Spring’s hidden celebrations: Unusual Indian festivals that welcome the season

Spring in India is a season of vibrancy, renewal, and cultural richness. While most people are familiar with Holi, the festival of colors, India is home to several lesser-known but equally fascinating spring celebrations. These unique festivals showcase the country’s diverse traditions, blending mythology, nature, and community spirit. Here are some unusual spring festivals celebrated across India.

1. Gangaur – Rajasthan

This is a beautiful and elaborate festival celebrated in Rajasthan, particularly by women who pray for the well-being of their husbands or future partners. It involves decorating clay idols of Goddess Gauri, taking them out in grand processions, and observing fasting rituals. The festival, lasting over two weeks, marks the arrival of spring and is deeply rooted in Rajasthani culture.

2. Moatsu Festival – Nagaland

In this northeastern State, the Ao Naga tribe celebrates Moatsu in May to welcome spring and a new agricultural cycle. Folk dances, bonfires, feasts, and traditional games mark this vibrant festival. It symbolises the completion of the hard work of clearing fields and preparing for the sowing season, making it a time of joy and community bonding.

3. Sarhul – Jharkhand

Sarhul is a tribal spring festival celebrated by indigenous communities in Jharkhand. It marks the worship of nature, particularly the Sal tree, which is considered sacred. Rituals include offering flowers, dancing, singing, and enjoying special dishes made from newly harvested crops. The festival signifies gratitude towards nature and the arrival of new life. 

4. Attuvela Mahotsavam – Kerala

Unlike other spring festivals, Attuvela Mahotsavam in Kerala is a stunning water carnival held at the Elankavu Bhagavathy Temple. The highlight is the grand procession of beautifully illuminated floating temple structures on the river. Accompanied by traditional music and prayers, this festival is a mesmerising visual spectacle unique to Kerala’s cultural landscape.

5. Mewar Festival – Udaipur, Rajasthan

This is a dazzling spring celebration that coincides with Gangaur. The city comes alive with folk music, dance performances, processions, and fireworks. Women dress in vibrant traditional attire, and decorated idols of Goddess Gauri are immersed in the lake, symbolising the arrival of a new season.

These lesser-known spring festivals highlight the cultural diversity and deep-rooted traditions of India. From the grand processions of Rajasthan to the tribal rituals of Jharkhand, each festival brings a unique charm to the season of renewal and celebration!