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The 31 Most Famous Festivals of India: Extensive List 

spellbound travels festivals of India

India, often referred to as the “Land of Festivals,” is a vibrant and diverse country with a kaleidoscope of traditions, cultures, and religions. The festivals of India are an integral part of its cultural tapestry, celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervour throughout the year. 

These festivals not only showcase the country’s rich heritage but also offer a glimpse into the diverse customs and traditions that have evolved over the centuries. From Ganesh Chaturthi in Maharashtra to Diwali, the Festival of Lights, celebrated across the nation, and Durga Puja in West Bengal, Indian festivals are a celebration of life, culture, and spirituality. 

So let’s embark on a journey through some of the most famous festivals of India, each representing a unique facet of this incredible country! 

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1. Makar Sankranti (mid January) 

Makar Sankranti, often referred to simply as Sankranti, is one of India’s most vibrant and widely celebrated festivals. It’s a 1-day harvest festival celebrated in different states of India, but it goes by different names and customs. In the northern states, it is called Lohri and in Maharashtra and Gujarat, it’s known as Uttarayan. The diversity in its names and customs reflects the rich cultural tapestry of India.

Key aspects of Makar Sankranti in India:

Makar Sankranti is one of the festivals of India that celebrates the changing of seasons, the bounty of the harvest, and the warmth of community and family bonds. It is a time of joy, feasting, and outdoor activities, symbolizing the rejuvenation of nature. It’s also linked to the hope that comes with the onset of a new year.

2. Pongal (mid-January) 

Pongal is a popular harvest festival in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. Its name means “boiling over” and is dedicated to expressing gratitude for the bountiful harvest and the sun god, as well as celebrating the Tamil New Year. 

Key aspects of Pongal festival in India:

Pongal is not only a harvest festival but also a reflection of the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu and South India. It celebrates the hard work of farmers, the abundance of nature, and the bonds of family and community.

3. Pushkar Camel Fair (mid-January)

The Pushkar Camel Fair, held in the town of Pushkar in Rajasthan, is a one-of-a-kind cultural and livestock fair. It draws thousands of tourists and traders from around the world who come to witness the trading of camels, cattle, and horses. The fair is also known for its colourful and lively atmosphere, with competitions, folk music, and traditional Rajasthani dances.

Key aspects of the Pushkar Camel Fair:

The Pushkar Camel Fair is not only a marketplace for camels but also a celebration of Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage. It combines the spiritual, commercial, and entertainment aspects of Indian culture, making it a unique and memorable experience for all who attend.

4. Republic Day (January 26th)

Republic Day, celebrated on January 26th, marks the day when the Constitution of India came into effect in 1950. It is a national holiday and is celebrated with great pomp and show. The main event takes place in the capital, New Delhi, where a grand parade showcases India’s diverse cultural heritage, military prowess, and technological achievements.

Key aspects of Republic Day in India:

5. Basant Panchami (late January/early February) 

Basant Panchami, also known as Vasant Panchami, is a vibrant and much-anticipated festival celebrated in India, primarily marking the arrival of the spring season. This colourful and joyous festival is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge, wisdom, arts, and music.

Key aspects of Basant Panchami:

Basant Panchami signifies the rejuvenation of nature, the arrival of warmer days, and the blossoming of flowers, making it a time for renewal and celebration.

6. Maha Shivratri (mid-February) 

Maha Shivratri, one of the most revered Hindu festivals, is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm in India. This annual celebration is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. Maha Shivratri, which translates to “The Great Night of Shiva,” falls on the 13th or 14th day of the dark fortnight in the Hindu month of Phalgun, typically between February and March.

Key aspects of Maha Shivratri:

Maha Shivratri is a time for self-reflection, devotion, and spiritual awakening. It brings people of all backgrounds together in reverence of Lord Shiva, who is considered the embodiment of tranquility, purity, and divine energy.

7. Holi (early March)

Holi, known as the Festival of Colors, is one of the most vibrant and joyous festivals of India. It is celebrated with gusto across the country, but the celebrations in North India are particularly famous. The festival marks the arrival of spring and is celebrated by throwing coloured powders, water balloons, and engaging in lively processions. Holi is a time when people come together, forget their differences, and revel in the spirit of unity and joy.

While Holi is celebrated all over India, the town of Barsana in Uttar Pradesh is known for its unique Lathmar Holi. In this tradition, women playfully beat men with sticks while the men try to shield themselves. It reenacts the playful teasing between Lord Krishna and the gopis. The vibrant and spirited celebrations make Barsana a must-visit destination during Holi.

Key aspects of the Holi festival:

Holi is not only about the physical act of smearing colours. It’s also about spreading love, happiness, and the spirit of togetherness. It is a celebration of life, the renewal of nature, and a time for people to connect, forgive, and create lasting memories.

8. Mewar (late March)

The Mewar Festival, celebrated in the historic city of Udaipur in the Indian state of Rajasthan, is a vibrant and culturally rich event that pays tribute to the region’s rich heritage and traditions. This annual festival is a grand spectacle of music, dance, and cultural performances, showcasing the royal legacy of the Mewar dynasty.

Key aspects of the Mewar Festival:

The Mewar Festival is a visual and cultural extravaganza that allows both locals and visitors to immerse themselves in the traditions of Rajasthan. It showcases the grace, opulence, and the enduring royal legacy of the Mewar region. The combination of religious significance and vibrant festivities makes it a unique and unforgettable celebration in the heart of Udaipur.

9. Easter (late March/early April)

Easter, a significant Christian holiday commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, is celebrated in India by the Christian community with devotion, joy, and cultural diversity. While Easter is not as widely observed as some other festivals in India, it holds a special place for Christians, and the celebrations vary in different parts of the country.

Goa, a popular tourist destination, celebrates Easter with great enthusiasm. The state’s rich Christian heritage is reflected in the vibrant Easter celebrations, which include midnight masses, colorful processions, and the famous tradition of creating intricate flower carpets. It’s a time when Goa comes alive with a festive spirit, attracting both locals and tourists

Key aspects of celebrating Easter in India:

Overall, Easter in India is celebrated with devotion and cultural nuances that reflect the country’s diversity. The holiday is not only a religious observance but also a time for social gatherings, feasting, and sharing the message of resurrection and hope. It provides an opportunity for Christians in India to renew their faith and celebrate the central event of their religious belief.

10. Mahavir Jayanti

Mahavir Jayanti is a significant Jain festival celebrated in India to commemorate the birth of Lord Mahavira, the 24th and final Tirthankara (spiritual teacher) of Jainism. This festival is marked by prayers, processions, and various religious activities, reflecting the teachings and principles of non-violence and spiritual enlightenment.

Key aspects of Mahavir Jayanti in India:

Mahavir Jayanti is a day of deep reflection and spiritual contemplation for Jains. It serves as a reminder of the timeless principles of Jainism, including non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), non-possessiveness (aparigraha), chastity (brahmacharya), and non-stealing (asteya). The festival encourages followers to renew their commitment to these values and strive for spiritual growth and liberation.

11. Baisakhi (mid-April)

Baisakhi, also spelled as Vaisakhi, is one of the most significant festivals celebrated in India, particularly in the northern state of Punjab. It marks the beginning of the harvest season and is a time for thanksgiving and merriment. Baisakhi holds cultural, religious, and historical significance, making it a vibrant and joyous celebration.

Key aspects of Baisakhi:

Baisakhi is a time for renewal, thanksgiving, and communal celebration. It reflects the cultural vibrancy and the spirit of unity among the people of Punjab.

12. Bihu (mid-April)

Bihu is a vibrant and joyous festival celebrated in the northeastern Indian state of Assam. It is a collection of three festivals, namely Rongali Bihu (Bohag Bihu), Kongali Bihu (Kati Bihu), and Bhogali Bihu (Magh Bihu), each marking different phases of the agricultural cycle.

Key aspects of the Bihu festival:

Bihu is not just a festival; it is a way of life in Assam. It brings communities together, transcending regional and ethnic differences, and showcases the rich cultural heritage of the state. The festival’s lively celebrations, traditional performances, and delicious cuisine make it a time of exuberant rejoicing and cultural preservation.

13. Thrissur Pooram (early may)

Thrissur Pooram is one of the most extravagant and famous temple festivals in India, celebrated in the city of Thrissur, located in the southern state of Kerala. This grand spectacle is renowned for its stunning display of elephants, magnificent processions, and vibrant cultural performances, making it a significant cultural and religious event.

Key aspects of Thrissur Pooram:

Thrissur Pooram is a grand showcase of Kerala’s rich cultural traditions. It embodies the spirit of unity, devotion, and vibrant celebrations, making it a must-see festival for those interested in India’s diverse cultural heritage.

14. Buddha Jayanti (early May)

Buddha Jayanti, also known as Buddha Purnima, is one of the most important Buddhist festivals of India. This festival holds immense significance for Buddhists and is a time for reflection, meditation, and spreading the message of peace and compassion.

Key aspects of Buddha Jayanti:

Buddha Jayanti is a time for self-reflection, spiritual contemplation, and a reaffirmation of the principles of peace, compassion, and non-violence that Buddha preached. It serves as a reminder of the universal values of Buddhism and the enduring legacy of Lord Buddha, whose teachings continue to inspire people on their spiritual journeys towards enlightenment and liberation.

15. Eid Ul Fitr

Eid ul-Fitr, also known as Ramzan Eid, is one of the most significant and joyous Islamic festivals celebrated in India. It marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims. Eid ul-Fitr is a time of communal prayers, feasting, and spreading love and compassion among family and friends.

Key aspects of Eid ul-Fitr in India:

Eid ul-Fitr is a time of unity, gratitude, and reflection for the Muslim community in India. It signifies the completion of a month of fasting and spiritual self-improvement and allows Muslims to come together to celebrate the blessings of family, community, and faith. The festival promotes values of charity, forgiveness, and compassion. This fosters a sense of brotherhood and unity among people of different backgrounds and beliefs.

16. Ratha Yatra (late June)

Ratha Yatra, also known as the “Festival of Chariots,” is a prominent Hindu festival celebrated in Puri, Odisha, and other parts of India. The festival involves the grand procession of deities on elaborately decorated chariots. The main deities worshipped during Ratha Yatra are Lord Jagannath, his sister Subhadra, and his brother Balabhadra. The chariots are pulled by thousands of devotees, and the procession is a spectacle of color, music, and devotion. Ratha Yatra is a symbol of inclusiveness and unity, as people from diverse backgrounds come together to witness and participate in this sacred event, reaffirming their faith and devotion to Lord Jagannath.

Key aspects of Ratha Yatra:

Ratha Yatra is a magnificent and spiritually enriching event, emphasizing the concept of unity and devotion among people of diverse backgrounds.

17. Hemis

Hemis, located in the northern Indian state of Ladakh, is home to one of the most famous monasteries in the region, Hemis Monastery. It’s not only renowned for its spiritual and cultural significance but also for its stunning natural beauty. This remote and picturesque village has become a destination for travelers seeking a blend of spirituality and Himalayan landscapes.

Key aspects of Hemis:

18. Janmashtmi (early August)

Janmashtami, also known as Krishna Janmashtami, is a vibrant and widely celebrated Hindu festival in India that marks the birth of Lord Krishna, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism. It is a time of great joy and devotion, with colourful festivities and religious observances taking place across the country.

Key aspects of Janmashtami in India:

Janmashtami is not just a religious festival but also a cultural celebration of Lord Krishna’s life and teachings. It highlights the universal principles of love, devotion, and righteousness. The festival transcends regional and linguistic boundaries, uniting people across India in their reverence for Lord Krishna.

19. Independence Day (August 15th)

Independence Day, celebrated on August 15th, is a significant national holiday in India. It marks the day when India gained independence from British rule in 1947. The main event takes place at the Red Fort in Delhi, where the Prime Minister hoists the national flag and delivers a speech. It’s a day for Indians to feel a sense of pride and patriotism, and it is celebrated with flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural programs, and parades across the country.

Key aspects of Independence Day in India:

Independence Day in India is a day of pride, reflection, and unity. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals to achieve freedom and the responsibility of citizens to uphold and protect the values of democracy, secularism, and unity.

20. Raksha Bandhan (late August)

Raksha Bandhan, often referred to as “Rakhi,” is a heartwarming and culturally rich festival celebrated in India. It is a special occasion that reinforces the bond of love and protection between brothers and sisters. Raksha Bandhan is a day when sisters tie colorful threads, known as “rakhis,” around their brothers’ wrists as a symbol of their love and a request for their protection.

Key aspects of Raksha Bandhan in India:

Raksha Bandhan is a beautiful and emotionally charged festival that celebrates the enduring bond of love, trust, and protection between siblings. It highlights the unique relationship that exists between brothers and sisters. It also offers a moment of reflection on the importance of familial bonds in Indian culture.

21. Onam (late August)

Onam is a ten-day harvest festival celebrated in the southern state of Kerala. It’s one of the biggest and most important festivals in the region. The highlight of Onam is the grand feast, known as Onam Sadya, which includes a variety of traditional dishes served on a banana leaf. The festival is also marked by cultural performances, snake boat races, and the creation of intricate floral rangoli patterns, called pookalam, at the entrance of homes. Onam celebrates the return of the legendary King Mahabali and is a time for unity, feasting, and cultural extravagance.

Kottayam, a district in Kerala, is famous for its unique Onam celebrations. The Kottayam Onam is known for the grand procession of caparisoned elephants, traditional music, and cultural performances. It is a time when the town comes alive with the spirit of Onam, attracting visitors from all over the country.

Key aspects of Onam festival in India:

Onam is a cultural extravaganza that unites the people of Kerala in celebration of their history, agricultural abundance, and the spirit of unity and brotherhood. It is a time when people come together to forget their differences and revel in the harmonious festivities of a bountiful harvest. Onam is a true reflection of India’s diverse and colourful festival heritage.

22. Ganesh Chaturthi (mid-September)

Ganesh Chaturthi is a festival that pays homage to Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of wisdom and prosperity. This festival holds special significance in the state of Maharashtra, where elaborate idols of Lord Ganesha are installed in homes and public places. The festival involves processions, music, dance, and cultural performances. After several days of celebration, the idols are immersed in water, symbolizing the return of Lord Ganesha to his heavenly abode.

Key aspects of Ganesh Chaturthi in India:

Ganesh Chaturthi is a cultural phenomenon that brings communities together in celebration. It reflects the Indian ethos of welcoming prosperity and wisdom into our lives while fostering unity and devotion. The festival showcases the diversity and vibrancy of India’s religious and cultural traditions, making it an integral part of the country’s festival heritage.

23. Navratri (mid-late October)

Navratri, a Hindu festival celebrated over nine nights, is dedicated to the Goddess Durga, who represents the divine feminine energy. This festival is particularly significant in the state of West Bengal, where it is known as Durga Puja and celebrated with unmatched grandeur and devotion. Elaborate clay idols of Goddess Durga are crafted, and colourful processions are held as people immerse themselves in the festivities. It’s a time for traditional dances, cultural activities, and experiencing the vibrancy of Bengali culture. Durga Puja serves as a perfect example of how festivals in India can have regional variations while celebrating the same deity.

Key aspects of Navratri festival in India:

Navratri is not just a religious festival but a celebration of Indian culture, unity, and the triumph of righteousness. It showcases the rich tapestry of regional traditions and the devotion of millions of people across India. The festive spirit, fervour, and dance-filled evenings during Navratri make it an unforgettable and unifying experience.

24. Durga Puja (late October)

Durga Puja, also known as Durgotsav, is one of the most widely celebrated and grand festivals of India, particularly in the state of West Bengal. It is a ten-day festival that honours the goddess Durga, a symbol of divine feminine power and victory over evil. Durga Puja is a time of elaborate decorations, cultural performances, and deep reverence for the goddess.

Key aspects of Durga Puja festival in India:

Durga Puja is a cultural extravaganza that reflects the spirit of unity, creativity, and devotion in West Bengal and other regions where it is celebrated. It brings communities together to celebrate the triumph of good over evil and the empowerment of the divine feminine. The festival’s artistic and cultural significance is a testament to India’s rich heritage and diversity.

25. Chhath Puja (late October)

Chhath Puja is a unique and ancient Hindu festival primarily celebrated in the northern state of Bihar. It is dedicated to worshipping the Sun God and is observed with strict rituals. During this festival, devotees take a dip in the holy river, fast, and offer prayers to the rising and setting sun. Chhath Puja reflects the deep reverence for nature and the sun’s life-giving energy.

Key aspects of Chhath Puja:

Chhath Puja is a cultural expression of reverence for the natural elements and the sun’s life-giving energy. It brings communities together and reflects the deep-rooted traditions of eastern India and Nepal.

26. Karwa Chauth (late October)

Karwa Chauth is a Hindu festival celebrated by married women for the well-being and long life of their husbands. It involves fasting from sunrise to moonrise and offering prayers. The day is marked by women dressing in traditional attire, applying intricate mehndi designs on their hands, and coming together for evening rituals, which include breaking the fast after sighting the moon.

Key aspects of Karwa Chauth in India:

Karwa Chauth is a celebration of marital bonds, love, and the deep connection between husband and wife. It showcases the devotion and sacrifice of married women and the hope for a long and prosperous married life. The festival brings families together and is a time of cultural significance and togetherness for married couples in India.

27. Dussehra (late October)

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most significant Hindu festivals of India. It marks the triumph of good over evil and is observed with great fervour and enthusiasm across the country. Dussehra signifies the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana and the triumph of righteousness.

Key aspects of Dussehra festival in India:

Dussehra is a festival that embodies the timeless message of the victory of good over evil and the importance of righteousness in life. It serves as a reminder of the values of truth, courage, and devotion to dharma (duty) as exemplified by Lord Rama. The celebration of Dussehra brings communities together and is a testament to India’s rich cultural heritage and diversity.

28. Diwali (mid-November)

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India and is known for its grandeur and splendour. It typically falls in October or November, marking the victory of light over darkness. The festival is celebrated in every part of the country, but it holds a special place in the hearts of people in North India.

Diwali is a Hindu festival that symbolizes the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after his epic battle with Ravana. It’s a time for families to come together, light oil lamps, decorate their homes, exchange gifts, and enjoy a variety of sweets and snacks. In some regions, Diwali also marks the start of the new financial year, and people worship Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity and wealth.

Key aspects of Diwali festival in India:

Diwali is a festival that transcends religious and regional boundaries, uniting people in celebration and the spirit of togetherness. It is a time to reflect on the values of light, knowledge, and the victory of good over evil, and it brings communities together to create an atmosphere of joy and unity. Diwali is a testament to India’s rich cultural heritage and is a festival that symbolizes hope and positivity in the face of life’s challenges.

29. Gurupurab (late November)

Gurupurab, also known as Guru Nanak Jayanti, is a significant Sikh festival celebrated in India and by Sikh communities worldwide. It marks the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. Gurupurab is a time of deep spiritual reflection, prayer, and community gatherings to honour the teachings and principles of Guru Nanak.

Key aspects of Gurupurab festival in India:

Gurupurab is a time to reflect on the principles of Sikhism, which include equality, selfless service, and devotion to the One Creator. It is a day when people of all backgrounds are welcomed into the gurudwaras to partake in the celebrations and the spirit of unity. The festival serves as a reminder of the teachings of Guru Nanak, who advocated for the oneness of humanity and the importance of living a life of compassion and righteousness.

30. Christmas (December 25th)

Christmas in India is celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm, even though it is not a traditionally Hindu or Indian festival. It is observed by people of various religious backgrounds, including Christians, as well as by people of other faiths who join in the festivities. Christmas is a time for spreading love, warmth, and goodwill.

Key aspects of Christmas in India:

Christmas in India is a reflection of the country’s rich diversity and pluralism, where people of different faiths come together to celebrate a season of love and hope. The festival carries the universal message of peace, kindness, and the joy of giving, making it a cherished occasion for all who participate.

31. Kumbh Mela (every 12 years)

The Kumbh Mela is one of the largest and most renowned religious gatherings in the world. It is celebrated at four different locations in India: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain, rotating every three years. The festival attracts millions of devotees who come to take a holy dip in the sacred rivers. It is believed that during the Kumbh Mela, the waters of these rivers turn into nectar, granting spiritual purification.

Kumbh Mela is one of the largest and most iconic religious gatherings in India. It is a Hindu pilgrimage that occurs at four major locations in India: Allahabad (Prayagraj), Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain. The festival is held in each location approximately every 12 years, rotating in a cyclical manner.

The next Kumbh Mela is happening Januray 2025, in Prayagraj!

Key aspects of Kumbh Mela in India:

Kumbh Mela is not only a religious gathering but also a vibrant display of India’s rich traditions and faith. It is a testament to the country’s spiritual heritage and a celebration of unity in diversity. It brings millions of people together in their quest for spiritual enlightenment and the cleansing of their souls.

What Do You Think of the Festivals of India?

The festivals of India are a testament to the country’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. Each festival, with its unique customs and traditions, reflects the values, beliefs, and history of different regions and communities.

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