India is a country that knows how to celebrate, and when it comes to festivals, there’s no place quite like it. Every corner of the country bursts into color, music, traditions, and joy during its many festivals. If you’re curious about what makes these celebrations so special or if you’re planning a trip to India and want to experience them yourself, this guide will walk you through some of the most famous festivals that truly capture the spirit of India. So, let’s have a look at some of the most famous festivals of this land of diversity.
Diwali
Also known as the festival of lights, Diwali is arguably the biggest festival in India celebrating the victory of good over evil. But every region has a different story associated with it – In North India, it celebrates Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana, while in other regions, it marks the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura or the birth of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
This five-day festival starts with Dhanteras, followed up with Roop Chaudas, Deepawali, Govardhan Pooja, and Bhai Dooj. During this time, you’d find every nook and corner lit up with the glow of countless oil lamps, houses decorated with beautiful rangolis, fireworks lighting up the sky, and a sweet fragrance filling up the air. It’s a magical time to be in India, and you’ll feel like you’re part of something truly special.
Celebration Time: Between Mid-October to November
Holi
If you’re looking for pure, unfiltered fun in India, Holi is the festival for you. It’s celebrated in the spring, and it’s all about welcoming the new season with joy and laughter. During this time, you’ll see everyone covered in vibrant colors from head to toe, while laughing and dancing and enjoying gujiyas (sweet dumplings).
But Holi isn’t just about playing with colors—it also has a deeper meaning. The festival marks the victory of good over evil, symbolized by the burning of Holika, a demoness. The night before Holi, huge bonfires are lit to celebrate this victory. The next day, everyone comes together to throw colors, share sweets, and spread happiness.
It’s a day when all the social barriers disappear, and everyone just joins along for a great time. If you ever get the chance to experience Holi, don’t miss it—it’s an experience you’ll never forget!
Celebration Time: March
Janmashtami
Janmashtami marks the birth of Lord Krishna, one of the most beloved Hindu deities. It’s a festival filled with devotion, music, and dance. On this day, temples are beautifully decorated with lights and flowers. Most people fast and stay up late, waiting for the stroke of midnight when Lord Krishna is believed to have been born.
One of the most fun traditions of Janmashtami, especially in Maharashtra, is “Dahi Handi.” It’s where groups of people form human pyramids to try and break a pot filled with yogurt, just like young Krishna used to do with his friends. But the best place to experience the real fun of Janmashtami is Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Here you can attend special event, held to celebrate the birth of little Nand Gopal. The vibe of Mathura during Janmashtami is nothing short of magical.
Celebration Time: Between August to September
Bihu
Bihu is the most important festival in northeastern India, especially Assam. It is actually celebrated three times a year, but the most famous is Rongali Bihu, which marks the Assamese New Year and the arrival of spring. It’s a time when the whole state comes alive with traditional music, dance, and feasting.
During Rongali Bihu, people wear new clothes, visit friends and family, and enjoy delicious Assamese dishes. The festival is all about celebrating nature, community, and the start of a new year. It’s a time of great joy, and if you ever find yourself in Assam during Bihu, you’ll get to experience the rich culture of this beautiful state up close.
Celebration Time: April
Navratri and Dussehra
Navratri (translating to nine nights) is a festival that’s all about the worship of Goddess Durga and her nine forms. During this time, people come together to fast, pray, and dance, channeling the energy of Maa Durga. In Gujarat, for example, the nights are filled with the sound of Garba and Dandiya, traditional folk dances that are as much a part of the celebration as the religious rituals.
After the nine powerful days, the festival culminates in Dussehra, which marks the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana. In many parts of India, huge effigies of Ravana are burned to symbolize the triumph of good over evil. Dussehra serves as a powerful reminder that in the end, good always wins. It’s a festival that’s both spiritual and fun and is probably one of the best times to be in India.
Celebration Time: Between September to October
Onam
Onam is the biggest festival in Kerala which marks the celebration of the harvest season. Its a ten-day festival packed with traditional music, dance, and some of the most amazing food you’ll ever taste. People decorate their homes with beautiful flower arrangements called Pookalam, but the highlight of the festival is the grand feast known as Onasadya, where you get to try a variety of delicious vegetarian dishes served on a banana leaf.
One of the most exciting parts of Onam is the boat races, where long, narrow boats called Vallam Kali race through the backwaters of Kerala, drawing huge crowds of spectators. Onam is a time that brings families and communities closer through the unique culture and traditions of Kerala.
Celebration Time: August or September
Eid-Ul-Fitr
Eid-Ul-Fitr is one of the most important festivals for Muslims, and in India, it’s celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm. The festival marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. On Eid, everyone dresses in their best clothes, heads to the mosque for prayers, and then enjoys sewaiyan, a special sweet dish prepared using vermicelli and milk, topped with a whole lot of dry fruits.
Eid is truly a time of giving and sharing, and it’s common to exchange gifts and donate to those in need. The festival is all about gratitude, kindness, and coming together as a community. It’s a beautiful celebration that brings people together in a spirit of peace and joy, and it’s a wonderful time to experience the warmth and hospitality that India is known for.
Celebration Time: Between May to June
Ganesh Chaturthi
Ganesh Chaturthi is one of the most vibrant festivals in India, especially in Maharashtra. It’s dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of wisdom and prosperity. During this festival, beautifully crafted idols of Ganesha are installed in homes and public spaces, and for ten days, people worship Ganesha with prayers, songs, and offerings.
On the final day, the idols are taken out in grand processions and immersed in water, symbolizing Ganesha’s return to his celestial home. The festival is a time of joy, devotion, and communities coming together as one. If you’re in India during Ganesh Chaturthi, make sure to join in the celebrations—it’s an experience like no other.
Celebration Time: Between August End to September
Mahashivratri
Mahashivratri is a festival that celebrates the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati in the sacred bond of marriage. It’s a day (and night) of fasting, prayer, and meditation. On this day, temples dedicated to Shiva are beautifully decorated, and devotees stay up all night chanting prayers and hymns in honor of the lord.
Mahashivratri is said to be a very auspicious day, and it’s believed that worshipping Shiva on this night brings peace and prosperity. The festival is a deeply spiritual time, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with the rich spiritual traditions of India.
Celebration Time: Between February end to March
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Pongal
Pongal is a four-day harvest festival celebrated majorly in Tamil Nadu. This festival is named after the traditional dish “Pongal,” made from freshly harvested rice, milk, and jaggery.
Each day of the festival has its own significance, and the celebrations include decorating cows, drawing beautiful kolam designs, and preparing special meals. Pongal is a time to give thanks for a bountiful harvest and is a festival that’s deeply rooted in the agricultural traditions of Tamil Nadu. It’s a warm, family-oriented celebration that really showcases the deep connection between people and the land.
Celebration Time: January
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Takeaway
India’s festivals are as diverse as its people, and each one offers a unique experience that reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re throwing colors during Holi, lighting lamps on Diwali, or sharing a meal on Eid, you’ll find yourself moved up in the festive spirit that makes India so special. So, when you plan your next trip to India, try to time it with one of these amazing festivals—you’ll get to see the country at its most vibrant and joyful.
