Fairs and Festivals of India: State-Wise Cultural Calendar

TOPIC CLASSIFICATION

Subject: Art & Culture | Topic: Fairs and Festivals Sub-topic: Major Religious, Harvest, and Cultural Festivals; State-Wise Distribution Prelims Focus: Match-the-festival-with-state; unique festivals and their locations Mains Focus: Role of festivals in social cohesion, tourism, and cultural economy

EXAMINER REASONING

Examiners use this topic to test knowledge of India's cultural calendar across states and to assess cultural literacy. Prelims typically includes match-the-pair questions linking festivals to states. Mains questions explore how festivals promote national integration and cultural tourism.

Core Concept

India's fairs (melas) and festivals are expressions of its multicultural fabric, rooted in religious, seasonal, harvest, and historical events. Almost every state has its distinctive calendar. Festivals serve as platforms for social bonding, economic activity (tourism, handicraft sales), and preservation of intangible heritage.

Major Festivals by Category

National Festivals (pan-India): Diwali, Holi, Dussehra, Eid, Christmas, Guru Nanak Jayanti, Mahavir Jayanti, Buddha Purnima.

Harvest Festivals: Makar Sankranti/Pongal/Lohri/Bhogali Bihu/Vaisakhi (all mid-January), Onam (Kerala, August–September), Nuakhai (Odisha).

Regional/State Festivals: