Mala, symbol of luck, happiness and respect

Streets are full of marigold garlands on sale at the Divali eve

Flowers in Hinduism are symbol of creation and regeneration. Perhaps that is why they are the most common decoration material in India and Nepal. And the most popular form of the floral decorations is the garland, or flower necklace, called mala in Nepal and the northern India, and malai in the southern India. During the festival season houses are decorated with flower garlands, they are offered to a temple deity, they are presented to honorary guests as a sign of respect. During the wedding ceremony both bride and groom wear them as good-luck symbols. After a theatrical performance, appreciation to an actor, dancer or musician is expressed by the bestowal of a flower garland.

Kids dressed as Hindu deities

Children dressed as Krishna and Radha

In India and neighbouring Hindu countries there is tradition to dress small children as deities. Usually it happens during big festivals. Most often depicted gods and goddesses are Shiva and Parvati, Krishna and Radha, Vishnu and Hanuman. Here are a few photographs of kids dressed up for different festivals in Nepal.