshwer d. all of the above 3. What are the names of Ravana’s parents? a. Visravasa, Kaikasi b. Krishna, Yashoda c. Ganga, Laxman d. Atraayu, Draupadi Answers: 1. Nepal 2. All of the above 3. (a) - Yuval Sharma, IVC
235 |Shri Darpan Lohri Lohri is celebrated on 13 January. It is celebrated in Northern India. It is also known as Lal Loi. On Lohri people set a bonfire, play songs on dhol and dance. It is a harvest festival. We worship Lord Agni. Famers pray to Lord Agni so that their land is blessed with wealth. Lohri is celebrated everywhere in Northern India but has different names, exampleMaghi and Uttarayan. It is related to Dulla Bhatti. On Lohri, they eat Gur ki Roti, dry fruits, chikki etc. They celebrate it in the evening. - Aanha Chauhan, IVD Christmas Christmas is celebrated on December 25th as the birth anniversary of Jesus Christ. Many Christians go to church and pray to Jesus. They sing Christmas carols, too. They listen to peaceful music and exchange gifts under the Christmas tree. Many kids enjoy Christmas just because of Santa. Some parents pretend to be Santa and keep presents under the tree to make their kids happy. North pole is real but there are no flying reindeer in the world. I wish to see Santa travelling with his reindeer in the sky, some day. - Aanya Penumatsa, IVD Holi Holi is known as the festival of colours. It is one of the most important festivals in India. Holi is celebrated with the same zeal and gusto every year. Holi is about spending time with your friends and family and forgetting all your troubles. The coloured dyes of Holi are called gulaal and abeer. Years ago, these colours were made from the leaves of the palash tree. Holi falls on the day of the full moon in March. - Aarna Kasat, IVD
236 |Shri Darpan A Fun Quiz on Birds The following is a quiz for bird enthusiasts. The questions are based on my recent visit to Ranganhittu bird sanctuary near Mysuru. 1) A migratory bird which has a wingspan for 8 feet __________ 2) A bird which belongs to the stork family ______ 3) A bird belonging to the same family as eagle with a brown back and white breast and head ________ 4) A shy and smart flycatcher, known for a long tail (9-12 inches) _______ 5) A bird that spreads its wings after a swim ___________ Answers Pelicans - eciapnsl Open bill stork – epon llib Brahminy Kite – rhiymabn ietk Asian paradise flycatcher – nsaai raapesid rccyttlfaerh Cormorant – roomrtnac - Akhil Addeppali, IVD Christmas Christmas is a Christian festival celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ on December 25. Christians worship Jesus Christ, who Christians believe is the son of God. People exchange presents and savour sweet delicacies of the season. They visit church and keep warm milk and cookies for Santa’s visit. - Ana Maria, IVD -Anika Gurrala, IVD - Mahanya, IVD
237 |Shri Darpan Mahavir Jayanti Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated mainly by Jains. This is celebrated to honour the birth of Lord Mahavira. People go to temples and praying to God Mahavira. Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated for unity and peace. Lord Mahavira is, in fact the founder of Jainism. People believe that Gautama was the leader of all the other disciples. It is mostly celebrated in Gujarat and Rajasthan. -Anika Mehta, IVD Holi Dum, dum, dum, Holi has come, Red, yellow, green, all colours are on me. Run run run, where will you run? Here come the colours from my water gun! Dum, dum, dum, Holi has come, I like Holi! It’s great fun. Dum, dum, dum, Holi has come Run, run, run, where will you run? - Anirudh Rao. B, IVD Bathukamma Bathukamma is celebrated for nine days during Durga Navratri. It starts on the day of Mahamaya Amarvasya and the-9-day festivities culminate on saddle Bathukamma or Pedda Bathukamma festival on Ashwayuja Ashtami, popularly know as Durgashtami which is two days before Dussehra. - Dishitha Sai, IVD Losar Festival The word "Lo" means "year" and the word "Sar" translates to "new". Losar festival, also known as Tibetan New Year, is a festival in Tibetan Buddhism. Losar festival is celebrated on 1st February. It is celebrated in Tibet, Bhutan, Nepal, and India. Losar is praised in the Ladakh area of Jammu, Kashmir, and Arunachal Pradesh. Losar is celebrated for 15 days, with the main celebrations on the first three days. On the first day, a beverage called “changkol” made from “chhaang” is drunk by people. The second day is called Gyalpo Losar. They perform a dance called Cham Dance, where the dancers wearing colourful and elaborate costumes and masks, perform the 'devil dance' signifying the triumph of good over evil. On the third-day people get together and have feasts. - Charvi Reddy Bhumireddy, IVD
238 |Shri Darpan Chhath Puja An important festival for the Indian state of Bihar and some places in UP and Nepal, Chhath Puja rituals start on the sixth day of Hindu calendar month, Kartika. Chhath Puja festivities span across four days and are observed to worship the Sun God and seek his blessings for the overall prosperity of the family. The fervor around the puja is marked by offering prayers to the Sun God, fasting and taking dips into the holy waters of Ganga. - Cheedi Krishna Manohar, IVD Quiz on Religious Festivals 1. Which festival do Christians celebrate to ruminate the reappearance of Jesus Christ? a. Good Friday c. Easter b. Cross Day d. Christmas 2. Which festival in India is celebrated to be thankful to God Sun for the harvest? a. Pongal c. Durga puja b. Maha shivratri d. Chatt puja 3. Which festival in Punjab is famous to harvest rabi crops? a. Uttarayan c. Bihu b. Baisakhi d. Lohri 4. Which National festival in India is celebrated to memorialize the day when the Constitution of India came in effect? a. Independence Day c. Republic Day b. Gandhi Jayanthi d. None of these 5. Which of the following crop festival is celebrated in Arunachal Pradesh? a. Onam c. Lohri b. Bihu d. Dree Answer Key: - 1. c. 2. a. 3. d. 4. c. 5. d. - Daksh Agarwa, IVD Christmas Christmas is celebrated because according to Bible, Jesus Christ was born on the night between 24 and 25 December. Jesus’s mother’s name was Mary and his father’s name was Joseph. The name of the angel who declared the birth of Jesus was “Gabriel”. We often refer to Jesus as Jesus Christ, and some people assume that Christ is Jesus's last name. But Christ is actually a title, not a last name. So if Christ isn't a last name, what was Jesus's last name? Think about it… - Misha Singhania, IVD
239 |Shri Darpan Kumbh Mela The Kumbh Mela is the largest gathering of faith in which people bathe in the holy river. It is celebrated at Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain. The name ‘Kumbh’ is derived from the immortal pot of nectar which the devtas and demons fought over. The devtas and demons conjointly produced nectar of immortality. The devtas kept the pot safely while the demons chased them to get the pot, during this time few drops of Kumbh dropped at four places Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain. The fight for the Kumbh lasted for 12 days, which is considered to be as long as 12 years for humans. That is why Kumbh Mela is celebrated once in 12 years on the dates when the nectar is said to have fallen in the holy river. Every four years there is a Mini Kumbh Mela. The next Maha Kumbh Mela will be celebrated in the year 2028 at Ujjain. Ira Daga, IVD Makar Sankranti Makar Sankranti consists of two words ‘Makar and Sankranti’. Makar means the Capricorn zodiac, and Sankranti means shift. So putting it together, Makar Sankranti marks the transition of the Sun God from Dhanu Rasi to Makara Rasi. It also marks the end of harvest festival and the start of spring. On this day people make several offerings to the Sun god and take a dip in holy rivers across the country. Kite flying is the main tradition of this festival. To maintain happiness and prosperity in life, people donate sweets and wheat to needy people. Women decorate their home entrance with rice flour and colours called Muggu. Worship of cattle, merry-making and feasts mark the festival. -Mahanya K, IVD Onam People in Kerala celebrate Onam as New Year. The whole state is marked by happiness, excitement and enjoyment. Onam is an annual Indian harvest festival celebrated mainly by the Hindus of Kerala. It is the official festival of the state. Onam falls in the month of Chingam, which is the first month according to the Calendar. Celebrations and activities ranging from boat races, cultural programs, sports competitions, dance events, martial arts, floral Rangoli – pookkalam, prayers, shopping, donating time or food for charity to spending time with family over feasts. Men and women wear traditional dress. The Kerala sari or Kasavu sari is particularly worn on this day. - Tummala Moksha, IVD
240 |Shri Darpan Diwali Diwali is one of the main festivals in India. People celebrate Diwali because Lord Rama reached Ayodhya after 14 years of exile, defeating Ravana. Diwali is festival of lights, so on Diwali everyone put lamps and diyas. People celebrate Diwali by bursting firecrackers and spending time with family. On Diwali, people wear new dresses and exchange sweets. Diwali is celebrated in many states like U.P., Punjab, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh etc. Diwali is celebrated for five days. - Ramnarayan TR, IVD Solve The Puzzle Arjun was walking down the street when a big crowd of brightly dressed people covered the entire street. How can Arjun find his way out of the crowd of people? Just when Arjun found his way out, he saw that the people were carrying something. What could it be!? On coming closer, he saw some drums beat and he recognized what it was. Can you guess the festival that was being celebrated? Answer: Ganesh Chaturthi - Saarang. SS. Iyengar, IVD Mahavir Jayanti Mahavir Jayanti is the most important festival celebrated in the Jain religion. Mahavir is also known as ‘Vardhman’, the 24th ‘Tirthankara’ of the Jain religion. Mahavira was born on the Chaitra month during 540 BC in Bihar. He was born to king ‘Siddhartha’, after his birth, kingdom’s prosperity was increased so he got the name ‘Vardhman’. Mahavira was married to ‘Yashodhara’. Mahavira and Yashodhara had a daughter named Priyadarshana. A procession called Rath Yatra is taken out with the idol of Lord Mahavir in it. - Sanskriti Kumari, IVD Two Friends Tim and Richard were best friends. One day they came to know about the racing competition in their community. The competition was all about racing on wheels like skates, skateboard, bicycle or a tricycle. Both the friends were very interested in the competition. Tim asked Richard what he is going to choose. Richard wanted to choose the skateboard and Tim wanted to choose skating.
241 |Shri Darpan They soon ran for registering their names for the competition. There they met their neighbour, James, who was participating and had chosen skates. James, challenged the two friends that he is going to win the race. Tim got discouraged and feared that he will not win the race. Richard told Tim that being sad and thinking will not help him. He tells him that practicing daily would make him strong and he will surely win the race. So, Tim starts to practise daily. The day of the competition arrives. Tim doesn’t give up and remembers Richard’s words and focuses on the race. At the end Tim won the race and got the medal! - Saketh Kalwari, IVD Ganesh Chaturthi Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayak Chaturthi, is a religious festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated on the fourth day of the sixth monthBhadrapada- according to Hindu calendar. On Ganesh Chaturthi we welcome Lord Ganesha to our houses for at least 1,3,5,7,9 or 10 days. We worship Lord Ganesha on this festival for his blessings. Ganesh Chaturthi is a fun and exciting festival. - Rishit Mauli Kharat, IVD Mardi Gras Mardi Gras is the day before Ash Wednesday, when the Christian season of Lent (40 days fasting period) begins. This day is also called Shrove Tuesday, a name that comes from the practice of “shriving”—purifying oneself through confession—prior to Lent. In cities such as New Orleans (U.S.), Rio Janeiro (Brazil), and Venice (Italy), there are week-long festivals leading up to Mardi Gras. In French, Mardi Gras means “Fat Tuesday.” This name comes from the tradition of using up the eggs, milk, and fat in one’s pantry because they were forbidden during the 40-day Lenten fast, which begins the next day (Ash Wednesday) and ends on Holy Thursday (three days before Easter Sunday). The tiny settlement of Fort Louis de la Mobile celebrated America’s very first Mardi Gras in 1703. - Soukhya G, IVD
242 |Shri Darpan Let’s Tickle Our Funny Bone! - Veera Soukhya, IVD Gangaur Gangaur is a festival celebrated in Rajasthan and Nimaar region of Madhya Pradesh. It starts on the first day of Chaitra (Month as per Hindu calendar) followed by Holi and continues for 16 days. Women decorate their hands and feet with mehandi. Gangaur is celebrated as one of the 86 Hindu festivals by North Indian people and celebrations and rituals marking Gangaur is carried out differently in different parts of India. Images of Parvati and Gauri are made of clay for the festival. In some Rajput families, permanent wooden images are painted afresh every year by reputed painters. - Nivika Pareek, IVE
243 |Shri Darpan - Teja Tvaritha, IVD
244 |Shri Darpan Word Wizardry on Festivals ACROSS DOWN [3] Famous festival in Kerala (India) [1] Muju firefly festival is celebrated in [4] Harvest festival of South India (India) [2] Festival of nine nights (India) [8] Khovsgol ice festival is celebrated in [5] Festival of colours (India) [10] Dragon boat festival (duan wu jie) is a festival of [6] Maha Shivratri is the festival of God (India) [12] National art festival is famous in [7] Rama Krishna Paramhamsa is a devotee of (India) or famous festival in West Bengal is dedicated to Goddess [13] Good ...... (day of a week) [9] Festival of lights (India) [14] Resurrection of Jesus from the dead [11] Happy telugu new year (India) [12] Hari Raya is celebrated in [15] The religious holiday is celebrated worldwide because it marks the end of the month-long dawntosunset fasting of Ramadan
245 |Shri Darpan Solution - Tejo Krishna D, IVD Chhath Puja Chhath puja is a bathing festival. It is a major festival in Bihar. Chhath puja is a fourday long, hard, strict, and spiritual observance. The first day of chhath puja includes a dip in the holy river or any other water body. Chhath puja is a popular festival which is started on the 6th day of the Hindu calendar month Kartika. This festival is dedicated to the worship of the Sun God and his wife Usha. This festival is celebrated to thank God for supporting life on earth and to seek the blessings of divine Sun God and his wife.
246 |Shri Darpan Bathukamma Here ye, Here ye! It’s time to celebrate, The religious festival Bathukamma, Oh, I can’t wait! It starts with fun and frolic, And all join in the fun. It’s a nine-day festival, Celebrated by all! It’s celebrated in the states of Andhra Pradesh, And look, Telangana! Our state! We celebrate Bathukamma To thank Goddess Parvati, For her blessings, for crop harvest And income, woohoo! So, for Bathukamma, We eagerly wait, to celebrate, this wonderful day! - Aadhya Budaala, IVE Dusshera Dussehra is celebrated usually in October, for 10 days. The first nine days are celebrated as Navaratri. On Navaratri, we worship Goddess Durga. Durga puja is the biggest festival of the year in Bengal. In Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, people arrange dolls in their homes, women exchange gifts of clothes, coconuts, sweets. In Kerala, on this day, thousands of little ones learn the first letters of the alphabets. In Gujarat, people perform Garba dance. The whole of North India celebrates the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana On the tenth day of Vijayadashami, people go to the Ram Lila ground to burn the statue of Ravana. - Cherish Pratapani, IVE
247 |Shri Darpan Eid Mubarak Eid is celebrated by Muslims. On this day people hug each other saying “Eid Mubarak” meaning Happy Eid. People go to the mosque and pray. They celebrate this day with their family and friends. They give money, clothes, food and other basic things which are needed, to the poor. On this day people wear new clothes and celebrate. Muslims pray that everyone should stay peaceful on this day. They also cook delicious food and eat as the fast is ended. Eid is celebrated for 3 days. Fasting on Eid is not allowed. The word “Eid” means celebrations or festivals. During the month of Ramadan muslims fast for 30 days. In Ramadan month they do not eat or drink anything. Eid is a festival of joy. It is one of the most important festivals celebrated by muslims. - Challagulla Sri Vrunda, IVE Float Festival The beautiful festival of Theppotsav initiated in Madurai city of Tamil Nadu. King Thirumalai Nayak came up with the idea of this tradition. As a part of this festival, the principal idol of the temples is adorned and taken in procession through the tank of the temple. Some of the temples where the float festival is celebrated are Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, Meenakshi Amman Temple, and Madurai. The city has been celebrating the Float festival since the 17th century when people started to worship the deities by taking them on a boat ride in the artificial lake made near an ancient temple. Nearly 70,000 people visit the festival each year. - Keya Sahoo, IVE Tribal Festival The National Tribal Festival is celebrated by the tribals of India in the National Capital Region, of India i.e. New Delhi. The festival is celebrated in the mid of February every year. It is organized by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India. Puttari is a rice harvest festival that is celebrated by the Kodava community in the months of November, and December. Packed with traditions, and rituals, the festival is kick started with a gunshot in the air.
248 |Shri Darpan The tribal people have traditionally been eating tubers, various wild leafy vegetables, wild fruits, wild grain among other foods, collected from the forests itself while gathering firewood. For non-vegetarians, it was mostly seasonal fish and crabs, which they found in the local water bodies. -Gaman, IVE Ganesh Chaturthi Quiz of Ganesh Chaturthi: How many names does Ganesha have? Who was Ganesha’s daughter? Where is the original head of Ganesha? How many sisters did Ganesha have? Who were the two sisters of Ganesha? Who was the enemy of Ganesha? How many wives did Ganesha have? Who were the two wives of Ganesha? How many brothers did Ganesha have? Who was the brother of Ganesha? Who is the father of Ganesha? Who is the mother of Ganesha? Answer Key: - 1. 108 names 2. Santoshi Mata 3. Chandra Mandal 4. Two 5. Riddhi and Siddhi 6. One 7. Kartikeya 8. Shiva 9. One 10. Parvathi Sashreek, IVE
249 |Shri Darpan Thadiya Gouri Nomu / Pooja Nomu is performed by women of the family and is dedicated to Goddess Gauri for the health, longevity, happiness, and prosperity of the husband. It is celebrated across Telangana, one day before Ganesh Chaturthi. It is a tradition that runs in certain families through generations. Significant rituals of this pooja are: Gauri idol with turmeric paste, “uttareni” leaves, Kankanam with 16 uttareni leaves on 16 strands of thread with 16 knots, 16 Kudumulu (steamed rice cakes) with snake gourd chutney. It is the faith in the goddess and inner strength of these women that makes them perform this pooja with great devotion every year. - Hridaan A, IVE Pongal Pongal is a harvest festival celebrated to thank the sun, Mother Nature and various farm animals that help to contribute to a bountiful harvest. It is celebrated for 3 days- Bhogi, Makara and Kanuma. On Bhogi day, we discard old belongings to signify a fresh start and houses are decorated in the spirit of festivity. On Makara day, the sun god is honored, and beautiful Rangoli is made in front of the houses with colours. On Kanuma day, families gather together to have a meal. It is the day for traditional Indian folk dances. Kids fly kites on all these days. - Nakshatra, IVE
250 |Shri Darpan Pushkar Fair-Article The Pushkar Fair is also called Camel Fair Pushkar Mela. It is an annual five-day camel and livestock fair held in the town of Pushkar, Rajasthan. It is organised between October and November. It is one of the world's largest cattle fairs. Apart from the buying and selling of livestock, it has become an important tourist attraction. Competitions such as the ‘matkaphod’, ‘longest mustache’, and ‘bridal competition’ are the main highlights for this fair which attracts thousands of tourists. In recent years, the fair has also included an exhibition football match between the locals. I look forward to visiting the fair with my family this year. - Aanyaa, IVE Durga Puja Many of us know about Durga Puja, but not everything we do in Kolkata. Legend says that when Mahishasura was tormenting people, Goddess Durga had been incarnated to slay him. It is believed that every year, Goddess Durga visits her parents with her children (Ganesha, Karthikeya, Lakshmi and Saraswati). She stays on earth for a week and then goes back to Kailash. We worship her when she comes to earth by building her idol after Rath Yatra. On the fifth day of Navaratri (Panchami), we start the celebrations. We offer Pushpanjali, wear new clothes, eat Bhog and decorate the city with festive lights. On the tenth day (Vijayadashami), adults play Holi with vermilion and dance with Dhunuchi (incense burner) made out of clay. We put in some coir, and burn it to make a Dhunuchi. In the afternoon, we immerse the idol in a river and wish each other “Subho Bijoya”. We wait eagerly till next year for Goddess Durga to visit us again. - Rohini Bhattacharya, IVE