In Delhi, various events take place throughout the year. The festivals have always been a major dias for many cultural, religious and state events. Delhi being the capital of the nation, is expected to be the hub of all the festive activities. Hence we can see the city celebrating the festivals and events pertaining to all religions and cultures of India. Some of the festivals and celebrations are listed below.

Id-Ul-Fitr

Celebrated to mark the end of Ramzan, the Muslim month of fasting. It is an occasion for fasting and rejoicing

Makar Sankranti

A major harvest festival of India. It is one of the biggest events in the states of Tamilnadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Bull fights and bullock races are an important feature of the celebrations. Also celebrated in the eastern region when millions of piligrims take a holy dip in the Ganges.


Republic Day

The national festival in India observed through out the country to mark the inauguration of the Republic of India on 26th January 1950. In Delhi, the celebrations include a magnificent parade of the Armed Forces, folk dances and floats from the different states of India


Holi

Holi the festival of colors is celebrated in the capital with great vigour and joy on the day of the full moon in the month of 'Phalguna'. People smear 'Gulal' or coloured powder often mixed with water on one another and dance to the beats of the drums.


Diwali

Diwali, the festival of lights and fireworks is celebrated throughout the country during Oct-Nov. People illuminate their houses with rows of earthen lamps to welcome Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. At night crackers are fired to celebrate the return of Lord Rama from exile.


Dussera

It is a ten day festival, celebrated in Sept./Oct., of which nine days are spent in worship. The tenth day is a celebration of victory of good over evil. Huge effigies of Ravana, the demon king, are burnt on the last day of festival. The heroic deeds of Lord Rama who destroyed Ravana are enacted in song and dance.


Independance Day

Independance Day is celebrated on August 15. Processions and flag hoisting on the Red Fort mark the celebration.