Festivals of Uttar Pradesh     

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Uttar Pradesh, the birthplace of the Indus Valley civilization is one of the most populated and diverse states of India. The spirituality and heritage has been able to entice the whole world. The state is filled with many religions and all the religions celebrate their festivals.

Community harmony is maintained and more than forty festivals are celebrated. The spirit of unity in diversity is clearly visible in the celebrations in Uttar Pradesh. Dance music, as in all states plays a very important role in the festivals of UP. Some of the main festivals of UP include:

1) Diwali- Diwali is the biggest Hindu festival, symbolizing victory of good over evil. Celebrated by Hindus all over the world, Uttar Pradesh celebrates the festival with much pomp.

2) Navratri- Navratri is one of the most important festivals in the state. The festival dedicated to the Goddess Durga, is celebrated over nine days and nights. Ramlila is a very common feature of the festival of Navratri. The tenth day is special and offering are made for Goddess.

3) Eid-ul-Adha – Known as the festival of Bakri-Id or Eid-ul Adha, the festival is one of the main festivals of Muslims. This time is seen as the perfect time to go to Mecca.