India, the name conjures up the images of colourful, energetic and cultural festivals and events in our mind. The bustling country’s overwhelming blend of landscapes and heritage stirs with wonderful festivals, art exhibitions and distinctive form of creative expression. From New Delhi to Goa and Kerala to Mumbai, here’s a list of some major upcoming festivals and events you should not miss. Take a look!
Temple Festivals in Kerala
Besides many blissful locations and scenic beauty, Kerala, a state in South India features a large number of Hindu temples – and most of them celebrate delightful festivals every year. These temple festivals run from February to May and are typically rejoiced with splendid line up of caparisoned elephants, bull or divine characters, massive effigies of horse, traditional art forms, captivating percussion orchestra and magnificent display of fireworks. Pooram, Bharani, Arattu, Vela and Utsavam are few of such festivals. Utsavam is almost here and will take place from 6th January 2018 to 12th January 2018. Come and experience the spirit of God’s Own Country through the bliss of rhythms and dazzling performances.
Surajkund International Craftsmela
A two-week handicraft fair in the Lakewood city of Surajkund, Surajkund International Craftsmela is one of the largest craft exhibitions in the world. It is celebrated as a big festival in Haryana and held annually in the month of February. Every year, a million of tourists and locals come and be a part of this exclusive exhibition to witness the best of traditional art and talent that exist in India. This year, the event is scheduled from 2nd to 18th February and again all set to amaze visitors with the richness of diverse handlooms, handicrafts and masterpieces, and many performing arts and ethnic cuisines.
India Art Festival
India Art Festival is a four-day contemporary art fair that is hosted annually in February in Mumbai and in November in New Delhi. The Mumbai edition of IAF will be held from 15th February to 18th February, 2018 at Nehru Centre, Mumbai. This is one of the best art fairs in India in which major and mid-level art galleries showcase contemporary art with independent artists. The artwork displayed in the event includes sculptures, paintings and digital art by over 400 artists. The event is attended by many leading experts that highlight the significance of art development and innovations through panel discussions and various workshops.
Goa Carnival
Introduced by Portuguese, Goa Carnival is the most awaited three-day festival of Goa that takes place before the Easter Sunday. Every year, many tourists from all across the globe choose to visit the state and celebrate this Christian festival with great enthusiasm and pomp. During this event, one will witness high tone music bands, mask dances, street plays on historic themes, colossal parades, grand feasts, delicious food and much more. Most of the carnival celebrations take place around Margao, Panjim and Vasco da Gama – and this year, the carnival is scheduled from 10th to 13th February.
Holi – the festival of colours
Holi is a popular traditional festival in India that celebrates the victory of good over evil as well as the beginning of the spring season, marking the end of winter. This religious festival starts in the evening of the Full Moon Day with bonfire celebrations and continues on the following day with the spread of colours in the air. The best of this festival’s delight and fun can be experienced in the cities of Mathura and Vrindavana where Lord Krishna spent his childhood. The celebrations over there continue for about 7 to 16 days with several rituals and traditions, and present a lifetime of colourful experience for the visitors.