Art and Culture

 

Indian Art and Culture for Competitive Affairs

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra to Resume from June 30, 2025

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is set to resume on June 30, 2025, after a four-year suspension due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The pilgrimage will be conducted via the Uttarakhand route under the supervision of the Ministry of External Affairs and the Government of Uttarakhand, with Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN) managing the operations.

The yatra will start from Delhi, proceeding through Lipulekh Pass in Pithoragarh district to enter China. 250 pilgrims, divided into five batches of 50, will undertake this 22-day spiritual journey. The first group enters China on July 10, and the last group returns by August 22.

Important stopovers include Tanakpur, Dharchula, Gunji, and Nabhidhang on the way to Kailash, and Bundi, Chaukori, and Almora on the return route.

To ensure safety, medical screenings will be carried out in Delhi and Gunji, supported by the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP).

Book ‘Sanskriti Ka Panchva Adhyay’ a compilation of PM Modi’s speeches, launched in New Delhi

A book titled Sanskriti Ka Panchva Adhyay, a compilation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speeches, was launched in New Delhi on 18 April 2025.

The book was released by Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Swami Avdheshanand Giri, head of the Juna Akhara, and the event was presided over by Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh.

Key highlights:

  • The book reflects PM Modi’s commitment to preserving India’s culture, traditions, and spiritual values.
  • Harivansh praised the Prime Minister’s role in safeguarding India’s cultural heritage.
  • Swami Avdheshanand Giri noted that since 2014, there has been innovation and a cultural transformation across India.
  • He emphasized that cultural topics are now discussed with more depth and pride in the country.

Gita and Natyashastra included in UNESCO’s Memory of World Register

The Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, a noted Hindu scripture, and the Natyashastra, an Indian treatise on performing arts, have been included in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register on April 17, 2025. This recognition highlights their exceptional universal value and profound impact on human civilization.

The Bhagavad Gita, a sacred dialogue between Lord Krishna and Arjuna, is a cornerstone of India’s spiritual and philosophical traditions. Comprising 700 verses, it addresses profound questions about duty, selflessness, and devotion, synthesizing elements from Vedic, Buddhist, Jain, and Carvaka traditions. Its teachings have inspired countless individuals and scholars worldwide.

The Natyashastra, attributed to the sage Bharat Muni, is a foundational treatise on Indian performing arts, encompassing theatre, dance, and music. It has shaped classical art traditions for centuries and remains a guiding text for artists and scholars. Its insights into aesthetics and performance continue to influence the global artistic community.

With this addition, India now has 14 entries in the prestigious Memory of the World Register.  

India’s Haj Quota Rises to 1.75 Lakh in 2025, Over 1.22 Lakh Pilgrims Under Main Quota

India’s Haj quota has increased from 1.36 lakh in 2014 to 1.75 lakh in 2025, according to the Ministry of Minority Affairs. In a post on 15 April 2025, the Ministry stated that it is coordinating arrangements for over 1.22 lakh pilgrims this year through the Haj Committee of India under the main quota.

All preparations, including flights, transport, Mina camps, accommodation, and services, have been completed following Saudi Arabian guidelines. The remaining quota has been allocated to private tour operators, and in accordance with new Saudi regulations, over 800 operators have been merged into 26 Combined Haj Group Operators and assigned quotas in advance.

Mahavir Jayanti 2025 – Celebrating the Birth of Lord Mahavir

Mahavir Jayanti is one of the most important religious festivals in Jainism. It celebrates the birth of Lord Mahavir, the 24th and last Tirthankara (spiritual teacher) of Jainism. In 2025, Mahavir Jayanti was celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm on Sunday, April 10. On this day, Jains across the world pay homage to Lord Mahavir’s teachings of non-violence, truth, and simplicity.

Who Was Lord Mahavir?

Lord Mahavir was born in 599 BCE in Kundagrama, near Vaishali (in present-day Bihar, India). Born to King Siddhartha and Queen Trishala, he renounced his royal life at the age of 30 and embarked on a spiritual journey. After 12 years of intense meditation and penance, he attained Keval Gyan (absolute knowledge) and spent the rest of his life spreading the message of Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truth), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy), and Aparigraha (non-possession).

Manoj Kumar passed away at the age of 87

Veteran actor and director Manoj Kumar passed away in Mumbai on April 4, 2025, at the age of 87. Widely known as ‘Bharat Kumar’ for his iconic patriotic roles, he was honored with the Padma Shri and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for his significant contributions to Indian cinema.

Born as Harikrishna Giri Goswami, he redefined patriotism in Bollywood through classics like Upkar (1967), Purab Aur Paschim (1970), and Kranti (1981). His powerful screen presence and memorable performances made him a legend. Other popular films include Patthar Ke Sanam, Shor, Sanyasi, and Roti Kapda Aur Makan.

Vikram Samvat: The Hindu New Year 2025

Vikram Samvat, one of the traditional Hindu lunar calendars, marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year. In 2025, the Vikram Samvat New Year celebrated on March 30th, ushering in the year 2082. This calendar, widely followed in North and Western India, holds deep cultural, religious, and historical significance.

Origin and History

The Vikram Samvat era is believed to have been established by the legendary king Vikramaditya of Ujjain after his victory over the Shakas in 57 BCE. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, which follows the solar cycle, Vikram Samvat is a lunisolar calendar, aligning months with the moon’s phases while adjusting with the solar year.

How is the Hindu New Year Celebrated?

The Hindu New Year, also known as Nav Varsh or Chaitra Shukla Pratipada, is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India, especially in states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh. Key traditions include:

  1. Religious Observances – Devotees visit temples, offer prayers, and seek blessings for prosperity.
  2. Gudi Padwa (Maharashtra) – Homes are decorated with Gudis (a bamboo stick with a bright cloth and neem leaves).
  3. Ugadi (Andhra Pradesh & Karnataka) – People prepare Ugadi Pachadi, a special dish symbolizing life’s different flavors.
  4. Navreh (Kashmir) – Kashmiri Hindus celebrate with rituals and traditional feasts.
  5. Baisakhi (Punjab) – Marks the harvest festival and the Sikh New Year.

Astrological Significance

The Hindu New Year begins with the Chaitra month (March-April) and is considered auspicious for new ventures. Astrologers analyze the Panchang (Hindu almanac) to determine favorable timings (Muhurats) for important activities.

Vikram Samvat 2082: What to Expect

According to Hindu astrology, the year 2082 will be governed by Jupiter (Brihaspati), bringing opportunities for growth, wisdom, and spiritual progress. Key festivals like Diwali, Holi, and Raksha Bandhan will be observed based on this calendar.

Eid-ul-Fitr: Celebrating the End of Ramzan on 31 March

Eid-ul-Fitr, one of the most significant festivals in Islam, is a day of joy, gratitude, and togetherness, marking the end of the holy month of Ramzan. This year, in India, the festival is being celebrated on 31 March 2025 with great fervor and enthusiasm.

Ramzan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a time of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims around the world. Observing the fast during Ramzan, known as sawm, is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It is a month of spiritual discipline, self-restraint, and heightened devotion, culminating in the celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr.

On this special day, families and communities come together to offer the special Eid prayer, known as Salat al-Eid, at mosques or open prayer grounds. The day begins with the giving of Zakat al-Fitr or Fitrana, a charitable act to support the less fortunate, ensuring that everyone can partake in the celebrations. This act highlights the essence of compassion and generosity that is central to Eid-ul-Fitr.

Eid-ul-Fitr is also synonymous with feasting and sharing. Homes are adorned, and tables are filled with delicious traditional dishes such as sheer khurma (a sweet vermicelli dessert), biryani, kebabs, and other regional delicacies. It is a time to exchange greetings of “Eid Mubarak,” visit relatives and friends, and strengthen bonds of love and unity.

Parsi New Year, Navroz 2025 : Celebrated on March 20

The Parsi New Year, also known as Navroz or Nowruz, is observed on March 20, coinciding with the spring equinox, a time when day and night are of equal length. This ancient festival has its roots in Zoroastrianism, one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions, founded by Prophet Zoroaster in ancient Persia (modern-day Iran).

History and Significance

Navroz, meaning “new day” in Persian, has been celebrated for over 3,000 years. It marks the beginning of the Persian calendar and symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, as well as the renewal of nature. The festival is named Jamshedi Navroz in honor of King Jamshed, who is credited with introducing the Parsi calendar.

The Parsi community in India, which migrated from Persia during the Islamic invasion in the 7th century, has preserved this tradition with great fervor. Navroz is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, highlighting its cultural and historical importance.

Char Dham Yatra 2025: The Sacred Journey Begins on April 30

The Char Dham Yatra is a revered pilgrimage in India, encompassing visits to four sacred shrines in Uttarakhand: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. These sites are nestled in the Himalayas and hold immense spiritual significance in Hinduism. The journey is believed to cleanse the soul and pave the way for salvation. The Yatra traditionally begins at Yamunotri, followed by Gangotri, Kedarnath, and concludes at Badrinath.

Registration for Char Dham Yatra

To participate in the Yatra, registration is mandatory. Here’s how you can register:

Online Registration:

  • Visit the official website: registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in.
  • Create an account and provide your personal details, including a valid ID proof (Aadhaar, Passport, etc.).
  • Select your preferred dates and complete the process by downloading your e-pass.

Offline Registration:

  • Visit designated counters in cities like Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun.
  • Provide your documents and receive a QR code or registration letter.

The Yatra begins with the opening of the Gangotri and Yamunotri Dhams on April 30, followed by Kedarnath on May 2 and Badrinath on May 4.

Holi 2025: India Drenched in Colors, Joy, and Unity!

The festival of colors, Holi, was celebrated with immense enthusiasm across India on 14 March 2025. Streets were filled with vibrant hues, people danced to festive beats, and traditional sweets added to the joy of the occasion.

🌸 Highlights from Across India:

🔹 Uttar Pradesh: From Braj Mandal to Ayodhya Dham, Holi was celebrated with grandeur. CM Yogi Adityanath, while flagging off the Bhagwan Nrisinh Vishwa Yatra in Gorakhpur, emphasized that festivals should symbolize harmony, peace, and equality.

🔹 Unity in Diversity: People from all communities—Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs—joined the celebrations, applying colors, dancing together, and sharing sweets, showcasing India’s cultural harmony.

🔹 Security Forces Join the Festivities: The Army, BSF, and CRPF personnel celebrated Holi even at forward locations, adding warmth and joy to the occasion.

Sahityaotsav 2025: Asia’s Largest Literature Festival Begins in New Delhi

Sahitya Akademi is hosting its annual Festival of Letters, Sahityaotsav 2025, from March 7 to 12 at Rabindra Bhavan, New Delhi. This six-day literary extravaganza, inaugurated by Union Minister for Culture, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, is Asia’s largest literature festival.

With over 700 writers from across India, representing more than 50 languages, the festival promises to be a grand celebration of literature. The prestigious Sahitya Akademi Awards will be conferred in 23 languages, recognizing outstanding literary contributions.

Themed “Indian Literary Traditions,” Sahityaotsav 2025 will host nearly 120 sessions, featuring young writers, women writers, North-East and tribal writers, LGBTQ writers, poets, translators, publishers, and distinguished personalities. Attendees can experience insightful discussions, readings, and presentations by renowned authors, poets, critics, and scholars.

Open to all literature enthusiasts, the Festival of Letters is a must-visit for those passionate about India’s rich literary heritage. Entry is free, making it an inclusive platform to explore diverse literary voices and celebrate the power of words.

Ramadan Begins in India on 2 March 2025

Ramadan commenced in India on Sunday, 2 March 2025, as Muslims across the country began their first day of fasting. The month-long observance started in various other nations as well, following the sighting of the crescent moon.

On Saturday, Maulana Mufti Mukarram Ahmed, the Shahi Imam of Fatehpuri Mosque, along with religious organizations, announced the official start of Ramadan. Due to poor weather conditions, the crescent moon was not visible on Saturday, making Sunday the first fasting day.

Ramadan is observed as a month of fasting from dawn to sunset, concluding with Eid-ul-Fitr. Muslims also participate in special nightly prayers, Tarawih, during which the entire Quran is recited over the month. The fasting period ends with the sighting of the Eid moon, marking the beginning of festivities.

India International Dance and Music Festival held from 22 to 27 February 2025, in New Delhi

The 10th edition of the India International Dance and Music Festival, themed “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (The World is One Family), was held from February 22 to February 27, 2025, in New Delhi. It was organized by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) in collaboration with the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) at Baansera Park on the banks of the Yamuna River.

The festival showcased a diverse array of dance and music performances from artists around the world. Participants from countries including India, Russia, Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan, Fiji, Malaysia, Maldives, Vietnam, South Africa, and Rwanda highlighted their rich cultural heritage, promoting cross-cultural understanding and artistic collaboration.

The theme, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” emphasized global unity and harmony. The event also marked the ecological revival of the Yamuna floodplain, symbolizing the confluence of culture and nature. With thousands of attendees, the festival was a resounding success, embodying the spirit of global togetherness and cultural exchange.

Mahakumbh 2025 Culminating on Mahashivratri (26 February 2025)

The Mahakumbh, a grand spiritual gathering that takes place once every 12 years, culminated on the auspicious day of Mahashivratri, February 26, 2025. This 45-day event, which began on January 13 (Paush Purnima), saw millions of devotees from across India and beyond converge at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj.

Mahashivratri, a significant day in Hinduism, commemorates the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It holds special importance in the context of the Kumbh Mela, as it is believed that bathing in the holy waters on this day cleanses one of past sins and paves the way for spiritual liberation.

The Mahakumbh 2025 witnessed a record-breaking turnout, with over 64 crore pilgrims participating in the event. The final day saw a massive influx of devotees, with over 41.11 lakh people taking a holy dip at the Sangam by 6 am. The event featured grand processions of Naga Sadhus and three ‘Amrit Snans’ (holy baths), adding to the religious fervor.

Despite the grandeur, the Mahakumbh 2025 was also marked by unfortunate incidents, including a deadly stampede on January 29 that claimed 30 lives and injured over 60 people. Several fire incidents and road accidents also occurred as pilgrims traveled to and from the Kumbh.

As the Mahakumbh concluded on Mahashivratri, devotees bid farewell to this historic event, carrying with them blessings, memories, and the hope of returning to the next great gathering.

Mahakumbh in Prayagraj Sets World Record with Over 50 Crore Participants

The Mahakumbh in Prayagraj has made history by becoming the first event in the world where more than 50 crore (500 million) people have participated directly. This incredible milestone was achieved on 14 February 2025, during the ongoing Maha Kumbh, which started on January 13, 2025, and will continue until February 26, 2025.

The Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers, has seen an unprecedented number of devotees taking a holy dip. This figure surpasses the combined population of many countries, including the United States and Russia. The Uttar Pradesh government has highlighted this as the largest congregation in human history for any religious, cultural, or social event.

Despite challenges such as a deadly stampede on January 29, the fair has continued to attract millions of pilgrims from India and around the world daily. The event has not only showcased the deep-rooted faith of the devotees but also the remarkable organizational efforts of the authorities involved.

38th Surajkund International Crafts Fair from 7 to 23 February 2025 in Faridabad

The 38th Surajkund International Crafts Fair in Faridabad began on February 7, 2025, and runs until February 23, 2025. This significant event features over 2,500 artisans from India and abroad, with more than 1,250 huts showcasing a variety of crafts.

The fair, inaugurated by Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, supports the vision of ‘Ek Bharat-Shreshtha Bharat’ and the Orange Economy. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of handicrafts, textiles, live cultural performances, and diverse cuisines. The fair highlights theme states Madhya Pradesh and Odisha, and includes participation from BIMSTEC nations. It’s a celebration of India’s unity, culture, and artistic legacy.

Third Amrit Snan Held on Basant Panchami in Mahakumbh, Prayagraj

Over 2.33 crore devotees took a holy dip in the Sangam during the third Amrit Snan on the occasion of Basant Panchami in Mahakumbh, Prayagraj on 2 Feb 2025. The Amrit Snan is the most significant and sacred ritual of the Maha Kumbh Mela. The first two Amrit Snans took place on Makar Sankranti and Mauni Amavasya.

The third Amrit Snan in Mahakumbh concluded smoothly as the state government adopted a zero-error approach. The Amrit Snan commenced with Saints and seers of 13 Akharas followed by the devotees. Flower petals were showered on saints and devotees taking a holy dip at Triveni Sangam. To avoid chaos, separate pathways were used for entry and exit to safeguard the flow of devotees. The security of the Mela area was monitored through drones, helicopters and CCTV cameras. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath regularly monitored the security situation at the war room set up at his residence, taking continuous updates from the DGP and Home Secretary and giving them instructions for the smooth conduct of the Amrit Snan. The Maha Kumbh Mela, recognized as the world’s largest spiritual gathering, commenced on 13th January and over 37 crore devotees have taken holy dips so far.

Q.: On which occasion was the third Amrit Snan held in Mahakumbh, Prayagraj on February 2, 2025?

a) Makar Sankranti
b) Basant Panchami
c) Mauni Amavasya
d) Holi

Ans: b) Basant Panchami
Over 2.33 crore devotees took a holy dip in the Sangam during the third Amrit Snan on the occasion of Basant Panchami in Mahakumbh, Prayagraj on 2 Feb 2025.

King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck Takes Holy Dip at Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj

King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck of Bhutan visited Prayagraj on February 4, 2025 to participate in the Maha Kumbh. During his visit, he took a sacred dip at the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. This significant event was attended by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who welcomed the King and participated in the rituals alongside him.

The King’s visit highlights the strong cultural and diplomatic ties between India and Bhutan. After the holy dip, both the King and the Chief Minister offered prayers and performed the Aarti amid the chanting of Vedic hymns. The event was attended by several dignitaries and devotees, emphasizing the global significance of the Maha Kumbh.

The King’s participation in the Maha Kumbh reflects the spiritual and cultural importance of this grand religious gathering, which attracts millions of pilgrims and dignitaries from around the world.

Record Attendance and Unfortunate Incident Mark Mauni Amavasya at Kumbh Mela

On January 29, 2025, over seven crore devotees took a holy dip in the Sangam at Prayagraj during Mauni Amavasya. Following their dip in the Triveni Sangam, devotees performed rituals and offered prayers. The Maha Kumbh Mela, which began on January 13, has seen more than 26 crore devotees take a holy dip so far.

Tragically, at least 30 people lost their lives, and 60 others were injured in an incident at Sangam Ghat in the early hours of January 29. DIG Kumbh Mela Vaibhav Krishna reported that the incident occurred when a large crowd gathered, leading to broken barricades. Swift rescue operations were carried out, including creating a green corridor for ambulances to transport the injured to hospitals.

Sanskriti ka Mahakumbh: A Grand Cultural Festival at Maha Kumbh Mela from January 16 to February 24, 2025

Sanskriti ka Mahakumbh is a grand cultural festival held during the Maha Kumbh Mela, from January 16 to February 24, 2025. It showcases India’s rich cultural heritage through performances by artists nationwide. Highlights include:

  • Classical singing by Prof. Ritwik Sanyal
  • Odissi dance by Bichtrananda Swain
  • Sitar recital by Kushal Das
  • Bhajans and light music performances by Shankar Mahadevan and Ravi Shankar

Traditional folk performances like Nautanki, Alha singing, and tribal folk dances will also be featured, highlighting India’s diverse cultural traditions. It’s a vibrant celebration of Indian culture, drawing thousands of spectators to witness and participate in these performances.

Makar Sankranti: A Tribute to Sun’s Transition

Makar Sankranti is a vibrant Hindu festival celebrated across India, marking the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara). This festival, typically falling on January 14th, symbolizes the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days. It is a day filled with joyous activities such as kite flying, bonfires, and traditional sweets made from sesame seeds and jaggery.

In different regions, Makar Sankranti is known by various names like Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Uttarayan in Gujarat, and Lohri in Punjab. Each region has its unique customs and rituals, but the underlying theme remains the celebration of nature’s bounty and the Sun’s journey. This festival also holds agricultural significance, as it marks the harvesting season in many parts of India.

Maha Kumbh, the world’s largest spiritual and cultural gathering, began on 13 January 2025 in Prayagraj

The Maha Kumbh, the world’s largest spiritual and cultural gathering, began on 13 January 2025 in Prayagraj with the Amrit Snan on Paush Poornima.

Millions of devotees are taking holy dips at the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. This year’s event is significant due to a rare celestial alignment that occurs once in 144 years.

The Maha Kumbh will continue until Mahashivaratri on 26 February 2025. Nearly 50 lakh devotees took a dip yesterday, and many will observe the month-long tradition of Kalpvas until Magh Poornima.

21st Third Eye Asian Film Festival from January 10 to 16, 2025, in Mumbai and Thane

The 21st edition of the Third Eye Asian Film Festival will be held from January 10 to January 16, 2025, in Mumbai and Thane. The festival will showcase 61 films from various Asian countries, including China, Malaysia, and South Korea.

It will open with the award-winning Chinese film The Black Dog. Special highlights include a Country Focus on South Korea and a competition section for Marathi films.

Awards such as the Asian Cinema Culture Award to Javed Akhtar and the Satyajit Ray Memorial Award to Rafique Baghdadi will be presented. The festival aims to celebrate and promote the rich diversity of Asian cinema.

Bosnia’s “Balkan Blues” Earns UNESCO Recognition and Inclusion in National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage

UNESCO Recognition: Bosnia’s traditional love song, Sevdalinka, often referred to as the Balkan Blues, was recognized by UNESCO and included in its National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage on December 27, 2024.

Historical Significance: Sevdalinka dates back to the 16th century and is a blend of South Slavic oral poetry and Ottoman Empire music.

Cultural Preservation: Musicians like Enes Salman and Damir Imamovic have been instrumental in keeping the tradition alive and promoting it globally.

Modern Interpretations: Younger musicians have reinterpreted Sevdalinka, bringing it to global audiences and ensuring its continued relevance.

Custodians of Tradition: Ethnomusicologists like Zanin Berbic play a crucial role in preserving and promoting Sevdalinka through performances and education.

Pt. Swapan Choudhary Receives National Tansen Award 2023

The National Tansen Award and Raja Mansingh Tomar Award were given on 18 December 2024 during the Tansen Festival in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh.

National Tansen Award:

  • Recipient: Pt. Swapan Choudhary, a renowned tabla player from Kolkata, was honored with the National Tansen Samman for the year 2023.
  • Prize: The award includes an honorarium of five lakh rupees, a citation plaque, and a shawl-shriphal.
  • Significance: This award is the highest national music award in the field of Indian classical music, established by the Madhya Pradesh government.

Raja Mansingh Tomar Award:

  • Recipient: Sanand Nyas, an institution from Indore, was honored with the Raja Mansingh Tomar Samman for the year 2023.
  • Institution’s Contribution: Sanand Nyas has been active in the fields of classical music, drama, and cultural festivals in Indore for the last 35 years.

MCQs on National Tansen Award and Raja Mansingh Tomar Awards

Q.: Who was honored with the National Tansen Samman for the year 2023?

a) Pt. Hariprasad Chaurasia
b) Ustad Zakir Hussain
c) Pt. Swapan Choudhary
d) Amjad Ali Khan

Ans: c) Pt. Swapan Choudhary
Pt. Swapan Choudhary, a renowned tabla player from Kolkata, was honored with the National Tansen Samman for the year 2023.

Q.: Which institution was honored with the Raja Mansingh Tomar Samman for the year 2023?

a) Raga Nyas
b) Sanand Nyas
c) Saptak Nyas
d) Surana Nyas

Ans: b) Sanand Nyas
Recipient: Sanand Nyas, an institution from Indore, was honored with the Raja Mansingh Tomar Samman for the year 2023.

Gadhimai Mahotsav: World’s Largest Animal Sacrifice Festival

The Gadhimai Mahotsav, held every five years at the Gadhimai Temple in Nepal’s Madhesh Province, is the world’s largest animal sacrifice festival. Gadhimai Mahotsav, started on December 2 and concluded on December 15, 2024. Despite decades of criticism from animal rights activists and court bans in India and Nepal, the 2023-24 festival saw a record footfall of 2.5 crore people. The festival’s central rituals involve sacrificing animals like buffaloes, goats, and birds, preceded by a shamanic offering of five forest animals. Devotees believe the sacrifices fulfill wishes, often related to patriarchal traditions, such as blessings for male offspring.

Efforts to curb the practice have included court rulings restricting animal transport and banning public sacrifices, but enforcement is weak, and sacrifices now occur behind closed doors. Meat from sacrificed animals is auctioned and often exported, adding economic value. The festival generates significant revenue through tourism and local commerce, creating a financial incentive for its continuation. Political reluctance to intervene stems from the fear of offending religious sentiments, leaving NGOs and civil society groups struggling to balance opposition with respect for cultural traditions.

Legendary tabla maestro Zakir Hussain passed away at the age of 73 in the United States

Legendary tabla maestro Zakir Hussain passed away at the age of 73 in the United States on 15 December 2024 due to blood-pressure-related complications. Born on March 9, 1951, in Mumbai, he was the eldest son of tabla legend Allah Rakha.

With a career spanning six decades, Zakir Hussain won five Grammy Awards, including three at the 66th Grammy Awards in 2024. He acted in films such as ‘Saaz’ and ‘Heat and Dust’, with his latest film ‘Monkey Man’ released in 2024. His groundbreaking 1973 collaboration with John McLaughlin, L Shankar, and T.H. ‘Vikku’ Vinayakram fused Indian classical music with jazz, creating a new genre.

Zakir Hussain received numerous prestigious honors, including the Padma Shri in 1988, the Padma Bhushan in 2002, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2023.

Hornbill Festival in Kisama Heritage Village, Nagaland from December 1 to December 10.

The Hornbill Festival, also known as the Festival of Festivals, is an annual celebration held in the northeastern Indian state of Nagaland from December 1 to December 10. Organized by the Government of Nagaland, the festival showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Naga tribes and aims to promote inter-ethnic interaction and unity.

The festival takes place at the Kisama Heritage Village, located about 12 km from Kohima. It features a vibrant array of cultural displays, including traditional Naga dances, music, crafts, sports, food fairs, and religious ceremonies. Visitors can experience the unique customs, folklore, and traditions of the Naga people, making it a truly immersive cultural experience.

Key highlights of the Hornbill Festival include:

  • Traditional Naga Morungs: Exhibitions showcasing the traditional houses and cultural artifacts of the Naga tribes.
  • Cultural Performances: Colorful dances, songs, and music performances by various Naga tribes.
  • Crafts and Art: Display and sale of traditional Naga crafts, wood carvings, paintings, and sculptures.
  • Food Fairs: A variety of Naga cuisine, including traditional dishes and delicacies.
  • Sports and Games: Traditional Naga sports such as archery, wrestling, and indigenous games.
  • Music Festival: The Hornbill Music Festival, featuring performances by renowned artists from across India and abroad.

The Hornbill Festival is a celebration of Naga culture and heritage, providing a platform for the diverse ethnic groups of Nagaland to come together and share their traditions with visitors from around the world.

Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, from 6 to 8 December 2024

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, on 6 December 2024. The three-day festival celebrates the culture, crafts, and tourism of the eight North Eastern states—Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura—collectively known as Ashtalakshmi.

The event will feature:

  • 250+ artisans showcasing handicrafts, handlooms, and agri-horti products, including 34 GI-tagged items.
  • A Fashion Show, Design Conclave, and Buyer-Seller Meet to promote collaborations and economic growth.
  • A Rural Haat Bazaar with products from 320 farmers and artisans.

The Mahotsav aims to boost economic development in the North East, creating opportunities for artisans, weavers, and entrepreneurs.

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