FESTIVALS & CULTURE

            Andaman and Nicobar Islands have an unique culture, where all religions, languages, ethnic groups live in total peace and harmony and hence it is rightly called Mini India. Port Blair has a cosmopolitan character where people of all walks of life live together in peace and tranquility. All major festivals are celebrated with equal zeal and fervour and attended by all religious groups. Certain fairs and festivals, which are special to these islands, are:

Island Tourism Festival A fortnight long festival organized by the Andaman & Nicobar Administration every year (December - January) gives a festive look to the Islands. Govt. agencies and private entrepreneurs from the islands and Mainland India also attend the exhibition organized during the festival.  The exhibition highlights the developmental aspects of these islands. Cultural troupes and artistes of national and international fame are invited to perform during the festival apart from performances by the talents of these islands including tribals. Water sports competitions like Nicobari Hodi race are organized. Other attractions are Magic show, Puppet show, Floating restaurant, Baby show, Dog show, Canoe Race, Scuba Diving etc. The festival projects the image of the islands as an eco-friendly tourist destination.

Subhash Mela - January every year

             Organised in Havelock every year on the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. A week long festival filled with cultural programmes.  

Vivekanada Mela - January every year            

            Organised at Neil Island to celebrate the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekanada.  

Block Mela -  January/February every year

            Held at Diglipur, this highlights the developments that have taken place in the rural areas and displays the typical rural life of these islands.