Khajuraho Dance Festival (Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh)

The thousand year old temples at Khajuraho, built by the Chandella Kings, are majestic structures sculpted in stone. Only 22 of these temples remain today, to bear testimony to the craftsmanship of Chandella builders. Every year in March, these splendid temples come alive during the week-long festival of classical dances.

Shivratri (All over India)

All over the country, Shivratri is observed as the night, when Lord Shiva danced the 'Tandav' - his cosmic dance. Fasts and prayers mark the day and devotees throng the temples. The major Shaivite temples at Varanasi, Kalahasti (Andhra Pradesh) and Chidambaram (Tamil Nadu) are noted for their special celebrations.

Shivratri Natyanjali Festival (Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu)

Shivratri is the occasion for a five day long festival of classical dance and music at Chidambaram. The magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, built a thousand years ago, provides a beautiful backdrop for the event.

Holi (All over North India)

In March (2nd march this year), during spring, comes Holi - the festival of colours. Celebrated all over North India, Holi is a time to make merry. People smear each other with coloured powder. Singing and dancing add to the gaiety of the occasion.

In Anandpur Sahib, Sikhs celebrate a special festival Hola Mohalla on the day after Holi. The display of ancient martial arts and mock battles, are part of this unique Sikh festival. The Holi celebrations in Mathura and the small towns of Braj Bhoomi - the land of Sri Krishna, are spectacular. The Rang Gulal Festival is celebrated for over a week with exuberant processions, songs and music. Especially famous is the Lathmaar Holi of Barsana and Nandgaon.

Elephant Festival (Jaipur, Rajasthan)

A festival where elephants are the centre of attraction. The festival begins with a procession of elephants, camels and horses, followed by lively folk dancers. Elephant races, elephant-polo matches and a most interesting tug of war between elephants and men, are all part of this spectacular event.

Hoysala Mahotsava (Belur-Halebid, Karnataka)

The dance festival held at Belur and Halebid is a magnificent event. The splendid Hoysala temples with their sculptural extravaganza, make the perfect venue for this cultural feast.

Pataliputra Mahotsava (Patna, Bihar)

Patna, an ancient city with a glorious past, celebrates its rich heritage with this lively festival.

Jhansi Festival (Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh)

This week-long annual event is a display of the arts, crafts and culture of a splended city - Jhansi. The cultural programmes include folk songs, dances, mushairas and ghazals.

Good Friday (All over India)

Good Friday is observed by Christians nationwide with special services in the churches.

Ellora Festival (Aurangabad, Maharashtra)

The magnificent rock-cut caves at Ellora- 34 in number, were excavated between 600 and 1000 A.D. They include Buddhist, Hindu and Jain caves. Every March, a festival of dance and music is organised here with the caves forming a splendid backdrop.