India is known for its diverse and vibrant festivals, celebrated with enthusiasm and fervor across the country.

Here are some major festivals observed in India:

1. Diwali: Known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. It is celebrated with lighting lamps (diyas), fireworks, sharing sweets, and exchanging gifts.
2. Holi: Holi is the festival of colors, marking the arrival of spring. It involves playful throwing of colored powders and water, bonfires, music, and traditional sweets like gujiya.
3. Durga Puja: This festival honors Goddess Durga and celebrates her victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. It includes elaborate pandal decorations, cultural programs, and rituals.
4. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha: These are Islamic festivals celebrated by Muslims across India. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan (month of fasting), while Eid al-Adha commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God.
5. Christmas: Celebrated by Christians in India, Christmas is observed with midnight Mass, feasting, exchanging gifts, and decorating homes and churches with lights and Christmas trees.
6. Navaratri and Durga Puja: Navaratri is a nine-night festival dedicated to Goddess Durga in various forms. In some regions, it culminates with Dussehra, commemorating the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana.
7. Ganesh Chaturthi: This festival honors Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of wisdom and prosperity. It involves the installation of Ganesha idols in homes and public pandals, followed by rituals and cultural events, and ends with immersion (visarjan) of the idols in water bodies.
8. Onam: Celebrated in Kerala, Onam is a harvest festival that marks the homecoming of King Mahabali. It includes traditional dances like Thiruvathira and Onam Sadya, a grand feast served on banana leaves.
9. Raksha Bandhan: This festival celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters tie a protective thread (rakhi) around their brothers’ wrists, and brothers give gifts in return, symbolizing their mutual love and protection.
10. Makar Sankranti: Celebrated in various forms across India, Makar Sankranti marks the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn. It is associated with kite flying, bonfires, and traditional sweets like tilgul.

These festivals reflect India’s cultural diversity, traditions, and religious beliefs, bringing people together in celebration and harmony.

Each festival has its unique customs, rituals, and significance, contributing to the rich tapestry of Indian culture.