Chaitra Parva Chhau Festival Chaitra Parva Chhau Festival is celebrated every year before the Maha Visubha Sankranti Day which generally falls on the 13th or 14th of April. The festival is observed by the descendants of Bhuiyan tribe in different parts of Orissa. This is the main festival of Baripada, headquarter of Mayurbhanj district. It is also celebrated grandly in the Koraput, headquarter of Koraput district. The three days long festival is a package of complete entertainment that involves singing, dancing, dance dramas, hunting and splendid feasts. The main attraction of the festival is the local dance, Mayurbhanj Chhau. Legend behind the Parva Chhau Festival Previously, the Chhau dance was performed in the Parva Chhau festival to celebrate the successful harvest during spring time. Since its inception, the festival followed ceremonies related to Saiva (Shiva’s followers) wing of Hindu religion. Maharaja Krushna Chandra Bhanj Deo of Mayurbhanj was a great devotee of Lord Shiva. According to the mythology, Lord Shiva used to pray for betterment of mankind during this time of the year. Maharaja Krushna, to pay tribute to Shiva, started this festival in late 19th century. Customs and traditions of Parva Chhau Festival The festival starts with a religious fervor, which fades away gradually as the focus shifts from the Saiva rituals to the traditional form of art that is Chhau. People of various parts of Orissa worship Lord Shiva and make sacrifices of birds and animals in the beginning of the festival. Mayurbhanj Chhau is then performed in solo or group performances by various well-know troupes during the latter half of the day. Enthusiasts from all over the globe gather in Baripada and Koraput during the festival to get the ethnic flavor of the age old festive traditions. Tourists also take a quick trip of Orissa in the meanwhile through its exotic beaches and historical temples. The dancers worship Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, famous for Tandava and Lasya dance forms respectively, before going for the stage show. What is Mayurbhanj Chhau? Chhau is a traditional folk dance form that is popular in parts of Orissa, Bihar and West Bengal for ages. Mayurbhanj Chhau (Orissa), Purulia Chhau (WB), and Seraikella Chhau (Bihar) are the three major types of Chhau which are named after their birth place. The word Chhau in Advasi language means chhaya (shadow), thus dance form suggests playing with the shadow. This dance form is a concoction of folk dance, classical dance, martial arts and drama. Performers wear vibrant costumes and play mythical characters or historical characters. The major difference between Mayurbhanj Chhau and the other two types of Chhau is that in the latter two the dancers wear huge masks while performing. In Mayurbhanj Chhau facial expression is an essential part of the dance form. Some of the popular shows of Mayurbhanj Chhau are satires targeting the Oriya Paikas (Warriors) of 18th-19th centuries. They also perform on segments from Ramayana and Mahabharata. Mayurbhanj Chhau follows the basic theory of the Bharat Muni’s Natyashastra of Bharat Muni and Nandikeswara’s Abhinaya Darpana. Cultural Importance of Parva Chhau Festival The Chhau dance of Orissa that is mostly performed during the Chaitra Parva festival is immensely famous in other parts of India and abroad. Popularity of the Parva Chhau festival and Mayurbhanj Chhau dance has transcended the national boundaries. Several cultural functions are organized in different communities dispersed in all corners of the world to stage the Chhau dance as a commemoration of the festival. Though the festival has a religious essence attached to it, its strong cultural significance eradicates the differences. Cultural Events Ajanta Ellora Bikaner Deccan Festival India Surf Festival International Yoga Festival Island Tourism Festival Jaipur Literature Festival Jaisalmer Desert Festival Khajuraho Dance Festival Storm Music Festival Sulafest Nashik World Sufi Spirit Festival Navaratri SAARC festival Of Literature Goa Carnival Chaitra Parva Chhau Festival Nauchandi Mela Jaipur Kite Festival Sikkim Tourism Festival Summer Festival Mt Abu Sindhu Darshan Festival Urs Fair Ajmer Elephanta Festival Gangaur Festival Elephant Festival Jaipur Rath Yatra Puri New Year 2019 Activities Around The World Books Countdown Craft Ideas Customs Dresses Drinks Flowers Gifts Holidays Invitation Lyrics Party Recipes Food Trivia Vacation
Ajanta Ellora Festival The Ajanta Ellora Festival is a celebration of music, dance and poetry within the walls of the magnificent caves of Maharashtra. The festival is organized every year between the months of November and March in the city of Aurangabad. The Tourism Development Corporation of the government of Maharashtra invites well known artists from all over the country to take part in the unique event that started only a few years ago in 2002. Legend behind the Ajanta Ellora Festival The venue where the Ajanta Ellora Festival of Maharashtra is held is the legendary Soneri Mahal of Aurangabad. This is a 17thcentury fort (known as ‘Mahal’ in the local language) which was built by a chieftain of the Orchha rulers of Maharashtra. This mahal has been listed by the government authorities of India as one of the architectural wonders of Aurangabad. During the initial years of the festival, a visitor could also enjoy the sights of the historical structure of the Kailash Temple of Ellora. This is because of the fact that the Ajanta Ellora Festival was started inside the premises of the Kailash Temple. Legend has it that they had to be carved by 7000 laborers who worked hard for more than 15 decades to build the monolithic structure of Kailash Temple. The shift of the venue of this Indian festival has also led to a paradigm shift in the type of performances held as part of the festival. Whereas only ancient forms of art were celebrated during the introduction stage, today modern art is also applauded by thousands of visitors who attend the festival to watch the performances. Who can deny the importance of the legendary caves of Ajanta and Ellora which portray the beauty of Indian architecture and heritage. These caves are more than 1400 years old. There are Hindu, Buddhist and Jain praying places constructed within the boundary of the caves. Customs, Traditions and Cultural Importance of the Ajanta Ellora Festival The Ajanta Ellora Festival held every winter in Aurangabad seeks to highlight the rich cultural heritage of India. The festival is held for a period of five days, during which it draws an audience count of 8000 to 10,000 every evening. Besides dance, music and poetry, the festival also celebrates the art & craft and handicrafts of India in the Kalagram. The Kalagram is the ‘craft haat’ of the Ajanta Ellora Festival, where the local artisans showcase their talent while earning money and fame. A handicrafts fair Jatan is held each year to showcase ancient relics and artefacts. The traditional culinary delicacies of Aurangabad are also exhibited at the Ajanta Ellora Festival. Well Known Performers at the Ajanta Ellora Festival Famous personalities have graced the stage of this national festival every year. Some of them are: Gulam Ali – This ghazal singer of Pakistani origin has recorded several hits with the Indian music industry. He belongs to the Patiala Gharana and performs to the thumri and raga styles of classical music. Ustad Amjad Ali Khan – This sarod maestro has popularized performing arts all over the world. He has received awards from international bodies like UNICEF and UNESCO. Hema Malini – This popular Indian actress is also an established classical dancer who enthralls with her steps and beauty. Some other international performers include Ustad Bismillah Khan, Pandit Jasraj and Rasheed Khan. Cultural Events Ajanta Ellora Bikaner Deccan Festival India Surf Festival International Yoga Festival Island Tourism Festival Jaipur Literature Festival Jaisalmer Desert Festival Khajuraho Dance Festival Storm Music Festival Sulafest Nashik World Sufi Spirit Festival Navaratri SAARC festival Of Literature Goa Carnival Chaitra Parva Chhau Festival Nauchandi Mela Jaipur Kite Festival Sikkim Tourism Festival Summer Festival Mt Abu Sindhu Darshan Festival Urs Fair Ajmer Elephanta Festival Gangaur Festival Elephant Festival Jaipur Rath Yatra Puri New Year 2019 Activities Around The World Books Countdown Craft Ideas Customs Dresses Drinks Flowers Gifts Holidays Invitation Lyrics Party Recipes Food Trivia Vacation
Island Tourism Festival, Andaman Located far off from the mainland of India, the residents of Andaman and Nicobar Islands barely had any source of public / social form of entertainment until the later years of the 19th century. Besides the beautiful natural surroundings and tourist spots in capital Port Blair, there was no other opportunity for the islanders to celebrate. It was in the 1980s that the Island Tourism Festival was organized for the first time by the government authorities of Andaman and Nicobar. This festival, initially named the ‘Islands on the March’ was introduced to showcase to the rest of the country the islanders’ talents through various performances with a larger aim to improve economy through tourism. Legends behind the Island Tourism Festival, Andaman According to records in history, it was under the leadership of Tirath Singh Oberoi, the lieutant governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands during the 1980s that the first attempt of the ‘Islands on the March‘ was introduced. This festival started as an exhibition of the culture and heritage of the locals, held every year in the Gymkhana Ground of Port Blair, one of the most historically prominent places of India. Tirath Singh Oberoi took up this annual event as a platform to showcase not only talent but also the achievements of the island with respect to ongoing and future government projects. The Island Tourism Festival of Andaman gives an opportunity to the tribal population of the island to come out of their shelter and perform in front of tourists from India and foreign countries. It gives an opportunity to the tourists to know about the history of these ancient tribes, their practices and the remarkable talents that they possess. This festival of Andaman and Nicobar Island got its present name ‘Island Tourism Festival’ during the rule of Vakkom Purushottaman, the Lt. Governor of the island during the 1990s. There was also a shift of venue of the annual event from the Gymkhana Ground to the Veer Savarkar Airport. It was during this time that performances of not only local artists but also nationally celebrated performers and international troupes were showcased on the Island Tourism Festival stage. Customs, Tradition and Cultural Importance of the Island Tourism Festival The Island Tourism Festival, Andaman is arranged every year by the Andaman and Nicobar Administration for a minimum period of ten days during the winter months of December or January. This festival invites the tourists to watch performances of dance, music, drama and art & craft exhibitions. The rich marine life and the flora & fauna collection of the island are also promoted during the festival. The daytime is reserved for performances of the local tribes of the island. Various competitions such as canoe race and water sports like scuba diving are also arranged by the local government authorities. There are special screenings of puppet, magic and dog shows to attract children. The culinary skills of the locals are exhibited at the lovely floating restaurants of the island. Funding from both the government and private agencies in Andaman and Nicobar has helped to promote the Island tourism Festival in India and abroad. Cultural Events Ajanta Ellora Bikaner Deccan Festival India Surf Festival International Yoga Festival Island Tourism Festival Jaipur Literature Festival Jaisalmer Desert Festival Khajuraho Dance Festival Storm Music Festival Sulafest Nashik World Sufi Spirit Festival Navaratri SAARC festival Of Literature Goa Carnival Chaitra Parva Chhau Festival Nauchandi Mela Jaipur Kite Festival Sikkim Tourism Festival Summer Festival Mt Abu Sindhu Darshan Festival Urs Fair Ajmer Elephanta Festival Gangaur Festival Elephant Festival Jaipur Rath Yatra Puri New Year 2019 Activities Around The World Books Countdown Craft Ideas Customs Dresses Drinks Flowers Gifts Holidays Invitation Lyrics Party Recipes Food Trivia Vacation
Sikkim Tourism Festival A total of three tourism festivals are organized by the government of Sikkim to attract more visitors to the state and celebrate its culture and tradition. The most popular among them is the Lampokhari Tourism Festival or the Sikkim Summer Carnival held at end of March or early April every year. The next most well known celebration is the Heritage and Tourism Festival held every year in the second week of March. Winter is welcomed in Sikkim by inaugurating the Gangtok Food and Culture Festival held in December every year. Here we take a look at the features and celebrations of all three Sikkim Tourism Festivals. Legends behind the Lampokhari Tourism Festival This summer fest has been arranged by the Department of Tourism of Sikkim since 1981. Beginning just at the onset of summer, the celebrations continue for one month in the White Hall of Gangtok. Every section of the Sikkim community is encouraged to take part in the celebrations and entertain the visitors. Customs and Traditions of the Lampokhari Tourism Festival It is customary to time this festival with the celebrations of Ramnavmi of the Hindus. Though cultural performances are staged, the prime attraction of the festival, since its inception, has been adventure sports on the hills and rivers of Sikkim. Horse riding, paragliding, white water rafting and the offbeat yak safari draw crowds in millions. Cultural Importance of Lampokhari Tourism Festival Sikkimese art and craft stalls and flower shows are arranged amidst the breathtaking natural view of the state. A month long food festival selling only traditional Sikkim cuisine prepared by locals is another major attraction of the festival. Legends behind the Heritage and Tourism Festival This festival, also held during summers, is set in a hamlet of West Sikkim called Hee Bermiock. It is organized by the Cultural and Heritage Conservation Society of the tourism development unit of the hamlet. The festival is staged very close to the legendary Khangchendzonga peak. Customs and Traditions of the Heritage and Tourism Festival Visitors can actually go to the houses of locals if in Sikkim during this festival. The government makes arrangements for community songs & dances and lunch & dinner to be held in the houses of the locals so that visitors can get a feel of the local culture. Do not forget to taste the local alcohol. Cultural Importance of Heritage and Tourism Festival The aim of the festival authorities is to give tourists a feel of the Sikkim that existed three decades ago. It was during this time that community song & dance routines were introduced by the field workers of Sikkim who had no other source of entertainment. So this is perhaps the most culturally rich festival of Sikkim. Legends behind the Gangtok Food and Culture Festival This is a winter carnival of Sikkim set by the tourism department of the state government. The celebrations are held at the Titanic Park of MG Marg and in the premises of the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department of Sikkim. Customs and Traditions of the Gangtok Food and Culture Festival It is compulsory for the celebrations to begin with a procession across Gangtok town. The ethnic sets that host the cuisine and cultural programs of Sikkim are a reflection of the rich tradition of this East Himalayan state. Cultural Importance of the Gangtok Food and Culture Festival This winter festival of Sikkim is culturally vibrant because it plays host to not only traditional dance and music performances but also live band performances by youngsters. It also gives tourists the opportunity to experience mouth watering local dishes and the beautiful winter morning sunrise. Cultural Events Ajanta Ellora Bikaner Deccan Festival India Surf Festival International Yoga Festival Island Tourism Festival Jaipur Literature Festival Jaisalmer Desert Festival Khajuraho Dance Festival Storm Music Festival Sulafest Nashik World Sufi Spirit Festival Navaratri SAARC festival Of Literature Goa Carnival Chaitra Parva Chhau Festival Nauchandi Mela Jaipur Kite Festival Sikkim Tourism Festival Summer Festival Mt Abu Sindhu Darshan Festival Urs Fair Ajmer Elephanta Festival Gangaur Festival Elephant Festival Jaipur Rath Yatra Puri New Year 2019 Activities Around The World Books Countdown Craft Ideas Customs Dresses Drinks Flowers Gifts Holidays Invitation Lyrics Party Recipes Food Trivia Vacation
Nauchandi Mela The Nauchandi Mela is an annual celebration held at Meerut in Uttar Pradesh. The mela is organized by the municipal corporation of Meerut. It is a one month long carnival starting from the second Sunday after the festival of Holi to promote the artistry and religious rituals followed in rustic Uttar Pradesh. The mela hosts more than 50,000 visitors every year. Legend behind the Nauchandi Mela The Nauchandi Mela was first held in 1672 AD as a one day long commercial celebration for cattle traders. A major change in the festival was introduced in 1857 during the Sepoy Mutiny when Indian leader Nana Sahib used the festival platform to garner support from the Indian masses in his fight against the British. Prior to that, the Nauchandi Mela ground was also used by the British East India Company for stallion exhibition and collection of revenues through the sale of these animals. Today, the festival celebrates the art and culture of UP. Another section of people in Uttar Pradesh believe in a second legend which says that Mandodari, wife of Ravana, was born in Meerut. A devotee of Mandodari erected a temple dedicated to her in the city premises. It was from this year that the Nauchandi Mela came to be hosted. Cultural Importance of Nauchandi Mela The Nauchandi Mela is generally held in the month of March every year. Every evening, a cultural program is arranged by the local municipal authorities. Song and dance rituals continue till the early hours of the morning. The music competitions, equipped with modern orchestra and fireworks display, highlight the local talent. Nautankis or melodramas performed by local and visiting theater companies are a major crowd puller at the mela. The municipality of Meerut has taken upon itself the duty of promoting rural women’s rights by organizing beauty contests and conferences on topics of female importance at the mela venue. Customs and Traditions of Nauchandi Mela The Nauchandi Mela is still used as a major trading point for residents of Meerut and neighboring UP cities, villages and towns. They erect shops and stalls to sell domestic animals, utensils and food. The mela serves as the perfect excuse for visit by tourists who are food enthusiasts. Sarson ka saag, pachak ki goli, local varieties of paan, and golgoppas are food items that you must not miss if you are at the Nauchandi Mela. Colorful stalls promote the handicraft of Uttar Pradesh. From chikan work of Lucknow, to footwear of Agra, leather products of Kanpur and brassware of Moradabad, the showpieces will leave you enthralled. Also worth purchasing are bangles of Ferozabad, kohl of Bareilly, bed sheets of Panipat and china clay products of Khurja. Circus shows, toy stores and boating sites in the mela ground make sure that even the children can enjoy on a visit to the Nauchandi Mela. Most importantly, the Nauchandi Mela is organized to establish communal harmony between the Muslims and Hindus of Uttar Pradesh. The festival grounds are located close to the Bala Mian dargah and the Nauchandi temple; both sites are a must visit for tourists at the festival. Cultural Events Ajanta Ellora Bikaner Deccan Festival India Surf Festival International Yoga Festival Island Tourism Festival Jaipur Literature Festival Jaisalmer Desert Festival Khajuraho Dance Festival Storm Music Festival Sulafest Nashik World Sufi Spirit Festival Navaratri SAARC festival Of Literature Goa Carnival Chaitra Parva Chhau Festival Nauchandi Mela Jaipur Kite Festival Sikkim Tourism Festival Summer Festival Mt Abu Sindhu Darshan Festival Urs Fair Ajmer Elephanta Festival Gangaur Festival Elephant Festival Jaipur Rath Yatra Puri New Year 2019 Activities Around The World Books Countdown Craft Ideas Customs Dresses Drinks Flowers Gifts Holidays Invitation Lyrics Party Recipes Food Trivia Vacation
SulaFest, Nashik The SulaFest held in the city of Nashik in India is a one-of-a-kind annual celebration of wine, music, leisure and pure delight. It is held in the first week of February. So if you are a wine lover and want to spend a couple of days relaxing in the lap of nature in the company of good music, pay a visit to the SulaFest of Nashik. Legend of SulaFest, Nashik SulaFest is organized every year at the Sula Vineyards of Nashik. This is the country’s best, most famous and most easily accessible winery. It was opened in 1997 as a very small local shop but has grown in size over the passing years. Today it is an internationally famous festival where locals, national tourists and international visitors flock for wine tasting and a tour inside the Sula Vineyards. SulaFest is considered one of the most inspirational festivals of India because the standard it sets as a winery. Covering a 35 acre area, it is easily accessible from Mumbai. In fact, people can directly travel from Mumbai on the festival day. The Indian Railways arranges special trains operating between Mumbai and Nashik for the festival. The MSRTC (Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation) operates special buses for visitors attending the festival. Tourists can also use the A/C car services of eCabs starting from Mumbai in the morning and reaching Nashik by early afternoon. Cultural Events Ajanta Ellora Bikaner Deccan Festival India Surf Festival International Yoga Festival Island Tourism Festival Jaipur Literature Festival Jaisalmer Desert Festival Khajuraho Dance Festival Storm Music Festival Sulafest Nashik World Sufi Spirit Festival Navaratri SAARC festival Of Literature Goa Carnival Chaitra Parva Chhau Festival Nauchandi Mela Jaipur Kite Festival Sikkim Tourism Festival Summer Festival Mt Abu Sindhu Darshan Festival Urs Fair Ajmer Elephanta Festival Gangaur Festival Elephant Festival Jaipur Rath Yatra Puri New Year 2019 Activities Around The World Books Countdown Craft Ideas Customs Dresses Drinks Flowers Gifts Holidays Invitation Lyrics Party Recipes Food Trivia Vacation Customs, Traditions and Cultural Importance of SulaFest, Nashik SulaFest was originally a one day event when it was organized for the first time five years back. 2012 was the first year when the celebrations continued for two days following the sell-out event of the previous years. The celebrations begin in the early afternoon and continue sometimes even past 10 at night. Using the Greek style amphitheatre an open air stage is created for the bands and individual performers at the Sula Vineyards. Grape stomping, tattooing and foot massages are other fun activities conducted for the attendees in the festival. Also do not miss the photo corner, the tarot card readers and the food stalls serving local Marathi delicacies. The organizers of the SulaFest promote this festival as not only a must visit for wine lovers but also a treat for people who enjoy music. Different forms of music from rock to blues, electronic and reggae to folk are performed during the event. If you are a shopaholic, you can visit SulaFest Bazaar, which is a flea market within the boundaries of the Sula Vineyards. Here you will find handicrafts on display for sale. Art enthusiasts can take a look at the photo exhibition and the art installations on display at the photo gallery. There is also the Mount Gay Rum bar that sells non-alcoholic drinks like the mojito. SulaFest thus offers a little for every patron. Performers at the SulaFest, Nashik Listed below are some of the popular names from the world of music who have performed on the SulaFest stage: Nitin Sawhney Rodney Branigan DJ Sasha Drum Circle Reggae Rajahs featuring Steppa Style and Cali P Papon and The East India Company Su La Take and Etienne Mbappe Ankur and The Ghalat Family Nigel Rajaratnam and Ayush Shrestha Soulmate
Events and Fairs in India Festivals in India have always been about celebrating our cultural ethnicity, paying tribute to nature as we enjoy our vibrant diversity that makes India so special. So while most fairs and festivals have been linked to a particular deity, the celebration spreads across the length and breadth of this country. 1. Pushkar Ka Mela – The Pushkar festival infuses life into the deserts of Rajasthan. Traditionally a place for trading live stock and camels, this annual event exhibits the vibrant culture of Rajasthan. Held every November in the holy town of Pushkar, the festival sees an influx of tourists, not so much to trade in cattle but more so to watch the ancient trade fair. The best part is the camel race, meant to check the agility and strength of this desert animal. Other attractions include horse dance, bridal contests and even a longest moustache contest…. So head there to get a flavour of the rich past, where magical lamps seem so real. 2. Dusshera –Dusshera falls between September and October months. Famously known as 'Vijayadashmi, it is the time when little toddlers take their first step into writing. The main attraction is the 'Ramlila' a public staging of the epic Ramayana which starts a number of days before, so that the killing of Ravana takes place at this very day. The best place to be in is Mysore; where the city comes alive in large floats and brightly lit colours adorning the magnificent Mysore palace. 3. Diditara, diditarat, dithi, thaka thai thai tho…. Rhythmic humming by row men marks the beginning of the famed snake boat race along Kerala’s picturesque waters. It exemplifies the uniqueness of Onam. Come August-September, Onam pays reverence to the famed mythological King Mahabali. Legend has it that the King, known for his fairness comes to visit the state for ten days every year. Onam is a celebration of this visit, when the people exhibit their joy and happiness. Among many attractions the largest crowd puller is the famed snake boat race. It is the best time to visit Kerala – to see the state come alive in music, dance, elephant processions, street plays, grand elephants and of course the unique boat race. 4. DIWALI –Diwali or Deepawali as it is known is a festival of lights – a symbolic representation of the victory of good over evil. Diwali usually falls in the end of October to early November. This time is marked with new beginnings and a Lakshmi Puja. People buy new clothes, gift each other sweets and chocolates; while the nights come alive in the garland of lamps and fire crackers. Visit Delhi it see its full splendor or head to Jaipur where the five-day festival is marked in colourful displays in the local market. 5. CHRISTMAS – The jolly Santa spreading good will marks the beginning of a week-long of fun culminating into the New Year. Sure it may not match to the snowy winters found in the west, but Christmas here is not limited to Catholics alone. So you have the beautifully adorned Churches, local carols and hay cribs. And if that is not enough, head into the homes, where little Santas dance around in bright colours amidst happy families’ hyming jolly old songs. In places like Goa and the north eastern states the streets are decorated in bright lights as hotels and restaurants dress up to the Christmassy mood… 6. Kite Festival – What a sight it would be to look up the sky…into a maze of Kites? During Makar Sankranti the skies of Ahmedabad in Gujarat is set ablaze with a riot of kite -birds… At the International Kite Festival people from across the world show-off their kite making skills. Held usually on the 14th of January; it marks the beginning of the summer season. 7. GANESH CHATURTI – Popularized during the pre-Independence era to bring all Indians together, Ganesh Chaturti still holds the crown of being one of India’s most celebrated events. It falls in July / August every year. Large idols of Lord Ganesha depicting various scenes from mythological era to modern day events adorn cities like Mumbai, in midst of dances, prayers and the mouth watering modhaks. Homes across Western India have smaller idols of the same god. On the final day the idols are left into the river with hope of a good year ahead. 8. Goa Carnival –As unique as this tiny coastal state, the Goa Carnival is a street festival of parades, large caricatures as little children, young girls and traditional tribes come together to display their art. Large floats parade the street along with giant drums and impromptu charades. The festival introduced by King Momo marks the beginning of Lent period of penance and sacrifice. Carnival falls usually in February. 9. HOLI – A festival of colour, Holi is a time when the whole nations erupts in joy, throw colours at each other and revel in making a mess… Usually celebrated in March, people pray to God for good harvests. But what makes Holi unique, is the vibrating beating of the drums, drunken dances, and uncanny joy. People play card games, make merry and participate in other traditional games often looked down upon. Places like Varanasi offer a traditional Holi, and don’t miss the bhang – a unique intoxicating drink so much a part of the Holi. 10. Brahmaputra Beach Festival –Unique in culture and its ethnicity, north eastern part of India have some interesting festivities. The Brahmaputra Beach Festival in Assam is one such unique event. Held in January or February each year, the 2-day event combines culture with adventure. So we have traditional dances like Bihu, food crafts and cultural exhibitions, blended beautifully with sports such as paragliding, boat cruises, rafting, beach volleyball and canoeing. Unique in its approach and sacred in its thought festivals in India symbolise the victory of good over evil. Truly it is the best way to relax and rejuvenate; both body and soul… Cultural Events Ajanta Ellora Bikaner Deccan Festival India Surf Festival International Yoga Festival Island Tourism Festival Jaipur Literature Festival Jaisalmer Desert Festival Khajuraho Dance Festival Storm Music Festival Sulafest Nashik World Sufi Spirit Festival Navaratri SAARC festival Of Literature Goa Carnival Chaitra Parva Chhau Festival Nauchandi Mela Jaipur Kite Festival Sikkim Tourism Festival Summer Festival Mt Abu Sindhu Darshan Festival Urs Fair Ajmer Elephanta Festival Gangaur Festival Elephant Festival Jaipur Rath Yatra Puri New Year 2019 Activities Around The World Books Countdown Craft Ideas Customs Dresses Drinks Flowers Gifts Holidays Invitation Lyrics Party Recipes Food Trivia Vacation