Festivals

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most significant festivals celebrated across India. It symbolises the victory of good over evil and reminds people of the importance of truth, courage and righteousness. In Hassan district, Dussehra is celebrated with devotion, cultural programmes and community gatherings. Homes, temples and public places are decorated with flowers, lights and traditional ornaments. Families visit temples and offer prayers, seeking blessings for happiness, prosperity and success. The festival is closely associated with the story of Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana, representing the triumph of righteousness over wrongdoing. In many parts of India, the occasion is marked by cultural performances, religious programmes and processions.

Holi, popularly known as the Festival of Colours, is one of India’s most vibrant and joyful festivals. It celebrates the arrival of spring and is associated with happiness, friendship, togetherness and the triumph of good over evil. In Hassan district, Holi brings people together to celebrate with colourful traditions and community gatherings. Families and friends meet, exchange greetings and enjoy the festive atmosphere. People traditionally apply colourful powders, known as gulal, to one another and share sweets and festive food.

Eid Milad-un-Nabi, also known as Mawlid, is an important occasion observed by Muslims to commemorate the birth of Prophet Muhammad. The day is marked with prayers, religious gatherings, devotional recitations and messages promoting peace, kindness, compassion and unity. In Hassan district, Muslim communities observe Eid Milad with devotion and enthusiasm. Mosques and community spaces are decorated with lights, banners and flowers, creating a peaceful and festive atmosphere. Families and community members come together to offer prayers and participate in gatherings that reflect the teachings and values associated with the Prophet.

In Karnataka, Pongal is celebrated as Makar Sankranti or Suggi Habba, a festival that celebrates the harvest, nature, farmers and the Sun. It is a joyful occasion when families come together, decorate their homes and share traditional foods. Karnataka Tourism describes Sankranti as a major harvest celebration, with traditions including Ellu Bella, colourful rangoli, sugarcane and special dishes such as sweet and savoury Huggi. In Hassan district, the festival beautifully reflects the district’s agricultural and rural traditions. Homes and entrances are cleaned and decorated with colourful rangoli, flowers and traditional toranas. Fresh sugarcane, turmeric, rice and other harvest produce are important parts of the celebrations. Farmers express gratitude for a good harvest and offer the first produce to the Sun as a symbol of thanksgiving.

Vinayaka Chavithi, also known as Ganesh Chaturthi, is one of the most joyful and widely celebrated festivals in Karnataka. In 2026, Vinayaka Chavithi falls on Monday, 14 September. In Hassan district, the festival brings together families, neighbourhoods, temples and community groups in a spirit of devotion and celebration. Homes and public spaces are beautifully decorated with flowers, mango leaves, colourful rangoli and traditional ornaments. Devotees install beautifully decorated idols of Lord Ganesha, the beloved elephant-headed deity who is worshipped as the remover of obstacles and the symbol of wisdom, prosperity and new beginnings. The celebrations begin with the installation of the Ganesha idol followed by special prayers, chanting, aarti and offerings. Devotees traditionally offer modak, kadubu, fruits, coconuts, flowers and durva grass to Lord Ganesha. Children and families actively participate in decorating the puja area and preparing traditional festive dishes.