Book Reviewed: Hindu Fasts & Festivals, by Swami Sivananda

Book Reviewed: Hindu Fasts & Festivals, by Swami Sivananda

Swami Sivananda’s introduction to Hindu festivals

This is an introductory book on Hindu fasts and festivals by one of the most revered Vedantins, Swami Sivananda. The relevance and the practices of 13 festivals, nine jayanthis (birthdays) and six vows (vrata) are briefly described. Many Hindu practices originate from Puranas, but the story behind the celebration comes mainly from the two epics, Ramayana and Mahabharata, and numerous Puranas. This book is introductory in nature but serves the interests of both practicing and non-practicing Hindus. For more in-depth study one need to read the relevant Purana.

The major festivals included in this book are; Diwali (Deepavali), Navaratri (Durga Puja), Holi, and Makara Sankranti. Diwali is a celebration with rows of lights (diya), which occurs on the last two days of dark half of Kartik Purnima (October/November). Narak Chaturdasi is observed on the 14th day and Diwali on the 15th day. The origin of this festival is attributed to the following; the celebration of the marriage of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu; it also commemorates the triumphant return of Rama to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana; and to celebrate the killing of demon king Naraksura by Lord Krishna. In Bengal, it is celebrated by worshipping Goddess Kali (Kali Puja). The fireworks symbolize the killing of Narakasura. The oil bath on the morning of Diwali is regarded as purifying as taking a bath in the holy River Ganga. On the day of Diwali, everyone gets up early, a tradition sages started to instill discipline and spiritual advancement. Vaishnavas celebrate with Govardhan Puja and feed the poor.