14 November, 2008 (20 Days Ago)

India

In India Children's Day is celebrated on November 14 every year. This date marks the birth anniversary of independent India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru as he was very fond of children. Children's day is celebrated on this day in recognition of his lifelong passion and work for children.

28 October, 2008 (37 Days Ago)

India

The festival of lights, Diwali or Deepavali (as know in South India), is an ancient festival that is celebrated throughout India. The legends behind the festival are as varied as the manner of its celebration, but common to all of them is the theme of the triumph of good over evil. In north India, Diwali celebrates Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after the defeat of the Demon King of Lanka, Ravana, and Lord Rama's coronation as King. In Gujarat, the festival honours Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth; and in Bengal, Diwali is associated with the Goddess Kali. Diwali is celebrated around November, right after Dussehra, another popular festival. Two days before Diwali is called dhan teras (dhan is wealth in Hindi and teras is 13th, to signify the 13th day after the full moon). This day is devoted to the Goddess Lakshmi as it is believed that she pays each house a visit on this day of the year. People hold a Lakshmi puja in commeration of this event. The day before Diwali is celebrated as Chhoti Diwali (small Diwali). This is the day when Hanuman reached Ayodhya to deliver the long-awaited message of Lord Rama's return. On Chhoti Diwali, people socialize and exchange sweets and gifts. There is a prayer in the evening, and the altar is decorated with empty earthen lamps and newly purchased idols. The Diwali festival itself is celebrated the following day with feasting, and of course a ubiquitous lighting of lamps. Diwali symbolizes the victory of light over darkness. Celebrated joyously all over the world, it marks the transition from poor to wealthy, both figuratively and literally.

2 October, 2008 (63 Days Ago)

India

Gandhi Jayanthi is the celebration of the birthday of Mohandas K. Gandhi. Gandhi, affectionately known as the 'Mahatma' or Enlightened Soul, is infamous for being the person to head the movement for India to be a sovereign nation, without the rule of the United Kingdom. The reason why that his efforts to do this are so unique, is because he promoted the principle of Non-violence or Ahimsa, to achieve this feat. Gandhi Jayanthi is recognized by both Indians and non-Indians alike, who respect what Gandhi did for India, and how he achieved this. Celebrations to commemorate Gandhi's birth take place all over the world. It is celebrated in many ways, from special prayers to special formal events, all in honour of Gandhi. Gandhi Jayanthi is celebrated on October 2nd.