India is rightly known as the country of festivals. Every month of the calendar brings with it a festival to be celebrated – each of which is unique and special with a historical or cultural story of its own. The history or story behind the festival is the key reason behind the customs and rituals that are integral to the celebration of the festival. Even though we do not fully understand the purport or significance of these rituals we perform them with much aplomb. While an appreciation of the symbolism heightens the fervour multi-fold, it does not deter Indians in the country and abroad from celebrating each festival with fanfare and enthusiasm.

The major festivals of India range from historical or mythological to commemorations of seasonal changes, to environment and nature focused. While some festivals are celebrated across the country there are some others which are specific to certain sects and groups.

List of festivals in 2015
November 2015
9   Monday   Dhanteras
10   Tuesday   Naraka Chathurdashi
11   Wednesday   Diwali, Lakshmi Pooja
12   Thursday   Bali Padyami/Gowardhana Pooja
12   Thursday   Muharram
13   Friday   Bhaiya Dooj
25   Wednesday   Guru Nanak Jayanti

December
25   Friday   Christmas