Answer the following questions:
1. Why and when do we celebrate Independence Day?
2. Name the different ways in which Navratri is celebrated.
3. When do Muslims celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr?
4. Name two festivals celebrated on the birthdays of religious leaders.
Answer (2)
Ⅰ. Answer the following questions:
(1) Why and when do we celebrate Independence Day? Independence Day is celebrated to mark the anniversary of a nation's independence from foreign rule. In the United States, Independence Day is observed on July 4th each year. This date commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, when the thirteen American colonies declared themselves free from British rule. Celebrations often include fireworks, parades, concerts, and various public and private events honoring the country's history and traditions.
(2) Name the different ways in which Navratri is celebrated. Navratri is a Hindu festival celebrated with great devotion and energy across India and by Indian communities around the world. It usually lasts for nine nights. Different regions have unique traditions:
In Gujarat and Maharashtra, people celebrate with traditional dances like Garba and Dandiya Raas.
In West Bengal, Navratri overlaps with the worship of Goddess Durga as Durga Puja, featuring elaborate decorations and rituals.
In northern India, it culminates with Dussehra, marking the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana.
Fasting and prayer are widespread practices, with some regions observing fasts throughout the festival.
(3) When do Muslims celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr? Eid-ul-Fitr is celebrated by Muslims worldwide at the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. It marks the first day of the month of Shawwal on the Islamic lunar calendar. The exact date varies each year, as it depends on the sighting of the new moon. Eid-ul-Fitr is a day of joy and gratitude, where Muslims come together for communal prayers, give charity (Zakat al-Fitr), enjoy festive meals, and exchange gifts.
(4) Name two festivals celebrated on the birthdays of religious leaders. Two notable festivals celebrated on the birthdays of religious leaders include:
Buddha Purnima : Celebrated as the birthday of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. It falls on a full moon day, usually in April or May, and is observed with prayers, meditation, and acts of kindness.
Guru Nanak Jayanti : Marks the birth of Guru Nanak, the first Sikh Guru. It generally falls in October or November, and Sikhs celebrate it with processions, singing hymns, and sharing community meals (Langar).
Independence Day is celebrated on July 4th in the U.S. to honor the country's declaration of freedom. Navratri involves various regional celebrations in India, while Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated worldwide. Festivals like Buddha Purnima and Guru Nanak Jayanti are celebrated in honor of the birthdays of important religious leaders.
;
