Festivals & Celebrations

India’s festival calendar reflects its diversity of religions, regions, and seasons. Here are a few major festivals celebrated across the country and in Indian communities worldwide, including at Gurukul’s Washington State campuses.

Diwali (दिवाली) — Festival of Lights

Celebrated in October or November, Diwali marks the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Homes are decorated with diyas (oil lamps) and rangoli patterns, and families share sweets and gifts.

Holi (होली) — Festival of Colors

Celebrated in March, Holi welcomes spring with colored powders, water play, music, and dance. It also celebrates the triumph of good over evil, commemorated the night before with the Holika bonfire.

Navratri & Dussehra

A nine-night festival honoring the goddess Durga, celebrated with dance (garba and dandiya raas) and culminating in Dussehra, which marks the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana.

Raksha Bandhan

A celebration of the bond between siblings, where sisters tie a decorative thread (rakhi) on their brothers’ wrists as a symbol of protection and love.

Regional and religious diversity

India is also home to Eid celebrations, Christmas, Vaisakhi, Pongal, Onam, and many more festivals — each with unique customs tied to region, religion, and season.

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