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The word "autumn" comes from the Latin word "autumnus", which is probably of Etruscan origin. Autumn, also known as fall in North America. The autumn season marks the transition from summer to winter. Seasonal changes occur based on the Earth's revolution around the Sun. There are four seasons namely summer, winter, autumn and spring. Here in this article, we will learn more about autumn, its characteristics and the festivals celebrated during this season.
| Table of Content |
Autumn Season Meaning
The season between summer and winter is called autumn. It is known by different names like “Sharad Ritu” in India, and “Fall Season” in North America. Some of the characteristics of this season are clear skies, cool temperatures and colorful falling leaves. The timing of autumn varies in both the northern and southern hemispheres of the Earth.
In the Northern Hemisphere which includes Asia and other continents, the time period between the autumnal equinox (September 22 or 23) and the winter solstice (December 21 or 22) marks the beginning of the autumn season. In contrast, in the Southern Hemisphere the time between March 20 and June 21 or 22 is called autumn.
| According to Greek mythology, autumn season came into the existence when Hades kidnapped Persephone to become the Queen of the Underworld. Demeter, the goddess of the harvest was distraught and ordered all the crops on Earth to perish until her daughter returned. |
Autumn Season in India
Autumn is the "season of retreating monsoon". Autumn season in India occurs from September to November. It is a transitional period between the wet monsoon and the dry winter seasons. The landscape changes from the lush greenery of the monsoon to more muted tones as trees shed their leaves. Autumn is the season of festivals many important festivals like Diwali and Durga Puja take place in Autumn.
- In Autumn the temperature ranges from 25°C to 35°C on average.
- Temperature gradually drops as winter approaches.
- Days and nights are of equal length in Autumn.
Characteristics of Autumn Season
In autumn in India the days become shorter compared to the length of the nights. This is the time when the leaves of most plants start falling. Some important features of autumn in India are listed below:
- Autumn is the transitional period between summer and winter.
- The kharif crops such as millet, wheat, bajra, and rice are harvested in autumn season in India.
- With the arrival of autumn in India, the days become longer, so this season is known for its cooler temperatures.
- Autumn is the season for festivals and celebrations in India.
- The season brings shades of yellow, orange, red, and brown to the leaves of the trees.
- It is often called "fall" due to the leaves falling from trees during this season.
- Autumn season has often been associated with melancholia in poetry.
Autumn Season Months
- Northern Hemisphere: Autumn typically begins with the autumnal equinox in September and ends with the winter solstice in December.
- Southern Hemisphere: Autumn occurs from the autumnal equinox in March to the winter solstice in June.
Autumn Season Festivals in India
Autumn in India is a time of vibrant festivals and celebrations. Diwali is the most important and last festival of autumn season in India. The below table shows some more festivals which is celebrated in Autumn.
| Festival | Description |
|---|---|
| Navaratri | A nine-day celebration of the divine feminine, Goddess Durga, and her various forms. |
| Durga Puja | Festival in Eastern India, especially in West Bengal. Thousands of puja pandals are set up, and idols of Goddess Durga are worshipped. |
| Dussehra | Marking the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana, this festival is celebrated with the burning of the effigies of Ravana. |
| Ganesh Chaturthi | Celebrated in Western India, especially in Mumbai, this festival marks the arrival of Lord Ganesh on Earth. |
| Diwali | The Festival of Lights. It is celebrated across India. |
| Bathukamma | A floral festival celebrated by women in Telangana, where they craft intricate floral arrangements and sing and dance around them |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Ques. What are the four types of seasons?
Ans. The four seasons are Summer, Autumn (Fall), Winter, and Spring. Summer is characterized by hot and dry weather. In Autumn temperatures cool and plants begin to go dormant. Winter is the coldest season with the shortest day of the year (winter solstice). Spring comes with warm temperatures and plants start growing again.
Ques. Why are there four seasons?
Ans. The seasons are influenced by Earth's axial tilt and orbit around the Sun, leading to variations in daylight hours and weather patterns across different regions.
Ques. What happens in the autumn season?
Ans. Autumn is the "season of retreating monsoon". It occurs in India from September to November. It is a transitional period between the wet monsoon and the dry winter seasons. During this time, the weather becomes cooler and drier across the country.
Ques. What is the difference between autumn and fall?
Ans. The difference between "autumn" and "fall" is primarily in their regional usage and connotations. Both words refer to the season between summer and winter but Autumn is commonly used in British English, while Fall is used in American English.
Ques. What are the significant changes observed during autumn season in India?
Ans. In India, some important changes that are seen during autumn season are:
- Harvesting: The harvesting season of kharif crops including rice, wheat, and maize begins.
- Change in Colour of Leaves: During autumn season, the colour of leaves changes from green to yellow, orange, red, and brown.
- Change in Temperature: The temperature decreases with the arrival of autumn in India.
- Animals: The autumn season acts as signal for animals. They start their their preparation for winters.
- Birds: During this season, birds migrate towards equator or warm areas.
Ques. What is the difference between the Autumn season and the Spring season?
Ans. Autumn comes after summer and before winter, starting in September in the Northern Hemisphere and March in the Southern Hemisphere. Spring comes after winter and before summer, typically starting in March in the Northern Hemisphere and September in the Southern Hemisphere.
Ques. What Happens to Animals and Birds in the Autumn Season?
Ans. Many bird species move to warmer climates to avoid the harsh winter weather. Small mammals such as hedgehogs, bats, and dormice prepare for hibernation by storing food and finding safe places to spend the winter.
Ques. Write a Short Note on the Autumn Season.
Ans. Autumn is the third season of the year it spans from September to November in the Northern Hemisphere. It is distinguished by a slow drop in temperature as winter approaches temperature drops more quickly. Deciduous trees change colors throughout the season, turning vivid shades of orange, red, and yellow before dropping their leaves. Autumn is connected with harvest time when crops are harvested and stored for the winter.
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