Authentic traditions: India is a country of cultures with each and every state having its own traditions that have been passed down for generations. Whether it’s a spiritual practice, a folk art, celebration or festival these traditions reveal a lot about the rich heritage of and diversity of India. Here are seven true traditions that you must experience from around the country.

1. Kathakali Dance – Kerala
Kathakali is a classical dance-drama recognized for its extravagant costumes, facial make-up and movements. It is performed predominantly in Kerala and tells stories from Indian epics like the Mahabharata, Ramayana, etc. Kathakali is a mesmerizing cultural experience and nothing beats watching it live.

2. Bihu Festival – Assam
Bihu is a time of celebration in Assam as it marks the Assamese New Year and the beginning of spring. The Bihu tradition includes dances, folk music, and food. The Bihu dance is to be performed in colorful traditional attire and is a lively expression of Assamese culture.

3. Puppet Shows – Rajasthan
Rajasthan’s Kathputli (puppet) shows are rooted in an ancient storytelling tradition. Puppeteers utilize elaborately carved wooden puppets to tell stories of kings, folk heroes, and share moral lessons while weaving music and narration into the show. Puppet shows are still a form of entertainment today in many rural areas of Rajasthan.

4. Durga Puja – West Bengal
In Kolkata, Durga Puja represents much more than a festival: it is a tradition that combines religion with art and community participation. The city, its streets, homes, and parks become a brilliant canvas for myriad majestic, temporary pandals, earthen idols, art, cultural performances, rites of passage experiences, and so much more. If you can only see one festival, you must see this massive celebration of devotion and creativity!

5. Chhau Dance – Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal
Chhau is an energetic semi-classical martial dance form performed with choreographed movements and elaborate masks. Rooted in tribal identities and traditions, it is performed with specific codes of conduct and decorum, typically at festivals like Chaitra Parva. As a combination of dance, drama, and storytelling, Chhau is a colourful and exciting performance style.

6. Lohri Celebration – Punjab
Lohri remains among the most celebrated harvest festivals in January. It is known for bonfires, folk songs, and traditional dances including Bhangra and Gidda. It also acknowledges and celebrates the agrarian identity and roots of Punjab, and is typically a joyous community-building occasion.

7. Yakshagana – Karnataka
Yakshagana is a traditional form of theatre similar to opera or ballet, but with dance, music, dialogue, and costume together. Originating in coastal Karnataka, you will typically find it enacted in open fields at night and displaying dramatic mythological stories.

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Experiencing all of these traditions will touch you closer to the heart of India’s cultural soul, and each offers a rich story of culture, art, and community.

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