The 'Yellow' Harvest Festivals Of India

Faith Mysticism

oi-Anwesha

By Anwesha Barari

Friday, April 13, 2012, 16:45

You observe everyone wearing vibrant shades of yellow on Delhi streets and you realise, its Baisakhi. Now go in the diametrically opposite direction to the backwaters of Kerala; what you see are Vishu kanis laden with nature's yellow bounty being offered to Lord Krishna. The harvest festivals of India have a way of turning things to the colour of gold (basically yellow).

What Are Indian Harvest Festivals?

Indian Harvest festivals and Hindu rituals are isolated events that take place regionally. We do not talk about all these festivals in a unified voice but, the seed of thought behind each is the same. Welcoming the new year with the first harvests of the season. INCOMPLETE SENTENCE.

Spiritual Significance Of Yellow Colour:

Yellow signifies purity and asceticism in Hinduism just like white does for Western cultures. Yellow ranging from saffron to orange was the chosen colour for our ancient sages. It is a colour that has the power to purify our bodies and minds. Applying 'Haldi' is a Hindu ritual in weddings that implies the use of this concept. Turmeric paste that is yellow in colour is applied on the bride's and groom's face and body to purify them for the marriage rituals.

The Practical Symbolism Of Yellow:

Apart from a spiritual meaning, the colour yellow also has a practical purpose of symbolism.

1. Ripe Crops: Yellow is the colour of the ripe crops and that connects it to the Indian harvest festivals. A field teaming with yellow corn is an image we all cherish. What is a better way to celebrate and worship the bountifulness of our earth?

2. Golden Colour: Yellow is also the colour of gold and gold holds a unique position in the Indian culture. India is the largest gold buying country in the world. This cultural bias comes from the fact that gold is considered as an auspicious and fertile metal.

3. Baisakh: Yellow is the colour of spring. Indian harvest festivals basically celebrate the month of Baisakh which is the first month of the lunar calendar. It is associated with the new beginnings and the harvest season.

4. Yellow Fruits: If you see a Vishu kani uruli, you'll notice that most of the season's fresh fruits are yellow. Mangoes, jackfruit, bananas and so on. Kanikonna, the special flower for the occasion is also yellow in colour.

India being an originally agrarian society draws all its festivals from the cycle of sowing and harvesting crops. With urbanisation, these festivals have become mere symbolism. But, the essence behind the symbol lies just below the surface.