Devotion, wisdom, and tradition
Indian Festivals
Follow the rhythm of our traditions. Explore festival dates, significance, and rituals.
Indian Festivals
Navratri
Navratri dedicates nine nights to the worship of Goddess Durga's nine forms (Navadurga), celebrating the power of Shakti and, on the tenth day, her victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. Each of the nine nights is associated with a different form of the Goddess and, in many regions, a specific color worn by devotees.
Dussehra
Dussehra, also called Vijayadashami, celebrates the victory of good over evil and dharma over adharma. It marks two mythological endings that fall on the same day: Lord Rama's defeat of the demon king Ravana and Goddess Durga's defeat of the buffalo demon Mahishasura, both after prolonged battles lasting several days.
Karva Chauth
A strict waterless fast observed by married women for the longevity and well-being of their husbands.
Dhanteras
Dhanteras marks the beginning of the Diwali festive period. Many families remember Dhanvantari, Lakshmi, and Kubera, light lamps, and prepare their homes. Customs vary by region and family.
Diwali
Diwali is the festival of light, prosperity, and the victory of dharma. Families worship Lakshmi and Ganesha, light diyas, and welcome auspiciousness into clean, devotional homes.
Govardhan Puja
A festival honoring nature and the victory of Lord Krishna over Indra's pride. Known as Annakoot.
Bhai Dooj
Bhai Dooj celebrates the bond of love and protection between brothers and sisters, and is observed with prayers for a brother's long life and wellbeing. It falls two days after Diwali, on the second day of the bright fortnight of Kartik, and is known by different names across India, including Bhai Tika in Nepal and Bhau Beej in Maharashtra.
Chhath Puja
A rigorous 4-day spiritual journey dedicated to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiyya for health and longevity.
Kartik Purnima and Dev Deepawali
Kartik Purnima is the full moon of Kartik and is associated in many traditions with lamps, bathing, and giving. Varanasi’s Dev Deepawali is especially known for lighting the Ganga ghats on this day.
Gita Jayanti
The day Bhagavad Gita was revealed by Lord Krishna to Arjuna, offering solutions to humanity’s dilemmas.