All festivals observed by Bharatiyas have a marvelous inner meaning. But men in general view them in terms of external observances and celebrate them with feasts and frolic. These festivals were really intended to be used for the exclusive worship of the Divine, enjoy the bliss of that devotion and overcome pain and sorrow. These holy days were instituted for the purpose of getting rid of ignorance and cultivating right knowledge, the higher wisdom and cosmic consciousness.
- Baba
Sanathana Sarathi, May 1989
From Digest II - A collection of Sri Sathya Sai Baba's sayings

2001 Festival Calendar

January 1
New Year
January 14
Sankraanthi
March 12
Mahaasivaraathri
April 13
Ugadi
April 21
Sri Raama Navami
May 6
Easwaramma Day
July 24
Guru Poornima
August 21
Onam
August 30
Sri Krishna Janmaashtami
September 10
Ganesh Chaturthi
October 15
Dasara - Vijayadashami 
November 4
Deepaavali
November 9 - 10
Akhanda Bhajan
November 19
Women's Day
November 23
Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba's 77th Birthday
December 25
Christmas