Festivals of India: Religious and National Festivals in India

India is a land of festivals, where people from different religions coexist harmoniously. The wide variety of festivals celebrated in India is a true manifestation of its rich culture and traditions. There are many Indian festivals and celebrations, the most exciting of which are mentioned below. While the celebrations happen all over the year, October till January is the time when the country can be seen at its vibrant best.

India is one country where every religion and community celebrates their culture. There are festivals of India state wise, religion-based, and community-wise. So, every day is a new celebration in this country. You also enjoy lots of Gazetted holidays that gives you an opportunity to plan a trip across the country.

To give you a fair idea about all the festivals of India in 2023 and their dates, before you begin, here is a piece of information that would prove essential for you! It will also tell you about the importance of the famous festivals of India!

List of Hindu Festivals in India 2024

Here is a list of religious and national festivals of India that is celebrated in the country with much gusto and fervor. Plan your holidays around these festivals if you wish to explore the vibrant culture of India.

List of 36 Popular Festivals Of India in 2024

The greatness of India’s culture can be found in its festivals. The vivid and vivacious festivals of India depict the greatness of our Indian culture. Indians celebrate festivals with sheer enthusiasm and devotion. India is a country that is appreciated and comprehended as a plethora of festivals are celebrated here.

Here is a quick list of the most famous festivals of India state wise. The regional festivals of India too are celebrated with much pomp and show. Check out this list of religious festivals of India before you visit the best places of Indian cultural heritage to attend the grand celebrations of these festivals.

1. Diwali: The Grand Festival Of Lights (1st November, Thursday)

Diwali, one of the most prominent Hindu festivals of India, is celebrated with a lot of pomp and show. During this festival of lights, houses are decorated with clay lamps, candles, and Ashok leaves. People wear new clothes, participate in family puja, burst crackers, and share sweets with friends, families, and neighbours. It is the most popular festival in India.

Significance: The festival marks the return of Lord Rama, along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana, after a long exile of 14 years.
Key attractions: Homes decorated with fancy lights, candles and clay lamps, bustling shops and markets, and fireworks and crackers
When: The darkest new moon night of Kartik month of the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which corresponds to mid-October – mid-November as per the Gregorian Calendar
Where: All over the country
Diwali 2024:1st November, Thursday
Things To Do: Light diyas, decorate your home, share sweets and gifts with family and loved ones

Must Read: Best Festivals In September In India

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2. Holi: The Vibrant Festival Of Colours (25th March, Monday)

Also known as the festival of colours, Holi is one of the famous festivals of India, celebrated with a lot of fervour across the country. On the eve of Holi, people make huge Holika bonfires and sing and dance around it. On the day of Holi, the famous festival of Indian states, people gather in open areas and apply dry and wet colors of multiple hues to each other, with some carrying water guns and colored water-filled balloons. It tops the charts of 10 famous festivals in India as it is celebrated all across the world with happiness.

Significance: It signifies the victory of good (Prince Prahlad) over evil (Holika) and the arrival of spring.
Key attractions: Holika bonfire, playing with colors, and bhang thandai
When: Full moon (Purnima) of the Phalgun month of the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which corresponds to the month of March of the Gregorian calendar
Where: Almost all over the country; most vibrant celebrations can be seen in North Indian states
Holi 2024: 25th March, Monday
Things To Do: Holika bonfires and sing and dance around it, play with colors, eat sweets esp. Gujiya

Suggested Read: Best Holi Parties In Delhi To Celebrate The Vibrant Festival Of Colors

3. Dussehra: Witness The Triumph Of Good Over Evil (12th October, Saturday)

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Dussehra, also referred to as Vijayadashami, is also among the most famous festivals of India in Hindu religion. It is celebrated in different forms of countrywide. Ramlila (enactment of scenes from Ramayana) is held everywhere for 10 days. It’s culminated with “Ravan Dahan” – the burning of huge effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhkaran which is a real spectacle to see. While in Mysore, a colorful procession is taken out, in Kullu it is celebrated for 10 days welcoming their mountain deities in the valley. The Mysore Palace is lit like a bride and the atmosphere is filed with the music of drums. It is a spectacle to not miss on your trip to the city of royals. It is one of the most religious festivals of India. 

Significance: It celebrates the death of the demon king Ravana at the hands of Lord Rama.
Key attractions: Hustle bustle of the decorated markets, Ram-Leela acts, and the big event of the burning of effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhkaran
When: 10th day of the month of Ashwin according to the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which corresponds to September or October of the Gregorian calendar
Where: Pan India
Dussehra 2024: 12th October, Saturday
Things To Do: Visit Dussehra celebrations, attend ravan dahan, visit prominent temples to glance celebrations 

Suggested Read: Dussehra In India

4. Navratri: The Nine Days Of Fasting, Faith, & Devotion (9th October– 13th October)

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Navratri is one of the most important festivals of India. This festival is celebrated by all people throughout India in different ways. In Gujarat, it is a nine-day celebration of rejuvenating Garba nights and highly energetic Dandiya Raas dances. People are dressed in beautiful, colorful traditional clothes and the environment is very youthful and invigorating. Fasting is a famous tradition of Hindu religion and is associated with a scientific fact. Whenever there is a change in season, one should fast to give rest to their digestive system and boost their immunity for the next season. 

Significance: It represents the celebration of the Goddess Amba (Power) in nine different forms.
Key attractions: The 9 days of dance festivities in Gujarat, the exquisite Chaniya Choli’s (traditional skirt & blouse), and the Gujarati cuisine – Sabudana Khichdi, Mandvi Paak, Singoda ki Kheer, and Potato Wafers
When: The first nine days of the month of Ashwin according to the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which corresponds to September or October of the Gregorian calendar
Where: Almost all over the country; most vibrant in Gujarat, Maharashtra and the metros
Navratri 2024: 9th October– 13th October
Things To Do: 9-days fasting, visit temples and religious places, 8th and 9th day of Navratri are celebrated with Kanya Pujan, attend dandiya nights

Suggested Read: 17 Famous Festivals In Gujarat

5. Durga Puja: Of Prosperity, Goodness, And Devotion (9th October– 13th October)

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One of the important Hindu festivals of India, Durga Puja is celebrated with grandeur by Bengalis, throughout the country and is ranked as one of the top in the list of religious festivals of India. The 10 days of fast, feast, and worship of Goddess Durga are accompanied by cultural songs, dances, and dramas. Huge and beautiful Durga idols are made and placed in specially made artistic Pandals(canopies). People dress in traditional wear and go around the pandal-hopping, praying, and feasting.

Significance: It commemorates Lord Rama’s invocation of Goddess Durga before going to war with the demon king Ravana.
Key attractions: Plush pandals, incredibly beautiful ten armed Durga idols, and the puja
When: 10th day of Ashwina Shukla paksha according to the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which corresponds to September or October of the Gregorian calendar
Where: Kolkata and the metros are the best places to be in India during Durga Puja celebrations
Durga Puja 2024: 9th October– 13th October
Things To Do: Visit Durga Puja pandals to catch the true vibe of this celebration

Suggested Read: Durga Puja In Kolkata: A Guide To Feel The Joy Of This Festival

6. Krishna Janmashtami: The Birth Of The Mighty & Mischievous (26th August, Monday)

Janmashtami is again a beautiful one among the most important religious festivals of India. Janmashtami celebrations in Mathura and Vrindavan are very popular. People fast throughout the day and break it with a special meal after dusk which makes it one of the important in the list of festivals of India. Visiting temples, praying, dancing, and singing bhajans (hymns) at midnight is a part of the celebrations of the birth of Lord Krishna. Often, small children dress up like Lord Krishna on this day. Images and picturization of Krishna’s life story are depicted in the “jhankis” in temples. It is one of the popular festivals of India. 

Significance: It is the annual celebration of the birthday of Lord Krishna.
Key attractions: The Janmashtami puja and festivities in the temples and the jhaankis of Lord Krishna
When: The 8th day (Ashtami) of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) of the month of Bhadrapada according to the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which corresponds to August or September of the Gregorian calendar
Where: Celebrated by the Hindu community all over, but the festivities at Mathura and Vrindavan are very popular
Janmashtami 2024: 26th August, Monday
Things To Do: Visit Krishna temples and attend special puja that includes bhajans and jhankis

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7. Ganesh Chaturthi: Eleven Days Of Pampering Lord Ganesha! (6 September 3:01 pm – 7 September  5:37 pm)

Ganesh Chaturthi, another one of the important Hindu religious festivals of India , is a 10-day affair of colorful festivities. Huge handcrafted Ganesh idols are installed in homes or outdoors, in public pandals. Pujas are performed in the morning and the evening. The last day is the day of Visarjan – immersion of an idol in a water body. Cultural activities of singing, dancing, and theater, and free medical and blood donation camps are held.

Significance: It’s the birthday of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed God.
Key attractions: The beautifully crafted life size idols of Ganesha, and the immersion ceremony
When: The 4th day of the first fortnight (Shukla Chaturthi) in the month of Bhadrapada of the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which corresponds to August or September of the Gregorian calendar
Where: Celebrated in the states of Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh with fervor and gaiety
Ganesh Chaturthi 2024: 6 September 3:01 pm – 7 September  5:37 pm
Things To Do: Indulge in cultural activities, be a part of visarjan ceremony

Suggested Read: 10 Awesome Places To Celebrate Holi In India

8. Gurpurab: Religious Processions & Peaceful Hymns (Fri, 15 Nov, 2024)

One of the most important Sikh festivals of India, special assemblies on the lives and teachings of the gurus, and langars (community meals) are organized in the gurudwaras. Karah Prasad is distributed among all, and hymn chanting processions are held in the city. People light up their homes with lamps and candles and burst crackers to celebrate Gurpurab.

Significance: It is the celebration of the anniversary of the ten Sikh Gurus
Key attractions: The soulful Bhajan-Kirtan (hymns), Gurbani in the Gurdwaras, the Langar and the Karah Prasad
When: The full moon day in the month of Kartik of the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which corresponds
to November of the Gregorian calendar
Where: Celebrated by the Sikh community all over the world, especially in Punjab
Gurupurab 2024: Fri, 15 Nov, 2024
Things To Do: Visit gurudwara, indulge in sewa and langar, help needy, do charity 

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9. Raksha Bandhan: Strengthening The Bond Of Kinship (19 August, Monday)

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One of the famous festivals in the list of festivals of India, Rakhi is celebrated among Hindu. Signifying the brother-sister bonding, during Rakhi, the sister performs Aarti (prayer), applies tilak, and ties rakhi (a sacred thread) on the brother’s wrist wishing his well being. The brother, in return, vows to protect the sister. Another festival which has a strong similarity to Rakhi is Bhai Dooj which comes just after Diwali.

Significance: It symbolizes the strong bonding of a brother and sister.
Key attractions: The ritual of Rakhi and the brightly decked up markets showcasing a colourful variety of rakhis and sweets
When: The full moon day of Shravana month of the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which corresponds to August of the Gregorian calendar
Where: Particularly in North, Central and West India
Raksha Bandhan 2024: 19th August, Monday
Things To Do: Celebrate the day with your siblings

Suggested Read: 14 Vibrant Festivals In August In India

10. Eid-Ul-Fitr: Sumptuous Buffets & Sweet Festivities (10th April – 11th April, Wednesday – Thursday)

Eid is one of the major festivals of India for the Muslim community. People dress up in fineries, attend a special community prayer in the morning, visit friends, and relatives and exchange sweets. Children are given idi (money or gift) by elders.

Significance: It celebrates the conclusion of the holy month of fasting called Ramadan.
Key attractions: The beautifully decked up markets and mosques, the morning Eid namaz at the mosques, and the sweet dishes.
When: On the 1st day of the month of Shawwal of the lunar Hijri calendar, which corresponds to July of the Gregorian calendar
Where: Celebrated by Muslims all over the country
Eid Ul Fitr 2024: 10th April – 11th April, Wednesday – Thursday
Things To Do: Attend a special community prayer in the morning, visit friends, and relatives and exchange sweets

Suggested Read: 7 Awesome Places To Visit During Eid Holidays With Your Family This Year

11. Bihu: Dance, Music, And Laughter (14th April – 20th April, Saturday – Sunday)

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Popular among the festivals of India celebrated in the North East, Bihu is the harvest festival of Assam. During the month-long celebrations, young men and women wear their traditional clothes and perform the Bihu dance in the village fields and courtyards. During Bihu celebrations in India, a community feast is held with a lot of fanfare.

Significance: It’s the traditional new year celebration of Assamese.
Key attractions: The Bihu dance and the local cuisine – coconut ladoo, til pitha, ghila pitha, and fish pitika
When: 13th April
Where: Celebrated by the Assamese diaspora around the world, especially in Assam
Bihu 2024:14th April – 20th April, Saturday – Sunday
Things To Do: Wear traditional clothes and attend ceremonies, indulge in local rituals

Suggested Read: 18 Popular And Vibrant Harvest Festivals Of India

12. Hemis: Soothing Chants And Colourful Costumes (16th and 17th June, Sunday – Monday)

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Hemis, the two-day religious festival from Ladakh, is one of the most important festivals of India. It attracts a lot of locals and foreign tourists each year. The festivities include the Cham dance done by the priests to the tune of the traditional music of cymbals, drums, trumpets played by the monks. It’s among the most unique types of festival where the dancing priests dress up in elaborate brocade outfits and masks.

Significance: It’s the celebration of the birth anniversary of spiritual leader Padmasambhava, founder of Tibet Tantric Buddhism.
Key attractions: The scenic Hemis monastery and the Cham dance
When: 10th day (called Tse-Chu in the local language) of the Tibetan lunar month, which corresponds to June or July of the Gregorian calendar
Where: Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir
Hemis 2024:16th and 17th June, Sunday – Monday
Things To Do: Attend the ceremonies and processions by the priests

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13. Onam: Welcoming The Mighty Mahabali (6 September, 2024 – 15 September, 2024, Friday – Sunday)

Onam is among the important national festivals of India, wherein people wear traditional wear, adorn houses with Pookalam (floral designs), and prepare Onasadya (elaborate meal of about 13 dishes). Events such as Vallamkali (snake boat race), Kaikottikali (clap dance), Kathakali dance, and Pulikali procession (artists dressed and painted like tigers and hunters) are held.

Significance: It celebrates the homecoming of the legendary king Mahabali.
Key attractions: The spectacular Snake Boat Race, the enigmatic Kaikottikali dance, and the Elephant procession
When: In the month of Chingam of the Malayalam calendar, which corresponds to August or September of the Gregorian calendar
Where: Celebrated by people of all communities in the state of Kerala.
Onam 2024:6 September, 2024 – 15 September, 2024, Friday – Sunday
Things To Do: Attend boat races, and other ceremonies 

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14. Pongal: Rich Rangolis And Sweet Savories (15 January, 2024 – Thu, 18 January, Monday – Thursday)

The four-day long harvest festival of South India is one of the most famous festivals of India. People prepare Pongal dish and wear their traditional attire. On this famous festival of South India, celebrities include bonfires, dancing, cattle races, sweets, and savories. The houses look resplendent with Kolam designs (traditional floral designs made with rice, colored powders, and flower petals)

Significance: It’s a festival of thanksgiving to nature representing the first harvest of the year.
Key attractions: The variety of Kolam designs and cattle races
When: 14th January
Where: Celebrated by Tamils all over India, primarily in Tamil Nadu
Pongal 2024: 15 January, 2024 – Thu, 18 January, Monday – Thursday
Things To Do:  Bonfires, dancing, cattle races, sweets, and savories

Suggested Read: 20 Popular Food Festivals Around The World 

15. Christmas: Celebrating The Birth Of Jesus Christ (25th December, Wednesday)

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One of the most famous and awaited festivals in India and the world, Christmas happens to be of sheer significance for elders and children alike. Everyone regardless of their religion wait for this day, children specifically for the surprise gifts from Santa. All the churches are lit up and decorated to celebrate the birth of Lord Jesus.

Significance: Birthday of Lord Jesus
Key attractions: Christmas tree decoration, prayers, birth of Lord Jesus and Santa Claus
When: 25th December
Where: The festival is celebrated across India. The best places to celebrate Christmas in India are Goa, Pondicherry and Kerala.
Christmas 2024:25th December, Wednesday
Things To Do: Visit church and attend prayers, attend carnivals and celebrations

Suggested Read: 15 Must-Attend Events And Festivals In December In India

16. Easter: Celebrating The Resurrection Of Jesus Christ (Sunday, 31 March, 2024)

Just like other festivals in India and the world, Easter is also celebrated with much fervour and great religious solemnization in different parts of the country. Celebrated during Spring, Easter celebrations in India are distinguished by various colourful decorations, dance and plays, simmel and plum cakes, and bright lanterns adorning the streets.

Significance: Resurrection of Lord Jesus
Key attractions: Folk songs and dance, Easter eggs, cakes, chocolates, street decorations
Easter 2023: 9th April (Sunday)
Where: The festival is celebrated across India. The best places to celebrate Easter in India are Goa, Pondicherry, and Kerala
Easter 2024: Sunday, 31 March, 2024
Things To Do: Attend prayers

Suggested Read: Celebrate These 14 Indian Festivals In April

17. Baisakhi: The Rich Traditions And Cultural Prosperity (14th April, Friday)

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Baisakhi, one of the famous festivals of India is celebrated by the Sikh community of Punjab and those around the world. It celebrates the welcoming of the harvest season for the rabi crops. The Sikhs celebrate this festival with a lot of excitement and enthusiasm by performing local folk dances such as Giddha and Bhangra. The festival is of great religious significance in India as it marks the day when the tenth Guru of Sikhs, Guru Gobind Singh, laid out the foundation stone for the Panth Khalsa-the Order back in 1699.

Significance: Welcoming the harvest season
Key attractions: Folk dance like Bhangra and Giddha, Punjabi feasts, decorations in houses and Gurudwaras
When: 14th April (Thursday)
Where: The festival is celebrated across Sikh communities in India. The best place to celebrate Baisakhi in India is Punjab
Baisakhi 2024: 14th April, Friday
Things To Do: Visit gurudwaras, enjoy scumptious food served at celebrations, be a part of local celebrations

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18. Makar Sankranti: Hindu’s New Year (Monday, 15 Jan, 2024)

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Makar Sankranti is the real new year of North Indians and Sikhs which is celebrated just one day after Lohri. On this day, worship to God is performed to seek his blessings for the new year. It is in a way the end of winter and the beginning of spring which means the agricultural cycle for farmers. The dates are set according to solar cycles, unlike other Hindu festivals where dates are decided by lunar cycles. People celebrate this day by flying kites and having savory ‘Bajre ki khichdi’ and sweet ’til ladoo’. Gujaratis celebrate this festival by the name of Uttarayan.

Significance: Beginning of agricultural cycle
Key attractions: Kite flying
When: 14th January (Friday)
Where: The festival is celebrated across North Indian and Sikh communities in India. The best place to celebrate Makar Sankranti in India is North region
Makar Sankranti 2024: Monday, 15 Jan, 2024
Things To Do: Attend celebrations, visit temples and holy places

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19. Maha Shivratri: Devotion To Lord Shiva (Fri, 8 March, 2024, 9:57 pm – Sat, 9 March, 2024, 6:17 pm)

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Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this Indian festival holds great reverence among the devotees of Lord Shiva. It has a huge significance in Hindu mythology celebrated on the 14th day of the dark fortnight in the month of Phalgun. It is believed that whoever worships Lord Shiva on this day attains salvation and redemption from their sins. It is also among the most crucial festivals of India for unmarried and married women to attain marital bliss.

Significance: Devotion to Lord Shiva
Key attractions: Fasting and worshipping Lord Shiva
When: 1st March (Tuesday)
Where: India and Nepal
Maha Shivratri 2024: Fri, 8 March, 2024, 9:57 pm – Sat, 9 March, 2024, 6:17 pm
Things To Do: Visit temples and witness celebrations and festivity

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20. Basant Panchami: Dedicated to Goddess Saraswati (Wednesday, 14 February, 2024)

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Celebrated in the months of January or February, Basant Panchmi is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati and is one of the famous festivals of India. It is an important day for scholars and students when they worship the Goddess of Knowledge. It is widely celebrated in the states of Bihar, West Bengal, Assam, Odisha, Punjab, and Haryana. People in Rajasthan offer jasmine garlands to the goddess and langars are held in the state of Punjab.

Significance: It marks the beginning of spring
Key attractions: On this day, people wear yellow colored clothes and make yellow dishes like sweet saffron rice and kadhi.
When: It is celebrated on the fifth day of Magha month of Hindu calendar.
Where: states of Bihar West Bengal, Assam, Odisha, Punjab, and Haryana
Basant Panchami 2024: Wednesday, 14 February, 2024
Things To Do: Attend Saraswati Puja and celebrations 

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21. Mahavir Jayanti: Birth Of Lord Mahavir (Sunday, 21 April, 2024)

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Mahavir Janma Kalyanak is an important day for the people from Jain religion as it marks the birth of Lord Mahavir. If you have noticed, the statue of Lord Mahavir is given a Mahabhishek where it is bathed with milk and flowers. Even a grand procession of Lord Mahavira’s idol is carried out in the streets.

Significance: It is the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir
Key attractions: Prayers are offered and fasting is observed. Rath Yatra is also carried out.
When: It is celebrated on the 13th day of Chaitra month of Hindu Calendar
Where: It is widely celebrated in the states of Gujarat and Rajasthan
Mahavir Jayanti 2024: Sunday, 21 April, 2024
Things To Do: Attend grand processions, visit Jain temples

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22. Ugadi: A Festival To Thank The Deity (Tuesday, 9 April, 2024)

Ugadi is a regional new year celebration for the people of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana states. This auspicious harvest festival is observed by making rangolis on floor, decorations on doors called torana, buying and giving gifts and sharing special food. It is one of the famous festivals of India. 

Significance: IT is a harvest festival considered auspicious to start new work
Key attractions: Famous Ugadi delicacies like Pulihora, Ugadi Pachadi and Bobbatlu, prepared with raw mango, neem, jaggery and tamarind
When: On the first day of the Hindu lunisolar calendar month of Chaitra
Where: Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka
Ugadi 2024:Tuesday, 9 April, 2024
Things To Do: Attend local celebrations

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23. Chhath Puja: A Festival Dedicated To The Sun God (November 7th, Thursday)

The Chhath Puja is a 4 day long festival, dedicated to the worship of the sun god. The devotees pray to them thanking for the life, wealth and health of themselves as well as their family. Many also bathe in the holy Ganges river. Many devotees also fast during the puja, following the legend of the fast of Rama and Sita to honour the sun god.

Significance: The festival is dedicated to the worship of the sun god
Key attractions: Some devotees fast from food and water as a ritual of the puja
When: On the sixth day of the Hindu month of Kartika, which falls in October or November on the Gregorian Calendar
Where: Bihar
Chhath Puja 2024: November 7th, Thursday
Things To Do: Attend festivals, take bath in holy rivers, indulge in celebrations

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24. Govardhan Puja: The Day Lord Krishna Defeated Indra Dev (Saturday, 2 November, 2024)

Also known as Annakut Puja, Govardhan Puja is celebrated as the day when Lord Krishna defeated the god of thunder and rain, Indra. In Maharashtra, the same day is celebrated as Bali Pratipada while in Gujarat this day coincides with Gujarati New Year’s day.

Significance: Celebrated as the day when Lord Krishna defeated God Indra
Key attractions: On this day, food made of cereals like wheat, rice and leafy vegetables are cooked and offered to Lord Krishna
When: Most of the times it falls next day after Diwali
Where: All across India
Govardhan Puja 2024: Saturday, 2 November, 2024
Things To Do: Go for Govardhan parikrama, visit temples and celebrations

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25. Gudi Padwa – Grand Harvest Festival Of Maharashtra (Tuesday, 9 April, 2024)

Gudi Padwa is a grand harvest festival mainly celebrated in the state of Maharashtra marking the beginning of an auspicious New Year. People make rangoli designs at the entrance of their homes and decorate it with flowers. Folks meet friends and relatives, and women cook sweets like Shrikhand, Puran Poli and Sunth Paak.

Significance: On this festival, people pray to Lord Vishnu
Key attractions: Local people make Gudi (bamboo doll) using mango and neem leaves and hang them at the entrance
When: Tuesday, 9 April, 2024
Where: Maharashtra
Gudi Padwa 2024: Tuesday, 9 April, 2024
Things To Do: Attend celebrations

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26. Republic Day – Anniversary Of The Constitution Of India (26th January, Friday)

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Republic Day is one of those festivals in India where patriotism amidst the citizens is at its peak. For this was the day when the constitution of India came into existence and the transition of the country from a British Dominion to a republic took place. This happened in the year 1950, three years after India got independence. Every year, this day is celebrated with great pride and excitement.

Significance: Celebrated as the day when the Constitution of India came into existence.
Key attractions: On this day, a grand parade is held every year that commences from Rashtrapati Bhavan and continues to Rajpath, India Gate, and then finally Red Fort.
When: 26th January (Tuesday)
Where: All across India
Things To Do: Attend Republic Day parade, indulge in celebrations 

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27. Camel Festival – The Cattle Trading Fest (13th to 15th January 2024)

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Taking place in Pushkar every year, this is one of the most interesting festivals in India. When the sandy floors of Pushkar are covered with camels, it is truly a sight to behold. This is that one festival that one should witness when looking for some ancient and old traditional-style Indian celebrations. Initially, the festival was celebrated to attract the local camel and cattle traders to do business during the holy Kartik Purnima festival.

Significance: Celebrated as the holy day for cattle and camel traders to do business.
Key attractions: On this day, camel and cattle traders get together to do business on the holy Kartik Purnima festival.
When: 20th Nov – 28th Nov
Where: Pushkar, Rajasthan

Pushkar Festival 2023: 20th Nov – 28th Nov
Things To Do: Visit Pushkar and indulge in festivity

28. Kumbh Mela – Major Pilgrimage Festival In Hinduism (January 14th 2024 , to March 8, 2024)

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One of the most religious festivals of India, Kumbh Mela is celebrated in a cycle of 12 years, approximately at four banks of rivers that are considered holy – namely Prayag, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain. The pilgrims in this festival dip in the holy waters to get rid of all their sins in life. Along with this, the celebrations also include exorbitant fair, religious discourses by gurus and saints, mass feedings of the poor, and more!

Significance: Celebrated based on the astrological positions of the Sun, the Moon, and Jupiter.
Key attractions: Millions and millions of pilgrims visit the Kumbh Mela and dip in the holy rivers.
When:date will be announced soon
Where: Haridwar, Allahabad, Ujjain, and Nasik (On rotation)
Kumbh Mela: date will be announced soon
Things To Do: Take bath in the holy river, attend ceremonies and pujas, attend lectures by spiritual gurus

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29. Losar – The Tibetan New Year (Sat, 10 Feb, 2024 – Mon, 12 Feb, 2024)

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A famous Tibetan festival, Losar is one of the greatest Indian festivals and celebrations. Majorly celebrated in the neighbouring region, Tibet, Losar is a festival that is also celebrated in India by the Tibetans or the followers of Buddhism residing in this nation. Losar is the Tibetan New Year that is celebrated in a fun and frolic way. This also involves a way to show gratitude to God for the harvest.

Significance: Celebrated as the day when the lunar pattern, according to the Tibetan calendar, begins.
Key attractions: The celebrations are spread over three days, where different activities take place on each day.
When: 21st February (Tuesday)
Where: Himachal Pradesh, Leh And Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh
Losar 2023: Begins on 3rd March (Thursday) and will  end on 5th March (Saturday)
Things To Do: Indulge in local celebrations

30. Hornbill Festival – The Festival Of Festivals (Sun, 1 Dec, 2024 – Tue, 10 Dec, 2024)

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One of the grand festivals falling in the list of Indian festivals that is celebrated in Nagaland is none other than the Hornbill. This week long festival is celebrated to show respect to their culture and folklore. Also famed as the ‘Festival of Festivals’, Hornbill is all about celebrating the ancient tribal traditions, lifestyles, and heritage.

Significance: Celebrated as the day to promote intercultural harmony between various tribes.
Key attractions: On this day, there are various activities that take place throughout the week such as horse-riding, craft space, painting, flower show, herbal medicine sales, chilli eating challenge, performances, sports, games, and much more!
When: 1st December 2023 to 10th December 2023
Where: Nagaland
Hornbill Festival 2023: Begins on 1st December (Friday) and will  end on 10th December (Sunday)
Things To Do: Horse-riding, craft space, painting, flower show, herbal medicine sales, chilli eating challenge, performances

31. Mewar Festival – An Insight Into Rajasthani Culture (April 11th to 13th, 2024)

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This festival happens in the city of Rajasthan, Udaipur. The festival is celebrated to mark the arrival of the spring season. If you want to be a witness to the cultural and traditional aspects of Rajasthan at large, you shouldn’t forget to attend this festival. This festival has a vast history and has been celebrated since when the Sisodia Dynasty was ruling India.

Significance: Celebrated to welcome the season of Spring
Key attractions: the whole festival is quite colorful and women in Udaipur can be seen actively taking part in the various ceremonies
When: Begins on 5th March
Where: Udaipur
Mewar Festival 2023: 5th March – 6th March
Things To Do: Attend celebrations 

Suggested Read: 29 Best Adventure Destinations In India 

32. Buddha Jayanti – Celebrating The Birth Of A Spiritual Being (Thu, 23 May, 2024)

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This is one of the holiest festivals celebrated in the country of India. It is also known by the name Buddha Purnima. The festival is celebrated as the birthday of Gautama Buddha who introduced the philosophy of Buddhism in the world. In order to make the most of this day, people indulge themselves in attending Buddhist teachings and wear white clothes to follow the tradition.

Significance: People celebrate this festival because on this day Gautama Buddha was born
Key attractions: on this day, people impart the teachings of Buddhism and everyone wears white clothes
When: 5th May
Where: Darjeeling, Bodh Gaya, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Kurseong, Darjeeling, and Maharashtra
Buddha Jayanti 2023: 5th May (Friday)
Things To Do: Visit Buddhist temples and monasteries, attend lectures and prayers

Suggested Read: 25 Mesmerizing Hill Stations In South India

33. Thrissur Pooram – When Moon And Pooram Star Rise Together (Thu, 23 May, 2024)

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Considered amongst the most famous of all the festivals celebrated in Kerala, Thrissur Pooram will be a great event to attend. People from around the country gather to celebrate this festival. The celebrations for Thrissur Pooram do not end before 36  hours. Fireworks, as well as Parasol displays, form a crucial part of this festival.

Significance: The festival is celebrated to commemorate the establishment of 10 temples around Vadakkunnathan Temple
Key attractions: attend this festival to observe Parasol displays and fireworks 
When: 1st May, Monday 2023
Where: Thrissur
Thrissur Pooram 2024: Thu, 23 May, 2024
Things To Do: Attend the processions

34. Ratha Yatra – A Festival Celebrated For Lord Jagannath (Sun, 7 July, 2024)

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This is a festival of chariots that is celebrated as an event dedicated to Lord Jagannath. People assemble at the famous Puri Jagannath Temple in the Indian state of Odisha. The idols of Goddess Subhadra, Lord Jagannath, and Lord Balabhadra are placed on a chariot and taken out for the procession.                                                                                                                     

Significance: It is celebrated to pay reverence to the Lord Jagannath
Key attractions: chariots with the idols of Lord Jagannath, Goddess Subhadra, and Lord Balabhadra are taken out on a chariot
When: Sun, 7 July, 2024
Where: Puri
Things To Do: Attend Rath Yatra

35. Dree Festival – A Harvest Festival In Arunachal Pradesh (5th July 2024)

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Celebrated in the picturesque Ziro Valley of Arunachal Pradesh, this festival is the biggest harvest festival that happens here. This festival is celebrated to gather people together and pray for a successful harvest. Moreover, people are served with cucumber, symbolizing the richness of the harvest. 

Significance: This is considered to be one of the major harvest festivals in India
Key attractions: people assemble and pray unanimously for the smooth harvest
When: July
Where: Ziro Valley
Dree Festival 2024: 5th July 2024
Things To Do: Attend ceremonies

36. Independence Day – Celebration Of Freedom (15th August, Sunday)

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One of the most crucial and celebrated national festivals, Independence Day is celebrated to feel the spirit of India’s freedom. The flag hoisting ceremony is also held during this day, carried out by the Prime Minister of India at Red Fort. This event is then followed by 21 gunshots that are fired as a way to give salutation. 

Significance: Celebrated to commemorate the freedom attained on 15th August, 1947
Key attractions: the salutation given through 21 gunshots and the Prime Minister of India hoisting the flag
Where: Delhi
Independence Day: 15th August, Sunday
Things To Do: Celebrate your freedom with friends and loved ones, fly kites, attend ceremonies, feel patriotic

Further Read: Skydiving In India

The myriad of important festivals of India boasts of the nation’s rich and varied culture and the religious sentiments of the people. Hope this list of famous festivals of India sparked an urge to travel to different places and be a part of celebrations. If you want to know a little more about the Indian festive spirit, these commonly-asked questions will be helpful. And don’t hesitate to plan a trip to India !

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Frequently Asked Questions About Famous Festivals Of India

Which is the most celebrated festival in India?

The diverse cultural communities in India celebrate countless festivals, each one in its own way, and all of them bring together people from different walks of life. Some of the most celebrated festivals in India include 1. Diwali 2. Holi 3. Dussehra 4. Ramadan/ Eid –Ul-Fitr 5. Christmas 6. Ganesh Chaturthi 7. Durga Pooja

Which are the festivals for which India is famous worldwide?

Some of the most popular festivals in India which are also celebrated internationally are Diwali · Holi, Ganesh Chaturthi, Durga Puja, Navaratri, Dussehra, Eid al-Fitr, Onam, Pongal, and Pushkar Camel Fair.

Which famous festivals of India are celebrated by all communities?

Some of the most popular festivals in India that are celebrated all across the country and most people participate in despite their religious beliefs are Diwali, Holi, Christmas, and Pushkar Camel Fair.

Which are the famous festivals of South India?

Onam and Pongal are the main harvest festivals in South India celebrated in August-September and January respectively. Offering prayers to Hindu deities and family feasts are the highlights of these festivals. Besides, Nehru Trophy Race in Kerala is a popular festival that sees a large audience flocking to see the competition. Another one of the famous festivals of South India is the Hampi Festival. These celebrations in India are held in Karnataka and exhibit the essence of culture and history through music, dance, drama, and art.

Which are the different festivals related to farming celebrated in India?

Onam, Makar Sankranti, Baisakhi, Lohri, Wangala, Nuakhai, and Ugadi are some famous harvest festivals in India. The celebrations include a community gala featuring prayers to God, family gatherings, new clothes, music, dance, and feasts.

Which festival is celebrated in the spring season?

Holi is the major festival celebrated in the Spring Season in India. The festival is also given names like Festival of Colors and Festival of Love. It is celebrated with organic colours and water while a number of delicacies such as Gujiya and Dahi Bhalle are prepared in different states of the country.

How many festivals are celebrated in India?

There are diverse religions in India and each of these religions has its own number of festivals. Every state in India has about 20 to 30 grand festivals that are celebrated at different times of the year. Ganesh Chaturthi, Independence Day, Holi, Deepavali, Navratri, Gudi Padwa, Eid, and Republic Day are some of the most important festivals of India.

What are the national festivals of India?

Republic Day, Independence Day, and Gandhi Jayanti are the three national festivals of India since they are all centred around Indian Independence and hold a connection to India’s Freedom Struggle from British colonial rule. The Indian government makes grand preparations for these festivals each year on a massive scale and the country celebrates these in unison. Republic Day is celebrated each year on 26th January, while Independence Day is celebrated on 15th August and Gandhi Jayanti on 2nd October.

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