Holi - a riot of colors
Between the months of February and March every year, the streets of India come alive with a riot of colors. It commemorates the victory of good over evil, brought about by the burning and destruction of the demoness named Holika. The festival marks the end of winter and the abundance of the upcoming spring harvest season.
In most parts of India, the celebration of the festival starts almost a week in advance. You should look on the streets for water balloons and color, as you may be targeted anywhere and everywhere. It is a fun festival which brings together people of all ages. For the best Holi experience in India, head to Mathura which witnesses week long celebrations.
Diwali - a festival of lights
Diwali, or Dipawali, is India's biggest and most important holiday of the year. This festival is as important to Hindus as the Christmas holiday is to Christians. It takes place somewhere in the months of October and November, 20 days after Dussehra.
The candlelight makes Diwali a very warm and atmospheric festival, and it is observed with much joy and happiness. However, be prepared for lots of loud noise from the fireworks and firecrackers going off. The air also becomes filled with smoke from the firecrackers, which can add to breathing difficulties.
Onam - a cultural experience
Onam festival is the largest and most elaborate festival in the Indian. Onam festival in India lasts 10 days and unites the people of Kerala putting religion and the caste system aside. It celebrates the harvest season and occurs in the first month of the Malayam Calendar called Chingam.
If you are planning a Kerala tour, try and plan it to coincide with the festival. Onam is a festival with colorful fairs, awesome dance competitions, and exhilarating snake boat races organized through large parts of Kerala. Throughout the festival, there is a feeling of bonhomie and happiness.
Navratri - dance, dance, dance
Navaratri is a nine-night festival that honors the Mother Goddess in all her manifestations, including Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati. Moreover, it is a festival full of worship and dance.
The festival is celebrated all over India but in different ways. The most flamboyant and renowned Navaratri celebrations can be seen in western India, throughout the state of Gujarat and in Mumbai.
You can see several beautiful banquets being set up across the country during festival. There is gourmet food at these banquets and some amazing music to dance too. Often, people find the love of their life during this festival, as you get a chance to play Dandiya with a member of the opposite sex.