Haryana, a culturally rich state in northern India, celebrates several vibrant cultural festivals that reflect its deep-rooted traditions, agrarian lifestyle, folk arts, and spiritual heritage. Here are some of the major cultural festivals of Haryana:
1. Surajkund Mela
- When: February (1st to 15th annually)
- Where: Surajkund, Faridabad
- Why it’s special: One of the largest international craft fairs in the world, it showcases the diverse handicrafts, handlooms, cuisines, and cultural performances from across India and other participating countries. Each year, a particular Indian state or country is the theme.
2. Baisakhi
- When: Mid-April
- Why it’s special: Marking the harvest of Rabi crops, Baisakhi is celebrated with great fervor by farmers. Traditional folk dances like Giddha and Bhangra are performed, and community feasts and fairs are held.
3. Teej Festival
- When: July–August (Sawan month)
- Why it’s special: A monsoon festival celebrated by women, especially newlyweds. Women dress in green, apply mehndi (henna), and enjoy swings hung from trees. Traditional songs and dances are a major attraction.
4. Gugga Naumi
- When: During Bhadrapada (August–September)
- Why it’s special: Dedicated to Gugga Pir, a folk deity revered by both Hindus and Muslims. Devotees perform rituals to protect against snake bites. The Gugga dance and folk singing add to the rural celebration.
5. Holi (Dulandi Holi in Haryana)
- When: March
- Why it’s special: Known as Dulandi Holi, it is a time of color, music, and playful mischief. In Haryana, special customs like Bhabhi-Dewar Holi (sister-in-law vs. brother-in-law) are celebrated with humor and camaraderie.
6. Diwali
- When: October–November
- Why it’s special: As in the rest of India, Diwali is celebrated with lights, fireworks, sweets, and community gatherings. Haryana’s villages and towns light up in traditional style, with homes adorned in rangoli and diyas.
7. Kartika Fair
- When: Kartik Purnima (October–November)
- Where: Pehowa and Kurukshetra
- Why it’s special: Pilgrims gather to take a holy dip in sacred tanks. Cultural programs, religious discourses, and crafts fairs take place in the historic cities associated with the Mahabharata.
8. Pinjore Heritage Festival
- When: December
- Where: Pinjore Gardens, Panchkula
- Why it’s special: Celebrates Haryana’s heritage with classical dance, music, crafts, and cuisine in the stunning 17th-century Mughal garden setting.
9. Mango Mela (Mango Festival)
- When: July
- Where: Pinjore Gardens
- Why it’s special: Celebrates the king of fruits—mangoes—with exhibitions, competitions, and cultural programs. A major attraction for tourists and horticulture lovers.