Calendar Of 2024 India

As we approach the end of 2023, it’s time to start planning for the upcoming year. For many of us in India, this means looking forward to the festivals and events that will take place in 2024. From religious celebrations to cultural events, there’s always something happening in India. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the calendar of 2024 India and what you can expect from the year ahead.

Important Dates in the Calendar of 2024 India

The calendar of 2024 India is packed with festivals and events, some of which are celebrated throughout the country and others that are specific to certain regions. Here are some of the most important dates to keep in mind:

January 14: Makar Sankranti

Makar Sankranti marks the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makar Rashi). It’s a major harvest festival that is celebrated across India with kite flying, feasting, and bonfires.

February 21: Maha Shivratri

Maha Shivratri is a Hindu festival that celebrates the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It’s a day of fasting, prayer, and meditation for many Hindus.

March 21: Holi

Holi is a colorful festival that celebrates the arrival of spring. It’s known for its vibrant colors, water fights, and sweet treats.

April 14: Baisakhi

Baisakhi is a major festival in the Sikh religion that celebrates the founding of the Khalsa by Guru Gobind Singh. It’s also the beginning of the Punjabi new year.

August 12: Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha is a Muslim festival that honors the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. It’s a day of feasting and prayer for many Muslims in India.

October 14: Dussehra

Dussehra marks the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana. It’s celebrated with the burning of effigies of Ravana and fireworks.

November 2: Diwali

Diwali is one of the biggest festivals in India and is known as the festival of lights. It celebrates the victory of good over evil and is marked with the lighting of diyas (lamps), fireworks, and feasting.

What to Expect from the Festivals and Events in 2024

Each festival and event in the calendar of 2024 India has its own unique traditions and customs. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect from some of the biggest celebrations:

Makar Sankranti

Makar Sankranti is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India. In some regions, people take a dip in holy rivers to wash away their sins, while in others they fly kites and make special sweets like tilgul.

Holi

Holi is a festival of colors, but it’s also a time to forgive and forget. People smear each other with colored powder and water, and enjoy traditional sweets like gujiya and mathri.

Diwali

Diwali is a five-day festival that is celebrated with great pomp and show across India. People decorate their homes with lights and rangolis, exchange gifts and sweets, and light fireworks.

Question and Answer: Your Guide to the Calendar of 2024 India

Q: What is the significance of Makar Sankranti?

A: Makar Sankranti marks the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days. It’s a time of harvest and new beginnings, and is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India.

Q: What is the story behind Diwali?

A: Diwali celebrates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana. It’s also associated with the story of Lord Krishna defeating the demon Narakasura.

Q: What are some of the traditional sweets eaten during Holi?

A: Gujiya, mathri, and thandai are some of the traditional sweets enjoyed during Holi. They are often made with ingredients like milk, saffron, and nuts.

FAQs: What You Need to Know About the Calendar of 2024 India

Q: Are all of the festivals in the calendar of 2024 India celebrated throughout the country?

A: No, some festivals are specific to certain regions or religions. For example, Baisakhi is a major festival in the Sikh religion that is celebrated mainly in Punjab.

Q: What are some of the traditional decorations used during Diwali?

A: Rangolis, which are intricate designs made with colored powders, are a common decoration during Diwali. Lights and diyas are also used to create a festive atmosphere.

Q: What is the significance of Dussehra?

A: Dussehra marks the victory of good over evil, and is associated with the story of Lord Rama defeating the demon king Ravana. It’s celebrated with the burning of effigies of Ravana.

As you can see, the calendar of 2024 India is jam-packed with festivals and events that offer a glimpse into the rich cultural and religious traditions of the country. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there’s always something to look forward to in India.