A Comprehensive Guide to Events and Observances
This guide details the diverse events and observances scheduled for December 2025 in India, covering national significance, cultural festivals, diplomatic and economic discussions, artistic exhibitions, and sporting spectacles. The aim is to provide a comprehensive overview for planning travel and participation.
National Significance & Solemn Observances
December begins with several important national and international observances:
- December 1st: World AIDS Day
- December 2nd: International Day for the Abolition of Slavery
- December 3rd: International Day of Persons with Disabilities
- December 4th: Wildlife Conservation Day
- December 5th: World Soil Day
- December 6th: Mahaparinirvan Din (honoring Dr. B.R. Ambedkar)
- December 7th: Armed Forces Flag Day
The month concludes with Christmas Eve and Christmas Day (December 24-25), celebrated nationwide as a gazetted public holiday.
Cultural Extravaganzas: Festivals Galore
December is a prime month for experiencing India’s diverse cultural heritage:
Rann Utsav
Held in Kutch, Gujarat, from December 1st to February 28th, this is a magnificent desert celebration featuring folk performances, craft bazaars, and white desert camping.
Hornbill Festival
Located in Nagaland from December 1st to 10th, this “Festival of Festivals” showcases the traditions of 17 Naga groups through music, dance, art, and cuisine.
Karthigai Deepam
Celebrated in Tamil Nadu around December 4th, this festival of lights involves adorning homes and temples with numerous clay lamps and diyas.
Hampi Utsav
Held in Karnataka, this event combines spirituality, cultural parades, music, and folk dances against the backdrop of ancient ruins.
Mamallapuram Dance Festival
In Tamil Nadu, this festival features classical dance performances (Kuchipudi, Bharatanatyam, Odissi, Kathak) at the UNESCO-listed Shore Temple.
Kullu Winter Carnival
Himachal Pradesh hosts this event showcasing winter charm, adventure sports, and traditional cuisine.
Cochin Carnival
In Fort Kochi, Kerala, this event marks the beginning of grand New Year celebrations.
Mount Abu Winter Festival
Rajasthan’s festival features folk music and dance.
Bishnupur Festival
West Bengal celebrates its rich heritage.
Theyyam
Kerala offers spiritual offerings through this ritualistic art form.
Diplomacy and Economic Insights
December is also a significant period for political and economic discussions:
- • Parliament Winter Session: Officially commences on December 1st, focusing on legislative and financial matters.
- • Russian President Vladimir Putin’s Visit: Anticipated around December 5th-6th for discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on oil trade, economic diversification, and defense deals.
- • 21st Macroeconomics and Finance Conference: Hosted by the Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research (IGIDR) in Mumbai from December 15th-17th.
- • Annual Economics Conference: Held by Ashoka University in Sonepat, Haryana, on December 15th-16th, covering diverse economic topics, potentially including fiscal policies and the “8th Pay Commission.”
- • PM Modi’s Three-Nation Visit: From December 15th-18th, visiting Jordan, Ethiopia, and Oman to strengthen engagement with the Middle East and Africa.
Artistic Flourish: Exhibitions & Biennales
Art and culture enthusiasts have several key events:
- • Kochi-Muziris Biennale: The sixth edition of this contemporary art festival in Kerala runs until March 31, 2026, featuring art, film, music, theatre, and workshops across 22 venues.
- • “Three Moderns” Exhibition: Held at the Gandhi King Plaza, India International Centre, New Delhi, until December 22nd, showcasing works by Himmat Shah, Krishen Khanna, and Thota Vaikuntam.
- • Serendipity Arts Festival: In Goa around December 12th, offering immersive exhibitions, public art, culinary experiences, music, dance, theatre, and film screenings.
- • The Indian Photo Festival: Hyderabad hosts India’s largest photography festival, including workshops, talks, exhibitions, and portfolio reviews.
Sporting Spectacles: Action-Packed December
December promises a packed sports calendar:
Hockey
- Conclusion of the FIH Men’s Junior World Cup (December 10th)
- FIH Women’s Junior World Cup (December 14th)
Table Tennis
- ITTF Mixed Team World Cup (concluding December 7th)
- WTT Finals (December 10th-14th)
Football
- Super Cup Semis & Final (December 4th & 7th)
Badminton
- Guwahati Masters (December 2nd-7th)
- Odisha Masters (December 9th-14th)
- BWF World Tour Finals (December 17th-21st)
Squash
- HCL Squash Indian Tour (December 1st-5th)
- Squash World Cup XT – Chennai (December 9th-14th)
Chess
- Global Chess League (December 13th-24th)
Marathons
- Pune Marathon (December 14th)
- Tata Steel Kolkata 25K (December 21st)
Cricket
- Sri Lanka Women’s Tour of India (five T20Is from December 21st-30th)
Other Championships
- Boxing, cycling, judo, taekwondo, shooting championships
- 75th Senior National Basketball Championships (December 21st-28th)
Plan Your December Journey
December 2025 in India offers unparalleled diversity, from national observances and vibrant cultural festivals like Rann Utsav and Hornbill, to critical political summits and a packed sports calendar. The country provides an incredible journey for those interested in cultural richness, sporting events, or significant diplomatic moments. Planning an itinerary is recommended to maximize the experience of this dynamic month.
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