Festivals
A tourist cannot miss India, a country rich in experiences extending from the historical to the adventurous, steeped in culture and history, and full of natural beauty. From exquisite architectural beauties to lush natural forests and local encounters, India has more to offer than the average visitor could think.
Ganesh Visarjan
The elephant-headed God Ganesh represents increased luck for Hindus in India. Each year, a ten-day festival is conducted to honour the Lord. It concludes on a 'Visarjan' day, when huge and little clay idols are brought on floats and immersed in water. The event is particularly prominent in Maharashtra, although it is also observed throughout South India. Music, dance, enormous feasts, and sweets are all part of the veneration that Ganesha inspires, as large improvised tented venues (pandals) pop up for people to gather and pay their respects.
Kumbh Mela
The Hindu festival of Kumbh Mela, which includes a bathing rite on the banks of sacred rivers that flow through four different cities: Allahabad, Ujjain, Haridwar, and Nasik, is said to be the largest gathering of humanity. People from all walks of life gather to pay their respects to this arterial waterway. However, the highlight remains the sea of sadhus (holy men) who gather here for the holy bath. Dressed in almost to nothing, with bodies coated with ash and hair jumbled in dreadlocks, they have a distinct appearance that recalls Lord Shiva. This festival offers numerous photo opportunities.
Hornbill Festival
The Hornbill festival, named after the state's emblematic bird, is a unique event that brings together 16 tribes from the northeastern state of Nagaland. Every year, between the 1st and 7th of December, the celebration brings together a variety of tribal traditions in one location. This includes dances, music, local cuisine, and the tribals' bright clothing. A vast audience surrounds a spacious amphitheatre, as dance and music troupes take the stage one after the other. The festival provides an insight into their culture.
Durga Puja Festival
The vibrant Hindu celebration honouring the Goddess Shakti and her numerous manifestations is best observed in the eastern state of West Bengal. While the festival is only one week long, the construction of the tented venues (pandals) begins a month in advance. During that week, clusters of pandals become the focal point of all local contact. The focus is on a big Goddess statue, and the decorations are themed, with contemporary and traditional styles competing. Dance, music, cuisine, and the women's traditional red and white saris combine for a breathtaking show.
Diwali
Diwali, the festival of lights, is one of India's most well-known festivals, and it is celebrated throughout the country. In October or November, expect to see entire cities lit up with candles, oil lamps, and strings of lights, as well as fireworks in the night sky. People dressed in elegant attire pay visits to one another, frequently bringing gifts of fruit, sweets, and well wishes. The day is associated with a mythology about Lord Rama, but it also represents the triumph of good over evil. Diwali and the days leading up to it are an excellent time to visit India.
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