Festival Updates – What’s Happening Across India’s Biggest Celebrations

India’s festival calendar is packed, and staying on top of dates, rituals and practical tips can be a hassle. Here’s a quick rundown of the key celebrations coming up, plus easy ideas to make them greener and smoother.

Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 – Schedule, Muhurat and Eco‑Friendly Ideas

Ganesh Chaturthi starts on Wednesday, August 27 2025 and runs for ten days, ending with Visarjan on Saturday, September 6. The main madhyahna puja is on the first day, followed by daily aarti and offerings. If you’re planning a public pandal, check your city’s official muhurat – most metros release timings a week before.

Going green is easier than you think. Clay (shadu mati) idols soaked in plant‑based colors break down faster than plaster. Several neighborhoods in Ghaziabad already ran kids’ workshops where youngsters crafted their own clay Ganesha. You can join a local group or simply make a small homemade idol and melt it in a bucket of water instead of tossing it in rivers.

Transportation can get crazy around the city. Aim for early morning visits to avoid traffic and keep an eye on the Yamuna level – it often stays above the evacuation mark during the festival. If you’re staying near a major water body, look for artificial ponds set up for immersion; they keep the water clean and save you a long drive.

Raksha Bandhan 2025 – Shubh Muhurat, Pooja Thali Essentials and Simple Tips

Raksha Bandhan falls on August 9 2025. The most auspicious muhurat for tying the Rakhi is between 11:59 AM and 12:53 PM, but the broader window runs from 5:47 AM to 1:24 PM. Mark it on your phone so you don’t miss the perfect moment.

A typical pooja thali includes a small plate, a coconut, sweets like ladoo or barfi, turmeric, vermilion, a diya and incense. Keep the thali tidy – a cluttered plate can make the ceremony feel rushed. If you’re sending a virtual Rakhi, a quick video of the thali setup still feels personal.

Travel can be a nightmare on the day, especially in metro cities. Plan to meet at a neutral spot like a park or a family member’s home that’s easy to reach by public transport. And don’t forget to stay hydrated – the summer heat can hit hard even in early August.

Beyond these two big events, keep an eye on regional festivals like Onam in Kerala and Navratri in Gujarat. Each comes with its own set of dates and customs, so a quick search a week before can save you from missing out.

Finally, tech can be your friend. Set reminders for key dates, download official muhurat apps from state tourism boards, and follow local news for any weather alerts that might affect travel or public gatherings.

That’s the gist of what’s coming up. Grab your calendar, pick a couple of festivals to celebrate, and enjoy the colors, food and community that make Indian festivals special.

Saraswati Puja 2025: Celebrating Vasant Panchami with Heartfelt Wishes and Messages

2.02.2025 By: Aarav Bhatnagar

Vasant Panchami, celebrated on February 2, 2025, marks the start of spring and honors Goddess Saraswati, symbolizing knowledge and arts. This day is embraced with gatherings and rituals as devotees seek her blessings for wisdom, creativity, and prosperity. Spread the spirit with wishes and joyful messages for students and teachers, emphasizing learning and growth.