Guide to Bangalore Local Festivals for 2024 and 2025

Are you curious about the vibrant Bangalore Local Festivals? If so, you’ve come to the right place! In this blog, we’ll explore a variety of festivals that highlight the unique traditions, customs, and values of different communities across the city.

Each festival tells a story, offering insights into the diverse practices that unite people in celebration and joy. This blog will provide a comprehensive guide to the colourful festivities that make Bangalore truly special. Get ready to immerse yourself in the spirit of celebration!

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Bangalore Local Festivals

January

Makara Sankranti (Kite Festival)

Dates: 14 January 2025

The Kite Festival, celebrated during Makara Sankranti around mid-January, is one of the most anticipated events in Bangalore. It marks the harvest season with joyful festivities. This vibrant celebration transforms the city into a kaleidoscope of colours as families and friends gather to fly kites, filling the sky with a spectacular display of various shapes and sizes. Popular areas such as Jayanagar and Basavanagudi come alive with laughter and excitement as people of all ages compete to see whose kite soars the highest.

One of the unique phenomena during Sankranti occurs at the Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple in Gavipuram. Here, sunlight streams through the temple’s entrance and illuminates the deity’s idol, a breathtaking sight that draws many devotees and tourists alike. This natural spectacle and the festive kite-flying atmosphere make Sankranti an enchanting experience in Bangalore.

As the skies are adorned with colourful kites, the festival fosters a spirit of camaraderie and celebration among the people. The Kite Festival is not just a fun event; it also represents the rich cultural heritage of Karnataka, bringing communities together to rejoice in the season’s bounties.

February

Bengaluru International Film Festival (BIFFES)

Dates: To be announced for 2025
Venue:

The Bengaluru International Film Festival (BIFFES) is one of the most prestigious cultural events in the city, celebrated annually to honour the art of cinema. Since its inception in 2006, BIFFES has grown into a significant platform for filmmakers, critics, and cinema lovers from across the globe. The festival showcases an impressive selection of films, ranging from mainstream to independent, spanning multiple genres and languages. This diverse curation includes international films, Indian regional cinema, and Kannada films, promoting cross-cultural cinematic exchange.

BIFFES also hosts a variety of panel discussions, workshops, and masterclasses led by renowned filmmakers, actors, and industry professionals. These sessions provide invaluable insights into the craft of filmmaking, storytelling, and the latest trends in cinema. In addition, the festival often features competitive sections, where films are judged by an international jury, adding to the excitement.

BIFFES’s commitment to nurturing the local Kannada film industry while embracing global cinema makes it unique. Screenings are held in various theatres across Bangalore, making them accessible to a wide audience. For cinephiles, BIFFES offers an immersive experience that celebrates the art of filmmaking and fosters a deep appreciation for cinema’s cultural impact.

Neralu – The Bengaluru Tree Festival

Dates: To be announced for 2025
Venue:

Neralu – The Bengaluru Tree Festival celebrates the city’s deep-rooted love for trees and greenery. Held annually, this festival aims to raise awareness about the importance of trees in urban landscapes and promote environmental conservation. Neralu offers many activities that engage citizens, families, and nature enthusiasts alike.

One of the festival’s highlights is the heritage walk, which takes participants through some of Bangalore’s oldest neighbourhoods. Participants can discover fascinating stories behind historical trees and learn about their ecological significance. In addition to these walks, Neralu features a range of workshops that focus on tree planting, sustainable gardening, and the benefits of urban forestry.

The festival also includes insightful talks by environmentalists, ecologists, and tree activists who share their knowledge and passion for nature. Performances by local artists add a cultural touch, making the festival a lively gathering.

Through Neralu, participants not only celebrate the beauty of trees but also become advocates for environmental protection. The festival fosters a sense of community, encouraging residents to appreciate the greenery around them and take actionable steps towards a more sustainable future for Bangalore.

Maha Shivrathri

Dates: 26 February 2025

Maha Shivrathri is one of the most significant Hindu festivals, celebrated annually in honour of Lord Shiva, the destroyer and transformer in the Hindu trinity. This festival typically falls in February or March, on the 14th night of the dark fortnight of Phalguna. In Bangalore, the celebrations are marked with great enthusiasm and devotion, attracting thousands of devotees to various Shiva temples across the city.

On this auspicious night, devotees observe fasting and engage in night-long vigils, chanting prayers and mantras for Lord Shiva. Temples like the Bull Temple and Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple are beautifully decorated with flowers, lights, and lamps, creating a serene and divine atmosphere. Special rituals and ceremonies, including the Abhishekam (ritual bathing of the Shiva Lingam), are performed to seek blessings for health, prosperity, and peace.

In addition to spiritual activities, Maha Shivrathri fosters a sense of community as families and friends gather to celebrate. The festival emphasises the values of devotion, self-discipline, and spiritual awakening, making it a cherished occasion for millions of devotees. For many, participating in the Maha Shivratri celebrations is a profound experience that deepens their connection with Lord Shiva and their spiritual beliefs.

March

Ugadi

Dates: 30 March 2025

Ugadi is the traditional New Year festival celebrated by the people of Karnataka and other South Indian states like Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. The festival usually falls in late March or early April, marking the beginning of the Chaitra month in the Hindu lunar calendar. Ugadi symbolises the arrival of spring and is a time for new beginnings, as it heralds the end of winter and the onset of a fresh harvest season.

The celebration of Ugadi is steeped in cultural significance and rituals. Families often clean and decorate their homes with mango leaves to welcome prosperity and good fortune. Special prayers and rituals are performed to seek blessings for a prosperous year ahead. One of the festival’s highlights is the preparation of Ugadi Pachadi, a traditional dish made from fresh raw mango, jaggery, tamarind, and neem leaves, symbolising the various life experiences—sweet, sour, bitter, and tangy. This unique dish reminds everyone that life is a blend of different emotions.

Cultural programs, including music, dance, and folk performances, unite communities and celebrate Karnataka’s rich heritage. Ugadi is not just a time for festivities; it also fosters a sense of renewal, hope, and togetherness among families and communities.

Eid al-Fitr

Dates: 31 March 2025

Eid, celebrated by millions worldwide, is a significant Islamic festival that marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. Known as Eid al-Fitr, this joyous occasion falls on the first day of the Islamic month of Shawwal, following the sighting of the new moon. The festival holds deep spiritual significance, symbolising gratitude to Allah for the strength and patience shown during Ramadan.

Eid is a time of celebration, unity, and giving. Muslims gather for the special Eid prayer at mosques or open fields on this day, dressed in their finest attire. The prayer follows a sermon emphasising the importance of compassion, charity, and community. One of the central traditions of Eid is the giving of Zakat al-Fitr, a form of almsgiving intended to ensure that everyone, especially the less fortunate, can participate in the celebrations.

Festivities include family gatherings, feasting, and gift exchange, with special dishes prepared to mark the occasion. Sweets and delicacies, such as sheer khurma and baklava, are commonly shared among family and friends. Overall, Eid fosters a sense of togetherness, reinforcing bonds within families and communities while promoting values of kindness and generosity.

April

Karaga Festival

Dates: To be announced for 2025
Venue: Dharmaraya Swamy Temple

The Karaga Festival is one of Bangalore‘s oldest and most revered festivals, celebrated enthusiastically at the Dharmaraya Swamy Temple in the city’s centre. This unique Hindu festival pays homage to Draupadi, the central character of the Mahabharata, who is worshipped as an incarnation of Adi Shakti (the primordial energy). The festival’s origins are deeply rooted in the city’s Tamil-speaking Thigala community, which has kept the traditions alive for centuries.

The festival’s highlight is the grand procession, where a priest dressed as a woman carries a decorated earthen pot, known as the Karaga, symbolising Draupadi. The pot is balanced on his head as he walks barefoot through the streets, followed by a large crowd of devotees and performers. The priest’s attire and carrying the Karaga represent the power and strength of the divine feminine energy.

The Karaga procession takes place at midnight and covers several areas around the Dharmaraya Swamy Temple, creating an electrifying atmosphere with music, dance, and traditional rituals. For many Bangaloreans, the Karaga Festival is not just a religious event but a deep cultural celebration that reflects the city’s history and devotion.

Ulsoor Palaki Utsava/Jathre

Dates: To be announced for 2025
Venue: Ulsoor or Halasuru

Ulsoor Palaki Jathre is a lively local temple festival celebrated in the heart of Ulsoor. It embodies the vibrant traditions of the community and draws locals and visitors, offering rich cultural experiences that reflect the area’s heritage. The festival typically includes grand processions featuring beautifully adorned deities accompanied by traditional music and dance, creating an atmosphere of joy and reverence.

As part of the celebrations, the streets come alive with colourful decorations and bustling street fairs. Stalls line the roads, offering a delightful array of local delicacies, snacks, and handmade crafts, allowing attendees to immerse themselves in the flavours and craftsmanship of the region.

Cultural performances highlight the Jathre, showcasing local artists and their talents through traditional dance, music, and drama. These performances entertain, preserve, and promote Ulsoor’s rich cultural heritage.

The Ulsoor Palaki Jathre is a unique opportunity to experience the warmth and camaraderie of the local community, making it a cherished event on the calendar. For anyone seeking to connect with Bangalore’s cultural roots, this festival offers an authentic glimpse into the vibrant traditions that define the city.

Sri Rama Navami

Dates: 6 April 2025

Sri Rama Navami is a significant Hindu festival celebrated annually to honour the birth of Lord Rama, the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu. This festival falls on the ninth day of Chaitra month, usually in March or April, and marks the culmination of the nine-day festival of Chaitra Navaratri. Sri Rama Navami holds immense cultural and spiritual importance for devotees, symbolising the victory of good over evil.

Various rituals and festivities characterise the celebration of Sri Rama Navami. Temples dedicated to Lord Rama are beautifully adorned, and devotees gather to offer prayers and perform special ceremonies, including Homa (fire rituals) and Abhishekam (ritual bathing of the deity). Recitations of the Ramayana, the epic that narrates the life and adventures of Lord Rama, are commonly held, drawing large crowds who seek to immerse themselves in the teachings of dharma and righteousness.

In addition to religious observances, Sri Rama Navami fosters a sense of community and togetherness, with families coming together to celebrate. The festival is also marked by processions and cultural performances that depict the life of Lord Rama, reinforcing the values of honour, courage, and devotion. For many, Sri Rama Navami is a time for reflection and spiritual renewal.

May

Kadalekai Parishe (Groundnut Fair)

Dates: To be announced for 2025
Venue: Dodda Ganesha Temple in Basavanagudi or Kadu Malleshwara Temple in Malleshwaram

The Groundnut Fair, locally known as Kadalekai Parishe, is one of Bangalore’s most cherished traditional events, held annually in November. It celebrates the first groundnut harvest near the iconic Bull Temple in Basavanagudi. This festival has deep historical roots and initially started to offer thanks to the deity for protecting the crops. The Bull Temple’s towering statue of Nandi is adorned, and thousands of farmers from nearby regions come to offer their fresh groundnuts as a gesture of gratitude.

The fair is a vibrant event where the streets around the temple transform into bustling markets. Farmers set up stalls to sell freshly harvested groundnuts, while locals and visitors flock to buy them. The fair is about the harvest and features local handicrafts, snacks, and cultural performances, making it a colourful community celebration.

In recent years, a smaller version of Kadlekai Parishe has also begun to take place at Kadu Malleshwara Temple in Malleshwaram, reflecting the growing popularity and demand for this traditional event. Kadalekai Parishe is a joyful celebration of Bangalore’s agricultural roots, providing a glimpse into the city’s deep connection with its traditions and farmers.

August

Vara Mahalakshmi

Dates: 8 August 2025

Vara Mahalakshmi is a revered Hindu festival celebrated predominantly in the southern states of India, particularly Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. This auspicious occasion is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and abundance. It falls on the Friday before the full moon day in Shravana, typically in July or August.

The festival is significant for married women, who observe rituals to seek the goddess’s blessings for the well-being and prosperity of their families. Today, women adorn their homes with colourful kolams (decorative designs made with rice flour) and prepare a special altar for the goddess, usually with fresh flowers, fruits, and various offerings.

The highlight of Vara Mahalakshmi is the pooja (worship), during which women perform rituals, recite prayers, and sing devotional songs dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi. Preparing various traditional dishes, including sweet rice, pulses, and other delicacies offered to the goddess, is also customary.

The festival fosters community, with women often gathering to celebrate, share festive meals, and exchange blessings. Vara Mahalakshmi is a time for reflection, gratitude, and celebrating familial bonds.

Ganesha Chaturthi

Dates: 27 August 2025

Ganesha Chaturthi is a vibrant and widely celebrated festival in India. It honours Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity revered as the remover of obstacles and the harbinger of good fortune. This festival typically falls in August or September, on the fourth day of the Hindu lunar month of Bhadrapada. It holds immense significance for devotees, showcasing new beginnings and pursuing knowledge and prosperity.

The festivities begin with installing Ganesha idols in homes and public places. Devotees adorn the idols with flowers, vibrant decorations, and lights, creating a festive atmosphere. Rituals include chanting prayers, performing aarti, and offering traditional sweets, particularly modaks, believed to be Lord Ganesha’s favourite delicacy.

Public celebrations often feature large processions, cultural performances, and community gatherings, fostering a sense of unity and joy among participants. The festival culminates with the Visarjan, where the idols are immersed in water bodies, indicating Ganesha’s return to his celestial abode and removing devotees’ troubles and obstacles.

Ganesha Chaturthi is not just a religious occasion but a grand cultural event that brings communities together. It celebrates faith, creativity, and the spirit of togetherness in a colourful display of devotion.

September

Bengaluru Habba

Dates: 10 October to 10 November 2024

Bengaluru Habba is a vibrant city-wide cultural festival celebrating Bangalore‘s rich diversity and cosmopolitan spirit. Held annually, this festival serves as a dynamic platform for artists, musicians, dancers, and performers from various communities to showcase their talents and share their cultural heritage with the public.

The festival features diverse performances, including traditional and contemporary music, classical and folk dance, theatre productions, and art exhibitions. This eclectic mix entertains and educates audiences about the myriad cultures that thrive in Bangalore. Attendees can enjoy live performances in various venues across the city, creating an immersive experience that highlights the richness of local and international art forms.

In addition to the performances, Bengaluru Habba also offers a delectable food experience, with stalls featuring cuisines from different regions of India and worldwide. This culinary journey allows visitors to indulge in the flavours of diverse communities, further enhancing the festival’s inclusive atmosphere.

Bengaluru Habba is more than just a cultural event; it fosters community and unity among the city’s residents and celebrates the artistic spirit that defines Bangalore. For locals and visitors, it is an unmissable experience that captures the essence of the city’s vibrant culture.

October

Dasara/ Vijayadashmi

Dates: 2 October 2025

Dasara, also known as Vijayadashami, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated with great zeal and devotion across India, particularly in Karnataka. The festival typically falls in September or October, marking the end of Navaratri, a nine-night celebration dedicated to the goddess Durga. Dasara emphasises the victory of good over evil, commemorating the triumph of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana, as depicted in the epic Ramayana.

Various rituals and cultural activities mark the festival. In many regions, elaborate processions and dramas are held, showcasing the story of Rama’s battle with Ravana. In Karnataka, particularly in Mysore, the grand Dasara procession features beautifully adorned elephants, vibrant floats, and cultural performances, drawing thousands of visitors.

Devotees also worship the goddess Durga and seek her blessings for strength and prosperity. Golu, a decorative display of dolls and figurines, depicts various household themes, adding a festive charm to the celebrations.

Dasara culminates on the tenth day, Vijayadashami, which signifies the restoration of dharma and righteousness. It is a time for new beginnings, with many people choosing this auspicious day to start new ventures, making Dasara a festival of hope and renewal.

Ranga Shankara Theatre Festival

Dates: 28 October 2024
Venue: Ranga Shankara, 36/2, 8th Cross Rd, R K Colony, 2nd Phase, J. P. Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560078

The Ranga Shankara Theatre Festival is a vibrant annual celebration of the performing arts held at the renowned Ranga Shankara Theatre in Bangalore. Established in 2004, this festival has become a significant event for theatre enthusiasts, showcasing a rich array of plays in multiple languages, including Kannada, Hindi, English, and Tamil.

The festival features performances from established and emerging theatre groups each year, providing a platform for local talent to shine. Audiences can experience various theatrical expressions, from classic dramas to contemporary pieces, each offering a unique perspective on various themes and narratives.

In addition to performances, the festival hosts workshops led by acclaimed theatre practitioners. These workshops cover various aspects of theatre production, acting techniques, and scriptwriting, making them educational experiences for aspiring actors and playwrights.

Ranga Shankara Theatre Festival fosters a sense of community among artists and audiences, encouraging dialogue about the power of theatre in society. It enriches Bangalore‘s cultural landscape and strengthens its reputation as a hub for performing arts. This festival is a must-attend event for theatre lovers that captures the essence of creativity and collaboration in the theatre world.

November

Kannada Rajyothsava

Dates: 1 November 2024

Kannada Rajyotsava, celebrated on November 1st every year, marks the formation of the Karnataka state in India. This day holds great significance for Kannadigas, commemorating the unification of various Kannada-speaking regions into a single state in 1956. The festival fosters a sense of pride and unity among the people of Karnataka, highlighting their rich culture, language, and heritage.

On Kannada Rajyotsava, various cultural events and activities occur across the state. Schools, colleges, and communities organise programs that showcase traditional dance, music, and art, celebrating Karnataka’s vibrant culture. The day often begins with hoisting the Kannada flag and reciting poems in Kannada, emphasising the language’s importance and literary heritage.

Government buildings are adorned with flowers and lights, and the occasion is marked by speeches from political leaders emphasising the state’s achievements and the contributions of prominent Kannadigas.

Festivals and fairs also take place, offering a platform for local artisans to showcase their crafts. Kannada Rajyotsava is a celebration, reflection, and renewed commitment to Karnataka’s growth and development, uniting its people in a shared identity and cultural pride.

Deepavali

Dates: 31 October to 2 November 2024

Deepavali, also known as Diwali, is one of India’s most significant and widely celebrated festivals. It symbolises the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Deepavali spans five days, typically observed in October or November, with the third day being the most important. The festival holds various meanings across different regions. Still, it is commonly associated with the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana, as narrated in the epic Ramayana.

During Deepavali, homes and public spaces are adorned with diyas (oil lamps), colourful rangoli designs, and festive decorations to welcome prosperity and joy. Families perform puja (worship) of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, seeking her blessings for abundance in the coming year.

The festival is also marked by exchanging sweets and gifts among family and friends, fostering community and togetherness. Fireworks illuminate the night sky, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.

In addition to its religious significance, Deepavali is a time for reflection, forgiveness, and renewal. It encourages individuals to dispel negativity and embrace positivity, making it a cherished occasion that brings people together in joy and harmony.

December

Bangalore Literature Festival

Dates: 14 and 15 December 2024
Venue: The Lalit Ashok, Kumara Krupa Road, High Grounds, Bengaluru

The Bangalore Literature Festival is essential for book lovers, drawing literary enthusiasts, authors, poets, and readers from across the country and beyond. Held annually in the city’s heart, this vibrant festival celebrates the written word and promotes a culture of reading and literary discourse.

The festival features a diverse lineup of authors and poets who engage in thought-provoking panel discussions on various topics, from contemporary issues to classic literature. Attendees can listen to their favourite authors discuss their works, share insights, and interact with fellow literature lovers.

In addition to panel discussions, the festival hosts workshops for aspiring writers, poets, and literary critics. These sessions focus on various aspects of writing, publishing, and storytelling techniques and provide valuable guidance to participants.

Book signings allow fans to connect with their favourite authors personally, making it a memorable experience. The festival creates a lively atmosphere of creativity and intellectual engagement, fostering a sense of community among literary enthusiasts. For anyone passionate about literature, the Bangalore Literature Festival is a must-attend event celebrating the power of storytelling and the joy of reading.

Closing Notes

As we wrap up our exploration of Bangalore‘s vibrant local festivals, it’s clear that these celebrations play a vital role in shaping the city’s rich cultural identity. Each festival reflects the diverse communities that call Bangalore home, bringing people together in joy, creativity, and tradition.

Participating in these festivities offers a unique opportunity to connect with the local culture and make lasting memories. So, embrace the spirit of celebration, engage with the community, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere that Bangalore’s festivals provide. Join in the festivities, and let the joy of these local celebrations enrich your experience in this dynamic city!

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