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BY YOGA VAISHNAV 6B In this lesson you will learn • About India • About the states in India. • varieties in different states. • About the clothes they were in different states. • The festivals in different states INDIA

• India, officially the Republic of India, is a country in . It is the 7th-largest sovereign state in the world, the second-most populous country (with over 1.2 billion people), and the most populous democracy in the world. • It is bounded by the Indian Ocean on the south, the Arabian Sea on the southwest, and the Bay of on the southeast. It shares land borders with to the west; China, , and Bhutan to the northeast; and (Burma) and to the east. • In the Indian Ocean, India is in the vicinity of Sri Lanka and the Maldives. India's Andaman and Nicobar Islands share a maritime border with and Indonesia. Its capital is New Delhi; other metropolises include , , Chennai, Ban galore, and Ahmedabad. MAP OF INDIA STATES IN INDIA 29 STATES

ANDHRA PRADHESH (The place of victory) is one of the 29 states in India, situated on the southeastern coast of the country. The state is the eight largest state in India covering an area of 160,205 km2 (61,855 sq mi). As per 2011 census of India, the state is tenth largest by population with 49,386,799 inhabitants. On 2 June 2014, the north- western portion of the state was bifurcated to form a new state of telangana. In accordance with the Andhra Pradesh reorganization act, 2014, Hyderabad will remain the capital of both Andhra Pradesh and telangana states for a period of time not exceeding 10 years. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN ANDHRA PRADESH There are so many varieties of food in Andhra Pradesh: 1) Ragi is popularly used in the Rayalaseema. 2) The uttarandhra is known for its use of , shallots and paste. 3) Pulihora, or along with green chilies is the most popular food in Andhra Pradesh 4) The vegetarian dishes consist of koora which include different in a variety of styles- with gravy, frying, with etc. 5) You have based delicious known as pappu and tamarind based, sour called pulusu. 6) The non vegetarian platter has a delightful mix of seafood ,meat and eggs cooked in fiery and always teamed with vegetables like . PEOPLE WEAR IN ANDHRA PRADESH Costumes of Andhra Pradesh are Saree and for women, and and for men. Andhra Pradesh is the insignia of the cultural convergence of . Andhra Pradesh costumes are very famous for and . However, the traditional of Andhra Pradesh still is the ethnic handloom sarees that are made at different places and are mostly famous by the names of these places. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN ANDHRA PRADESH Festivals celebrated in Andhra Pradesh are: • Makara in January. • in February/March. • or the Telugu in March/April. • Sri Navami celebrated in March/April 9 days after Ugadi. • Varalakshmi Vratam in August. • Vinayaka Chaviti in August. • Dasara in September/October. • Atla Tadde 3rd day in bright half of Aswiyuja month (falls in September/October in Gregorian calendar) • Deepavali in October/November. • Deepothsavam during the Deepavali . ARUNACHAL PRADESH

ARUNACHAL PRADHESH is one of the twenty- nine states of India. Located in north east India, it holds the most north-eastern position among the states in the north-east region of India. Arunachal Pradesh borders the states of and Nagaland to the south, and shares international borders with Bhutan in the west, Myanmar in the east and China in the north. Itanagar is the capital of the state. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN ARUNACHAL PRADESH There are a lot of varieties of food in Arunachal Pradesh. Some of them are: 1) The staple food is rice along with fish, meat and many green vegetables. Different varieties of rice are available. Lettuce is the most common and preferred of all, prepared by boiling it with , and green chilies and pinch of salt. Boiled rice cakes wrapped in leaves is a famous snack. 2) The Momos are also popular. Dishes in eastern districts like Tirap and Changlang have some different method in their way of food preparation. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN ARUNACHAL PRADESH Tribal wear in Arunachal Pradesh The Tangsa tribe, also, dwelling in the Tirap district and Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh, is a Naga tribe. These robust, middle-length people cater to the Burmese -style. The Tangsa men wear green , proficiently seamed in with matching yellow, red and white yarns. A sleeveless , acts as the upper garment. Tangsa women put in a very attractive looking woven petticoat, along with a blouse to it. Miji women, living in the West Kameng and East Kameng districts, exhibit simplicity as well as refinement in their costume. The ankle-long white gives the Miji women an immaculate look. And the final touch is given by an ornate red . Big-sized silver and resplendent , commonly decked with jade, perfectly augments the beauty. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN ARUNACHAL PRADESH Festivals celebrated In Arunachal Pradesh are: • Loku in 25th – 27th November • Boori in 4th – 6th February • Solung in 1st – 9th September • Dree Festival in 5th July • Nyokum in 28th February – 2nd March • Lossar Festival in 11th February • Sanken in 14th – 17th February ASSAM

ASSAM ( city of India) is a state in northeastern Located south of the eastern , Assam comprises the and the along with the karbi anglong and dima hasoe districts with an area of 30,285 sq mi (78,440 km2). Its capital is . VARIETIES OF FOOD IN ASSAM

There are lots of food items in Assam: some of them are: 1) The staple food of Assam is rice, which is consumed in a variety of ways. During special occasions like , a special type of rice preparation called is made. The different varieties of Pithas include Ghila , Til pitha, Sunga pitha, Tekeli pitha, Bhapotdiya pitha, Tora pitha, Kholasapori pitha & Xutuli pitha. 2) Vegetarian items Served in bell metal utensils called Kahor Thal, a typical Assamese comprises of steamed rice, taken with Khar anja (a dish made of raw ), a variety of Pitikas (mashed Potatoes, Brinjal or Tomatoes). 3) Among the non vegetarian items that form a part of the Assamese , the favorites are chicken, pigeon, duck and fish - the most popular varieties being Rohu, Hilsa, Puthi and Chital. Hukoti, a dish made of small . 4) The state of Assam is famous all over the world for its tea production. is known for its strong malty flavor and bright color. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN ASSAM

Costumes of Assam consist of the Muga or the golden silk fiber which has a huge demand in the global market. When an Assamese lady wraps herself in the extremely beautiful 'Mekhela Chadar' of golden 'Muga' variety then it is hard to pass by without casting a momentary look on her. Besides the 'Muga' variety there is the 'Eri' and the 'Paat' that is being used mostly in the making of clothes in Assam. The former is used to make winter garments especially called 'Eri Chadar' and the latter is used for the making of 'Mekhela Chadar.' The 'Muga' is the most important and the most preferred wild silk all over India and is the main cause behind the exquisiteness and elegance of the . The delicate designs, finely woven, on the saris cater to patterns in nature, for example, the flora and the fauna. Embroideries also incorporate, acquainted and culture-related things, such as architecture and stone- sculptures on the Madan Kamdev Temple in Assam. FESTIVALS CELEBTRATED IN ASSAM

Festivals celebrated in Assam are: • • Kati Bihu or Kangali Bihu • Magh Bihu or Bhogali Bihu • Ambubachi • Biswakarma Puja • Doljatra • Janmastami • Rasa Puja • Elephant Festival • Tea Festival

BIHAR (The silk city of India) is a state in East India East India. It is the 13th-largest state of India, with an area of 94,163 km2 (36,357 sq mi).its capital is . The third-largest state of India by population, it is contiguous with to its west, Nepal to the north, the northern part of Nepal to the east, with to the south. The Bihar plain is split by the river which flows from west to east VARIETIES OF FOOD IN BIHAR

• Bihari cuisine is predominantly vegetarian because traditional Bihar society, influenced by Buddhist and Hindu values of non-violence, did not eat eggs, chicken, fish and other animal products. • However, there is also a tradition of meat-eating, and fish dishes are especially common due to the number of rivers in Bihar, such as the Son, Gandak and Ganges. There are also numerous Bihari meat dishes, with chicken and mutton being the most common. • Dairy products are consumed frequently throughout the year, with common including known as dahi and also buttermilk known as mattha, ghee, lassi and butter. It is highly seasonal, with watery foods such as watermelon and Sherbet made of pulp of the wood-apple fruit. • Some dishes which Bihar is famous for include Bihari Kebab, Bihari Boti, Bihari Chicken Masala, Sattu Paratha, which are parathas stuffed with fried flour, chokha (spicy mashed potatoes), fish and', Postaa-dana kaa halwaa. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN BIHAR

Particularly, the rustic crowd of Bihar adheres to the traditional pattern of and . Though most of the population of the state still remains in rural areas the costumes worn by them are still traditional. The clothes for the people of different religions are a bit divergent. The senior male citizens of Bihar, irrespective of Hindu or Muslim, favour tradition, when it comes to costumes. If a Hindu elderly person prefers Dhoti (an Indian loin cloth), a Muslim person might dress himself in Lungi (a type of petticoat for men) or Pyjama (loose ). As an upper garment, men usually go for Kurta (loose, normally cotton, Indian, T-), and shirts. The costume of the women folk of Bihar is chosen carefully in keeping with tradition. As per tradition, married women, smear the hair- parting zone with powder of or vermillion. Tikli, a forehead-adorning little ornament is added to the hair-partitioning area. On the forehead, a Bihari married woman, be she an urban or a rural one, usually applies bindi. A lot of Bihari women, love applying Kajal i.e. eye-pencil, or antimony eye-make-up called Surma, to improve the appeal of their eyes. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN BIHAR

Festivals celebrated in Bihar are: • Chatth Puja • Sama-Chakeva • Ramnavami • Makar-Sankranti • Bihula • Madhushravani CHHATTISGARH

CHATTISGARH is a state in central India. It is the 10th largest state in India, with an area of 135,194 km2 (52,199 sq mi). With a population of 28 million, Chhattisgarh is the 17th most-populated state of the nation. It is a source of electricity and steel for India, accounting for 15% of the total steel produced in the country. Chhattisgarh is one of the fastest-developing states in India. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN CHHATTISGARH 1) The special delicacies like jalebis, rakhia badi and petha are the main appeals of Chhattisgarh Food. The people of the state have an inclination towards tangy recipes and sweet delectable's. Maize, wheat and jowar are the basic diet of the inhabitants of Chhattisgarh. 2) Chhattisgarh Recipes presents a veritable range of appetizing dishes. While some of the recipes of Chhattisgarh are made by the core tribal groups during their folk festivals, the other food items like sweet dishes of jalebis are prepared by almost all the inhabitants of the state. Petha and rakhia badi are the two popular delectable's of the tribes of Chhattisgarh. 3) Petha is a kind of exquisite sweet dish which is prepared by the Chhattisgarh tribes. Rakhia badi is a type of curry which includes rakhia phal or fruit, coriander, green chilies, ginger and seeds of slitted black gram. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN CHHATTISGARH In the urban areas, trousers and shirts, sarees and are worn by the men and the women respectively. The costumes worn here are just like those worn all over India. They have no characteristic features or specialties. Sarees in varieties like Maheshwari silk, Orissa silk, Chanderi silk, print sarees, etc. are worn by the women in the urban areas here. It is the tribal costumes of Chhattisgarh that endow the costumes of the state with a unique identity and arise interest among the tourists. The tribal men and women wear bright and colourful costumes. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN CHHATTISGARH Festivals celebrated in Chhattisgarh are: • Bastar Dassera • Teeja Festival • Champaran Mela • Hareli festival • Rajim GOA

GOA is a state in west India within the coastal region known as the konkan. Bounded by to the north and to the east and south, the Arabian sea forms its western coast. It is India's smallest state by area and the fourth smallest city by population. Goa is one of India's richest states with a GDP per capita two and a half times that of the country. It was ranked the best placed state by the Eleventh Finance Commission for its infrastructure and ranked on top for the best quality of life in India by the National Commission on Population based on the 12 Indicators. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN GOA

There are so many food in Goa like: 1) , , coconut, jaggery, cashew and an endless variety of seafood. A lot of Goan dishes like Prawn balchao and Sorpotel are well known and relished around the world. 2) Spices, fish and coconut have dominated Goan food for centuries and it's only in the last few years it has started to be featured with new, more innovative ingredients like fenni and vinegar. 3) Goans didn't take after their prominent use of in every dish, but definitely latched on to their flair for -making. You'll see that Goans often swap their regular bowl of steamed rice with soft and warm bread. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN GOA

The costumes of Goa show a colourful variety. In Goa, Portuguese influence is evident in men's and even women's western wears. There are a number of different costumes that are worn by the people of Goa during different occasions. The main costume for the women of Goa is the 9-yard , which they complement with traditional jewelry. Pano bhaju is another important traditional costume of the women of Goa. The Koli fishermen of Goa, who wear colourful shirts and half pants, and a made of bark of the bamboo trees, make for a wonderful sight. The people in the carnival wear many different types of colourful costumes and beautiful masks. This three-day festival is a melting pot of several cultures, and besides Portuguese influence, it has over the years, infused and got enriched by the traditional revelry of Hindu festivities. As such this animated pageantry showcases a wide variety of costumes. The most popular among the people are the off-shoulder dresses and colourful suits. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN GOA

Festivals celebrated in Goa are: • Christmas • • • Feast of St. Francis Xavier • Shigmo • Three Kings Feast • Eid-ul-Fitr • Carnival • Bonderam Festival

GUJARAT (Green city) Is a state in western India, sometimes referred to as the "Jewel of Western India". It has an area of 196,024 km2 (75,685 sq mi) with a coastline of 1,600 km (990 mi), most of which lies on the Kathiawar peninsula, and a population in excess of 60 million. The state is bordered by to the north, Maharashtra to the south, to the east, and the Arabian sea and the Pakistani province of to the west. Its is Gandhinagar, while its largest city is Ahmadabad. Gujarat is home to the Guajarati-speaking people of India. The state encompasses some sites of the ancient Indus valley civilization, such as lothal and dholavira. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN GUJARAT

Gujarati cuisine is one of the the oldest culinary treasures of India and is primarily vegetarian. It offers a wide variety of vegetarian dishes, each with its unique cooking style, different kinds of: 1) pickles, farsans, chutneys and foods that are always high on nutritional value. But the real essence of Gujarati food lies in the creative use of everyday vegetables and mild spices. It is an exquisite blend of flavors where sweet notes dominate most dishes like the famous . 2) Gujarat's coastal climate is mostly hot and dry which is why the use of sugar, tomatoes and lemon is quite common as these foods keep the body hydrated. 3) In big business houses, a traditional Gujarati meal sits on a lovely silver platter and comprises of an elaborate affair complete with rotis, dal/kadhi, sabzi or shaak, rice and homemade pickles to tickle your taste buds. 'Vaghaar' is a blend of spices purified in hot oil and generously drizzled over dal to enhance the flavor and impart an irresistible aroma. The prominence of ingredients like besan or gram flour, lentils, seeds and yogurt is another feature that sets Gujarati dishes apart. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN GUJARAT The traditional Gujarat dresses for women consist of the or the . These are colorfully embroidered and complemented by bare- backed extending to the . Ghagras or are gathered ankle-length that are fastened at the waist. The entire outfit is completed by a cloth called odhni or which is thrown across the neck or over the head. The lehenga choli, otherwise known as the ghagra choli. Gujarati men usually attire themselves in dhoti, long or short and . At present, however, pants are becoming more fashionable instead of the conventional dhoti. Parsi males wear pants, long coat and a . FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN GUJARAT

Festivals celebrated in Gujarat are: • Diwali • Kite Festival • • Janmashtami • Ganesh Chaturthi • Kutch Mahotsava • Modhera Dance Festival • Muharram

HARYANA (City Of Weavers) is one of the 29 states in India, situated in . It was carved out of the former state of east on 1 November 1966 on a linguistic basis. It stands 21st in terms of its area, which is spread about 44,2census of India 12 km2(17,070 sq mi). As of 2011 , the state is eighteenth largest by population with 25,353,081 inhabitants. The city of is its capital while the NCR city of Faribad is the most populous city of the state. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN HARYANA

Cuisine of any region is linked directly with its culture, simpler the culture simpler its food. Haryana have been retaining simplicity in its cuisine. 1) Here, varieties of Rotis are available, specially the most common types are rotis made from Wheat and Bajra. In earlier times, people preferred to have nutritious and healthy rotis made from a flour of wheat, gram and barley. But with the passage of time, prices increased and people started preferring comparatively cheaper wheat flour. 2) People here have a strong belief over home made butter and ghee , they use these liberally in their daily diet. In most of the homes,”nooni or tindi ghee” a homemade fresh butter is churned daily . As a part of their culture, girl’s family give her gifts of ghee (clarified butter), gondh (edible gum), (a sweetmeat made of gram flour) and dry fruits. as an instant cooler for summers, Lassi made from yoghurt is another popular drink, almost a meal in itself. 3) The Haryanvi’s love for lassi can be concluded from the fact that thandai, a sweet, milk based drink is called kachi lassi in Haryana. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN HARYANA Women love to wear colourful dresses. Their basic trousseau includes 'Damaan', 'Kurti' & 'Chunder'. 'Chunder' is the long, coloured piece of cloth, decorated with shiny laces, meant to cover the head and is drawn in the front like the 'pallav' of the saree. Kurti is a shirt like blouse, usually white in colour. The 'Daaman' is the flairy ankle-long , in striking colours. The men generally wear 'Dhoti', the around cloth, tucked in between the legs with a white-coloured kurta worn atop it. '' is the traditional headgear for men, which is now worn mainly by the old villagers. All-white attire is a status symbol for men. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN HARYANA

Festivals celebrated in Haryana are: • Baisakhi at Pinjore • Haryana Day • Kurukshetra Festival in Haryana • Mahabharata Festival in Haryana • Festival in Haryana • Pinjore heritage festival • Sohna Car Rally • Surajkund Crafts Mela HIMACHAL PRADESH

• HIMACHAL PRADHESH Is a state of India located in northern India. It is bordered by Jammu and on the north, Punjab and Chandigarh on the west, Haryana on the south-west, on the south-east and by the Tibet autonomous region on the east. The name was coined from him 'snow' and anchal 'lap', by Acharya Diwakar Datt Sharma, one of the province's most eminent Sanskrit scholars. • Himachal Pradesh is famous for its natural beauty, hill stations, and temples. Himachal Pradesh has been ranked fifteenth in the list of the highest per capita incomes of Indian states and union territories for year 2015-2016 VARIETIES OF FOOD IN HIMACHAL PRADESH lots of food in Himachal Pradesh are famous. Such as: 1) Since it is hard to find a variety of fresh vegetables on the hilly terrain of Himachal Pradesh, there are a lot of non-vegetarian dishes and the use of lentils, rice and pulses is common. Interestingly, the best quality of Basmati rice comes from this region – the foot of the Himalayas. 2) Regions in the north of Himachal Pradesh like Spiti and Lahaul are comparatively dry and therefore they use hardier local grains like buckwheat, barley and millets. A lot of their traditional dishes like Siddu, Aktori or Gulgule are cereal-based. 3) They also use a lot of yogurt as a base to most which adds a comforting depth along with buttermilk and desi ghee. The food is rich and spicy with a generous sprinkle of spices like , , and coriander powder. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN HIMACHAL PRADESH Hand-woven excellence is the hallmark of the costumes of Himachal Pradesh. The native women are famous in weaving . The utility made from grass, are perfect for keeping the feet warm. Costumes of Himachal Pradesh By heritage, the Dhoti-clad Brahmin priests roam around in Kurta, coat, , turban, i.e., Pagri, and with a hand towel, placed upon the shoulders and with a valuable copy of Panchang. women costumes of Himachal Pradesh The costume of the women hailing from the Brahmin and the clans are quite traditional. These women normally dress themselves in , Ghagra Lehenga Choli and "Rahide" which is a nice crimson decked with golden fringes. The farmers and worker classes required to toil, go for kurta, a and a cap. They provide to long pyjamas, for attending ceremonies like marriage ceremonies or special occasions, such as festival. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN HIMACHAL PRADESH Festivals celebrated in Himachal Pradesh are: • Halda festival – Welcome the New Year in January • Sazo • Himachal Winter Carnival • Festival • Doongri Festival, Kullu • Maha Shivaratri • Mandi Shivaratri Fair • Nalwari Fair • Baisakh/ • Spring Festival • Kullu Dussehra • International Himalayan Festival • Ice Skating Carnival JAMMU AND KASHMIR

JAMMU AND KASHMIR (City Of Lakes) is a state in northern India, often denoted by the acronym J&K. It is located mostly in the Himalayan mountains, and shares borders with the states of Himachal Pradesh and Punjab to the south. Jammu and Kashmir has an international border with china in the north and east. The state has special autonomy under article 370 of the constitution of India. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR Just like its picturesque beauty, the food in Kashmir is heavenly. The rich, redolent dishes steeped in traditions have evolved through many generations and are known to be a blend of three different cooking styles - that of Kashmiri Pandits, Muslims and Mughals. Some of the best food in jammu and kashmir are: 1) The ultimate ceremonial feast in Kashmir is known as 'Wazwan'and consists of mostly meat-based dishes. The word 'waz' means and 'wan' denotes an array of meat curries and other elaborate dishes. It's a princely 36- banquet, with about 15-34 dishes and is popularly referred to as a 'feast fit for kings'. Lamb meat highlights the menu with some of the popular dishes like Gushtaba, Rogan Josh, Rista, Tabak Maas, Dhaniwal Korma and Marchwangan Korma. 2) The liberal use of spices like cinnamon, cardamom and adds warmth and comfort to Kashmiri curries. Pungent notes feature in most dishes as Kashmiri's use a lot of . Kashmiri food also favors the generous use of desi ghee (clarified butter) which makes their food extremely rich. Curd is used as one of the primary ingredients in curries and as a marinade for kebabs to add depth in the flavors. The fragrance of spices like saffron and saunf sets Kashmiri apart. The famous Kashmiri red chilies are less pungent than the regular ones but can liven up any regular dish. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR Most of the garments are made of wool, silk and cotton designed with intricate embroideries. Costumes of Jammu and Kashmir for Men The traditional ‘’ is the most popular form of dress among both men and women. Pheran exhibits a lot of beautiful embroidery work comprising of floral motifs. Pheran: ‘Pheran’ is the most commonly worn garment among men. Hindu men usually wear ‘’ while the Muslim men are dressed in ‘Salwar’ beneath the formidable Pherans. Pheran is a loosely fitted woollen garment which makes use of the ‘Kangri’. The Kangri is usually placed in the front, skilfully shrouded by the Pheran. It functions as an internal heating system in order to keep the wearer warm during the extreme cold winters.

Costumes of Jammu and Kashmir for Women Pheran is the prominent attire for Kashmiri women as well. Traditionally, there are Poots and Pherans, comprising two that are placed atop the other. Pheran worn by women usually has embroidery on the hem line, around pockets and mostly on the collar area. Pherans worn by the Muslim women are traditionally characterised by their broad sleeves and reach up to the knees. However, the of Jammu and Kashmir wear their Pherans long, stretching up to their feet with narrowed down sleeves. Often, the Pherans are wrapped tightly by a piece of creased cloth called Lungi. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR Festivals celebrated in Jammu and Kashmir are: • Baisakhi • Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Azha • Hemis Festival • • Urs • Dussehra • Diwali • Vaishno Devi • On The Festive Trial JHARKHAND

JHARKHAND (Steel City Of India) is a state in eastern India carved out of the southern part of Bihar on 15 November 2000. The state shares its border with the states of Bihar to the north, Uttar Pradesh to the north- west, Chhattisgarh to the west, to the south, and to the east. It has an area of 79,710 km2 (30,778 sq mi). The city of Ranchi is its capital while the industrial city of Jamshedpur is the most populous city of the state. Jharkhand, which got its political dimension as a state, only in November 2000, has been previously the southern portion of Bihar. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN JHARKHAND

There are lot of foods in Jharkhand. Some of them are: Sattu is a common dish prepared with roasted chickpea flour that is prepared in various manners. A common food in Jharkhand is dhuska, which are deep fried pancakes that may be served with gram curry and . A popular meat dish includes meat salaan, which consists of lamb curry and diced potato that is spiced with garam masala. Spicy chicken is another common meat dish. Tilkut is a sweet prepared with "pounded sesame-seed cookies made with jaggery or melted sugar." Thekua is a sweet prepared with whole-meal flour, jaggery and ghee, the latter of which is a type of clarified butter. Thekua is prepared and consumed during the festival, which celebrates the Sun God. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN JHARKHAND Male costume of Jharkhand Men maintain their decency with only one piece of cloth, called Bhagwan. The major tribes of Santhal Pargana, for instance the Paharis and the Santhals follow a dress-code, unique in appearance. Side by side with the tribals, live the non-tribal people. These people envelop themselves in the traditional costume of Jharkhand, and almost the whole of India, dhoti, kurta- pajama and shirts. Men while featuring in ceremonies, adorn themselves in better quality and attractive-looking kurta, pajama and .

Female costume in Jharkhand Women cover themselves in sarees and blouses. Women, belonging to well-off families, or costume-crazy women, can hardly ignore the dazzle of the ethnic as well as awesome Tussar silk sarees, manufactured in Jharkhand. Tribal female's traditional attire is the Panchi and Parhan. Parhan, the lower garment is topped off by the upper Parhan. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN JHARKHAND Festivals celebrated in Jharkhand are: • Sarhul • Karam • Jawa • Tusu Parab or Makar • Hal Punhya • Bhagta Parab • Rohini • Bandna • Jani-Shikaar • Chhath Pooja KARNATAKA

KARNATAKA (space city) Is a state in south western region of India. It was formed on 1 November 1956, with the passage of the states reorganization act. Originally known as the state of Mysore , it was renamed Karnataka in 1973. The capital and largest city is Bangalore (Bengaluru). Karnataka is bordered by the Arabian sea and the laccidive sea to the west, Goa to the northwest, Maharashtra to the north, Telangana to the northeast, Andhra Pradesh to the east, to the southeast, and Kerala to the southwest. The state covers an area of 191,976 square kilometers (74,122 sq mi), or 5.83 percent of the total geographical area of India. It is the seventh largest Indian state by area. With 61,130,704 inhabitants at the 2011 census, Karnataka is the eight largest state by population, comprising 30 districts. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN KARNATAKA

Karnataka is Popularly known for its vast range of dosas, sambar and lip-smacking Udupi fare, there is so much more simmering in the local pots here that promise to delight the palate and tickle the taste buds. Some of them are: 1) A typical Kannadiga Oota (Kannadiga /meal) is a beautiful blend of different flavors. You have rice, sambar, fried dishes like bonda; pickle, dessert, ghee and many other gravy dishes such as saaru, kootu, huli, etc. 2) These are meticulously and dexterously served on a leaf along with some salt. According to food writer and blogger, Ashwin Rajagopalan. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN KARNATAKA Saree is usually worn by the Karnataka females. It consists of regal silk sarees, which happen to be the traditional costumes of this place. Karnataka is the silk hub of the country. Karnataka silk has a wide spectrum. It has abundant variety, namely, smooth , sleek chiffons, and gorgeous brocades. These sarees not only decorate women in the state, but also establish its sway in other parts of the country and in foreign nations. The main dress of the men is a 'lungi' which is worn below the waist beneath a shirt. A 'angavastram', a silk or cotton muffler is placed on the neck covering the shoulder Most of Karnataka men use modern wear for daily purpose without having the privilege of many options. However, on special occasions, men might dress themselves in ornate versions of their traditional costume, the Panche, which is Dhoti-like apparel. In recent times, only the rustic men of Karnataka stick to Panche, as their everyday costume. Mysore Peta is the traditional headdress for Karnataka. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN KARNATAKA Festivals celebrated in Karnataka are: • Pattadakkal Dance Festival • • Hoysala Mahotsava • Ugadi • Ganesh Chaturthi • Hampi Festival • Dussehra • Karaga KERALA KERALA (God's Own Country) historically known as Keralam, is an Indian state in south India on the Malabar coast. It was formed on 1 November 1956 following the states reorganization act by combining Malayalam-speaking regions. Spread over 38,863 km2(15,005 sq mi), it is bordered by Karnataka to the north and northeast, Tamil Nadu to the east and south, and the Lakshadweep sea to the west. With 33,387,677 inhabitants as per the 2011 census, Kerala is the thirteen largest state by population and is divided into 14 districts with the capital being Thiruvananthapuram Malayalam is the most widely spoken language and is also the official language of the state. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN KERALA

There are the best food in Kerala. Some of them are: 1) They've got chicken, mutton, beef, pork and a thrilling variety of seafood - mussels, crab, tiger prawns, king prawns, tiny prawns, oysters, sardines, mackerel, tuna and gorgeous red lobsters. This 'land of spices' has many exquisite foods to showcase but there few ingredients that I found common to most foods - coconut, chopped, grated or shaved, coconut milk or paste used in gravies or as oil for cooking. Chilies, curry leaf, mustard seeds and tamarind also dominate the dishes. 2) puttu and kadla curry to ghee roast to the rest of the items on an inexhaustible list of vegetarian delicacies. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN KERALA

Costumes of Kerala for Women The traditional garment worn by the women of Kerala is the ‘’. The conventional piece is the ‘’ which is the lower garment and it consists of two cotton cloth pieces. The Mundu is worn around the hips and beneath the navel. The cloth is creamy or white in colour and possesses a coloured strip called border or Kara. The women of Kerala wear Mundu in different style from that of the women of Christian origin cloth over the shoulders.

The traditional wear of the Hindu men residing in the state of Kerala is ‘ Mundu’. This dress is very much popular in the rural or remote areas. This attire is a pieceCostumes of Kerala for Men The men of the region are more conservative than the women. In keeping with the old tradition of Kerala they wear white, which was once universal for both genders. Their main garment is the long cloth called ‘Mundu’, which is tucked at the waist and reaches to the ankle, giving its wearer a peculiar mincing walk, unless, to stride more freely, he it to the knees. Many men wear no garment above the waist, but those who belong to the higher castes at least drape a towel-like of cloth made of cotton, 3 to 4 meter long having a silk border. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN KERALA

Festivals celebrated in Kerala are: • • • Thrissur Pooram Festival • Theyyam Festival • Kerala Boat Festivals • Maha Shivarathri • Attukal Pongala Festival in Kerala • Temple festivals of Kerala • Makaravilakku Festival • Christmas MADHYA PRADESH

MADHYA PRADHESH (City Of Lakes) is a state in central India. Its capital is Bhopal and the largest city is Indore. Nicknamed the "heart of India" due to its geographical location in India, Madhya Pradesh is the second-largest state in the country by area. With over 75 million inhabitants, it is the fifth-largest state in India by population. It borders the states of Uttar Pradesh to the north-east, Chhattisgarh to the south- east, Maharashtra to the south, Gujarat to the west, and Rajasthan to the northwest. Its total area is 308,245 km². Before 2000, When Chhattisgarh was a part of Madhya Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh was the largest state in India and the distance between two furthest points inside the state, singoli and konta was 1500 km. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN MADHYA PRADESH There are mainly street food in Madhya Pradesh. Some of them are: 1) crisp jalebis, piping hot samosas with tangy , Khasta Kachori, or the most-loved local street food - Bhutte Ka Kees (corn kernels cooked with milk and spices). 2) If you are a street food lover then Indore is bound to lure you into its spell. Here, there is a street called Sarafa which is dedicated to serving lip-smacking snacks, namkeen, chaats and decadent sweets like Khopra Pak, Peda, Lavang Lata, Kusli, Malpua, Rabdi and till 2 at night! COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN MADHYA PRADESH Men's costume in Madhya Pradesh The majority of the men of Madhya Pradesh attest Dhoti as their traditional costume. Safa, a kind of turban, is the headgear, which is the common feature of Madhya Pradesh costume. Furthermore, a white or black jacket called Bandi or Mirzai, is a part of the men's attire, specifically in and Malw. Women's costume in Madhya Pradesh The womenfolk of Madhya Pradesh dress themselves in Lehenga and Choli. Another additional strip of cloth called Orni or Lugra is draped around the head and shoulders, to retain a decent and sober look. Bandhani cloth is produced on a huge scale in Maundsar, Indore and Ujjain. The fabric is painted with molten wax and is dyed with cold dyes to create a cloth variety called Batik. Contrast patterns on Batik cloth are quite well-known. The delicate Chanderi sarees and Maheshwari sarees produced in Madhya Pradesh are hand-woven, and they are quite renowned all over India. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN MADHYA PRADESH Festivals celebrated in Madhya Pradesh are: • Lokrang Festival • Akhil Bhartiya Kalidas Samaroh • Khajuraho Festival • Bhagoria Haat Festival • Holi • Ujjain Kumbh Mela • Utsav • Dussehra • Nagaji Fair • Diwali/ Deepawali • Chethiyagiri Vihara Festival • Tansen Samaroh or Tansen Sangeet Samaroh • Pachmarhi Utsav • Film Festival MAHARASHTRA

MAHARASHTRA (City Of Dreams) is a state in the western region of India and is India's third-largest state by area and is also the world's second-most populous sub-national entity. It has over 112 million inhabitants and its capital, Mumbai, has a population of approximately 18 million. Nagpur is Maharashtra's second capital as well as winter capital. Maharashtra's business opportunities along with its potential to offer a higher standard of living attract migrants from all over India. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN MAHARASHTRA There are lots of food in Maharashtra. And this place is also famous in street food. Some of them are: 1) The use of freshly ground masalas like malvani masala, goda masala and kala masala, is the highlight of Maharashtrian cuisine. 2) Vegetables, lentils along with grains like wheat, rice, jowar and bajra constitute an integral part of everyday cooking. are also given a lot of significance in a staple Maharashtrian diet and you have vadas, pavs, polis served in combination with bhajjis, missal, ussal or ragda. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN MAHARASHTRA Costume of Maharashtra for Men The men of Maharashtra uphold Dhoti as their cultural heritage. It may be worn along with a shirt or kurta, and Dhoti is often substituted with trousers. They also wear ‘Bandi’ over the shirt and turban called ‘’ and ‘Pagri’. The festive occasions of the Maharashtrians allow themselves to indulge in the festive mood and during this time most of the men wear ‘’, ‘Pyjama’, ‘’ or ‘Survar’. Costume of Maharashtra for Women The traditional costume of women in Maharashtra is a 9 yard long saree called ‘Nauvari Saree’. This saree bears a resemblance to male trousers. This specific style of draping does not require a petticoat or a beneath it. The Nauvari sarees have a historical background. During the rule, women were entrusted with the grave responsibility of helping their male partners, at emergency period of wars. To facilitate easy movement, the Maharashtrian women then introduced the Nauvari Saree. The fabric of Nauvari Saree is usually cotton, and for special occasions, silk tops the priority list. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN MAHARASHTRA Festivals celebrated in Maharashtra are: • Diwali • Makar Sankranti Nag Panchami • Nag Panchami • Gudhi Padwa • Pola • Narali Pournima • Gokul Ashtami • Ganesh Chaturthi • Dussehra • Holi/ • The Banganga Festival • The Elephanta Festival MANIPUR

MANIPUR is a state in northeastern India, with the city of Imphal as its capital. Manipur is sometimes called alternative names such as Kangleipak or Sanaleibak. It is bounded by Nagaland to the north, Mizoram to the south, and Assam to the west; Burma (Myanmar) lies to its east. The state covers an area of 22,327 square kilometers (8,621 sq mi). Its people include the Meetei, Kuki, Naga, and Pangal peoples, who speak Sino-Tibetan languages. Manipur has been at the crossroads of Asian economic and cultural exchange for more than 2,500 years. It has long connected the Indian subcontinent to Southeast Asia, enabling migration of people, cultures and religions. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN MANIPUR

The principal food of Manipur is rice, fish and vegetables. some of the food are: 1) One of the favorite foods of the Manipur is the Ngri, which is actually is a type of fermented fish. It carries a distinct smell but it is very popular for its taste. 2) Apart from Ngri, there are so many fishes such as roasted fish and fried fish, they also love the Nga Aiyaba or the dried fish. 3) Chicken is another popular dish of the people of Manipur. Some of the popular dishes and preparations of Manipur are: 1. Yongchaak singju 2. Monica gi chakum 3. Aloo mattar and smoked fish 4. - a kind of 5. Kanghau 6. Aloo angouba - fried potato 7. Pakoura mah 8. Nga atauba - fish fry 9. Nga athongba - curried fish 10. Khajing bora. COSTUMES PEOOPLE WEAR IN MANIPUR costumes women wear in Manipur Women wear a PHANEK i.e. a colorfully striped wrap around, like that of a . The phanek is still hand woven. There are phanek that are worn when they go out which is called MAYEK NAIBI(they MUST have horizontal stripes). KANAP PHANEK is women's skirt that is made stitching the tornout traditional cloth of meitai women.Amongst the dresses used at the time of rituals, the main is ‘Chin-phi’ (an embroidered Phanek) and ‘Lai-phi’ (a white cloth with yellow border). Costumes men wear in Manipur Men generally wear a WHITE DHOTI on ceremonial occasions and put on a PAGRI. KHAMEN CHATPA is a ceremonial dhoti that cannot be worn by any common person. It was presented as a token of reward by the king to brave persons. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN MANIPUR

Festivals celebrated in Manipur are: • Ningol Chakouba • Yaoshang • Christmas • Kut • Gaan-Ngai • Ramjan EId • Cheiraoba • Lai-Haraoba • Heikru Hidongba • Lui Ngai Ni MEGHALAYA

MEGHALAYA (Land Of Clouds) Is a state in . The name means "the abode of clouds" in Sanskrit. The population of Meghalaya as of 2014 is estimated to be 3,211,474. Meghalaya covers an area of approximately 22,430 square kilometers, with a length to breadth ratio of about 3:1. The state is bounded to the south by the Bangladeshi divisions of Mymensingh and Sylhet, to the west by the Bangladeshi division of Rangpur, and to the east by India's State of Assam. The capital of Meghalaya is Shillong. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN MEGHALAYA

1) To begin with the food of Meghalaya, the food crops of Meghalaya are rice and maize. Many fruits, which form an important part of the food in Meghalaya, are grown there. Among the important fruits grown in Meghalaya are oranges, guava, pineapples, , lemon, etc. The food and fruits grown in Meghalaya largely influence the eating habits of the people of Meghalaya. 2) meat of bison, deer, wild pigs, etc. Fish, crabs, eels, prawns, dry fishes also form a major part of the food in Meghalaya. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN MEGHALAYA Women's costume in Meghalaya The weaver-ace Garos cater to different forms of costume, in keeping with the air of the ambience they are residing in. In the remote areas of Garo hills' villages, the women drape eking, a short cloth round the waist. The Garo women go for a longer version of cotton attire in the crowded zones. A Garo woman dons a blouse, and wears a Lungi like of unstitched cloth called Dakmanda, by fastening it round the waist. Men's costume in Meghalaya The Garo men put in a loin cloth as traditional dress. The traditional costume of the Khasi man in Meghalaya is unstitched lower apparel, akin to Dhoti, completed by a jacket and headgear or turban. However, in the recent times, men display themselves in traditional garments only on social festivals and ceremonies, to keep the flame of tradition, glowing. The costume of the male members of the Jaintia tribe bears similarities with that of the Khasi men. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN MEGHALAYA Festivals celebrated in Meghalaya are: • Wangala • Behdienkhlam Festival • Chad Sukra • Saram Cha A • Usman Nongkharai • Shad-Suk Mynsiem MIZORAM

MIZORAM is one of the states of Northeast India, with Aizawl as its capital city. The name is derived from Mi (people), Zo (lofty place, such as a hill) and Ram (land), and thus Mizoram implies "land of the hill people". In the northeast, it is the southern most landlocked state sharing borders with three of the Seven, now with the addition of Sikkim, Eight sister states, namely , Assam, Manipur. The state also shares a 722 kilometer border with the neighboring countries of Bangladesh and Myanmar. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN MIZORAM

The Mizoram cuisine offers mainly non-vegetarian delicacies. The people who belong to this place do eat vegetables, but they prefer to add some non-vegetarian ingredients to each and every dish they prepare. 1) The staple food of these people is primarily rice. One of the most popular non-vegetarian items of the people of the state is fish. The most commonly used medium of cooking is mustard oil. The Mizos do not like to eat oily food and they prefer to cook most of the dishes with little oil. 2) Some of the most demanded delicacies of Mizoram are made with ingredients like bamboo shoots and ducks. Some very well known Mizo dishes are Misa Mach Poora, Panch Phoron Taarkari, which is actually a grilled preparation of shrimps, Dal with Eggs, Poora Mach and Koat Pitha. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN MIZORAM Women's costume of Mizoram The gorgeous dress of Mizo girls is a must during and festivals such as 'Chapchar Kut' and 'Pawl Kut '. The shades in the attire are black and white. The black portion of the is originated from some kind of synthetic fur. Kawrchei is a fabulous blouse for Mizo girls. That also is hand-woven and cotton material. This are usually used along with 'Puanchei' and while performing the various dances of the Mizo. Men's Costume of Mizoram Mizo men believe in simplicity, when it comes about their traditional costume. They drape themselves in an almost 7 feet long and 5 wide cloth-piece. In cold season, some additional cloth is used, one on top of the other, along with a , comes down from the throat enveloping till the thighs. White and red , stuffed with designs adorn the sleeves of these . During the hot months, people wore these clothes around the waist to feel comfortable. The entire dress of the male of the Lusei tribe is made of cotton, cultivated in the region itself. Usually, the costumes come in white `, but sometimes men want to wear other shades, for example, blue colour bestowed with stripes. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN MIZORAM

Festivals celebrated In Mizoram are: • CHAPCHAR KUT • THALFAVANG KUT • Khuado Kut • MIM KUT • PAWL KUT • Anthurium Festival NAGALAND

NAGALAND (Land Of Warriors) Is a state in Northeast India. It borders the state of Assam to the west, Arunachal Pradesh and part of Assam to the north, Burma to the east, and Manipur to the south. The state capital is Kohima, and the largest city is Dimapur. It has an area of 16,579 square kilometers (6,401 sq mi) with a population of 1,980,602 per the 2011 Census of India, making it one of the smallest states of India. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN NAGALAND

The local people of Nagaland prefer mainly non-vegetarian food. some of the food they eat are: 1) The food of Nagaland comprises of plain rice, cooked vegetables and meat. The local indigenous tribal communities of Nagaland are non- vegetarians who savor meats of all the animals. Dogs, spiders, pork, beef, crabs, cats, chicken and even elephants are eaten with great enthusiasm. 2) Representing the vibrant and dynamic cultural lifestyle, the local indigenous inhabitants of Nagaland prepare several drinks from rice. Some of the varieties of indigenous drinks of Nagaland are: • Dzutse • Zutho • Ruhi COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN NAGALAND Women's costume of Nagaland Women in general are clad in plain blue cloth and a white cloth with black marginal bands of changing breadth. Women often wear men's garment. The casual costume of a dress of Angami women includes a petticoat called neikhro, a sleeveless top called vatchi, a white skirt called pfemhou. Men's costume of Nagaland A daily costume, meant for wear and tear, is the black called ratapfe. Men wear black , decorated with embroidered cowries in three or four lines. The western Angami villages have their unique style of costume-design. Shawls of Lothas are graded by the number of gennas or festivals arranged by the wearer. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN NAGALAND

Festivals celebrated in Nagaland are: • Hornbill • Aoleang Monyu Festival • Sekrenyi • Moatsu Festival • Tsungrem Mong • Tsukhenyie • Bushu • Rengma Ngadah • Nazu • Tuluni • Yemshe • Sankarni ODISHA

ODISHA (Temple City Of India) is one of the 29 states of India, located in the eastern coast. Its capital is . It is surrounded by the states of West Bengal to the north-east, Jharkhand to the north, Chhattisgarh to the west and north- west, Andhra Pradesh and Telengana to the south and south-west. Odisha has 485 kilometers (301 mi) of coastline along the Bay of Bengal on its east, from Balasore to Malkangiri. It is the 9th largest state by area, and the 11th largest by population. Odia (formerly known as Oriya) is the official and most widely spoken language, spoken by 33.2 million according to the 2001 Census. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN ODISHA

Compared to other regional Indian ; 1) Odia cuisine uses relatively less oil and is mild in spices but very flavorful. Rice is the staple food of this region. Mustard oil is used in several dishes as the cooking medium, but ghee is preferred in temples like Jagannat. Traditionally, food was served on disposable plates made of sal leaves. Yoghurt is also used in various dishes. Many sweets of the region have chhena (cheese) as a base. 2) The ingredients used in Odia cuisine are typical - plantains, jackfruit, and raw papaya. The curries are garnished with tamarind and dried raw mango also called 'Ambula' in Odia. Coconut is also used in several dishes. 'Pancho phutana' is a blend of five spices, which is widely used in Odiya cuisine. It contains mustard, , fenugreek, aniseed and kalonji. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN ODISHA

Odisha Dress for Men: Most of the Odisha people are hard workers. Rural areas are very more in Odisha. In Odisha, Men is interesting to wear their own traditional outfits. Generally, Dhoti is common traditional costumes for men in Odisha. They also wear Kurta and during the festival and other traditional celebrations. The head of the family wants to learn to his other family members about the importance of wearing the traditional costumes. So he strictly follows to wear their religious costumes. In the way, the generations stay in touch with their tradition and culture. Odisha Traditional Dress for Women: Odisha has a lot of ancient history. Even Kalinga is the place which made to change the entire life attitude of Samrat Ashoka. Here the people interest to preserve their tradition and culture. In Odisha, women wear different types of saris, which makes for glowing the beauty of women. Odisha is famous for Kataki Sari and Sambalpuri Sari. These sari designs contain very peculiar designs and seem very dignified Most of the women in Odisha interested in wearing these saris during festival occasions, Marriage occasions and other auspicious days. is famous costumes in India, here the girls also interest to the Shalwar Kameez. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN ODISHA

Festivals celebrated in Odisha are: • January : Makar, Yatra. • February: Magha Saptmi, Sarswati Puja. • March : Dola Yatra (Holi), Siva Ratri. • April : Sokastami, Mahavisuva Sankrati, . • May : Jhamu Yatra, Chaita Parva. • June : Sitalsasthi, Festival. • July : Car Festival ( Rath Yatra) PUNJAB

PUNJAB (The Royal City) Is a geographical and cultural region in the northern part of South Asia, comprising areas of eastern Pakistan and northern India. Its capital is Chandigarh. Not being a political unit, the extent of the region is the subject of debate and focuses on historical events to determine its boundaries. The Punjab region has been inhabited by Indus Valley Civilization, Indo-Aryan peoples, Indo-Scythians and has seen numerous invasions by the Achaemenid Empire, Greeks, Kushan Empire, , Timurids, Mughals, Afghans. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN PUNJAB

Punjab is famous for its non vegetarian food. some of the food are: 1) One of the most impressive things about Punjabi food is its variety. While meat lovers can never have enough of the evergreen Butter Chicken, Bhuna Gosht, Tandoori Chicken and Amritsari Machchi, vegetarian fare is equally delightful. Sarson ka Saag, Chole Bhature and Dal Makhni are just a handful of vegetarian Punjabi specialities with fans across the globe. 2) Punjab is home to authentic tandoori food. It is believed that the '' originated in Persia and was introduced to India by the . Back in the day, people living in the Punjab region were the first ones to learn the art of cooking with the tandoor. It is believed that tandoori chicken was invented in as recently as the 1930s and became popular thereafter. 3) It is interesting to know that a couple of star Punjabi delicacies like the Butter Chicken and Dal Makhni, were an outcome of culinary experimentation. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN PUNJAB Costumes of Punjabi Women Churidar Kurta invariably worn by Punjabi women in actuality has paved the way for national globalization of this dress. This was traditionally the dress worn in Punjab, but is now worn almost everywhere, particularly among the younger generations with bright coloured . The women can also be seen wearing shawls adorned with the beautiful embroidery. The shawl is completely covered in thick silk embroidery and folk motifs done in jewel-tones on an ochre background. Costume of Punjabi Men The traditional costume of the men of Punjab comprises Kurta Pyjama. The Kurta is a kind of loose shirt which is long and straight- cut. The Pyjamas are loose, baggy pants which are tied at the waist. Some men also wear the Kurta with the Lungi or Tehmat, which is a kind of sarong. During winters they can be seen wearing bright colourful . Some of the boys as well as the grown up men can be seen wearing loose pants or slacks with a collared shirt or t- shirt. The Sikhs among the can be distinctly identified by their attire as they are obliged by religion to wear , known as Pugg or Pagri. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN PUNJAB

Festivals celebrated in Punjab are: • Baisakhi Festival • Lohri • Holla Mohalla • Gurupurab Festival • • Tikka (Bhaiya Dooj) • • Karwa Chauth • Dussehra • Diwali RAJASTHAN

RAJASTHAN () is India's largest state by area (342,239 square kilometers (132,139 sq mi) or 10.4% of India's total area). It is located on the north-western side of the country, where it comprises most of the wide and inhospitable (also known as the "Rajasthan Desert" and "Great Indian Desert") and shares a border with the Pakistani provinces of Punjab to the northwest and Sindh to the west, along the Sutlej-Indus river valley. Elsewhere it is bordered by the other Indian states: Punjab to the north; Haryana and Uttar Pradesh to the northeast; Madhya Pradesh to the southeast; and Gujarat to the southwest. Its capital and largest city is . Rajasthan is divided into 9 regions; Ajmer State, , , , , , , and which are equally rich in its heritage and artistic contribution. These regions have a parallel history which goes along with that of the state. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN IN RAJASTHAN

A large part of the state is inhabited by the Marawaris, who prefer vegetarian food. That is why vegetarian food is popular here. some of the food people eat here are: 1) You can stumble across some of the most tempting shakahari bhoj in different parts of the state. Pyaaz kachori remains as one of my staple favorites. Known as the land of Rajputs, the state is evidently under a heavy influence of delicacies including fiery hot meat curries and mouthwatering desi desserts. Rajastani cuisine uses a lot of ghee. If you happen to be in Rajasthan anytime soon, don't miss out on dal baati churma, pyazz kachori, gatte ki sabzi, papad ki sabzi. For those who live on meaty delights, laal maas, safed maas, banjari gosht . 2) Rajasthan is a dry area, hence a lot of food preparations use less water and more of milk, curd, butter milk or cream as substitutes. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN RAJASTHAN Costumes of Rajasthan for Men The Pagri (turban), , Dhoti, Kamarbandh or Patka (waistband) form an integral part of a Rajasthani male’s attire. Costumes of Rajasthan for Women The Rajasthani female’s attire includes Ghaghra- Choli and Odhni. Nowadays, the traditional costume of the Rajasthani women is almost in a state of transition. The women are opting for new fabrics, designs and accessories. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN RAJASTHAN Festivals celebrated in Rajasthan are: • Bikaner Camel Festival • Desert Festival • Gangaur Festival • Kajli Festival • Marwar Festival • Mewar Festival • Teej Festival SIKKIM

SIKKIM Is a landlocked state of India, and the last to give up its monarchy and fully integrate into India in 1975. Located in the Himalayan mountains, the state is bordered by Nepal to the west, China's Tibet Autonomous Region to the north and northeast, and Bhutan to the east and the Indian state of West Bengal to the south. Its capital is With 607,688 inhabitants as of the 2011 census, Sikkim is the least populous state in India and the second- smallest State after Goa in total area, covering approximately 7,096 km2 (2,740 sq mi). VARIETIES OF FOOD IN SIKKIM Sikkim has its own unique dietary culture with specific cuisine and food recipes. Like anywhere else in the world, food habits here have evolved as the result of traditional wisdom and empirical experiences of generations. Some of the food in Sikkim are: 1) Rice is the staple food. Meat and dairy products are also consumed depending on availability. Besides these, various traditional fermented foods and beverages, which constitute of about 20 per cent of the basic diet for long centuries. 2) The dietary-culture of this region is mostly reflected in the pattern of food production. Depending on the altitudinal variation, finger millet, wheat, buckwheat, barley, vegetable, potato, soybeans, etc. are grown. Some of the common traditional cuisine with their food recipes has been presented for introduction of dietary culture of the Sikkim Himalayas, as well as for product diversification. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN SIKKIM

Male costume of Sikkim The traditional costume of the Lepcha male is Thokro-Dum which involves a white pajama, stretching only to the calves, Yenthatse, a Lepcha shirt and Shambo, the cap. The texture of the male dress is rough, and long-lasting, suitable for the hardy toil in the field and forest. The traditional costume of males comprises Kho, also known as Bakhu. It is a loose mantle which is tied at the neck on one side, and at the waist region with a silk or cotton . Female costume of Sikkim The hereditary costume of Lepcha women is Dumvum or Dumdyam, a kind of smooth and cosy ankle-long dress, draped like a saree, Tago a loose-fitting comfortable blouse, Nyamrek, a belt and Taro, a cap. The magnificent ornaments exhibited by the Lepcha women, entail, earrings, called Namchok, Lyak a , Gyar, a bracelet, and so on. The Bhutia community, hailing from the adjacent country of Tibet, has over years become rooted in the culture and social norms of Sikkim. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN SIKKIM

Festivals celebrated in Sikkim are: • Lhabab Dhuechen Festival • Losoong Festival • Losar Festival • Guru Rimpoche's Trungkar Tshechu • Kagyed Dance Festival • Kalchakra Puja TAMIL NADU

TAMIL NADU (Health Capital Of India) is one of the 29 states of India. Its capital and is Chennai (formerly known as Madras). Tamil Nadu lies in the southernmost part of the Indian Peninsula and is bordered by the union territory of Puducherry and the South Indian states of Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. It is bounded by the Eastern Ghats on the north, by the Nilgiri, the Anamalai Hills, and Kerala on the west, by the Bay of Bengal in the east, by the Gulf of Mannar and the Palk Strait on the southeast, and by the Indian Ocean on the south. The state shares a maritime border with the nation of Sri Lanka. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN TAMIL NADU

Tamil cuisine is quite incredible and it's not all dosas and sambars. But there is also something else. Which is also popular food. some of the food which is popular are: 1) From tangy tamarind to fresh turmeric to pungent pods of chilies and curry leaves crackling in coconut oil. The Classic Anglo-Indian soup, Mulligatawny, was rich with spices and meat. Mulligatawny literally means 'pepper water'. The Chicken 65 is red, hot and crispy. This are the most famous dishes and ingredients in Tamil Nadu. 2) The meal is pure vegetarian fare served on banana leaves and is called Ilai Sappadu. 'Sappadu' means a full course meal that accommodates all the six tastes - sweet, sour, bitter, salty, pungent and astringent. It consists of a never- ending array of dishes such as Poriyal, Rice, Varuval, Pachadi, Idli, Payasam, Sambar, Thokku, Vadai, Rice, Kuzambu amongst others. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN TAMIL NADU Costumes for Women The women of this state are decked with these traditional sarees that mark them from rest of the communities. Ancient Tamil poetry, Silappadhikaram (Cilappatikaram) describes women in sarees. The ageless charm of these sarees is the identity of the women of Tamil Nadu. Being the abode of South Indian silk sarees with rich zari work, the costumes reflect the traditions of India and Tamil Nadu itself.

Costumes of Men Costumes of Tamil Nadu are although not just restricted to the fairer gender only; men also occupy a considerable position. Men are generally encountered dressed in lungi, together with a shirt and Angavastra. The traditional and tremendously popular lungi originated in the South and it is purely a short length of material worn around the thighs, resembling a sarong. A dhoti is a rather longer lungi, but with an additional length of material hauled up within the legs. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN TAMIL NADU Festivals celebrated in Tamil Nadu are: • • Tamil New Year’s Day • Natyanjali Dance Festival • • Mahamaham Festival • Thiruvaiyaru Festival • Karthigai Deepam TELANGANA

TELANGANA (Second City Of India is one of the 29 states in India, located in southern India. Telangana has an area of 112,077 square kilometer (43,273 sq mi), and a population of 35,193,978 (2011 census) making it the twelfth largest state in India, and the twelfth most populated state in India. Its major cities include Hyderabad, Warangal, Nizamabad, Kham am and Karimnagar. Telangana is bordered by the states of Maharashtra to the north and north west, Chhattisgarh to the north, Karnataka to the west and Andhra Pradesh to the east and south. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN TELANGANA

Since Telangana has Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh and Northwest Karnataka as its neighbors, its cuisine borrows a great deal from the local tastes of these states. But there are some other food also and they taste awesome. some of the food are: 1) spring , sesame and coriander seeds. Its cuisine makes use of ingredients like sorghum and broken rice. A lot of cooking is done with millets. 2) Its curry based delicacies are known as koora whereas when deep-fried and reduced to a thicker consistency it transforms into vepudu. Snake gourd, bananas, eggplant and lentils are widely used; peanuts and cashew nuts are often used to add another level to the flavor. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN TELANGANA Men in Telangana commonly like to wear Dhoti and Kurta, whereas women prefer saree. Women from all communities can be seen wearing different patterns of sarees. Even Muslim and Christian women wear saris. Although the traditional outfit of Muslim women in Telangana is salwar kameez, they give a try to other dresses too. Hindu and Christian men can be seen in Dhoti and Kurta. Men in Muslim community wear instead of dhoti with a small cap over their head. Whether you go into villages or cities, many women can be found wearing sarees. However, due to westernization young girls like to wear modern dresses like skirts, , tops, , etc. Overall Telangana holds its tradition simultaneously advancing and adopting the current trend. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN TELANGANA

Festivals celebrated in Telangana are: • Bonalu • Bathukamma • Sammakka Saralamma Jatara • Holi (festival of colours). • Sankranthi. • Raksha Bandhan (celebrating siblings). • (the victory of good over evil). • Ganesh Chaturthi ( of the god Ganesha). • Ugadi (South Indian New Year). • Diwali (festival of lights). • Rama Navami (birth of the god Rama). • (monthly fasts). • Varalakshmi Vratam (the goddess Lakshmi). • Naga Chaturthi/Nag Panchami (serpent gods). • (birth of the god Krishna). • Eid al-Fitr (marking the end of the fasting month of Ramadan). • Eid al-Adha (marking the end of the Hajj pilgrimage). • Muharram (first month of the Islamic calendar). • Mawlid (birth of the prophet Muhammad). • Good Friday. • Christmas. TRIPURA

TRIPURA is a state in Northeast India. The third-smallest state in the country, it covers 10,491 km2 (4,051 sq mi) and is bordered by Bangladesh (East Bengal) to the north, south, and west, and the Indian states of Assam and Mizoram to the east. In 2011 the state had 3,671,032 residents, constituting 0.3% of the country's population. The Bengali Hindu people form the ethno-linguistic majority in Tripura. Indigenous communities, known in India as scheduled tribes, form about 30 per cent of Tripura's population. The Kokborok speaking Tripura people are the major group among 19 tribes and many subtribes. Tripura lies in a geographically disadvantageous location in India, as only one major highway, the National Highway 8, connects it with the rest of the country. Five mountain ranges— Boromura, Atharamura, Longtharai, Shakhan and Jampui Hills—run north to south, with intervening valleys; Agartala, the capital, is located on a plain to the west. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN TRIPURA

Tripura cuisine is the type of food served in the northeast Indian state of Tripura. The Tripuris are essentially non vegetarians and hence the main courses are mainly prepared using meat, but with the addition of vegetables. some of the dishes in Tripura are: 1) Traditional Tripuri cuisine is known as Mui Borok. Tripuri food has a key ingredient called Berma, which is dried and fermented fish. The food is considered to be healthy as it is prepared without oil. 2) Flavor wise, Berma is more on the sour side. Tripuri food such as bangui rice and fish , bamboo shoots, fermented fish, local , and meat roasts are extremely popular within and outside the state. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN TRIPURA

Male costume of Tripura The daily work-costume of a full-grown male is a towel-like sheet of loin cloth, called Rikutu Gamcha, topped off by a self-woven shirt, called Kubai. To combat the blazing heat of the sun and to continue working in the open heat, the men resort to a pagri, i.e., a turban. Western influence is prominently visible on the young boys of today's Tripura, because they prefer wearing shirts and pants of international style.

Female costume of Tripura The Khakloo, and at large the Tripuri women, envelop themselves in a greater size of cloth-piece, known as Rinai. This long as well as broad cloth is draped around the waist and reaches the knee. She dons herself in a shorter piece of cloth called Risa. This upper-attire passes under the arms, and conceals the entire chest-region of the body. Risas are often invested with beautiful embroideries. Now-a- days, the younger generation of girls prioritize blouses over Risa, as being more management-friendly. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN TRIPURA

Festivals celebrated in Tripura are: • • Kharchi Puja • Garia Puja • Diwali Festival • Pous Sankranti Mela • Ashokastami Festival • Orange & Festival • Boat Race UTTARAKHAND

UTTARAKHAND (The Queen Of Mountains) is a state in the northern part of India. It is often referred to as the Devbhumi. due to many Hindu temples and pilgrimage centers found throughout the state. Uttarakhand is known for its natural beauty of the Himalayas, the Bhabhar and the Terai. On 9 November 2000, this 27th state of the Republic of India was created from the Himalayan and adjoining northwestern districts of Uttar Pradesh. It borders Tibet on the north; the Mahakali Zone of the Far-Western Region, Nepal on the east; and the Indian states of Uttar Pradesh to the south and Himachal Pradesh to the west and north-west as well as Haryana to its south-western corner. The state is divided into two divisions, Garhwal and Kumaon, with a total of 13 districts. The interim capital of Uttarakhand is Dehradun, the largest city in the region, which is a railhead. The High Court of the state is in Nainital. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN UTTARAKHAND Although the residents of Uttararkhand prefer a purely vegetarian meal, a major bulk of the inhabitants also bask food recipes readied from mutton or chicken. some of the food in uttarakhand are: 1) the prime staple food is rice. However, the residents of the Pahari region prefer lentils. Food items like 'bhatt' a type of soybean, 'kulath' or rust brown gahat, 'badis' or humongous spheres of dried urad dal and 'mangodi' prepared in an identical fashion using moong dal instead are local favorites that aid the occupants to combat the spine-chilling winters. 2) Other favorites are Mundua and Linguda. The cooking medium frequently used is either ghee or mustard oil. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN UTTARAKHAND Festivals cele0brated in Uttarakhand are: • Panchami • Bhitauli • Nandadevi • Olgia/Ghee Sankranti • Makar Sankranti • Ganga Dussehra/Dasara • Phool Dei • Hilljatra • Bat Savitri • Janopunya • Khatarua • Chhipla Jaat • Kumaon Holi • Kandali COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN UTTARAKHAND Women's costume of Uttarakhand Ghagri, an oriental long skirt, topped off by a Choli, an Indian blouse and an Orni, a cloth covering the head and the front portion, usually fastened to the waist, happen to be the traditional costume of the women of Uttarakhand, namely, the Garhwalis and the Kumaonis. The traditional bridal costume of the Kumaoni is Ghaghra-Pichora, akin to Ghaghra Lehenga- Choli. Pichora is a Kumaoni veil or Rangwali, endowed with and silver tatting. But women also go for sarees. Men's costume of Uttarakhand The traditional male costume of Uttarakhand is the loin-cloth Dhoti, or the Lungi, used as the lower-garment. The Uttarakhand man dons himself in Kurta, to serve as the upper-attire. The men love to present themselves with headgear, or turban, a part of their traditional costume. Kurta - Pajamas are another good alternative for men of Uttarakhand. Both women and men wear sweaters or woollen in winter, mainly sleeveless in form. In towns and cities like Dehradun, Rishikesh dresses are worn due to the influence of western culture. Males who return from the plains bring the tradition of wearing well tailored dresses. UTTAR PRADESH

UTTAR PRADHESH (The Golden City Of India) abbreviated as UP, is the most populous state in the Republic of India as well as the most populous country subdivision in the world. It was created on 1 April 1937 as the United Provinces during British rule, and was renamed Uttar Pradesh in 1950. Lucknow is the capital city of Uttar Pradesh. Ghaziabad, Bulandshahr, Kanpur, Gorakhpur, , Ra ebareli, Moradabad, Bareilly, Aligarh, Sonbhadra, and Varanasi are known for their industrial importance in the state. On 9 November 2000, a new state, Uttarakhand, was carved out from the Himalayan hill region of Uttar Pradesh. The state in the northern region of the Indian subcontinent has over 200 million inhabitants. It covers 243,290 square kilometers (93,933 sq mi), equal to 6.88% of the total area of India, and is the fourth largest Indian state by area. is the official and most widely spoken language in its 75 districts. Uttar Pradesh is the third largest Indian state by economy, with a GDP of ₹9,763 billion (US$150 billion). VARIETIES OF FOOD IN UTTAR PRADESH The state is famous for its royally delicious Nawabi food. Cooking techniques in Uttar Pradesh were greatly influenced by Mughal's. some of the food in this state are: 1) The state is famous for its royally delicious Nawabi food. Cooking techniques in Uttar Pradesh were greatly influenced by Mughal's. 2) The main genre of Uttar Pradesh cuisine is Awadhi, and the cooking patterns of the state are similar to those of the rest of Northern India. The of Uttar Pradesh bears similarities to those of Kashmir and Punjab. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN UTTAR PRADESH The people of Uttar Pradesh wear a variety of native- and Western-style dress. Traditional styles of dress include colourful draped garments – such as sari for women and dhoti or lungi for men – and tailored clothes such as salwar kameez for women and kurta-pyjama for men. Men also often sport a head-gear like topi or pagri. Sherwani is a more formal male dress and is frequently worn along with churidar, on festive occasions. European- style trousers and shirts are also common among the men. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN UTTAR PRADESH

Festivals celebrated in Uttar Pradesh are: • Makar Sankranti- Khichari Mela • Kumbh Mela • Ramayan Mela • Urs of Zinda Shah Madar • Dhrupad Mela • Latthamar Holi • Nauchandi Mela • Sankat Mochan Music Festival • Ram Navami • Jal Vihar Mahotsav • Kailash Fair • Shravan Jhula Mela • Shri Krishna Janmashtami • Matki Leela • Diwali • Cattle Fair • Christian Fair • Garh Ganga Mela • Dev Deepawali • Ramayan Mela WEST BENGAL

WEST BENGAL (City Of Joy) is an Indian state, located in East India on the Bay of Bengal. It is India's fourth- most populous state, with over 91 million inhabitants. It has a total area of 34,267 sq mi (88,750 km2), making it similar in size to Serbia. A part of the ethno- linguistic Bengal region, it borders Bangladesh in the east and Nepal and Bhutan in the north. It also has borders with five Indian states, including Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar, Sikkim and Assam. The state capital is Kolkata (Calcutta), the third-largest city in India. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN WEST BENGAL

The cuisine of Bengal is as rich and distinct as the state itself. The rule of Nawabs has deeply influenced Bengali food which is a combination of subtle and fiery flavors. Some of the best food are: 1) West Bengal is famously known as the land of maach (fish) and bhaat (rice). share an irrevocable relationship with these two foods that are a staple in almost every household. Since countless rivers surround the state, fresh sweet water fish are a major attraction with rohu, pabda and koi being the popular ones. Interestingly, there are more than forty types of fresh water fish that are popularly served in Bengal. 2) A much-loved local delicacy in Bengal is an oily fish known as 'Hilsa' or 'Ilish'. The tenderness of the flesh, unique taste and silvery appeal make it the 'queen of fish'. In fact, hilsa holds great cultural importance in Bengal and a pair of hilsa fish (Joda Ilish) is usually bought on auspicious occasions. 3) A much-loved local delicacy in Bengal is an oily fish known as 'Hilsa' or 'Ilish'. The tenderness of the flesh, unique taste and silvery appeal make it the 'queen of fish'. In fact, hilsa holds great cultural importance in Bengal and a pair of hilsa fish (Joda Ilish) is usually bought on auspicious occasions. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN WEST BENGAL Costumes of West Bengal for Women The graceful icon of elegance that symbolises the quintessential Bengali woman is the Saree, which they prefer to drape in typical Bengali fashion. In West Bengal, Sarees are primarily woven in cotton and silk which have been named chiefly after their weaving techniques. The traditional weavers or Tantis of West Bengal are reputed worldwide because of the quality of fabric spun and their elaborate thread work. In the various districts of West Bengal like Murshidabad, Malda, Nadia, Birbhum, Bankuraand Hooghly, different varieties of Sarees are woven with supreme efficiency and dedication. Costumes of west Bengal for men: are commonly worn by Hindus. The dress is a long loincloth made of silk or cotton. Dhoti forms a traditional dress for men in West Bengal. Previously, Dhotis are prevalent only in white color but nowadays different colors of Dhotis available in the market. You can pick anyone of them as per your favorite color choice and other matching stuff. Lungi is also like dhoti which is widely known for a traditional dress for men. It is worn around the waist just like dhoti. Men living in villages usually wear it on regular basis. So, it can be called as their main outfit. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN WEST BENGAL Festivals celebrated in West Bengal are: • New Year's Day • Gangasagar Mela • Makar Sankranti • Saraswati Puja • Dol Purnima • Noboborsho • Rath Yatra • Vishwa Karma Puja • Durga Puja • Laxmi Puja • • Christmas • The Muslim Festivals • Jalpesh Mela (District Jalpaiguri) • Bera Utsav (District Murshidabad) • Jagaddhatri Puja (District Hooghly) • Teesta Tea & Tourism Festival (Inter-State) • Vishnupur Festival (District Bankura) UNION TERRITORIES OF INDIA 7 UNION TERRITORIES

UNION TERRITORIE CAPITAL 1)ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR PORT BLAIR ISLANDS 2)CHANDIGARH CHANDIGARH 3) THE GOVERNMENT OF NCT DELHI OF DELHI 4)DADRA AND NAGAR HAVELI SILVASSA 5)DAMAN AND DIU DAMAN 6)LAKSHADWEEP KAVARATTI 7)PUDUCHERRY PUDUCHERRY ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR ISLANDS • ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR ISLANDS one of the seven union territories of India, are a group of islands at the juncture of the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea. • The territory is 150 km (93 mi) north of Aceh in Indonesia and separated from Thailand and Myanmar (Burma) by the Andaman Sea. It comprises two island groups, the Andaman Islands and the Nicobar Islands, separated by the 10°N parallel, with the Andaman's to the north of this latitude, and the Nicobar's to the south. The Andaman Sea lies to the east and the Bay of Bengal to the west. • The territory's capital is the Andamanese town of Port Blair. The total land area of these islands is approximately 8,249 km2(3,185 sq mi). The capital of Nicobar Islands is Car Nicobar. The islands host the Andaman and Nicobar Command, the only tri-service geographical command of the Indian Armed Forces. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR ISLANDS The Andaman and Nicobar Islands cuisine mainly comprises of sea food. These are mostly found in the hotels and restaurants of the island. The food found in Andaman and Nicobar are: 1) The food of the Andamanese mainly comprises of non veg items like meat. They also intake a lot of fruits that are found in abundance in the forests of Andaman and Nicobar islands. 2) Tropical foods are found in the hilly parts of this island. Mango, banana, orange, pineapple, guava are some common fruits that are found in the markets of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. 3) The Andaman food prepared from fish are a very popular cuisine of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Since fish is found in abundance in the sea, so people of Andaman like to take more and more fish in their meal. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR ISLANDS The Sentinelese tribe till today wears nothing. But, Major changes has entered the lifestyle and culture of the Car Nicobar islanders, who no longer restrict themselves to the traditional costumes of coconut -leaf petticoats and other similar costumes. They now have adopted modern clothes. Same about the Onges, who after years of no-dress culture, now drape themselves in the costume of the land. The Shompen people cover themselves only from their waist. With time the people of Andaman have transformed and have taken to the new and improved cosmetics and dresses. However, the Hindus, Sikhs and Christians, living on the islands, exhibit themselves in their traditional costumes of sari, , skirt-blouse, Dhoti, Kurtas, Pajamas, pants, trousers, shirts and so on. The people have taken to the new, modern attire in place of old, traditional clothes which were mainly out of plant leaves and other similar costumes. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR ISLANDS Festivals celebrated in Andaman and Nicobar Islands are: • Durga Puja • Janmashtami • Island Tourism Festival • Subhash Mela • Vivekananda Mela CHANDIGARH

• CHANDIGARH is a city and a union territory of India that serves as the capital of the Indian states of Haryana, and Punjab. As a union territory, the city is governed directly by the Union Government and is not part of either state. • Chandigarh is bordered by the state of Punjab to the north, west and south, and to the state of Haryana to the east. Chandigarh is considered to be a part of the Chandigarh capital region or Greater Chandigarh, which includes Chandigarh, and the city of Panchkula (in Haryana) and cities of Kharar, Kurali (in Punjab) VARIETIES OF FOOD IN CHANDIGARH

People of Chandigarh city are any time food crackers who prefer to taste striking cuisines with good amount of delectable spices. Similar to other places in Punjab state, the conventional cuisine of this Chandigarh city is spicy involving comparatively higher amount of ghee and oil. Some of the food are: 1) They don’t use any interesting or complex soaking other than the exuberant usage of their spices together with extraordinary addition of ghee or oil. People in Chandigarh basically prefer wheat based food to rice. The well known wheat items among the large varieties are Makkee ki Roti (corn based chapatti) and also stuffed parathas. 2) tandoori chicken together with chana bhaturas (gram curry which is very spicy with fried pastry beads), in addition to the lip-smacking channels providing ice creams and burgers, along with affordable south Indian traditional dosas (lentil and rice pancakes). COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN CHANDIGARH Men's wear in Chandigarh The urban ambience of Chandigarh requires men to go for formal office costumes. The long-sleeved shirt, with tie, coat and make up a total office- for men, is very much in vogue. n the winter months, men assume a stylish look with handsome jackets, or woollen garments, which wards off the biting cold of North India as well. As casuals, jeans and other branded or quality cotton fabric, rule the list of men's favorite costumes.

Women's Wear in Chandigarh Urbanized women of Chandigarh have laid their hands on both Indian and Western outfit. Their costume ranges from salwar-kameez, sari, kurtis, jeans, shirts, T-shirts, formal trousers, chic capries, to be very precise all the popular variety. The casual versions of these entire can serve as workplace costume, and costume for daily wear and tear. Salwar-kameez, which glorifies the innate beauty of the Indian woman, is the forever priority for the Chandigarh women. The plethora of diversity in salwar- kameez involves, suit with mirror and Kundan embroidery, Persian embroidery, Aari and Resham work , Cut-work salwar-kameez, golden filigree salwars-suits, vegetable dye kurta churidar, Phirozi salwars, handloom jacquard salwar suit, camric cotton salwar suit, suit (cotton fabric with self-design) . FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN CHANDIGARH Festivals celebrated in Chandigarh are: • Baisakhi Festival. • Chandigarh Mango Festival. • Festival of Gardens. • Chandigarh Carnival. • Chrysanthemums Show. • Chandigarh Plaza Carnival. • Teej Festival. THE GOVERNMENT OF NCT OF DELHI DELHI officially the National Capital Territory of Delhi (NCT), is a city and a union territory of India. It is bordered by Haryana on three sides and by Uttar Pradesh to the east. It is the most expansive city in India—about 1,484 square kilometers (573 sq mi). It has a population of about 25 million, making it the second most populous city after Mumbai and most populous urban agglomeration in India and 3rd largest urban area in the world. Urban expansion in Delhi has caused it to grow beyond the NCT to incorporate towns in neighboring states. At its largest extent, there is a population of about 25 million residents as of 2014. VARIETIES OF FOOD DELHI

Delhi has no specific food culture. Food culture in Delhi is a mixture of North Indian food. Some of the food in new Delhi are: 1) kababs, rotis chaat, bhelpuri, sweetmeats and biryani are very popular street food in Delhi. 2) The tandoor is an earthen oven which is used to prepare rotis and kababs. Mughlai dishes are almost a rage in the entire county due to their spicy flavor and aromatic nature. The smell of the coal is what imparts a specific flavor to food cooked in a tandoor. Some of the popular tandoori dishes in New Delhi include paneer tikka, tandoori chicken, seekh and boti kebab and even tandoori fish. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN DELHI

The cosmopolitan Delhi denizens have reflected this tradition of an all-accommodative mindset, in the choice and setting of the costume-trends. A living example is the admired female costume of Delhi, Salwar - Kameez, which refers to a dress of baggy trousers, narrowed down towards the bottom, topped off by a long shirt or like dress, and a cloth -piece called dupatta, covering the front upper portion. This costume of Salwar-Kameez, hugely popular among girls, is not inherent to India. The pattern of this Turko-Persian, or Turko-Mongol costume, was imported into the Indian horizon, with the advent of the Turko- Iranian dynasty of the DelhI Sultanate. Salwar-suits with sequined embroidery or semi-precious stones' embroidery, mirror-work, ari work, cut-work, or simple but elegant cut, prints, hand paints, all alluring on excellent fabric is the characteristic of salwar-kameez in Delhi these days. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN DELHI

Festivals celebrated in Delhi are: • New Year Day Lohri Festival • Republic Day Republic Day Parade • Valentine's Day Army Day • Kite Flying Festival Maha Shivratri • International Trade Fair Buddha Jayanti • death Anniversary • Independence Day MangoFestival • Qutub Festival Dussehra • Guru Purab Mahavir Jayanti • Phool Walon ki Sair Sharad Utsav Prasad Nagarm Lake • Thyagaraja Festival Urs at Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia’s Shrine • Baisakhi Festival Beating the Retreat Ceremony • Basant Panchami Delhi Book Fair • Bhakti Festival Central Excise Day • The Delhi Flower Show Garden Tourism Festival DADRA AND NAGAR HAVELI

• DADRA AND NAGAR HAVELI is a union territory in Western India. It is composed of two separate geographical entities – Dadra an enclave 1 km NW surrounded by Gujarat and Nagar Haveli wedged between Maharashtra and Gujarat. The capital city is Silvassa. The area of Dadra and Nagar Haveli is spread over 491 km2, landlocked between Gujarat to the north and Maharashtra to the south. • The Union Territory comprises two separate geographical units – Dadra and Nagar Haveli. The larger part spans a roughly c-shaped area up-river from the city of Daman on the coast, at the centre of which, and thus outside the territory, is the Madhuban reservoir. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN DADRA AND NAGAR HAVELI The food in Dadra and Nagar Haveli is very strongly influenced by neighboring state Gujarat. Almost always strictly vegetarian. Some of the food they eat are: 1) The grand spread of can be glimpsed and savoured in the very popular "Gujarati Thali" a large silver platter consisting of innumerable bowls full of vegetable curries, dals or lentil based gravies, a variety of breads, savories - crisp spicy fried farsans, sweetmeats and an amazing range of sweet and sour chutneys and pickles. 2) The entire meal including the vegetables and dals (curried lentils) achieves a delicate balance of flavors - sweet and sour, salty and spicy, crisp and soft, low fat and deep- fried! COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN DADRA AND NAGAR HAVELI The costume of the men of Varlis origin , the largest tribal community, comprises of a loin-cloth , a waist-long coat, and a headgear i.e., a turban. The Varli women, wrap themselves round the waist in Lugden (a one yard sari), reaching down till the knee and another piece of cloth called Padar. Women love to deck themselves in silver and white ornaments. Dhodia men, cover themselves in a white knee- length Dhoti , topped off by a shirt or a waistcoat. They, like the Varli to act as the headdress, a cap of white or coloured shades . The Dhodia men are inclined towards wearing ornaments, such as earrings and silver chains, encircling the waist. The traditional costume of the Dodhia women, on the other hand, is a dark blue saree, stretching upto the knees, and with the aanchal , enveloping the front portion of the body. Beads necklaces of resplendent hues, metal bangles on wrists and dainty metal Kadas (a kind of anklet) round the ankles, augment the natural beauty of the woman folk. The costume of the Koknas, is much akin to that of the other tribes. The sturdy Kokna men, don themselves in Dhoti, coming down till the knees, a waist coat or shirt. A turban furnishes a Kokna man with dignity. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN DADRA AND NAGAR HAVELI Festivals celebrated in Dadra and Nagar Haveli are: • Pongal • Masimagam Festival • Villianur Temple Car Festival • Bastille Day • French Food Festival • Christmas • Birth Anniversary of Sri Aurobindo DAMAN AND DIU

• DAMAN AND DIU is a coastal union territory in India, which was once a part of the Portuguese Empire's neighboring colony of Goa. For over 450 years, the coastal enclaves of Daman (Portuguese: Damão) and Diu on the Arabian Sea coast were part of Portuguese India, along with Goa and Dadra and Nagar Haveli. Goa, Daman and Diu were incorporated into the Republic of India on December 19, 1961, by military conquest. Portugal did not recognize the Indian annexation of these territories until 1974. • The territory of "Goa, Daman and Diu" was administered as a single union territory until 1987, when Goa was granted statehood, leaving Daman and Diu as a separate union territory. That is why Daman is the capital of Daman and Diu. Each enclave constitutes one of the union territory's two districts. Daman and Diu are approximately 650 kilometers away from each other by road. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN DAMAN AND DIU Daman foods are characterized by a predominance of vegetarian preparations. Some of the food they eat are: The people have a light with rotli (flat breads) and tea, while rotla (peasent bread) and saag are taken for chokha with saag and curry is taken for dinner. , lapsee, dhud-plag etc are prepared during festivals. Aleti paleti with the chicken liver and gizzard, bheja na cutlets, parsi kheema, boi, batter-fried bombay ducks, akuri are popular parsi breakfast dishes. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN DAMAN AND DIU Traditional Clothing of Daman and Diu for Men: Men like to wear Kurta Pyjama, Pathani Suits and Dhoti Kurta. Cotton outfits are also traditional in this part of India. However, due to the western influence, men started wearing shirt, trouser, , t-shirt, jacket, etc.

Traditional Clothing of Daman and Diu for Women: Females wear sari, kurta salwar, Nav-Vari (9 inches sari), Pano Bhaju, Kashti, (loincloth) worn with a blanket on shoulder called as Kunbi, Pallo with sari, etc. These dresses are simply beautiful. A wide range of sarees can be found in the market of Daman and Diu. Local markets are filled with traditional clothing. Women and girls also wear skirts, jeans, top and other modern clothing. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN DAMAN AND DIU Festivals celebrated in Daman and Diu are: • Garba Festival • Folk Dance Festival • Nariyal Poornima • Christmas LAKSHADWEEP

LAKSHADWEEP formerly known as the Laccadive, Minicoy, and Aminidivi Islands is a group of islands in the Laccadive Sea, 200 to 440 kilometers (120 to 270 mi) off the south western coast of India. The archipelago is a Union Territory and is governed by the Union Government of India. They were also known as Laccadive Islands, although geographically this is only the name of the central subgroup of the group. Lakshadweep comes from "Lakshadweepa", which means "one hundred thousand islands" in Sanskrit. The islands form the smallest Union Territory of India: their total surface area is just 32 km2 (12 sq mi). The lagoon area covers about 4,200 km2(1,600 sq mi), the territorial waters area 20,000 km2 (7,700 sq mi) and the exclusive economic zone area 400,000 km2(150,000 sq mi). The region forms a single Indian district+ with ten sub divisions. Kavaratti serves as the capital of the Union Territory. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN LAKSHADWEEP Dishing out a delicious variety of sea-food with ample mix-up of coconut is the specialty of Lakshadweep Cuisines. Some of the food they eat are: Since the island has a close proximity with Kerala, hence the cuisines reflect the taste of the inhabitants of that place. The local food of Lakshadweep primarily comprises of coconut and sea fish. The people of the island have a great inclination towards the coconut water as it is the most abundant aerated drink of the place. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN LAKSHADWEEP Costumes of Lakshadweep for Men The tribal men, of this coastal land, other than Minicoy, adorn themselves in white or coloured Lungi. Not only men, but also women tie a silver thread round the waist. This act as a girdle for a senior person, who pulls the Lungi through the string to hold it firmly round his waist. Normally, for daily wear and tear, men do not cover themselves upwards the waist. However, in ceremonial participation, they flaunt themselves in cotton or silk drapery, invested with impressive embroidery. This cloth is passed around the shoulders. The younger generation, exhibit themselves in shirts. Costumes of Lakshadweep for Women The traditional costume of women comprises of ‘Kachi’, a rectangular piece of cloth, but unstitched unlike that of men. Kachis are, often made of silk fabric. The shades of Kachis are generally black or white with black borders. However, the silk Kachis commonly come up in red body with contrasting black borders. The jacket, on the front side, contains fine- embroidery, done with glass or gilt bits. It is topped off by a full-sleeves close-fitting jacket around the waist. The colour-smeared , known as ‘Thattam’, serves as a wonderful headdress. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN LAKSHADWEEP Festivals celebrated in Lakshadweep are: • Id-Ul-Fitr • Bakrid • Milad-Ul-Nabi • Muharram PUDUCHERRY

• PUDUCHERRY (formerly known as Pondicherry) is a union territory of India. It was formed out of four exclaves of former French India, namely Puducherry, Karaikal, Yanam and Mahe. It is named after the largest district Puducherry. Historically known as Pondicherry (Pāṇṭiccēri), the territory changed its official name to Puducherry (Putuccēri) on 20 September 2006. • Puducherry lies in the southern part of the Indian Peninsula. The areas of Puducherry and Karaikal are bound by the state of Tamil Nadu, while Yanam and Mayyazhi (Mahe) are enclosed by the states of Andhra Pradesh and Kerala respectively. Puducherry is the 29th most populous and the third most densely populated state/union territory in India. It has a GDP of ₹0.21 lakh crore (US$3.1 billion) and ranks 27th in India. VARIETIES OF FOOD IN PUDUCHERRY Puducherry is known for its food natuarally. Some of the food they eat are: 1) Since the island has a close proximity with Kerala, hence the cuisines reflect the taste of the inhabitants of that place. The local food of Lakshadweep primarily comprises of coconut and sea fish. The people of the island have a great inclination towards the coconut water as it is the most abundant aerated drink of the place. 2) Since the island has a close proximity with Kerala, hence the cuisines reflect the taste of the inhabitants of that place. The local food of Lakshadweep primarily comprises of coconut and sea fish. The people of the island have a great inclination towards the coconut water as it is the most abundant aerated drink of the place. COSTUMES PEOPLE WEAR IN PUDUCHERRY Traditional costumes of men in puducherry: These days, men can be seen in shirts and pants. Policemen wear in red colour. Traditional costumes of women in puducherry: Women like to wear saris with blouse and long skirts. Females avoid excessively short and beach wears as they can cause unwanted attention of people. Even nudity is not permissible in Pondicherry. The indigenous individuals of the Pondicherry have Tamil origin. However, it is also a home to people from other states too along with Europeans. The influence of France still remains in Pondicherry. FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN PUDUCHERRY Festivals celebrated in Puducherry are: • Pongal • Mothers Birth Anniversary • Ratri • Good Friday • Akshaya Thrithiya • Bastille Day • Republic Day • Masi Magam • Holi Festival • Tamil New Year • Villianur Temple Festival • Aadi Amavasai THANK YOU