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India, often referred to as the land of <keyword id="15246" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="festivals" source="Orion">festivals</keyword>, boasts a diverse tapestry of celebrations that showcase the rich cultural heritage and traditions of its people. Among the multitude of <keyword id="20672365" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="festivals-celebrated-across-the-country" source="Orion">festivals celebrated across the country</keyword>, there are some truly unique ones that stand out for their distinctiveness and regional significance. Let's take a journey through India to explore some of these extraordinary festivals: <keyword id="20672363" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="lathmar-holi" source="keywords">Lathmar Holi</keyword> (Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh) Lathmar Holi is a playful and boisterous festival celebrated in the town of Barsana, Uttar Pradesh. Unlike traditional Holi celebrations where people joyously splash colors on each other, Lathmar Holi has a unique twist. Here, women playfully chase and "beat" men with sticks, reenacting the legendary love story of Lord Krishna and Radha. The festival is marked by laughter, music, and camaraderie, making it a truly memorable experience. <keyword id="86993" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Jallikattu" source="Orion">Jallikattu</keyword> (Tamil Nadu) Jallikattu is an ancient bull-taming sport celebrated primarily in the state of Tamil Nadu during the Pongal festival. Brave participants attempt to tame ferocious bulls by grabbing their humps and horns. The event symbolizes courage and valor and is deeply ingrained in Tamil culture, attracting spectators from far and wide. <keyword id="2741872" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Hemis-Festival" source="Orion">Hemis Festival</keyword> (Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir) The Hemis Festival is a vibrant Buddhist celebration held annually at the Hemis Monastery in Ladakh. It commemorates the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. The festival is characterized by colorful masked dances, traditional music performances, and the unveiling of sacred thangkas (religious tapestries), attracting devotees and tourists alike. <keyword id="851515" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Hornbill-Festival" source="Orion">Hornbill Festival</keyword> (Nagaland) The Hornbill Festival is a cultural extravaganza held in Nagaland, showcasing the diverse traditions and customs of the Naga tribes. Named after the Indian hornbill bird, the festival features indigenous music, dance performances, art exhibitions, and culinary delights, providing a glimpse into Naga heritage and way of life. <keyword id="78069" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Rann-Utsav" source="Orion">Rann Utsav</keyword> (Gujarat) Rann Utsav is a vibrant festival celebrated in the vast expanse of the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat. The festival highlights the unique landscape, culture, and craftsmanship of the region, with activities such as camel safaris, cultural performances, handicraft exhibitions, and traditional folk dances, making it a mesmerizing experience for visitors. Rural Olympics (Punjab) The Rural Olympics, also known as the Kila Raipur Sports Festival, is a unique event held in the village of Kila Raipur in Punjab. It showcases traditional rural sports and competitions, including bullock cart races, tractor races, kabaddi matches, and wrestling bouts, attracting participants and spectators from all over the country. <keyword id="44513" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Rath-Yatra" source="Orion">Rath Yatra</keyword> (Odisha) Rath Yatra, celebrated primarily in Puri, Odisha, is a grand procession where massive chariots carry idols of Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra to their temple. It attracts millions of devotees, symbolizing the journey of the deities to visit their aunt's temple. These festivals, each unique in its own right, offer a glimpse into the diverse cultural tapestry of India, bringing together people from different backgrounds to celebrate and rejoice in the spirit of unity and harmony. From the colorful streets of Barsana to the tranquil valleys of Ladakh, these festivals showcase the vibrant mosaic of traditions and customs that make India truly special. Note: The article is based on content generated by AI models like Bard and Chatgpt.

From Lathmar Holi to Jallikattu: India's most unusual festivals

​It is that time of the year again. The riotous merry-making will kick off soon with the beating of the dhak. After all, what is <keyword id="6357908" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Durga-puja">Durga Puja</keyword> without the dhakis and the dhunuchi dance, the lip-smacking prasad and the sindoor khela (vermillion splashing)? Then comes the grand finale of <keyword id="48284" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="navratri">Navratri</keyword> – the <keyword id="6494550" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Dussehra">Dussehra</keyword> festival – and the colourful, life-size effigies of demon king <keyword id="42776" type="PERSON" weightage="80" keywordseo="Ravana">Ravana</keyword> go up in flame, lighting up the night sky. <keyword id="188" type="ENTERTAINMENT" weightage="100" keywordseo="Diwali">Diwali</keyword>, the <keyword id="3378" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Festival-of-lights">festival of lights</keyword>, follows close. With magnificent lightings decorating every corner, million candles burning and breathtaking fireworks on display – could there be anything more spectacular? 
 It is an extravagant celebration year after year that never fails to impress. You must have done the rounds already – shopping till you drop, chomping through gourmet food, visiting crowd-spewing vacation spots, meeting <keyword id="343" type="ENTERTAINMENT" weightage="80" keywordseo="Friends">friends</keyword> and relatives, and revelling at teen patti parties on your Diwali night out. 
 
Been there, done that but still want to do something different? Here is a list of six must-do’s that can make these festival days totally different. Try them out and tell us how you feel. 
 
Take a thrill pill: Break away and open up. Do something you have never tried before. How about a lesson in paragliding, bungee jumping or salsa? Or try and find some unexplored trekking routes and feel like a second Livingstone, trudging up and down. A life without adventure is bound to get stale. So create your own thrill story and live it – but do it safely. Get professional trainers who will help you out. 
 
Pamper yourself: Do you always come last on your priority list? Just reverse that and label yourself ‘top priority’ this time. Nothing relaxes us more than ‘living’ life in our own way. So sleep late without worrying about office. Get a makeover done at a spa/salon. Chill out with your favourite drink. Play with the cat. Or order yourself a sumptuous dinner. Try all these and more that will make you feel pampered. 
 
Help out: A lot of people out there could really do with a little help. So take the first step and do some volunteer work. Teach the street kids; raise funds for NGO projects or donate a little for a cause close to your heart. Our heart went out to the home-maker who had gone door-to-door and collected old woollens to help street kids fight the Delhi cold. 
 
Go for a drive: Drive slowly – let the journey sink into you. A soak in the rain, sun &amp; dust, a drink of adrak wali chai (ginger tea), a picnic lunch on the grass, an evening stroll under the stars – the to-do list simply gets longer until you are exhausted. But that’s the way to live a life without traps. 
 
Have fun with food: If you are fond of fine-dining, plan things a bit ahead. So that you have enough cash and a cosy corner table to spend some gourmet time at your favourite joint. Otherwise, go cross-country to discover the many traditional foods India has to offer. Better still, dig up the old family recipe book and cook some of the dishes you loved as a kid. They will bring back priceless memories. 
 
Hugs are in, try them: Chuck your smartphone. Go and meet whom you wanted to meet for a long time, but never had the time. No video chat or phone call can replace that warm handshake and the tight hug, some tears and laughter together. That’s the stuff human connects are made of.

Tired Of Festival
Routines? Six Things You Can Do To Pep Up Your Life

From Holi to Christmas  – Important festival dates in 2024

<ul><li>Odisha celebrates <keyword id="682718" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Raja-festival">Raja festival</keyword> starting today.</li><li>The 3-day long festival celebrates <keyword id="555572" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Menstruation">menstruation</keyword> and womanhood. </li><li>It also signifies the onset of monsoon in the state. </li></ul>Though the country still struggles with taboos related to menstruation, the Indian state of Odisha commenced a 3-day long festival celebrating menstruation and womanhood. The Raja festival is celebrated by and for, women and girls. According to myths, during these three days of the Raja (pronounced raw-jaw) festival Mother Earth or Bhudevi undergoes menstruation. On the fourth day, a ceremonial bath takes place. Also called Mithuna Sankranti, which means the beginning of the Mithuna month, it signifies the first showers of monsoon in the state which readies the soil for productivity. During the festival, women and girls from across the state buy new clothes, play games and celebrate it by taking a break from work and routine. Agricultural work too comes to a standstill during these days. Almost every other household will adorn a swing, for the recreation of women and girls to enjoy during the festival. This festival has also become a talking point on social media lauding Odisha’s cultural heritage. This celebration means that it doesn’t shy away from the topic and mention of menstruation. In India, menstruation is still a taboo and women still fight many stigmas some of which keep them away from kitchens and places of worship. See Also: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/world-menstrual-hygiene-day-indian-startups-that-are-working-on-menstruation/articleshow/69540331.cms">In a country where menstruation is still a taboo, Indian startups are breaking stereotypes</a>

Amidst taboos against menstruation, this Indian state celebrates it with a 3-day long festival

<ul><li><keyword id="10293880" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="tata-tea-leaf" source="Orion">Tata Tea Leaf</keyword> has launched a special <keyword id="60705" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="chhath-puja" source="Orion">Chhath puja</keyword> pack and has also associated with Bejod, OTT platform of Champaran Talkies for the Chhath puja 2021 video song. </li><li>The Chhath Puja song for 2021 by Bejod is built on the concept of ‘Chhath from Home’ keeping in mind the current pandemic situation.</li></ul> Tata Tea Leaf revels in the spirit of <keyword id="30033" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="bihar" source="Orion">Bihar</keyword> and <keyword id="6360371" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="jharkhand" source="Orion">Jharkhand</keyword>’s most popular festival- The Chhath Puja, with an integrated campaign to evoke regional pride. As part of the campaign, Tata Tea Leaf launched a special Chhath puja pack and has also associated with Bejod, OTT platform of Champaran Talkies for the Chhath puja 2021 video song. <div type="Youtube" id="JEMSUqcRn_U" title="Chhath Geet 2021 | छठ गीत 2021 Vol.06 Bejod | NITU CHANDRA SRIVASTAVA | NITIN NEERA CHANDRA" thumbUrl="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/JEMSUqcRn_U/mqdefault.jpg"></div> The brand takes immense pride in showcasing and celebrating the rich culture and heritage of Bihar and Jharkhand. As a chai specifically made for Bihar and Jharkhand, Tata Tea Leaf understands the regional nuances and has developed a campaign to celebrate the much high-spirited festival which comes with all its grandness and vibrancy, Chhath Puja. The special Chhath Puja pack highlights the elements of the festival and brings alive its true essence. The yellow colour pack radiates with the festive images and truly reflects the emotions attached with Chhath Puja. The pack has been designed keeping in mind the small details associated with the festival to evoke a sense of pride among the people of Bihar and Jharkhand. To make the celebration grander, the brand has associated with Bejod second time for the Chhath Puja Video. The Chhath Puja song for 2021 by Bejod is built on the concept of ‘Chhath from Home’ keeping in mind the current pandemic situation. <keyword id="5414634" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="puneet-das" source="Orion">Puneet Das</keyword>, President, Packaged Beverages, TATA Consumer Products, said, “Chhath Puja is the biggest and most renowned festival celebrated across Bihar and Jharkhand. Tata Tea Leaf celebrates the festive spirit associated during this time with traditional elements associated with the festival. The special <keyword id="12488558" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tata-tea-leaf-chhath-puja" source="Orion">Tata Tea Leaf Chhath Puja</keyword> pack brings alive the true spirit of the festival. Our association with Bejod for Chhath Puja is a one of its kind initiative to connect with the consumer by being part of the festivity. TATA Tea Leaf’s Chhath Puja campaign aims to foster the festive feel over a cup of tea, that is made specially for people of that region while celebrating with the entire family.” Credits: · Production house - Bejod, OTT platform of Champaran Talkies · Director &amp; Editor: Nitin Neera Chandra · Producer: Neetu N Chandra, Nitin Neera Chandra

Tata Tea Leaf launches a new video and pack before Chhath puja

<ul><li>House of Pataudi’, an ethnic wear brand, is co-owned by Myntra, <keyword id="333" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Saif-Ali-Khan">Saif Ali Khan</keyword> and Exceed Entertainment.</li><li>The film emphasizes the joy of celebrating festive traditions with loved ones and is set in the auspicious occasion of <keyword id="6357908" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="durga-puja">Durga Puja</keyword>. </li></ul>Ahead of the <keyword id="10055257" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="big-fashion-festival">Big Fashion Festival</keyword>, Myntra has released a campaign featuring brother-sister duo, Saif and <keyword id="6356056" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="soha-ali-khan">Soha Ali Khan</keyword> tugging at the heartstrings as they pay tribute to one of the most awaited festivals, Durga Pujo, an occasion to celebrate over a period of 5 days, with lip-smacking food and memorable moments with family. The brand film, a part of the campaign, aptly re-creates the present scenario, with countless families celebrating the festive season through video calls, thereby striking an emotional chord with the audience, while underscoring the value of the right attire to enhance any festive celebration and make moments special. The campaign is set to run from 3rd October, to 22nd October, with Myntra well poised to leverage its leadership position in the occasion-wear category among shoppers, ahead of the festive season. The protagonists in the ad-film, Saif and Soha, actively exemplify the richness of the House of Pataudi collection with their presence, embellished in grace and elegance. The film emphasizes the joy of celebrating festive traditions with loved ones and is set in the auspicious occasion of Durga Puja. It opens with Saif, who is on a video call with Soha, cooking the quintessential Bengali Bhoger Khichdi. Though satisfied with his meal, he cannot shake off the feeling of missing a key ingredient. The brother-sister duo debate over what it could be, before Saif reveals it by opening the Myntra app on his phone. Soha soon receives and then unwraps a Myntra box to get pleasantly surprised by a gorgeous ‘House of Pataudi’ dress. Realizing it was Saif who sent the gift, Soha is quick to show off her elegance in the ‘House of Pataudi’ Salwar. Saif, himself draped in a luxurious ‘House of Pataudi’ Kurta, was missing the ethnic touch that comes with such occasions during the festive season and the film closes out with the siblings sharing a light-hearted moment. A voiceover at the end encourages all viewers to try something new this Durga Puja <div type="Youtube" id="iaIgocW2nSM" title="Joy. Laughter. Delicious food. And festive style, with Myntra!" thumbUrl="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/iaIgocW2nSM/mqdefault.jpg"></div> Speaking on the occasion, Harish Narayanan, Head of Marketing, Myntra, said, “Our Durga Pujo campaign will establish a deeper connection with the audience while emphasizing the role of Myntra in life’s special moments, specifically during this festive season. While social celebrations and gatherings may be rare, people in the country who have been in the confines of their homes are looking for basking in festive cheer and celebrating the festival in style, looking their best. As always, Saif brings a great degree of charm and depth to the ‘House of Pataudi’ brand, while Soha strongly complements that with her elegance and feminine touch.” Commenting on the brand campaign, Saif Ali Khan, said “I take great pride in elevating and upholding the rich and varied traditions of our great country and the Pataudi and Tagore heritage. Durga Puja and all other cultural aspects of Bengal always sing to my heart as it reminds me of family and tradition. Given any situation, people have to hold their families closer than ever, and I am certain our film will connect with people across India at a deeper level.” Speaking on the brand campaign, Afsar Zaidi- Founder and Enabler, Exceed Entertainment, said “With the Pujo film, Myntra through its House of Pataudi film, kickstarts the festive spirit in a year that has been so challenging. While this year, celebrations have taken a new form, family bond and togetherness have been redefined and that’s what the film continues to offer.” With the goal of reaching and engaging a wider audiences across India, the campaign will be run through a diversified media mix, which includes digital and social media channels, as well as running ads on TV ahead of the festive season. As a part of Myntra’s efforts to drive higher brand relevance with a diversified, market-contextual approach to its campaigns, this campaign will be run focusing on the East markets.

Saif Ali Khan's House of Pataudi and Myntra launch their Durga Pujo campaign

Diwali is a five day long festival in India. Diwali is a vibrant festival celebrated with the biggest enthusiasm by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and others in India. Irrespective of the regional differences in how Diwali is celebrated, the top highlights of Diwali are lighting lamps, wearing new clothes, sharing sweets, feasting, bursting crackers and performing pujas at homes and business places. <keyword id="31818" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Diwali-Puja">Diwali puja</keyword> is said to bring prosperity, wellness, wealth and happiness into homes. <keyword id="8263943" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="diwali-schedule">Diwali Schedule</keyword> 2019 The five day long Diwali celebrations start on October 25, 2019 and conclude on October 29, 2019. The list of events for Diwali are as follows. October 25, 2019 (Friday) Dhanteras October 26, 2019 (Saturday) Chhoti Diwali or Naraka Chaturdashi or Hanuman Puja October 27, 2019 (Sunday) Main Diwali Festival and Lakshmi puja October 28, 2019 (Monday) Govardhan Puja October 29, 2019 (Tuesday) Bhai Dooj The main Diwali festival On the day of Diwali, many people perform Lakshmi puja. This year, the main Diwali festival falls on Sunday, October 27, 2019. The best time for Diwali Lakshmi puja is between 06:43 pm and 08:15 PM on this day. Diwali celebration in households There are several regional variations on how Diwali is celebrated in India. However, the main aspects of Diwali celebrations are notably the same across the country. People clean up their homes, decorate it, draw rangolis, light lamps and perform pujas at homes. Delicious dishes and new clothes are the most integral part of Diwali celebrations. Bursting crackers is a great excitement for families on the day of Diwali. Due to environmental concerns, fireworks and crackers are restricted this year. Hence people are finding some alternative ways to celebrate Diwali with merriment. The importance of Diwali for business communities For many business communities in India, Diwali is the last day of the financial year. Hence, performing Lakshmi puja on this day is considered very auspicious and it becomes a kind of invitation to Goddess Lakshmi to bless the business with prosperity and success during the coming year. The businessmen place the new account books, silver and gold coins and other important tools and things connected to their trade in front of the altar on the day of Diwali puja. Auspicious things to do on Diwali day Diwali day starts with holy bath. It is very auspicious to take bath in the Ganges. People who do not have access to the Ganges waters have a dip in other holy rivers or mix up a few drops of Ganga water in the water they use for bathing and purification rituals. Wear new clothes, share sweets, do charities, burst crackers and socialize with friends and families. Decorate the homes and business places with rangolis, flowers and festoons. Light lamps in the morning and evening and arrange them in different patterns throughout the house and business places. In the evening Pradhosh Kaal on the day of main Diwali celebrations, perform Lakshmi puja and Kuber Puja. Final word about Diwali Diwali is a festival that unites families, friends and people together. This festival refreshes and rejuvenates the human consciousness. Celebrate Diwali in a traditional way and fill your homes and businesses with prosperity and happiness.

Diwali puja time, date, all schedule you need to know

<div class="KonaFilter image-container float_right"><div class="image on-image"><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/news-photo/two-women-share-a-laugh-as-they-drink-their-first-beer-at-news-photo/104238747">Miguel Villagran/Getty Images</a></div></div>Our experts round-up the best <keyword id="6359860" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="60" keywordseo="beer">beer</keyword> and <keyword id="4894" type="ENTERTAINMENT" weightage="60" keywordseo="wine">wine</keyword> festivals from around the world.
Bandol Wine Festival, Provence
The Fête-du-Millésime is a jolly affair in the French manner - a little place letting rip in a big way. Wine growers put on fancy dress to show off the year's vintage straight from the barrel. These aren't finished wines - the rosés and whites, for instance, won't be ready until next spring .
These are the works in progress, and they will indicate how the vintage will turn out. Then, if you wish to tackle proper, bottled Bandol wines, you may visit the Maison des Vins opposite the casino or, as I was doing, go inland to call on the growers.
When? November 30-December 1, 2013 Details: <a href="http://vinsdebandol.com">vinsdebandol.com</a>
Wine Down Under
During the first quarter of the year Australia uncorks its finest wines across Victoria to Tasmania, but it is the verdant plains of South Australia that hold some of the very best, starting with the Crush Festival in the Adelaide Hills, where 30 wineries open up cellar doors. This is followed by the Harvest Festival McLaren Vale, which celebrates the region's finest food, wines, music and art. The climax, however, is the Cellar Door Wine Festival in Adelaide, which offers unlimited tastings from more than 150 wineries across the Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, Coonawarra and the Limestone Coast.
When? January-February 2014 Details: <a href="http://australia.com">australia.com</a>
Mosel wine festivals
Although most European wine festivals are held in the autumn, the partying starts early in the picturesque towns, villages and vineyards lining the banks of the Moselle, with a host of festivals getting under way in the spring. Whether it is celebrating the best of the new wine from the most recent harvest or larger affairs involving local foods, music and the crowning of a wine queen, the region celebrates its finest product in style - and, in vino veritas, shows a gentler side to the Germans at play.
When? The festivals start around Easter and run until the end of September 2014 Details: <a href="http://traben-trarbach.de">traben-trarbach.de</a>
Sherry Festival
The festival celebrating the grape harvest, and autumn in general, combines with the feast of the Nativity of Our Lady in Jerez to provide an excuse for up to three weeks of partying, involving sherry-drinking, horse-riding displays and flamenco dancing. The main events usually open with a grand procession in which the newly crowned Queen of the Vintage, surrounded by "handmaidens", is carted around the town, finally arriving in the Plaza de Arenal.
When? Around September 8 2014 (provisional) Details:<a href="http://turismojerez.com">turismojerez.com</a>
Chianti Wine Festivals
On the second and third long weekends in September (Thursday to Sunday), two of Chianti's main wine enclaves celebrate the forthcoming harvest with street music, food and the opportunity to taste Chianti Classicos from plenty of local producers. Of the two, Panzano's "Vino al Vino" event offers the greatest range of wines and festivities.
When? September 11-14 2014 (Greve); September 18-21 2014 (Panzano). Details:<a href="http://greve-in-chianti.com">greve-in-chianti.com</a> ; <a href="http://vinoalvinopanzano.com">vinoalvinopanzano.com</a>
Munich Oktoberfest
The mother of all beer festivals, this one commemorates the wedding in October 1810 of Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen and now attracts six million visitors a year. The beers, all of which are brewed in Munich, are served only in stonking great litre glasses and are accompanied by roast chicken and giant pretzels. Oompah music and thigh- slapping Bavarians dressed in lederhosen and dirndls are the order of the day.
When: September 20-October 5 2014 Details: <a href="http://oktoberfest.eu">oktoberfest.eu</a> ; <a href="http://muenchen-tourist.de">muenchen-tourist.de</a>
Compiled by Anthony Peregrine, Charles Starmer-Smith, Adrian Bridge, Nick Trend and Lee Marshall

The Best Beer And Wine Festivals In The World

If the snapshots of a frozen Niagara have chilled you to the bones and the gradual dip in mercury at home keeps you shivering, here is the best remedy to beat the last leg of the icy cold <keyword id="46788" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Winter">winter</keyword>. Celebrate <keyword id="6494293" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Lohri">Lohri</keyword> this year with <keyword id="28762" type="ENTERTAINMENT" weightage="100" keywordseo="fire">fire</keyword> and flamboyance – with the beating of dhol, <keyword id="6920" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Bhangra">bhangra</keyword> &amp; <keyword id="465865" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="giddha">giddha</keyword> dancing, blazing bonfires and mithas of traditional sweets. Lohri is a popular <keyword id="404010" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="harvest-festival">harvest festival</keyword>, celebrated all over <keyword id="55424" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Northern-India">Northern India</keyword> in the middle of January, and Monday the 13th is the stipulated date this year. 
 Essentially a <keyword id="2012366" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Rural-festival">rural festival</keyword> held in <keyword id="6354953" type="COMPANY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Punjab">Punjab</keyword>, <keyword id="41646" type="COMPANY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Haryana">Haryana</keyword>, <keyword id="66" type="COMPANY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Delhi">Delhi</keyword> and some parts of <keyword id="6358126" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Himachal-Pradesh">Himachal Pradesh</keyword> and <keyword id="6357972" type="COMPANY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Jammu">Jammu</keyword>, this one celebrates the bountiful harvests as the ravi crops (winter crops including wheat, barley, mustard, <keyword id="56382" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Sesame">sesame</keyword> and peas) are gathered while people unite in thanksgiving and pray for prosperity. Held on the last day of the month Paush, Lohri also marks the Sun’s entry into the northern hemisphere, popularly known as <keyword id="90750" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Uttarayan">Uttarayan</keyword>. This signifies the end of the cold, dark winter days and bonfires are lit to worship the Sun – the eternal spark of life. Lohri melas (festivals) are also held every year to celebrate the occasion. 
 A week before the festival, children start gathering <keyword id="1066921" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="firewood">firewood</keyword> and go from door to door, singing old folk songs and collecting their <keyword id="2012376" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Lohri-loot">Lohri loot</keyword> – a wide variety of scrumptious sweets like <keyword id="2012377" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Rewri">rewri</keyword>, <keyword id="529387" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Gajak">gajak</keyword>, <keyword id="137842" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="jaggery">jaggery</keyword>, <keyword id="116024" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Peanut">peanut</keyword> chikki and <keyword id="6427332" type="COMPANY" weightage="100" keywordseo="TIL">til</keyword> (sesame) barfi. On the D-day, after sundown, people rush to the <keyword id="2012365" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Bonfire-celebration">bonfire celebration</keyword>, followed by a gala evening filled with songs, dances and feasting. The festival also holds great significance for the newlyweds and the newborns whose first Lohri is celebrated with pomp and splendour. 
 This year, too, the Lohri bashes are all set to fire up the festivities in spite of the <keyword id="517425" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="biting-cold">biting cold</keyword> of the past few days. It has been partly cloudy in the national capital of Delhi, along with early <keyword id="49908" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="MORNING-FOG">morning fog</keyword> and a chilly breeze, but the day gets warmer with an occasional burst of sunshine. It has not rained either, as predicted by the MeT department, and the minimum temperature on the Lohri day is expected to hover between 4 and 6°C. Incidentally, the Jaffarpur Kalan area in Delhi has already recorded the lowest minimum temperature of 1.4°C a couple of days ago. The city also witnessed the worst fog in four years, with flight and train operations coming to a standstill. 
 
Such chilly weather means the bonfires must be extra large this time and the celebrations should get bigger as the sun goes down on Monday. Start the ritual with parikrama – circling the bonfire, chanting prayers, singing folk songs and putting in loads of til (sesame), <keyword id="2012380" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Moongphali">moongphali</keyword> (peanuts), <keyword id="2012381" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Chirwa">chirwa</keyword> (puffed rice) and <keyword id="82600" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Maize">maize</keyword> (<keyword id="74000" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Popcorn">popcorn</keyword>) into the fire, as the old custom demands. Some even pour milk and water near the circle of fire. These prayers and offerings to the Sun are said to bring peace, harmony and prosperity throughout the year. When the parikrama is over, it is time to exchange gifts and distribute the prasad or puja offerings that mostly include peanuts, til, gajak, jaggery and other munchies. 
 
 
 
But Lohri also signifies a great celebration of life – dancing, feasting and revelry that bring in good cheer. So it’s time to go balle balle with some dazzling outfits, lively dance numbers, Patiala pegs and lip-smacking <keyword id="33659" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Punjabi-Cuisine">Punjabi cuisine</keyword>. Women can’t go much wrong with the <keyword id="2012402" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Lohri-fashion">Lohri fashion</keyword>, though. A <keyword id="2012403" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Patiala-suit">Patiala suit</keyword> with bright-hued <keyword id="531498" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Phulkari">phulkari</keyword> work or heavily embellished <keyword id="6481130" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="zardozi">zardozi</keyword> designs, matching dupatta and gold/kundan jewellery complete the <keyword id="2012391" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Ethnic-ensemble">ethnic ensemble</keyword> for this occasion. Go for bold colours and bright shades – not only for your outfit but also for your make-up. The more adventurous can always try glitter and rhinestone make-up to add some extra dazzle. Sport a front puff or a chotti (braid) with a parandi (decorative tassel) and walk out as the belle of the ball – ready to bhangra and giddha all evening, till the fire dies down. 
 Those in love with gourmet food are also looking forward to the celebrations. Start your evening with some spicy chat and tikka; wash it down with a Patiala peg or two or some sweet/salty lassi, and move on to a sumptuous dinner of <keyword id="2012392" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Makhani-di-dal">makhani di dal</keyword>, <keyword id="460117" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="sarson-da-saag">sarson da saag</keyword> and <keyword id="2012393" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Makki-di-roti">makki di roti</keyword> (more here on <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/Top-Indian-Foods-For-Your-Palate-Must-try-Items-FromEvery-State/articleshow/22515429.cms">top Indian foods</a>), followed by the traditional dessert – <keyword id="2012394" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Gajar-da-halwa">gajar da halwa</keyword> or <keyword id="2012395" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Mong-dal-da-halwa">mong dal da halwa</keyword>. 
 Although Lohri is mostly celebrated in Northern India, similar festivals are held in the East and the South. In <keyword id="6357783" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="West-Bengal">West Bengal</keyword>, it is <keyword id="42174" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Makar-Sankranti">Makar Sankranti</keyword> on January 14, just a day after Lohri. It is considered as one of the most auspicious days and lakhs of people from all over India take a <keyword id="6365583" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Holy-dip">holy dip</keyword> at the confluence of the river <keyword id="79976" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Ganges">Ganges</keyword> and the <keyword id="55869" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Bay-of-Bengal">Bay of Bengal</keyword>. In <keyword id="28504" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Kerala">Kerala</keyword>, it is <keyword id="38378" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="pongal">Pongal</keyword> from January 13 and the four-day harvest festival marks the start of a <keyword id="2012401" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="New-cycle">new cycle</keyword> as the Sun enters the northern hemisphere. And in <keyword id="6354915" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Assam">Assam</keyword>, people celebrate the <keyword id="523926" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Magh-Bihu">Magh Bihu</keyword> or <keyword id="95767" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Bhogali-Bihu">Bhogali Bihu</keyword> on January 14, an equivalent of Makar Sankranti and Pongal. 
 
With so many festivities coming up in the next few days, we wish all our readers happiness, prosperity, and most importantly, a thawing of the heart. Our emotions freeze up at times; our sensitivity becomes numb and our empathy well often runs dry. So what better time is there than today for a renewal of self? That’s what Lohri or the bonfire celebration is all about – it tells us to thaw out our hearts and celebrate a fresh start, a new cycle of life.

Happy
Lohri! It’s Now Bonfire Time, Folks!

<div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image">Alexandra Beier / Stringer / Getty Images EuropeThere's a whole lot more to the festive celebration than you might think.</div></div></div><ul class="summary-list"><li>The 185th Oktoberfest celebration starts September 22 and runs through October 7.</li><li>The tradition started as an annual way to celebrate the marriage of Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen. The pair were married in 1810.</li><li>Thousands of people gather at Theresienwiese every year to drink beer and honor traditional Bavarian culture.</li></ul>When you think of Oktoberfest, you're probably thinking about three things: Germany, lederhosen, and beer.Whether you've actually been in Munich for the festivities or you've taken part elsewhere around the world, you know it's essentially <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/why-you-shouldnt-go-to-oktoberfest-2015-9">one giant party</a>.It's also been commercialized over the years with lederhosen and dirndl Halloween costumes and Oktoberfest-inspired craft beers.But there's a whole lot more to the festive celebration than you might think. These epic photos will show you just what we're talking about.

50 epic photos from Oktoberfest that prove it's one of the most misunderstood celebrations in the world

<div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table float_right"><div><div class="image on-image">Chris Helgren/Reuters</div></div></div>Each year, Elvis Presley super fans and impersonators from around the world congregate in a single place to celebrate the King in a big way.<a href="http://www.collingwoodelvisfestival.com/">The Festival</a>, which takes place in Collingwood, Canada, is the largest Elvis festival in the world. All things Elvis-themed take over the streets in the form of parades, carnivals, weddings and even midnight performances at the local McDonald's. Take a trip down memory lane at this year's festival celebrating the King, which ended July 26.(Captions by Sarah Jacobs and Reuters)

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