Come to think of it, around 70% of these festivals are unknown to me but researching about them definitely exposed me to the various cultures and beliefs that is prevalent across India - one of the most vibrant nations where festivals thrive in every nook and cranny.
While I have attended quite a few very year, namely Durga Puja, Dusshera (because I am a Bong who keeps shifting to Calcutta during the Pujas), the rest remains a mystery which I am eager to solve by attending them.
Although it would be tedious to attend all, but I am sure to take my pick and plan my calendar accordingly so that I don't miss my preferred ones!
Here comes the list:
July
1. International Mango Festival
With over 400 species of mangoes from across India this vibrant event showcases a kaleidoscope of mango varieties from around the world, offering a sensory delight for fruit enthusiasts. From succulent tastings to engaging workshops on mango cultivation, this festival is a paradise for mango lovers.
Where: Mumbai, Delhi
When: 30th June - 02nd July (Mumbai) 22nd of July (Delhi)
2. Amarnath Yatra
This sacred festival holds immense significance as it commemorates Lord Shiva's divine manifestation in the mystical Amarnath Cave. Witnessed by devotees from far and wide, this awe-inspiring journey symbolizes spiritual enlightenment and a profound connection with the divine.
Where: Amarnath
When: Starts from 01st July
3. Champakulam Boat Race
The Champakulam Boat Race, originating from the serene backwaters of Kerala, is a captivating spectacle that dates back centuries. Celebrated with great enthusiasm, this traditional event showcases beautifully decorated snake boats gliding through the waters, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of traditional music and spirited cheers from the spectators.
Where: Champakkulam, Alappuzha, Kerala
When: 03rd July
4. Dree Festival
Originating from the Apatani tribe, this festival celebrates the agricultural harvest with vibrant rituals, traditional dances, and offerings to the gods. Join in the jubilant festivities as locals adorn themselves in colorful attire, showcase traditional music and dance performances, and indulge in feasts of delicious tribal delicacies.
Where: Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh
When: 04th July – 05th July
5. Behdienkhlam Festival
Behdienkhlam Festival, originating from the Pnar tribe of Meghalaya, celebrates the triumph of good over evil and marks the onset of the agricultural season. This vibrant festival showcases rhythmic dances, where participants energetically stomp on the ground with bamboo poles to drive away malevolent spirits and bring prosperity to the community.
Where: Meghalaya
When: 08th July
6. Karsha Gustor Festival
Held in the serene village of Karsha, Ladakh, this vibrant celebration combines ancient rituals, masked dances, and spiritual fervor. Witness the monastery come alive as monks adorned in colorful costumes perform sacred dances to ward off evil spirits.
Where: Karsha Monastery, Zanskar
When: 15th July – 16th July
7. Bonalu Festival
Originating from the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad in India, this festival is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Mahakali. During Bonalu, devotees offer vibrant processionals, adorned with turmeric, vermillion, and flowers, carrying pots filled with offerings to honor the deity and seek her blessings.
Where: Hyderabad/ Secunderabad
When:
9th July - Secunderabad Mahankali Bonalu
10th July – Rangam
16th July - Old City & Lal Darwaza Bonalu
17th July - Vuregimpu
8. Korzok Gustor
Experience Ladakh's enchanting Korzok Gustor festival, a vibrant celebration of masked dances, religious rituals, and colorful processions at the historic Korzok Monastery. This ancient tradition symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and offers a mesmerizing glimpse into Ladakhi culture and spirituality.
Where: Korzok Monastery
When: 21st July – 22nd July
9. Takthok Tsechu
Immerse yourself in the captivating Takthok Tsechu festival, originated in the ancient Takthok Monastery in Ladakh, India. Celebrated with grandeur, this vibrant festival showcases mesmerizing mask dances, religious rituals, and sacred ceremonies, attracting locals and visitors alike to experience the spiritual essence of Ladakh's rich cultural heritage.
Where: Takthok Monastery
When: 28th July – 29th July
August
10. Sani Naro Nasjal
In the remote and enchanting region of Zanskar, nestled deep within the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, lies a hidden gem of cultural heritage – the Sani Naro Nasjal Festival. Celebrated with fervor and enthusiasm, this vibrant festival is a significant event in the lives of the local Buddhist community.
Zanskar, renowned for its awe-inspiring landscapes and serene monasteries, comes alive during the Sani Naro Nasjal Festival. The festival takes place in the Sani Monastery, one of the oldest and most revered monastic establishments in the region. Perched majestically amidst the rugged mountains, the monastery becomes a center of spiritual and cultural gatherings during this annual celebration.
Where: Sani Monastery, Zanskar
When: 31st July – 01st August
11. Malabar River Festival
Get ready to ride the waves and experience the adrenaline rush at the Malabar River Festival. Originating from the passionate kayaking community in Kerala, this festival has become a thrilling celebration of the region's untamed rivers where enthusiasts from around the world showcase their skill and camaraderie.
Where: Chalipuzha & Iruvazhinjipuzha Kozhikode
When: 04th August – 06th August
12. Nehru Trophy Boat Race, Kerala
Rooted in a legendary water regatta held in honor of India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, this festival showcases the spirit of unity and friendly competition among the local communities.
Where: Punnamda Lake, near Alappuzha
When: 13th August
13. Independence Day
Marks the origin of a nation's independence and the triumph of freedom over oppression. It holds immense significance as it commemorates the day when a diverse nation came together, united in their pursuit of liberty and equality.
Where: India
When: 15th of August
14. Teej
Teej is a vibrant festival celebrated predominantly by women in various parts of India, especially Rajasthan and parts of North India. This joyous occasion pays homage to the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, symbolizing the bond of love and devotion. With its significance deeply rooted in prayers for marital bliss and fertility, Teej brings together colorful festivities, lively music, and traditional rituals that create an atmosphere of joy and celebration.
Where: Rajasthan and Chandigarh
When: 19th August
15. Onam, Kerala
Originating from ancient legends, Onam is a vibrant harvest festival celebrated with great enthusiasm in the beautiful state of Kerala. This joyous occasion marks the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali and showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Where: All over Kerala
When: 20th August – 31st August
September
16. Pulikali Tiger Dance
Pulikali Tiger Dance, originating from the state of Kerala in India, is a mesmerizing folk art festival held annually between July and December. Participants paint themselves as tigers and perform energetic dances, reenacting hunts and scenes from rural life, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil while invoking a sense of unity and joy within the community. This vivid and exhilarating spectacle is a true testament to the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.
Where: Kerala
When: 01st September
17. Janmashtami
Celebrate Janmashtami, a joyous Hindu festival that marks the birth of Lord Krishna. Originating from ancient Indian mythology, the festival holds great significance as it symbolizes the victory of good over evil. Devotees immerse themselves in vibrant celebrations, reenacting Krishna's childhood pranks and teachings, and seeking blessings for a life filled with love, wisdom, and spiritual enlightenment.
Where: All Indian states
When: 06th September - 07th September
18. Mount Mary Festival (Bandra Fair)
The Mount Mary Festival, a revered annual event in Mumbai, originated in the 16th century to honor Our Lady of Mount Carmel. This vibrant festival brings together people of different faiths, attracting pilgrims from far and wide to seek blessings and participate in processions, while the accompanying fair delights attendees with its diverse stalls, street food, and cultural performances.
Where: Bandra, Mumbai
When: Sunday following the 08th September
19. The Outback Festival
Discover the captivating spirit of Leh during the vibrant Outback Festival, a celebration that originated from the indigenous communities of Ladakh. This festival holds immense significance as it showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region through traditional music, dance performances, and captivating rituals, providing a unique opportunity for travelers to immerse themselves in the vibrant tapestry of Ladakhi traditions.
Where: Leh, Ladakh
When: 16th September – 17th September
20. Ganesh Chaturthi In Mumbai
Originating in the late 19th century as a public event promoted by Lokmanya Tilak, Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, the revered deity of wisdom and prosperity. This ten-day festival fills the city with intricately crafted Ganesha idols and vibrant processions, as devotees immerse them in the Arabian Sea, symbolizing the departure of obstacles and the arrival of blessings. Mumbai's cultural spirit truly shines during this electrifying celebration.
Where: All over India – special mention Mumbai
When: 18th September
October
21. Ziro Festival Of Music
The Ziro Festival of Music originated in 2012 in the picturesque town of Ziro, located in the scenic state of Arunachal Pradesh, India. Nestled amidst the misty mountains, this annual music extravaganza celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous Apatani tribe and showcases a diverse lineup of talented artists from across the country.
Known for its offbeat location and serene ambiance, the Ziro Festival of Music offers a unique blend of live performances, local cuisine, and an immersive experience in the lap of nature. This four-day festival not only fosters a sense of community and cultural exchange but also promotes sustainable tourism and supports local artists, making it a must-visit event for music enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable cultural journey in India.
Where: Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh
When: 28th of September - 01st October
22. Ramnagar Ramlila
Ramnagar Ramlila, a grand festival held in the historic town of Ramnagar, Uttar Pradesh, has its roots in the ancient epic Ramayana. With a history spanning centuries, this vibrant event brings to life the mythological tale of Lord Rama and showcases the rich cultural heritage of India. The festival holds immense significance as it reenacts the epic battle between good and evil, captivating spectators with its elaborate sets, captivating performances, and a profound sense of devotion.
Where: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
When: 15th October – 24th October
23. Durga Puja
Durga Puja, one of India's most vibrant festivals, originated from Hindu mythology. It commemorates the victory of the goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. This grand celebration symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and is marked by elaborate decorations, lively processions, and fervent worship, inviting people of all ages and backgrounds to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of India.
Where: West Bengal
When: 20th October – 24th October
24. Dusshera
Dussehra, one of India's most vibrant festivals, originated from the ancient Hindu epic, Ramayana. It commemorates Lord Rama's victory over the ten-headed demon king, Ravana, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. Celebrated with grand processions, theatrical performances, and the burning of effigies, Dussehra holds immense significance as it encourages the spirit of righteousness and inspires individuals to overcome adversity.
Where: All over India
When: 24th October
25. Rajasthan International Folk Festival
The Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF) is an annual cultural event that takes place in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India. Originating in 2007, RIFF celebrates the rich folk music and arts of Rajasthan, showcasing the vibrant heritage and traditions of the region.
RIFF serves as a platform for talented folk artists from Rajasthan and around the world to come together and perform. It promotes cultural exchange, fosters artistic collaboration, and creates awareness about the endangered art forms of Rajasthan, making it a vital event in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the region.
Where: Jodhpur, Rajasthan
When: 26th October – 30th October
November
26. Wangala Festival
The Wangala Festival, originating from the Garo tribe in Meghalaya, India, is a vibrant harvest festival celebrated with great enthusiasm. Signifying gratitude to the Sun God for a bountiful harvest, this cultural extravaganza features traditional dances, vibrant costumes, and rhythmic beats of drums, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Garo people.
Where: Meghalaya
When: 10th November
27. Bundi Utsav
Experience the vibrant colors and cultural extravaganza at Bundi Utsav, a festival originating from the enchanting city of Bundi in Rajasthan, India. Celebrated between July and December each year, this festival showcases the rich heritage and traditions of Rajasthan through folk music, dance performances, puppet shows, and a grand procession of beautifully adorned elephants, camels, and horses. Immerse yourself in the joyous atmosphere and witness the significance of Bundi Utsav, which not only fosters cultural preservation but also promotes tourism, attracting visitors from around the world.
Where: Bundi, Rajasthan
When: 11th November – 13th November
28. Pushkar Camel Fair
Nestled in the heartland of Rajasthan, the Pushkar Camel Fair is a vibrant celebration that traces its origins back to ancient times. This annual extravaganza, held in the town of Pushkar, brings together traders, pilgrims, and locals from far and wide to immerse themselves in a unique fusion of spirituality, cultural heritage, and camel trading.
As one of the world's largest camel fairs, the Pushkar Camel Fair holds immense significance for both religious and commercial reasons. Pilgrims flock to the sacred Pushkar Lake to cleanse their souls during the auspicious month of Kartik (October/November), while traders showcase a splendid array of camels and other livestock, facilitating vibrant trade and economic opportunities. The fair also features various competitions, performances, and cultural events, making it a captivating spectacle for visitors seeking an authentic and unforgettable Indian experience.
Where: Pushkar, Rajasthan
When: 11th November – 19th November
29. Diwali
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, originates from ancient Hindu mythology. It celebrates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after his 14-year exile and victory over the demon king Ravana. Symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, Diwali is a joyous occasion when people illuminate their homes with oil lamps, burst firecrackers, exchange sweets, and seek blessings for a prosperous year ahead.
Where: All over India
When: 12th November
30. Ganga Mahotsav and Dev Deepavali
Originating from the ancient city of Varanasi, Dev Deepavali, also known as the "Festival of Lights of the Gods," is a grand celebration that occurs on the auspicious day of Kartik Purnima, fifteen days after Diwali. It is a joyous occasion where devotees illuminate the ghats (steps leading to the river) with countless earthen lamps, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
Dev Deepavali holds immense religious and cultural significance as it marks the triumph of good over evil. Devotees believe that on this day, the gods descend to the mortal realm to take a dip in the holy Ganges. By lighting lamps and offering prayers, devotees express their gratitude and seek blessings from the deities. The spectacle of the illuminated ghats, coupled with the grand Ganga Aarti and mesmerizing fireworks, creates an enchanting ambiance that attracts visitors from all corners of the world.
Where: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
When: 18th November
31. Majuli Raas Mahotsav
Majuli Raas Mahotsav, held annually in Assam, India, is a vibrant festival rooted in the ancient tradition of Raas Leela. Originating in the 16th century, the festival pays homage to Lord Krishna's divine love and plays an integral role in preserving and showcasing Assamese cultural heritage. With mesmerizing dance performances, music, and elaborate costumes, Majuli Raas Mahotsav captivates visitors, offering a glimpse into the rich folklore and religious fervor of the region.
Where: Assam
When: 21st November – 24th November
32. The Sangai festival of Manipur
The Sangai Festival, originated in Manipur, India, is an annual extravaganza that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the state. Named after the endangered Manipur brow-antlered deer, Sangai, this festival brings together various ethnic communities to exhibit their traditional music, dance, art, and culinary delights, creating a vibrant tapestry of Manipuri culture and fostering unity among its people.
Where: Manipur
When: 21st November – 30th November
33. ProWine Mumbai
ProWine Mumbai, an international wine and spirits trade fair, originated as an offshoot of ProWein, one of the world's leading trade fairs for wines and spirits held annually in Düsseldorf, Germany. The festival serves as a platform for wine enthusiasts, industry professionals, and connoisseurs to explore and celebrate the rich heritage of Indian wines, fostering international collaborations and showcasing the country's emerging wine industry. It offers a unique opportunity to discover a diverse range of Indian and international wines while promoting India as a growing wine destination.
Where: Jio World Convention Centre, Bandra Kurla Complex, Mumbai
When: 24th November – 25th November
34. Ka Pomblang Nongkrem
In the picturesque state of Meghalaya, India, the enchanting Ka Pomblang Nongkrem festival takes center stage between July and December. With origins deeply rooted in the Khasi tribal culture, this vibrant festival symbolizes a bountiful harvest and serves as a way to express gratitude to the goddess Ka Blei Synshar for her blessings while showcasing traditional dance forms and rituals.
Where: Smit, the cultural centre of the Khasi Hills in Meghalaya, India is about 11km from Shillong.
When: November (Dates to be confirmed)
35. Rann Utsav
Rann Utsav, held in Gujarat, India, originated as a celebration of the vibrant culture and captivating landscape of the Rann of Kutch. This annual festival showcases the rich heritage of Gujarat through folk music, dance, art, and handicrafts, offering visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the enchanting beauty of the salt marshes and witness the traditional way of life of the region's communities.
Where: Gujrat
When: November (Dates to be confirmed)
36. Hamir Utsav
The Hamir Utsav, originating from the historic city of Pragpur in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, is a captivating festival that pays homage to the legendary warrior, Raja Hamir Chand. With cultural performances, traditional music, and reenactments of historical battles, this festival symbolizes the valor and rich heritage of the region, captivating visitors with its grandeur and historical significance.
Where: Harimpur, Himachal Pradesh
When: 1st week of November
37. Puri Beach Festival
Originating in the coastal city of Puri, Odisha, the Puri Beach Festival is a vibrant celebration that takes place annually between July and December. The festival emerged as a platform to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Odisha, featuring captivating dance performances, sand art exhibitions, thrilling water sports, and mouthwatering local delicacies.
The Puri Beach Festival holds great significance as it brings together artists, craftsmen, and tourists from all over the world, creating a harmonious blend of tradition and entertainment. This extravaganza not only showcases the artistic brilliance of Odisha but also allows visitors to indulge in the serene beauty of the Puri beach while immersing themselves in the vibrant festivities, making it a must-visit destination for culture enthusiasts and beach lovers alike.
Where: Puri, Odisha
When: November (Dates to be confirmed)
38. Matsya Festival
Experience the vibrant Matsya Festival, originating from Rajasthan, India. Celebrated in the month of November, this colorful extravaganza pays homage to the region's rich cultural heritage and reverence for the majestic Matsya avatar (fish incarnation) of Lord Vishnu, showcasing traditional folk performances, captivating dance forms, and intricate handicrafts that delight every traveler.
Where: Alwar, Rajasthan
When: Last week of November
December
39. Hornbill Festival
The Hornbill Festival, originating from the state of Nagaland in Northeast India, is a captivating cultural extravaganza held annually in the first week of December. This festival holds great significance as it showcases the rich traditions, customs, and art forms of the Naga tribes, providing a unique opportunity to witness their vibrant heritage in one place. Visitors can immerse themselves in tribal dances, traditional music, sporting events, and local cuisine, making it an unforgettable experience of Naga culture.
Where: Kohima, Nagaland
When: 01st December – 10th December
40. Galdan Namchot
Galdan Namchot, originating from the pristine valleys of Ladakh in India, is a vibrant festival celebrated during the winter months, typically falling in December. It commemorates the birth anniversary of the revered Tibetan saint, Je Tsongkhapa, and marks the onset of the winter solstice.
Signifying the triumph of light over darkness, Galdan Namchot illuminates the Ladakhi landscape with thousands of twinkling lights, as homes, monasteries, and streets are adorned with butter lamps and colorful decorations. The festival holds deep spiritual significance, as devotees pray for peace, happiness, and enlightenment. It also serves as a joyous occasion for the Ladakhi community to come together, engaging in traditional music, dance, and feasts, creating an atmosphere of warmth and unity.
Where: All over Ladakh
When: 07th December
41. Bangalore Literature Festival
The Bangalore Literature Festival, born in 2012, has become an esteemed annual celebration of literature, ideas, and cultural diversity. This vibrant festival brings together renowned authors, thinkers, and literary enthusiasts from around the world to engage in captivating discussions, book launches, workshops, and performances, creating a unique platform for the exchange of ideas and the promotion of literary arts in India's "Garden City."
Where: The Lalit Ashok, Bengaluru
When: 09th December – 10th December
42. Magnetic Fields Festival
Magnetic Fields Festival, born in 2013, is an annual extravaganza that takes place in December in Alsisar Mahal, a stunning 17th-century palace in Rajasthan, India. This three-day festival celebrates the essence of underground music, merging it with immersive art installations and captivating cultural experiences, drawing a diverse crowd of music enthusiasts and adventure seekers from around the globe. With its unique blend of ancient grandeur and contemporary beats, Magnetic Fields Festival creates an unforgettable atmosphere that resonates with the spirit of exploration and creativity.
Where: Alsisar, Rajasthan
When: 09th December – 11th December
43. Cochin Carnival
Cochin Carnival, one of India's most exuberant festivals, traces its roots back to the Portuguese New Year revelries introduced to the city during their colonial rule. Held annually in the enchanting coastal city of Kochi, Kerala, this week-long extravaganza symbolizes the spirit of merriment and showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region. With colorful processions, traditional dances, music performances, and a grand display of fireworks, the Cochin Carnival invites locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in the festive fervor and experience the vibrant essence of South India.
Where: Fort Kochi, Ernakulam
When: 12th December – 01st January 2024
44. Ladakhi Losar
Experience the vibrant Ladakhi Losar festival, originating from the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, celebrated in the enchanting region of Ladakh, India. This joyous occasion marks the Tibetan New Year, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, and is characterized by mesmerizing masked dances, music, and feasts, bringing together locals and travelers in a spirit of unity and renewal.
Where: Ladakh
When: 13th December – 27th December
45. Marghazhi Village Festival
The Marghazhi Village Festival is a vibrant cultural extravaganza held in the rural villages of Tamil Nadu, India, during the auspicious month of Marghazhi (December to January). Originating from ancient Tamil traditions, this festival showcases the rich heritage of the region through classical music, dance performances, religious rituals, and vibrant local festivities. It holds immense significance as a platform for fostering spirituality, promoting local art forms, and bringing communities together in joyful celebration.
Where: Chennai
When: 17th December – 20th December
46. Satpura Music Festival Pachmarhi
In the heartland of India, the enchanting town of Pachmarhi plays host to the mesmerizing Satpura Music Festival. Originating from the rich cultural heritage of Madhya Pradesh, this festival celebrates the harmonious union of music and nature, showcasing captivating performances by renowned artists against the backdrop of the picturesque Satpura Range. Immerse yourself in soul-stirring melodies as you witness the significance of this festival, which aims to promote traditional Indian music while preserving the pristine beauty of the region's natural landscapes.
Where: Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh
When: 31st December
47. Faridabad Food Festival
The Faridabad Food Festival, originating from the vibrant city of Faridabad in Haryana, India, is a delightful celebration of diverse culinary traditions. This festival showcases the rich tapestry of flavors and aromas from various regions of India, allowing visitors to indulge in a gastronomic adventure like no other. With its wide array of delectable dishes and traditional delicacies, the festival serves as a melting pot of culture and a platform to appreciate the significance of food in Indian heritage.
Where: Surajkund, Faridabad, Haryana
When: 23rd December – 31st December
48. Perumthitta Tharavad
Perumthitta Tharavad, a vibrant festival held in Kerala, India, traces its origins back to the historic Perumthitta Tharavadu ancestral home. This annual extravaganza, usually observed in August, commemorates the revered deity Lord Sree Rama through enchanting rituals and cultural performances.
Perumthitta Tharavad festival holds immense significance as it pays homage to Lord Sree Rama, the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu, and celebrates the rich heritage and traditions of the region. The festivities feature captivating processions, classical art forms like Kathakali and Theyyam, and soul-stirring devotional music, offering devotees and spectators a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the cultural tapestry of Kerala.
Where: Kottamkuzhy in the district of Kasaragod
When: December (Dates to be confirmed)
49. Chennai Music Festival
The Chennai Music Festival, also known as the Margazhi Music Festival, originated in the early 20th century as a celebration of classical Carnatic music in the city of Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Signifying a vibrant tapestry of musical heritage, the festival spans the month of December and showcases renowned musicians from across the country. With its myriad concerts, lecture demonstrations, and competitions, the festival provides a platform for preserving and promoting the rich traditions of Carnatic music, attracting music aficionados and artists alike from around the world.
Where: Chennai
When: December (Dates to be confirmed)
50. Karthigai Deepam
Karthigai Deepam, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a popular Hindu festival celebrated in various parts of India, particularly in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. With its origins dating back thousands of years, this vibrant festival holds deep cultural and religious significance.
Originating from ancient scriptures, Karthigai Deepam commemorates the divine manifestation of Lord Shiva as a towering flame of light. The festival is observed on the day of Karthigai Pournami (full moon day) in the Tamil month of Karthigai (November-December), symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness.
During Karthigai Deepam, homes and temples are adorned with traditional oil lamps, beautifully illuminating the surroundings. Devotees offer prayers to Lord Shiva and seek blessings for prosperity and well-being. The lighting of the massive ceremonial lamp called "Mahadeepam" atop the holy hill of Thiruvannamalai draws pilgrims from all over the country, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
Where: Tiruvannamalai,Tamil Nadu
When: 26th November
51. Feast Of Francis Xavier
In the sunny coastal state of Goa, India, the Feast of Francis Xavier is a vibrant celebration that honors the life and legacy of Saint Francis Xavier, the patron saint of Goa. Originating in the 16th century, this festival attracts thousands of devotees from around the world who gather at the Basilica of Bom Jesus to pay homage to the revered saint, seeking blessings, and participating in processions and religious ceremonies. It is a time of deep religious significance, cultural richness, and communal harmony, making it a must-see event for travelers seeking an authentic spiritual experience in India.
Where: Goa
When: 03rd December
52. Bishnupur Festival
Bishnupur Festival, originating in the town of Bishnupur in West Bengal, India, is a vibrant celebration that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region. This festival holds great significance as it pays homage to the traditional art of terracotta pottery, highlighting the exceptional craftsmanship and creativity of the local artisans. Visitors can immerse themselves in the mesmerizing displays of intricately designed pottery, musical performances, and traditional dances, making it a must-visit event for art enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.
Where: Near the Madanmohana Temple, Vishnupur (Bishnupur), West Bengal
When: 27th December – 31st December
53. Winter Festival – Mount Abu
The Winter Festival in Mount Abu, India, originated as a way to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the region. It is held annually between December and January, and showcases a vibrant blend of traditional music, dance, and handicrafts. The festival holds immense significance as it brings together locals and tourists to experience the beauty of Mount Abu during the winter season, with various cultural performances, adventure sports, and a mesmerizing fireworks display, making it a truly memorable event.
Where: Mount Abu, Rajasthan
When: 29th December – 31st December
This list has already gotten me confused on which ones should be on my very own docket and the uniqueness of each one is quite captivating but nevertheless I will have to choose and hopefully my choices would cover most of it.
So, which ones are on your list?
Think we missed out on something? Tell us about it in the comments below. Or write about it here on Tripoto and earn Tripoto Credits!
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