March marks the end of the financial year in India and the arrival of the spring season. It features globally recognized days for social causes and some of the most colorful festivals in the world.
International & Global Observances
March 3 – World Wildlife Day
Celebrated to raise awareness of the world’s wild fauna and flora.
March 8 – International Women’s Day
A global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.
March 15 – World Consumer Rights Day
Aims to raise global awareness about consumer rights and needs.
March 20 – International Day of Happiness / World Sparrow Day
Recognizes the importance of happiness in the lives of people and the need for urban conservation of birds.
March 21 – International Day of Forests / World Poetry Day
Highlights the importance of all types of forests and the power of poetic expression.
March 22 – World Water Day
Advocates for the sustainable management of freshwater resources.
March 23 – World Meteorological Day
Commemorates the establishment of the WMO; focuses on weather, climate, and water security.
March 24 – World Tuberculosis (TB) Day
Commemorates the date Dr. Robert Koch announced his discovery of the TB bacillus; aimed at ending the global TB epidemic.
Crack SSC. Lock Your Government Job.
Expert faculty, exam-first strategy, and Kerala’s most trusted SSC coaching—Xylem Learning gets you merit-ready, not just syllabus-deep.
Click HereKey National Observances (India)
March 4 – National Security Day (Rashtriya Suraksha Diwas)
Commemorates the foundation of the National Safety Council; honors the security forces including police, paramilitary, and commandos.
March 12 – Anniversary of the Dandi March
Commemorates the day Mahatma Gandhi began the Salt Satyagraha in 1930.
March 16 – National Vaccination Day
First observed in 1995 when the first dose of Oral Polio Vaccine was given; promotes the importance of immunization.
March 23 – Shaheed Diwas (Martyrs’ Day)
Tribute to the sacrifice of Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev Thapar, and Shivaram Rajguru.
Festivals & Cultural Events 2026
March 3 – Holi (Holika Dahan)
The festival of colors begins with the symbolic burning of Holika.
March 4 – Dhulandi (Holi Play)
The main celebration where people play with colors and water.
March 19 – Chaitra Navratri Begins / Gudi Padwa / Ugadi
Marks the Hindu New Year in various Indian states like Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka.
March 20 – Eid-ul-Fitr (Tentative)
The major Islamic festival marking the end of the fasting month of Ramadan (dates depend on moon sighting).
March 27 – Ram Navami
Celebrating the birth of Lord Rama.
March 31 – Mahavir Jayanti
One of the most important religious festivals for Jains, celebrating the birth of Lord Mahavir.