Upcoming Events and Festivals in Mumbai India & Video

Upcoming Events and Festivals in Mumbai India

Table of Contents (Quick Links)

View all our CITY GUIDES

Listen (English voice)

Mumbai India Video

Mumbai, the bustling metropolis of India, is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse festivals. Throughout the year, the city hosts a wide array of events and festivals that showcase its traditions, arts, and cuisine. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, these upcoming events and festivals in Mumbai are not to be missed. Here are ten exciting events to mark on your calendar:

1. Kala Ghoda Arts Festival

The Kala Ghoda Arts Festival is one of Mumbai’s most anticipated events, celebrating art, culture, and heritage. Held in the historic Kala Ghoda precinct of South Mumbai, the festival features a range of activities including art exhibitions, workshops, dance performances, music concerts, and street plays. It showcases the best of Indian and international art forms, making it a must-visit event for art enthusiasts. Don’t forget to explore the vibrant street stalls offering delicious food and unique handicrafts.

  • Art exhibitions: Explore a diverse range of art exhibits showcasing paintings, sculptures, and installations.
  • Workshops: Engage in interactive workshops on various art forms such as pottery, photography, and dance.
  • Dance performances: Witness captivating dance performances by renowned artists, featuring classical, contemporary, and folk styles.
  • Music concerts: Enjoy soul-stirring musical performances ranging from traditional Indian music to fusion and jazz.
  • Street plays: Watch thought-provoking street plays addressing social issues and spreading awareness.

2. Ganesh Chaturthi

Ganesh Chaturthi is a grand festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity and the remover of obstacles. The festival is celebrated with immense fervor and enthusiasm across Mumbai. Elaborate idols of Lord Ganesha are installed in homes and public pandals (temporary structures) for worship. The festival culminates with the immersion of the idols in the Arabian Sea, accompanied by vibrant processions and energetic dance performances.

  • Idol installation: Witness the meticulous creation and installation of beautifully crafted Ganesha idols in homes and pandals.
  • Poojas (rituals): Participate in traditional rituals and prayers offered to Lord Ganesha for blessings and prosperity.
  • Processions: Join the lively processions that accompany the idol immersion, accompanied by drum beats and devotional songs.
  • Dance performances: Experience the energy and enthusiasm of traditional dance forms like Garba and Dandiya during the festival.
  • Street food: Indulge in delicious festive delicacies like modak (sweet dumplings) and puran poli (sweet flatbread).

Mumbai India Image 1: Mumbai India

3. Mumbai International Film Festival

The Mumbai International Film Festival, also known as MIFF, is a prestigious event that showcases the best of Indian and international cinema. Filmmakers, actors, and film enthusiasts from around the world gather to celebrate the art of filmmaking. The festival features screenings of a diverse range of films, including documentaries, short films, and feature films. It also includes panel discussions, workshops, and masterclasses conducted by renowned film professionals.

  • Film screenings: Watch a wide variety of films from different genres, including thought-provoking documentaries and critically acclaimed feature films.
  • Panel discussions: Engage in insightful discussions on various aspects of filmmaking, including storytelling, cinematography, and film financing.
  • Workshops and masterclasses: Learn from experienced filmmakers through interactive workshops and masterclasses on different aspects of the craft.
  • Award ceremonies: Witness the recognition of exceptional talent in the film industry through prestigious award ceremonies.
  • Networking opportunities: Connect with filmmakers, actors, and industry professionals from around the world, fostering collaborations and exchange of ideas.

4. Bandra Fair

The Bandra Fair, also known as the Feast of Mount Mary, is an annual eight-day festival held at the iconic Mount Mary Basilica in Bandra. Devotees from all over the city gather to seek blessings from Mother Mary. The fair features vibrant stalls selling religious artifacts, clothes, accessories, and delectable food items. Cultural performances, music concerts, and a lively carnival atmosphere add to the festivities.

  • Pilgrimage: Join the thousands of devotees who visit the Mount Mary Basilica to offer prayers and seek blessings.
  • Stalls: Explore the colorful stalls offering a wide range of religious items, handicrafts, clothes, and accessories.
  • Cultural performances: Enjoy traditional dance and music performances by local artists, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Mumbai.
  • Carnival rides: Experience the thrill of various amusement rides and games at the fair, creating a joyous atmosphere for all.
  • Food stalls: Indulge in mouthwatering street food and traditional delicacies like vada pav, pav bhaji, and falooda.

Mumbai India Image 2: Mumbai India

5. Mumbai Marathon

The Mumbai Marathon is one of the largest marathons in Asia, attracting professional athletes and running enthusiasts from around the world. The event aims to promote fitness, raise awareness about various social causes, and showcase the spirit of Mumbai. The marathon offers different race categories, including a full marathon, half marathon, and a Dream Run for charity. Thousands of participants run along a scenic route, cheered on by enthusiastic spectators.

  • Full marathon: Witness the determination and endurance of professional athletes as they race through the city, covering a distance of 42.195 kilometers.
  • Half marathon: Cheer on the participants as they complete a challenging 21.097-kilometer course, showcasing their physical prowess.
  • Dream Run: Join the charity run and contribute to various social causes while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and camaraderie.
  • Cheering zones: Support the runners by joining the cheering zones along the route, encouraging them with applause and motivational slogans.
  • Post-race celebrations: Celebrate the achievements of the participants at the lively post-race festivities, filled with music and entertainment.

6. Elephanta Festival

The Elephanta Festival is a two-day cultural extravaganza held on the Elephanta Island, known for its ancient cave temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The festival brings together renowned artists, musicians, and dancers who perform against the backdrop of the mesmerizing Elephanta Caves. The event showcases classical Indian music and dance forms, creating a magical ambiance for the audience.

  • Classical music concerts: Immerse yourself in soul-stirring performances by maestros of classical Indian music, including vocal and instrumental recitals.
  • Dance performances: Witness graceful dance performances in classical Indian dance forms such as Bharatanatyam, Kathak, and Odissi.
  • Illumination of the caves: Experience the caves coming to life with stunning lighting effects, enhancing the beauty and architectural grandeur of the caves.
  • Heritage walks: Take guided tours to explore the historic Elephanta Caves and learn about their significance in Indian art and culture.
  • Food stalls: Delight your taste buds with delicious local cuisine served at the festival, offering a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.

Mumbai India Image 3: Mumbai India

7. Banganga Festival

The Banganga Festival is a unique musical event held at the historic Banganga Tank in Walkeshwar. The festival celebrates Indian classical music and dance forms with performances by renowned artists. The serene atmosphere around the ancient water tank adds to the charm of the event, creating a tranquil setting for the audience to enjoy the performances.

  • Classical music concerts: Listen to soulful renditions of classical ragas by eminent vocalists and instrumentalists, showcasing the rich heritage of Indian music.
  • Dance performances: Witness mesmerizing dance performances by talented artists, featuring classical dance forms like Kathak, Bharatanatyam, and Kathakali.
  • Open-air setting: Experience the unique ambiance of the Banganga Tank, surrounded by ancient temples and serene water, creating a serene and peaceful environment.
  • Devotional atmosphere: Immerse yourself in the spiritual aura of the festival, as the performances pay homage to the rich cultural and religious traditions of India.
  • Heritage walks: Take a stroll around the Banganga Tank and explore the nearby temples, marveling at the architectural beauty and historical significance.

8. Mumbai Shopping Festival

The Mumbai Shopping Festival is a shopaholic’s delight, offering exciting discounts, deals, and a wide range of products to choose from. The festival takes place across various shopping destinations in the city, including malls, markets, and designer boutiques. From fashion apparel and accessories to home decor and electronics, the festival caters to every shopper’s needs.

  • Discounted shopping: Take advantage of the festival’s special discounts and offers, allowing you to indulge in guilt-free retail therapy.
  • Designer collections: Explore the latest fashion trends and designer collections showcased by renowned national and international brands.
  • Art and craft exhibitions: Discover unique handmade products and traditional crafts from different regions of India, supporting local artisans.
  • Food stalls: Refuel during your shopping spree by sampling a variety of delicious street food and international cuisines available at the festival.
  • Entertainment: Enjoy live music performances, fashion shows, and other entertainment activities organized as part of the festival.

9. Mumbai International Music Festival

The Mumbai International Music Festival is a celebration of diverse musical genres, bringing together talented musicians from around the world. The festival showcases a range of musical styles, including Indian classical, Western classical, jazz, rock, and fusion. Concerts and performances are held at various venues across the city, providing a platform for both established and emerging artists.

  • Indian classical music: Experience the soulful melodies of Indian classical music, performed by renowned vocalists and instrumentalists.
  • Western classical music: Enjoy the symphony orchestras, chamber music ensembles, and solo performances by international classical musicians.
  • Jazz and fusion: Groove to the rhythm of jazz and fusion bands, as they combine various musical elements to create a unique sound.
  • Rock and popular music: Attend electrifying concerts by popular rock bands and solo artists, showcasing the vibrant music culture of Mumbai.
  • Music workshops: Participate in interactive workshops and masterclasses conducted by renowned musicians, allowing you to learn and engage with the music.

10. Diwali Festival

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in India. The festival signifies the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. During Diwali, Mumbai transforms into a spectacular sight with beautifully decorated homes, illuminated streets, and vibrant firework displays.

  • Decorations: Admire the intricate and colorful decorations in homes, markets, and public spaces, including rangoli (decorative patterns) and diyas (earthen lamps).
  • Firework displays: Witness dazzling firework displays lighting up the night sky, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle.
  • Delicious sweets: Indulge in a variety of traditional sweets and snacks prepared specially for Diwali, such as ladoos, barfis, and namkeens.
  • Puja (prayers): Participate in the traditional prayers and rituals performed during Diwali, seeking blessings for prosperity and well-being.
  • Exchange of gifts: Share the joy of Diwali by