Hindu Festivals and Sacred Days

by Harshananda

The approach to the subject attempted here in this book is both theoretical and practical. On the theoretical side it tries to give a brief history of the festivals their meaning and symbology. On the practical side it deals with the know-how connected with the conduct of those festivals. A list of some vratas commonly observed with brief descriptions given in chapter 6 it is hoped will enhance the value of the work. The epilogue contains some reflections and suggestions for the organizers of these festivals in public. The appendix will be especially useful to the devotees of the Ramakrishna tradition.

Genres: Hinduism

110 pages, Hardcover

First published May 1, 1994

Reviews

[Ashish Iyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book gives you understanding of why we should have vrata and rituals in festivals. Festivals are the essence of Sanatan Dharma. Its important to understand the reasons behind festivals and sacred days. Thanks to my friend for recommending me this book. Another amazing book written by Swami Harshananda. Its always good to read Ramakrishna Math books. Books like this doesn't go in details and keep you engaged. And common reader can read and easily understand it.

[Nabha Kulkarni · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an excellent book on the meaning and significance of various Hindu festivals. I am reducing a star only because I feel that there were moments where the other religions were subtly put down. However, the lesson of the book is clear: we have to celebrate the festivals in appropriate and respectable ways, and I agree 100%.

[Ritumbhara Ashish Iyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

As said in the book, festivals and sacred days are a very important,even an integral part of the Hindu religion and it is very important to understand and appreciate the spirit and meaning behind the observance of these festivals and sacred days.

So deep and profound are the reasons behind every ritual and vrata undertaken during our festivals. As much as we enjoy celebrating the festivals,it would be awesome if we do so by knowing their significance.

In this book, Swami Harshananda gives an account on different types of vratas, the vratas and rituals to be followed during major hindu festivals like Diwali,Rama navami,Krishna janmashtami,Shiva ratri and various other important Utsavs.He also describes the significance behind these rituals.

[Chandan · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book starts of well speaking about what makes up religion and differentiating between spirituality, mythology and rituals. Unfortunately it quickly turns into a commentary of how each vrata or festival must be followed, almost like a user manual.