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There are various Indian Festivals in August which bring people together through traditions, prayers and celebrations.This month is filled with rituals, music, and gatherings that reflect India’s rich culture. People decorate their homes, prepare special foods and communities come alive with festive energy. Some events mark historical or seasonal changes, while others hold deep spiritual meaning. Families and friends join in, following customs passed down for generations. Every festival has a unique way of bringing joy and togetherness, making August a special time for many across the country.
Top 8 Indian Festivals In August
Here are ten major Indian Festivals in August, each celebrated with its own traditions and customs, bringing joy and harmony:
1. Raksha Bandhan
Photo: carrotmadman6 / Wikimedia Commons
Raksha Bandhan celebrates the special bond between siblings. Sisters tie a sacred thread (rakhi) on their brothers’ wrists as a symbol of love and protection. This festival highlights the deep emotional connection in Indian families, strengthening relationships beyond blood ties. It is a day of exchanging gifts, sharing festive sweets, and expressing gratitude. Though traditionally involving brothers and sisters, modern celebrations extend to cousins, friends, and even social causes where rakhis are tied to soldiers and community members.
Celebrated In: Across India
Main Attractions: Tying rakhis, exchanging gifts, festive meals
Must Have Experiences: Rakhi ceremony, blessings, special sweets like laddoos
2. Balarama Jayanti
Photo: Ilya Mauter / Wikimedia Commons
Balarama Jayanti honours the birth of Lord Balarama, who is known for his immense strength and association with agriculture. He is depicted with a plough, symbolising his role in farming and land cultivation. As one of the best Indian festivals in August, it highlights his contribution to rural prosperity and Krishna’s early life stories. Devotees reflect on his wisdom and teachings, emphasising balance and righteousness. The festival focuses on agricultural heritage, inspiring many farmers and devotees alike to seek his blessings for a good harvest and stability in life.
Celebrated In: Temples and households across India
Main Attractions: Special pujas, temple decorations, storytelling sessions
Must Have Experiences: Fasting, rituals, offering sweets and fruits, feeding cows
3. Independence Day
Photo: Pratap Public School, India / Wikimedia Commons
Independence Day marks India’s freedom from British rule in 1947, showing the country’s strength and determination. As one of the best Indian festivals in August, it reminds people of India’s journey and progress. Schools and offices hold discussions on national achievements, while TV channels show documentaries on the freedom movement on this day. Many also participate in social activities like blood donation and community service. This encourages a sense of duty towards the country. The day is a strong reminder of India’s fight for freedom and the responsibilities that come with it.
Celebrated In: Across India
Main Attractions: Flag hoisting, parades, cultural programmes
Must Have Experiences: National anthem, tributes to freedom fighters, patriotic events
4. Krishna Janmashtami
Photo: Nvvchar / Wikimedia Commons
Krishna Janmashtami marks the birth of Lord Krishna, known for his wisdom, strength, and teachings on righteousness. The festival brings devotees together to reflect on his life and seek his blessings. Special prayers and devotional activities are held throughout the day, with hymns and religious discourses creating a spiritual atmosphere. Butter, milk, and sweets were offered on this occasion, as these are Krishna’s favourites. Families and communities come together to celebrate, deepening their connection with his teachings on dharma and compassion. The festival serves as a reminder of his guidance on leading a balanced and righteous life.
Celebrated In: India, especially Mathura and Vrindavan
Main Attractions: Midnight celebrations, temple decorations, cultural performances
Must Have Experiences: Fasting, devotional singing, enactments of Krishna’s childhood
5. Varalakshmi Vrat
Photo: Kritzolina / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Varalakshmi Vrat is a revered occasion where married women seek blessings for their families’ well-being by honouring Goddess Lakshmi. The vrat is believed to bring prosperity and protect households from hardships. Women wake up early, take a ritual bath, and prepare offerings of fruits, sweets, and special dishes for the Goddess. Many follow customs passed down through generations, strengthening cultural bonds. The vrat is also an occasion for women to gift sarees, bangles, and other auspicious items. It symbolises goodwill and blessings for a harmonious and prosperous life.
Celebrated In: South India
Main Attractions: Special Lakshmi puja, fasting, sharing of prasad
Must Have Experiences: Kalash decoration, chanting of prayers, tying of sacred thread
6. Hartalika Teej
Photo: VJY / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Hartalika Teej is a special festival where women pray to Goddess Parvati for a happy and strong married life. It is believed that Parvati’s deep devotion and penance led to her union with Lord Shiva, making this day significant for marital blessings. Women form groups to offer prayers, sing devotional songs, and listen to stories of Parvati’s dedication. Applying henna is an important custom, symbolising love and prosperity. The festival is also marked by cultural gatherings, where women celebrate with folk dances and traditional rituals. This makes it a joyful and meaningful occasion.
Celebrated In: Northern and Western India
Main Attractions: Folk dances, storytelling sessions, festive clothing, group prayers
Must Have Experiences: Fasting, Shiva-Parvati worship, singing devotional songs
7. Onam
Photo: Praveen / Wikimedia Commons
Onam is a grand harvest festival, celebrating the legendary reign of King Mahabali. It symbolises prosperity and unity, with ten days of cultural festivities, artistic performances, and feasting. People decorate homes with detailed floral designs and wear traditional attire. The festival showcases Kerala’s rich traditions, with activities like boat races and theatrical performances. The spirit of Onam lies in its inclusive nature, as families and communities come together, making it one of the best Indian festivals in August.
Celebrated In: Kerala
Main Attractions: Traditional dance performances, grand feasts
Must Have Experiences: Floral decorations, Onam Sadya (banquet), folk art performances
8. Ganesh Chaturthi
Photo: Thejas Panarkandy / Wikimedia Commons
Ganesh Chaturthi is one of the famous Indian festivals in August dedicated to Lord Ganesha. He is said to be the remover of obstacles and harbinger of wisdom. The festival fosters creativity and devotion. Idols of Ganesha are artistically crafted and worshipped in homes and public spaces. People engage in prayers, community feasts, and processions. The festival also promotes environmental awareness, growing adoption of eco-friendly idols and sustainable celebrations. The final immersion ritual signifies the cycle of creation and dissolution, reminding devotees of life’s impermanence and renewal.
Celebrated In: Maharashtra, Karnataka, and across India
Main Attractions: Ganesha idols, community processions, devotional music
Must Have Experiences: Prayers, offering sweets, immersion of idols
Indian Festivals in August reflect deep cultural traditions, historical significance, and spiritual devotion. From grand celebrations to solemn rituals, each festival strengthens communal ties and preserves age-old customs. The diversity of events during this month showcases India’s rich heritage, uniting people across regions. For those looking to witness these festivals up close, plan with TripXL to explore India’s vibrant traditions.
Cover Photo: Ministry of Defence / Wikimedia Commons
