China's popular tourist destinations are filled with tourists immersing themselves the festive spirit of spring festival holiday to celebrate the 2024 Chinese New Year.

Chinese cities going all out to celebrate 2024 Chinese New Year

Let's take a look at Christmas celebrations from around the world. From the religious Bethlehem to the cold Russia.

Israel-Hamas war: Pope Francis prays for people suffering from war

A 34-year-old woman in China, identified as Song, marked the conclusion of her four-year marriage with a grand divorce celebration. According to the South China Morning Post (SCMP), Song and her friend decorated&nbsp;the venue with red banners proclaiming the end of the marriage and congratulating the "diva" on her single status.

Festivities included symbolic rituals like stepping over a fire basin, a pomelo leaf shower for purification, and a celebratory song.

To capture the entire divorce process, including the moment Song received her separation certificate, she arranged for a photographer. The images and the story of Song's divorce celebration gained attention on social media platform Xiaohongshu, where she expressed feeling unexpectedly happy about the divorce. Her post received significant engagement, amassing 230,000 likes.

Song's divorce, formalised in June, gained widespread attention on Chinese social media platforms.

SCMP reported that the hashtags #divorce and #divorcephotography on Xiaohongshu received billions of views.&nbsp;The woman had discovered her husband's infidelity through a message on his mobile phone, prompting her decision to end the marriage.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/data-lab-chinas-conundrum-falling-marriage-birth-rates-taking-its-economy-for-a-spin-604563">Also read |&nbsp;Data Lab | Chinese neither marrying nor having kids and it's Xi Jinping's new headache. Here's how</a>

<h2>Changing social attitudes towards divorce</h2>

The trend of divorce celebrations and photo shoots reflects an evolving social acceptance of divorce in China.

Yu Jia, an assistant professor at Peking University's Centre for Social Research, told SCMP that statistical data shows an increasing number of women initiating divorces, despite facing stigma. Social tolerance towards divorce is on the rise as it becomes a more common occurrence.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/data-lab-chinas-job-crisis-and-the-curse-of-35-why-are-people-afraid-of-that-age-613006">Also read |&nbsp;Data Lab | China's job crisis and 'the curse of 35’: Why are people afraid of that age?</a>

This celebratory approach to divorce is not unique to China. In May, an Indian woman challenged stereotypes with a unique photoshoot to mark the end of her "bad marriage."

(With inputs from agencies)

A 34-year-old woman in China, identified as Song, marked the conclusion of her four-year marriage with a grand divorce celebration. According to the South China Morning Post (SCMP), Song and her friend decorated the venue with red banners proclaiming the end of the marriage and congratulating the "diva" on her single status.

A 34-year-old woman in China, identified as Song, marked the conclusion of her four-year marriage with a grand divorce celebration. According to the South China Morning Post (SCMP), Song and her friend decorated the venue with red banners proclaiming the end of the marriage and congratulating the "diva" on her single status. Festivities included symbolic rituals like stepping over a fire basin, a pomelo leaf shower for purification, and a celebratory song. To capture the entire divorce process, including the moment Song received her separation certificate, she arranged for a photographer. The images and the story of Song's divorce celebration gained attention on social media platform Xiaohongshu, where she expressed feeling unexpectedly happy about the divorce. Her post received significant engagement, amassing 230,000 likes. Song's divorce, formalised in June, gained widespread attention on Chinese social media platforms. SCMP reported that the hashtags #divorce and #divorcephotography on Xiaohongshu received billions of views. The woman had discovered her husband's infidelity through a message on his mobile phone, prompting her decision to end the marriage. Also read | Data Lab | Chinese neither marrying nor having kids and it's Xi Jinping's new headache. Here's how Changing social attitudes towards divorce The trend of divorce celebrations and photo shoots reflects an evolving social acceptance of divorce in China. Yu Jia, an assistant professor at Peking University's Centre for Social Research, told SCMP that statistical data shows an increasing number of women initiating divorces, despite facing stigma. Social tolerance towards divorce is on the rise as it becomes a more common occurrence. Also read | Data Lab | China's job crisis and 'the curse of 35’: Why are people afraid of that age? This celebratory approach to divorce is not unique to China. In May, an Indian woman challenged stereotypes with a unique photoshoot to mark the end of her "bad marriage." (With inputs from agencies)

'This s*** marriage ends here': Chinese woman throws epic bash to celebrate divorce

Winter's most awaited time Christmas is here! The festivities have started to dissolve in the air UK and France and are gearing up for the celebrations

UK & France gear up for the season of carols and cakes | WION

With shining lamps twinkling light and also a riot of colors India of course is celebrating one of its most important festivals of the year. Diwali opr Deepawali in the northern part of India marks the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya and in the South it marks the birth of Goddess of wealth Laxmi on the new moon day of the Karthk month according to the Hindu calendar. Our next report gets you is what is happening in the holy town of Ayodhya which is the birthplace of Lord Ram.

India celebrates the festival of lights Diwali, also known as Deepawali

Janmashtami was celebrated with much fanfare across the country on Thursday, with thousands of devotees thronging the major temples in Mathura in Uttar Pradesh, the birthplace of Lord Krishna.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted people on the occasion. He wished for new energy and enthusiasm in the lives of "every member of my family", a reference to citizens. "Jai Shri Krishna," Modi added in his post on X. Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited the ISKCON temple located in the East of Kailash, South Delhi and performed a pooja.&nbsp; &nbsp;

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The festival celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna. Thousands of devotees witnessed the "abhishek" (bathing of the deity) ceremony of Lord Krishna at the Radha Raman, Radha Damodar and Gokulanand temples in Mathura in Uttar Pradesh, officials said.

Balram Goswami, the priest of the Radha Damodar temple, said while the festival is celebrated at midnight everywhere, it is celebrated during the day at the three major Mathura temples in accordance with the tradition set up by noted seer Jeev Goshwami nearly 500 years ago.

Since the Shahji temple in Vrindavan also celebrates all the festivals in accordance with the traditions followed at the Radha Raman temple, there too, Janmashtami was celebrated in the morning, the priest of the temple, said.

At the Srikrishna Janmabhumi, the day started with the blowing of shehnai and the sound of conch and drum beats, followed by the "abhishek" of the deity and the distribution of the "charnamrit" among the devotees.

Thousands of devotees paid obeisance to the deities at the Bhagwat Bhavan temple and other temples at the Srikrishna Janmasthan.

Headed by Shailjakant Mishra, the vice-president of the Uttar Pradesh Vraj Tirth Vikas Parishad, state ministers Laxmi Narain Chaudhary and Jaiveer Singh, District Magistrate (DM) Shailendra Singh and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Shailesh Kumar Pandey, a procession was taken out from the Srikrishna Janmasthan. It passed through the main streets of Mathura.

Janmashtami was also celebrated at the Dwarkadhish temple, Vrindavan, Govardhan and Nandgaon. "It is invigorating to witness the Janmashtami celebrations in Mathura. One cannot experience this anywhere else," said Bimalendra Mishra, a resident of Lakhimpur Kheri who travelled to Mathura to participate in the festival.

A large number of foreign devotees of Lord Krishna also paid obeisance to the deities at the ISKCON and Radha Damodar temples in Vrindavan. According to Panchagoda Prabhu, the president of the Krishna Balaram temple (ISKCON, Vrindavan), hundreds of devotees from different countries paid obeisance to the temple deity.

Meanwhile, at least 35 "Govindas" involved in the formation of human pyramids as part of the Dahi Handi celebrations were injured in Mumbai, officials said. The Dahi Handi festival is celebrated on the occasion of Janmashtami. As part of the celebrations, "Govindas" or Dahi Handi participants form multi-tiered human pyramids to break earthen pots filled with curd suspended in the air.

"At least 35 Govindas have suffered injuries during the Dahi Handi celebrations in Mumbai. Four of them have been admitted to hospitals -- two each in the civic-run KEM Hospital at Parel in central Mumbai and the Rajawadi Hospital in Ghatkopar," an official said.

Janmashtami celebrations in Delhi's Dwarka incorporated "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" -- the theme of the upcoming G20 summit in the national capital. Union Minister Smriti Irani and BJP general secretary BL Santhosh attended the celebrations.

In view of India's G20 presidency, the Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan (DJJS) celebrated Janmashtami by incorporating the theme of the upcoming summit of the bloc -- "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" (the entire world is one family) -- according to a statement issued by the organisers. The event was organised on September 6-7 at the DDA ground in Sector 10, Dwarka.&nbsp;

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Janmashtami was celebrated with much fanfare across the country on Thursday, with thousands of devotees thronging the major temples in Mathura in Uttar Pradesh, the birthplace of Lord Krishna.

Janmashtami was celebrated with much fanfare across the country on Thursday, with thousands of devotees thronging the major temples in Mathura in Uttar Pradesh, the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted people on the occasion. He wished for new energy and enthusiasm in the lives of "every member of my family", a reference to citizens. "Jai Shri Krishna," Modi added in his post on X. Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited the ISKCON temple located in the East of Kailash, South Delhi and performed a pooja. VIDEO | Union Home minister Amit Shah offers prayers at ISKCON temple in Delhi on the occasion of Janmashtami. pic.twitter.com/fizM3PZHRL — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) September 7, 2023 × The festival celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna. Thousands of devotees witnessed the "abhishek" (bathing of the deity) ceremony of Lord Krishna at the Radha Raman, Radha Damodar and Gokulanand temples in Mathura in Uttar Pradesh, officials said. Balram Goswami, the priest of the Radha Damodar temple, said while the festival is celebrated at midnight everywhere, it is celebrated during the day at the three major Mathura temples in accordance with the tradition set up by noted seer Jeev Goshwami nearly 500 years ago. Since the Shahji temple in Vrindavan also celebrates all the festivals in accordance with the traditions followed at the Radha Raman temple, there too, Janmashtami was celebrated in the morning, the priest of the temple, said. At the Srikrishna Janmabhumi, the day started with the blowing of shehnai and the sound of conch and drum beats, followed by the "abhishek" of the deity and the distribution of the "charnamrit" among the devotees. Thousands of devotees paid obeisance to the deities at the Bhagwat Bhavan temple and other temples at the Srikrishna Janmasthan. Headed by Shailjakant Mishra, the vice-president of the Uttar Pradesh Vraj Tirth Vikas Parishad, state ministers Laxmi Narain Chaudhary and Jaiveer Singh, District Magistrate (DM) Shailendra Singh and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Shailesh Kumar Pandey, a procession was taken out from the Srikrishna Janmasthan. It passed through the main streets of Mathura. Janmashtami was also celebrated at the Dwarkadhish temple, Vrindavan, Govardhan and Nandgaon. "It is invigorating to witness the Janmashtami celebrations in Mathura. One cannot experience this anywhere else," said Bimalendra Mishra, a resident of Lakhimpur Kheri who travelled to Mathura to participate in the festival. A large number of foreign devotees of Lord Krishna also paid obeisance to the deities at the ISKCON and Radha Damodar temples in Vrindavan. According to Panchagoda Prabhu, the president of the Krishna Balaram temple (ISKCON, Vrindavan), hundreds of devotees from different countries paid obeisance to the temple deity. Meanwhile, at least 35 "Govindas" involved in the formation of human pyramids as part of the Dahi Handi celebrations were injured in Mumbai, officials said. The Dahi Handi festival is celebrated on the occasion of Janmashtami. As part of the celebrations, "Govindas" or Dahi Handi participants form multi-tiered human pyramids to break earthen pots filled with curd suspended in the air. "At least 35 Govindas have suffered injuries during the Dahi Handi celebrations in Mumbai. Four of them have been admitted to hospitals -- two each in the civic-run KEM Hospital at Parel in central Mumbai and the Rajawadi Hospital in Ghatkopar," an official said. Janmashtami celebrations in Delhi's Dwarka incorporated "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" -- the theme of the upcoming G20 summit in the national capital. Union Minister Smriti Irani and BJP general secretary BL Santhosh attended the celebrations. In view of India's G20 presidency, the Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan (DJJS) celebrated Janmashtami by incorporating the theme of the upcoming summit of the bloc -- "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" (the entire world is one family) -- according to a statement issued by the organisers. The event was organised on September 6-7 at the DDA ground in Sector 10, Dwarka. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India celebrates Janmashtami with pomp and gaiety, Home Minister Shah visits ISKCON temple

King Charles III was officially crowned the 40th monarch of the United Kingdom on Saturday, and the streets of London were alive with celebration. However, the royal celebrations are far from finished; members of the royal family will be present at a large coronation feast in the city on Sunday.

King Charles III Coronation: Royal family members to attend coronation lunch | UK

The foreign embassies are painted in hues of togetherness, happiness & joy. As Holi is celebrated across the nation, embassies of different countries extended their wishes on the auspicious occasion.

Foreign embassies painted in hues of togetherness for Holi celebration

North Korea celebrated the 81st birthday of its late leader Kim Jong-il. The Birthday was celebrated with a fish cutting show and cooking competition.

North Korea celebrates late leader's birthday in style

In pics: Strange New Year celebrations around the globe

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Onam is a 10-day long annual rice harvest festival in India, celebrated widely in the state of Kerala and the Malayalee community around the world. But what is the origin of this festival? We tell you everything you need to know.

Onam 2022: What is the festival about and why is it celebrated?

The Hungarian government sacked the head of the national weather department and her deputy, two days after fireworks to honour Hungary’s national holiday was postponed due to storm fears.

Lazlo Palkovic, minister of technology who remits the National Meteorological Service (NMS), dismissed Kornelia Radics and her deputy Gyula Horvath without stating any reasons.

NMS’s forecast of thunderstorms and wind gusts, which led to the cancellation of the fireworks on Saturday, drew criticisms from pro-government media the day before the announcement of dismissal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/holocaust-survivors-criticise-hungarys-orban-over-race-remarks-501184">Holocaust survivors criticise Hungary's Orban over race remarks</a>

The weather agency reported, “misleading information about the extent of the bad weather, which misled the operation team responsible for security,” AFP reported, via an online newspaper Origo.

In its apology on Sunday, the weather forecast agency cited a factor of unpredictability inherited in the profession.

Liberal Andras Fekete-Gyor made light of the situation by joking about it. He said, “They couldn't produce the desired weather, they were fired.” He continued referring to the ruling party, “No, it's not a dictatorship in Central Asia, it's the Hungary of Fidesz,” AFP reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-dont-want-to-be-a-mixed-race-says-hungarian-pm-orban-opposition-lashes-out-500425">Also read | We don't want to be a mixed race, says Hungarian PM Orban; opposition lashes out</a>

However, regarded as the ‘largest fireworks in Europe’, to commemorate Hungary’s millennial state has been postponed till later this week. Though the opposition is opposing this and demands cancellation, calling it a waste of money, especially at a time when the country is dealing with economic difficulties.

In Hungary in 2006 during annual festivities, five people were killed and hundreds were injured after a violent storm struck. More than a million people gathered on the Danube banks to watch and the storm later spread terror.

<o:p>(With inputs from agencies)</o:p>

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The Hungarian government sacked the head of the national weather department and her deputy, two days after fireworks to honour Hungary’s national holiday was postponed due to storm fears.

The Hungarian government sacked the head of the national weather department and her deputy, two days after fireworks to honour Hungary’s national holiday was postponed due to storm fears. Lazlo Palkovic, minister of technology who remits the National Meteorological Service (NMS), dismissed Kornelia Radics and her deputy Gyula Horvath without stating any reasons. NMS’s forecast of thunderstorms and wind gusts, which led to the cancellation of the fireworks on Saturday, drew criticisms from pro-government media the day before the announcement of dismissal. Also read | Holocaust survivors criticise Hungary's Orban over race remarks The weather agency reported, “misleading information about the extent of the bad weather, which misled the operation team responsible for security,” AFP reported, via an online newspaper Origo. In its apology on Sunday, the weather forecast agency cited a factor of unpredictability inherited in the profession. Liberal Andras Fekete-Gyor made light of the situation by joking about it. He said, “They couldn't produce the desired weather, they were fired.” He continued referring to the ruling party, “No, it's not a dictatorship in Central Asia, it's the Hungary of Fidesz,” AFP reported. Also read | We don't want to be a mixed race, says Hungarian PM Orban; opposition lashes out However, regarded as the ‘largest fireworks in Europe’, to commemorate Hungary’s millennial state has been postponed till later this week. Though the opposition is opposing this and demands cancellation, calling it a waste of money, especially at a time when the country is dealing with economic difficulties. In Hungary in 2006 during annual festivities, five people were killed and hundreds were injured after a violent storm struck. More than a million people gathered on the Danube banks to watch and the storm later spread terror. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hungarian government sacks head of weather department and her deputy over misleading forecast

In pics | Thousands of men and women in South Africa celebrate the coronation of new Zulu king

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In pics: Muslims devotees around the world celebrate Eid al-Adha

After two significant gay pride events in Berlin this month, a mosque in the city became the first in Germany to display a rainbow flag in solidarity of the LGBT community. Before Friday prayers, the Ibn Rushd-Goethe Mosque in Berlin’s Moabit neighbourhood flew the flag in the front of a modest crowd that included culture senator Klaus Lederer. The mosque was established five years ago, is the only one in Germany that identifies as liberal and permits men and women to pray together in addition to welcomes LGBT worshippers, reported by AFP.&nbsp;

One of the mosque’s six imams, Mo El-Ketab, stated that one of the main goals of mosque is to offer “a safe space for people who are different, so they too can experience the spiritual side of their lives,” AFP reported.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pride-month-lgbtqia-icons-trailblazers-you-need-to-know-488901">Pride Month: LGBTQIA+ icons, trailblazers you need to know</a>

Several attendees had “Love is Halal” rainbow stickers on their clothing.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Berlin mosque displays pride flag

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Marc-Eric Lehman, a Christopher Street Day (CSD) board member stated that flying the flag conveyed “an incredible strong sign” and it was really important to find a space for religion in LGBT groups. He said, “Queer people can also be religious and believe in God," he said. He further added, “We should not just be talking about safe spaces in bars and clubs in Berlin, we also have to talk about safe spaces in the places of worship."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-pridemonth-the-many-flags-and-colours-of-the-lgbtqia-movement-484228">In Pics | #PrideMonth: The many flags and colours of the LGBTQIA+ movement</a>

This month, Berlin will host two major events to support LGBT community, the Lesbian and Gay Festival on July 16 and 17, and CSD which will take part on July 23.&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)

After two significant gay pride events in Berlin this month, a mosque in the city became the first in Germany to display a rainbow flag in solidarity of the LGBT community.

After two significant gay pride events in Berlin this month, a mosque in the city became the first in Germany to display a rainbow flag in solidarity of the LGBT community. Before Friday prayers, the Ibn Rushd-Goethe Mosque in Berlin’s Moabit neighbourhood flew the flag in the front of a modest crowd that included culture senator Klaus Lederer. The mosque was established five years ago, is the only one in Germany that identifies as liberal and permits men and women to pray together in addition to welcomes LGBT worshippers, reported by AFP. One of the mosque’s six imams, Mo El-Ketab, stated that one of the main goals of mosque is to offer “a safe space for people who are different, so they too can experience the spiritual side of their lives,” AFP reported. Also read | Pride Month: LGBTQIA+ icons, trailblazers you need to know Several attendees had “Love is Halal” rainbow stickers on their clothing. Watch | Gravitas: Berlin mosque displays pride flag Marc-Eric Lehman, a Christopher Street Day (CSD) board member stated that flying the flag conveyed “an incredible strong sign” and it was really important to find a space for religion in LGBT groups. He said, “Queer people can also be religious and believe in God," he said. He further added, “We should not just be talking about safe spaces in bars and clubs in Berlin, we also have to talk about safe spaces in the places of worship." Also read | In Pics | #PrideMonth: The many flags and colours of the LGBTQIA+ movement This month, Berlin will host two major events to support LGBT community, the Lesbian and Gay Festival on July 16 and 17, and CSD which will take part on July 23. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. (With inputs from agencies)

Pride month: Berlin mosque flies rainbow flag to support LGBT communities

In pics: Portland’s Rose Festival returns after two years of Covid hiatus

In pics: Final touches as UK’s village prepares for queen’s Platinum Jubilee party

Explained: What is Eid al-Fitr? Meaning behind the end of Ramadan 2022

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In pics: Millions of people travel back home in Indonesia to celebrate Eid al-Fitr

Germany's iconic&nbsp;Oktoberfest&nbsp;beer&nbsp;festival&nbsp;will once again take place in Munich in 2022 after being cancelled two years running due to the coronavirus, the city's mayor said Friday.

The&nbsp;Oktoberfest&nbsp;would be held "without conditions or restrictions", Munich mayor Dieter Reiter told a press conference.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-votes-overwhelmingly-in-favour-of-supplying-heavy-weapons-to-ukraine-amid-ongoing-conflict-474643">Germany votes overwhelmingly in favour of supplying heavy weapons to Ukraine amid ongoing conflict</a>

The world-renowned knees-up &nbsp;drew around six million visitors annually before the pandemic. It was cancelled in 2020 for the first time since World War II after the outbreak of the virus.

The&nbsp;festival, usually held between September and October, was cancelled again in 2021 as Germany battled consecutive deadly waves of the virus.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Global Headlines: Germany defends gas purchase from Russia

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Since then, pandemic "conditions have changed", Reiter said, noting that the healthcare system was no longer under significant stress from the coronavirus.

"I hope the situation does not get worse in the autumn and that the&nbsp;festival&nbsp;will not have to be called off at the last minute," Reiter said.

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Most Covid curbs have been lifted in Germany, including the requirement to wear masks in shops and schools, while plans to introduce a vaccine mandate were dropped.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has cast a shadow over similar springtime festivities in Bavaria, where the subject has been hotly debated.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-pms-visit-german-minister-says-it-is-in-indias-interest-to-stop-ukrainian-war-474499">Ahead of PM's visit, German minister says ‘it is in India’s interest to stop Ukrainian war’</a>

Cancelling the&nbsp;Oktoberfest&nbsp;as a result of the war "could not be justified", Reiter said, while sharing his sympathies with Ukraine and Munich's twin city Kyiv.

"Nobody can tell what the situation will be in autumn" with the war, the mayor said.

Germany's iconic Oktoberfest beer festival will once again take place in Munich in 2022 after being cancelled two years running due to the coronavirus, the city's mayor said Friday.

Germany's iconic Oktoberfest beer festival will once again take place in Munich in 2022 after being cancelled two years running due to the coronavirus, the city's mayor said Friday. The Oktoberfest would be held "without conditions or restrictions", Munich mayor Dieter Reiter told a press conference. Also read | Germany votes overwhelmingly in favour of supplying heavy weapons to Ukraine amid ongoing conflict The world-renowned knees-up drew around six million visitors annually before the pandemic. It was cancelled in 2020 for the first time since World War II after the outbreak of the virus. The festival, usually held between September and October, was cancelled again in 2021 as Germany battled consecutive deadly waves of the virus. Watch | Gravitas Global Headlines: Germany defends gas purchase from Russia Since then, pandemic "conditions have changed", Reiter said, noting that the healthcare system was no longer under significant stress from the coronavirus. "I hope the situation does not get worse in the autumn and that the festival will not have to be called off at the last minute," Reiter said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: Most Covid curbs have been lifted in Germany, including the requirement to wear masks in shops and schools, while plans to introduce a vaccine mandate were dropped. Russia's invasion of Ukraine has cast a shadow over similar springtime festivities in Bavaria, where the subject has been hotly debated. Also read | Ahead of PM's visit, German minister says ‘it is in India’s interest to stop Ukrainian war’ Cancelling the Oktoberfest as a result of the war "could not be justified", Reiter said, while sharing his sympathies with Ukraine and Munich's twin city Kyiv. "Nobody can tell what the situation will be in autumn" with the war, the mayor said.

Oktoberfest to return this year after two years of virus hiatus

In pics: Brazil holds first carnival after two years of pandemic

India is celebrating the festival of colours, Holi which marks the triumph of good over evil. Watch ground report from the holy place of Vrindavan.

Holi celebration in Vrindavan: India celebrates the festival of colours

India celebrates the festival of colours: Festival marks triumph of good over evil

Holi, the festival of colours, It's one of the most exuberant festivals in the world. What are the legends and rituals of Holi? We look at different ways Holi is celebrated across India. Watch WION Wideangle with Ashwin Sanghi & Suhag A Shukla.

Holi: Legends & Rituals | WION Wideangle

Saudi&nbsp;Arabia&nbsp;held celebrations on Tuesday to commemorate for the&nbsp;first&nbsp;time&nbsp;its&nbsp;foundation nearly 300 years ago, choosing a date that downplays the central role played by clerics from the ultra-conservative&nbsp;Wahhabi school of Islam.

The government lined up events that include musical performances on&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;modern history, fireworks, drone shows and sound effects, with 3,500 performers taking part, state media reported.

The anniversary&nbsp;marks&nbsp;the day in 1727 when Mohammed bin Saud, founder of the&nbsp;first&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;state, took over the emirate of Diriyah - a remote town which now lies on the northwest edge of the&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;capital Riyadh.

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That was about 18 years before what historians generally consider as the beginning of the&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;state when bin Saud, a tribal leader, forged an alliance with Islamic preacher Mohammed ibn Abd al-Wahhab, whose purist doctrine is often referred to as Wahhabi Islam.

The agreement with the clergy boosted the legitimacy of the Al Saud rulers in exchange for lavish funding and influence granted to the&nbsp;conservative&nbsp;religious establishment over social issues, education and public morality - powers which have recently been curbed by the country's de facto leader.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has reined in the religious police, opened the country to concerts and cinemas, lifted a ban on women driving and eased the guardianship system, which gives men significant control over the lives of their female relatives.

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A royal decree last month declared Feb. 22 an official holiday, known as "Founding&nbsp;Day", to be commemorated every year in recognition of "the commencement of the reign of Imam Muhammad bin Saud" and marking the start of the&nbsp;first&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;state.

"Mohammed ibn Abd al-Wahhab is being erased from&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;history," said Kristin Diwan, senior resident scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington.

"This is the new&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;nationalism. It celebrates the Al Saud - tying the people directly to the royal family - and downplays the pivotal role played by religion in the&nbsp;founding&nbsp;of the state," Diwan said.&nbsp;

Saudi&nbsp;Arabia's Shura Council, an influential advisory body to the government, also approved last month a proposal to amend the law regulating the national flag and anthem. It was unclear if it will alter the content of the flag which includes the profession of Islamic faith: "There is no god but God; Muhammad is the prophet of God".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabias-first-yoga-festival-organised-in-jeddah-449135">Saudi Arabia's first yoga festival organised in Jeddah</a>

The kingdom already celebrates National Day on Sept. 23, which commemorates the victory of Al Saud over rival tribes from Hejaz region and the conquest of the two holy sites of Islam, Mecca and Medina, in 1925. The kingdom was subsequently named the kingdom of&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia&nbsp;in 1932.

Saudi Arabia held celebrations on Tuesday to commemorate for the first time its foundation nearly 300 years ago, choosing a date that downplays the central role played by clerics from the ultra-conservative Wahhabi school of Islam.

Saudi Arabia held celebrations on Tuesday to commemorate for the first time its foundation nearly 300 years ago, choosing a date that downplays the central role played by clerics from the ultra-conservative Wahhabi school of Islam. The government lined up events that include musical performances on Saudi modern history, fireworks, drone shows and sound effects, with 3,500 performers taking part, state media reported. The anniversary marks the day in 1727 when Mohammed bin Saud, founder of the first Saudi state, took over the emirate of Diriyah - a remote town which now lies on the northwest edge of the Saudi capital Riyadh. Also read | Saudi Arabia: Job ad for women train drivers attracts 28,000 applicants for 30 posts That was about 18 years before what historians generally consider as the beginning of the Saudi state when bin Saud, a tribal leader, forged an alliance with Islamic preacher Mohammed ibn Abd al-Wahhab, whose purist doctrine is often referred to as Wahhabi Islam. The agreement with the clergy boosted the legitimacy of the Al Saud rulers in exchange for lavish funding and influence granted to the conservative religious establishment over social issues, education and public morality - powers which have recently been curbed by the country's de facto leader. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has reined in the religious police, opened the country to concerts and cinemas, lifted a ban on women driving and eased the guardianship system, which gives men significant control over the lives of their female relatives. Also read | Erdogan says Turkey continuing 'positive dialogue' with Saudi Arabia A royal decree last month declared Feb. 22 an official holiday, known as "Founding Day", to be commemorated every year in recognition of "the commencement of the reign of Imam Muhammad bin Saud" and marking the start of the first Saudi state. "Mohammed ibn Abd al-Wahhab is being erased from Saudi history," said Kristin Diwan, senior resident scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington. "This is the new Saudi nationalism. It celebrates the Al Saud - tying the people directly to the royal family - and downplays the pivotal role played by religion in the founding of the state," Diwan said. Saudi Arabia's Shura Council, an influential advisory body to the government, also approved last month a proposal to amend the law regulating the national flag and anthem. It was unclear if it will alter the content of the flag which includes the profession of Islamic faith: "There is no god but God; Muhammad is the prophet of God". Also read | Saudi Arabia's first yoga festival organised in Jeddah The kingdom already celebrates National Day on Sept. 23, which commemorates the victory of Al Saud over rival tribes from Hejaz region and the conquest of the two holy sites of Islam, Mecca and Medina, in 1925. The kingdom was subsequently named the kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932.

Saudi Arabia for first time marks its founding, downplaying conservative roots

North Korea marked the 80th birthday of leader Kim Jong Un's late father with a mass outdoor meeting in sub-zero temperatures, state media reported Wednesday, but no missiles or military parade.

Kim was joined by top officials in celebrating the "Day of the Shining Star" in snowy Samjiyon, a city near Mt Paektu, where official narratives say Kim Jong Il was born in a secret guerilla camp on February 16.&nbsp;

The North Korean calendar is peppered with anniversaries related to the nation's official history, in particular to Kim's father and his grandfather Kim Il Sung, the country's founding leader.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-gardeners-sent-to-labour-camp-for-failing-to-make-kims-flowers-bloom-on-birthday-452736">North Korean gardeners sent to labour camp for failing to make Kim’s flowers bloom on birthday</a>

The occasions are celebrated with flower shows, mass dances and laudatory tributes in state media, in what analysts say is a means to instil loyalty to the leadership.

Kim Il Sung's April 15 birthday is called the Day of the Sun.

Photos and video in North Korean state media Wednesday showed participants gathered before a giant statue of Kim Jong Il to celebrate what the official KCNA news agency called "the great auspicious holiday of the nation".

The crowd was said to have burst into "stormy cheers" at the sight of leader Kim Jong Un, who has called Samjiyon -- located along the Chinese border in Ryanggang province -- the "home of our revolution".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-melbourne-quad-leaders-call-out-north-korea-make-veiled-references-to-china-pakistan-452507">In Melbourne, Quad leaders call out North Korea, make veiled references to China, Pakistan</a>

Kim has poured huge resources into the area's redevelopment in recent years, with the vast project including new apartments, hotels and a ski resort.

This year's anniversary has been closely watched as it comes amid fresh tensions on the peninsula. Some observers had anticipated a military parade by the North to showcase its new weapons.

Pyongyang carried out an unprecedented seven weapons tests in January, including of its most powerful missile since 2017, when leader Kim Jong Un baited then-US president Donald Trump with a spate of provocative launches.

It has also warned it could abandon its self-imposed moratorium and resume testing intercontinental ballistic missiles or nuclear weapons.

Watch |&nbsp;North Korea celebrates late leader Kim Jong-il's birthday

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-korea-celebrates-late-leader-kim-jong-ils-birthday-452747/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

But Pyongyang appears to have paused testing during the Beijing Winter Olympics, possibly out of deference to key ally China, analysts have said.

Experts say Pyongyang could use its next key anniversary -- the 110th birthday of Kim Il Sung on April 15 -- to carry out a major weapons test.

North Korea marked the 80th birthday of leader Kim Jong Un's late father with a mass outdoor meeting in sub-zero temperatures, state media reported Wednesday, but no missiles or military parade.

North Korea marked the 80th birthday of leader Kim Jong Un's late father with a mass outdoor meeting in sub-zero temperatures, state media reported Wednesday, but no missiles or military parade. Kim was joined by top officials in celebrating the "Day of the Shining Star" in snowy Samjiyon, a city near Mt Paektu, where official narratives say Kim Jong Il was born in a secret guerilla camp on February 16. The North Korean calendar is peppered with anniversaries related to the nation's official history, in particular to Kim's father and his grandfather Kim Il Sung, the country's founding leader. Also read | North Korean gardeners sent to labour camp for failing to make Kim’s flowers bloom on birthday The occasions are celebrated with flower shows, mass dances and laudatory tributes in state media, in what analysts say is a means to instil loyalty to the leadership. Kim Il Sung's April 15 birthday is called the Day of the Sun. Photos and video in North Korean state media Wednesday showed participants gathered before a giant statue of Kim Jong Il to celebrate what the official KCNA news agency called "the great auspicious holiday of the nation". The crowd was said to have burst into "stormy cheers" at the sight of leader Kim Jong Un, who has called Samjiyon -- located along the Chinese border in Ryanggang province -- the "home of our revolution". Also read | In Melbourne, Quad leaders call out North Korea, make veiled references to China, Pakistan Kim has poured huge resources into the area's redevelopment in recent years, with the vast project including new apartments, hotels and a ski resort. This year's anniversary has been closely watched as it comes amid fresh tensions on the peninsula. Some observers had anticipated a military parade by the North to showcase its new weapons. Pyongyang carried out an unprecedented seven weapons tests in January, including of its most powerful missile since 2017, when leader Kim Jong Un baited then-US president Donald Trump with a spate of provocative launches. It has also warned it could abandon its self-imposed moratorium and resume testing intercontinental ballistic missiles or nuclear weapons. Watch | North Korea celebrates late leader Kim Jong-il's birthday But Pyongyang appears to have paused testing during the Beijing Winter Olympics, possibly out of deference to key ally China, analysts have said. Experts say Pyongyang could use its next key anniversary -- the 110th birthday of Kim Il Sung on April 15 -- to carry out a major weapons test.

North Korea marks ex-leader's birthday with snowy celebration

The ongoing spread of the new variant has dashed hopes for many of celebrations on New Year's eve. Some major cities in Europe have already announced their flat out cancellation plans others still plan to hold their traditional iconic celebrations although at times scaled back and with caution. So who is cancelling new year's celebrations and who isn't.

New Year's Event: Who is cancelling and who is gong forward?

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