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The month of January in India presents a vibrant picture of traditions, harvest festivals and national celebrations. As the new year begins, the country sees a confluence of cultural, spiritual and seasonal celebrations. From the warmth of Lohri to the patriotic fervor of Republic Day in Punjab, every week brings something unique. Let us know about those festivals and holidays that make January 2026 special.
New Year 01 January
The Gregorian New Year brings celebrations with gatherings, festivals and celebrations all over India. Although it is not an integral part of Indian tradition, it has become a widely celebrated occasion, especially in urban areas. Families greet each other, make resolutions, and cities sparkle with festive cheer. It marks the beginning of a month full of cultural richness.
Paush Putrada Ekadashi 05 January
This Hindu fast is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is observed by those who seek blessings from their ancestors for the birth of a child. Devotees do not eat grains and spend the entire day in prayer and devotion. The festival emphasizes faith, family and continuity of lineage, making it very important spiritually for many families.
Swami Vivekananda Jayanti 09 January
Swami Vivekananda’s birth anniversary is celebrated with great devotion, especially by the youth. His teachings on spirituality, nationalism and self-reliance inspire people even today. Schools, colleges and organizations organize lectures and cultural programs to honor his legacy.
Lohri 13th January
Lohri is a harvest festival celebrated in Punjab and Northern India. Families gather around bonfires, sing folk songs, and dance to the beats of drums. Traditional sweets like sesame seeds, jaggery and peanuts are distributed. Lohri marks the end of winter and the arrival of longer days, symbolizing warmth, prosperity and community spirit.
Makar Sankranti 14 January
Makar Sankranti is a harvest festival celebrated across India, marking the entry of the Sun into Capricorn. Celebrated with various traditions like kite flying in Gujarat, eating sesame and jaggery sweets in Maharashtra, and taking a holy bath in rivers in Uttar Pradesh, the festival brings together many customs and traditions. It symbolizes new beginnings, prosperity and gratitude for the harvest season.
Pongal 14-17 January
Pongal is a four-day harvest festival in Tamil Nadu dedicated to the Sun God. Families prepare “Pongal”, a traditional dish made of rice and milk and offer it to the gods. Every day has its own special rituals, ranging from animal worship to community celebrations. Pongal reflects the deep agricultural roots of Tamil culture and is a joyous expression of gratitude.
Magh Bihu 15 January
Magh Bihu, celebrated in Assam, marks the end of the harvest season. The community lights bonfires called “meji”, enjoy rice cakes, and participate in traditional games. It is a festival of prosperity, brotherhood and cultural pride. The warmth of Bihu celebrations brightens up family gatherings and brings them together on these unique nights of January.
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti 17 January
This Sikh festival is celebrated to commemorate the birth of the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh. The teachings of equality, courage and devotion of Guru Gobind Singh, known as the founder of Khalsa, are remembered. Special prayers, kirtan (devotional songs) and langar are organized in Gurudwaras (Sikh temples).
Paush Purnima 21 January
On the day of Paush Purnima, people take holy bath in rivers and do charity. Devotees believe that performing puja on this full moon day brings blessings and prosperity. Special pujas are performed in temples, and fairs are held in some areas. It is considered a spiritually important occasion in the Hindu calendar.
Republic Day 26 January
Republic Day is one of the most important national holidays of India, celebrated to commemorate the adoption of the Constitution in 1950. India’s military might and cultural diversity are showcased in a grand parade in New Delhi. Flag hoisting ceremonies are organized all over the country.
Basant Panchami 27 January
Basant Panchami, dedicated to Mother Saraswati, marks the arrival of spring season. Devotees wear yellow clothes and jewellery, perform puja, and celebrate knowledge and learning. In Punjab, kites are flown, while in Bengal, Saraswati Puja is performed in homes and communities. This festival is a mixture of devotion and joyous celebration.
