The Durga Puja festival spirit is on as devotees in India and Bangladesh celebrate the festival. The devotees bid a very emotional goodbye to Durga Mata. Watch to know more.

Emotional Adieu To Goddess Durga

In Himachal Pradesh's Kullu district the celebration oof Dussehra is truly one of a kind, taking place a day later on Sunday. Kullu Dussehra is known for its grand rath yatra. Watch to know more.

India: Grand Rath Yatra Lights Up Kullu

Thousands of Taiwanese pilgrims travelled to China's Fujian province this week for a religious festival. It's a rare instance of cross straight cultural exchanges that threaten to be overshadowed by China's military phase. Watch to know more

Taiwan-China: People's Bridge Overcoming War Tensions

People across India are celebrating the Dusshera and Vijay Dashami today as the day marks the end of the 9-Day Navaratri. The occasion of Dussehra marks triumph of good over evil. Watch to know more.

India: Ravana's Mighty Form Goes Up In Flames

This report explores India's consumer confidence as the festive season gets busier with some of the country's largest spending spikes expected soon. But can the spending boom support India's growing economy? Watch to know more.

India: Experts Predict Spending Surge Ahead Of Diwali

From India to New York the Durga Puja festivities are on, stunning pandals welcome goddess Durga, the goddess associated with protection and strength. From Kolkata to New York people are reveled in the festive Spirit. Watch to know more.

Durga Puja Celebrated In The Heart Of Times Square

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today reached Chief Justice DY Chandrachud's home to take part in the Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. In a video, the chief justice and his wife are seen welcoming PM Modi to their residence.

Ganesh Chaturthi 2024: PM Modi performs Ganapati puja at CJI's residence

Vedic chants and festive celebrations as devotees offer prayers to Lord Ganesha on Vinayak Chaturthi across southern India. Watch to know more.

Ganesh Chaturthi celebrated across India from Sep 7 to Sep 17

It's time to bring Bappa home and immerse in the 10-day long festivity of Ganesh Chaturthi. Watch WION's ground report as Mumbai gears up for 10-day-long festivity. Watch in for more details!

Mumbai buzzing with excitement this Ganesh Chaturthi

India is ready to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi from Sept 7th to Sept 17th

India is ready to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi from September 7 to September 17

Raksha Bandhan is a traditional Hindu festival, that celebrates the bond between a brother and a sister. The name of the festival translates to "the bond of protection" to celebrate the unique relationship of love and care between siblings.&nbsp;

The occasion is observed on the full moon day in the Shravana month of the Hindu lunisolar calendar, usually falling in August according to the Gregorian calendar.

<h2>History of Raksha Bandhan</h2>

The celebration of Raksha Bandhan dates back centuries ago. It also holds a mythological significance where instances of this auspicious festival are recorded.

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Draupadi and Krishna

One of the most known stories is of Lord Krishna and Draupadi, the wife of five Pandava&nbsp;brothers. According to the Mahabharata, Draupadi ripped a strip of her saree and tied it around Lord Krishna's injured finger. He returned her sisterly love and care by promising to protect her, which he did in the future when Kauravas tried to disrobe her.

King Bali and Goddess Lakshmi

According to Bhagavata Purana and Vishnu Purana, Lord Vishnu had accepted the request of the demon King Bali to stay in his palace after winning the three worlds. Goddess Lakshmi disguised as a Brahmin woman and tied Rakhi on King Bali's wrist on the day of Shravan Purnima during a full moon to let her husband return to their home.

Yama and Yamuna

When the river Yamuna visited her brother, Yama, the God of Death, he was touched by her love and granted her a wish. Whoever bathed in her waters and prayed on the day of Raksha Bandhan would be blessed with protection.

Rani Karnawati and Emperor Humayun

During the Mughal invasion in the 16th century, Rajputana Rani Karnavati, the widowed queen of the king of Chittor, sent a Rakhi to Mughal Emperor Humayun to protect her kingdom from the invasion of Bahadur Shah, the Sultan of Gujarat. Moved by the gesture, the Emperor marched towards Chittor with his soldiers to protect her.

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Swadeshi Movement

During the partition of Bengal in 1905, the British rulers wanted to divide the state along religious lines. People tied Rakhi on each other's wrists to show the unity between the Hindu and Muslim communities.

<h2>Significance of Raksha Bandhan</h2>

Raksha Bandhan holds a deeper meaning than just tying the decorative thread on the wrists of brothers by their sisters. The tying of Rakhi symbolises the love, affection, and protection between the two. In return, the brother offers the sister a token of appreciation, usually as a gift.

This exchange shows mutual support and love between siblings, cousins, or any person with whom you share a brother-sister bond. Today, Raksha Bandhan transcends religious and cultural boundaries, emphasising the importance of relationships, love and protection that people share.

(With inputs from agencies)

Raksha Bandhan is a traditional Hindu festival, that celebrates the bond between a brother and a sister. The name of the festival translates to "the bond of protection" to celebrate the unique relationship of love and care between siblings.

Raksha Bandhan is a traditional Hindu festival, that celebrates the bond between a brother and a sister. The name of the festival translates to "the bond of protection" to celebrate the unique relationship of love and care between siblings. The occasion is observed on the full moon day in the Shravana month of the Hindu lunisolar calendar, usually falling in August according to the Gregorian calendar. History of Raksha Bandhan The celebration of Raksha Bandhan dates back centuries ago. It also holds a mythological significance where instances of this auspicious festival are recorded. Also read | Super Blue Moon on August 19: Everything you should know Draupadi and Krishna One of the most known stories is of Lord Krishna and Draupadi, the wife of five Pandava brothers. According to the Mahabharata, Draupadi ripped a strip of her saree and tied it around Lord Krishna's injured finger. He returned her sisterly love and care by promising to protect her, which he did in the future when Kauravas tried to disrobe her. King Bali and Goddess Lakshmi According to Bhagavata Purana and Vishnu Purana, Lord Vishnu had accepted the request of the demon King Bali to stay in his palace after winning the three worlds. Goddess Lakshmi disguised as a Brahmin woman and tied Rakhi on King Bali's wrist on the day of Shravan Purnima during a full moon to let her husband return to their home. Yama and Yamuna When the river Yamuna visited her brother, Yama, the God of Death, he was touched by her love and granted her a wish. Whoever bathed in her waters and prayed on the day of Raksha Bandhan would be blessed with protection. Rani Karnawati and Emperor Humayun During the Mughal invasion in the 16th century, Rajputana Rani Karnavati, the widowed queen of the king of Chittor, sent a Rakhi to Mughal Emperor Humayun to protect her kingdom from the invasion of Bahadur Shah, the Sultan of Gujarat. Moved by the gesture, the Emperor marched towards Chittor with his soldiers to protect her. Also read | Delhi IGI’s New Terminal 1 to resume operations. Key details to know Swadeshi Movement During the partition of Bengal in 1905, the British rulers wanted to divide the state along religious lines. People tied Rakhi on each other's wrists to show the unity between the Hindu and Muslim communities. Significance of Raksha Bandhan Raksha Bandhan holds a deeper meaning than just tying the decorative thread on the wrists of brothers by their sisters. The tying of Rakhi symbolises the love, affection, and protection between the two. In return, the brother offers the sister a token of appreciation, usually as a gift. This exchange shows mutual support and love between siblings, cousins, or any person with whom you share a brother-sister bond. Today, Raksha Bandhan transcends religious and cultural boundaries, emphasising the importance of relationships, love and protection that people share. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Festival Raksha Bandhan: Check history, Significance and how it’s celebrated

Thousands of Colombians and visitors take part in the 'Silleteros' parade in Medellin to close the city's annual flower festival, in which participants walk along avenues carrying heavy and elaborate floral arrangements, which can weigh up to 70 kilos.

Colombia's annual flower parade on display

China's annual Dragon Boat Festival which drew several huge participants and spectators from across China took place yesterday.

Dragon boat festival begins in across China

South Korea's 'first-ever' sex festival was cancelled hours before it was about to get started, as performers backed out fearing that they would be stabbed. The event, which was called '2024 KFX The Fashion', was organised by 'Play Joker', as per the announcements.

South Korea's 'first-ever' sex festival was cancelled hours before it was about to get started, as performers backed out fearing that they would be stabbed. The event, which was called '2024 KFX The Fashion', was organised by 'Play Joker', as per the announcements. The event was organised aboard a ship at Jamwon Hangang Park in Seoul on April 21 and 22. The organisers, however, faced pressure from councils and women's groups because of which they had to change the location of the event three times. The event, which featured Japanese porn stars, cost the head of Play Joker Lee Hee Tae thousands of dollars. Also Read: South Korea successfully launches second military spy satellite amid race with North Korea Finally, the organisers decided to host the event in secret at a bar in the Gangnam neighbourhood in Seoul, in their last effort to make the festival happen. Gangnam council adopts extreme measures to stop sex festival The council, however, did not budge and took extreme measures to stop the event from happening. As reported by the BBC, Gangnam council wrote letters to hundreds of restaurants in their neighbourhood and warned them that they would be shut down if they were caught hosting the event, which the council called "morally harmful". The bar decided not to back out from hosting the event, however, the programme stumbled upon a rock when the Japanese stars of the show pulled out while citing fears of violence, as well as stabbing. The performers' agency stated that backlash "reached fever pitch". Speaking to the BBC, Lee said that he failed to believe "such an unthinkable turn" had happened and added that death threats were sent to him. "I have been treated like a criminal without doing anything illegal", he added. He further claimed that the event was not violating any law since there were to be no sexual acts or nudity. Watch: South Korean environmentalists celebrate Earth Day in Seoul According to the BBC, the festival was to comprise a bondage fashion show, some adult games and a sex toy exhibition. "Virtually every developed country has a sex festival, but here in South Korea we don't even have an adult entertainment culture. I want to take the first steps towards creating one," Lee Hee Tae said. He added, "The authorities are hypocrites. If you go online everyone is sharing pornography, then people log off and pretend they are innocent. How much longer are we going to keep up this pretence?" (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea's 'first' sex festival gets cancelled. Here's what changed its fate

Hindu devotees across India flocked to temples to mark the first day of Navratri, the festival of nine nights dedicated to mother goddess Durga in which devotees worship all her manifestations. Marking the beginning of the traditional new year, in Maharashtra and Goa people celebrated Gudi Padwa.

Festival Highlights: Navratri, Gudi Padwa celebrations

Ayodhya's Ram Mandir is all set to celebrate Ram Navmi on April 17. From this year, Ram Navami celebration will witness the deployment of an intricate network of lenses & mirrors.

Surya Tilak to ‘light up’ Ram Lalla idol's forehead every Ram Navami

Approximately 500,000 flowers make up a colorful display of tulips at a tourist destination in West Sussex. Tulip Fest spans 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) at Tulleys Farm in Turners Hill and has one hundred different species.

UK: Tulip Fest celebrates spring tapestry

Holi is one of the most well-known celebrations of Hindus, and is celebrated with fun and excitement across India. It marks the conclusion of the winter season and the start of summer. Watch in to know how Indians are celebrating Holi this year.

Holi Celebrations 2024: How the festival of colours is celebrated across India

Indian Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday celebrated Holi with army troops in Leh. Watch to know more.

Holi Celebrations 2024: Defence minister Rajnath Singh celebrates Holi with army personnel in Leh

Holi Celebrations 2024: Colourful Holi festivities across India

During the Mughal era, Muslims celebrated Holi in the Red Fort and Agra Fort. Holi was performed by Emperors Jahangir and Akbar with the populace during 'Mehfil-e-Holi' events. Mughal emperors celebrated Holi with Hindu ministers, while Sufi poets exploited the occasion to call for harmony.

Eid-E-GULABI: Holy celebrated by Mughals

Holi is celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu lunar month Phalguna, which normally lies in February or March. Watch the video to know more.

India: Devotees throng Uttar Pradesh's Barsana to celebrate 'Lathmar Holi'

The festival comes ahead of the 'Makar Sakranti' festival. Horses, monsters & cartoon characters themed kites adorn the sky. Participation from Denmark, France etc. Watch to know more!

Kite festival in India's Ahmedabad city | International Kite Festival 2024

The Nasatta Light Festival, one of Thailand's largest light illumination festivals, returns for its sixth year in Ratchaburi province, about 80 minutes from Bangkok.

Thailand: Biggest light illumination festival puts on a show

<h2>Uttarayan 2024</h2>

Uttarayan, also known as Makar Sankranti, is a vibrant and joyous festival celebrated with great enthusiasm in India. Falling on the 14th or 15th of January every year, Uttarayan marks the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer, sunnier days. This festival is synonymous with kite-flying, delicious traditional foods, and a sense of unity and joy among people.

The celebration of Uttarayan extends beyond religious rituals and indulging in sweets; it holds special significance for the people of Gujarat who eagerly anticipate exclaiming "Kai Po Che" to the kites soaring through the sky.

<h2>Uttarayan 2024 date&nbsp;</h2>

Uttarayan is observed on the day following Lohri celebrations and coincides with Makar Sankranti. Traditionally celebrated on 14 January, Makar Sankranti, also referred to as Uttarayan festivities, is being observed on 15 January this year.&nbsp;

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/divya-pahuja-murder-case-former-models-body-found-in-a-canal-in-haryana-679795/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2>Uttarayan significance</h2>

Beyond the festivities, Uttarayan holds cultural and religious significance. It marks the movement of the sun into the northern hemisphere, symbolising the end of the winter season and the beginning of longer, warmer days. Many people take a dip in sacred rivers like the Ganges to cleanse themselves of sins and usher in positivity for the coming year.

The festival is also associated with the worship of the sun god, Surya. Devotees offer prayers, perform rituals, and make charitable donations as a gesture of gratitude for the sun's life-giving energy.

<h2>Traditional Delights and Kite Flying</h2>

Uttarayan is not just about kite flying; it is also a time to savour traditional&nbsp;delicacies. In Gujarat, families prepare special dishes like undhiyu, a mixed vegetable curry cooked with a medley of spices. They also prepare&nbsp;chikkis, sweet treats made from sesame seeds and jaggery. These mouthwatering dishes are shared with neighbours and friends, fostering a sense of community and togetherness.

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The most distinctive feature of Uttarayan is the spectacular kite flying that takes place across the state. Weeks before the festival, markets buzz with activity as people purchase kites of various shapes, sizes, and colours. The excitement is palpable as families and friends come together on terraces, open fields, and rooftops to engage in friendly kite battles.

Kite enthusiasts engage in duels to cut each other's strings, leaving the defeated kites soaring freely in the vast expanse of the sky that&nbsp;becomes a canvas of vibrant colours, with kites of all shapes and sizes dancing in the air.&nbsp;

As kites soar high in the sky, carrying with them the hopes and dreams of those who fly them, Uttarayan is a testimony to the enduring traditions and values that bind communities together.&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)

Uttarayan 2024 Uttarayan, also known as Makar Sankranti, is a vibrant and joyous festival celebrated with great enthusiasm in India. Falling on the 14th or 15th of January every year, Uttarayan marks the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer, sunnier days.

Uttarayan 2024 Uttarayan, also known as Makar Sankranti, is a vibrant and joyous festival celebrated with great enthusiasm in India. Falling on the 14th or 15th of January every year, Uttarayan marks the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer, sunnier days. This festival is synonymous with kite-flying, delicious traditional foods, and a sense of unity and joy among people. The celebration of Uttarayan extends beyond religious rituals and indulging in sweets; it holds special significance for the people of Gujarat who eagerly anticipate exclaiming "Kai Po Che" to the kites soaring through the sky. Uttarayan 2024 date Uttarayan is observed on the day following Lohri celebrations and coincides with Makar Sankranti. Traditionally celebrated on 14 January, Makar Sankranti, also referred to as Uttarayan festivities, is being observed on 15 January this year. Watch | Divya Pahuja murder case: Former model's body found in a canal in Haryana Uttarayan significance Beyond the festivities, Uttarayan holds cultural and religious significance. It marks the movement of the sun into the northern hemisphere, symbolising the end of the winter season and the beginning of longer, warmer days. Many people take a dip in sacred rivers like the Ganges to cleanse themselves of sins and usher in positivity for the coming year. The festival is also associated with the worship of the sun god, Surya. Devotees offer prayers, perform rituals, and make charitable donations as a gesture of gratitude for the sun's life-giving energy. Traditional Delights and Kite Flying Uttarayan is not just about kite flying; it is also a time to savour traditional delicacies. In Gujarat, families prepare special dishes like undhiyu, a mixed vegetable curry cooked with a medley of spices. They also prepare chikkis, sweet treats made from sesame seeds and jaggery. These mouthwatering dishes are shared with neighbours and friends, fostering a sense of community and togetherness. Also read | India: Congress to kick off 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' led by Rahul Gandhi to revive party fortunes The most distinctive feature of Uttarayan is the spectacular kite flying that takes place across the state. Weeks before the festival, markets buzz with activity as people purchase kites of various shapes, sizes, and colours. The excitement is palpable as families and friends come together on terraces, open fields, and rooftops to engage in friendly kite battles. Kite enthusiasts engage in duels to cut each other's strings, leaving the defeated kites soaring freely in the vast expanse of the sky that becomes a canvas of vibrant colours, with kites of all shapes and sizes dancing in the air. As kites soar high in the sky, carrying with them the hopes and dreams of those who fly them, Uttarayan is a testimony to the enduring traditions and values that bind communities together. Also read | India: Milind Deora resigns from Congress, ends family's '55-year relationship' with the party (With inputs from agencies)

Uttarayan 2024: History, date, tradition & joyous festival of kite flying 

Hailing from Finland's mysterious Korvatunturi in Lapland, Santa Claus parked his sleigh for an exclusive interview with WION. Know all about his home in Rovaniemi, his team of elves and reindeers and how the essence of Christmas has changed over the years.

Christmas 2023: Up, close and personal with Finland's Santa Claus | WION E-Club Exclusive

Dog lovers in Nigeria paraded their pets in traditional outfits at a canine festival in the commercial capital Lagos at the weekend, as organisers sought to showcase the country's diverse culture and encourage pet ownership.

Dressed up Dogs set the ramp on fire at Lagos festival

In pics | Over 200 hot air balloons fill Mexican skies during international festival

Hot air balloon festivals are held annually in many places throughout the year, allowing hot air balloon operators to gather

Annual international hot air balloon festival

Chhath Puja is a Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of the Sun God. Devotees fast & pray on the banks of rivers.

India: Chhath Puja celebrations | Devotees fast & pray on banks of rivers

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