Fair & Festivals
Festival of Colors HOLI
When the vibrant colors of the rainbow grace the earth, we know that Holi has arrived. This festival of colors is the pinnacle of all celebrations in India, symbolizing the arrival of spring and bidding farewell to the bone-chilling winters in certain parts of North India. Celebrated during the Phalgun month of the Hindu calendar (February-March), the delightful weather sets the perfect stage for joyous and carefree festivities. Holi is eagerly anticipated by children, youth, and even the elders in every household, as it brings immense happiness and joy to every heart, as immortalized by Bollywood.
This vibrant festival is celebrated throughout the country with great enthusiasm, each region adding its own unique touch. In Punjab, it is known as Holla Mohalla, where the ancient martial arts of the Sikhs are showcased. Along the coastline of Goa, Shigmo is celebrated, breaking ethnic and cultural boundaries through processions that exhibit traditional instruments and cultural activities. Holi truly becomes a mesmerizing display of India's kaleidoscopic cultural heritage.
Festival of Lights DIWALI
Deepavali or Diwali is an Indian festival of lights. ‘Deepa’ means lamp or light and‘Vali’ means string or row, and Deepavali means rows of lights, symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. This autumn celebration, which lasts for five days, marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year. The date of celebrating Diwali is based on the movement of the moon and falls on different date every year. For Hindus, Diwali is one of the most important festivals of the year and is celebrated in families by performing traditional activities together in their homes. It is one of the biggest festivals of India. Diwali is an official holiday in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Mauritius, Malaysia, Singapore and Fiji. Diwali celebrates the return of Lord Rama, along with Sita and Lakshmana, from his 14-year-long exile after defeating the demon-king Ravana.
Kala Ghoda Art Festival
The Kala Ghoda Festival is an annual arts and culture festival that takes place in Mumbai. It is one of the most eagerly anticipated events in the city and draws attendees from all over the country and beyond. The festival showcases a wide range of artistic disciplines, including visual arts, music, dance, theater, and literature.
Festival takes place in the Kala Ghoda area of South Mumbai. The area is known for its heritage buildings, and art and cultural spaces, such as museums, art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and educational institutions. “The precinct attracts food connoisseurs, fashion designers, and architecture enthusiasts among a host of creative talent.
Pushkar Fair
Pushkar Fair - also known as the Pushkar Camel Fair or Pushkar Mela, is a renowned annual event held in the town of Pushkar between October and November. This weeklong fair is not only one of the largest camel fairs in the world but has also gained significant popularity as a tourist attraction.
In addition to the trading of livestock, the fair offers a range of captivating competitions that draw in thousands of visitors. These include the thrilling 'matka phod' (pot-breaking) competition, the prestigious 'longest moustache' contest, and the enchanting 'bridal competition'. These unique events add an element of excitement and cultural richness to the fair, making it a must-visit for tourists from all over the globe.
Konark Dance Festival - Odisha
The Konark Dance Festival (KDF) is a prestigious event held annually from December 1st to 5th in the enchanting sands of Konark. Set against the magnificent backdrop of the Sun Temple, this festival marks the beginning of the Sun's movement, symbolizing the end of winter. It serves as a captivating platform to showcase India's finest traditional and classical dance styles, offering a truly immersive experience into the country's rich cultural and dance heritage.
While primarily a dance festival, the KDF also incorporates various other cultural elements such as music, drama, and mythology. Attendees can indulge in souvenir shopping and sample delectable delicacies at the charming stalls erected around the temple.
Adding to the allure of the festivities, the International Sand Art Festival takes place simultaneously at Chandrabhaga Beach in Konark. This remarkable event attracts a large number of tourists who flock to witness the awe-inspiring sand sculptures created by talented artists from around the world.
Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of Konark and experience the magic of the Konark Dance Festival and the International Sand Art Festival.
Modhera Dance Festival - Gujarat
The Sun Temple of Modhera, with its intricately carved architecture, is a sight to behold. During the dark and breezy nights of January, the temple is bathed in psychedelic hues of red, yellow, and green lights, creating a mesmerizing Chiaroscuro effect that transports visitors through time and space.
This magnificent temple is a true masterpiece of the Golden Age of the Solanki Empire. It stands as a testament to the glory and splendor of that era. Every year, the temple hosts the Modhera Dance Festival, a grand celebration of art, music, dance, and culture. Known as the Uttarardh Mahotsav or Modhera Utsav, this festival is renowned throughout the country.
As you explore the festival grounds, you will find numerous stalls offering a variety of shopping opportunities. From traditional handicrafts to local delicacies, there is something for everyone. The area surrounding the temple is also adorned with captivating sand art exhibitions, adding an extra layer of visual delight to the festivities.
The Modhera Dance Festival holds a special significance as it marks the end of the harsh winter and the beginning of the Sun's movement towards the north. It is a joyous celebration of the changing seasons and a time for renewal and rejuvenation.
The Sonepur Mela
Often referred to as the "Mother of all Animal Fairs," the grand Sonepur Mela (Fair) is a vibrant rural fair that takes place every year at the confluence of the Ganges and Gandak rivers. It also marks the beginning of the holy period of Kartik Purnima (Full Moon Night). The Mela usually starts in November and lasts for a month, making it the largest cattle fair in Asia and possibly the world.
With a rich history and mythology, the fair traces its origins back to the reign of India's first Emperor, Chandragupta Maurya, who used to purchase elephants and horses from here for his army.
The bustling fair is a spectacle to behold, filled with street magicians, spiritual gurus, snack stalls, local handicrafts, amusement rides, circus performers, and a vast array of animals such as elephants, horses, cattle, and goats available for sale. The fair attracts a sea of people, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere.
As you navigate through the bustling crowds, you'll be immersed in a world where history and mythology intertwine. Feel the echoes of Chandragupta Maurya's reign as you witness the age-old tradition of buying and selling animals for military purposes.