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

2002 Festival Calendar

January 1
New Year
January 14
Sankraanthi
March 1
Mahaasivaraathri
April 2
Ugadi
April 11
Sri Raama Navami
May 6
Easwaramma Day
July 13
Guru Purnima
August 19
Sri Krishna Janmaashtami
August 31
Ganesh Chaturthi
September 8
Onam
October 5
Dasara or Vijayadashami 
October 25
Deepaavali
November 8 - 9
Akhanda Bhajan
November 19
Women's Day
November 23
Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba's 78th Birthday
December 25
Christmas