Top 5 Unique Indian Festivals

India is a land of great diversity; be it its diverse topographies, varied cultures or different traditions. The thousands of festivals celebrated here are a mark of its rich culture and traditions. Some are solemn religious affairs, while others bring with them much joy and an occasion to let loose. Furthermore, there are others that are marked not just by their popularity, beauty or piety but by their extraordinariness. We bring to you some wonderful (or as we call it the ‘W’ factor) celebrations in India.

1. Hemis Festival

Where: Hemis Monastery (Leh)

What is it about: This festival is celebrated in honour of Guru Padmasambhava, the founder of Tantric Buddhism in Tibet.

The W Factor: The highlight of the festival is the masked dances by the Lamas during which they wear huge painted masks representing various characters such as demons, Guru Padmasambhava himself, Yama, the God of death and Guru Trapko, a wizard and slayer of demons. The traditional dances narrate stories of the triumph of good over evil. The accompanying dresses worn by the lamas, made of the richest silks and brocades, are equally elaborate. The dances are accompanied by the sounds of cymbals, drums and trumpets and the entire show is one peculiar yet enjoyable affair.

2. Dahi Handi, Janmashtami

Where: Mumbai (Maharashtra)

What is it about: Held during Krishan Janmasthtami, the dahi handi celebrations are a recreation of Lord Krishna’s famous and naughty habit of stealing and devouring dahi (yogurt) and makhan (butter) stored by gopis (girls) in earthen pots, hung high from the ceiling.

The W Factor: In modern times however, the dahi and makhan have been replaced by moolah and the stakes can be pretty high – as high as Rs. 1 lakh or even more. Groups of young men and even small boys make tall human pyramids in an attempt to reach the handi (pot) usually hung pretty high on a crane or on buildings. Whichever group manages to break the handi first wins the prize. Members of rival teams in the meanwhile will try and break the pyramids or distract the group by throwing colour and water on them. A very popular and dangerous affair, it usually ends in several broken bones and serious injuries.

Photo Credit: Sandeshmahadik8 / wikimedia

3. Rural Olympics, Kila Raipur

Where: Kila Raipur near Ludhiana (Punjab)

What is it about: Known as the Kila Raipur Sports Festival or simply the Rural Olympics, this is a much awaited affair for locals as well as sporting enthusiasts across the world. As many as 4000 participants descend on Kila Raipur near Ludhiana every year for the festival which has been going strong for nearly 60 years now!

The W Factor: This festival includes several unique sporting events such as dog, camel and tractor races, horse dances and some brute display of strength in the form of pulling cars and bikes with teeth, riding cycles which have been set aflame and several other similar stunts. The festivities last for three days.

4. Onam

Where: Thrissur, Kerala

What is it about: Onam is a harvest festival celebrated in the month of September to celebrate a large harvest. The four-day festivities include singing, dancing and feasting for the state best known for its serene backwaters.

The W Factor:  On the fourth day of the Onam celebrations, trained performers painted like tigers in bright yellows, reds, black and white, dance to the beats of musical instruments performing the Pulikali, literally meaning the ‘play of tigers’. The dressing up of the tigers is a painstakingly detailed affair and is enjoyed by thousands who descend the streets to cheer on, while also shaking a leg!

5. Matho Nagrang Festival

Where: Matho Nagrang Monastery (Leh)

What is it about: Regarded as the Tibetan New Year, the festival is celebrated in March, when thousands of visitors come to the monastery. There are cultural performances, prayers and a feeling of celebration.

The W Factor: While the masked monks and their dramatic personifications are a great hit with visitors, the festival’s main attractions are the two oracles and their unbelievable fetes. These oracles are actually monks, known as Rongstan. They usually begin their preparation for this day months in advance with austere fasting and penance, purifying their body and soul. On the day of the festival they enter the courtyard and go into a state of trance, said to be brought on due to their possession by oracles. During this time they may climb up the monastery ramparts blindfolded or cut themselves with knives. They also make predictions for the monastery as well as individuals who may have questions for them.

Photo Credit: concoction / flickr

There is no doubt that India is indeed a land of unique celebrations and festivals. So come and experience them first hand. Book your flight, hotel and holiday packages only on MakeMyTrip.com