Gajan is an annual folk festival celebrated in West Bengal, India, usually during the Bengali month of Chaitra ( March – April), the last month of the Bengali calendar. The festival has a deep connection to Hindu mythology and is celebrated to honor Lord Shiva. It is a week-long festival that culminates in a grand procession on the last day. Kandi in Murshidabad is famous for its Gajan festival, where devotees paint their faces and body with vermilion, wear flowers in their head and waist and dance with the human skull. During the festival, devotees perform various rituals, including fasting, bathing in holy rivers and offering puja to Lord Shiva. One of the most striking features of the Gajan festival is the portrayal of various mythological characters by the devotees. They dress up as gods and goddesses, demons, and animals, and perform various rituals and dances, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere. The Gajan festival is not just a religious festival but also a celebration of the local culture and traditions. It is an opportunity for people to come together, irrespective of their caste and creed, to celebrate and enjoy festivities. The festival is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of West Bengal and a source of pride for the people of the region.
