Experience Mumbai’s Vibrant Festivals
Mumbaikars don’t need much of an excuse to party. Whether it be a nationwide religious holiday or local church fete, events in the city are marked throughout the year with immense gusto, often drawing hundreds (if not thousands) of people out to celebrate together.
Visiting Mumbai during frenetic festival time – with the added crowds and noise – might seem a little daunting. However, this is a chance to see the city at its most enlivened. Whether you’re into movies or music, art or wine, join the fun at one of these spectacular Mumbai festivals.
Elephanta Festival (January; Elephanta Caves)
It’s hard to imagine a more impressive setting for a music festival than the ancient, UNESCO-listed Hindu cave temples on Elephanta Island. The two-day Elephanta Festival is a joyous celebration of Indian classical music and traditional dance and art. Added activities such as a family treasure hunt, sculpting, and painting workshops allow visitors to learn more about local culture and customs. The festivities typically begin near the Gateway of India on day one, before moving to Elephanta Island for the second day.
SulaFest (February; Nashik)
An easy detour from Mumbai by bus or train, this annual gathering of wine lovers has brought significant attention to India’s sophisticated wine industry. Held in the picturesque vineyards of Nashik, the SulaFest celebrations feature performances by acclaimed bands and musicians, accompanied by a variety of wines, cheeses, and delectable food. A favorite part of the festivities is the grape smashing ritual, alongside tattoo sessions, dancing, and shopping at local pop-up stores.
Kala Ghoda Arts Festival (February; Kala Ghoda)
In February, the heritage district of Kala Ghoda in South Mumbai transforms into a kaleidoscope of colorful street art during the annual Kala Ghoda Arts Festival. This vibrant event includes visual arts, cinematic workshops, live music, festival foods, and performing arts sessions, appealing to individuals of all ages. Whether you enjoy poetry, painting, pottery, photography, or simply want to soak in the festive atmosphere, this festival should not be missed.
Krishna Janmasthmi (August; city-wide)
Celebrated city-wide, the birthday of Lord Krishna resembles a spirited sporting event, testing the agility and teamwork of participating youth. Scores of young men – representing the gopalas (cowherds) Krishna lived among – form giant human pyramids to reach clay urns filled with goodies and cash suspended above the streets, while women douse them with water to thwart their efforts. This playful challenge pays homage to the legend of the infant Krishna stealing butter from the village dairy rafters.
Ganesh Chaturthi (August or September; city-wide)
Ganesh Chaturthi is the city’s most important festival and one of India’s most colorful spectacles. For 11 days, this celebration of Mumbai’s beloved deity, the elephant-headed god Ganesh, sees homes, offices, and public pandals (ceremonial tents) adorned with dioramas reflecting deities and contemporary events, from Bollywood releases to political highlights. At the festival’s conclusion, grand processions of devotees and musical bands parade multi-hued idols of Ganesh through the city, leading to the ocean, creeks, and tanks for ritual immersion. If you attend, consider participating in the beach and river clean-up efforts that follow the celebrations.
Symphony Orchestra of India (September; National Centre for the Performing Arts)
The autumn concerts of the Symphony Orchestra of India (SOI) at Mumbai’s National Centre for the Performing Arts feature maestros from across the globe, presenting the compositions of greats like Beethoven, Mozart, and Sibelius. The SOI, as India’s first and only professional symphony orchestra, serves as a vital platform for cultural exchange among diverse communities worldwide.
MAMI Mumbai Film Festival (October-November; city-wide)
Conducted by the Mumbai Academy of Moving Images, this international film festival has gained notable acclaim over the years. As expected from a film festival in the heart of Bollywood, MAMI serves as a significant gathering for indie and unconventional filmmakers alongside prominent movie stars and directors. Screenings occur across the city, allowing attendees to relish some of the best international, national, and regional productions, from grand features to quirky shorts.
NH7 Weekender (December; Pune)
As one of India’s largest music festivals, the NH7 Weekender spans two days in Pune, uniting some of the nation’s top musical icons, folk artists, and emerging indie-rock bands. Attendees visit not only for the stellar lineup but also for shopping, with a plethora of unique offerings from local designers, artisans, and traders. Public transport, like buses and trains, makes it accessible from Mumbai.
