India is a country that knows how to celebrate.
Whilst it is a melting pot of civilisations, the majority of the country's celebrations are religious in nature - with Hinduism being the dominant religion. These vibrant religious festivals and bustling secular gatherings take place throughout the country - here are some that come highly recommended.
Whilst it is a melting pot of civilisations, the majority of the country's celebrations are religious in nature - with Hinduism being the dominant religion. These vibrant religious festivals and bustling secular gatherings take place throughout the country - here are some that come highly recommended.
India is a country that knows how to celebrate. Whilst it is a melting pot of civilisations, the majority of the country's celebrations are religious in n... more
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1
Diwali
This festival is the most important in India's calendar, marking the start of the Hindu New Year and the victory of good over evil. Celebrated in either October or November (depending on the moon), this nationwide celebration sees families come together to share meals throughout its five day duration.
2
Independence Day
Marking their freedom from the British Empire, this national day of celebration witnesses a day of Indian cultural and patriotic events throughout the country.
3
Onam
This ten day harvest celebration commemorates the return of the mythical King Mahabali. It is the largest festival of the year in the southern state of Kerala, with residents decorating their houses with floral wreaths and holding banquets. The event has taken on a strong culinary flavour in recent decades, with the grand feast served on the main Onam day a particular highlight.
4
Hyderabad International Film Festival
Now five years old, the film festival showcases the best in movies from around the world. With flights to Hyderabad now available from numerous airport hubs, there really is no excuse not to give it a try.
5
Makar Sankranti
Commemorating the transition of the sun into Makar rasi, this January festival marks the point where days begin to grow longer. The event is usually met with four days of partying and gatherings.
6
Madras Music Season
The largest celebration of classical Indian music, this month long series of festivals runs from late December into early January in Chennai. It brings together the finest names the traditional genre has to offer, with Amjad Ali Khan and Rahul Sharma having played it previously.
7
Holi
Welcoming the spring in, this festival is intended to win the Gods favour for the season ahead. The second most important behind Diwali, it brings about a nationwide outpouring of colour and romance.
8
Jaipur Literature Festival
Held annually in Rajasthan, this festival gathers together an array of exciting authors from both India and further afield. Readings and debates take place alongside a program of live music.
9
Kenduli Mela
If you want to experience something a bit more leftfield then try out this festival of Baul mystics. For three nights they gather to sing and celebrate their culture on a flood plain north of Kolkata. Expect religious ecstasy and wild primal chanting.
10
The Great Indian October Fest
Inspired by Germany's very own Oktoberfest, this three day festival has a decidedly Western feel. Music, beer, shopping and gaming are all on offer at this hugely popular event in Bangalore.
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