Month of Saawan, a festival season for newly weds

Come monsoon, and its an invitation to hold religious and cultural festivals in north India.

Amritsar/Ludhiana, Aug. 3 : Come monsoon, and it's an invitation to hold religious and cultural festivals in north India.

The festival of "Tiyan" held in the "Monsoon" season, in the month of 'Saawan' (July-August) in Punjab, symbolizes the celebration of rain, life and love.

At Amritsar's 16th century built Durgiana Temple, the atmosphere turns charming, as newly weds, dress in variegated attires with flower ornaments, pray for the well-being and fulfilment of one's desires, be it a child, or good health and more.

They worship Laxmi, the goddess of wealth and Narayan, the preserver of the universe. 'Saawan' is also dedicated to Lord Shiva as devotees observe a fast on Mondays.

It may be tradition or devotion that brings such a large gathering on the occasion.

"The tradition flourishes as newly weds throng this temple to get the blessings of the God. Goddess Durga, known as Parvati also adorns herself with flowers. We are just following the custom," Savitri, a devotee said.

Swings from trees are decorated with flowers. It is the time womenfolk bedeck themselves for a festival which is very dear to their hearts.

It is when raindrops fall and the pleasant aroma of the wet soil rises, villages in Punjab start echoing lilting melodies heralding the advent of the monsoon.

From swings to applying Heena on hands and savouring delectable delicacies - it's a month of celebration.

The tradition is also very much followed by educational institutions where students participate with great enthusiasm, all for the sake of keeping the customs alive.

"As Western culture is leaving its impact, we are forgetting our folk dances like gidda. Such extravaganzas greatly benefit the students who come to know about their festivals and dance forms," said Seema, a teacher said.

The festival of Tiyan is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm at Guru Nanak Girls College in Ludhiana.

The girls dressed in variegated attires and flower ornaments enjoy themselves on swings and their gatherings culminate in the rhythmic, vigorous and vivacious dance gidda.

It is a custom and a tradition being followed through generations. By Karan Kapoor / Savinder Singh

ANI