Andaman and Nicobar islands have a unique and wonderful culture. Though there are a large variety of religions and ethnic groups all live here peacefully. Religious harmony is a mark of Andaman and Nicobar islands. Not many festivals are here in Andaman and Nicobar islands. But the few festivals in here whether religious or non religious celebrated equally between all religious groups. Festivals are very colourful in the island. The special festivals of Andaman and Nicobar islands are:
Janmashtami
Among all Janmashtami is the most celebrated in here. It is the celebration of birth of Lord Krishna. In this day devotional songs and hymns are sung in devotion to Lord Krishna. The main attraction Janmashtami is the Raas Leelas or plays enacting the life of Lord Krishna which are organized by the natives. Devotees generally keep a fast till midnight. After midnight special vegetarian that is offered to the deity is shared among the devotees.Devotees paint their home decorate with flowers and lights.
Island Tourism Festival
Island Tourism festival is a ten day long festival organized by the Andaman and Nicobar administration every year. These ten days the island is in a festive mood. The festival is eventful with dance, drama, exhibitions, art displays, aqua sports and parasailing. Within these ten days one can get to know about the wonderful culture, the languages, religions, customs and beliefs of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The festival is conducted mainly during December and January. Other attractions of Island festivals are Magic show, Puppet show, Floating restaurant, Baby show, Dog show, Canoe race, Scuba diving etc. The festival is mainly to promote the tourism of Andaman and Nicobar islands.
Subhash Mela
Subhash Mela is celebrated to commemorate birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.This is organized on January every year. This is a week long cultural programmes.
Vivekananda Mela
This is organised at the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. Vivekananda Mela is conducted at Neil Island every year January.
Block Mela
Block Mela conducted at Diglipur during January and February highlights the developments that have taken place in the rural areas. This Mela also displays the typical rural life of these islands.
