Last Updated At: 14-Apr-2025
As the sun shines brighter and the temperatures get warmer, India gears up to celebrate some of the most vibrant festivals in may india, from Buddha Purnima to Ganga Dussehra, celebrated on the grand level this month. Additionally, Hindus keep monthly fasts as a ritual observance, and Sikhs pay homage to important events related to the legacy of their ten Sikh Gurus.
The joyous festival in May celebrates the unity of India's diverse culture and reminds us of our shared values. This month is a time of celebration and reconnecting with family, friends and community. So, whether you're a traveller seeking to explore India's cultural heritage or a local looking to participate in your community's festivities, May's festivals in India offer something for everyone.
Join me as we take a journey through the various festivals celebrated in May in India, exploring the customs, traditions, and beliefs that make them so unique. Let's get started and dive into the fascinating world of festivals in May 2025 in India!
May's festivals are not just about religious observances; they also serve as a way to bring people together, foster a sense of community, and celebrate life's joys. In a country as diverse as India, where every state has unique customs and traditions, May's festivals offer a glimpse into its vibrant cultural tapestry. So, broaden your cultural knowledge this May and uncover India's captivating festivals, holidays and events!
Narasimha Jayanti is a Hindu festival that commemorates the manifestation of Lord Vishnu's fourth avatar, Narasimha. On this day, devotees offer prayers and perform rituals to invoke the blessings of Lord Narasimha.
The festivities begin with reciting the Narasimha prayers and readings from sacred Hindu texts. After this, devotees participate in yajnas (fire rituals) to receive divine blessings and grace. Special poojas are held at temples throughout the country on this day, and devotees adorn the image of Lord Narasimha with beautiful garlands and other decorations.
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Coal Miners Day in India is celebrated on 04 may festivals every year to pay homage to coal miners and their contribution to society. It is a day dedicated to recognising the hard work, dedication, and bravery of coal miners all around the country.
On this day, various activities are organised throughout the country to honour coal miners and promote workplace safety. In addition, special programs are held to educate people on the hazards associated with working in coal mines. This day also serves as an opportunity for people to come together and recognise the contribution of coal miners in the development of India.
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Buddha Purnima, or Buddha Jayanti, is a Buddhist festival that celebrates the birth of Siddhartha Gautama—also known as Lord Buddha. This festival is celebrated in India and many other countries by Buddhists who commemorate this special day with prayers and offerings to the sacred image of Lord Buddha.
On this day, followers of Buddhism visit temples and monasteries to offer their prayers and meditate in the presence of a sacred image or statue of the Buddha. They also engage in charitable activities such as providing food and clothing to those who are less fortunate.
4. Chithirai Festival - The festival of Madurai honours
The renowned Chithirai Festival is a highly anticipated annual Tamil Hindu celebration in Madurai, also known as Chithirai Thiruvizha, Meenakshi Kalyanam or Meenakshi Thirukalyanam. During the Tamil month of Chithirai, an annual festival is held in honour of Meenakshi Temple and its deities: Parvati's incarnation as Meenakshi and Shiva's manifestation as Sundareshwar. This joyous event showcases the beauty and grandeur that these divine figures embody.
For a full 30 days, the festival of Madurai honours Meenakshi's coronation as a divine ruler, with 15 days devoted to her marriage to Sundareshwar. The remaining half marks Kallalagar (or Alagar -- an avatar of Vishnu) and his journey from Alagarkoyil to Madurai.
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Basava Jayanthi is a Hindu festival celebrating the birthday of Shri Basavanna, a 12th-century philosopher and social reformer. It is celebrated throughout Karnataka by devotees of Lingayatism—an Indian religious movement based on Shaivism.
On this day, devotees of Basavanna visit temples and monasteries to offer prayers in his honour. Devotees also participate in various spiritual activities, such as chanting hymns, singing devotional songs and exchanging garlands. Additionally, people engage in community service activities such as helping the needy, feeding the poor and protecting the environment.
6. Sankashti Chaturthi - Celebrate Lord Ganesha
Sankashti Chaturthi is an auspicious day dedicated to the worship of Lord Ganesha—the Remover of Obstacles. The day is observed on the fourth day after each new moon or Krishna Paksha Chaturthi.
On this day, devotees of Lord Ganesha observe a fast throughout the day and recite special prayers dedicated to him. They also offer flowers, sweets and Modaks (a sweet dessert) to Lord Ganesha as a token of their devotion.
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7. Rabindranath Tagore Jayanti - Celebrate the birthday of Rabindranath Tagore
Rabindranath Tagore Jayanti is a day that celebrates the birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore—the Nobel Prize-winning poet, novelist, playwright and composer. This day is celebrated in India with great enthusiasm to commemorate the life and achievements of one of India's most significant literary figures.
It is also a time to remember Tagore's contribution to India and the world, as his works are still read and appreciated even today. The celebrations involve many cultural programs, lectures about Tagore's work, performances of his plays and songs, debates on various social issues associated with Rabindranath Tagore, and exhibitions highlighting his life. This festival is celebrated in May 2025 in India, and it is a great way to honour Tagore's legacy.
8. Mother's Day - A Special Day to Celebrate Mothers
Mother's Day is a special day celebrated worldwide, dedicated to honouring mothers and celebrating motherhood. It is a day to thank mothers for their love, care and sacrifices.
In India, this special day is celebrated with great enthusiasm. People send cards or gifts to their mothers on this day as an expression of gratitude. Families get together to show appreciation and love for their mothers, often organising dinner parties and other activities such as pampering sessions for their mothers.
The International Flower Festival in Gangtok is one of the most spectacular festivals celebrated in India. This event brings together folk dancers, artisans, and flower growers nationwide to showcase their exquisite talent.
During the show, not only are you presented with an incredible selection of orchids, gladioli, cacti, roses, trees, ferns and many other plant varieties - but your taste buds will also be delighted by a range of regional delicacies! For thrill-seekers, river rafting is an exciting activity to experience. Adding a touch of uniqueness to the Flower Festival in Sikkim is its Yak Safari - a must-try for those with adventurous spirits. Thousands of visitors flock to this celebration yearly to witness the interesting sights and sound that make up Goa's unique culture.
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The Summer Festival is a fun-filled event organised in India each year to celebrate the beauty and bounty of summer. Every year in May, on Buddha Purnima, Rajasthan Tourism and the Municipal Board of Mt. host a joyous festival to celebrate the vibrant energy of this hill station's residents. Abu and District Administration have collaborated to bring you a vibrant extravaganza that will begin with the ceremonial procession originating from RTDC Hotel Shikhar. Afterwards, Rajasthan and Gujarat's native folk performances will grace all.
The second and third days are more interesting, as they bring out the adventurer in every tourist. Skating races, boat races, horse races, tug-of-war, and panihari matka racing, along with a CRPF band show and skaters' show and Deepdan, make the festival quite a success. Don't miss out on this exciting event!
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Moatsu Festival, also known as Moatsu Mong, is celebrated in may festivals among the Ao Naga tribes of Nagaland. It marks the end of the sowing season and is a harvest festival that celebrates fertility, renewal and peace. During this time, men and women wear traditional attire with elaborate headgear.
The celebrations last three days and begin with the men performing traditional dances, singing folk songs and playing musical instruments like horns, drums and cymbals to welcome summer. The Moatsu Mong Food Festival is another highlight of this event, where a variety of dishes prepared from freshly harvested grains are served to all. Brewing batches of rice beer, fattening pigs and other animals for festive feasting, and singing eulogies in honour of traditional heroes are all part of the festivities. To top it off, a knowledgeable individual reveals what good or bad days lie ahead for the village.
The festival isn't just for locals - it's a joyous occasion that draws people from across the country to witness and experience Nagaland's unparalleled culture. It is truly an unforgettable event filled with fun, laughter and excitement!
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In May, the Konkani phrase Igitun Chalne - meaning "walking through the fire" - is commemorated each year at the Sirigao temple located 30 kilometres away from Panjim, the state's capital. People from near and far congregate around the temple, eagerly watching as reverent rituals are performed. Those more daring souls dare to walk on fire, braving this feat with the encouragement of onlookers. Dedicated followers of goddess Lairaya believe that they must endure a sacred trial by fire and show both their feet and faith. Surely, this festival is an incredible experience!
If you're planning to visit the Igitun Chalne festival, remember to bring along a lot of enthusiasm and respect. It's an incredible event worth witnessing - be sure not to miss out!
If you want to know about Buddhism, the Saga Dawa is the perfect festival in May to witness that. The festival is celebrated throughout June and is relevant to Tibetan and Mahayana Buddhists. Celebrated to highlight the birth, edification, and nirvana of Gautam Buddha, Saga Dawa hosts numerous colourful events.
Saga Dawa is celebrated in all the monasteries of Sikkim. However, the critical event, the grand monk procession, begins from Tsuklakhang Palace Monastery. A large number of monks walk through the streets of the city in this procession, chanting prayers. You will also see musical performances and masked monk dances at the festival. In memory of Buddha, monks even light up butter lamps.
Festival season in India is the perfect time to explore the country and its culture. May is specially packed with unique celebrations that are sure to mesmerise you! Each festival captures the essence of its respective region from Ganga Dussehra, Moatsu Festival and Igitun Chalne. To stay updated on all upcoming events, visit Adotip.com and get ready to experience some of the best festivals in India this year!
No matter where you are or what festival you may celebrate, May is a time for joy, laughter and togetherness! So mark your calendars and plan to experience the beauty of India's festivals this May.
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Q: What are the most popular festivals celebrated in India during May?
A: The festivals in May 2025 are:
Q: What to consider when planning to visit a festival in India?
A: Before planning to visit any of the above festivals, you should research the climate and cultural customs of the particular region. Respect the local culture and traditions, dress appropriately and remember to keep yourself hydrated. Additionally, ensure you have enough cash on hand, as some festivals may not accept cards or digital payments.
Q. How to book flights and accommodations for festivals in India?
A: You can book flights and accommodation through popular travel websites like Adotrip.com. Once you have chosen the festival and destination, compare flight prices and book them accordingly. You can also book hotel rooms near the festival venue for easy access.
Q: What special dishes are prepared for festivals in India?
A: Each region has its own traditional dishes prepared during festivals. For instance, at the Thrissur Pooram festival, stew and appam (rice pancakes) are made, whereas, during the Ooty Summer Festival, curries, sweets and snacks like murukku and paniyaram are savoured.
Q. What is the best way to experience and capture the energy of a festival?
A: The best way to truly experience and capture the energy of a festival is to interact with locals and hear their stories. Visit the local market, attend workshops and try some regional cuisines.
Q. What special rituals are performed during festivals?
A: Many special rituals like poojas and processions may be performed during festivals. In some festivals, firewalking may be carried out as an act of dedication to the deity. Rituals like breaking coconuts and tying a Kalasha (pot) may take place.
Q. Are there any other festivals celebrated in May 2025 in India?
A: Following are the main festivals that are celebrated in May 2025 in India:
Q. What are some must-have items to bring for a festival in India?
A: Here is a list of essential items one must have while visiting festivals in India:
Q. What is the significance of May festivals in India?
A. May festivals in India often mark the onset of summer and are celebrated with various cultural, religious, and traditional events across the country. These festivals are an integral part of Indian heritage, showcasing the diversity and rich cultural tapestry of the nation.
With this information in hand, get ready to explore and experience the culture, customs, and cuisines of India's festivals in May 2025. Have a wonderful time!
--- Published By Adotrip
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