Indian January 2025 Calendar: List of Public Holidays, Special Days, and Major Events

Europe Calendar in January 2025: List of National Holidays, Observances, and Special Days

Asia Calendar in January 2025: List of National Holidays, Observances, and Special Days

Overview: List of Holidays and Big Events in India for January 2025

January 2025 in India marks the beginning of a new year with a blend of vibrant cultural festivals, religious ceremonies, and national holidays. This month is a time of celebration and reflection, with each region showcasing unique traditions and practices. From the harvest festivals of Pongal and Makar Sankranti in the south and north to Lohri in Punjab, these events express gratitude to nature for its bounty. Meanwhile, Republic Day on January 26 highlights India’s pride in its democratic heritage.

Other observances, like International Holocaust Remembrance Day and World Braille Day, connect India to global movements for education, equality, and remembrance. Religious events like Thai Pongal and Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti bring communities together through devotion and communal activities. The mix of national pride, cultural diversity, and spiritual connection makes January a vibrant and meaningful month in India.

Beyond festivals and public holidays, January also includes regional fairs, artistic showcases, and winter celebrations, drawing both locals and tourists. Whether it’s kite flying in Gujarat or classical music festivals in Tamil Nadu, the month offers something for everyone.

This guide provides a detailed list of public holidays, special days, and major events happening across India in January 2025.

Learn more: 2025 India Calendar - Full List of National/Regional Public Holidays: Dates and Celebrations

Holidays in India for January 2025

List of Public Holidays, Special Days, and Major Events in India for January 2025

January 1, 2025 (Wednesday)

New Year’s Day

• Type: Public Holiday (select states)
• Observed In: Goa, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Mizoram, Nagaland, and other states with Christian influence.
• Significance: The first day of the Gregorian calendar year and a time for new beginnings.
• Activities:
  • Midnight parties and fireworks in metropolitan cities like Mumbai and Bengaluru.
  • Special prayers in churches, particularly in Goa and Kerala.
  • Beach parties in Goa and cultural events in northeastern states.

January 9, 2025 (Thursday)

Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti

• Type: Religious Holiday
• Observed In: Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Sikh communities nationwide.
• Significance: Celebrates the birth of Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th Sikh Guru and founder of the Khalsa.
• Activities:
  • Special prayers and hymns at gurdwaras.
  • Community meals (langar) open to all.
  • Processions with displays of traditional Sikh martial arts, Gatka.

January 13, 2025 (Monday)

Lohri

• Type: Regional Festival
• Observed In: Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Delhi.
• Significance: A harvest festival marking the end of winter and the harvesting of rabi crops.
• Activities:
  • Lighting bonfires and singing folk songs around them.
  • Offering sweets like gajak and rewari to the fire as a prayer for prosperity.
  • Traditional dances like Bhangra and Gidda performed in community gatherings.

January 14, 2025 (Tuesday)

Makar Sankranti

• Type: Religious Holiday
• Observed In: Across India with regional names such as Lohri in Punjab, Pongal in Tamil Nadu, and Uttarayan in Gujarat.
• Significance: Marks the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign Capricorn (Makara), signaling longer days.
• Activities:
  • Gujarat: The skies come alive with the International Kite Festival in Ahmedabad.
  • Maharashtra: Exchange of tilgul (sesame sweets) with neighbors and family.
  • Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh: Special prayers and bathing in holy rivers.

January 15–18, 2025 (Wednesday–Saturday)

Pongal

• Type: Regional Harvest Festival
• Observed In: Tamil Nadu and parts of South India.
• Significance: Celebrates a bountiful harvest and honors the Sun God (Surya).
• Activities:
  • Day 1 (Bhogi): Cleaning homes and discarding old belongings.
  • Day 2 (Surya Pongal): Cooking and offering Pongal, a sweet rice dish, to the Sun God.
  • Day 3 (Mattu Pongal): Honoring cattle with decorations and feeding them special treats.
  • Day 4 (Kaanum Pongal): Family outings and reunions.

January 16, 2025 (Thursday)

Uttarayan (International Kite Festival)

• Type: Regional Festival
• Observed In: Gujarat, Rajasthan, and parts of northern India.
• Significance: A major cultural event marking Makar Sankranti.
• Activities:
  • Kite flying competitions draw participants from across the globe.
  • Local food like undhiyu and jalebi are prepared.
  • Streets and rooftops buzz with celebratory music and laughter.

January 20, 2025 (Monday)

Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti

• Type: Religious Holiday
• Observed In: Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Sikh communities across India.
• Significance: The birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh.
• Activities:
  • Processions featuring hymns and Gatka martial arts.
  • Langar meals served in gurdwaras.
  • Religious discussions and community prayers.

January 24, 2025 (Friday)

International Day of Education

• Type: International Observance
• Observed In: Schools and institutions nationwide.
• Significance: Emphasizes inclusive and equitable access to education for all.
• Activities:
  • Seminars and workshops highlighting the importance of education.
  • Fundraisers for rural schools and underprivileged children.
  • Awareness campaigns on literacy.

January 26, 2025 (Sunday)

Republic Day

• Type: National Holiday
• Observed In: Across India.
• Significance: Commemorates the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1950.
• Activities:
  • The Republic Day Parade in New Delhi, showcasing India’s military and cultural diversity.
  • Flag hoisting in schools, colleges, and government offices.
  • Award ceremonies honoring civilians and military personnel for bravery and service.

January 27, 2025 (Monday)

India's Republic Day (26/1): History, Significance & Celebrations amidst Covid-19

International Holocaust Remembrance Day

• Type: International Observance
• Observed In: Educational institutions and cultural centers.
• Significance: Honors the memory of Holocaust victims and emphasizes combating hatred and intolerance.
• Activities:
  • Documentaries and discussions in schools and universities.
  • Exhibitions featuring survivor stories and historical artifacts.
  • Candlelight vigils and remembrance ceremonies.

January 28, 2025 (Tuesday)

Basant Panchami

• Type: Religious and Cultural Festival
• Observed In: Northern and eastern India, including Punjab, Haryana, and West Bengal.
• Significance: Dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the deity of wisdom and learning.
• Activities:
  • Wearing yellow, which symbolizes energy and prosperity.
  • Flying kites and enjoying festive meals.
  • Educational institutions conduct prayers and cultural programs.

January 31, 2025 (Friday)

Winter Festivals and Tourism Season

• Type: Seasonal Celebrations
• Observed In: Hill stations in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir.
• Significance: Highlights winter tourism and traditional mountain cultures.
• Activities:
  • Snow sports like skiing and snowboarding.
  • Cultural shows featuring local dances and cuisines.
  • Winter fairs showcasing handicrafts and artisanal goods.

Daily Holidays and Observances, Big Events in India for January 2025: 3-5 Events Per Day

Daily Holidays and Observances, Big Events in India for January 2025

Here is a detailed guide to the daily holidays, observances, and major events happening across India in January 2025. Each day is rich with cultural significance, national pride, and global connections, reflecting the diversity and vibrancy of India.

January 1, 2025 (Wednesday)

1. New Year’s Day: Celebrated in states like Goa, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and northeastern regions, marking the start of the Gregorian calendar year with prayers, parties, and fireworks.
2. Araku Balloon Festival (Andhra Pradesh): A unique event featuring colorful hot air balloons and cultural showcases in the scenic Araku Valley.
3. Winter Tourism Festivities: Popular in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir, offering skiing, snowboarding, and local fairs.

January 2, 2025 (Thursday)

1. Bishnupur Mela (West Bengal): A fair highlighting terracotta art and classical music traditions in the historic town of Bishnupur.
2. Post-New Year’s Prayers (Goa): Churches hold special blessings for the year ahead.
3. Winter Wellness Awareness Drives (Nationwide): Campaigns promoting health and immunity during the colder months.

January 3, 2025 (Friday)

1. Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti Preparations (Punjab, Haryana): Communities organize special prayers and kirtans (hymns) ahead of the festival.
2. Jaipur Literature Festival Announcement: Literary enthusiasts gear up for this major international event later in January.
3. Local Craft Exhibitions (Assam): Celebrating traditional Assamese handlooms and crafts.

January 4, 2025 (Saturday)

1. World Braille Day: Observed nationwide to promote Braille literacy and inclusion for visually impaired individuals.
2. Artisanal Markets Open (Rajasthan): Showcasing local crafts, jewelry, and pottery in Jaipur and Udaipur.
3. Community Yoga Sessions (Nationwide): Organized in parks to encourage health-focused resolutions for the new year.

January 5, 2025 (Sunday)

1. Pre-Lohri Preparations (Punjab): Families begin collecting wood for bonfires and preparing traditional sweets like gajak and til laddoos.
2. Rann Utsav (Gujarat): Cultural events continue in the white salt desert of Kutch, with music, dance, and handicrafts.
3. Ayurvedic Wellness Retreats (Kerala): Focused on rejuvenation and detoxification.

January 6, 2025 (Monday)

1. Kumbhalgarh Festival (Rajasthan): Folk performances and light shows at the historic Kumbhalgarh Fort.
2. Hindu Pilgrimage Start (Uttarakhand): Winter treks to Kedarnath and Badrinath for spiritual seekers.
3. Christmas Tree Removal (Northeast): Christian communities bid farewell to the festive season with gatherings.

January 7, 2025 (Tuesday)

1. Orthodox Christmas (Kerala): Observed by the Christian Orthodox community with midnight prayers and festive meals.
2. National Kite Making Workshops (Gujarat): Preparations for Uttarayan intensify with community participation.
3. Pre-Bihu Preparations (Assam): Homes are cleaned, and traditional food is prepared.

January 8, 2025 (Wednesday)

1. Winter Wildlife Awareness Day (Nationwide): Focused on protecting species like snow leopards and Siberian cranes.
2. Winter Marathon (Mumbai): A fitness event promoting health and wellness.
3. Bamboo Craft Workshops (Tripura): Highlighting sustainable artistry.

January 9, 2025 (Thursday)

1. Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti: Celebrated with prayers, langars (community meals), and processions in Sikh communities across India.
2. Winter Fashion Shows (Delhi): Featuring traditional and contemporary woolen attire.
3. National Road Safety Awareness Drive (Nationwide): Encouraging safe driving practices during winter.

January 10, 2025 (Friday)

1. Local Kite Flying Competitions (Gujarat): A prelude to the grand Uttarayan festival.
2. Music for Mindfulness Campaign (Bengaluru): A blend of Indian classical and contemporary music events.
3. Skiing Events Begin (Manali, Gulmarg): Popular tourist destinations host snow sports tournaments.

January 11, 2025 (Saturday)

1. Community Service Day (Nationwide): Volunteering events focused on rural development and education.
2. Harvest Markets Open (Tamil Nadu): Pongal preparations dominate village squares.
3. Ganga Sagar Mela (West Bengal): Pilgrims gather for a holy dip at the confluence of the Ganges and the Bay of Bengal.

January 12, 2025 (Sunday)

1. Youth Cultural Festival (Delhi): Featuring talent shows and workshops for young artists.
2. Pre-Lohri Celebrations (Punjab): Bonfires and traditional music set the stage for the festival.
3. Winter Food Walks (Lucknow): Exploring local cuisine and seasonal delicacies.

January 13, 2025 (Monday)

1. Lohri: Celebrated in Punjab and northern states with bonfires, folk songs, and dances.
2. International Kite Festival Begins (Ahmedabad): A vibrant event attracting participants globally.
3. Sankranti Shopping Spree (Southern India): Markets teem with festive purchases.

January 14, 2025 (Tuesday)

1. Makar Sankranti: Observed nationwide with kite flying, holy dips in rivers, and sharing sweets.
2. Ganga Bathing Rituals (Varanasi, Haridwar): Pilgrims offer prayers during the auspicious day.
3. Heritage Walks (Jaipur): Highlighting Rajasthan’s history and architecture.

January 15, 2025 (Wednesday)

1. Pongal Day 1 (Bhogi Pongal): Cleaning and renewal rituals in Tamil Nadu.
2. Mattu Pongal Celebrations (Day 2): Honoring cattle with decorations and rituals.
3. Traditional Cookouts (Tamil Nadu): Families prepare sweet rice dishes in clay pots.

January 16, 2025 (Thursday)

1. Uttarayan (Gujarat): A spectacle of colorful kites filling the skies.
2. Tribal Dance Performances (Odisha): Showcasing tribal art and culture.
3. Mattu Pongal (Day 3): Celebrating family gatherings and sharing meals.

January 17, 2025 (Friday)

1. Kite Flying Competitions (Mumbai, Jaipur): Expanding beyond Gujarat to other states.
2. Rural Art Fair (Madhya Pradesh): Celebrating indigenous craftsmanship.
3. Classical Dance Recitals (Kerala): Performances of Bharatanatyam and Kathakali.

January 18, 2025 (Saturday)

1. Tourist Season Peaks (Himalayas): Throngs of travelers enjoy snow activities.
2. Tribal Handicrafts Fair (Nagaland): Promoting local artisans.
3. Ayurveda Healing Retreats (Kerala): Highlighting traditional wellness practices.

January 19, 2025 (Sunday)

1. Ganga Sagar Mela Concludes (West Bengal): Closing prayers and cultural events.
2. Tea Tasting Festival (Darjeeling): Showcasing premium tea blends.
3. Community Clean-Up Drives (Goa): Post-holiday beach clean-ups.

Daily Holidays and Observances, Big Events in India for January 2025

January 20, 2025 (Monday)

1. Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti Processions: Marked with hymns, prayers, and community meals.
2. Winter Trekking Expeditions (Himalayas): Organized treks for adventure enthusiasts.
3. Republic Day Rehearsals (Delhi): Military and cultural preparations in full swing.

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January 21–25, 2025

Jaipur Literature Festival

• A global event hosting renowned authors, poets, and thinkers.
• Includes panel discussions, book launches, and cultural performances.

January 26, 2025 (Sunday)

1. Republic Day: Celebrated with a grand parade in Delhi and flag-hoisting ceremonies nationwide.
2. Patriotic Music Concerts (Nationwide): Featuring folk and classical performances.
3. Bravery Awards Ceremony (Delhi): Honoring civilians and soldiers.

January 27, 2025 (Monday)

1. International Holocaust Remembrance Day: Educational programs and memorial services.
2. Peace Marches (Delhi): Promoting unity and tolerance.
3. School Awareness Programs: Teaching students about the importance of diversity and inclusion.

January 28, 2025 (Tuesday)

1. Basant Panchami: Celebrated in northern India, honoring Goddess Saraswati.
2. Kite Flying Events (Punjab): A cultural celebration marking the festival.
3. Flower Festivals Begin (Sikkim): Highlighting orchids and seasonal blooms.

January 31, 2025 (Friday)

1. Winter Cultural Shows (Tamil Nadu): Celebrating regional art and cuisine.
2. Snow Sports Finals (Himachal Pradesh): Culminating the skiing season.
3. Art Exhibitions (Delhi): Featuring winter-inspired themes.

Conclusion

January 2025 in India is a month of rich traditions, national pride, and global participation. From kite festivals to Republic Day parades, each event reflects the country’s cultural and historical depth. Religious festivals like Lohri, Pongal, and Makar Sankranti bring communities together, while international observances highlight India’s role on the global stage. With its blend of solemnity and celebration, January offers a glimpse into India’s dynamic identity.

FAQs

1. What are the major holidays in January 2025 in India?

The key holidays include New Year’s Day (January 1), Lohri (January 13), Makar Sankranti (January 14), Pongal (January 15–18), and Republic Day (January 26).

2. How is Republic Day celebrated?

Republic Day is marked by a grand parade in New Delhi, cultural programs, flag-hoisting ceremonies, and awards for national service.

3. What is the significance of Pongal?

Pongal is a Tamil harvest festival thanking the Sun God and nature for a bountiful harvest. It involves cooking sweet rice, honoring cattle, and family reunions.

4. Are there any global observances in January 2025?

Yes, India observes International Day of Education (January 24) and International Holocaust Remembrance Day (January 27) with events promoting awareness and education.

5. Which states celebrate Makar Sankranti uniquely?

• Gujarat: Known for the Kite Festival (Uttarayan).
• Punjab: Celebrated as Lohri with bonfires and folk dances.

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