February is of festivals in India. The month puts back historical wonders, religiously and culturally important events in limelight. Rose, Elephant, Crafts and Melas take the centre stage bringing in love, fun and togetherness in the air. Find below the eventful India in February.

Maha Kumbh Mela
When: January 14 to April 28
Where: Haridwar
One of the largest religious gatherings of the world is on in Haridwar all through this month in the form of Maha (Great) Kumbh Mela. Attended by millions of devotees and Yogis from across the world, this holy Mela is a super peak occasion when whole Haridwar is echoed with the sounds of Ghantas (Bells) and Vedic Mantras. The sacred dip in the holy water of Ganges is an immensely popular event here. It is believed that the holy dip has the power to wash away an individual’s all past sins.

Surajkund Crafts Mela
When: February 1to 15
Where: Faridabad
Indian art, culture and tradition gets a creative presentation this month at the Surajkund Crafts Mela which turns in its 24th edition this year.  This internationally acclaimed 15-days long Mela hears footfalls of lakhs of art lovers in quest of designer items made in bamboo, wood, metal, iron; beautifully stroked paintings; ivory work, terracotta, mirror work, stonework and many others. Colourful exhibition-cum-sale stalls have been set up by Indian and international artists. Folk dance, music programs, plays, cultural events will also be organized. 

Taj Mahotsav
When: February 18 to 27
Where: Agra
Shilpgram in Agra will witness ten days long Taj Mahotsav this month. The best of Uttar Pradesh’s craft, culture, cuisines, folk music and art will be on display. There will be Nautanki (Drama), Camel ride, Elephant ride, food festival and games for the kids. The grandeur of Mughal era will come alive with the participation of skilled drummers, musicians and other artists. The spotlight will be on upholding Indian arts and culture near one of the world’s most beloved structures: The Taj Mahal. 

Rose Festival
When: Last week of the month
Where: Chandigarh
Rose festival or festival of gardens is a unique event concerning flowers. It is a three days long festival which was started with a view to encourage people savor the Nature. The festival is celebrated in the beautiful Rose Garden which is the home to thousands of unique and beautiful varieties of roses planted in an organized manner over 30 acres of neatly preserved land area. The celebration will be further enchanted with musical shows, folk dances and other cultural programs. 

Goa Carnival
When: February 13 to 16
Where: Goa
Goa Carnival is a fun filled celebration which sees participation of people from different religion and culture. Primarily started by the Portuguese in the 18th century, the carnival is still into practice and has been regarded as an important event. The whole carnival gets a never ending spirit with masked dance, red-and-black dance, live music, floats, parades and many other interesting events.

Jaipur Elephant Festival
When: February 28
Where: Jaipur
Elephants are adored in Rajasthan the way Camels are. Jaipur Elephant festival is the testimony of the fact. This is a daylong festival in which Elephants become the centre of attraction for everyone. It is celebrated on the eve of Holi. A good number of bejeweled Elephants march in the royal style. They participate in different games including Polo and Tug of War. The latter is between men and Elephants. Traditional dance and music programs are also being organized.

Watch out what’s more in February in the second part of this article.