 Festivals of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, which is existent between Gujarat and Maharashtra are numerous, as the inhabitants of this Indian Union Territory observe all Indian festivals like 'Navaratri', 'Ganesh Chaturthi', 'Eid-E-Milad', 'Pateti' or Parsi New Year, 'Makar Sankranti' or Kite Festival, 'Nariyeli Poornima', Christmas, New Year and others. However, the festivals celebrated by the regional tribes of Dadra and Nagar Haveli can be termed as the extensions of the indigenous culture of the people of this area. Some of the most significant fairs and festivals of the local tribes involve the 'Akhatrij', 'Divasol', Diwali as 'Barash', Monsoon Magic Festival and Children's Film Festival, etc.
Barash Festival This festival is observed with great pomp and gaiety, particularly by the Kokna and Varli tribes of Dadra and Nagar Haveli. These tribes avoid consuming any foodstuffs cooked with home grown beans till this festival is celebrated. It is celebrated during September. 
Masimagam Festival The 'Masimagam' festival is celebrated with enthusiasm at Dadra and Nagar Haveli, on a full moon day of the 'Masi' month, which falls during February to March. During Masimagam festival, holy deities are bathed, as per the ceremonial bathing rituals. It is believed that sacred idols from over 64 temples are bathed in the sea. Villianur Temple Car Festival Celebrated during the middle of the month of May, Villianur Car Festival is a popular event in Dadra and Nagar Haveli. People usher the adorned car belonging to the Thirukameswarar Kokilambal Temple, in a grand procession, accompanied by innumerable devotees. The festival is dependent on the sighting of the full moon. Holi Festival Holi is celebrated with gusto by almost all the regional tribes of Dadra and Nagar Haveli. During this festival, a fair is hosted here, which continues for an entire week, based at 'Lawachha' and is also celebrated at Silvassa. Coloured water is thrown at each other during Holi. Raksha Bandhan Festival This festival is celebrated especially by Dhodia tribals and it is locally known as 'Divaso and Baleo' by the regional tribes who reside in this portion of the nation. During this great festival, people invoke the blessings of Goddess Kali, particularly in the villages of Silvassa, before and also after crops are harvested. Akhatrij Festival The womenfolk of the Kokna tribals are said to arrange this traditional festival of this part of the country. |
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