Malayalam Date Calendar 2024
As we step into the year 2023, it’s time to prepare for the upcoming festivals and events in Malayalam Date Calendar 2024. Being a native of Kerala, I have always been fascinated by the unique culture and traditions of this state. The Malayalam Date Calendar plays a significant role in shaping the lifestyle of people here, and it’s essential to understand its significance.
What is Malayalam Date Calendar 2024?
The Malayalam Date Calendar is a lunar calendar used in the Indian state of Kerala. This calendar follows the cycles of the moon and is different from the Gregorian calendar used in the rest of India. The Malayalam Calendar is also known as the Kollavarsham, which means ‘the era of Kollam.’ The calendar begins with the month of Chingam, which usually falls in mid-August.
Events and Festivals in Malayalam Date Calendar 2024
Malayalam Date Calendar 2024 is filled with a plethora of festivals and events that hold immense cultural and religious significance. Here’s a list of some of the major festivals to look forward to:
- Onam – August 21, 2024
- Navaratri – October 1-10, 2024
- Durga Puja – October 4-8, 2024
- Diwali – October 24, 2024
- Christmas – December 25, 2024
Onam
Onam is the most important festival in Kerala and is celebrated with great pomp and show. It’s a ten-day festival that marks the homecoming of King Mahabali, who is believed to visit his subjects during this time. People decorate their houses with flowers, make pookalam (floral rangoli), and prepare a grand feast called Onam Sadhya. The highlight of the festival is the traditional dance form called Thiruvathira Kali.
Navaratri and Durga Puja
Navaratri and Durga Puja are celebrated across India, but the way it’s observed in Kerala is unique. During these nine days, people worship the nine forms of Goddess Durga and observe fasting. The last three days, known as Durgotsav, are marked by grand celebrations, where people dress up in new clothes, visit pandals, and offer prayers to the Goddess.
Diwali
Diwali is known as the festival of lights and is celebrated with much enthusiasm in Kerala. People light diyas (earthen lamps) and decorate their houses with colorful lights and rangolis. They also burst firecrackers and distribute sweets among family and friends.
Christmas
Christmas is celebrated with equal zeal in Kerala, and people decorate their houses with stars and lights. The midnight mass on Christmas Eve is a significant event, and people attend it dressed in new clothes. The highlight of the festival is the grand feast called Christmas Sadhya, where people prepare a variety of dishes.
FAQs
1. How is Malayalam Date Calendar different from the Gregorian Calendar?
The Malayalam Date Calendar is a lunar calendar, whereas the Gregorian calendar is a solar calendar. The Malayalam calendar follows the cycles of the moon, whereas the Gregorian calendar is based on the movement of the earth around the sun.
2. What is the significance of Onam festival?
Onam festival marks the homecoming of King Mahabali, who is believed to visit his subjects during this time. The festival is celebrated with much pomp and show, and people decorate their houses with flowers, prepare a grand feast, and perform traditional dance forms.
3. How is Navaratri and Durga Puja celebrated in Kerala?
During Navaratri and Durga Puja, people in Kerala observe fasting and worship the nine forms of Goddess Durga. The last three days, known as Durgotsav, are marked by grand celebrations, where people dress up in new clothes, visit pandals, and offer prayers to the Goddess.
4. What is the significance of Christmas in Kerala?
Christmas is celebrated with equal zeal in Kerala, and people attend the midnight mass on Christmas Eve dressed in new clothes. The highlight of the festival is the grand feast called Christmas Sadhya, where people prepare a variety of dishes.
In conclusion, the Malayalam Date Calendar 2024 is filled with a range of festivals and events that bring people together to celebrate their culture and traditions. By understanding the significance of these festivals, we can appreciate the rich heritage of Kerala and pass on the traditions to future generations.