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List of Indian Festivals 2024, State-wise and Season-wise

India is renowned for its vibrant cultural heritage, and its festivals reflect the rich tapestry of traditions and celebrations that span across the country. In 2024, the Indian festival calendar promises a plethora of events that showcase diverse cultural practices, seasonal changes, and regional specialties. This comprehensive guide provides a detailed list of Indian festivals, categorized both state-wise and season-wise, to help you plan your celebrations and cultural explorations throughout the year.

List of Indian Festivals in 2024

India, often referred to as the “Land of Festivals,” is a country known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions. The year 2024 brings with it a vibrant tapestry of celebrations, each state embracing its unique festivals that reflect its history, beliefs, and customs. From the colors of Holi to the lights of Diwali, the beats of Durga Puja to the serenity of Pongal, let’s explore the important Indian festivals state-wise in this colourful journey of unity in diversity.

List of Indian Festivals State-wise

Focusing on state-wise festivals, we find a delightful array of events that highlight the unique cultural heritage of various regions across India. These celebrations are deeply rooted in the history and traditions of specific states, showcasing their distinctive flavors and customs. From the exuberant dance of Bihu in Assam to the awe-inspiring processions of Durga Puja in West Bengal, these state-specific festivals create a vibrant mosaic of India’s cultural landscape. Each state boasts its own treasure trove of festivals that unite communities, express religious devotion, and celebrate the spirit of togetherness. Check the List of Indian Festivals State-wise below in the table:

List of Indian Festivals State-wise
State Festivals
Andhra Pradesh Pitr-Paksha- Mahalaya Amavasya, Noopuraraavam, All India Industrial Exhibition (Numaish), Bhishma Ekadasi, Deccan Festival, Telugu New Year, Ugadi (Gudi Padwa), Sri Rama Navami Festival, Vinayaka Chaturthi, Durga Festival, Nagula Chavithi.
Assam Magh or Bhogali Bihu, Dehing Patkai Festival, Elephant Festival, Pragjyothi International Dance Festival, Bohag Bihu, Bihu.
Andaman and Nicobar Island Tourism Festival, Swami Vivekananda Jayanti
Arunachal Pradesh Boori Boot – Nyishi, Hill Miris Festival, Losar – Monpa Festival, Tamladu – Idu-Mishmi tribe, Oriah – Wancho tribe, Ali-Aye Ligang – Mishing tribe, Nyokum – Nishi Festival, Mopin – Adi Festival, Pongtu – Tutsa tribe, Sanken – Khampti and Singhpo tribe, Moh or Mol – Tangsa tribe, Dree – Apatani Festival, Solung – Adi Festival, Chalo Loku – Nocte tribe.
Bihar Chhath Puja, Rajgir Dance Festival, Sonepur Cattle Fair.
Daman and Diu National Tribal art & Food Festival, Monsoon Magic Festival, Heritage Festival, Nariyela Poornima.
Dadra and Nagar Haveli Holika Dahan
Delhi Delhi Book Fair, Taj Mahotsav, Garden Tourism Festival, Mango Festival.
Gujarat  Kutch Festival / Kutch Rann Utsav, Paragliding Festival, Saptak Music Festival, Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, Uttarayan Kite Festival, Modhera Dance Festival(Uttarardh Mahotsav), Vad Fest, Global Bird Watchers Conference, Bhavnath Fair, Great Indian Heritage Fest, Dangs Darbar, Kavant Fair, Chaitra Navratri, Chitra Vichitra Fair, Mango Festival, Monsoon Festival, Tarnetar Fair (Temple of Shiva or Trinetreshwar), Bhadrapada Purnima (Ambaji), Beach Festival, Shamlaji Fair, Vautha Fair.
Goa  Sunburn Festival, Zatra at Cansaulin, Goa Carnival, Feast of Sacred Heart of Jesus, Sao Joao, Feast of Assumption of our Lady, Feast of Three Kings, Gokulashtami, Chovoth, Ladainha or Ladin, Feast of St Francis Xavier, Feast of Immaculate Conception, Goa Liberation Day.
Haryana  Surajkund Craft Mela, Guru Ravidas’s Birthday, Shaheedi Diwas of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru & Sukhedev, Baisakhi Festival, Maharana Pratap Jayanthi, Sant Kabir Jayanthi, Haryana Heroes Martyrdom Day, Maharaja Agrasen Jayanti, Haryana Day, Shaheed Udham Singh’s Birthday.
Himachal Pradesh Losar, Himachal Day, Rakhadumni – Rakhi.
Jammu and Kashmir  Leh Sindhu Darshan, Kashmir Lavender Festival, 33rd Kalachakra, Guru Tse-Chu, Vikram Samvat, Wanchuk, Galdan Namchot, Lohri, Spitok Gustor Zanskar, Spituk Gustor, Basant Panchmi, Dosmochey Festival, Yargon Tungshak, Guru Tse-Chu, Stok Guru Tsechu, Matho Nagrang, Nagrang, Shab-e-Miraj, Yuru Kabgyat, Hemis Festival, Shachukul Gustor, Zanskar Karsha Gustor, Phyang Tsedup, Korzok Gustor, Dak-Thok Tse-Chu, Sakti Tse-Chu, Naszal, Ladakh Festival, Navratri, Thiksay Gustor,Chemrey Angchok, Galdan Namchot, Losar (New Year)
Karnataka Makar Sankramana, Pattadakal Dance Festival, Gudi Padva or Ugadi, Naga Panchami
Kerala Religious Festivals: Arthunkal Perunnal, Sabarimala Makaravilakku, Kanjiramattom Nercha, Thaipooyam, Thaipooya Mahotsavam, Machattu Mamangam, Adoor Gajamela, Kuttikkol Thampuratty Theyyam, Uthralikavu Pooram, Chettikulangara Bharani, Guruvayoor Utsavam, Attukal Pongala, Parippally Gajamela, Thirunakkara Arattu, Attuvela Mahotsavam, Kodungalloor Bharani, Malanada Kettukazhcha, Arattupuzha Pooram, Nenmara Vallangi Vela, Kottiyoor Utsavam, Vallarpadam Thirunal, Sree Narayana Guru Samadhi, Sree Narayana Guru Jayanthi, Perumthitta Tharavad Kottamkuzhy, Feast at Manarcad, Feast at Edathua Church, Feast Malayattoor Church, Mannarasala Ayilyam

Cultural and Art Festivals: Swathi Sangeethotsavam, Nishagandhi Festival, Ernakulathappan Utsavam, Pattambi Nercha, Maramon Convention, Pariyanampetta Pooram, Chittur Kongan Pada, Chinakkathoor Pooram, Soorya Music Festival, Soorya Dance Festival, Chembai Sangeetholsavam, Kochi Biennale

Traditional Celebrations: Onam, Vishu. Thrissur Pooram. Nehru Trophy Boat Race. Champakulam Boat Race, Aranmula Boat Race, Payippad Boat Race, Neelamperoor Padayani, Thripunithura Athachamayam, Vallarpadam Thirunal, Kalpathi Ratholsavam, Vaikathashtami Festival. Cochin Carnival

Special Personal Celebrations: Amrithanandamayi Birthday

Madhya Pradesh Khajuraho Dance Festival, Tejaji Fair.
Maharashtra Ganesh Chaturthi, Nag Panchami, Kalidas Festival, Chikoo Utsav, Bird fest.
Meghalaya Bob Dylan Festival, Ahaia Festival.
Manipur Chavang Kut.
Mizoram Chapchar Kut.
Nagaland Hornbill Festival, Moatsu Festival.
Odisha  Savitri Amavasya, Mukteswar Dance Festival, Sattila Ekadasi, Rajarani Music Festival, Bhaimi Ekadasi, Magha Purnima, Puri Beach Festival, Kumbha Sankranti, Pankoddhar Ekadasi, Konark Dance Festival, Phagu Dasami, Papanasini Ekadasi, Dola Purnima, Meena Sankranti, Papamochani Ekadasi, Chaitra Amavasya, Rama Navami, Kamada Ekadasi, Pana Sankranti, Baruthini Ekadasi, Chandan Yatra, Akshaya Tritiya, Mohini Ekadasi, Jala Krida Ekadasi, Brusha Sankranti, Sudasha Brata, Raja Sankranti, Rath Yatra, Bada Ekadasi, Bahuda Yatra, Singha Sankranti, Khudurukuni Osha, Gamha Purnima, Bali Trutiya, Kanya Sankranti, Rushi Panchami, Saraswati Puja, Garbhana Sankranti, Mahastami, Kumarotstaba Purnima, Kartik Purnima, Bichha Sankranti, Awala Navami, Konark Festival, International Sand Art Festival, Prathamastami, Manabasa – Gurubar Osha, Dhanu Sankranti
Punjab  Muktsar Fair, Lohri, Pracheen Kala Kendra Nritya and Sangeet Sammelan, Baisakhi, Guru Parab- Guru Nanak’s Birthday
Puducherry International Yoga Festival.
Rajasthan  Bikaner Camel Festival, Jaipur Literature Festival, Nagaur Fair/Ramdeoji cattle fair, Beneshwar Fair, Desert Festival, Braj Festival, Shekhawati Festival, Jambheshwar Fair, Elephant Festival, Gangaur Festival, Mewar Spring Festival, Rajasthan Day Celebration, Mahaveerji Fair, Jodhpur Flamenco and Gypsy Festival (JFG), Summer Festival, Urs Fair, Teej Festival, Kajli Teej Festival, Kota Dussehra, Marwar Festival, Galiyakot Urs, Pushkar Camel Fair, Kolayat Fair (Kapil Muni Fair), Chandrabhaga Fair, Matasya Festival, Bundi Utsav, Winter Festival
Sikkim  Saga Dawa, Drupka Tseshi, Lakshmi Puja, Lhabab Duechen, Kagyat Dance, Losoong Sikkimese, Maghe Sankranti Sanhamole, Losar Tibetan, International Flower Festival, Guru Rimpoche’s Birthday, Pang Lhabsol
Tamil Nadu Kambam Festival, Chennai Dance Festival (December Season), Chennai Music Festival (December Season), Arudra Darisanam / Thiruvathirai, Thyagaraja Aradhana, Bhogi Pongal, Surya Pongal, Mattu Pongal, Jallikattu Festival, Thiruvalluvar day, India International Leather Fair, Thaipusam, Natyanjali Festival, Tamil New Year, Velankanni Church Festival, Mamallapuram Dance Festival
Tripura Rabindra / Nazrul Jayanthi, Kharchi Puja, Ker Puja, Diwali Festival
Uttaranchal  Magh Mela, Uttarayani Mela, International Yoga Week
Uttar Pradesh  Ayurveda Jhansi Mahotsav, Kailash Fair, Ayudha Puja, Nag Nathaiya, Deva Mela Ramayan Mela Ayodhya, Kumbh Mela, Magh Mela, Dhrupad Mela, Lathmar Holi, Sheetala Ashtami, Sankat Mochan Music Festival, Ganga Dussehras, Sri Krishna Janmashtami, Ram Leela, Matki Leela, Ganga Mahotsav, Dev Deepavali
West Bengal  Kenduli Mela, Gangasagar Mela, Dover Lane Music Conference, Birthday of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, Vasant Panchami, Birthday of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, Bengali Nava Barsha, Rabindra Jayanti, Durga Puja, Nandikar National Theatre Festival, Vishnupur (Bishnupur Festival)

List of Indian Festivals Season-specific

India’s landscape is adorned with diverse harvest festivals, each a unique tribute to nature’s gifts. From Makar Sankranti’s kite-filled skies in the North to Pongal’s vibrant feasts in the South, these celebrations reflect regional diversity and gratitude for nature’s bounty. Bihu and Nabanna in the East, and Gudi Padwa in the West, evoke rituals deeply intertwined with the land. These festivals unite communities in joyful appreciation, bridging ancient traditions with modern times, and resonating with the rhythm of seasons. Rooted in agrarian heritage, they highlight India’s cultural tapestry while honouring the cycles of planting, growth, and harvest.

Here’s the list of season-specific harvest festivals in India organized by region and month:-

List of Indian Festivals Season-specific
Region Festival Month
North India Makar Sankranti January
Baisakhi April
Ladakh harvest festival September
Lohri January
Basant Panchami January
South India Onam August
Pongal January
Ugadi March
Vishu April
East & West India Bhogali Bihu January
Wangala November
Ka Pomblang Nongkrem November
Nuakhai August
Gudi Padwa March
Nabanna November-December

Specifications of Indian Festivals

  • Diverse Calendar: India boasts a plethora of festivals, with over 30 major festivals celebrated across various religions and cultures.
  • Cultural Mosaic: Festivals offer a glimpse into India’s cultural diversity, showcasing a blend of traditions, rituals, and art forms.
  • Religious Harmony: Many festivals, such as Diwali and Eid, are celebrated by people of different faiths, promoting religious harmony and unity.
  • Lunar Influence: Several Indian festivals are based on the lunar calendar, resulting in shifting dates each year, adding an element of anticipation.
  • Colors and Decorations: Festivals like Holi and Diwali are famous for their vibrant colors, rangolis (decorative patterns), and illuminated homes.
  • Culinary Delights: Festivals are synonymous with delicious traditional foods. Sweets like ladoos and jalebis are integral to celebrations.
  • Community Bonding: Festivals strengthen social bonds, fostering a sense of community and shared joy among neighbors, friends, and families.
  • Inclusive Spirit: India’s festivals often transcend age and social barriers, inviting participation from people of all backgrounds and ages.
  • Symbolism and Mythology: Many festivals are rooted in mythology, celebrating significant events from religious texts or historical narratives.
  • Music and Dance: Festivals showcase a rich tapestry of music and dance, from classical performances to folk art forms.
  • Cultural Extravaganza: Events like Kumbh Mela attract millions, making them some of the largest human gatherings on the planet.
  • Economic Impact: Festivals drive economic activities, boosting tourism, local markets, and the handicrafts industry.
  • Environmental Concerns: Some festivals, like Diwali, have raised environmental concerns due to excessive fireworks and pollution.
  • Charitable Giving: Festivals often involve acts of charity and giving, reinforcing values of compassion and empathy.
  • Traditional Attire: Festivals are occasions to adorn traditional clothing like sarees, dhotis, and ethnic garments, fostering a sense of identity.
  • Global Influence: Festivals like Holi have gained international recognition, with people around the world participating in the vibrant celebrations.
  • Cultural Revival: Festivals contribute to the preservation of indigenous cultures, languages, and rituals.

India’s festivals are a kaleidoscope of emotions, traditions, and shared experiences, making them an integral part of the country’s identity.

Read about: International Youth Day

List of Indian Festivals UPSC

In the vibrant tapestry of India’s festivals, unity in diversity is beautifully showcased. These celebrations, rooted in history and tradition, exemplify the country’s rich cultural heritage. From the dazzling lights of Diwali to the rhythmic beats of Bihu, each state’s unique festivities contribute to a harmonious mosaic of customs and beliefs. India’s festivals not only bind communities together but also transcend boundaries, inviting participation from all walks of life. As they bridge ancient rituals with modern times, these celebrations reflect the nation’s deep-rooted values, making them an integral and cherished part of India’s identity, fostering harmony, and celebrating life’s diverse facets.

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List of Indian Festivals FAQs

What are some of the most well-known festivals celebrated in India?

India celebrates a wide range of festivals, including Diwali, Holi, Eid, Navaratri, Christmas, Makar Sankranti, Raksha Bandhan, Ganesh Chaturthi, and many more.

When does Diwali, the Festival of Lights, typically occur in India?

Diwali usually falls in October or November, depending on the lunar calendar. It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.

What is the significance of Holi, the Festival of Colors, in Indian culture?

Holi marks the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. It's celebrated with vibrant colored powders, water balloons, and bonfires.

How is Eid celebrated in India by the Muslim community?

Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are the two major Eid celebrations in India. Muslims offer prayers, exchange gifts, and share festive meals with family and friends.

What are the main traditions associated with Navaratri and Durga Puja in different parts of India?

Navaratri is a nine-night festival dedicated to Goddess Durga. In some regions, it involves traditional dances like Garba and Dandiya. Durga Puja is a prominent Bengali festival where elaborately crafted idols of Goddess Durga are worshipped.

Could you provide information about the cultural and religious importance of Christmas in India?

Christmas is celebrated by Christians across India. It holds religious significance commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ and is also observed with festive decorations, carol singing, and gift-giving.

What makes Makar Sankranti a unique harvest festival celebrated across various Indian states?

Makar Sankranti marks the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn. It's celebrated with kite flying, bonfires, and special food items like sesame sweets.

How is Raksha Bandhan observed, and what is its cultural significance in India?

Raksha Bandhan is a festival celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters tie a protective thread (rakhi) around their brothers' wrists, and in return, brothers give gifts and promise protection.

Tell me about the different regional variations in celebrating Pongal/Makara Sankranti in India.

Pongal is a Tamil harvest festival celebrated with traditional dishes and decorations. In other parts of India, Makar Sankranti is observed with kite flying and special foods.

What is the history behind the colorful and lively celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi in Maharashtra and other states?

Ganesh Chaturthi honors the birth of Lord Ganesha. Elaborate idols of Ganesha are worshipped in homes and public pandals, and the festival concludes with immersion processions.

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