March’s must-attend fests in India
Spring is the perfect time to explore some of India’s lively cultural and religious events. Village Square presents a list of 5 such celebrations that you must attend this March.
There’s more to March’s festivities in India than Holi. With the onset of spring, several other vibrant events are set to take place. This makes the month the perfect time to head out and explore the exciting cultural experiences that celebrations have in store for travellers and devotees alike. Village Square presents a list of some of India’s most lively festivals that you can be a part of this month.
Rangotsav
Mathura, Uttar Pradesh
7th-15th March
The Braj Holi celebrations are among the most popular in the country. Happening across Nandgaon, Barsana, Vrindavan and Mathura, the Rangotsav will comprise various events and celebrations that offer a unique experience unlike anywhere else.
The festivities begin with Lathmar Holi in Barsana, where women playfully chase men with sticks, while exciting celebrations such as Rangbhari Holi and Phoolon ki Holi take place at the Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan. Another notable day is the Huranga celebrations at Baldev’s Dauji Temple in Mathura.
Jorhat Horse Race
Jorhat, Assam
7th-9th March
With a history of over 140 years, the Jorhat Horse Race of Assam holds a rich legacy. Annually, ponies from across Assam participate in this event which lasts for three days at the Jorhat Gymkhana Club.
The club was built in 1876 and has been a venue for horse races since its inauguration. The event also features activities like car rallies and traditional sporting activities.
Shigmo Festival
Goa
15th-29th March
Shigmo festival, also known as the spring festival in Goa, is a major celebration of the Hindu community in the region. The festival, celebrated every year around March has two variations, Dhakto Shigmo and Vhadlo Shigmo.
The celebration is accompanied by fairs, parades and cultural programmes which attract tourists from all across the globe. Vibrant float parades depict scenes from mythological stories and local legends.
The festival, while celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Goa, promotes a sense of camaraderie in the community and provides local artisans and performers with an opportunity to showcase their talents to a wider audience.
Kavant Mela
Kavant, Gujarat
16th March 2025
The Kavant Mela is among the prominent tribal festivals of the northeastern part of Gujarat. The event is majorly a gathering of the Rathva community and features several cultural programmes, folk arts and local culinary delights.
At the fair, the tribal community meets to discuss matrimonial prospects, barter goods and strengthen social ties. A range of traditional dance, music and colourful attire of the locals can be witnessed at the mela which serves as a celebration of the rich heritage of Rathva culture.
Thirunakkara Arattu
Kottayam, Kerala
24th March
Among the most highly regarded temple festivals in Kerala is Thirunakkara Arattu, a grand annual festival held at Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple in the Kottayam district.
Scheduled over 10 days, this festival draws devotees and tourists in large numbers from all across the country. It concludes with the ceremonial Arattu, or holy bathing of the deity, Lord Mahadeva.
The major highlight of the festival is the Arattu procession, which features nine caparisoned elephants, adorned in decorations, leading the procession to the temple tank for the ritual bath of the deity. During the festival, cultural activities also take place in the temple courtyard as folk arts like Mayilattom, Velakali and Kathakali are performed.
Also read: Looking for natural Holi colours? You will find them here
The lead image at the top shows the vibrant Braj Holi celebrations. (Photo Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons)
