Bihar is a land of rich culture and traditions. The festivals here are full of joy, colors, music, and togetherness. They show the deep-rooted beliefs and customs of the people. From grand religious events to unique local celebrations.
Bihar’s festivals bring families and communities closer. Whether you are visiting Bihar or just curious about its culture, knowing about these festivals will give you a wonderful vibe into the heart of Bihar.
Here are the top 10 most celebrated festivals in Bihar that are enjoyed by millions every year.
1. Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja is the most important and unique festival of Bihar. It is dedicated to the Sun God and his wife, Usha. People thank the Sun for giving life and energy to the world.
The festival lasts for four days. During this time, devotees fast, take holy baths in rivers or ponds, and pray to the Sun God at sunrise and sunset. One of the most beautiful parts of Chhath Puja is when people stand waist-deep in water and offer fruits, flowers, and prayers to the setting and rising sun.
Chhath Puja is celebrated with great devotion and brings together families and communities. It is a time of cleanliness, discipline, and gratitude. Millions of people in Bihar and nearby states take part every year, making it one of the biggest festivals in eastern India.
2. Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti marks the beginning of longer days as the sun moves into the Capricorn sign. This festival is celebrated with kite flying, special sweets made of sesame seeds and jaggery, and fairs in villages and towns.
People visit temples and take holy dips in rivers. It is a festival that welcomes new beginnings and the harvest season, filled with happiness and warmth.
3. Holi
Holi is one of the most joyful and widely celebrated festivals in Bihar. Known as the festival of colors, Holi marks the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil. People celebrate Holi with great excitement by throwing colored powders and spraying colored water on friends, family, and neighbors.
The celebrations usually start the night before Holi with a bonfire called Holika Dahan, symbolizing the burning of evil spirits. On the main day, people gather in open spaces, sing traditional songs, dance, and enjoy delicious sweets like gujiya and thandai (a flavored drink).
Holi brings people together, breaking social barriers and spreading happiness. In Bihar, it is also a time for folk music and dances, especially in rural areas where communities join in big celebrations. The festival is a perfect way to enjoy nature’s colors and renew relationships with love and joy.
4. Diwali
Diwali is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in Bihar and across India. Known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. People decorate their homes with oil lamps (diyas), candles, and colorful lights to welcome prosperity and happiness.
In Bihar, Diwali is also a time to worship Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and fortune. Families clean their homes, buy new clothes, and prepare special sweets to share with friends and relatives. People burst fireworks and enjoy festive meals together.
Diwali brings families and communities closer, spreading joy and hope. It is a beautiful celebration that lights up the hearts and homes of millions in Bihar every year.
5. Buddha Jayanti
Buddha Jayanti is an important festival celebrated in Bihar, especially in places like Bodh Gaya where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. It marks the birth, enlightenment, and death anniversary of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism.
On this day, people visit temples and monasteries to offer prayers and meditate. Special programs like processions, talks on Buddha’s teachings, and cultural performances are held. Buddha Jayanti reminds everyone of the values of peace, kindness, and nonviolence taught by Buddha, which continue to inspire millions around the world.
6. Durga Puja
Durga Puja is celebrated with much devotion, especially in cities and towns. People worship Goddess Durga, who symbolizes strength and protection.
The festival lasts several days and includes setting up beautiful idols, singing, dancing, and community feasts. It is a time of cultural programs and social gatherings.
7. Sama Chakeva
Sama Chakeva is a special festival celebrated mainly by women and girls in Bihar. It honors the brother-sister relationship and nature.
Women create colorful clay birds and perform rituals to pray for the well-being of their brothers. The festival is marked by folk songs, dances, and colorful decorations in homes.
8. Raksha Bandhan
Raksha Bandhan celebrates the special bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters tie a sacred thread called ‘rakhi’ on their brothers’ wrists as a symbol of protection. Brothers promise to take care of their sisters in return. The day is filled with love, gifts, and family gatherings.
On this day, sisters tie a sacred thread called a rakhi around their brothers’ wrists. This thread symbolizes love, protection, and a promise that brothers will always take care of their sisters. In return, brothers give gifts to their sisters and vow to support them throughout their lives.
Families come together to celebrate Raksha Bandhan with prayers, sweets, and gifts. The festival strengthens family ties and reminds everyone of the importance of love and responsibility in relationships.
9. Saraswati Puja
Saraswati Puja is a special festival dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, wisdom, music, and arts. It is celebrated with great devotion in Bihar, especially by students, teachers, and artists who seek her blessings for success in their studies and creative work.
On this day, people clean their homes and schools and set up a small altar with an idol or picture of Goddess Saraswati. Books, musical instruments, and tools of learning are placed near her statue as a symbol of respect. Devotees offer flowers, sweets, and prayers, asking for wisdom and guidance.
Saraswati Puja is an important occasion in Bihar’s educational institutions, and it encourages people to value learning and creativity. It is a festival that inspires students to work hard and honor the power of knowledge.
10. Jitiya Vrat
Jitiya Vrat is a special fasting festival celebrated by mothers in Bihar and nearby regions. On this day, mothers fast without eating or drinking water for 24 hours to pray for the long life, health, and well-being of their children.
The vrat (fast) is observed with great devotion. Mothers gather in groups, perform special prayers, and listen to stories related to the festival’s significance. The fast is believed to bring protection and blessings to the children, especially sons.
Jitiya Vrat is a beautiful example of a mother’s love and sacrifice. It strengthens family bonds and is celebrated with simplicity, devotion, and care.
Final Thoughts
Bihar’s festivals are a beautiful blend of devotion, culture, and community spirit. Each festival has its own unique story and way of celebration, reflecting the rich traditions of the state. Whether it’s the sacred prayers of Chhath Puja or the colorful fun of Holi, these festivals bring people together and keep Bihar’s culture alive.
Celebrating these festivals gives us a chance to understand Bihar’s heart and the warmth of its people. No matter where you come from, joining in these celebrations will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for this vibrant land.
