Festivals in Madhya Pradesh in October 2025
Madhya Pradesh is a vibrant state where festivals bring together the spiritual and cultural essence of the region. October 2025 is a particularly festive month, featuring celebrations rooted in Hindu traditions and local customs. From Navratri and Dussehra to regional observances like Karwa Chauth, each festival captures unique rituals and stories that add to the state’s rich cultural heritage.
Read More About Hindu Philosophy
1. Navratri (October 1 – October 9, 2025)
Navratri, dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga, is celebrated with grandeur across Madhya Pradesh. Devotees perform rituals, sing bhajans, and engage in Garba dances to honor different forms of Durga, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Rituals and Observances:
- Durga Puja and Kalash Sthapana: The festival begins with Kalash Sthapana, symbolizing the goddess’s arrival.
- Garba and Dandiya Raas: These traditional dances, especially popular in Ujjain and Indore, attract large gatherings.
- Navami Homa: On the ninth day, the Navami Homa ritual is performed to seek blessings for prosperity and happiness.
2. Dussehra (October 10, 2025)
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, marks the end of Navratri. In Madhya Pradesh, Dussehra is celebrated by burning effigies of Ravana, symbolizing the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana.
Rituals and Observances:
- Ramlila Performances: Plays depicting the life of Rama are performed in cities like Bhopal and Gwalior.
- Processions and Fireworks: Effigies of Ravana are paraded and set ablaze, signifying the defeat of evil.
3. Karwa Chauth (October 8, 2025)
Karwa Chauth is an important festival for married Hindu women in Madhya Pradesh. Women observe a day-long fast, praying for the longevity of their husbands.
Rituals and Observances:
- Sargi: Before dawn, women consume a pre-dawn meal, known as sargi, given by their mothers-in-law.
- Evening Puja and Moon Viewing: Women gather in groups to perform the Karwa Chauth puja and break their fast upon sighting the moon.
4. Sharad Purnima (October 6, 2025)
Sharad Purnima, celebrated on the full moon night, is a festival dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi. This festival holds a special place in Madhya Pradesh’s local customs.
Rituals and Observances:
- Kheer Offering: Devotees prepare kheer, which is left under the moonlight and consumed the next morning, symbolizing prosperity.
- Night-long Vigil: Devotees often spend the night in prayer, celebrating with songs and stories about Lord Krishna.
5. Ahoi Ashtami (October 13, 2025)
Ahoi Ashtami is observed by mothers for the well-being of their children. This day is marked by fasting, prayers, and storytelling about the goddess Ahoi Mata.
Rituals and Observances:
- Fast and Worship: Mothers observe a fast from sunrise to moonrise, offering prayers to Ahoi Mata.
- Ahoi Mata Stories: Families gather to listen to stories of Ahoi Mata, emphasizing family well-being and prosperity.
