Festivals and Events in India in September 2017

Even as you gear up for the big festivals like Navratri, Dussehra and Diwali, here are some fascinating festivals and events taking place in September 2017 across India that might inspire you to travel.

1. Ramnagar Ramlila, Varanasi

The Ramnagar Ramlila is the world’s oldest running rendition of the Ramayana performed in Ramnangar, right across the ghats of Ganga in Varanasi. The event was first commissioned by the reigning Kashi Naresh (or king of Varanasi) around 1830, and has since become an annual affair. This extravagant celebration of our mythological history lasts 31 days as opposed to the usual 10-day events seen in the rest of the country. The entire town serves as the stage for this month-long fiesta. If you want a look up close at the life and times of Lord Rama, your quest ends at Ramnagar.

Dates: September 5-October 6, 2017

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2. Snake Boat Races, Kerala

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Vallam Kalli, also known as Snake Boat Races, is a traditional racing event performed using paddled war canoes. The event typically takes place around Onam. Of the several boat races taking place across Kerala, the Payippad and Aranmula boat races are the most popular and spectacular. The Payippad Boat Race has the distinction of being the oldest in Kerala, while the Aranmula Boat Race is an integral part of Onam celebrations. The annual event commemorates the installation of the local deity at the Subrahmanya Swamy Temple. While it may come across as a competitive sport, it is more of a tribute to the age-old tradition when offerings to the Aranmula Parthasarthy Temple were carried in similar snake boats. This year, the events are being held a day apart, so you stand a good chance of witnessing both.

Dates:

Payippad Boat Race: September 6, 2017

Aranmula Boat Race: September 8, 2017

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Read more: Free Things to Do in Kerala

3. Pune International Literary Festival, Pune

This annual literary festival is into its fifth year, and has already gained momentum as one the major literary events in the country. The three-day event being held at Yashwantrao Chavan Academy of Development Administration, Pune will see a confluence of famous creative personalities and acclaimed authors from India and abroad. The festival promises some interesting panel discussions, book launches and workshops. The theme for 2017 is Voice of Women, where raging issues of women empowerment and feminism are likely to take centre stage.

Dates: September 8-10, 2017

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Read more: Top 5 Hotels Near Pune Airport

4. Ladakh Festival, Leh

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This cultural extravaganza is all about showcasing the region’s unique cultural practices and traditions. The Ladakh Festival is an annual event that kicks off in Leh and extends to the villages. The large scale inauguration ceremony held in Leh is marked by a procession, where cultural troupes traverse through the main market area, culminating at the Polo Ground. You can look forward to singing, dancing, traditional music and people clad in traditional attire during the ceremony. Over the next six days, archery, polo, masked dances and cultural performances take place across the villages of Ladakh. There are some riveting musical concerts on the itinerary too.

Dates: September 20-26, 2017

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5. Ziro Festival of Music, Arunachal Pradesh

Founded by musicians Bobby Hano and Anup Kutty in 2012, the Ziro Festival of Music is an annual outdoor music festival organized in Arunachal Pradesh. The festival is a one-of-its-kind celebration of the amazingly eclectic independent music scene in India, and has earned repute and sizeable following over the past few years. While it started as a platform to promote regional musicians, today it draws participation from various national and international bands. Save the dates for an unusual mix of soulful music, exciting tunes and breathtaking locales.

Dates: September 28-October 1, 2017

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6. Abhaneri Festival, Rajasthan

The Abhaneri Festival is a two-day event held at the Abhaneri village, not far from Jaipur, with an aim to promote tourism in the region. The event is dotted with cultural performances from different parts of the country against the backdrop of Chand Baori and the ancient Harshat Mata Temple. The highlights of the event are Rajasthani folk performances that include songs, dances and puppet shows, along with a fair and camel cart rides.

Dates: September 22-23, 2017

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Which one of these are you going to check out this September? Book your tickets before it’s too late!