Expert recommendations of the top events—with tips on how to best experience these celebrations.
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Diwali
October/November (depending on Indian lunar calendar). Five-day Hindu “Festival of Lights.” Candles are lit to symbolically guide Lord Rama home from exile; fireworks; gifts (especially sweets) are exchanged. www.diwalifestival.org
Dussehra
September or October (determined by Indian lunar calendar). Hindu festival marks Lord Rama’s triumph over the wicked demon, Ravana. Effigies of Ravana are set alight and theatrical performances take place.
Holi
February or March (depending on Indian lunar calendar). Hindu festival celebrating the arrival of spring. People joyfully throw colored powder. Tip: Don’t wear good clothes. Bonfires lit on the evening before Holi symbolize the demise of the demon, Holika. www.holifestival.org
Republic Day
January 26. Massive military parade (and folk dances) along Rajpath to mark India’s becoming a republic on this day in 1950. Celebrations conclude three days later with the dramatic, military focused “Beating of the Retreat.”
