Indian Festivals are celebrated by varied cultures and through their special rituals add to the colours of Indian Heritage. Some festivals welcome the seasons of the year, the harvest, the rains, or the full moon. Others celebrate religious occasions, the birthdays of saints and gurus (revered teachers), or the advent of the New Year. A number of these festivals are common to most parts of India. However, they may be called by different names in various parts of the country or may be celebrated in a different fashion...

India is a nation rich in spirituality, where festivals carry profound cultural significance and reasons for celebration. It often feels like a grand carnival during these times of festivity across the country. As May approaches, the temperatures start to rise, ushering in hot and humid summer days. Nevertheless, the festive spirit within the hearts of the people remains undeterred. This month also marks Jyeshta and Baisakh in the Lunar Calendar, bringing with it several important festivals.

May kicks off with May Day (मई दिवस) or World Labour Day (अंतराष्ट्रीय मजदूर दिवस), celebrated globally with great reverence. Historically recognized as International Worker's Day, it carries a significant legacy. On the mid of May, Buddha Poornima (बुद्ध पूर्णिमा) will be observed to honor the birth of Lord Buddha, the founder of Buddhism.

Other notable UN observances this month include International Nurse Day (अंतराष्ट्रीय नर्स दिवस), No Tobacco Day(विश्व तंबाकू निषेध दिवस), Anti Terrorism Day(आंतकवाद विरोध दिवस), and World Telecommunication Day(विश्व दूरसंचार दिवस), with various events and programs aimed at raising awareness about these important days worldwide. Several noteworthy Hindu festivals are also on the horizon this month. Narsimha Jayanti (नरसिंह जयंती) will be celebrated on the first week of May, marking the appearance of Lord Narsimha, who came to protect Dharam and Bhakti embodied in Maharaj Prahlad. Another significant occasion, Narad Jayanti (नारद जयंती), falls on this month, commemorating the birth anniversary of Devrishi Narad, known for his singing and worldwide communication of information. Additionally, Vrats of spiritual significance will be observed for Ganga Saptami(गंगा सप्तमी), Mohini Ekadashi (मोहिनी एकादशी), and Sita Navami (सीता नवमी) this month. Mother's Day(मदर्स डे मातृ दिवस) on the 11th of May presents a wonderful opportunity to express love and appreciation for mothers.

The sentiment can be beautifully captured by a Jewish Proverb - "God could not be everywhere and therefore he made Mothers." Dedicate this day to your exceptional mother, acknowledging her efforts so she knows just how significant she is to you and everyone else. Her unwavering spirit and constant care are why you exist, so make her feel cherished. In addition to spiritual observances, numerous fairs and Melas will take place across various states and towns in India to celebrate the seasonal transition.

May will also feature festivals of national importance such as Rabindra Nath Tagore Jayanti(रबीन्द्रनाथ टैगोर जयंती), Ch. Charan Singh Death Anniversary (चौधरी चरण सिंह पुण्यतिथि), Rajiv Gandhi Death Anniversary (राजीव गांधी पुण्यतिथि), Raja Ram Mohan Roy Jayanti (राजा राम मोहन राय जयंती), and Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru Death Anniversary (पंडित जवाहर लाल नेहरु पुण्यतिथि), commemorating eminent figures who contributed to the nation’s development during their time. Special events are scheduled in schools and institutions worldwide to honor these influential individuals and their contributions. Other notable festivals this month include Guru Amar Das Jayanti (गुरु अमरदास जयंती) and Veer Savarkar Jayanti (वीर सावरकर जयंती). Dive in and immerse yourself in the rich array of festivals, fairs, and Melas celebrated throughout India.

Explore and enjoy the panorama of Festivals / Fairs / Melas celebrated in India.

Forthcoming Festivals