Festivals of Karnataka
Karnataka is a state in the southern part of India with a large coastline on the western ghats. It is famous for its culturally-rich and diverse population. Ganesha Chaturthi is the most famous and widely-celebrated festival in this state. The festival is celebrated over a span of 10 days, it begins on the 4th day of the moon period and ends on the 14th day of the moon period in the month of August or September. Both in public and home spaces, clay idols of Lord Ganesha are kept and worshipped for ten straight days. Sweets like Modak is the staple of this festival. On the 11th day of this worship, ganesh idols are immersed in water bodies.
Another major festival of this state is Ugadi, celebrated with joy and enthusiasm. Families get together on this day and have a feast. They decorate their homes with mango leaves and flowers. Hampi Festival is another sidely celebrated occasion also known as Vijay Utsav. It marks the birth of the poet Purandaradasa who lived in Hampi. Other festivals of Karnataka include Gowri Festival, Karaga, Pattadakal dance festival, Kambala festival, Mysore Dasara, Makar Sakranti, Vairamudi festival, and many others. Every occasion is celebrated with people from all ethnicities coming together.
Dates of festivals that follow the lunar calendar can shift by a day depending on the moon and on official notifications. Please confirm with your state government or employer before planning.