Sarhul Festival

Sarhul Festival is an important occasion for the Adivasi communities, primarily in the Chhotanagpur region of Jharkhand.

  • The festival took place on April 1, 2025, marking the onset of spring and the beginning of the new year.
  • It honours the Sal tree, seen as the dwelling of Sarna Maa, the village deity.
  • Sarhul symbolises the crucial union of the Sun and Earth, which are fundamental to life.
  • The festival holds profound cultural, ecological, and political importance, particularly in affirming Adivasi identity and rights.

 

Pondicherry Heritage Festival

  • The 11th edition of the Pondicherry Heritage Festival commenced on Easwaran Koil Street, towards Anna Salai, in Puducherry's Tamil Quarter.
  • The vibrant 'Veedhi Vilayattu' or Street Games drew more than 250 children and countless residents, kickstarting the festival.
  • The festival is a celebration of the city's cultural heritage and history and features traditional games such as Pallanguzhi, Pambaram, Dhayam, and Pacha Kuthirai.
  • Co-hosted by People for Pondicherry’s Heritage and PondyCAN, the festival successfully engaged the community.

 

Madhavpur Mela

  • The Madhavpur Mela, a cultural and religious festival, was inaugurated by Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel on April 6, 2025, during Ram Navami.
  • The festival commemorates the divine union of Lord Krishna and Rukmaniji and is held in Madhavpur, Porbandar.
  • Symbolizing unity and cultural harmony across regions of India, the Madhavpur Mela has grown in national significance since its elevation to a national event in 2018.
  • The event also attracts dignitaries like Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya.
  • During the 2025 inauguration, Chief Minister Patel launched new pilgrimage facilities at the Rukmani Temple, bolstering religious tourism and infrastructure development.