Christmas

Christmas, the birth of Christ is observed all over the country with traditional festivities. It is widely celebrated all over India on 25th December and is specially interesting in Goa and Kerala, where some of the local culture has been absorbed into the festivities.

Id-ul-Zuha or Bakrid

Id-ul-Zuha or Bakrid , Muslim festivities are celebrated throughout the country. They celebrate the sacrifice of Hazrat Ibrahim, who willingly agreed to kill his son at the behest of God. To celebrate the event Muslims sacrifice one animal per family or group of families. There are prayers in mosques, feasting, and rejoicing. New clothes are worn and visits and greetings are exchanged.

Muharram

The 10-day Shi'ite Muharram festival commemorates the martyrdom of Mohammed's grandson. It's marked by a grand parade and dedicated penitents scourge themselves with whips in religious fervour. It's best seen in Lucknow, the principal Indian Shi'ite city and takes place in April/May for the next couple of years.