India is a country of fairs and festivals, which occur all round the year. Here is a list of major cultural events to look forward to this February:
.jpg "Maha Kumbh Mela")
What : Maha Kumbh MelaWhen : January 14 to February 25, 2013
Where : Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh
Why :The Maha Kumbh Mela, a spiritual fair is quite popular in the form of the largest gathering in the whole world for religious purpose. During this ancient northern Indian festival, millions of Hindu holy men and devotees gather to preach their faith and beliefs of their religion. Not only Indians, it is visited by a large number of foreign too. Maha Kumbh Mela that takes place only once 12 years, this year it is taking place in Haridwar.
When : January 31 to February 3, 2013
Where : New Delhi
Why : This year it is going on in its 5th edition of the India Art Fair in Delhi and has brought together around 105 galleries from 24 countries showcasing works of around 1000 of the famous as well as young artists from India as well as the world. The Fair has a assorted program, which includes a 3- day Speaker Forum, art projects, performances, book launches, curated Walks and an art bookstore.
What : Surajkund Crafts MelaWhen : February 1-14, 2013
Where : Faridabad
Why : At the on-going Surajkund Crafts Mela which is in its 27th year, you can witness the finest of handloom, handicrafts, as well as regional Indian cuisine. More than 400 artisans and craftsmen from all over the country are showcasing their extraordinary works. It also includes of numerous cultural programs, and an amusement zone. Like every year where a state in the form theme is picked.This year, the theme is Kerala, a South Indian state.
When : February 7-10, 2013
Where : New Delhi
Why : Shekhawati Festival is the best time to visit the popular old painted havelis (mansions) of the Shekhawati region. This three-day festival is inclusive of jeep safaris, camel safaris, various kinds of competitions, organic farm visits, cultural programs and other entertainment activities. The main purpose of this festival is to attract more and more number of tourists to this region.
What : Goa Carnival
When : February 9-12, 2013
Where : Panaji, Margao, Vasco and Mapusa in Goa
Why :Started by the Portuguese rulers during the 18th century in the form of a local feast, the Goa Carnival, has now gained a lot of popularity as one of the main events of the state. At the time of the festival, the streets are filled with parades, music and dancers wearing masks. The festival concludes with the Red and Black Dance, a formal ball performed in Panaji with a color code of red and black.
When : February 9-12, 2013
Where : Panaji, Margao, Vasco and Mapusa in Goa
Why :Started by the Portuguese rulers during the 18th century in the form of a local feast, the Goa Carnival, has now gained a lot of popularity as one of the main events of the state. At the time of the festival, the streets are filled with parades, music and dancers wearing masks. The festival concludes with the Red and Black Dance, a formal ball performed in Panaji with a color code of red and black.
What : Taj Mahotsav
What : February 18-27, 2013
Where : Agra, Uttar Pradesh
Why :Every year, the Taj Mahotsav takes place in Shilpgram Agra, near the eastern entry gate of the Taj Mahal. The prime focus of the festival to promote arts- crafts, culture, and recreation of the Mughal times. It also features a huge procession of elephants, camels and drummers. You can even ride an elephant and enjoy camel rides too, kids can also play games and enjoy sumptuous dishes at the food festival. It is said that the venue is the place where the workers building Taj, used to live.
What :Pariyanampetta Pooram
What : February 19, 2013
Where : Palakkad,KeralaWhat : February 19, 2013
Why: The Pariyanampetta Pooram is celebrated on the last day of the seven- day festival at Pariyanampetta temple, Kattukulam, Palakkad district of Kerala. It includes a procession of 21 beautifully decorated elephants. This temple festival also features shadow puppetry in the evening and religious as well as folk arts.
When : February 20-26, 2013
Where : Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh
Why :The Khajuraho Dance Festival takes place in Chitragupta Temple and Vishwanatha Temple (dedicated to Lord Shiva), Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh against the mesmerizing backdrop of the world-famous Khajuraho erotic temples. At this festival started in 1975, one can witness classical dance forms from all over the country. The performances are done in the Western group of temples.
What : February 23-25, 2013
Where : Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Why :If you want to witness the vibrancy of the dessert then Jaisalmer Dessert Fesitval is the best place to be. Enjoy various interesting events like camel rides, beautifully dressed performers, camel races, polo matches, turban tying and moustache competition, acrobatic performances, puppeteers, and many more. Relish the food of the region.
Why :If you want to witness the vibrancy of the dessert then Jaisalmer Dessert Fesitval is the best place to be. Enjoy various interesting events like camel rides, beautifully dressed performers, camel races, polo matches, turban tying and moustache competition, acrobatic performances, puppeteers, and many more. Relish the food of the region.