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Festivals in India

The Indian subcontinent presents a vibrant tapestry of colorful fairs and festivals. As the days progress through the lunar calendar, the diverse populace of this nation, representing varied racial backgrounds and religious beliefs, enthusiastically partakes in celebrations. This abundance results in an impressive array of fairs and festivals, exceeding the total number of days in a year! Here are some of the major Indian fairs and festivals that serve as grand spectacles, attracting tourists from around the globe each year.

The principal festivals celebrated in India encompass Diwali, known as the festival of lights and fireworks; Holi, recognized as the festival of colors; Christmas; Eid-Ul-Fitr; and Pongal, celebrated as the harvest festival; Baisakhi; along with national observances such as Independence Day and Republic Day, among others. In addition to these occasions, the Kumbh Mela has captivated the minds and imaginations of ordinary Indians for centuries. This event draws millions of devotees to the banks of the sacred Ganges River, where immersing in its holy waters is believed to confer spiritual enlightenment and tranquility.

The renowned Goa Carnival is an event not to be overlooked. This festival attracts countless travelers globally. Moreover, the five-day Pushkar Fair in Rajasthan garners over one lakh visitors annually! It is a time for relaxation and joyous celebrations for the villagers, coinciding with the largest cattle fair in the country. Camels and other livestock are brought from vast distances, with brisk trading occurring as thousands of heads of cattle change hands.

Holi

The air gets enrobed with exhilaration as Holi transforms the atmosphere.

Holi festival in India is eagerly awaited by Hindus. Known as the Festival of Colours, it’s a time for everyone to celebrate together, indulging in colourful festivities, bonfire, and sweets. It signifies the end of winter and the arrival of spring.

Holi is celebrated on the day after the full moon in March.

The festival commemorates the triumph of good over evil through the destruction of the demoness Holika, enabled by devotion to Lord Vishnu.

Rituals include the burning of Holika on Holi's eve, marking the occasion as Holika Dahan.

People celebrate by smearing Gulal and throwing coloured water. Bhang is traditionally consumed, and Gujia is a special sweet prepared for the occasion.

Holi in Mathura is celebrated in the temple towns of Mathura and Vrindavan, known for their vibrant celebrations.

Prior to Holi, performers enact shows based on Krishna. Holi in Banke-Bihari Temple in Vrindavan is especially significant.

Goa Carnival

Goa invites tourists to revel in the Goa Carnival, a vibrant festival of colors and merriment. It's a 3-day festival of music and dance every February. The Goa Carnival Tour allows all ages to experience this cultural extravaganza.

History of Goa Carnival: Originating in the 18th century from Portuguese influence, the term "Carnival" signifies the end of meat consumption. For three days, people honor King Momo, marking Lent's beginning with this colorful festival.

Significance of Carnival: Goa Carnival, India's most spectacular festival, attracts thousands, celebrated mainly by Christians. It starts on Fat Saturday and ends on Fat Tuesday.

Glimpses of Cultural Extravaganza: The event showcases colorful cultural performances, with participants in vibrant costumes. Dancers wear outfits like Brazilian Samba, judged by a panel, with King Momo awarding winners.

Culinary Delights: Indian festivals emphasize cuisine. At Goa Carnival, taste exotic dishes from various stalls. Delicious food with wine is offered to attendees.

Don't miss the famous Shakuti curry, Vindaloo, and Saurpatel. Enjoy potent Feni liquor with plum pudding.

Diwali

Diwali begins on the thirteenth day of the waning moon in 'Kartik' and continues till the 'Dooj' or second day of the waxing moon. According to the Hindu calendar, a month is divided into two fortnights.

The festival marks the start of a new year for the people of Gujarat, specifically for Marwari businessmen.

Diwali is not just a one-day festival. It starts with Dhanteras, signifying the day when Lord Dhanwanti emerged with a jar of amrita. People buy new utensils and pray for health and prosperity.

The 14th day is Naraka Chaturdashi, also known as Choti Diwali. It commemorates the defeat of the demon Narakasur by Lord Krishna. The 15th day, Amavasya, is celebrated as Diwali, honoring Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya. It concludes with Bhai Dooj.

Diwali Celebrations

Diwali is celebrated across India with various preparations. Houses are whitewashed and decorated with marigold strings and rangolis. Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped for wealth and prosperity. In Bengal, this day is dedicated to Kali Puja.

Pushkar Fair

Every November, the township of Pushkar in Rajasthan, India bursts with colors and activity.
With camels, cattle, competitions, and vibrant crowds, it is an iconic event in the month of Kartik (November). The fair enhances the traditions of Rajasthan and attracts villagers and tourists alike.

This fair is known for the world's largest camel fair, and a gathering for pilgrims seeking to "wash away the sins of a lifetime" in Pushkar Lake.

Tourist Attractions during the Pushkar Fair

Cattle Trading: The Pushkar fair features numerous camels, horses, and cattle for sale, attracting proud owners from across Rajasthan.

Competitions: The fair’s highlight includes cattle competitions where beautifully decorated animals participate in races and contests.

Stalls and Shopping: Visitors can explore numerous stalls offering items for both cattle and humans, including traditional jewelry and garments.

Other Must Visits in Pushkar: Pushkar also boasts temples and the sacred Pushkar Lake, famed for its holiness and beauty.

How To Reach Pushkar

Pushkar is accessible from Jaipur’s airport and Ajmer’s railhead, with good road connections as well.

Plan to attend the Pushkar Fair from end of October to November, and be prepared for variable temperatures throughout the event.

Snake Boat Race [Kerala]

The snake boat races in Kerala are a thrilling celebration of culture. The serene backwaters come alive with excitement once a year, and the local villagers take great pride in participating in these snake boat races.

The traditional boats, known as chunduvalloms, are built from massive tree trunks and painted vibrantly, resembling giant snakes.

Each boat accommodates over 100 oarsmen.

Popular events include the Nehru Trophy Boat Race and others that add color to the green landscape of Kerala.

Onam Festival

Onam is a ten-day harvest festival celebrating the homecoming of King Mahabali. This is a time when Kerala unites to showcase its rich cultures and traditions. People eagerly await this grand occasion that falls between August and September. It is said that Mahabali visits Kerala during Onam and blesses his subjects.

Legend Behind Onam

Mahabali, although a demon, was a kind-hearted and caring king. His subjects honored him greatly, leading the gods to seek Lord Vishnu's intervention. Disguised as a dwarf Brahmin, he asked Mahabali for alms. The king granted his wish, inviting unforeseen consequences.

The dwarf Brahmin grew in size, covering vast regions in his steps. Understanding the situation, Mahabali humbly offered his head for the third step, leading to his exile. However, Vishnu granted him a wish to visit his land once a year during Onam, leading to celebratory festivities.

Celebrations for Onam Harvest Festival

Onam lasts for ten days, featuring grand feasts, folk songs, dances, games, and beautiful flowers. Women prepare Onasadya in a grand meal served on plantain leaves, showcasing tradition.

Vallam Kali (boat races) is integral to the festival, with locals racing over 100 feet long boats. Traditional performances like Pulikali (tiger dance) and Kummattikali (mask dance) are popular, transforming Kerala into a vibrant cultural hub.

Onam Festival Kerala South India is the perfect time for a grand homecoming.

Mysura Dasara Festival

The Festival Celebrating Royal Heritage! In Mysuru, Dussehra honors Goddess Chamundeswari, who defeated the demon Mahishasur. Mysuru Dasara is Karnataka's State festival. It symbolizes the victory of good over evil. There are floats, bands, and displays from the royal family.

Festival Timing

Unlike other regions, Mysuru celebrates Dussehra for 10 days during Navaratri, around mid-October. Events occur at various locations, but the Mysuru Palace is the main attraction.

Procession

On the final day, a traditional Dussehra procession, known as Jumboo Savari, goes through Mysuru, starting from the Palace. It features an idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari on a beautifully decorated elephant, along with a torch-light parade in the evening.

Celebration

Mysuru Palace dazzles with 100,000 light bulbs during the festival.
Dance performances, a food festival, and sightseeing are highlights of this vibrant event.

Highlights

The Dussehra exhibition lasts three months, featuring stalls with handicrafts, clothing, and rides. Additional attractions include fireworks, laser shows, and motorcycle stunts.

Khajuraho Dance Festival

Expressions shine at Khajuraho Dance Festival! Celebrating human emotions and religious philosophy, this festival attracts many tourists. It is an annual event in the last week of February in Madhya Pradesh, featuring top classical dancers from India.

Festival Timing

This iconic dance festival is held yearly in February amid the temples of Khajuraho.

Dance Forms

The festival showcases famous Indian dance forms like Bharatnatyam, Kathak, Odissi, and Kuchipudi, promoting Indian heritage as organized by the Madhya Pradesh Tourism board.

Participants

The festival provides a platform for young dancers to display their skills to an audience passionate about traditional Asian performing art. Dancers travel far to participate.

Highlights

The internationally acclaimed Khajuraho Dance Festival offers unique performances from renowned maestros, enhanced by the temple's golden ambiance as night falls. The enchanting melodies of the flute and rhythms of the “Mrindangam” and tabla captivate audiences.

Activities

Alongside dance, local art and crafts are exhibited, allowing villagers to share their talents with visitors and showcase indigenous art to international guests.

Experience the brilliance of Indian classical dance at Khajuraho Dance Festival!

Kohima Hornbill Festival

Also known as Naga Hornbill Festival, it's a popular event in Kohima centered on agriculture. The tribes of Nagaland view their participation as compulsory. The Government of Nagaland conducts the festival to promote cultural heritage and inter-tribal interaction.

Time and Venue of the Festival

The Hornbill Festival, celebrated in the first week of December, is held at Naga Heritage Village, about 12 km from Kohima.

Significance

The Festival is named after the Hornbill, a revered bird in tribal folklore.

Celebration

Hornbill Festival exhibits diverse cultural displays. All tribes participate, showcasing Nagaland's rich culture and traditions. The event fosters a closer understanding and allows visitors to experience local dances, songs, and food. A "Night-Bazaar" concludes each day.

Highlights

The festival unites people in Nagaland to enjoy performances, crafts, food fairs, and ceremonies. Traditional arts like wood carvings and sculptures are displayed.

The traditional Naga Morung exhibit stands out. Other highlights include:

Arts and crafts sale, Food stalls, Flower shows, Herbal medicine stalls, Songs and dances, Fashion shows, Traditional archery, Naga wrestling, Beauty contest, Indigenous games, Musical concert.

Kumbh Mela

The Kumbh Mela is vital for India, happening every twelve years. This festival represents the world's largest religious gathering, attracting many sadhus and yogis, who come to partake in the sacred Ganga Water. It embodies time-honored rituals and deep faith in ancient traditions.

The pilgrimage occurs four times every twelve years at locations like Prayag, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nasik. The Maha Kumbh Mela is held at Prayag (Allahabad), while the others are Ardh (Half) Kumbh Mela, attracting millions of devotees. The last Maha Kumbh in Prayag was in 2001. The next is set for 2013 in January and February.

Historical Significance

The Kumbh Mela's history is ancient, linked to the creation of the universe. Legend has it that the gods and demons churned the ocean for the Kumbh containing immortality nectar (Amrit). However, demons fled with it, causing conflict.

After twelve days of fierce battle, Amrita fell at four locations: Prayag, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nasik, leading to the Mela being celebrated at these sites.

Ritual Bath

Bathing in the Ganges at this time is considered to absolve sins and a path to Moksha.

Other Highlights

The Mela also features spiritual discourse, singing, religious gatherings, and mass feeding of holy men and the needy. It is the most sacred of Hindu pilgrimages, attracting numerous holy figures.