Must-visit Mumbai Festivals and Fairs

Mumbai needs no introduction! Lively and thronging with high spirits around every nook and corner, the city leaves its visitors mesmerised by the sheer energy in the air. That being said, there are multiple events and festivals which are unique to Mumbai that deserve special mention. Let us take a look at the top 5 Mumbai fairs and festivals to attend when you're in the city.

Ganesh Chathurthi

Celebrated with great pomp and grandeur across India, Ganesh Chathurthi, also known as Vinayaka Chathurthi, is something special to Mumbaikers. This 10-day festival that marks the birth of Lord Ganesh witnesses large processions around a carriage of the idol, filled with songs, aartis, drum beats, colourful powder, firecrackers and boundless celebration. Every other street in Mumbai has a gala going on with huge temporary structures that house beautiful idols of many sizes and colours. All households also have an idol in their prayer rooms for worship. The most famous Ganpati in Mumbai to visit during this time is, without a doubt, Lalbaugcha Raja. While other states also celebrate this event, Lord Ganesh is considered the patron saint of this city. Now you know why it is such a massive festival here.

Elephanta Festival

A festival that began in 1989, Elephanta Festival creates a platform where all the varied dance forms of India are showcased. It is an iconic attraction of Mumbai that celebrates the immense talent and heritage we harbour. Celebrated over two days in Elephanta Islands - A UNESCO World Heritage Site, 10 km off Mumbai Harbour, the locale is lit up to highlight the intricate sculptures and giant pillars of the temple that acts as the backdrop. Dancers and performers bring their talents to life, winning the crowds over with incredible shows. Lord Shiva, who is the main deity of worship, also becomes a spectator of the proceedings as the Maheshmurti idol present at the main cave of the island becomes the backdrop of the performances!

Mumbai International Film Festival

Started in the year 1990, Mumbai International Film Festival is organised every two years by the Films Division, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India. It is a platform for non-feature films to be screened, where film enthusiasts come together and enjoy true masterpieces of the motion picture. With special focus on documentaries, short films and animation, this Mumbai fair is actually one of the most desired platforms in South Asia in the cinematic world. Luckily, this year - 2022, happens to be the 17th edition of the film festival which is hosted from 29th May to 4th June.

Kala Ghoda Festival

Touted as the biggest festival celebrating art, culture and heritage, the Kala Ghoda Festival in Mumbai should not be missed! The Kalaghoda precinct near M.G. Road, where this Mumbai festival is hosted, can be easily spotted. Its streets are marked by shops and stalls of all shapes and sizes, lined up side by side. They sell clothes, handicrafts, apparel, art, home decor and of course, also feature food stalls of all varieties. While there are live painting sessions and engaging stalls for visitors, the main attractions, as always, are the art installations that literally make you go 'wow'. There are also plenty of events that you will love, like stand up acts, theatre, musical and dance performances, movie screenings and even workshops to keep you busy!

Coconut Festival (Narali Poornima)

The Coconut Festival, also known as Narali Poornima, is an interesting festival that may not be as widely known as the rest, but is all the fun and excitement that you need. The story behind this festival begins with the fishing communities in Daman and Diu, and the coastal regions of Maharashtra. In preparation for the upcoming fishing season, they offer coconuts, considered the purest and most auspicious of offerings to the sea god Varuna for good tidings, great catch and calm seas. Even golden coconuts are offered by some communities. On this day, traditional food like narali bhaat (coconut rice) and naralachi karanji (a sweet), featuring coconut as the hero element, is prepared and served. The men wear traditional lungis and a cap, while the womenfolk drape their sarees in the special Nauvari Maharashtrian style, and enrich themselves with gold ornaments. Before the coconut is offered to the sea, they also perform a traditional dance that depicts the movement of the world that they witness in their daily lives as fisherfolk.

All in all, these Mumbai festivals and fairs are vibrant, lively and most importantly super fun, and that's what makes this city so unique too. Another unique experience that you should not miss out on, during your Mumbai trip, is a stay at Ramada Plaza Palm Grove, Juhu Beach. It is one of the best 5-star hotels in Juhu with sea-facing rooms, that proffer an amazing stay that ties in all these festivities with a comfortable place to kick back, relax and sleep!