MUMBAI: Pokémon GO is bringing back its India-exclusive Festival of Lights celebrations, with Pikachu wearing a saree and Pikachu wearing a kurta returning as the stars of the three-day event.
The celebrations will run from 10 am on 6 November to 8 pm on 8 November 2026, giving Trainers across India opportunities to encounter the festive Pokémon through raids, timed research and special in-game activities.
The gaming platform has also teamed up with Indian content creator Ashish Chanchlani for a special video marking the occasion. In the video, Chanchlani calls the two festive Pikachu variants the best gifts of the season, adding a dose of humour to the campaign.
Both saree- and kurta-clad Pikachu will appear in raids, with Trainers having a chance to encounter their Shiny versions or variants featuring a Special Background.
One of the event’s highlights will be Sparkle O’Clock, during which selected Pokémon will appear more frequently in the wild for five minutes at 6 pm, 6.30 pm, 7 pm and 7.30 pm local time.
The featured Pokémon will include Charmander, Pikachu wearing a saree, Pikachu wearing a kurta, Chinchou, Mareep, Camerupt, Litwick, Lampent, Morelull and Tadbulb. The two Pikachu variants appearing during these periods may feature a Special Background, while Shiny encounters will also be possible.
Lure Modules will have an increased chance of attracting Charmander, Chinchou, Mareep, Camerupt, Litwick, Lampent, Morelull and Tadbulb. These modules will also last three times longer during the event.
Trainers can access branched Timed Research from 6 am on 1 November. Completing the tasks will earn them XP, Stardust, themed stickers and an encounter with either saree- or kurta-clad Pikachu featuring a Special Background. Shiny encounters will be possible.
Event-themed Collection Challenges will also be available during the celebrations. Catching the featured Pokémon will earn Trainers XP and Stardust.
Additional bonuses include stickers featuring the two festive Pikachu variants from PokéStop spins, while some event-themed Pokémon will glow.
The Festival of Lights event is exclusive to Trainers in India. Pokémon GO has advised players to remain aware of their surroundings and follow local safety guidelines while playing.
