Utsava
Hindu Festivals
The sacred calendar of Bharat, from the lights of Diwali to the great night of Shiva — what each festival means and how it is kept.
Diwali
The festival of lights, celebrating the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.
Honours Lakshmi →MarchHoli
The festival of colours, welcoming spring and the triumph of devotion over arrogance.
Honours Krishna →February–MarchMaha Shivaratri
The great night of Shiva, observed with fasting, vigil, and devotion.
Honours Shiva →September–OctoberNavaratri
Nine nights honouring the Divine Mother in her many forms.
Honours Durga →March–AprilRam Navami
The birth of Bhagavan Sri Rama, ideal of dharma.
Honours Rama →August–SeptemberKrishna Janmashtami
The midnight birth of Krishna, celebrated with devotion and joy.
Honours Krishna →August–SeptemberGanesh Chaturthi
Welcoming Ganesha, remover of obstacles, into homes and public pandals.
Honours Ganesha →JanuaryMakar Sankranti
The sun's northward turn, marked by harvest and gratitude.
Honours Surya →September–OctoberDussehra
The day of victory, when good triumphs over evil.
Honours Durga →JulyGuru Purnima
A day of gratitude to teachers and the sage Vyasa.
Honours Vishnu →AugustRaksha Bandhan
A celebration of the bond of protection between siblings.
Honours Vishnu →March–AprilHanuman Jayanti
The birth of Hanuman, embodiment of devotion and strength.
Honours Hanuman →