Holidays are a perfect escape from the overload of our daily lives. They allow us to rest, recreate, and meet up with the close people in our lives. The intermittent pauses support work-home balance and mental health and offer a chance to be refreshed again.

Plan your calendar with the details of the government and bank holidays for 2024 so that you have ample time to escape, enjoy the specific festivity of the year, and cherish the memories created.

The influence of festivals like Makar Sankranti, Ganesha Chaturthi, Vijayadashmi, and Diwali embodies the cultural thread of Maharashtra in 2024. These festivities exude passion and energy, including the cultural vitality and peer community of the Maharashtra state.

1. Makar Sankranti (15th January 2024): On this winter solstice, Maharashtra people from every corner of the state celebrate Makar Sankranti with zeal to mark the end of the harsh winter season.
2. Maha Shivaratri (8th March 2024): This Hindu festival honours Lord Shiva on his wedding day and is considered an occasion of immense good fortune.
3. Holi (25th March 2024): Holi, a fantastic festival, also known as the "Festival of Colours", symbolises the end of global winter and the beginning of spring.
4. Gudi Padwa (9th April 2024): Celebrating the Hindu New Year, Marathi people mark the day with joyous festivities, symbolising a new harvest and new beginnings.
5. Ram Navami and Hanuman Jayanti (17th April 2024): Dedicated to celebrating the birth of Lord Ram and his dedicated follower Hanuman.
6. Mahaveer Jayanti (21st April 2024): A Jain Festival dedicated to the birth of Lord Mahavira, one of the most prominent figures in Jainism.
7. Narali Purnima (19th August 2024): A localised festival representing Maharashtra that marks the termination of the monsoon and the formation of the fishing season. In group homage, the fishermen appease the sea god before departing in their awesomely decorated boats.
8. Ganesh Chaturthi (7th September 2024): 10-day-long religious exemption of Hindus celebrating the birth of Ganesha, represented by colourful processions and immersion of idols.
9. Vijayadashami (Dussehra) (12th October 2024): A renowned Hindu celebration on the tenth day of Ashvin month. It stands for the triumph of goodness over evil.
10. Diwali (29th October to 3rd November 2024): Deepawali is the widely celebrated Hindu festival of lights commemorating the triumph of good over evil.

In 2024, Maharashtra's calendar will include plenty of government and bank holidays; hence, residents will have an opportunity to experience different festivals and events. Organising your schedule in advance is crucial so you don't miss these days.

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• Tourist Places to Visit in Maharashtra
• Best Road Trips in Maharashtra