In July, India hosts several vibrant festivals that showcase its rich cultural diversity and traditions. Here are some of the best festivals celebrated across India in July:
- Hemis Festival (Ladakh): Held at the Hemis Monastery in Ladakh, Hemis Festival commemorates the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. The festival features colorful masked dances, music, and cultural performances.
- Rath Yatra (Puri, Odisha): Rath Yatra, also known as the Chariot Festival, is celebrated in Puri, Odisha, in honor of Lord Jagannath. During this festival, wooden chariots carrying the deities are pulled through the streets by devotees amidst chants and celebrations.
- Bonalu (Telangana): Bonalu is a traditional Hindu festival celebrated in Telangana, particularly in Hyderabad, to honor the Goddess Mahakali. During Bonalu, devotees offer prayers, food, and various rituals to the goddess.
- Champakulam Boat Race (Kerala): The Champakulam Boat Race is one of the oldest and most popular boat races in Kerala, held annually on the Pamba River. The race is part of the traditional festivities associated with the Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple.
- Urs Festival (Ajmer, Rajasthan): The Urs Festival commemorates the death anniversary of Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti in Ajmer, Rajasthan. The festival attracts thousands of pilgrims from different parts of the country who visit the shrine to seek blessings.
- Teej (Rajasthan): Teej is a traditional festival celebrated by women in Rajasthan, particularly in Jaipur and other parts of the state. Women dress in colorful attire, fast for the long life of their husbands, and participate in various cultural activities and rituals.
- Behdienkhlam (Meghalaya): Behdienkhlam is an important festival celebrated by the Pnar tribe of Meghalaya, particularly in the Jaintia Hills region. The festival is marked by vibrant processions, traditional dances, and rituals to seek blessings for a good harvest and prosperity.
These are just a few of the many festivals celebrated across India in July, each offering a unique glimpse into the country’s diverse cultural heritage.