Festivals & Events in Banaskantha

Bhadarvi Poonam Fair — The Grand Celebration

Bhadarvi Poonam (the full moon of the Hindu month Bhadrapada, typically August-September) is the most important festival at Ambaji Temple. This grand fair draws over a million devotees from Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and beyond.

The temple is magnificently decorated, and the entire town of Ambaji transforms into a vibrant fairground. Highlights include:

• Special darshan and aarti ceremonies throughout the day and night
• A colourful fair (mela) with stalls, rides, and local handicrafts
• Traditional folk performances including garba and bhajans
• Processions of the goddess and various cultural events
• Thousands of oil lamps (diyas) lighting up the temple complex at night

Navratri — Nine Nights of Devotion & Dance

Navratri (September-October) is celebrated with tremendous fervour across Banaskantha. Ambaji Temple sees special decorations and extended darshan hours. The town comes alive with garba and dandiya raas performances every night.

Key highlights include:

• Special Navratri aartis and rituals at Ambaji Temple
• Garba and dandiya raas events at community grounds and hotels
• The famous "Ramleela" performances in Ambaji
• Massive participation from devotees across Gujarat and Rajasthan

Other Festivals

Maha Shivaratri

Celebrated with special fervour at Balaram Mahadev Temple and Kedarnath Mahadev Temple in Jessore Sanctuary. Devotees trek through the forest to offer prayers, and the temples are beautifully decorated with lights and flowers.

Diwali (Deepavali)

The festival of lights sees Ambaji Temple and homes across Banaskantha illuminated with thousands of diyas. Special pujas and celebrations mark the occasion.

Janmashtami

Celebrated at Balaram Mahadev Temple (associated with Lord Balaram) and various Krishna temples across the district. Night-long bhajans and celebrations.

Paryushan & Mahavir Jayanti

Important Jain festivals observed at Kumbhariya Jain Temples and other Jain shrines in the district. Special prayers and processions.

Festival Calendar