There’s no denying how beautiful the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are, right? There are many natural landscapes, tranquil waters, pleasant weather, historical mysteries from the British era, and other things to discover in this place. These islands’ culture is a fusion of numerous languages, faiths, and ethnic groupings.
Every location has a unique flavour that is rooted in its unique culture and traditions. Similarly, Andaman and Nicobar Islands is one of the areas that welcome you with several festivals you must not miss! You will learn about the most well-known festivals in Andaman in this post, along with info on how the locals celebrate them.
Top Festivals Celebrated in Andaman and Nicobar Islands You Should Know About:
1. Ganesh Pooja
Ganesh Pooja is commonly observed in the Andaman Islands during Bhadrapad Sudha Chaturthi, the Hindu calendar month. “Vinayaka Chaturthi” is another name for it. In Andaman, many Ganesh temples receive floral decorations and diya lighting, as well as crowds of devotees who come to offer Lord Ganesha their prayers and Shradhanjali.
Afterward, they provide meals like “Kozhukattai” and “Sundal”, which are subsequently given to the worshippers as Prasad. Priests conduct Aartis and poojas. During Ganesh Puja, you must visit the Shri Karpaga Vinyagar at Goal Ghar and the Sri Lakshmi Vinayagar Temple in Aberdeen Bazaar. Read More: All about Ganesh Chaturthi Festival in India 2024.
- Highlights: Celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, featuring large, beautifully crafted idols of Ganesha, vibrant processions, and music.
- Date: Typically falls in August or September, on the fourth day of the waxing moon period (Shukla Chaturthi) in the month of Bhadrapada.
- How to Celebrate: People install clay idols of Ganesha in their homes or public pandals. Offerings of sweets, flowers, and prayers are made. The festival culminates with the immersion (Visarjan) of the idols in water.
2. Ayyappa Pooja
Depending on the day of the Thai New Year, Ayappa Pooja is celebrated on either January 14 or 15. (Tamil month). Before the first day of the Thai month, believers practice between 45 and 60 days of rituals. All devotees of Ayappa perform poojas three times every day, commencing at five in the morning.
On Thai 1st, the devotees honour Lord Ayappa by going to the Ayappa temple. On these days, bhajans—Ayappa-related songs sung while clapping and using other musical instruments—are performed. The prevalent belief that Lord Ayappa will favour this pooja and worship is intriguing to witness.
- Highlights: Dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, observed with fasting, chanting of prayers, and pilgrimage to Sabarimala in Kerala.
- Date: The pilgrimage season begins in November and ends in January, especially significant during the Makaravilakku festival.
- How to Celebrate: Devotees observe a 41-day fast, practice celibacy, wear traditional black or blue clothes, and carry a special kit (Irumudi) on their pilgrimage to Sabarimala.
3. Kali Pooja
During the Kali Pooja, Goddess Maa Kali is worshipped. The goddess Kali is revered as the destroyer of evil. Every year, she is venerated with great devotion during the Aswin (October–November) month. The main attraction during Kali Puja is the Kali temple in Premnagar, exquisitely decorated with coloured lamps.
To participate in the poojas and artis, locals and tourists from various places travel to the temple. A large crowd frequently visits locations with Kali’s idols outside of the Kali Temple to worship Maa Kali. Following the Kali Pooja, the idols are taken in a procession to be submerged in water.
- Highlights: Worship of Goddess Kali, marked by offerings, rituals, and sometimes animal sacrifices in some regions.
- Date: Coincides with Diwali, usually in October or November, on the new moon day of the Hindu month Kartik.
- How to Celebrate: Devotees perform puja at night, offer flowers, sweets, and sacrifices where practiced. Homes and temples are decorated, and fireworks are common.
4. Holi
The festival known as Holi is also known as the Festival of Colors. Holi is a festival characterized by playing with colour and sharing joy. This festival is observed on Phalguni Poornima Day, or Full Moon Day, which happens on a specific day each year during February and March, according to the Hindu calendar.
No matter the location or religion, people of all ages celebrate Holi. Holi is a celebration of colours, and when the Andaman and Nicobar Islands residents participate in it, it is easy to see the joy and passion on their faces. As the younger generation goes to the cinema, some people go to the temple. Read More: A Guide to India Holi Festivals 2024
- Highlights: Festival of colors celebrating the victory of good over evil, love of Radha and Krishna, and the arrival of spring.
- Date: Occurs in March, on the full moon day in the Hindu month of Phalguna.
- How to Celebrate: People throw colored powders and water at each other, have parties, and share sweets. Bonfires are lit on the eve of Holi.
5. Durga Pooja
In the month of Ashweis on the Hindu calendar, Hindus also observe this important festival with great devotion. The Navaratri pooja (Nava Durga Pooja) is a nine-day celebration of this pooja celebrated by all Hindus. In these islands, Durga pooja is observed annually from September to October.
The figures of the goddess Durga Matha, as well as those of other gods like Ganesh, Sri Karthik (Sri Murugan), and others, are made in clay by Bengali associations and other groups in each town. With the assistance of priests, these groups then perform the pooja. Read More: Durga Puja in Kolkata – Why You Should Never Miss
- Highlights: Honors Goddess Durga’s victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
- Date: Celebrated in September or October, culminates on the tenth day of the month of Ashvin, known as Vijayadashami or Dussehra.
- How to Celebrate: Elaborate idols of Durga are worshipped, cultural programs are held, and the festival ends with the immersion of the idols in water.
6. Panguni Uthiram
The residents of these islands place a lot of significance on this festival. This festival honours Lord Shiva and Lady Parvati’s son, God Sri Vetrimalai Murugan (also known as God Karthik). The oldest temple on these islands is the Murugan temple at Sri Vetrimalai (Victroy Hill).
This temple is notable because it attracts tourists from every area and faith in our country as well as from beyond. The people strongly believe that God Murugan answers their prayers and gives blessings to them. The temple is adorned with bright lights and banners throughout the celebration. “Anna Dhanam” is performed every day during the festival season.
- Highlights: Celebrates the marriage of Hindu deities, such as Parvati and Shiva, and is marked by temple festivals and rituals.
- Date: Falls in March or April, on the day the moon transits the constellation of Uttara Phalguni or Uthiram.
- How to Celebrate: Devotees visit temples, carry out processions, and perform marriages for the deities in the temples.
7. Sri Mariamman Thiruvizha
This festival, which praises the goddess Arulmigu Sri Mariamman, is the second largest among Hindu celebrations. Six kilometers away, close to the town of Astinabad, is where this shrine is situated. Chidiya Tapu is the final stop for Port Blair buses. The goddess Mariamman is said to have been watching over these islands, according to all people of all faiths.
Before departing these islands, the two temples are mandatory stops for all visitors, including foreigners, and they have their celebrations in February each year. The same pooja and aarti conducted to God, Sri Vetrimalai Murugan, are also performed for Goddess Mariamman by her followers.
- Highlights: A festival dedicated to Goddess Mariamman, known for its fire-walking ceremony.
- Date: Dates vary widely but often occur in late summer or early autumn.
- How to Celebrate: Devotees participate in fire-walking, offer prayers, and make offerings to the goddess for health and rain.
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8. Deepavali
Another prominent event celebrated by Andamanis is Deepavali, or the Festival of Lights. It has long been observed in October and November to commemorate the triumph of good over evil. As Sita, Ram, Laxman, and Hanuman return to Ayodhya on this day after conquering Ravana, the festival is also connected to the Ramayana.
They celebrate it by donning new attire and giving gifts and candies to their loved ones. They tidy up, add lights and diyas, and brighten their homes. Crackers pop in various places. Nonetheless, individuals should refrain from popping fireworks to protect the environment and lower pollution. Read More: Diwali Festival 2023: Importance, Attraction, Where, How to celebrate it?
- Highlights: Festival of lights celebrating the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness.
- Date: Typically in October or November, on the new moon day of the Hindu month Kartik.
- How to Celebrate: Homes are decorated with lights and rangoli, fireworks are set off, and people share sweets and gifts.
9. Ramzan
For Muslims worldwide, Ramadan is a blessed period of the year. Muslims observe a fast from sunrise till nightfall during the festival of Ramzan, which is celebrated in the Andaman Islands. From morning to dusk until sundown, they do not even drink water. The meal they eat is called iftar, and they can eat before dawn and after dusk.
The Quran is continuously read throughout the festival, which lasts for roughly 30 days, and they give alms to the needy. According to Islamic belief, the purpose of this fast is to remind the faithful of the suffering of the less fortunate while simultaneously drawing them closer to God.
- Highlights: Marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.
- Date: The date varies each year, moving approximately 11 days earlier annually, based on the lunar Islamic calendar.
- How to Celebrate: Muslims attend special community prayers, visit friends and family, and give to charity. Feasting is common after the month-long fast.
10. Island Tourism Festival
One of the largest festivals hosted in the Archipelago, known worldwide for its grand celebrations, is the Island Tourism Festival, which takes place in the Andaman Islands. It is an annual 15-day celebration in Port Blair and numerous locations on various islands, including Havelock, Neil, Diglipur, Rangat, and others.
Hundreds of tourists are drawn to the area each year due to its attractiveness. There are numerous events offered for guests at the Island Tourism Festival. You can count on having a string of enjoyable cultural activities, including live music concerts, stage shows, dance performances, and plays.
- Highlights: A celebration of the culture and traditions of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, featuring music, dance, and exhibitions.
- Date: Usually held in December or January.
- How to Celebrate: Attend various cultural performances, exhibitions, and sports competitions organized across the islands.
11. Beach Festival
This event caps off the Andaman and Nicobar Islands’ spring season. A calm summer with moderate temperatures is welcomed in April. A selection of experiences is available at the Beach Festival that makes your trip memorable. Who can fault the festival’s goal of promoting beach activities in the Andaman Islands?
There will inevitably be a festival honouring beaches in a place where there are more of them than plains. Several beach games are also available, including volleyball, tug of war, kabaddi, and others. You must attend this festival if you wish to take part in one of Andaman and Nicobar’s best.
- Highlights: Celebrates beach culture with events like sand art, beach sports, and live music.
- Date: Dates and locations vary, often held in coastal towns during the summer months.
- How to Celebrate: Participate in or watch competitions, enjoy live performances, and engage in beach-related activities.
The Bottom Line
Hence, the aforementioned Andaman and Nicobar festivals define the island’s cultural richness and traditional characteristics. Take advantage of them if you are there at any point during the festive season. With the traditional cuisine, which is thought to be what makes the location so well-known, you will also want to discover water adventures.
Further Information:
- Best Time to Visit Andaman and Nicobar
- Famous Honeymoon Resorts in Andaman
- Things to Buy from Andaman
- 8 Most Beautiful Beaches in Andaman & Nicobar
- Things to do in Andaman for Honeymoon
- 10 Facts About The Cellular Jail, Andaman & Nicobar
- Andaman & Nicobar Islands Complete Travel Guide for First-Timers
FAQs about the Festivals Celebrated in Andaman and Nicobar Islands:
Q1: What are some of the popular festivals celebrated in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?
A1: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, with their diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds, celebrate a variety of festivals. The most popular ones include Island Tourism Festival, Subhash Mela, Block Mela, Monsoon Festival, and World Tourism Day.
Q2: Can you explain what the Island Tourism Festival is?
A2: The Island Tourism Festival is a ten-day festival that is typically held in the months of December and January. The event showcases the cultural, artistic, and culinary diversity of the islands, with numerous performances, exhibitions, and stalls. Visitors can witness the vibrant lifestyle of the islanders, enjoy local music and dance, and try a variety of local cuisines.
Q3: What is Subhash Mela and why is it celebrated?
A3: Subhash Mela is an annual festival celebrated in honor of Subhash Chandra Bose, a key figure in the Indian independence movement. It's held in January, marking the arrival of Bose to the islands. The festival lasts a week and features cultural performances, exhibitions, and other activities, mainly taking place on the island of Havelock.
Q4: Could you tell me about Block Mela?
A4: Block Mela is a festival that showcases the tribal culture, handicrafts, art, and music of the islands' inhabitants. It is organized by the local administration to promote unity among the island's diverse communities.
Q5: What is the Monsoon Festival and when is it celebrated?
A5: The Monsoon Festival is an event organized to celebrate the onset of the monsoon season in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It usually takes place in the months of June and July. The festival includes a variety of water sports, monsoon-related exhibitions, and other cultural events. It's a great way to enjoy the beauty of the islands during the rainy season.
Q6: How is World Tourism Day celebrated in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?
A6: World Tourism Day is observed on September 27 each year in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, similar to many other parts of the world. The day is marked by numerous events that highlight the islands' natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and unique cultural heritage. This includes activities like beach clean-ups, nature walks, cultural performances, seminars, and workshops.
Q7: Can tourists participate in the festivals of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?
A7: Yes, tourists are generally welcomed and encouraged to participate in the festivals. The events offer visitors a chance to learn about and engage with the local culture, traditions, and lifestyles of the islanders.
Q8: How can I find out about the dates and schedules of these festivals?
A8: The exact dates of these festivals may vary each year. The best way to get up-to-date information is by visiting the official tourism website of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands or contacting local tour operators.
Q9: Are there any special requirements or guidelines for attending these festivals?
A9: There are generally no special requirements to attend these festivals. However, visitors are expected to respect the local customs and traditions. In some cases, there may be guidelines related to attire, photography, and interaction with the locals, so it's best to inquire ahead.
Q10: Can one buy local art, food, or other items during these festivals?
A10: Yes, these festivals often have stalls and exhibits where local artisans, cooks, and vendors sell their products. It's a great opportunity to buy authentic souvenirs, try local cuisine, and support the local economy.
