Festivals play an important part in the life of a Hindu. These are the periods of most enjoyment. The joy of worshipping together and enjoying to the fullest is brought about by the spiritual meanings of each festival. The Festivals are associated with Hindu mythology and also mark participation in the productive mutual activities.
Not only mythology but seasons too play a great role in the festivals. The spring festivals, the harvest festivals and the other festivals related to agriculture show the bond between man and nature. Even though Durga Puja and Diwali have mythological stories associated with them they are also the autumn festivals, welcoming the harvesting season of winter.
The culture behind these enjoyable festivals has its roots in age-old traditions and the happiness of the common man. In primitive society relationships corresponded with the forces of production. The festivals revealed the harmony between beings without any veils. But with the passage of time the social relations grew more complex. Thus, the festivals slowly lost their folk traditions, although in many regions (such as the north-eastern part of India) the festivals still exhibit folk-characteristics by including folk-songs, folk dramas, folk-dances and the rituals linked with folk-beliefs.
Even though the festivals in today's world have lost a good amount of their significance in the original perspective they still play a definite role in keeping society integrated. The Hindu Society is divided into various groups and classes and is quite antagonistic. This differentiation often creates confusion and quarrels but the festivals play a very important role in maintaining social harmony.