Important Festivals of India

• GURUNANAK'S BIRTHDAY-The birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism. A visit to the Golden Temple at Amritsar on this auspicious day is given a great emphasis.


• REPUBLIC DAY-The Constitution of the Independent India came into force and the Republic became a legal entity on this day in 1950. In Delhi, celebrations include a magnificent parade of the Armed Forces and performance of folk dances from all over the country.


• HOLI-Marks the end of the spring season and the beginning of the harvesting season. It is an occasion of mass rejoicing marked by sprinkling of colours.


• INDEPENDENCE DAY-The anniversary of unfurling of the Indian tri -colour flag at the Red Fort, ushering in the age of freedom from the British rule in 1947.


• JANMASHTAMI-The birth anniversary of Lord Krishna, celebrated with great enthusiasm all over India, especially at Mathura and Vrindavan, which are closely associated with his childhood.


• MAHASHIVRATRI-The day of Lord Shiva celebrated with fasting, prayers and visits to the temples.


• GANDHI JAYANTI-A grateful nation pays its heart felttributesto the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, on his birthday.


• DUSSHERA-Based on the epic story of Ramayana, signifying the triumph of good over evil, it is celebrated all over the country. In Bengal, it is observedas the Durga Puja.


• DEEPAWALI-The festival of lights-marked by Lakshmi Pujan (worship of the Goddess of wealth).


• CHRISTMAS DAY-The birth anniversary of Lord Jesus Christ.