HOLI

Time : February/ March
Place : Across India

In March, during spring, comes Holi- the festival of colours. Celebrated all over North India, Holi is a time to make merry. People smear each other with coloured powder. Singing and dancing add to the gaiety of the occasion

In Anandpur Sahib, Sikhs celebrate a special festival Hola Mohalla on the day after Holi. The display of ancient martial arts and mock battles, are part of this unique Sikh festival. The Holi celebrations in Mathura and the small towns of Braj Bhoomi - the land of Sri Krishna, are spectacular. The Rang Gulal Festival is celebrated for over a week with exuberant processions, songs and music. Especially famous is the Lathmaar Holi of Barsana and Nandgaon.

DIWALI

Time : October / November
Place : Nation wide

This festival of lights is the prettiest and the most eagerly awaited occasion in India. It celebrates the return of Lord Rama, the hero of the epic Ramayana, to Ayodhya after a fourteen year exile.During this time, he defeats the demon, Ravana. The festival commemorates the return of Rama to his kingdom and the victory of good over evil. This "festival of lights" also represents the defeat of the darkness of ignorance by the light of knowledge. The flickering lights of the traditional clay lamps or 'diyas' illuminate the houses and fireworks resound through the night.

The goddess of wealth and prosperity - Lakshmi, is worshipped on this day. Houses are white washed and elaborate designs drawn at the thresholds to welcome the goddess. The exchanging of gifts and sweets among friends and relatives and playing of games of chance at night, are all an integral part of the celebrations.

DUSSEHRA

Time : October
Place : All over India

Celebrated to mark the defeat of Ravana by Lord Rama, Dussehra symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. The Ramlila - an enactment of the life of Lord Rama, is held during the nine days preceding Dussehra. On the tenth day, larger than life effigies of Ravana, his son and brother - Meghnath and Kumbhakama, are set alight.

In West Bengal, puja pandals have beautifully decorated images of the goddess Durga and people gather here in large numbers to enjoy the festivities.

In South India, houses are decorated with displays of toys and clay images of gods. Relatives and friends visit each other to exchange greetings.

In Gujarat, the exuberant Navaratri celebrations include dancing the lively garba and dandiya ras.

In Himachal Pradesh, a week-long fair in the hill town of Kullu, is a part of the Dussehra celebrations. From the little temples in the hills, deities are brought in procession to the 'maidan' in Kullu, to pay homage to the reigning deity, Raghunathji.

Mysore - the city of palaces, celebrates the ten day Dussehra in a royal style. The Mysore Palace is illuminated with a myriad lights. Majestic processions, a torch light parade and dance and musical events enliven the tranquil city.

RAKSHABANDHAN

Time : August
Place : Northern and western India

Brothers and sisters reaffirm their bonds of affection on this day. Sisters tie colourful threads or rakhis on their brothers' wrists. The brothers in turn promise to protect their sisters and give them gifts.

The festival celebrates the sacred bond between brothers and sisters.Raksha Bandhan has become a sacred festival for sisters and brothers.

CHRISTMAS

Time : December
Place : Nation wide

Christmas is celebrated in India with great fervour. All the major Indian cities wear a festive look. Shops and bazaars are decorated for the occasion and offer attractive bargains. Carol singing, get-togethers and the exchanging of gifts enhance the Christmas spirit. Christmas parties launch off celebrations for the New Year, thus retaining the festive mood for at least a week.