At the A1 level, you can think of 'पर्व' (Parv) as another word for 'holiday' or 'festival.' It is a special day when people do not go to work or school and instead celebrate with their families. You might learn it in the context of 'Happy Festival!' (पर्व की शुभकामनाएँ!). At this stage, just remember that it is a masculine noun. If you see 'पर्व' on a calendar, it means there is a celebration. You can use it simply like 'आज पर्व है' (Today is a festival). It is a good word to know because India has many such days. Even if you use 'त्यौहार' (tyauhaar) more often, recognizing 'parv' will help you understand signs and greetings. Focus on the fact that it is a 'big day' for people. You will mostly see it used with names of festivals like 'Diwali parv' or 'Holi parv'.
At the A2 level, you should start distinguishing between 'पर्व' and other related words. 'पर्व' is slightly more formal than 'त्यौहार'. You will notice it in short news clips or formal invitations. You can use it in simple sentences to describe your favorite celebrations: 'मेरा पसंदीदा पर्व होली है' (My favorite festival is Holi). You should also learn the basic grammar: 'यह पर्व' (this festival) and 'वह पर्व' (that festival). At this level, you might encounter the term 'राष्ट्रीय पर्व' (Rashtriya Parv), which means National Festival. India has three of them: Independence Day, Republic Day, and Gandhi Jayanti. Knowing this word helps you talk about the culture of India more accurately. You can also start using verbs like 'मनाना' (to celebrate) with it: 'हम पर्व मनाते हैं' (We celebrate the festival).
As a B1 learner, you should understand that 'पर्व' carries a sense of tradition and sanctity. It isn't just a day off; it's a day of cultural significance. You should be comfortable using it in more complex sentences and understanding its role in formal Hindi. For example, 'पर्वों का हमारे जीवन में बहुत महत्व है' (Festivals have great importance in our lives). You should notice how 'parv' is used to describe specific religious periods like 'नवरात्रि पर्व'. You can also use it to discuss the values associated with these days, such as 'unity' (एकता) or 'joy' (हर्ष). This is the level where you should start using the oblique plural form 'पर्वों' correctly with postpositions. You should also be able to distinguish 'parv' from 'utsav' (celebration), realizing that 'parv' is usually a recurring, calendar-based event.
At the B2 level, you can explore the deeper nuances of 'पर्व'. You should understand its Sanskrit roots and how it relates to the concept of time and cycles. You can use it in discussions about sociology or history: 'भारतीय समाज में पर्वों की भूमिका' (The role of festivals in Indian society). You will encounter it in literature and formal speeches where the speaker wants to emphasize the 'holiness' (पावनता) of the occasion. You should be able to use collocations like 'पावन पर्व' or 'महान पर्व' fluently. At this stage, you might also learn about its use in epics like the Mahabharata to denote chapters, which adds a literary dimension to your vocabulary. You should also be able to explain the difference between a 'parv' and a 'samaroh' (ceremony) in detail to others.
At the C1 level, you should have a sophisticated grasp of 'पर्व'. You can analyze its usage in classical versus modern Hindi. You should be aware of how the word evokes a sense of collective memory and identity. In high-level writing, you might use 'पर्व' to discuss the philosophical transition points in life or history. You can use it metaphorically to describe a 'turning point' in a narrative or a person's life, reflecting its original Sanskrit meaning of a 'joint' or 'node'. Your vocabulary should include various compound words and formal expressions involving 'parv'. You should also be able to discuss the commercialization of 'parv' in the modern world using academic Hindi, contrasting the traditional 'pavitrata' (purity) with modern 'upbhoktavad' (consumerism).
At the C2 level, you possess a near-native understanding of 'पर्व'. You can appreciate the word's etymological journey from Vedic Sanskrit to modern standard Hindi. You can use it to delve into the complexities of the Indian calendar system (Panchang) and how specific 'parvas' are calculated based on astronomical alignments. You can critique literary works like the Mahabharata, discussing the thematic significance of why certain sections are called specific 'Parvas'. Your usage is indistinguishable from a highly educated native speaker, employing the word with precision in legal, religious, and literary contexts. You understand the subtle socio-political implications when a government labels an event a 'parv' vs an 'utsav'. You can speak eloquently on the 'parva-parampara' (tradition of festivals) and its impact on the Indian psyche.

पर्व in 30 Seconds

  • A formal word for 'festival' or 'holy day'.
  • Masculine noun of Sanskrit origin.
  • Used for religious, cultural, and national celebrations.
  • Also means 'chapter' in ancient Indian epics.

The Hindi word पर्व (Parv) is a profound and multi-layered term that transcends the simple English translation of 'festival' or 'holiday.' In its primary sense, it refers to a day or a specific period of celebration, often rooted in deep religious, spiritual, or historical significance. Unlike the more common word 'त्यौहार' (Tyauhaar), which is frequently used for any festive occasion, 'पर्व' carries a weight of sanctity and formal tradition. It is derived from the Sanskrit root meaning a 'joint' or 'knot,' symbolizing a pivotal point in time or a transition between phases, much like a node on a stalk of bamboo. This etymological connection highlights that a parv is seen as a junction where the divine and the mundane meet, or where historical milestones are commemorated with solemnity and joy.

Spiritual Context
In Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, 'parv' is used to denote holy days that align with lunar cycles or solar transitions. For instance, 'महाशिवरात्रि' (Mahashivratri) is described as a 'महापर्व' (Mahaparv - a grand festival). The term implies that the day is not just for merry-making but for reflection, ritual, and community gathering.
National Context
The term is also used for secular but highly significant national days. Independence Day and Republic Day are referred to as 'राष्ट्रीय पर्व' (Rashtriya Parv - National Festivals), indicating that these days are sacred to the identity of the nation.
Literary Context
Interestingly, in ancient Indian epics like the Mahabharata, the major sections or chapters are called 'Parvas' (e.g., Adi Parva, Sabha Parva). This usage reinforces the idea of a 'parv' being a significant structural segment or a turning point in a narrative.

दीपावली प्रकाश का एक पावन पर्व है। (Deepavali is a holy festival of light.)

When people use this word, they are often speaking with a sense of reverence. You will hear it in news broadcasts, formal speeches, and religious sermons. If someone says 'त्यौहार आ रहा है' (A festival is coming), it sounds casual. But if they say 'पर्व की तैयारियाँ शुरू हो गई हैं' (The preparations for the festival have begun), it sounds more organized and respectful. It is a word that connects the speaker to their heritage and the cyclic nature of time. In modern Hindi, while 'tyauhaar' is the go-to word for daily conversation, 'parv' remains the choice for invitations, official greetings, and describing the essence of the celebration itself.

छठ पर्व बिहार में बहुत श्रद्धा से मनाया जाता है। (Chhath festival is celebrated with great devotion in Bihar.)

Furthermore, the word is often modified by adjectives to specify the nature of the event. 'धार्मिक पर्व' (Religious festival), 'सांस्कृतिक पर्व' (Cultural festival), and 'ऐतिहासिक पर्व' (Historical festival) are common collocations. It is important to note that 'parv' is a masculine noun. Therefore, adjectives and verbs must agree with its gender. For example, 'यह पर्व' (This festival) instead of 'यह पर्वी'. The plural form remains 'पर्व' in the direct case but changes to 'पर्वों' in the oblique case (e.g., 'पर्वों का महत्व' - The importance of festivals).

होली रंगों का पर्व है जो भाईचारे का संदेश देता है। (Holi is the festival of colors that gives the message of brotherhood.)

स्वतंत्रता दिवस हमारा राष्ट्रीय पर्व है। (Independence Day is our national festival.)

कुंभ का पर्व बारह वर्षों में एक बार आता है। (The Kumbh festival comes once in twelve years.)

Using the word पर्व (Parv) correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical role as a masculine noun and its stylistic preference in formal or semi-formal contexts. In Hindi syntax, 'पर्व' usually functions as the subject or the object of a sentence, and it frequently appears in possessive constructions using 'का' (ka).

Subjective Use
When 'पर्व' is the subject, it often describes the nature or arrival of a celebration. Example: 'यह पर्व हमें एकता सिखाता है' (This festival teaches us unity).
Objective Use
When it is the object, it usually follows verbs like 'मनाना' (to celebrate) or 'आयोजित करना' (to organize). Example: 'हम इस पर्व को हर्षोल्लास से मनाएंगे' (We will celebrate this festival with great joy).
Possessive Construction
It is very common to link 'पर्व' with a specific name or theme using 'का'. Example: 'विजय का पर्व' (The festival of victory) or 'दीपावली का पर्व' (The festival of Deepavali).

One of the most important aspects of using 'पर्व' is selecting the right adjectives. Because it is a formal word, it pairs well with formal adjectives. Instead of saying 'अच्छा पर्व' (good festival), speakers often say 'पावन पर्व' (holy/sacred festival) or 'शुभ पर्व' (auspicious festival). These combinations elevate the register of the speech. In terms of verb agreement, since 'पर्व' is masculine, you would say 'पर्व मनाया गया' (The festival was celebrated) and not 'मनाई गई'.

पूरा देश इस पर्व की प्रतीक्षा कर रहा है। (The whole country is waiting for this festival.)

In plural contexts, remember the oblique case. If you are saying 'During festivals...', the Hindi translation would be 'पर्वों के दौरान...' (Parvon ke dauran). The 'ओं' ending is added because of the postposition 'के'. If there is no postposition, the plural remains 'पर्व'. For example, 'भारत में कई पर्व मनाए जाते हैं' (Many festivals are celebrated in India).

प्रत्येक पर्व का अपना एक विशेष महत्व होता है। (Every festival has its own special importance.)

हमें इन पर्वों की मर्यादा बनाए रखनी चाहिए। (We should maintain the dignity of these festivals.)

यह पर्व बुराई पर अच्छाई की जीत का प्रतीक है। (This festival is a symbol of the victory of good over evil.)

आने वाला पर्व सबके लिए खुशियाँ लाए। (May the upcoming festival bring happiness for everyone.)

While you might use 'छुट्टी' (chutti - holiday) or 'त्यौहार' (tyauhaar - festival) in a casual chat with friends, पर्व (Parv) is the word you will encounter in more structured and high-stakes environments. Understanding where this word lives will help you grasp the cultural landscape of Hindi-speaking regions.

News and Media
News anchors frequently use 'पर्व' when reporting on national celebrations. Headlines like 'देशभर में हर्षोल्लास के साथ मनाया गया गणतंत्र पर्व' (Republic festival celebrated with enthusiasm across the country) are standard. It lends a sense of gravity and patriotism to the reporting.
Religious Gatherings (Satsangs)
In spiritual discourses, 'पर्व' is used to explain the metaphysical significance of certain days. A priest or guru might say, 'इस पावन पर्व पर दान का विशेष महत्व है' (On this holy festival, charity has special importance).
Invitation Cards and Formal Greetings
Wedding invitations or formal event flyers often use 'पर्व'. For instance, a cultural event might be titled 'सांस्कृतिक पर्व 2024'. Even corporate emails wishing employees for Diwali might use 'दीपावली के इस पावन पर्व पर...' to sound professional yet warm.

You will also find 'पर्व' in the names of specific festivals that are almost never called 'tyauhaar'. For example, 'छठ पर्व' (Chhath Parv) is the standard name for the major festival in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Calling it 'Chhath Tyauhaar' would feel slightly off to a native speaker. Similarly, 'महाकुंभ पर्व' is the formal designation for the Great Kumbh Mela. In the literary world, as mentioned before, the 'Mahabharata' is divided into eighteen 'Parvas'. So, a student of literature or history will encounter this word constantly as a marker of structural division.

आकाशवाणी पर आज इस पर्व का विशेष कार्यक्रम है। (There is a special program on All India Radio today for this festival.)

प्रधानमंत्री ने देशवासियों को इस पर्व की बधाई दी। (The Prime Minister congratulated the countrymen on this festival.)

यह पर्व हमारी संस्कृति की धरोहर है। (This festival is the heritage of our culture.)

स्कूलों में इस पर्व पर अवकाश रहता है। (There is a holiday in schools on this festival.)

उन्होंने इस पर्व के अवसर पर नए वस्त्र पहने। (He wore new clothes on the occasion of this festival.)

Even though 'पर्व' is a straightforward noun, learners often make subtle errors in its usage, gender agreement, or contextual application. Avoiding these mistakes will make your Hindi sound more natural and sophisticated.

Gender Confusion
The most common mistake is treating 'पर्व' as a feminine noun. Many Hindi learners assume abstract concepts or festivals might be feminine. However, 'पर्व' is strictly masculine. Mistake: 'यह अच्छी पर्व है' (This is a good festival). Correct: 'यह अच्छा पर्व है'.
Overuse in Casual Speech
Using 'पर्व' when talking about a simple weekend party or a birthday is technically incorrect. 'पर्व' implies a cultural or religious tradition. For a birthday, use 'जन्मदिन' (Janmadin) or 'उत्सव' (Utsav). Calling a birthday a 'parv' sounds overly dramatic or sarcastic.
Confusing with 'Parva' (Chapter)
Advanced learners might confuse the modern meaning (festival) with the classical meaning (chapter). Unless you are discussing the Mahabharata, 'parv' always means festival. Don't use it to mean 'chapter' in a modern book; use 'अध्याय' (Adhyay) instead.

Another mistake involves the plural oblique form. When saying 'Among the festivals...', learners often forget to change 'पर्व' to 'पर्वों'. Mistake: 'पर्व में...' (In the festival - singular) vs 'पर्वों में...' (Among the festivals - plural). If you are referring to multiple festivals, the 'on' (ओं) ending is mandatory before a postposition. Additionally, while 'पर्व' and 'त्यौहार' are synonyms, they are not always interchangeable in fixed phrases. For example, 'गणतंत्र दिवस' is always a 'राष्ट्रीय पर्व', never a 'राष्ट्रीय त्यौहार' in official documents.

गलत: दीपावली एक बड़ी पर्व है। (Wrong: Diwali is a big (fem) festival.)

सही: दीपावली एक बड़ा पर्व है। (Right: Diwali is a big (masc) festival.)

सावधानी: 'पर्व' का प्रयोग किसी व्यक्ति के व्यक्तिगत उत्सव के लिए न करें।

ध्यान दें: 'पर्व' और 'पूर्व' (before/east) में अंतर है, उच्चारण पर ध्यान दें।

गलत: सभी पर्व का सम्मान करो। (Wrong: Respect all festival - needs oblique plural.)

Hindi has a rich vocabulary for celebrations. While पर्व (Parv) is formal and sacred, other words carry different nuances of mood and setting. Understanding these will help you choose the right word for the right moment.

त्यौहार (Tyauhaar)
The most common word for 'festival'. It is neutral in register and can be used for anything from Diwali to a local kite-flying day. If you are unsure which word to use, 'tyauhaar' is always a safe bet. It focuses more on the 'celebration' aspect than the 'sacredness'.
उत्सव (Utsav)
This word means 'celebration' or 'festivity'. It is often used for events that are joyful but not necessarily recurring religious holidays. A 'वार्षिकोत्सव' (Varshikotsav) is an annual function at a school. It implies a sense of excitement and event-based gathering.
समारोह (Samaroh)
This refers to a 'ceremony' or a 'function'. It is highly formal. You would use 'samaroh' for an award ceremony (पुरस्कार समारोह) or an inauguration. It describes the organized event rather than the day itself.
मेला (Mela)
A 'fair'. While a 'parv' is the time/day, a 'mela' is the physical gathering, market, and carnival that often accompanies it. For example, the Kumbh Mela is the gathering that happens during the Kumbh Parv.

In summary, use 'Parv' for the sacred/national day, 'Tyauhaar' for the general holiday, 'Utsav' for the joy of celebration, and 'Samaroh' for the formal event. For example, during the 'Deepavali Parv', a family might have a 'Laxmi Pujan Samaroh' and enjoy the 'Utsav' with neighbors. Learning to layer these words correctly will instantly make you sound like a native speaker who understands the cultural fabric of India.

तुलना: 'पर्व' (Sacred/Formal) vs 'त्यौहार' (General/Common).

तुलना: 'उत्सव' (Celebration) vs 'समारोह' (Ceremony).

पर्यायवाची: पर्व, त्यौहार, उत्सव, पर्वकाल।

विपरीतार्थक: शोक, मातम, साधारण दिन।

संदर्भ: राष्ट्रीय पर्व देश की एकता को मजबूत करते हैं।

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

Because 'parv' meant a 'joint' or 'division,' the ancient Indians used it to describe the phases of the moon (the 'joints' of the month). Since festivals were held on these specific lunar phases, the word eventually came to mean the festival itself!

Pronunciation Guide

UK /pərv/
US /pɑːrv/
The stress is on the single syllable 'Parv'. It is a crisp, quick word.
Rhymes With
गर्व (Garv - Pride) खर्व (Kharv - Dwarf/Billion) सर्व (Sarv - All) अर्व (Arv - Horse) स्वर्व (Swarv - Sound) पर्व (Parv - Festival) नर्व (Narv - Nerve - loanword) कर्व (Karv - Curve - loanword)
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing it as 'Par-va' (adding an extra 'a' at the end).
  • Confusing it with 'Poorv' (meaning East or Before).
  • Failing to roll the 'r' slightly.
  • Pronouncing 'v' too harshly like an English 'f'.
  • Nasalizing the vowel when it shouldn't be.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to recognize in texts, but can be confused with similar-looking words like 'पूर्व'.

Writing 4/5

Requires knowledge of masculine gender agreement and oblique plural forms.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation is simple, but choosing between 'parv' and 'tyauhaar' requires cultural context.

Listening 3/5

Commonly heard in formal media and announcements.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

दिन (Day) खुशी (Happiness) भारत (India) नया (New) मनाना (To celebrate)

Learn Next

परंपरा (Tradition) संस्कृति (Culture) धार्मिक (Religious) श्रद्धा (Devotion) शुभकामना (Greeting)

Advanced

अनुष्ठान (Ritual) पौराणिक (Mythological) अध्यात्म (Spirituality) हर्षोल्लास (Great joy) प्रासंगिकता (Relevance)

Grammar to Know

Masculine Noun Agreement

पर्व (masc) -> 'अच्छा' पर्व, 'बड़ा' पर्व, 'मनाया' गया।

Oblique Case Pluralization

पर्व -> पर्वों (used before postpositions like का, में, से, को).

Compound Noun Formation

Combining 'महा' (great) + 'पर्व' = 'महापर्व'.

Postposition Usage with Time

पर्व 'पर' (On the festival) vs पर्व 'के दौरान' (During the festival).

Adjective-Noun Order

Formal adjectives usually precede 'पर्व' (e.g., पावन पर्व).

Examples by Level

1

आज एक बड़ा पर्व है।

Today is a big festival.

'बड़ा' (big) is masculine to match 'पर्व'.

2

यह कौन सा पर्व है?

Which festival is this?

Interrogative sentence using 'कौन सा'.

3

पर्व की शुभकामनाएँ!

Greetings of the festival!

Common greeting phrase.

4

मुझे पर्व पसंद हैं।

I like festivals.

Plural 'पर्व' as the object.

5

पर्व पर छुट्टी है।

There is a holiday on the festival.

Use of 'पर' (on).

6

होली रंगों का पर्व है।

Holi is the festival of colors.

Possessive 'का' linking 'रंगों' and 'पर्व'.

7

यह एक पुराना पर्व है।

This is an old festival.

Adjective 'पुराना' matches masculine 'पर्व'.

8

हम पर्व मनाते हैं।

We celebrate the festival.

Simple present tense verb 'मनाते हैं'.

1

भारत में कई पर्व मनाए जाते हैं।

Many festivals are celebrated in India.

Passive construction 'मनाए जाते हैं'.

2

अगला पर्व कब है?

When is the next festival?

Adjective 'अगला' (next) in masculine form.

3

यह पर्व पाँच दिनों तक चलता है।

This festival lasts for five days.

Verb 'चलना' meaning 'to last/continue'.

4

लोग पर्व के लिए नए कपड़े खरीदते हैं।

People buy new clothes for the festival.

Use of 'के लिए' (for).

5

दीपावली खुशियों का पर्व है।

Deepavali is the festival of happiness.

Abstract noun 'खुशियों' in possessive.

6

क्या आप यह पर्व मनाते हैं?

Do you celebrate this festival?

Direct question with 'क्या'.

7

पर्व के दिन घर सजाया जाता है।

The house is decorated on the day of the festival.

Passive voice 'सजाया जाता है'.

8

यह पर्व भाई-बहन के प्रेम का है।

This festival is of brother-sister love.

Compound noun 'भाई-बहन'.

1

पर्वों का हमारे समाज में गहरा प्रभाव है।

Festivals have a deep impact on our society.

Oblique plural 'पर्वों' with 'का'.

2

इस पावन पर्व पर हम शांति की कामना करते हैं।

On this holy festival, we wish for peace.

Formal adjective 'पावन' (holy).

3

छठ पर्व की तैयारियाँ ज़ोरों पर हैं।

Preparations for the Chhath festival are in full swing.

Idiom 'ज़ोरों पर होना' (in full swing).

4

हर पर्व के पीछे एक पौराणिक कथा होती है।

Behind every festival, there is a mythological story.

Postposition 'के पीछे' (behind).

5

राष्ट्रीय पर्व हमें देशभक्ति की प्रेरणा देते हैं।

National festivals give us inspiration for patriotism.

Subject-verb agreement with plural 'पर्व'.

6

गाँवों में पर्व और भी उत्साह से मनाए जाते हैं।

In villages, festivals are celebrated with even more enthusiasm.

Comparative 'और भी' (even more).

7

पर्वों के दौरान बाज़ारों में बहुत भीड़ होती है।

During festivals, there is a lot of crowd in the markets.

Oblique plural 'पर्वों' with 'के दौरान'.

8

यह पर्व नई फसल की खुशी में मनाया जाता है।

This festival is celebrated in the joy of the new harvest.

Reasoning phrase 'की खुशी में'.

1

पर्वों की सांस्कृतिक विरासत को बचाना आवश्यक है।

It is necessary to save the cultural heritage of festivals.

Complex noun phrase 'सांस्कृतिक विरासत'.

2

आज का दिन एक ऐतिहासिक पर्व के रूप में याद किया जाएगा।

Today will be remembered as a historical festival.

Future passive 'याद किया जाएगा'.

3

इस पर्व का आध्यात्मिक महत्व बहुत गहरा है।

The spiritual significance of this festival is very deep.

Adjective 'आध्यात्मिक' (spiritual).

4

महाभारत के विभिन्न पर्वों में जीवन का दर्शन छिपा है।

The philosophy of life is hidden in various chapters of the Mahabharata.

Using 'parv' in its literary 'chapter' sense.

5

पर्व हमें अपनी जड़ों से जुड़ने का अवसर प्रदान करते हैं।

Festivals provide us an opportunity to connect with our roots.

Formal verb 'प्रदान करना' (to provide).

6

आधुनिकता के दौर में पर्वों का स्वरूप बदल रहा है।

In the era of modernity, the nature of festivals is changing.

Abstract noun 'स्वरूप' (form/nature).

7

यह पर्व सामाजिक समरसता का प्रतीक माना जाता है।

This festival is considered a symbol of social harmony.

Formal term 'सामाजिक समरसता' (social harmony).

8

पर्वों के माध्यम से हम अपनी परंपराओं को जीवित रखते हैं।

Through festivals, we keep our traditions alive.

Instrumental phrase 'के माध्यम से' (through).

1

पर्व मात्र उत्सव नहीं, बल्कि सामूहिक चेतना का प्रकटीकरण हैं।

Festivals are not just celebrations, but a manifestation of collective consciousness.

Use of 'मात्र' (only) and 'बल्कि' (but rather).

2

भारतीय काल-गणना में प्रत्येक पर्व का ज्योतिषीय आधार होता है।

In Indian time-keeping, every festival has an astrological basis.

Technical term 'ज्योतिषीय आधार'.

3

पर्वों की सार्थकता मानवीय मूल्यों के संरक्षण में निहित है।

The relevance of festivals lies in the preservation of human values.

Formal verb 'निहित होना' (to be inherent/lie in).

4

साहित्यिक पर्वों ने लेखकों को एक नया मंच प्रदान किया है।

Literary festivals have provided a new platform for writers.

Adjective 'साहित्यिक' (literary).

5

क्या पर्वों का बाज़ारीकरण उनकी मौलिकता को नष्ट कर रहा है?

Is the commercialization of festivals destroying their originality?

Abstract noun 'बाज़ारीकरण' (commercialization).

6

पर्वों का उल्लास एकाकीपन को दूर करने में सहायक होता है।

The joy of festivals is helpful in removing loneliness.

Gerundial phrase 'दूर करने में'.

7

विभिन्न संस्कृतियों के पर्वों में अद्भुत समानताएँ पाई जाती हैं।

Wonderful similarities are found in the festivals of different cultures.

Passive voice 'पाई जाती हैं'.

8

पर्वों की रीतियाँ पीढ़ी-दर-पीढ़ी हस्तांतरित होती रहती हैं।

The rituals of festivals keep getting transferred generation after generation.

Compound adverb 'पीढ़ी-दर-पीढ़ी'.

1

पर्वों की दार्शनिक व्याख्या जीवन की नश्वरता और आनंद के द्वंद्व को सुलझाती है।

The philosophical interpretation of festivals resolves the conflict between the transience of life and joy.

Highly formal vocabulary: 'नश्वरता' (transience), 'द्वंद्व' (conflict).

2

ऋतु-परिवर्तन और पर्वों का अंतर्संबंध कृषि-प्रधान संस्कृति का आधार है।

The interconnection between seasonal changes and festivals is the basis of an agrarian culture.

Technical compound 'अंतर्संबंध' (interconnection).

3

पर्वों के अनुष्ठानिक पक्ष में छिपे प्रतीकों का मनोवैज्ञानिक विश्लेषण अत्यंत रोचक है।

The psychological analysis of symbols hidden in the ritualistic aspect of festivals is extremely interesting.

Adjective 'अनुष्ठानिक' (ritualistic).

4

वैश्वीकरण के इस युग में पर्वों की प्रासंगिकता पर पुनर्विचार आवश्यक है।

In this era of globalization, a reconsideration of the relevance of festivals is necessary.

Formal noun 'पुनर्विचार' (reconsideration).

5

पर्वों की पावनता को बनाए रखना आधुनिक समाज के लिए एक चुनौती है।

Maintaining the sanctity of festivals is a challenge for modern society.

Infinitive as subject 'बनाए रखना'.

6

पर्वों का मूल तत्व आत्मिक शुद्धि और लोक-कल्याण में समाहित है।

The core element of festivals is contained in spiritual purification and public welfare.

Compound word 'लोक-कल्याण' (public welfare).

7

महाकाव्यीय 'पर्व' संरचना भारतीय आख्यान कला की अद्वितीय विशेषता है।

The epic 'Parva' structure is a unique feature of Indian narrative art.

Adjective 'महाकाव्यीय' (epic-like).

8

पर्वों के माध्यम से व्यक्त होने वाला सामूहिक उल्लास सामाजिक ताने-बाने को सुदृढ़ करता है।

The collective joy expressed through festivals strengthens the social fabric.

Metaphorical phrase 'सामाजिक ताने-बाने' (social fabric).

Common Collocations

पावन पर्व
राष्ट्रीय पर्व
सांस्कृतिक पर्व
पर्व के अवसर पर
महान पर्व
पर्व की शुभकामनाएँ
धार्मिक पर्व
पर्व का महत्व
पर्व मनाना
ऐतिहासिक पर्व

Common Phrases

पर्व की पूर्व संध्या

— The eve of the festival. Used to describe the night before the main celebration.

पर्व की पूर्व संध्या पर आतिशबाजी हुई।

पर्वों का देश

— The land of festivals. Often used to describe India's rich culture.

भारत पर्वों का देश है।

पर्व का उल्लास

— The joy/enthusiasm of the festival. Describes the festive mood.

चारों ओर पर्व का उल्लास है।

पर्व की मर्यादा

— The dignity or sanctity of the festival. Used when asking people to behave respectfully.

हमें पर्व की मर्यादा रखनी चाहिए।

पर्व विशेष

— Festival special. Used in media for special programs or offers.

आज टीवी पर पर्व विशेष कार्यक्रम है।

पर्व की बेला

— The time of the festival. A poetic way to say festive season.

पर्व की बेला आ गई है।

पर्व का आगमन

— The arrival of the festival. Formal way to say the festival is starting.

पर्व के आगमन की तैयारी करो।

पर्व का संदेश

— The message of the festival. Refers to the moral or lesson of the celebration.

इस पर्व का संदेश भाईचारा है।

पर्वों की कतार

— A series of festivals. Used when many festivals come one after another.

अक्टूबर में पर्वों की कतार लगी है।

पर्व का उपहार

— Festival gift. Used when giving presents during celebrations.

यह आपके लिए पर्व का उपहार है।

Often Confused With

पर्व vs पूर्व (Poorv)

Poorv means 'East' or 'Before'. It sounds similar to Parv but has a long 'oo' sound.

पर्व vs पर्वत (Parvat)

Parvat means 'Mountain'. It starts with the same syllable but is a much longer word.

पर्व vs पैर (Pair)

Pair means 'Foot'. Some beginners might mishear the 'p' sound.

Idioms & Expressions

"पर्व मनाना"

— To celebrate a festival. This is the standard verbal phrase.

हम सब मिलकर पर्व मनाएंगे।

Neutral
"खुशियों का पर्व"

— A festival of happiness. Used to describe a very joyful occasion.

शादी हमारे लिए खुशियों का पर्व है।

Informal/Poetic
"पर्व का रंग चढ़ना"

— To be immersed in the festive spirit.

पूरे शहर पर पर्व का रंग चढ़ गया है।

Informal
"पर्व की रौनक"

— The brightness/glory of the festival.

बाज़ारों में पर्व की रौनक देखते ही बनती है।

Neutral
"पर्व को फीका करना"

— To dampen the festive spirit or make it dull.

बारिश ने पर्व को फीका कर दिया।

Informal
"पर्व की मिठास"

— The sweetness of the festival. Often refers to both sweets and pleasant feelings.

पर्व की मिठास सबके साथ बाँटें।

Poetic
"पर्व का चाँद"

— Referring to the moon that marks a festival (like Eid).

पर्व का चाँद दिख गया है।

Religious
"पर्व की भेंट"

— An offering or gift given specifically for a festival.

यह मेरी तरफ से पर्व की भेंट है।

Formal
"पर्व का उल्लास छाना"

— For festive joy to spread everywhere.

गाँव-गाँव में पर्व का उल्लास छा गया।

Literary
"पर्व की घड़ी"

— The moment of the festival.

पर्व की घड़ी नज़दीक है।

Neutral

Easily Confused

पर्व vs त्यौहार

Both mean festival.

Tyauhaar is common and everyday; Parv is formal and can also mean 'chapter' in epics.

दीवाली एक लोकप्रिय त्यौहार है। (Common) vs दीवाली एक पावन पर्व है। (Formal)

पर्व vs उत्सव

Both mean celebration.

Utsav is the act of celebrating; Parv is the specific day or period designated for it.

आज कॉलेज में उत्सव है। (Event) vs आज गणतंत्र पर्व है। (Day)

पर्व vs समारोह

Both refer to events.

Samaroh is a specific ceremony or function with a schedule; Parv is the holiday itself.

दीक्षांत समारोह (Convocation ceremony) vs होली पर्व (Holi festival).

पर्व vs मेला

Often happen at the same time.

Mela is a physical fair/market; Parv is the time/occasion.

पर्व के दौरान मेला लगा है। (The fair is held during the festival.)

पर्व vs अवकाश

Both imply no work.

Avakash is the 'leave' or 'vacation' taken; Parv is the reason for that leave.

पर्व के लिए अवकाश चाहिए। (Need leave for the festival.)

Sentence Patterns

A1

यह [Name] का पर्व है।

यह होली का पर्व है।

A2

हम [Name] पर्व मनाते हैं।

हम छठ पर्व मनाते हैं।

B1

पर्व के अवसर पर [Sentence].

पर्व के अवसर पर सब खुश हैं।

B2

[Name] पर्व का आध्यात्मिक महत्व है।

दीपावली पर्व का आध्यात्मिक महत्व है।

C1

पर्वों की सार्थकता [Noun] में है।

पर्वों की सार्थकता प्रेम में है।

C2

यह पर्व [Abstract Concept] का परिचायक है।

यह पर्व मानवीय एकता का परिचायक है।

B1

पर्वों के दौरान [Action].

पर्वों के दौरान हम नए कपड़े पहनते हैं।

A2

आज पर्व की छुट्टी है।

आज पर्व की छुट्टी है।

Word Family

Nouns

पर्व (Festival)
पर्वकाल (Festive period)
महापर्व (Great festival)
पर्वणी (Holy occasion)

Verbs

पर्व मनाना (To celebrate a festival - phrase)

Adjectives

पर्व-संबंधी (Festival-related)
पर्वमय (Festive/Full of festivals)

Related

त्यौहार (Festival)
उत्सव (Celebration)
अध्याय (Chapter - related to literary parv)
संधि (Joint - etymological relative)
ग्रंथि (Knot - etymological relative)

How to Use It

frequency

High, especially in formal writing, news, and religious contexts.

Common Mistakes
  • Using 'पर्वी' for feminine agreement. Keep it 'पर्व' (masculine).

    Learners often try to feminize it: 'यह अच्छी पर्व है'. Correct: 'यह अच्छा पर्व है'.

  • Confusing 'पर्व' with 'पूर्व'. Parv (festival) vs Poorv (before).

    Pronouncing 'Parv' with a long vowel makes it 'Poorv' or 'Paarv', which changes the meaning.

  • Using 'पर्व' for personal parties. Use 'उत्सव' or 'पार्टी'.

    'पर्व' is specifically for communal, religious, or national traditions.

  • Forgetting the oblique plural 'ओं'. पर्वों में (In festivals).

    Saying 'पर्व में' when you mean 'In festivals' is a common grammatical slip.

  • Writing 'परव' instead of 'पर्व'. पर्व.

    The 'r' should be a half-consonant (reph) on top of 'v', not a full 'ra' between 'pa' and 'va'.

Tips

Gender Check

Always remember 'पर्व' is masculine. Don't let the 'a' sound at the end of some English transliterations (Parva) trick you into thinking it's feminine.

Formal Writing

Use 'पर्व' in essays or formal emails to sound more educated and respectful of the culture.

National Pride

When talking about Independence Day, always use 'राष्ट्रीय पर्व' to show you understand its significance to Indians.

The Short Vowel

The 'a' in 'Parv' is very short (like 'u' in 'but'). Don't stretch it like 'Paarv' unless you are emphasizing it poetically.

Pairing with Adjectives

Commonly paired with 'पावन' (holy). 'पावन पर्व' is a very common and safe collocation to use.

Root Meaning

Remember the 'bamboo joint' analogy. It helps you understand why the word is used for both festivals and book chapters.

Greetings

If someone wishes you 'पर्व की शुभकामनाएँ', you can reply with 'आपको भी' (To you too).

News Keywords

Listen for this word on Indian news channels during August, October, or January; it will be used constantly.

The Refined 'R'

In Devanagari, the 'r' is written as a hook on top of the 'v' (र्व). This is a common way to write consonant clusters.

Festive Logic

Think of 'Parv' as a milestone in the year. It marks a point where everyone stops to celebrate.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Parv' as a 'Part' of the year that is 'Very' special. P-A-R-V = Part-A-Really-Valuable day.

Visual Association

Imagine a bamboo stick. Each 'knot' or 'joint' on the stick is a 'Parv'. These joints hold the stick together, just as festivals hold a culture together.

Word Web

Diwali Holi National Day Sacred Masculine Sanskrit Chapter Celebration

Challenge

Try to name three 'Rashtriya Parv' (National Festivals) of India and use the word 'Parv' in a sentence for each.

Word Origin

Derived from the Sanskrit word 'पर्वन्' (Parvan). It has been used in Indian languages for thousands of years.

Original meaning: The original meaning in Sanskrit was a 'joint,' 'node,' or 'knuckle,' such as those found on a bamboo stalk or a finger.

Indo-Aryan family, descending from Vedic Sanskrit.

Cultural Context

When using 'parv' for religious events, ensure you are aware of the specific traditions (fasting, prayer, etc.) as the word implies more than just a party.

While English uses 'festival' for everything from food fairs to religious days, Hindi speakers use 'parv' specifically to add a layer of respect and tradition.

The Mahabharata is divided into 18 'Parvas'. The 'Chhath Parv' is one of the most rigorous and famous festivals in North India. The Prime Minister's 'Mann Ki Baat' often mentions 'पर्वों का उल्लास' (the joy of festivals).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

National Holidays

  • राष्ट्रीय पर्व
  • गणतंत्र पर्व
  • स्वतंत्रता पर्व
  • देशभक्ति का पर्व

Religious Events

  • पावन पर्व
  • धार्मिक पर्व
  • पर्व की पूजा
  • श्रद्धा का पर्व

Literature/Epics

  • महाभारत का पर्व
  • अगला पर्व
  • पर्व की कथा
  • शांति पर्व

Media/News

  • पर्व विशेष
  • पर्व की तैयारियाँ
  • पर्व का उल्लास
  • पर्व की बधाई

Social Gatherings

  • मिलन का पर्व
  • प्रेम का पर्व
  • भाईचारे का पर्व
  • पर्व का उपहार

Conversation Starters

"आपका सबसे पसंदीदा पर्व कौन सा है और क्यों?"

"क्या आपके देश में भी कोई ऐसा पर्व है जो फसल से जुड़ा हो?"

"इस पर्व के दौरान आपके घर में कौन से विशेष पकवान बनते हैं?"

"क्या आपको लगता है कि आजकल पर्वों का बाज़ारीकरण हो गया है?"

"अगले पर्व पर आपकी क्या योजनाएँ हैं?"

Journal Prompts

अपने बचपन के किसी यादगार पर्व के बारे में विस्तार से लिखिए जब आपने बहुत मज़ा किया था।

आज के समय में राष्ट्रीय पर्वों का क्या महत्व है? अपने विचार व्यक्त कीजिए।

यदि आपको एक नया पर्व शुरू करना हो, तो वह किस बारे में होगा और उसे कैसे मनाया जाएगा?

पर्वों के दौरान होने वाली भीड़ और शोर-शराबे पर एक निबंध लिखिए।

पर्व हमें अपनी संस्कृति से कैसे जोड़ते हैं? उदाहरण सहित समझाइए।

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is a masculine noun. You should use masculine adjectives and verbs with it, such as 'बड़ा पर्व' or 'पर्व मनाया गया'.

Generally, no. 'पर्व' is reserved for communal religious or national celebrations. For a birthday, use 'जन्मदिन' or 'जन्म-उत्सव'.

'त्यौहार' is the everyday word for festival. 'पर्व' is more formal and carries a sense of sacredness or historical weight.

The word originally means 'joint' or 'section'. In the epic, each 'Parva' is a major section or 'joint' of the overall story.

You can say 'पर्व की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएँ' (Parv ki hardik shubhkamnayein), which means 'Heartfelt greetings of the festival'.

The three 'Rashtriya Parv' are Independence Day (15 Aug), Republic Day (26 Jan), and Gandhi Jayanti (2 Oct).

Mostly yes, but it is also used for national days and occasionally in literature to mean a division or chapter.

The direct plural is 'पर्व' (remains same). The oblique plural (used with postpositions) is 'पर्वों'.

Yes, because of its Sanskrit origin, similar forms of the word are used in Marathi, Gujarati, Bengali, and others.

No, that's 'पर्वत' (Parvat). Be careful not to confuse the two!

Test Yourself 200 questions

writing

Write a sentence using 'पर्व' and 'खुशी'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'Diwali is a holy festival.'

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writing

Explain the importance of 'Rashtriya Parv' in two sentences.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a formal greeting for a festival.

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writing

Translate: 'We celebrate many festivals in India.'

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writing

Use the word 'पर्वों' (oblique plural) in a sentence.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Describe your favorite festival using the word 'पर्व'.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'Behind every festival, there is a story.'

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writing

Write a sentence about 'Republic Day' using 'पर्व'.

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writing

Translate: 'The arrival of the festival brings joy.'

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writing

Write a sentence using 'पावन पर्व'.

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writing

Translate: 'Keep the dignity of the festival.'

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write about the literary meaning of 'Parv'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'This festival is a symbol of victory.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence about 'Chhath Parv'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'People wear new clothes on the festival.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Use 'पर्व' to describe a turning point in history.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'I am waiting for the upcoming festival.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence using 'सांस्कृतिक पर्व'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'Festivals connect us to our heritage.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

How do you say 'Happy Festival' in Hindi?

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Pronounce 'पर्व' correctly.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Describe Diwali using the word 'Parv'.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Name three national festivals using 'Parv'.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Use 'पर्वों' in a sentence about shopping.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Explain why 'Parv' is formal.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'Today is a festival' in Hindi.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Ask someone 'Which festival is this?'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'This festival is for everyone'.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Talk about the 'joy' of festivals.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Mention 'Mahabharata' and 'Parv'.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'I like festivals'.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'Holy festival of light'.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Wish someone for 'Republic Day'.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'The festival is coming'.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'Respect the festival'.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Describe a village festival.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'Festivals are our heritage'.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'A new festival'.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'Festival of colors'.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify: 'पावन पर्व'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify: 'राष्ट्रीय पर्व'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify: 'पर्वों का महत्व'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify: 'पर्व की शुभकामनाएँ'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify: 'पर्व का उल्लास'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify: 'गणतंत्र पर्व'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify: 'पर्व की पूर्व संध्या'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify: 'सांस्कृतिक पर्व'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify: 'पर्व मनाया गया'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify: 'पर्वों के दौरान'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify: 'महान पर्व'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify: 'पर्व का प्रतीक'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify: 'धार्मिक पर्व'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify: 'पर्व की तैयारी'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify: 'पर्वों की कतार'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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