Republic Day, a national festival of India, celebrates the adoption of the Indian Constitution on January 26, 1950. Grand parades and cultural performances mark this day, showcasing India’s military strength in New Delhi. The President of India presides over the celebrations, and citizens nationwide pay tribute to the Constitution’s framers, especially Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. The Republic Day parade is a grand spectacle featuring a display of military equipment, floats representing different Indian states, and traditional dances. Schoolchildren participate in various programs, and the entire country comes together to honour the values of democracy, equality, and freedom. It’s a time for patriotism and national pride.

Independence Day is one of the most essential festivals in India. Celebrated on August 15, it commemorates India’s freedom from British rule in 1947. The Prime Minister hoists the national flag at the Red Fort in New Delhi, followed by a national address. Across the country, schools, institutions, and communities organise flag-hoisting ceremonies and cultural programs. People remember the sacrifices of freedom fighters like Mahatma Gandhi, Bhagat Singh, and Subhash Chandra Bose. The streets are filled with patriotic songs; children often participate in marches or perform patriotic dances. The nation celebrates its sovereignty, reflecting on its progress and looking forward to a future of unity and development.

Gandhi Jayanti, celebrated on October 2, is one of the most significant Indian national festivals. It honours the birth of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, who led India’s non-violent struggle for independence. Observed as a national holiday, prayers mark Gandhi Jayanti, tributes at Gandhi’s memorial sites, and community service activities. Many schools and organisations hold events to remember his truth, non-violence, and equality teachings. Across the country, people participate in cleanliness drives inspired by Gandhi’s emphasis on sanitation. His philosophies inspire India and the world, making this day a critical moment to reflect on his enduring legacy.

Diwali, often called the Festival of Lights, is a widely celebrated national festival in India. Symbolising the victory of good over evil, Diwali is observed by lighting oil lamps, bursting firecrackers, and decorating homes with rangoli. People worship the goddess, Lakshmi, seeking blessings for prosperity and well-being. Families come together to exchange gifts and sweets and celebrate with grand feasts. Diwali also marks Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana, making it an integral part of Indian mythology. The festival fosters a spirit of unity, as people from all walks of life, regardless of religion, participate in the celebrations. Diwali brightens the entire nation with joy and harmony.

Holi, the festival of colours, holds a special place in India's list of national festivals. Celebrated to welcome spring and commemorate the victory of good over evil, Holi is a time for joy and togetherness. People throw coloured powders at each other, drench friends and family in water, and sing and dance in the streets. It’s a festival that breaks social barriers, encouraging community unity. The story of Holi is linked to the burning of Holika, symbolising the triumph of devotion and purity. Holi also serves as a reminder to let go of past grievances and start afresh, fostering bonds of friendship and love.

Dussehra is one of the most celebrated Indian national festivals in the country, symbolising the triumph of good over evil. It marks Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana and the end of the ten-day battle, as described in the epic Ramayana. Across India, Dussehra is observed by burning effigies of Ravana, symbolising the destruction of evil. Plays known as Ramlila, depicting Lord Rama’s journey, are performed in various cities. In some parts, like West Bengal, it coincides with the culmination of Durga Puja, where devotees bid farewell to the goddess. The festival serves as a reminder of righteousness and courage, urging people to follow the path of truth and justice.

Eid al-Fitr is a significant national festival list for Muslims across India. It marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, during which followers fast from sunrise to sunset. The day begins with a special prayer at mosques, followed by feasts and the exchange of gifts. It’s a time of forgiveness, generosity, and joy. Families celebrate with traditional dishes like biryani and sweets such as Sewaiyan. The festival promotes values of charity, with Muslims giving alms to the needy, known as Zakat al-Fitr. Eid al-Fitr fosters a spirit of unity and harmony, making it a cherished occasion for the entire community.

Christmas is celebrated on December 25, an essential list of national festivals in India, and it holds special significance for the Christian community. It marks the birth of Jesus Christ and is observed with much joy and devotion. Churches hold midnight masses, and homes are decorated with Christmas trees, lights, and nativity scenes. Exchanging gifts, singing carols, and preparing festive meals are integral to the celebration. Although a Christian festival, Christmas is celebrated by people from different faiths across India, reflecting the nation’s cultural diversity. The season brings a spirit of giving and peace as people come together to spread love and happiness.

Raksha Bandhan, a unique festival in the pictures of Indian national festivals, celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. On this day, sisters tie a sacred thread, a rakhi, around their brothers’ wrists, symbolising protection. In return, brothers vow to safeguard their sisters and often give them gifts. Raksha Bandhan transcends biological relations and celebrates sibling-like bonds among friends and neighbours. The festival is rooted in Indian mythology, with stories of divine siblings like Krishna and Draupadi. Raksha Bandhan strengthens family bonds and fosters a sense of love, care, and respect, making it a cherished day in the Indian cultural calendar.

Makar Sankranti is one of the oldest harvest festivals on the list of national festivals in India, celebrated in mid-January. It marks the sun's transition into Capricorn (Makara) and is considered highly auspicious. People in different parts of India celebrate this festival with unique customs, such as kite flying in Gujarat, Pongal in Tamil Nadu, and Lohri in Punjab. Devotees take holy dips in rivers like the Ganges and pray to the Sun God. Traditional dishes like tilgul (made of sesame and jaggery) are prepared and shared. The festival also signifies the beginning of longer days, symbolising light, knowledge, and prosperity.