Events You Must Not Miss in October 2024

October is the month of festivities almost all over India. Beginning from the well-known Kali Puja, Diwali, and Muharram to the lesser known ones like the Marwar Festival, Samsara Himalaya Edition, and Vintage Car–Bike festival in Goa, there is much to rejoice about. Partake in the fervour of the celebrations all through this joyous month and take back a little more about this vast land of festivals.

1. Marwar festival

Considered one of the most awaited festivals in Rajasthan, the Marwar Festival is a cultural cauldron that reminisces about Rajasthan’s heroes from a bygone era. Over the years, this festival has attracted a large number of tourists from abroad.

Spreading over two days, the festival showcases many cultural events, including music and dance, and provides insights into the rural lifestyle of the land. So rest assured, you would be witnessing a melange of colours against the backdrop of the golden desert sand.

The performances during the festival usually take place either at the Umaid Bhawan Palace in Mandore, or at the Mehrangarh Fort.

When: 12–13 October 2019

Where: Jodhpur

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2. Durga Puja

One of the most vibrant Indian festivals, Durga Puja celebrates the homecoming of Goddess Durga. It is most popular in West Bengal, particularly Kolkata, and is widely celebrated in many other states as well. The preparations for it start well in advance, as exquisitely handcrafted and painted idols of Durga are prepared for the grand festivities.

Celebrated over five days, these festival witnesses huge theme-based and innovative pandals, chanting and prayers, enticing food stalls and interesting rituals like the ceremonial smearing of red vermillion powder by married women on each other. Then there is the highly enthusiastic procession on the last day when the idols are taken for immersion. With a pandal set up in almost every lane and the city brimming with colours and excitement, Kolkata is a great place to be in during Durga Puja.

When: 3 October 2019

Where: Kolkata, West Bengal

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3. Mysore Dusshera

While most parts of India witness the burning of Ravana effigies on Dussehra, Mysore observes Dussehra with a difference, celebrating it as a royal festival. It commemorates the killing of the demon Mahishasura by the Hindu Goddess Chamundeshwari. Beginning with a special puja by the royal family, the 10-day celebrations include cultural programs, elephant processions, parades, sports, food and film festivals, in the backdrop of the spectacularly decorated and illuminated Mysore Palace, The majestic procession carrying Goddess Chamundeshwari on the tenth day makes for a grand spectacle and attracts a large number of locals and tourists.

When: 8 October 2019

Where: Mysore, Karnataka