Here is a chronological list of major Indian festivals in February 2024, covering annual events of social, cultural, and religious significance:
Major events in February 2024
1. Vivekananda Jayanti : February 2 (Friday)
This is a day commemorating the birth of Swami Vivekananda, a key figure in the introduction of Indian philosophies of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world. This date is as per lunar caledar, as per tithi.
World Wetlands Day is also celebrated on February 2nd.
2. Kalashtami: February 2 (Friday)
The day od Ashtami is dedicated to Lord Kalabhairava, a manifestation of Lord Shiva, it is observed monthly on the Ashtami Tithi of the lunar calendar.
3. Shattila Ekadashi: February 6 (Tuesday)
An Ekadashi observed during the waning phase of the moon in the month of Magha, involving rituals and fasting. This day is also known as Vaishnava Shatatila Ekadashi, which is observed by the Vaishnava sect, who are followers of Lord Vishnu.
February 6th is also celebrated as Safe Internet Day, and is the day when Bharat Ratna Lata Mahgeshkar ji passed away.
4. Meru Trayodashi: February 8 (Wednesday)
This is a Jain festival based on the Jain calendar. On the same day, Pradosh Vrat, a bi-monthly fasting day dedicated to Lord Shiva, observed on the thirteenth day of every lunar fortnight.
5. Losar: February 10 (Saturday), Magh Month Begins
Losar is the Tibetan New Year, celebrated with various traditional activities and rituals. This day is also the start of Magh month in the Hindu calendar, considered auspicious for spiritual practices and holy baths in sacred rivers.
6. Shantadurga Rathotsav: February 13 (Tuesday)
This is a festival dedicated to Goddess Shantadurga, celebrated in Goa with a grand chariot procession (Rathotsav).
7. Vasant Panchami (Saraswati Puja): February 14 (Wednesday)
A festival that marks the arrival of spring and is dedicated to Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, music, art, and culture. Basant Panchami, also known as Vasant Panchami, is celebrated on the fifth day (Panchami) of the Hindu month of Magha. It usually in late January or early February. People wear yellow clothes offer prayers to Goddess Saraswati, and students place their books and instruments at her feet seeking blessings for wisdom and success.
8. Sant Sevelal Jayanti: February 15 (Thursday)
The birth anniversary of Sant Sevalal Maharaj, revered by the Banjara community.
9. Ratha Saptami: February 16 (Friday)
A festival that marks the birth of Surya (the Sun God) and is symbolically represented by the Sun turning its chariot (Ratha) drawn by seven horses towards the northern hemisphere.
10. Vasudev Balwant Phadke Punyatithi: February 17 (Saturday)
The death anniversary of Vasudev Balwant Phadke, remembered for his role in India's freedom struggle.
11. Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti: February 19 (Monday)
The birth anniversary of the great Maratha ruler Shivaji Maharaj, celebrated with pride and various cultural events in Maharashtra.
13. Vishwakarma Jayanti: February 22 (Thursday)
The birth anniversary of Lord Vishwakarma, the divine architect, observed by workers and craftsmen in India. This day also celebrates the Gurupushyamrut Yog.
14. Sant Gadge Baba Jayanti: February 23 (Friday)
The birth anniversary of Sant Gadge Baba, a saint from Maharashtra known for his work towards social reform and community development.
15. Guru Ravidas Jayanti: February 24 (Saturday)
The birth anniversary of Guru Ravidas, a revered saint and poet whose teachings are an important part of the Bhakti movement. This day also marks the conclusion of the holy bathing period in the month of Magh, which is believed to purify the soul.
World Printing Day is also observed on this day, which presents a day to acknowledge the importance of printing in the dissemination of knowledge and information.
16. Veer Savarkar Punyatithi: February 26 (Monday)
The death anniversary of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, known for his contributions to the Indian independence movement.
17. National Science Day: February 28 (Wednesday)
Celebrated in India to mark the discovery of the Raman Effect by Indian physicist Sir C.V. Raman, and to promote the spread of science and technology.
Goa Carnival
While not specifically a religious festival, the Goa Carnival is a cultural extravaganza celebrated with great zeal and excitement. It is held the state of Goa, known for its vibrant nightlife and Portuguese influence. The carnival features colorful parades, music, dance performances, street plays, and delicious Goan cuisine. The streets come alive with locals tourists wearing masks and costumes, dancing to the beats of traditional Goan music.
Other Notable Events in February 2024
There are several other important days that are celebrated in the month of February. For example, Indian Coast Guard Day is celebrate don February 1st, Sri Lanka Day is celebrated on February 4th,