One of the chief festivals celebrated on this holy land is Basant Panchami. It is also called as the spring festival. It is believed that when Adi Shankaracharya visited Rishikesh he sanctified the idol of Lord Vishnu in the Place now known as Bharat Mandir. This happened in the 9th century. This time is celebrated as Basant Panchami. Many yoga enthusiasts from around the world do visit the International Yoga Week, usually celebrated from February 2-7 every year. The festival owes a lot credit for making Yoga popular around the world. This ancient form of free hand is the form of exercise that is considered to be most body friendly and free of side effects. Some of its forms are also helpful in curing diseases. Besides, there is the other Hindu festivals celebrated with full enthusiasm and by heart in this small and sacred piece of India.
