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![]() The Maharashtrians are a vibrant, earthy people for whom life itself is a celebration. All festivals in Maharashtra are celebrated with abundant fervour and enthusiasm. The songs, music and dances that accompany almost every festive occasion add joy and excitement to the lives of the people from every walk of life. While holidays are celebrated under many different names and circumstances, their functions are essentially the same. They unite people, thus strenghtening the bonds of the family. Following is a list of the holidays (with a bit of history behind it) that Maharashtrians observe according to the Hindu Calendar. Raksha Bandhan: Festival to honour the Sea God Varuna. Brother & sister exchange gifts, sisters tie 'rakhis' or beautifully decorated threads on their brother's wrists. It signifies the brother's responsability of protecting his sister all her life. Narali Poornima:Narali Pournima is also observed on this day. The full moon day of the month of Shravana is celebrated with characteristic fervour in different parts of Maharashtra and is known variously as Narali Pournima, Shravani Pournima, Rakhi Pournima or Raksha Bandhan. 'Naral' 'Coconut' and Narali Pournima is thus called because offering of coconuts are made by people to the Sea-God on this day. This festival is a day of singing & dancing.
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