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Lesson Transcript

Culture Class: Holidays in India Lesson 9 - Easter
Hello, and welcome to the Culture Class- Holidays in India Series at HindiPod101.com. In this series, we’re exploring the traditions behind Hindi holidays and observances. I’m Eric, and you're listening to Season 1, Lesson 9 - Easter. In Hindi, it’s called Easter.
Under the Christian tradition, it’s believed that Jesus Christ returned to life after his death. The day of His rebirth is celebrated by all Christians with great fervor at the end of March or in April on the day of Easter. In this lesson, we will get into how Easter is celebrated in India.
Now, before we get into more detail, do you know the answer to this question-
In India, people traditionally give a colorful object to each other as a present on Easter – What is this object?
If you don't already know, you’ll find out a bit later. Keep listening.
Most Christians in India are Catholic and reside in places such as Mumbai, Goa, Kerala and the north eastern states. They are known to celebrate Easter with great enthusiasm. People go to church, or Girja Ghar, on Easter Sunday and offer prayers. In India, there’s no prevalent tradition of making Easter eggs like in some western countries, but some people do buy them from the market and distribute them among children. It is also common for people to give presents, or in Hindi, Uphaar, on this day.
Easter is probably celebrated with the most enthusiasm in Goa. Massive beach-side carnivals are organized on this occasion, which feature music and dance, stage plays, or in Hindi Rangmunch ke Naatak, and other entertainment. People bake delicious cakes, pies, and other sweet treats, and gift holy crosses to each other. There are many special Easter baking recipes in India, and a variety of special cakes and desserts are available in the market at this time.
Easter isn’t as popularly celebrated a festival as Christmas, but it is common for people from Catholic households to host big Easter parties or Easter Ki Parties on this day to share in the joy of the rebirth of Christ.
Now it's time to answer our quiz question-
In India, people traditionally give a colorful object to each other as a present on Easter – What is this object?
People offer each other colorful lanterns and lamps as Easter gifts. This is done for two reasons. The first is that lanterns are ‘bringers of light’, thus symbolizing that the giver wants to bring brightness and joy to the the receiver’s life. The second is that at this time, many Hindus celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights, and thus, Christians in India try to bring this part of their heritage into their faith.
How did you like this lesson? Did you learn anything interesting?
How is Easter celebrated in your country?
Leave us a comment telling us at HindiPod101.com!
And we’ll see you in the next lesson!

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