Hinduism Festivals

Pradosh Vrat is observed in the twilight period (Pradosh Kala — 90 minutes after sunset) of the 13th lunar day. Legend holds that on this day, Shiva performed the Tandava dance in the light of the waxing and waning moon, surrounded by all the gods. Witnessing this dance and worshipping Shiva during Pradosh grants liberation from all sins. Soma Pradosh (Monday Trayodashi) and Shani Pradosh (Saturday Trayodashi) are especially significant.

Trayodashi (13th lunar day) of both Shukla and Krishna Paksha — twice monthly

Sakat Chauth is observed by many families, especially mothers, with Ganesha puja and fasting until moonrise. The vrat katha and offering of til preparations are common in North India.

Magha Krishna Chaturthi / Sankashti Chaturthi

Lohri marks the end of the winter solstice period and is associated with the harvest of the rabi (winter) crop, particularly sugarcane and sesame. Bonfires are lit at crossroads and in courtyards at sunset. The legend of Dulla Bhatti — a folk hero who rescued girls from being sold as slaves during Akbar's time — is central to Lohri songs. It is especially significant for newly-weds and families with newborn children.

Night before Makar Sankranti — January 13

Sun begins uttarayana (northward course) — considered most auspicious time (Bhishma chose it for his death in Mahabharata). Symbolic transition from darkness to light.

January 14 / 15 (sun's transit into Capricorn — Makara rashi)

Makar Vilakku is the culminating event of the Sabarimala pilgrimage season. On the night of Makar Sankranti, a divine star (Makara Jyoti) is said to appear on the distant hill of Ponnambalamedu, visible from the Sabarimala temple. This is believed to be the celestial visitation of Lord Ayyappa himself. Millions of pilgrims who have completed the 41-day vritha (austere preparation) climb the sacred 18 steps to the temple. The Makara Vilakku (sacred lamp) is lit at the temple as the star appears. Ayyappa is the son of Shiva and Vishnu (Mohini).

Makar Sankranti night (January 14) — when Makara Jyoti appears on Ponnambalamedu hill

Pongal is Tamil Nadu's most important harvest festival, a four-day thanksgiving to the sun for a successful harvest. 'Pongal' means 'to boil over' — symbolic of abundance overflowing. The four days are Bhogi (burning old things), Thai Pongal (cooking new rice with milk until it boils over as an offering to Surya), Mattu Pongal (honouring cattle), and Kaanum Pongal (family reunion). The festival predates many of Tamil Nadu's Hindu religious traditions and has distinct agricultural roots.

Sun enters Capricorn (Makara Sankranti) — January 14–17

Mauni Amavasya is traditionally associated with Magha snan, ancestor offerings, and periods of silence. Many devotees bathe at sacred rivers and spend the day in japa, charity, and reflection.

Magha Amavasya

Beginning of spring (vasant); Saraswati's birthday. Saraswati emerged from Brahma's mouth to bestow speech and music on the universe.

Magha shukla panchami (January-February)

Rath Saptami celebrates the sun turning his chariot northward — the symbolic beginning of the sun's ascent toward its full power in summer. According to mythology, on this day Kashyapa Prajapati placed the infant Surya on a chariot drawn by seven horses (representing the seven colors of light / seven days of the week). The day marks Surya's full power. Tirumala (Tirupati) in Andhra Pradesh has its most significant Rath Saptami festival with the Brahmotsavam chariot procession. Bathing in a sacred river or lake on this day is considered meritorious.

Shukla Saptami of Magha (January/February)

According to the Mahabharata, Bhishma chose the auspicious Uttarayana period for his departure. Devotees remember his teachings, offer water, and pray for clarity in dharma.

Magha Shukla Ashtami

Kumbh Sankranti is the monthly solar transition into Aquarius. Devotees may bathe early, offer arghya to Surya, and give charity in the punya kala.

Sun enters Kumbha rashi

(1) The night Shiva performed the Tandava — cosmic dance of creation-preservation-dissolution; (2) The night Shiva married Parvati; (3) The night Shiva drank the halahala poison from samudra-manthan and Parvati held his throat (Nilakantha story).

Magha (or Phalguna) krishna chaturdashi — the night before amavasya (February-March)

Surya Grahan observance in Hindu panchang practice focuses on eclipse visibility, sutak considerations, mantra japa, bathing, and charity after the eclipse.

Solar eclipse date and visibility depend on astronomy and location

Chandra Grahan observance in Hindu panchang practice focuses on eclipse visibility, sutak considerations, mantra japa, bathing, and charity after the eclipse.

Lunar eclipse date and visibility depend on astronomy and location

Holika, sister of Hiranyakashipu, attempted to burn young Prahlada (devoted to Vishnu) while sitting in fire. Holika herself was burned because the boon of fire-immunity worked only when alone. Prahlada, protected by his bhakti, emerged unharmed. Krishna's color-play with the gopis at Vrindavan is the second layer.

Phalguna Purnima (March)

Holi Phagwa is an important Suriname observance connected with color, spring renewal, joy, Hindu heritage.

Observed according to the Hindu lunar calendar; listed in 2026 on March 3.

Phagwah is an important Guyana observance connected with spring renewal, color, devotion, community joy, and Indo-Guyanese heritage.

Guyana 2026 holiday calendars list Phagwah on March 3.

Sheetala Mata is the goddess who both causes and cures diseases like smallpox, chickenpox, and measles. Her name means 'the cool one' — she cools the burning fevers of disease. On Sheetala Ashtami (also called Basoda), no fire is lit for cooking — all food eaten on this day was prepared the night before and is offered cold (hence 'basoda' from 'bas' meaning stale/left overnight). This is the only festival where stale food is considered sacred. The goddess rides a donkey, carries a broom and waterpot, and is considered both fierce and benevolent.

Krishna Ashtami of Chaitra (March/April) — 8 days after Holi

Meena Sankranti is the monthly solar transition into Pisces. It is commonly observed through early bathing, Surya arghya, mantra japa, and dana.

Sun enters Meena rashi

Chaitra Navratri honours the nine forms of Durga across nine days. It overlaps with regional new-year observances such as Gudi Padwa and Ugadi, and culminates near Rama Navami in many calendars.

Chaitra Shukla Pratipada to Navami

(1) Brahma created the universe on this day; (2) Matsya saved Manu and the Vedas; (3) Rama returned to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana; (4) Shalivahana defeated the Shakas (start of Shalivahana Shaka era). New year for many regions.

Chaitra shukla pratipada (March-April)

Gangaur is Rajasthan's most beloved festival — a celebration of marital bliss and the love between Gauri (Parvati, shortened to Gour/Gaur) and Isar (Shiva). Women make clay images of the divine couple and worship them for 18 days. Married women pray for the long life of their husbands; unmarried girls pray for a devoted husband like Isar. The festival begins on the day after Holi. The Jaipur Gangaur procession — with caparisoned elephants, folk dancers, and a palanquin carrying Gauri — is among Rajasthan's most spectacular parades.

Starting Chaitra Shukla Tritiya (3rd day of bright Chaitra) to Chaitra Purnima — 18 days

In Gangaur regions, Gauri is worshipped as Parvati with Isar-Shiva. Women offer flowers, mehndi, songs, and prayers for family wellbeing and marital harmony.

Chaitra Shukla Tritiya in Gangaur-related traditions

Yamuna Chhath celebrates Yamuna Devi. In Vraja and riverbank communities, devotees offer lamps and flowers, remember Krishna's lilas on the Yamuna, and pray for purification.

Chaitra Shukla Shashthi

Birth of Sri Rama, the seventh avatar of Vishnu, to King Dasharatha of Ayodhya and Queen Kausalya, at noon (madhyahna) on Chaitra shukla navami. Climax of nine days of Chaitra Navratri.

Chaitra shukla navami (March-April)

Swaminarayan Jayanti commemorates the birth of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. Mandirs mark the day with abhishek, kirtan, scriptural readings, processions, and community seva.

Chaitra Shukla Navami

Birth of Hanuman, son of Anjana and Vayu, with Shiva's amsa, at Anjaneri (Maharashtra) or Hampi (Karnataka) per regional tradition.

Chaitra Purnima (March-April) — most common; some traditions observe Kartik krishna chaturdashi; Tamil Hanuman Jayanthi in Margashirsha

Baisakhi marks the solar New Year and the beginning of the harvest season in Punjab and northern India. Hindu communities celebrate it as a harvest festival with thanksgiving to the sun. The Ganga Sagar fair at Haridwar on the same day draws millions of pilgrims.

Sun enters Aries (Mesha Sankranti) — April 13 or 14

Bohag Bihu (also called Rangali Bihu — the colourful Bihu) is Assam's most joyous festival marking the spring harvest and the Assamese New Year. The seven days each have a name: Goru Bihu (cattle), Manuh Bihu (humans), Gosai Bihu (ancestors and deities), Kutum Bihu (visiting relatives), Senehi Bihu (friendship), Mela Bihu (fair), and Chera Bihu (concluding). Bihu dances — with vigorous footwork and graceful hand movements — and Bihu songs (husori) performed by young people are the cultural heart of the festival.

Starts April 14 (Assamese New Year) — 7 days

The Sun's entry into Aries is treated as a major solar transition. It overlaps with several regional Hindu new year and harvest observances.

Sun enters Mesha rashi

Puthandu (meaning 'new year') is the Tamil solar new year marking the sun's transit into Aries (Chithirai month). The night before, families arrange a kani — an auspicious display of items including mango, jackfruit, bananas, gold, silver, and a mirror — so the first thing one sees on the new year morning is this auspicious sight. The tradition holds that what one first sees on New Year's Day will determine the nature of the year ahead.

Sun enters Aries (Mesha Rashi) — April 14

Vishu is Kerala's astronomical new year and one of its most important festivals. The Vishukkani is the central tradition — an elaborate display arranged in a bell-metal vessel (uruli) containing a Krishna idol, golden yellow flowers (kani konna), rice, coconuts, vegetables, gold, and a mirror. Family members are led to see this auspicious sight with closed eyes as the first vision of the new year. The kani konna (cassia fistula) tree blooms specifically for Vishu, its golden flowers being synonymous with the festival. Vishukaineetam — elders giving money to children — is another beloved tradition.

Sun enters Aries — April 14–15 (Vishukkani day)

(1) Treta Yuga began this day; (2) Parashurama's birth; (3) Veda Vyasa began composing the Mahabharata; (4) Krishna gifted Sudama with eternal wealth; (5) Ganga descended; (6) Pandavas received the Akshaya Patra (inexhaustible vessel) from Surya.

Vaishakha shukla tritiya (April-May)

Parashurama, one of Vishnu's avatars, is remembered as a fierce protector of dharma and a master of austerity. His jayanti commonly coincides with Akshaya Tritiya.

Vaisakha Shukla Tritiya

Ganga Saptami, also called Jahnu Saptami, remembers the sacred manifestation and reverence of Ganga Devi. Devotees worship the river, offer lamps, and perform charity.

Vaisakha Shukla Saptami

Sita Navami marks the birth of Sita (Janaki) — she was found by King Janaka while ploughing the earth, hence called 'Ayanija' (earth-born) or 'Bhumija'. The earth herself is Sita's mother. Sita is revered as the ideal of wifely devotion, courage, and purity — she followed Rama into forest exile and endured captivity in Lanka. Her story in the Ramayana is the archetype of feminine strength and virtue. On this day women fast and pray for marital bliss in the image of Sita.

Shukla Navami of Vaisakha (April/May)

When Hiranyakashipu challenged Prahlada's devotion, Vishnu appeared as Narasimha, neither man nor animal, and protected the devotee while upholding dharma.

Vaisakha Shukla Chaturdashi

Devarshi Narada appears across Puranic and Itihasa narratives as a messenger, sage, musician, and devotee of Vishnu. The jayanti is marked by bhajan, kirtan, and scriptural reflection.

Jyeshtha Krishna Pratipada, commonly the day after Vaishakha Purnima

Vrishabha Sankranti is the Sun's monthly transition into Taurus. Devotees may perform Surya arghya, mantra japa, and dana.

Sun enters Vrishabha rashi

Shani Dev is revered as a strict but just graha connected with karma and discipline. Devotees worship Shani to cultivate humility, endurance, and righteous conduct.

Jyeshtha Amavasya

Story from the Mahabharata Vana Parva: Savitri, princess of Madra, married Satyavan despite knowing he would die in one year. When Yama came for him, Savitri followed and won three boons through her wit and devotion. With the third, she requested 'sons by Satyavan' — forcing Yama to return Satyavan to life.

Jyeshtha Amavasya in north India; Jyeshtha Purnima in south India (May-June)

The festival remembers King Bhagiratha's tapas and the descent of Ganga to earth, with Shiva receiving her force in his matted locks before she flowed for the liberation of the ancestors.

Jyeshtha Shukla Dashami

Padmini Ekadashi is the rare shukla paksha Ekadashi of Adhika Masa, the intercalary lunar month also known as Purushottama Masa. The traditional katha tells of Queen Padmini, wife of King Kritavirya, who observed this vrat with deep devotion to Lord Vishnu after receiving guidance from Anasuya. Through the merit of the vow she was blessed with the heroic son Kartavirya Arjuna. Because it appears only when an extra lunar month is inserted, devotees treat it as a special opportunity for Vishnu bhakti, purification, and sankalpa.

Shukla Ekadashi of Adhika Masa / Purushottama Masa (intercalary lunar month; occurs once every 32-33 months)

Mithuna Sankranti is the Sun's monthly transition into Gemini. It is observed with early bathing, Surya arghya, mantra japa, and charity.

Sun enters Mithuna rashi

Nirjala Ekadashi is the most austere of all Ekadashis — it is observed without water (nirjala = waterless) throughout the entire day and night. The legend involves Bhima (of the Pandavas) who could not observe any Ekadashi fast due to his enormous appetite. Sage Vyasa told him that observing just this one Nirjala Ekadashi with complete abstinence from water earns the merit of all 24 Ekadashis. It falls in the hottest month of summer, making the waterless fast an extreme test of devotion.

Shukla Ekadashi of Jyeshtha (May/June)

Vat Purnima is the Maharashtra-Gujarat version of the pan-Indian Vat Savitri vrat (which North India observes on Jyeshtha Amavasya). Savitri's husband Satyavan died, and Yama came to take his soul. Savitri followed Yama for three days, refusing to leave her husband. Her devotion and arguments for dharma ultimately moved Yama, who returned Satyavan's life. Married women fast and tie threads around the banyan tree (vata vriksha), praying for their husband's longevity. The Purnima version is observed in western India while the Amavasya version is pan-Indian.

Jyeshtha Purnima (May/June) — or Jyeshtha Amavasya in some regions

Rath Yatra 2026 is listed for July 16, 2026, when Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra come out of the Puri Jagannath Temple in three great wooden chariots and travel to the Gundicha Temple. For devotees, the day is powerful because the Lord leaves the sanctum and comes onto the street, allowing everyone to take darshan. The three chariots - Nandighosha for Jagannath, Taladhwaja for Balabhadra, and Darpadalana for Subhadra - move along the Bada Danda as devotees chant 'Jai Jagannath' and pull the ropes. The festival is public, emotional, and deeply Vaishnava: the Lord of the Universe becomes accessible to the whole world.

Shukla Dwitiya of Ashadha (June/July)

Shravan is Shiva's sacred month — the month when Shiva drank the Halahala (cosmic poison) that emerged from the ocean churning, saving the world. As a result, Shiva's throat turned blue. The Ganga flows through Shiva's matted hair, and the monsoon rains of Shravan are thus directly connected to Shiva. Monday (Somvar) is Shiva's weekday. Fasting on Shravan Mondays and offering water (jal abhishek) to the Shivalinga is one of the most widely observed practices. The Kanwar Yatra — carrying Ganga water from Haridwar to local Shiva temples — happens during Shravan.

Every Monday of the Shravan month (July–August) — 4 or 5 Mondays

Dev Shayani Ekadashi marks the day Vishnu goes to sleep on the cosmic serpent Ananta in the milk ocean, beginning his four-month Chaturmas. During these four months, religious ceremonies are limited. In Maharashtra, this day marks the Ashadhi Wari — the great pilgrimage of the Varkari saints to Pandharpur. Millions walk hundreds of kilometres to reach Pandharpur and have darshan of Lord Vitthal (a form of Vishnu-Krishna). The Varkari tradition begun by Sant Dnyaneshwar and later Sant Tukaram makes this one of Maharashtra's most significant spiritual events.

Shukla Ekadashi of Ashadha (June/July)

Sacred day for honoring Veda Vyasa (Krishna Dvaipayana), compiler of the Vedas and author traditionally associated with the Mahabharata, Brahma Sutras, and Puranic corpus. Hindu lineages use the day to honor the guru-parampara and renew commitment to study and sadhana.

Ashadha Purnima (June-July)

Hariyali Teej celebrates the reunion of Parvati with Shiva after her 108 births of penance to be accepted as Shiva's wife. It falls at the onset of the monsoon when the earth turns green (hariyali = greenery). Married women fast and pray for the long life of their husbands. Swings are hung from trees; women dress in green, sing teej songs, and enjoy the monsoon weather. Young unmarried girls pray for a good husband like Shiva.

Shukla Tritiya of Shravan (July/August)

Nag Panchami is dedicated to the worship of serpents — naga devas — who are considered sacred guardians in Hindu tradition. Snakes are associated with Shiva (who wears serpents), Vishnu (who reclines on Ananta), and Ganesha (who wears a snake as a belt). The festival honours the five principal serpent deities: Ananta, Vasuki, Takshaka, Karkotaka, and Pingala. On this day it is believed that serpents do not cause harm. The story of Astika saving the serpents from Janamejaya's snake sacrifice (in Mahabharata) is central.

Shukla Panchami of Shravan (July/August)

Onam celebrates the annual homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali, a benevolent asura king who ruled Kerala in a golden age of equality and prosperity. Lord Vishnu, in the Vamana avatar, subdued Mahabali and sent him to the netherworld — but granted him the boon of returning to see his people once a year. The ten-day festival is Kerala's most important festival, combining harvest thanksgiving with the joy of the king's visit. Pookalam (floral carpets), Onasadya (26-course feast), and Vallamkali (snake boat races) are central traditions.

Thiruvonam nakshatra in the Malayalam month of Chingam (August/September)

Multiple origins: (1) Yamuna's rakhi to brother Yama, granting him immortality; (2) Indrani tying a sacred thread to Indra in his battle with the asuras; (3) Krishna's promise to Draupadi after she tore her sari to bandage his injured finger; (4) Rani Karnavati's rakhi to Humayun seeking protection.

Shravan Purnima (July-August)

Kajari Teej is the third Teej festival (after Hariyali and Hartalika) and is associated with the monsoon rains. 'Kajari' refers to the dark rain clouds of the season. Women sing Kajari songs — melancholic, longing folk songs about separation from beloved ones — which is associated with Parvati's longing for Shiva. The festival is particularly popular in Bundelkhand, Varanasi, and the Braj region. It is more of a folk celebration than a religious fast — characterized by swings, songs, and the beauty of the monsoon season.

Krishna Tritiya of Bhadrapada (August)

Krishna's birth at midnight in Mathura's prison to Devaki and Vasudeva, while the asura king Kamsa held them captive. Vasudeva carried the infant across the flooded Yamuna to Gokul, exchanging him with Yashoda's daughter (Yogamaya). Heralded the eventual destruction of Kamsa.

Bhadrapada krishna ashtami (August-September); midnight observance

Multiple stories: (1) Parvati created Ganesha from sandalwood paste; Shiva beheaded him in conflict, then restored him with an elephant's head; (2) Vyasa dictated the Mahabharata to Ganesha as scribe; (3) Ganesha is the first to be worshipped in any puja by Shiva's command.

Bhadrapada shukla chaturthi (August-September); 10-day festival ending on Anant Chaturdashi

Hartalika Teej takes its name from harta (abduction) and aalika (friend) — Parvati's friend abducted her to the forest to prevent her forced marriage to Vishnu (arranged by her father Himavat), so that she could continue her penance for Shiva. This day commemorates Parvati's ultimate attainment of Shiva as her husband. Unlike Hariyali Teej, this is a stricter fast — nirjala (no water, no food), maintained even through sleeplessness. Parvati-Shiva idols made of sand or clay are worshipped and immersed the next day.

Shukla Tritiya of Bhadrapada (August/September)

Vishwakarma is the divine craftsman and architect of the gods — the builder of Lanka for Ravana, the celestial city of Dwaraka for Krishna, and the divine weapons of the gods. On Vishwakarma Puja day, all tools, machines, vehicles, and instruments of craft are cleaned, decorated, and worshipped. Workers in factories, offices, garages, workshops, and homes pay homage to their tools as extensions of the divine craftsman. The festival celebrates the sanctity of work and craft.

September 17 (solar calendar — when sun enters Virgo/Kanya) or last day of Bhadrapada

Anant Chaturdashi has dual significance. First, it is the day of Anant Vrat — the worship of Vishnu in his infinite (ananta) form, with a thread (Anant Sutra) tied on the right wrist of men. The Pandavas observed this vrat on Krishna's advice during their difficult forest years. Second, this is Ganesh Visarjan — the immersion of Ganesh idols on the 10th day of Ganesh Chaturthi, the day with the biggest processions. Across Maharashtra, Goa, and southern India, the Ganesh processions on this day are among India's most spectacular.

Shukla Chaturdashi of Bhadrapada (August/September)

Pitru Paksha is the 15-day period (16 days including Mahalaya) dedicated to honouring deceased ancestors. According to Garuda Purana, the souls of ancestors are temporarily released from their abode and descend to earth expecting their descendants to perform shradh rituals — offerings of food, water, and prayers. If shradh is not performed, the ancestors remain hungry and may curse their lineage. Gaya in Bihar is the most sacred place for Pitru Paksha — Vishnu himself blessed Gaya as the place where performing tarpan liberates ancestors across 100 generations.

Krishna Paksha of Bhadrapada/Ashvin (16 days) — September/October

Mahalaya marks the end of Pitru Paksha (the 15-day period of ancestral offerings) and the beginning of Devi Paksha — the arrival of Goddess Durga. In Bengal, Mahalaya is the day when Durga is said to descend from Kailash to her maternal home. The pre-dawn radio broadcast of 'Mahishasura Mardini' — a 90-minute programme of Devi stotra and songs — has been a beloved tradition for Bengalis since 1932. Families also perform tarpan (water offerings) to ancestors at rivers. The clay images of Durga are given eyes (chhakkhu daan) on this day.

Amavasya ending Pitru Paksha (September/October)

Devi Mahatmya (from the Markandeya Purana) — Mahishasura the buffalo-demon obtained a boon that no man could kill him. The combined energies of all the gods became Durga, who battled him for nine days and slew him on the tenth (Vijayadashami).

Ashvin shukla pratipada to navami (September-October)

Durga Puja 2026 begins from Mahā Ṣaṣṭhī / Kalparambha on October 16, 2026 for the New Delhi panchang model, with the main Bengal-style celebration moving through Saptami, Ashtami, Navami, and Dashami. The festival worships Maa Durga as the Shakti who defeats Mahishasura, but in Bengal the story is also deeply tender: Maa comes home like a beloved daughter, bringing Lakshmi, Saraswati, Kartikeya, and Ganesha with her. Families visit pandals, hear the dhak, offer pushpanjali, share bhog, and finally bid her farewell at visarjan. That is why Durga Puja feels both grand and intimate: victory over adharma outside, and a mother's presence inside the home.

Shukla Sashti to Dashami of Ashvin (September/October) — overlaps with Navratri

(1) Rama's defeat of Ravana in Lanka (rakshasa-vadha); (2) Durga's defeat of Mahishasura on the tenth day of her nine-day battle. Both stories celebrate dharma's triumph over adharma.

Ashvin shukla dashami (October), tenth day after Sharad Navratri

Sharad Purnima is regarded as the most beautiful full moon of the year — the moon is believed to be at its fullest and most luminous, shining with all 16 kalas (phases). Lakshmi is believed to roam the earth on this night asking 'Ko jagrati?' (Who is awake?) — hence called Kojagari Purnima. She bestows wealth on those who stay awake. In Vaishnava tradition, this is the night of the Maharaas — Krishna's divine circular dance with the gopis in Vrindavana. The moonlight on this night is said to have healing properties.

Purnima of Ashvin (October)

Several stories: (1) Veeravati, who broke her fast prematurely and lost her husband, then resumed strict observance and revived him; (2) Savitri-Satyavan story interpreted in this fast-context; (3) Draupadi's vrat to safeguard the Pandavas.

Kartik krishna chaturthi (October-November)

Kumbh Mela traces its origin to the Samudra Manthan — the churning of the cosmic ocean. A pot (kumbha) of amrita (nectar of immortality) emerged, and gods and demons fought over it for 12 days (equivalent to 12 human years). Drops of amrita fell at four places: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain. The Maha Kumbh at Prayagraj every 12 years is the world's single largest peaceful human gathering — in 2025 it drew 400 million visitors. Bathing at the Triveni Sangam (confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, and invisible Saraswati) during the most auspicious Shahi Snan dates is considered to wash away all sin.

Every 12 years at Prayagraj (Ardha Kumbh every 6 years); rotating with Haridwar, Nashik, Ujjain

Ahoi Ashtami is a fast observed by mothers for the longevity and well-being of their sons. The origin story involves a woman who accidentally killed a lion cub while digging clay from the forest. The lioness cursed her children. The woman repented and worshipped Ahoi Mata (a form of Parvati) on this day. Her children were restored. The word Ahoi is said to come from 'aho' (auspiciousness) or from the Hindi 'a-hoi' (not lost). Mothers fast throughout the day without water, breaking their fast only after seeing the stars at night.

Krishna Ashtami of Kartik (8 days before Diwali)

Diwali stories vary by region, including the return of Rama to Ayodhya, worship of Lakshmi, and themes of inner light and auspicious beginnings.

Kartik amavasya period, usually October or November, with city event dates announced annually.

Dhan Teras opens the five-day Diwali season. 'Dhan' means wealth and 'Teras' is the thirteenth lunar day. Three deities are worshipped: Dhanvantari (the physician of the gods, who emerged from the ocean churning carrying the pot of amrita), Lakshmi (for wealth), and Yama (to ward off untimely death). The tradition of buying gold, silver, or metal utensils on this day has ancient roots — purchasing something new of metal is considered auspicious for wealth. Tiny footprints of Lakshmi are drawn leading into the house.

Krishna Trayodashi of Kartik (2 days before Diwali)

Deepavali is an important Guyana observance connected with light over darkness, devotion, home blessing, family, and Indo-Guyanese heritage.

Guyana 2026 holiday calendars list Deepavali on November 8, with a public holiday on November 9.

Multiple stories: (1) Rama's return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and Ravana's defeat; (2) Lakshmi emerging from samudra-manthan; (3) Krishna defeating Narakasura; (4) Vamana confining Bali; (5) Lakshmi Puja and Krishna defeating Narakasura.

Kartik Amavasya (October-November)

Diwali is an important Suriname observance connected with light, devotion, prosperity, spiritual renewal.

Observed according to the Hindu lunar calendar; listed in 2026 on November 8.

Kali Puja is the primary Kali festival of Bengal, observed on the same night as Diwali across the rest of India. Goddess Kali — the fierce form of Durga who destroyed the demon Raktabija — is worshipped with elaborate rituals on the darkest night of the year. The darkness of Amavasya is considered Kali's own element. Unlike the more widely celebrated Durga Puja, Kali Puja is conducted at night and involves tantric rituals, red hibiscus flowers, and sometimes non-vegetarian offerings. The Kalighat and Dakshineswar temples in Kolkata are the most celebrated centres.

Amavasya of Kartik (new moon — same night as Diwali)

Naraka Chaturdashi celebrates Krishna's defeat of the demon Narakasura who had imprisoned 16,000 women (one account says 16,100). Satyabhama, Krishna's wife, played a crucial role in the battle — she killed Narakasura after he wounded Krishna. The women were freed and Krishna married all of them (to restore their honour). This day is called Chhoti Diwali (Little Diwali) and firecrackers are burst before sunrise to symbolise the destruction of the demon. In South India, people bathe before sunrise as a purification rite.

Krishna Chaturdashi of Kartik (1 day before Diwali/Amavasya)

Krishna lifted the Govardhan mountain on his little finger for seven days to protect the people of Vraja from Indra's wrathful floods. When Indra proudly demanded the traditional yajna offering, Krishna persuaded the Braj people to worship Govardhan mountain (Giriraj) instead. The furious Indra sent torrential rains, but Krishna sheltered everyone and their cattle under the mountain. A humbled Indra then surrendered and recognised Krishna as the Supreme. On this day, an Annakut (mountain of food) is offered — a mound of 56 or 108 different dishes symbolising the mountain.

Shukla Pratipada of Kartik — day after Diwali

Bhai Dooj celebrates the bond of brothers and sisters. On this day, Yamuna (the river goddess) worshipped her brother Yama (god of death) and invited him for a meal. Pleased, Yama blessed her that whoever receives a tilak from their sister on this day will be protected from untimely death. Sisters apply a tilak on their brother's forehead, offer aarti and gifts, and pray for their long life. Brothers give gifts in return. The festival parallels Raksha Bandhan in celebrating the sibling bond but is celebrated on a different occasion.

Shukla Dwitiya of Kartik — two days after Diwali

Skanda Sashti celebrates the victory of Lord Murugan (Kartikeya / Skanda) over the demon Surapadman. The demon had imprisoned the gods and brought chaos to the three worlds. Shiva and Parvati gave birth to Murugan specifically to destroy this evil. Over six days of battle, Murugan finally vanquished Surapadman on the sixth day (Sashti), splitting him into two — one half became the peacock (Murugan's vehicle) and the other became the rooster (on his flag). The festival is observed with six days of fasting.

Shukla Sashti of Aippasi (Kartik) — October/November

(1) Karna (Mahabharata), son of Surya, popularized Chhath; (2) Sita performed Chhath at Munger after returning from Lanka; (3) Draupadi performed Chhath. Worship of Surya as the visible Brahman.

Kartik shukla shashthi (October-November); 4-day festival starting from Kartik shukla chaturthi

Dev Uthani Ekadashi, also called Devotthan or Prabodhini Ekadashi, marks the day Lord Vishnu is believed to awaken from his four-month Yoga Nidra at the end of Chaturmas. In 2026, PujaKit lists the India calendar date as November 20, 2026, with a local panchang check recommended for Ekadashi fasting and parana. The day matters because the paused season of major auspicious ceremonies begins to reopen. Many families also begin the Tulsi Vivah period, worshipping Tulsi as Vrinda / Lakshmi and Shaligram or Vishnu as the divine groom. The mood is gentle and hopeful: the Lord wakes, lamps are lit near Tulsi, and homes prepare for weddings, vrata, and winter devotional life.

Shukla Ekadashi of Kartik (October/November)

A festival of lights observed by Indian and wider South Asian communities across Australia.

Kartik amavasya period.

A festival of lights observed by Hindu and South Asian Hindu communities across Canada.

Kartik amavasya period.

Vrinda's chastity made her demon-husband Jalandhara invincible. Vishnu, to save the gods, took Jalandhara's form and Vrinda was unknowingly violated. Vrinda cursed Vishnu to become a stone (Shaligrama) and immolated herself, becoming the Tulsi plant. Tulsi-Krishna vivah symbolically reunites them.

Kartik shukla dvadashi (October-November) — Prabodhini Ekadashi follows by one day

Kartik Purnima is one of the holiest full moons of the year. On this day, Shiva destroyed the three cities (Tripura) of the demon Tripurasura — hence called Tripuri Purnima or Tripurasuri Purnima. Skanda (Kartikeya) was born on this day. Bathing in sacred rivers on this day — especially the Pushkar lake in Rajasthan — is considered supremely meritorious. The Pushkar Camel Fair reaches its peak on this day.

Purnima of Kartik (October/November)

Vivah Panchami celebrates the divine marriage of Lord Rama and Sita — which took place on this tithi in the Treta Yuga. Sage Vishvamitra had brought Rama and his brother Lakshmana to Mithila. The condition of Sita's swayamvar was to string and lift the Shiva Dhanush (divine bow). Rama not only lifted but broke the bow. Their wedding is described in the Valmiki Ramayana and the Ramcharitmanas of Tulsidas. Janakpur in Nepal (Sita's birthplace) and Ayodhya (Rama's birthplace) have the grandest celebrations with the entire wedding ceremony re-enacted.

Shukla Panchami of Margashirsha (November/December)

Geeta Jayanti marks the day when Lord Krishna spoke the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra approximately 5,100 years ago. The Gita contains 700 verses across 18 chapters covering karma, bhakti, jnana, the nature of the self, dharma, and the path to liberation. It remains the most influential spiritual text of Hinduism. Kurukshetra in Haryana — the site of the original discourse — hosts a major Gita Mahotsav festival on this day with recitations, cultural programmes, and gatherings of scholars.

Shukla Ekadashi of Margashirsha (November/December — also called Mokshada Ekadashi)

Vaikuntha Ekadashi is the most sacred of all 24 Ekadashis. On this day, Vishnu opened the Vaikuntha Dwara (the door to his heavenly abode) to grant liberation to those who fasted and stayed awake all night. In Tamil Nadu, it is called Vaikunta Ekadashi and the 'Paramapada Vasal' (gateway to Vaikuntha) at Srirangam temple is opened only on this day — devotees pass through it to symbolically attain Vaikuntha. The queues at Srirangam and Tirupati extend for miles.

Shukla Ekadashi of Margashirsha (December) — Dhanurmasa Ekadashi in South India