All the festivals have a long past and many have undergone major modifications. Though the enthusiasm for some also seems to be fading, nevertheless they do bring about a change in the lifestyle of the people. Some festivals and fasts are religion specific protocols aiming towards communication with the divine. The liveliness of the people is reflected in the colorful vibrancy of the fairs and festivals. Processions, prayers, new attires, dance, music etc. are elements related to any such celebration.
Festivals in India are determined by the Solar & Lunar positions.
Brief list of Indian festivals
January
Makar Sankranti, Lohri, Pongal, Thai Pusam, Float Festival, National Kite Festival, Bikaner Festival, Pattadakal Dance Festival, Id-ul-Fitr, Vasant Panchami
February
Mahashivratri, Goa Carnival, Desert Festival, Nagaur Fair, International Yoga Week, Elephant Festival, Deccan Festival, Taj Mahotsav, Surajkund Crafts Mela, Chapchar Kut, Islands Tourism Festival
March
Holi, Gangaur, Jamshed-e-Navroz, Ramnavami, id-ul-Zuha, Mahavir Jayanti, Khajuraho Dance Festival, Elephant Festival, Hoysala Mahotsava, Ellora Festival
April
Good Friday, Easter, Baisakhi, Gudi Padva or Ugadi, Pooram, Maharram, Buddha Purnima, Mewar
June
Ganga Dussehra, Hemis Festival
July
Rathyatra, Guru Purnima
August
Janmashtami, Onam, Nag Panchami, Rakshabandhan, Ganesh Chaturthi
September
Tarnetar Mela
October
Navratri, Durga Puja, Dussehra, Marwar Festival
November
Sharad Purnima, Diwali, Guu Purab, Ka Pomblang Nongrem, Sonepur Fair, Pushkar Fair, Hampi Festival
December
Christmas, Konark Dance Festival
