India Public Holidays
India Public Holidays
Searching for the national holidays in India? All public holidays in India are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the India employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to India and want to know what the national and regional holidays are, check the details in the tables below.
India, a country known for its cultural diversity, celebrates a wide range of public holidays. These holidays are influenced by various religious, regional, and national events, making the country’s calendar a vibrant reflection of its rich heritage. Public holidays in India can be broadly categorized into three types: national holidays, religious holidays, and regional/state-specific holidays. Each holiday holds significant cultural and historical value for different communities across the country.
National Public Holidays
National public holidays in India are observed throughout the country, with government offices, banks, and many private institutions remaining closed. These holidays are recognized at the national level and reflect India’s history, unity, and independence.
Republic Day (26th January)
According to ehealthfacts.org, Republic Day, celebrated on the 26th of January, marks the day when the Constitution of India came into effect in 1950. It is a significant national holiday that symbolizes India’s transition into a republic.
Celebrations:
- Parade: The Republic Day parade held in New Delhi is one of the most grand events. It showcases India’s cultural diversity, military strength, and advancements.
- Flag Hoisting: The President of India hoists the national flag, followed by the national anthem.
- Awards: The day also sees the presentation of various civilian and military awards, including the Padma Awards and gallantry awards.
Independence Day (15th August)
Independence Day is celebrated annually on the 15th of August to commemorate India’s freedom from British rule in 1947. It is a day of national pride and patriotism, where people across the country celebrate the spirit of freedom.
Key Events:
- Prime Minister’s Speech: The Prime Minister addresses the nation from the Red Fort in Delhi, reflecting on the country’s achievements and setting goals for the future.
- Flag Hoisting: Flag hoisting ceremonies are conducted in schools, government buildings, and homes.
- Cultural Programs: Patriotic songs, dances, and cultural performances take place across the country.
Gandhi Jayanti (2nd October)
Gandhi Jayanti, observed on the 2nd of October, marks the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of India’s non-violent struggle for independence. It is a day to honor his ideals of truth, peace, and non-violence.
Traditions:
- Tributes: People pay homage to Gandhi by visiting his memorial at Raj Ghat in New Delhi.
- Peace Marches: Many schools and organizations organize peace marches and community service events.
- Cleanliness Drives: In recent years, Gandhi Jayanti has been associated with cleanliness initiatives under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, reflecting Gandhi’s emphasis on cleanliness.
Religious Public Holidays
India’s religious diversity means that several public holidays are based on the observances of different faiths. These holidays are celebrated with rituals, prayers, and festivities that are unique to each religion.
Diwali (Festival of Lights)
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant Hindu festivals in India. It is celebrated over five days, with the third day being the main Diwali day. The festival symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
Traditions:
- Lighting of Diyas: Small oil lamps (diyas) are lit around homes, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness.
- Fireworks: The night sky is illuminated with fireworks as part of the celebrations.
- Exchanging Gifts: Families and friends exchange sweets and gifts as a token of love and prosperity.
- Laxmi Puja: People worship the goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, for blessings in the coming year.
Eid al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr, also known as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting for Muslims. It is an important religious holiday celebrated with joy, prayers, and feasts.
Traditions:
- Morning Prayers: Muslims gather in large congregations for special Eid prayers.
- Charity: It is customary to give Zakat al-Fitr, a form of charity, to the needy before the Eid prayer.
- Feasts: Families and friends come together to share elaborate meals, often featuring dishes like biryani, kebabs, and various sweets.
Eid al-Adha
Eid al-Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. The festival is observed by Muslims across the country.
Traditions:
- Sacrificial Offering: Devout Muslims sacrifice an animal, typically a goat or cow, to symbolize Ibrahim’s sacrifice. The meat is then distributed among family, friends, and the less fortunate.
- Prayers: Special prayers are held in mosques and open grounds.
- Charity: Like Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha emphasizes giving to the needy and sharing with others.
Holi (Festival of Colors)
Holi, the Festival of Colors, is one of India’s most vibrant and joyful festivals, celebrated primarily by Hindus. It signifies the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil.
Celebrations:
- Throwing Colors: People throw colored powders and water at each other, symbolizing the joy of life and the bright colors of spring.
- Bonfires: On the eve of Holi, bonfires are lit to represent the burning of evil, associated with the legend of Holika.
- Festive Foods: Traditional sweets like gujiya and beverages like thandai are enjoyed during the festival.
Christmas (25th December)
Christmas, celebrated on the 25th of December, marks the birth of Jesus Christ and is one of the major holidays for Christians in India. While it is primarily observed in states with a significant Christian population, like Goa, Kerala, and parts of Northeast India, it has also become popular nationwide.
Traditions:
- Midnight Mass: Churches hold special masses, and people gather to sing carols and pray.
- Christmas Trees: Homes and churches are decorated with Christmas trees, lights, and ornaments.
- Feasts and Gifts: Families exchange gifts and share festive meals, including traditional dishes like roast chicken, pork, and cakes.
Guru Nanak Jayanti
Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Gurpurab, marks the birth of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism. It is an important religious holiday for Sikhs and is celebrated with great devotion.
Celebrations:
- Processions: Sikh communities organize processions known as Nagar Kirtans, where hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib (Sikh holy book) are sung.
- Langar (Community Meals): Free meals are served at Gurdwaras (Sikh temples) to all, regardless of religion or background.
- Prayers: Devotees gather at Gurdwaras for prayers and to listen to sermons about Guru Nanak’s teachings.
Mahavir Jayanti
Mahavir Jayanti is the most significant religious holiday for Jains, celebrating the birth of Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara. It is observed with fasting, prayers, and ceremonies.
Key Observances:
- Processions: Jain temples and communities organize processions featuring statues of Lord Mahavir.
- Prayers and Fasting: Devotees visit temples for prayers and often fast on this day.
- Charity: Acts of charity and kindness are encouraged as part of the celebration.
Regional and State-Specific Holidays
India’s vast geography means that each state has its own unique festivals and public holidays. These holidays are based on local traditions, history, and culture, and are celebrated with enthusiasm and pride.
Pongal (Tamil Nadu)
Pongal is a four-day harvest festival celebrated in Tamil Nadu, primarily by the Tamil community. It is dedicated to the Sun God and marks the end of the winter solstice.
Key Traditions:
- Pongal Dish: The festival is named after a special dish made from freshly harvested rice, milk, and jaggery, cooked in clay pots.
- Cattle Festival: On the second day, cattle are worshipped and adorned with flowers as a symbol of gratitude for their role in agriculture.
- Decorations: Homes are decorated with kolams (traditional designs made from rice flour) and flowers.
Baisakhi (Punjab)
Baisakhi, also known as Vaisakhi, is a harvest festival celebrated in Punjab. It also marks the foundation of the Khalsa, a significant event in Sikh history.
Celebrations:
- Gurdwara Prayers: Sikhs visit Gurdwaras for special prayers and kirtans (religious songs).
- Processions: Colorful processions with music and dance take place in various cities and towns.
- Feasts and Fairs: Baisakhi fairs are organized in rural areas, featuring traditional Punjabi music, food, and dance.
Durga Puja (West Bengal)
Durga Puja is a major festival celebrated primarily in West Bengal, Odisha, and parts of Northeast India. It honors the goddess Durga and is marked by elaborate celebrations lasting several days.
Traditions:
- Pandals: Large, intricately designed temporary structures called pandals are erected to house statues of Goddess Durga.
- Cultural Performances: Dance, music, and theatrical performances are held throughout the festival.
- Visarjan: On the final day, statues of the goddess are immersed in water bodies, symbolizing her return to her divine abode.
Onam (Kerala)
Onam is the biggest festival in Kerala, celebrated as a harvest festival and as a tribute to King Mahabali, a legendary ruler of the region.
Key Traditions:
- Pookalam: Colorful floral designs (pookalam) are created at the entrance of homes.
- Onam Sadhya: A grand feast consisting of several traditional Kerala dishes is served on banana leaves.
- Vallam Kali (Boat Race): Spectacular boat races are organized in Kerala’s backwaters as part of the celebrations.
