Karam Festival: A Celebration of Nature and Youth

September 14, 2024

Primarily observed in central India, Karam is a harvest festival celebrated on the eleventh day of the full moon (Purnima) in the Hindu month of Bhado.

Celebration

It's a festival of nature, with people worshiping trees and praying for a good harvest.

Significance

Unmarried girls fast for 7-9 days, growing seedlings. On the festival day, they collect wood, fruits, and flowers to worship Karam Devta, the God of power, youth, and youthfulness.

Rituals

The Karam tree, often a sal tree, is considered sacred and symbolizes fertility and growth.

Symbolism

The festival is also a time for social gatherings, music, dance, and the exchange of gifts among friends and family.

Cultural Significance