Festivals

The history and culture of Gujarat has its roots in its religion. The fairs and festivals celebrated here, have religious significance for it's people. Joyous environment, colourful dresses, devotion and love for the deities, this is what signifies festivals for any body residing at Ahmedabad.

There are two important festivals celebrated in the city. One is Uttrayan (Makar Sankranti) or Kite Festival. The other festival is Navratri which is festival of nine nights. An annual Jaggannath Rath Yatra (Charoit Procession) is also conducted by local people on a massive scale.

Kite Festivals :- The International Kite Festival is always held at Ahmedabad on January 14, to coincide with the festival of Uttarayan or Makar Sankranti. People celebrate Uttarayan with a lot of enthusiasm and all business comes to a grinding halt for a couple of days. It is also a celebration to mark the end of winter. 

Navratri :- Navratri or the festival of nine nights is devoted to Goddess Shakti. The festival also has the famous folk dance of Gujarat "Garba". The festival continues for nine nights, everybody takes part into it with same emphasis. Garba is also played with 'Dandiyas' (sticks) in hand. 

Rath Yatra :- In the month of June / July a massive procession is taken out from the Jagannath temple in Ahmedabad. Amidst the chanting of the sacred and Vedic hymns, the chariot is taken out carrying idols Krishna, Balram and Subhadra. It is very similar to Jagannath Puri's Yath Yatra. The procession starts in the morning from the Jagdish Mandir situated in the Jamalpur area of the city. The chariots of Krishna, Balram and Subhadra, adorned with garlands, are taken around the city amidst much pomp and show.

Tarnetar Fair :- The Tarnetar fair is held every year on the 4th, 5th and 6th of the Shukla Paksha (Aug-Sept) at the Trinteshwar (Three-eyed god) Temple of Lord Shiva near Surendranagar. In this unique festival the practice of Swayamvar still persists. Ahmedabad peoples assume that if the girl stops to talk to one of the men, it is a sign that she has found the man of her choice.