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 are set off, and gifts (especially sweets) are exchanged.
Dussehra
September or October (determined by Indian lunar calendar). Hindu festival marking Lord Rama’s triumph over the wicked demon, Ravana. Effigies of Ravana are set alight and theatrical performances take place.
Elephanta Festival
February (dates vary). Held on Elephanta Island in Mumbai Harbor; celebrates live classical Indian dance and music.
Ganesh Chaturthi
August/September (depending on Indian lunar calendar). Happy festival celebrating the elephant-headed Hindu god, Ganesh. One of Mumbai’s biggest festivals; culminates in the auspicious immersion of Ganesh statues in the ocean.
Holi
February or March (depending on Indian lunar calendar). Hindu festival welcoming the onset of spring. People joyfully throw colored powder, so don’t wear good clothes. Bonfires lit on the evening before Holi symbolize the demise of the demon, Holika.
Kala Ghoda Festival
Spanning 10-14 days in February (dates vary). Theatrical, music, and dance performances as well as art exhibitions, literary talks, and delicious aromas wafting from the food stalls set up during this festival.
