#14 Days Sri Lanka

[larimar]

nasa

Behold: a full moon worthy of the Halloween season. The Hunter’s Moon!⁣ ⁣ According to the Farmer’s Almanac, this month’s full moon coincides with deer hunting season. This Hunter’s Moon is extra special this year because it is also a supermoon, which means that the full moon occurs when the Moon is closest to Earth in its elliptical orbit.⁣ ⁣ At its closest point, the full moon can appear up to 14 percent bigger and 30 percent brighter than the faintest Moon of the year, which occurs when it’s farthest from Earth in its orbit. Even though 14 percent doesn’t make a big difference in detectable size, a full supermoon is a bit brighter than other moons throughout the year.⁣ ⁣ This full moon is also important to lots of different cultures across the world. As the full moon in the Hebrew month of Tishrei, this full moon falls near the start of Sukkoth, a seven-day holiday starting on the fifteenth day of the month. For Hindus, this is Sharad Purnima, also known as Kumara Purnima, Kojagari Purnima, Navanna Purnima Kojagrat Purnima, or Kaumudi Purnima. For Buddhists, this full moon marks the end of Vassa, the three-month period of fasting for monks tied to the monsoons. In Myanmar, this full moon corresponds with the three-day Thadingyut Festival of Lights, also known as the Lighting Festival of Myanmar. In Sri Lanka, this is Vap Poya, which is followed by the Kathina festival, during which people give gifts to the monks.⁣ ⁣ Keep an eye on the sky for the next couple of days, as the Moon will appear full through the morning of Friday, Oct. 18.⁣

Image description: The full moon glows bright gold in the top left of the image. The full moon stands out against a hazy, purple sky. In the lower right corner, a snowy peak can be glimpsed, bathed in dark red light.⁣ ⁣ Credit: NASA⁣

[srbachchan]

DAY 5900

Jalsa, Mumbai Apr 13/14, 2024 Sat/Sun 12:37 AM

Birthday - EF - Prasha Ganesh Sunday, 14 April .. wishes for this day from all the Ef family ..🚩❤️

🪔 ,

Ef Prasha Ganesh from Sri Lanka .. and Ef Urvashi Sharma .. 🙏🏻🚩

Mesadi / Vaisakhadi

Mesadi/Vaisakhadi festival celebrated by the people of Maharashtra and Karnataka. Celebrated on the 13th day of the bright half of the Hindu month of Vaishakha. An important festival for the farmers of Maharashtra and Karnataka as it marks the beginning of the sowing season.

VAISAKHI, VISHU, RONGALI BIHU, NABA BARSHA, VAISAKHADI AND PUTHANDU PIRAPPU

Sunday, 14 April

.. all the festive occasions .. all together .. one nation ..

greetings for peace calm and harmony among all .. 🚩🇮🇳

... for the joy and happiness in the celebration of good harvesting .. what be sown, be of value and immense .. the feed from the 'Annadata' .. अन्नदाता .. the deity who provides food ..

THE FARMER .. !!

... but the mind still lingers on the nuclear areas of discussion and many other books videos documentaries are researched .. and all come to just one conclusion ..

within seconds .. it can me Armageddon .. !!!

no further explanation or talk .. live in the present of celebration and gaiety , happiness and celebration .. for nothing be greater than that ..

Love to all 🌹❤️

Amitabh Bachchan

PS :

.. and you watch a game .. and truly without reason you side with one side and inwardly, even though there is no personal interest or following, you wish it to win .. and it reaches a hard fought end to a battle well fought .. and lose ..

Painful ..

But the pluck of the loser be rewarded ..

The boxing ring in Sherwood ..

[girlactionfigure]

🇮🇱SRI LANKA TRAVEL WARNING, POLICE DRAMA - Real time from Israel  

ISRAEL REALTIME - Connecting to Israel in Realtime

( VIDEO - The remains of Kfar Kila, a southern Lebanese near-border Hezbollah village that also acted as a major launch site. )

✡️Tonight is SIMCHAT TORAH starts tonight, where we celebrate with the Torah!  Chag Samayach, a joyful holiday!

.. Several rabbis have noted: How can we celebrate when this war started on this holiday last year?  When so many fell, so many remain hostages, so many are fighting and so many have given their lives in our defense?  

They answer: very much in the name of the fallen, in the name of the hostages, in the name of the Jewish people and those who have sacrificed, WE WILL NOT ALLOW THE ENEMY to destroy our holiday, to destroy our joy and celebration.  

AM YISROEL CHAI, the Jewish people live!  We will celebrate, we will win, we will honor their sacrifice.

✡️As a Jewish holy-day, we DO NOT POST news from sundown for 26 hours unless there is a LIFE THREATENING EMERGENCY.

⚠️ISRAEL NATIONAL SECURITY TRAVEL WARNING.. calls on the Israelis to immediately leave the Arugam Bay area and the coastal area in the south and west of Sri Lanka due to terror threat to Israeli tourists, following a warning about a terrorist squad of the Revolutionary Guards mission in the area.

⚠️ HOME FRONT COMMAND - - if you find rocket or drone debris during holiday outdoor activity, DO NOT TOUCH IT - contact Home Front (dial 104) or the Police (dial 100).  The parts may be dangerous or toxic, or be important for security.

♦️LEBANON - TZUR-TYRE.. Civil Defense in Tyre walks the streets of the city and asks citizens through loudspeakers to evacuate immediately.  The Civil Defense closed the entrances to the city of Tyre to prevent entry.  Heavy IDF attacks.

♦️LEBANON - (enemy reports) Dozens of IDF air force attacks on more than 20 villages and towns in Lebanon.

🔹IRANIAN TERROR PROPAGANDA.. a new mural in the center of Tehran: No (Israeli) hostage will be released.

🔹HOUTHIS CLEAR THEIR PORT?  Houthi leader Abdel Malik al Houthi issued an urgent order to the owners of the containers in the port to clear out the Hodediah port, immediately.  ???

🔹GERMANY SAYS.. German Foreign Minister: Israel succeeded in weakening Hezbollah to a great extent, and the task now is to reach an effective diplomatic solution.

🔹US INTEL AIRCRAFT.. The US is operating reconnaissance aircraft in the Persian Gulf to monitor the movements of Iranian surface-to-surface missiles.

🔹US SEC STATE GOES TO SAUDI ARABIA.. from Israel.  Riyadh: The American Secretary of State in Lincoln met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan, and talked with them about "the developments in Gaza and Lebanon"

▪️ON ISRAEL APPROVING THE NEW COVID VACCINE.. I received significant STRONG negative feedback about the Israel Min. Of Health approving and bringing into the fall vaxx schedule the new COVID vaccine.  It has become ridiculously difficult to determine the facts around COVID vaccines, and I can only advise to consult with a trusted medical professional before taking this vaccine, and there are categories of people who should clearly avoid it such as men under 30.

.. Israel no longer has public COVID testing, COVID (and flu, and both together, and strep - quick test kits are available at pharmacies), so there is no case rate data.

.. The last info I can find on COVID in Israel is 14 cases hospitalized in June, all seniors with other health problems. This is the “from COVID or with COVID” argument, and the article seems to state “with”.

[eretzyisrael]

@EinatWilfUnofficial

1 day ago (edited)Despite Israel being a tiny country with limited resources, surrounded by enemies, it absolutely does send aid all over the world including to official enemy states like Syria. Here is a partial list of the countries Israel sent aid to, as mentioned in the summary of IDF humanitarian missions:

1. Greece (1953, 1999): Assisted survivors of an earthquake in the Ionian Islands in 1953 and supported search and rescue efforts after the Athens earthquake in 1999.

2. Cambodia (1975): Provided medical care to refugees from the Cambodian-Vietnamese conflict near the Cambodian-Thai border.

3. Mexico (1985, 2017): Sent rescue teams after the devastating 1985 Mexico City earthquake and supported damage assessments and relief efforts following the 2017 earthquake.

4. Armenia (1988): Deployed rescue workers and medical aid following a massive earthquake in Gyumri.

5. Romania (1989): Delivered medical supplies and assistance during the Romanian revolution.

6. Croatia (1992): Sent humanitarian aid to Zagreb for those affected by the Bosnian civil war.

7. Argentina (1994): Assisted in search and rescue operations after a Hezbollah bombing at the AMIA building in Buenos Aires.

8. Democratic Republic of Congo (1994): Established a field hospital and provided supplies for refugees of the Rwandan Civil War in Goma.

9. Kenya (1998, 2006): Helped after the US embassy bombing in Nairobi in 1998 and a building collapse in 2006.

10. Turkey (1999, 2011, 2023): Conducted rescue operations and medical care after major earthquakes in İzmit (1999), Erciş (2011), and Türkiye (2023).

11. India (2001): Treated thousands and set up a field hospital after the Gujarat earthquake.

12. Egypt (2004): Assisted after the Taba Hilton bombing with medical and rescue teams.

13. Sri Lanka (2004): Provided medical supplies and aid after the devastating tsunami.

14. United States (2005, 2021): Delivered humanitarian supplies after Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and aided search and rescue in Surfside, Miami, in 2021.

15. Japan (2011): Treated patients and established a field clinic after the earthquake and tsunami in Minamisanriku.

16. Bulgaria (2012): Provided medical assistance following a Hezbollah bus bombing in Burgas.

17. Ghana (2012): Rescued survivors after a department store collapse in Accra.

18. Philippines (2013): Conducted extensive medical and rescue operations after Typhoon Haiyan.

19. Nepal (2015): Treated thousands and established a field hospital after a massive earthquake in Kathmandu.

20. Syria (2016–2018): Provided medical and humanitarian aid to Syrian civilians during the civil war via Operation Good Neighbor.

21. Brazil (2019): Assisted in search and rescue operations after the Brumadinho dam collapse.

22. Albania (2019): Helped repair and assess structural damage after a major earthquake.

23. Honduras (2020): Supported recovery efforts following two devastating hurricanes.

24. Equatorial Guinea (2021): Delivered medical aid and conducted rescue operations after a series of explosions in Nkoa Ntoma.

25. Ukraine: Constructed a field hospital to treat civilians following Russia declaring war.

[matan4il]

I've seen arguing over how many people were slaughtered on Oct 7 itself. IDK the exact answer, because from what I've gathered, no one does so far. The last time I saw an article addressing the forensic work on this (which was about a week ago), it said 1,248 people had been identified, but I know there have been victims of the massacre identified since, I know there's still the unidentified victims to take into account, and the missing people (those that we can't know yet whether they'd been murdered on that day, kidnapped, or murdered and their body was kidnapped). There have been some bodies that were brought in together with all the rest, but were then identified as Hamas terrorists (my guess is their bodies weren't among those the forensic experts struggled to identify, unlike the bodies of their victims, often mutilated and burnt beyond recognition). Based on the number identified already, and the number of bodies still unidentified, over two months after the massacre, I find it hard to believe that the final number of Oct 7 victims will be less than 1,300 people. But like I said, nobody knows, there's still no official number, not until either the work of identification will be done, or until it's confirmed that there are no more ways to identify the remaining victims of Hamas' slaughter.

Even before the final number, it is the biggest massacre of Jews since the Holocaust, it is the second deadliest terrorist attack ever (if we take the lowest possible number of fatalities. The worst one is Sep 11, when 2,996 Americans were murdered by al-Qaeda), and the deadliest one ever if we adjust the number of victims to the attacked country's population size (if we take the not final figure of 1,248 people massacred on Oct 7, once adjusted for population size, this would be roughly equivalent to over 42,500 Americans murdered, meaning that for the Israeli population, this is over 14 times the scale of the Sep 11 attacks). Think about the number of Israelis (and Jews) impacted by this attack, before we start talking about the over 5,000 people injured on Oct 7, or those kidnapped. Hamas' massacre is also the single bloodiest day in the history of the Israeli-Arab conflict for one side. So anyone telling you that the Palestinians have been "suffering Oct 7 every single day for years," is either incredibly ignorant, or straight up lying. Anyone who knows the history of the conflict, or of terrorism, knows that there is no underestimating the unique brutality of Hamas' massacre.

Out of the people massacred on Oct 7, who were not Israeli citizens, there were at least: 39 victims from Thailand, 10 from Nepal, 4 from the Philippines, 3 from China, 2 from The United Kingdom, 2 from Sri Lanka, 1 from Canada, 1 from Cambodia, 1 from Germany, 1 from Moldova, 1 from The United States, 1 from Tanzania, and 1 from Eritrea. Altogether, at least 67 foreign nationals.

At least 26 people have been killed by direct rocket hits, of which at least 15 were killed on Oct 7. At least 20 were killed by Hamas and PIJ (Palestinian Islamic Jihad) rockets from Gaza, and at least 6 by Hezbollah rockets from Lebanon. Of the 26 known victims of rocket fire, 2 were citizens of Thailand, 14 were Israeli Jews, and 10 were Israeli Arabs. This doesn't reflect the full effect of the rockets on Oct 7, since the fate of many people was sealed when they started fleeing the barrage of around 4,000 rockets fired into Israel, only to run straight into ambushes set up by Hamas terrorists, like many of the Nova music festival victims, where over 360 people were murdered.

This is 5 years old Yazan Abu Jama'a, who was killed by a direct rocket hit on Oct 7:

I think the worst part about this post is writing "at least" so many times, knowing that every single one of these figures may be updated with a greater number.

(for all of my updates and ask replies regarding Israel, click here)

[blackswaneuroparedux]

We might know how it ends, but like all good stories it bears repetition. So here it is again, the story of a battle.

Bernard Cornwell, Waterloo: The True Story of Four Days, Three Armies and Three Battles

So I've been getting lots of questions about the significance of the Battle of Waterloo for Britain, France, and indeed Europe.

Great claims have been made as to the legacy of the Battle of Waterloo; but it is not as clear cut as many may claim; for it certainly did not crush all French opposition in a single blow; it did not augur in a century of enduring peace and prosperity across Europe; nor can it claim to have permanently re-established the monarchical system in Europe. Therefore after all the glory, the death and suffering caused on that battlefield, what were its real long term legacies?

For the people living in the vicinity of Waterloo, the utter destruction of the land and of their homes was devastating to their lives, but time soon healed the wounds on the landscape and the abandoned equipment scattered across the battlefields became a virtual treasure trove for the locals as the field of Waterloo was soon at the top of every travellers ‘must see’ list during a sojourn in Belgium. Numbers lived for years selling relics of the battle or became guides to the battlefield as the bloody fields instantly became a top tourist attraction. Every poet and writer in Europe had to visit to witness the scenes of devastation before penning their impressions and publishing to an eager audience, hungry for every new edition.

When they are examined with the benefit of hindsight, battles are rarely accorded the significance given to them. Few become venerated among a nation’s lieux de mémoire, or contribute to the foundation myths of modern nations. Of the battles of the Napoleonic Wars, it is arguable that Leipzig [the 1813 battle lost to the Allies by French troops under Napoleon] has its place in the rise of German nationalism, even if its real importance was greatly exaggerated and mythologized by 19th-century cultural nationalists. In Pierre Nora’s magisterial study of France, only Bouvines, in 1214 [which ended the 1202–14 Anglo-French War], makes the cut. Waterloo, unsurprisingly, does not figure.

Yet at the time Waterloo was hailed in Britain as a battle different in scale and import from any other of the modern era. It had, it was claimed, ushered in a century of peace in continental Europe. It had brought to a close, in Britain’s favour, the centuries-old military rivalry with France. And it had ended France’s dream of building a great continental empire in Europe, while leaving Britain’s global ambitions intact. If the Victorian age could be claimed as ‘Britain’s century’, it was her victory over Napoleon that had ushered it in. Britain, it seemed, had every reason to celebrate, every reason to claim Waterloo as its own.

To some extent Britain’s response was justified; it was a victory that positioned the country favourably, bolstering its global ambitions and helping to create the conditions for the economic success that lay ahead in the Victorian era. Having laid the final, decisive blow on Napoleon, Britain could command a leading role in the peace negotiations that followed and thus shape a settlement that suited its interests. While other coalition states claimed back sections of Europe, the Vienna Treaty gave Britain control over a number of global territories, including South Africa, Tobago, Sri Lanka, Martinique and the Dutch East Indies, something that would become instrumental in the development of the British Empire’s vast colonial command. It is not surprising then that in other parts of Europe, Waterloo - though still widely acknowledged as decisive - is generally accorded less significance than the Battle of Leipzig.

If Waterloo was Britain’s greatest military triumph, as it is often feted, it surely does not owe that status to the battle itself. Military historians generally agree that the battle was not a great showcase of either Napoleon’s or Wellington’s strategic prowess. Indeed, Napoleon is commonly believed to have made several important blunders at Waterloo, ensuring that Wellington’s task of holding firm was less challenging than it might have been. The battle was a bloodbath on an epic scale but, as an example of two great military leaders locking horns, it leaves a lot to be desired.

The short term significance in the aftermath of the Battle of Waterloo marked the end of Napoleon’s storied military career. He reportedly rode away from the battle in tears. Though he emerged victorious, the Duke of Wellington later reflected on the the horrific costs of that victory: “My heart is broken by the terrible loss I have sustained in my old friends and companions and my poor soldiers. Believe me, nothing except a battle lost can be half so melancholy as a battle won.” Wellington went on to serve as British prime minister, while Blucher, in his 70s at the time of the Waterloo battle, died a few years later.

Waterloo’s long term significance must surely be the role it played in achieving lasting peace in Europe. Wellington, who did not share Napoleon’s relish for battle, is said to have told his men, “If you survive, if you just stand there and repel the French, I’ll guarantee you a generation of peace”. Perhaps the lesson of this historic battle the nations of Europe which fought as foes that day need to forget these old sores and celebrate together; recognising that it did force Europe to acknowledge that it must find a new path of reconciliation and accord. This road has been far from smooth, but each time it has failed, a greater understanding of the need for the European states to work more closely together has emerged from the ashes.

Ultimately this is the truly significant importance of Waterloo.

[prapasara]

Songkran History

Songkran History

History of Songkran Festival [ENG Ver.]

Thai New Year or Songkran (Thai: เทศกาลสงกรานต์, pronounced [tʰêːt.sā.kāːn sǒŋ.krāːn]) is the Thai New Year's national holiday. Songkran is on 13 April every year, but the holiday period extends from 14 to 15 April. In 2018 the Thai cabinet extended the festival nationwide to seven days, 9–16 April, to enable citizens to travel home for the holiday.  In 2019, the holiday was observed 9–16 April as 13 April fell on a Saturday.  The word "Songkran" comes from the Sanskrit word saṃkrānti,  literally "astrological passage", meaning transformation or change. It coincides with the rising of Aries on the astrological chart  and with the New Year of many calendars of Southeast and South Asia, in keeping with the Buddhist and Hindu Calendar. The New Year takes place at around the same time as the new year celebrations of many regions of South Asia like China (Dai people of Yunnan Province), India, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

In Thailand, New Year is now officially celebrated 1 January. Songkran was the official New Year until 1888, when it was switched to a fixed date of 1 April. Then in 1940, this date was shifted to 1 January. The traditional Thai New Year Songkran was transformed into a national holiday.  Celebrations are famous for the public water fights framed as ritual cleansing. This had become quite popular among Thai and foreigners.

Meaning

Songkran is a term derived from Sanskrit संक्रान्ति saṅkrānti meaning 'to move' or 'movement'. It derives from the movement of the sun from one position to another in the zodiac. According to its literal meaning in Sanskrit, a Songkran occurs every month. However, the period that Thai people refer to as Songkran happens when the sun moves from Pisces to Aries in the zodiac. The correct name for this period should actually be Maha Songkran ('great Songkran) because it coincides with the arrival of a New Year. The Songkran festival is, therefore, a celebration of the New Year in accordance with the solar calendar. The celebration covers a period of three days: 13 April is regarded as Maha Songkran, the day that the sun moves into Aries on the zodiac or the last day of the old year. The next day, 14 April is called Wan Nao, the transitional day between the old and the new years, and 15 April is called Wan Thaloeng Sok (Thai: วันเถลิงศก 'to begin a new era or year'), New Year's day itself.

Songkran Water Festival (Chainese Version)

Songkran Water Festival (Russian Version)

Songkran water Festival (Malay Version)

Songkran Water Festival (Korean Version)

Songkran Water Festival (Japanese Version)

Songkran Water Festival (German Version)

Songkran Water Festival (French Version)

Discover Amazing Stories | History of Songkran Festival [ENG Ver.]

Songkran : The journey from ancient water festival to UNESCO cultural heritage

UNESCO announced its decision from Botswana on Wednesday afternoon, Thai time, while events to mark the new honour will take place in Bangkok on Thursday.

Songkran is celebrated from April 13 to 15 each year to mark the traditional Thai New Year. The festival is known for its water-splashing traditions, which symbolise cleansing and purification. However, Songkran is also a time for paying respect to elders, giving alms to monks, and enjoying traditional Thai food and music.

Next year, the Pheu Thai-led government plans to stretch celebrations throughout the whole of April to promote the festival as Thailand’s soft power.

Songkran has a colourful past, which some scholars believe is rooted in an ancient Hindu festival marking the harvest season and the arrival of the new year.

This festival, called Makara Sankranti, celebrated the sun's entrance into the water sign of Aquarius, marking a new astrological period.

The water element, significant in both Hinduism and Buddhism, played a central role in rituals like making sacrifices to deities and the symbolic washing away of sins.

The festival was adopted by the Khmer Empire, which ruled parts of present-day Thailand, around the 11th century.

According to the traditional Thai calendar, the first new moon day of the fifth month is regarded as New Year’s Day. It normally falls on April 13.

Thais regarded Songkran as New Year's Day until 1889, when King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) switched the date to April 1. In 1941, the first day of the year was moved to January 1 by Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram’s government, to match the Western Gregorian Calendar. The Thai traditional New Year switched back to April 13, to be celebrated with a three-day Songkran holiday.

Under the Khmer empire, people bathed under the sun as they believed it helped cleanse the soul of bad karma and freed the spirits of dead ancestors to return to their homeland. This belief was apparently later attributed to the water element in Songkran celebrations.

As Theravada Buddhism flourished in Thailand, Songkran took on new dimensions.

The focus shifted towards merit-making, with people offering food and prayers to monks at temples.

This tradition, called "tam bun", remains an essential part of traditional New Year celebrations today.

During the Ayutthaya Kingdom (1350-1767), Songkran became an elaborate royal ceremony.

The king led processions, offered symbolic gifts to Buddha statues, and participated in the "Washing of the Buddha" ritual. No water splashing took place in those days.

The washing ritual, where people pour water over Buddha images to purge impurities, is still practised widely.

Millions who study or work outside their home provinces grab the opportunity of the three-day holiday to travel home to their families. April 14 is also called Family Day. The government often extends the holiday period by one or two days, creating a long weekend to promote tourism. But the exodus of people, coupled with partying, also leads to a spike in road accidents each year.

Water splashing takes centre stage at Songkran these days, with water guns in all shapes and sizes filling the shelves in shops.

The roots of this tradition are a mystery, though. Culture scholar Sujit Wongthet believes the water fights were encouraged and adopted in modern times to promote tourism.

He notes that a poem about Songkran written during the reign of King Rama III makes no mention of water splashing.

Some scholars believe that water splashing began after King Chulalongkorn began celebrating Thai New Year in 1989.

Today, Songkran is a vibrant celebration of tradition, family, and community whose significance has now earned UNESCO recognition.

People visit temples, offer alms, sprinkle water on their elders to show respect, and engage in joyous water battles symbolising cleansing and renewal.

The gentler side of the festival sees people anointing the hands of their parents, grandparents and seniors with scented water to seek their blessing for the new year.

Many families, especially those in the Northeast, make merit for deceased relatives or ancestors.

Local authorities and shopping malls set up spaces for the public to pour scented water on Buddha images to seek blessing.

Some temples invite worshippers to carry sand into their grounds for future building construction. Many Buddhists believe the practice brings prosperity, hoping that money pours into their pockets to match the amount of sand they carry.

Another traditional New Year activity is the releasing of captive animals. Worshippers buy fish and caged birds to free on Songkran Day, hoping that this act of compassion will wipe away their bad luck.

Songkran's journey from ancient to modern times reflects Thailand's history and culture, weaving together ancient customs, religious beliefs, and a zest for life. The festival is testament to the enduring power of tradition and the joy of celebrating new beginnings And as world intangible heritage, it is here to stay.

The history of Songkran – all you need to know about Thai New Year

What is Songkran?

Songkran is the largest and most famous festival in Thailand and marks the start of Thai New Year. For younger people it is perhaps best known for its large-scale water fights (or at least it was until the pandemic) but is also known for its traditional water blessing ceremonies. An important event in the Buddhist calendar, Thais will also use the Songkran holidays as an opportunity to return home and spend time with their families.

When is Songkran?

Originally, the Songkran festival’s date was determined by astronomy, but now, the official date, Songkran takes place is April 13-15. However, depending on the province, celebrations can continue for a week, sometimes longer. Pre-COVID, the Songkran celebrations in places such as Pattaya and Chiang Mai can often take place for up to seven days and longer.

What are the origins of Songkran?

The word Songkran is from a Sanskrit word that means passing or moving and is a metaphor for relocating the zodiac imprint or entering the New Year. Songkran was originally Thailand’s New Year’s Day, and signified the start of the Thai calendar. Between 1888 and 1940, Songkran and New Year’s Day in Thailand was celebrated on April 1 but was later changed to April 13-15, when January 1 became synchronized across the world as New Year’s Day.

Where else is Songkran celebrated?

Other than in Thailand, Songkran is celebrated in Laos, Cambodia, Burma, the Tai ethnic minority of Vietnam, and in China’s Yunnan province as well as in Sri Lanka and other eastern Indian countries. The Songkran festival is culturally rooted in India’s Holi festival. The Holi festival uses a splash of color instead and is celebrated in March.

How is Songkran celebrated in Thailand?

Water is a central element to Songkran and traditionally people would sprinkle water on one another as a way to cool down during the peak of the Thai summer season. Today, that has escalated somewhat to large scale water throwing celebrations where people use buckets and water pistols to soak anyone within reach. Appreciation of family and elders is also an important part of Songkran. More traditionally, people will mix clean water, fresh flowers, or garlands to pour over the hands of their parents, grandparents or other elderly family members or neighbors.

What are some traditional activities that Thai people do on Songkran?

With COVID-19 preventative measures putting a temporary halt to water throwing, people in Thailand will be opting for more traditional celebrations this Songkran, such as:

Making merit : Many Thai people will visit a temple during Songkran to make merit and pay their respects to people who have passed away. This type of merit-making is frequently planned ahead of time by bringing food to the temple pavilion to offer to the monks.

Sand pagoda work : After making merit, some people may build sand pagodas at their local temples. The building of pagodas is a religious Thai tradition that highlights teamwork among residents who work together to build the pagodas.

Releasing fish and birds : People will release fish and birds at their local temple as a form of making merit. Releasing the animals from the confines of a cage or giving them freedom is meant to signify a cleansing of the sins or a means of eliminating misfortune to bring happiness and comfort.

Pouring water on an adult or elderly person : This is a mark of respect for adults such as parents, teachers and other respected people. Water is poured on the hands of the person who will then bless the individual who is pouring the water.

Bathing the Buddha : Bathing images or statues of Buddha either at home or at a temple. This is typically performed at the end of the merit making ceremony.

House cleaning: The biggest cleaning day of the year, Songkran is when Thai people clean, sweep, and mop to get rid of bad items from their houses. The cleaning symbolizes ridding the home of any terrible things that have occurred during the previous year in readiness for better things for the year ahead.

Songkran  ,  Songkran in Thailand ,  Traditional Thai New Year festival , Songkran Festival , History of Songkran Festival , Thai New Year ,  Thailand , เทศกาลสงกรานต์ , The history of Songkran , วันสงกรานต์  , The history of Songkran in Thailand  , The Story of Songkran  ,  Songkran History

#Songkran2557  #Songkran  #SongkranFestival   #ThaiNewYear  #SongkranThailand #กำเนิดวันสงกรานต์  #ตำนานสงกรานต์   #สงกรานต์   #Thailand'sWaterFestival    #Songkran2024    #CelebratingSongkran  #TheWaterFestival

CR   ::    https://www.nationthailand.com/  ,  https://www.huahintoday.com/

[ifreakingloveroyals]

14 November 2013 | Prince Charles, Prince of Wales has a garland put on by a small boy being held up by his father in honour of his 65th birthday during a visit to Jew Street in Jew Town on day 9 of an official visit to India in Kochi, India. This will be the Royal couple's third official visit to India together and their most extensive yet, which will see them spending nine days in India and afterwards visiting Sri Lanka in order to attend the 2013 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.

[methinmycoffee]

Season 2 rankings!

Best to Worst:

Gnomes (Ep. 17)

Ike’s Wee Wee (Ep. 3)

Spookyfish (Ep. 15)

Prehistoric Ice Man (Ep. 18)

Cartman’s Mom is Still a Dirty Slut (Ep. 2)

Mexican Staring Frog of Southern Sri Lanka (Ep. 6)

Conjoined Fetus Lady (Ep. 5)

Chickenpox (Ep. 10)

Merry Christmas, Charlie Manson! (Ep. 16)

Roger Ebert Should Lay Off the Fatty Foods (Ep. 11)

Clubhouses (Ep. 12)

Terrance and Philip in Not Without My Anus (Ep. 1)

Chef Aid (Ep. 14)

Chef’s Chocolate Salty Balls (Ep. 9)

Cow Days (Ep. 13)

Summer Sucks (Ep. 8)

Chickenlover (Ep. 4)

City on the Edge of Forever (Ep. 7)

[auddacity]

Survey I did on friends about geography :>

So, lately I've been geeking over like, geography (except capitals, fuck capitals) and I rlly wanted to like survey how much people i knew knew about em for like, fun HAHA. Since the school year just ended, I had time :3

I picked 7 countries (can't be territories etc.) from each continent except Antarctica from most to least popular (imo) and asked people to self-evaluate how well they knew them!! I know this isn't statistically unbiased or something because I didn't choose randomly but FUCK THAT

Each country would have 2 questions like this:

I got like 17 responses in under a day (tysmmm!! idc if it's 'too little') and instantly went into analysis hehe (note that most if not ALL the respondents were Asian so there might be a bias but BLEGH >:P)

I turned the answers into a numeric value that I could process:

Yes - 2 pts Sorta - 1 pts No - 0 pts

So obvious stuff: Europe and Asia were the most identifiable, while North America (central if we're bein honest) was the least Surprisingly (at least to me), people recognize country names wayyyy more than flags (which in retrospect, yea but). The flag was equally (if not MORE*) recognized only when:

it was a well-known country (South Korea*, UK)

it had a unique flag (Nepal*, Antigua and Barbuda)

If we subtract the score a country got from its name to its flag, many have an average difference of at least 5+, with the most being Samoa 🇼🇸 (19), Haiti 🇭🇹 (15), and Fiji 🇫🇯 (14).

Looking at continents, the same can be said with Africa (10.7), North America (9.1), and Oceania (9) having the largest differences. It's prolly cuz people know countries like Kenya and Fiji and exist but are dumbfounded to realize they had flags?!?! TL;DR: i did not know that people legit didn't know flagss prolly cuz they heard countries from passing only which is mostly through their name. I'd love to dissect this more but I'm very lazy and this draft got deleted midway??? tumblr???? so I'll send the excel file below for y'all to see if you guys are interested :]

[ell0ra-br3kk3r]

i’m taking a page from @princess-paramour and having no filter 😂

Have fun

goshness bahaha thanksss

1. ellora (middle name)

2. jan.5th

3. my name as a married woman to kaz brekker hahaha

4. sound of music

5. im scattered minded

6. i always treat others the way i wish to be treated

7. im a pushover sometimes

8. just chilling at the beach or like a coffee shop and asking each other questions and talking about our days

9. family

10. straight

11. no clue

12. family issues yesterday

13. thai

14. fall

15. .... really long haha 30mins

16. france

17. english, spanish, and a tinyyy bit of tamil

18. dark brown

19. siege and storm

20. vanilla or mint chip

21. dogs. 100%

22. family line by conan gray

23. night

24. yes!! i love them!

25. 15

26. the only one coming to mind is better terrible truths than kind lies

27. superache by conan gray

28. their eyes and smile

29. i will not put that out there bahaha

30. american

31. you're on your own kid by taylor swift

32. i don't think i have one...

33. bowl of rice and curry

34. tea

35. supermarket flowers by ed sherran

36. all over the states, sri lanka and dubai

37. teal or mint green

38. water

39. hockey(watching) taekwondo(doing)

40. mango

[srbachchan]

DAY 5536

Jalsa, Mumbai                April 13/14,  2023                Thu/Fri  12:05 AM

Birthday - EF - Prasha Ganesh .. Friday, 14 April .. greetings filled with the affection of the Ef .. ❤️

🌹 .. April 14 .. birthday of Ef Prasha Ganesh from Sri Lanka and Urvashi Sharma .. both sharer of birth with  Bharat Ratna Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar .. and on this auspicious day we wish you all the love and happiness, Prasha and Urvashi ji ..

..

... and having done the birthdays the slumber and the routines of daily responsibilities took over and here we are on the 14th of Apr again at 9:17 AM

intriguing debates and discussions pursued the entire day in discussion and Saptaswar, for projects that need careful attention and involvement for the work undertaken .. it is a World of rapid change .. 

Change .. or be changed by circumstances .. but change you will .. it is the byline tag USP of each daily day now .. and the generation that occupies the Universe , unaware of the past and the good it left, have before them the incredible NEW World of immense value and invention and technology that is keeping us oldies breathless and under no condition to keep up with them .. 

Smarter faster in intellect .. educated for it , for borrowed through technology, it is an inevitable occurrence .. cannot fight against it , for when you do the force of the technological world swishes past you , leaving you gasping for fresh air .. if at all there is some ..

there is some merit in the ‘elixir of life’ .. the bean, burnt melted in degrees of consumption and which states that it is welcomed by several parts of the interior physiognomy  .. one of such being the cerebrum .. which exudes intellect physical extended limits and much more .. actually the guile and freedom to performance enhanced brings immense pleasure to not just the consumer, but indeed they that come in close proximity ..

and the consumer .. well .. it is being protected now by law and morality soon .. the one that propagates is the one that shall be at the gate of answerability .. 

Hmmmmmmm ..

a great deal of  .. MMMMMMMMMM .. shall follow if this is put into practice .. 

time shall tell ..

the breathing machinery be present now .. which nostril bringing in the energy .. so 🙏 .. 

more later .. the famous departure express ..

Love

Amitabh Bachchan

[cbtf54]

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Nov 14, 2024 🕔 17:31 Ist

[news365timesindia]

[ad_1] Harmanpreet Kaur in action for India in ICC Women’s T20 World Cup (PC: ICC) Somewhere sport distills down to moments. Those moments that stay in the caverns of the brain for a long period of time. So, how would fans remember Harmanpreet Kaur, the India skipper? Unfortunately, for a cricket romantic, it could be a couple of heartbreaks. At the picturesque Cape Town, with the Table Mountain in the background, Harmanpreet’s bat struck in the pitch and she was run out in the T20 World Cup. Eventually, India lost by a narrow margin to Australia in the semi-final. Intriguingly, the history seemed to be on a repeat mode as India locked horns against Australia in a 2024 T20 World Cup game in Sharjah. Once again Harmanpreet wasn’t in a mood to give up, despite India losing wickets at the other end. With one over to go, Harmanpreet was seen gasping for breath. Soon, Harmanpreet’s hopes of taking India to a win went up in smoke. And India’s chances of qualifying for the last-four now hang by a thread. Now add the Commonwealth Games final to complete the set of Harmanpreet’s destiny with heartbreaks and gut-wrenching losses. Harmanpreet has played some sizzling knocks, including the believe-it-or-not 115-ball 171 versus Australia in the 2017 50-over World Cup. But it is those three games that serve as the enduring portraits of Harmanpreet’s noteworthy career. The difference in approaches was stark as India’s safety-first approach was once again trumped by an aggressive Australian one. India’s T20 template needs a complete reset, maybe under a new leadership group.@BoriaMajumdar writes.#T20WomenWorldCuphttps://t.co/t2PrdZeJKs — RevSportz Global (@RevSportzGlobal) October 14, 2024   That was about Harmanpreet’s batting. What about her captaincy? India came into the tournament after losing in the final of the Asia Cup. If India make a swift exit out of the group phase of the World Cup, there would be question marks over her leadership skills. Meanwhile, Smriti Mandhana, her deputy, showed some flair as RCB’s captain this year. As a stand-in skipper in the India-Sri Lanka encounter, she yet again came across as an able leader. Even in terms of tactical nous, a few of the jigsaws of Harmanpreet’s moves in the World Cup haven’t made much of a sense. In Sharjah, where spinners have had a massive role to play, India employed a pace bowler at one end for 15 out of 20 overs versus Australia. Basically, India weren’t able to put the squeeze on Australia for a major part of the innings. Interestingly, the last five overs were all bowled by the spinners. In India’s opening fixture of the tournament, Deepti Sharma was smashed around by New Zealand’s batters. Harmanpreet still took the decision to complete Deepti’s quota of overs. On that day, Shreyanka Patil was the better bowler of the two but finished with one over short. In the same game, it was crystal clear from Brooke Halliday’s stance that her only go-to shots while facing spin were the sweep and reverse-hit. The Indian team, however, looked puzzled by Halliday’s strategy. For a moment, yours truly pondered whether India have never seen Halliday’s scoring areas. In reality, she has played around 70 internationals for New Zealand. It isn’t just the tactical side of things as Harmanpreet has also come under scrutiny for her management skills. In spite of certain shortcomings as a captain, Harmanpreet remains one of India’s best batters. Just that history may not be too kind on her. If India don’t progress to the semi-final, the walls of her home would seem empty – No photo frames of hoisting the World Cup trophy. At the age of 35, she doesn’t have much time to change her destiny. The post The two sides of Harmanpreet appeared first on Sports News Portal | Latest Sports Articles | Revsports. [ad_2] Source link

[news365times]

[ad_1] Harmanpreet Kaur in action for India in ICC Women’s T20 World Cup (PC: ICC) Somewhere sport distills down to moments. Those moments that stay in the caverns of the brain for a long period of time. So, how would fans remember Harmanpreet Kaur, the India skipper? Unfortunately, for a cricket romantic, it could be a couple of heartbreaks. At the picturesque Cape Town, with the Table Mountain in the background, Harmanpreet’s bat struck in the pitch and she was run out in the T20 World Cup. Eventually, India lost by a narrow margin to Australia in the semi-final. Intriguingly, the history seemed to be on a repeat mode as India locked horns against Australia in a 2024 T20 World Cup game in Sharjah. Once again Harmanpreet wasn’t in a mood to give up, despite India losing wickets at the other end. With one over to go, Harmanpreet was seen gasping for breath. Soon, Harmanpreet’s hopes of taking India to a win went up in smoke. And India’s chances of qualifying for the last-four now hang by a thread. Now add the Commonwealth Games final to complete the set of Harmanpreet’s destiny with heartbreaks and gut-wrenching losses. Harmanpreet has played some sizzling knocks, including the believe-it-or-not 115-ball 171 versus Australia in the 2017 50-over World Cup. But it is those three games that serve as the enduring portraits of Harmanpreet’s noteworthy career. The difference in approaches was stark as India’s safety-first approach was once again trumped by an aggressive Australian one. India’s T20 template needs a complete reset, maybe under a new leadership group.@BoriaMajumdar writes.#T20WomenWorldCuphttps://t.co/t2PrdZeJKs — RevSportz Global (@RevSportzGlobal) October 14, 2024   That was about Harmanpreet’s batting. What about her captaincy? India came into the tournament after losing in the final of the Asia Cup. If India make a swift exit out of the group phase of the World Cup, there would be question marks over her leadership skills. Meanwhile, Smriti Mandhana, her deputy, showed some flair as RCB’s captain this year. As a stand-in skipper in the India-Sri Lanka encounter, she yet again came across as an able leader. Even in terms of tactical nous, a few of the jigsaws of Harmanpreet’s moves in the World Cup haven’t made much of a sense. In Sharjah, where spinners have had a massive role to play, India employed a pace bowler at one end for 15 out of 20 overs versus Australia. Basically, India weren’t able to put the squeeze on Australia for a major part of the innings. Interestingly, the last five overs were all bowled by the spinners. In India’s opening fixture of the tournament, Deepti Sharma was smashed around by New Zealand’s batters. Harmanpreet still took the decision to complete Deepti’s quota of overs. On that day, Shreyanka Patil was the better bowler of the two but finished with one over short. In the same game, it was crystal clear from Brooke Halliday’s stance that her only go-to shots while facing spin were the sweep and reverse-hit. The Indian team, however, looked puzzled by Halliday’s strategy. For a moment, yours truly pondered whether India have never seen Halliday’s scoring areas. In reality, she has played around 70 internationals for New Zealand. It isn’t just the tactical side of things as Harmanpreet has also come under scrutiny for her management skills. In spite of certain shortcomings as a captain, Harmanpreet remains one of India’s best batters. Just that history may not be too kind on her. If India don’t progress to the semi-final, the walls of her home would seem empty – No photo frames of hoisting the World Cup trophy. At the age of 35, she doesn’t have much time to change her destiny. The post The two sides of Harmanpreet appeared first on Sports News Portal | Latest Sports Articles | Revsports. [ad_2] Source link

[emiratesvisaonline01]

Emirates Visa from Sri Lanka: Application Details & Process

Traveling to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is an exciting opportunity for many Sri Lankans, whether for tourism, business, or visiting family and friends. However, securing a visa can seem daunting. This blog will provide a comprehensive guide on how to apply Emirates visa from Sri Lanka, outlining the types of visas available, the application process, required documents, and tips for a smooth experience.

Types of Emirates Visas

It's critical to comprehend the several Emirates visa categories that Sri Lankans might apply for before beginning the application process:

Tourist Visa: Perfect for tourists or people traveling for fun. There are two types of visas available: 30-day and 90-day.

Transit Visa: Usually good for up to 96 hours of stay, this visa is intended for visitors passing through the United Arab Emirates.

Visit Visa: For travelers paying visits to relatives or friends who live in the United Arab Emirates. Although it is usually good for thirty days, this visa can frequently be extended.

Business Visa: Intended for tourists on business visiting the United Arab Emirates for meetings or conferences.

Application Process

The application process for an Emirates visa can be completed online or through a local UAE embassy or consulate. Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying online, which is the most convenient method.

Step 1: Select your country

Go to our Website Emirates Visa Online. Select your country of residence, Like choose "Sri Lanka" from the list.

Step 2: Determine the Visa Type

Identify the type of visa that matches your travel purpose. If you’re visiting for tourism, a tourist visa for single or multiple entry is appropriate. For business-related visits, opt for a business visa which is a 14 Days UAE Visa from Sri Lanka. If you're just passing through the UAE, a UAE transit visa which is for 48 or 96 Hour Layover Visa will be required.

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

Prepare the following documents, which are commonly required for Emirates Visa applications:

Passport Copy: A clear copy of your passport's biographical page.

Photograph: A recent passport-sized photo.

Application Form: Fill out the visa application form completely and accurately.

Proof of Travel: Flight bookings or travel itinerary.

Accommodation Details: Proof of where you will be staying in the UAE, such as hotel reservations.

Financial Proof: Evidence that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay.

Visa Fee: Payment for the UAE Visa Application Fee.

Step 3:  Complete Your Application

Once you have completed the application form and gathered all necessary documents, submit your application through our portal. Verify again for any mistakes or information that is missing.

Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee

After uploading your documents and completing the application, you’ll need to pay the visa fee. The kind and period of the visa affect the fees. Usually, credit or debit cards can be used to make payments.

Step 6: Submit Your Application

Once everything is completed and the fee is paid, submit your application. You will receive a confirmation email with a reference number, which you can use to track your application status.

Step 7: Track Application Status

You can Check UAE Visa Status through the portal if it approved, pending or any or more details needed. Keep an eye on any updates or additional requirements.

Step 8: Wait for Processing

The processing time for an Emirates Visa varies depending on the type of visa and the volume of applications. Typically, tourist visas are processed within 3 to 5 working days. But if you have any urgency you have an option you can get UAE Express Visa Service , it will help you to approve your visa within 4-24 hours. However, it's advisable to apply well in advance of your travel dates to account for any delays.

Step 9: Receive Your Visa

Once your Online application of Emirates Visa is approved, you will receive your Emirates Visa. If you applied online, you can download and print the visa from the e-Visa portal. Ensure that all details on the visa are correct before traveling.

Cost of a UAE Visa for Sri Lanka Citizens

The Emirates visa fees from Sri Lanka can vary based on the service provider and processing speed, and here is the overview of the price:  

If you apply for a standard visa, this visa will be processed within 72 days, and its valid time is 30 days 

Applying for a UAE Express Visa is processed within 24 hours. It is also valid for 30 days.

Tips for a Smooth Application Process of UAE Visa

Apply Early: To avoid any last-minute issues, apply for your visa at least a few weeks before your planned travel.

Double-Check Information: Ensure all the information provided is accurate and consistent with your passport. Any discrepancies can lead to delays or rejection.

Stay Updated: Visa policies can change, so it’s wise to check for the latest requirements on the official UAE government website or through your airline.

Consult a Travel Agency: If you find the process overwhelming, consider consulting a reputable travel agency. They can provide guidance and assist with the application.

Travel Insurance: While not mandatory, obtaining travel insurance is highly recommended. It can provide peace of mind and financial protection during your trip.

Conclusion

Applying for an Emirates Visa as a Sri Lanka citizen involves several steps, from determining the type of visa you need to submitting your application and waiting for approval. By following the guidelines outlined in this comprehensive guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can enhance your chances of a smooth and successful application process.