#Festivals of Uttar Pradesh

[adotrip-official]

Festivals of Uttar Pradesh — A Cultural Extravaganza

Uttar Pradesh, the heart of India, is a land of diverse cultures and traditions. The state is famous for its historical significance, architectural marvels, and, most importantly, its vibrant festivals. The Festivals of Uttar Pradesh are celebrated with great enthusiasm, drawing visitors from across the world. From grand religious gatherings to regional festivities, these celebrations reflect the rich heritage of the state.

Major Religious Festivals of Uttar Pradesh

1. Kumbh Mela — The Largest Religious Gathering

Held in Prayagraj (Allahabad) every 12 years.

Millions of devotees take a holy dip at the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati.

Recognized as UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage.

2. Holi — The Festival of Colors

Celebrated with grandeur in Mathura and Vrindavan.

Lathmar Holi in Barsana is a unique attraction.

Devotees flock to temples of Lord Krishna to revel in joyous celebrations.

3. Diwali — The Festival of Lights

The grandest festival in Uttar Pradesh.

Ayodhya hosts a spectacular Deepotsav, lighting up millions of diyas.

Fireworks, rangoli, and temple decorations make this festival an unmissable spectacle.

4. Ram Navami — Birth of Lord Rama

Special celebrations in Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama.

Thousands of devotees visit the Ram Janmabhoomi temple for prayers and processions.

5. Krishna Janmashtami — Birth of Lord Krishna

Mathura and Vrindavan are the epicenters of celebrations.

Jhankis (tableau), Raas Leela performances, and midnight prayers attract thousands of visitors.

Unique Regional Festivals of Uttar Pradesh

6. Ganga Dussehra — Celebrating the Descent of River Ganga

Held in Varanasi, Haridwar, and Prayagraj.

Devotees take holy dips and offer prayers to Goddess Ganga.

Grand evening aartis create a mesmerizing spectacle.

7. Bateshwar Cattle Fair

A traditional festival celebrated in Bateshwar, near Agra.

Known for being one of the largest cattle fairs in North India.

A mix of religious celebrations and commercial cattle trading.

8. Makar Sankranti — The Harvest Festival

People take holy dips in the Ganges at various ghats.

Kite flying, feasts, and religious offerings mark the day.

9. Lucknow Mahotsav — A Cultural Delight

Organized in Lucknow, showcasing the city’s rich heritage.

Includes traditional dance performances, music, crafts, and Awadhi cuisine.

10. Lathmar Holi — A Unique Celebration in Barsana

A distinct form of Holi where women playfully hit men with sticks.

Originates from Lord Krishna’s playful teasing of Radha and her friends.

Muslim Festivals of Uttar Pradesh

11. Eid-ul-Fitr — The Festival of Breaking the Fast

Grand celebrations in Lucknow, Agra, and Varanasi.

Mosques are beautifully decorated, and special feasts are prepared.

12. Muharram — A Solemn Observance

Observed with religious processions, especially in Lucknow.

Tazia processions and Majlis gatherings mark the day.

Sikh and Jain Festivals in Uttar Pradesh

13. Guru Nanak Jayanti

Celebrated at Gurudwara Nanakmatta Sahib and Lucknow Gurudwara.

Kirtans, langars, and prayers take place in Gurudwaras.

14. Mahavir Jayanti

Celebrated with grandeur in Jain temples of Varanasi and Ayodhya.

Special prayers and processions are organized.

Modern and Cultural Festivals of Uttar Pradesh

15. Taj Mahotsav — A Celebration of Art and Culture

Held annually in Agra, near the Taj Mahal.

Showcases traditional crafts, cultural performances, and Mughlai cuisine.

16. Kanwar Yatra — Devotion in Motion

Devotees carry holy water from the Ganga to Lord Shiva temples.

Major pilgrimage spots include Haridwar, Meerut, and Varanasi.

17. Buddha Purnima — Honoring Lord Buddha

Celebrated in Sarnath, the place of Buddha’s first sermon.

Devotees participate in prayers, meditation, and cultural programs.

Why You Should Experience the Festivals of Uttar Pradesh

The Festivals of Uttar Pradesh are not just about religious observances; they are an embodiment of the state’s cultural richness. Whether it’s the spiritual aura of Kumbh Mela, the colorful chaos of Holi, or the grand spectacle of Diwali, each festival offers a unique experience. If you wish to explore the cultural heritage of India, these festivals should be on your travel itinerary.

Plan Your Festive Getaway with Adotrip

Want to witness the grandeur of the Festivals of Uttar Pradesh? Let Adotrip curate the perfect itinerary for you. From accommodations to guided tours, we ensure you experience the best of Uttar Pradesh’s festivities without any hassle. Book your trip today and immerse yourself in the cultural wonders of India!

[newzquest]

Chhath Puja: A Sacred Celebration of Sun Worship

Introduction: Chhath Puja, also known as Surya Shashti, is a vibrant and deeply spiritual festival celebrated predominantly in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, and some parts of Nepal. This ancient Hindu festival, dedicated to the worship of the sun god, is a unique blend of rituals, devotion, and community spirit. Historical and Cultural Significance: Chhath Puja…

[rightnewshindi]

रक्षाबंधन त्योहार पर मायके जा रही महिला के साथ युवक ने किया बलात्कार, पुलिस ने मुठभेड़ के बाद किया गिरफ्तार

Uttar Pradesh News: फिरोजाबाद जिले के पचोखरा इलाके में रक्षाबंधन त्योहार पर मायके जा रही महिला के साथ युवक ने रेप किया. दुष्कर्म के आरोपी को पुलिस ने मुठभेड़ में गिरफ्तार किया है. आरोपी के पैर में गोली लगने के बाद इसे हॉस्पिटलाइज्ड कराया गया है. आरोपी का नाम बंटू है जो कि पचोखरा इलाके के नगला सूरज गांव का रहने वाला है. एसपी सिटी सर्वेश कुमार मिश्रा ने बताया कि आरोपी के खिलाफ एक महिला ने दुष्कर्म…

[rishabluxorask]

LUCKNOW INDIA, for more information visit our website Luxor Solutions

website: www.askluxor.com

[meetworks]

New Blog which you should not miss !!!

[dsharma-world]

Holi 2023: Celebrate this festival at 5 best places

Holi 2023: Gear up to travel your best places to enjoy this festival

Holi is a festival of colours and joy among people.  It not only adds a fervour and merriment but  also an enthusiasm in your monotonous life. In this year, this festival will be observed on March 8th. A very interesting story behind the celebration of Holi. It is an ancient Hindu traditional festival. The reason for celebrating the festival signifies eternal and divine love of God Radha…

[divinum-pacis]

January 2025: Prayagraj, India A Panchayati Mahanirvani Akhara devotee performs fire-breathing stunts in a procession towards the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganges and Yamuna rivers, during the Maha Kumbh Mela festival in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh Photograph: Rajesh Kumar Singh/AP

[talonabraxas]

Lord Krishna ॐ Talon Abraxas

Lord Krishna is one of the most popular Gods in Hinduism. Krishna is considered the supreme deity, worshipped across many traditions of Hinduism in a variety of different perspectives. Krishna is recognized as the eighth incarnation (avatar) of Lord Vishnu, and one and the same as Lord Vishnu, one of the trimurti and as the supreme god in his own right. Krishna is the principal protagonist with Arjuna in the Bhagavad Gita also known as the Song of God, which depicts the conversation between the Royal Prince Arjuna and Krishna during the great battle of Kureksetra 5000 years ago where Arjuna discovers that Krishna is God and then comprehends his nature and will for him and for mankind. In present age Krishna is one of the most widely revered and most popular of all Indian divinities.

Each incarnation of Lord Vishnu on the Earth is with a purpose and to accomplish some definite tasks. Lord Krishna came to the Earth to kill king Kansa and to relieve the people of Braj from his torture and tyranny. Later Krishna participated in the events of the Mahabharata and Lord Krishna’s participation had profound effect on the Mahabharata war and its consequences.

Names of Krishna

The name Krishna originates from the Sanskrit word Kṛṣṇa, which is primarily an adjective meaning “black”, “dark” or “dark blue”. The waning moon is called Krishna Paksha in the Vedic tradition, relating to the adjective meaning “darkening”.

As a name of Vishnu, Krishna is listed as the 57th name in the Vishnu Sahasranamam. Krishna is also known by various other names, epithets and titles, which reflect his many associations and attributes. Among the most common names are Mohan “enchanter”, Govinda, “Finder of the cows” or Gopala, “Protector of the cows”, which refer to Krishna’s childhood in Braj (in present day Uttar Pradesh). Some of the distinct names may be regionally important; for instance, Jagannatha, a popular incarnation of Puri, Odisha in eastern India.

[aarohisingh25]

Locknation Fanfic challenge 💚💚💚

I am visiting my grandmother's house for chhat puja ( a major Hindu festival in the states of bihar and uttar pradesh)

I request to all the ficwriters of locknation, to write a fan fic where the gang visits India

Could be for a case or for fun!

You can send the links on this page

Would love to see what your creative minds come up with for my country!

[santoschristos]

(Sanskrit: शाकम्भरी पुर्णिमा, romanized: Śākambharī Purṇimā) is a Hindu festival primarily observed in India in veneration of the goddess Shakambhari. It is observed in the month of Pausha, which usually corresponds with January.Shakambari Purnima is the last day in the 8-day long holiday of Shakambari Navaratri.

Shakambhari is a Hindu goddess of nourishment,

a form of Mahadevi who manifested on earth to save the world from a drought and by slaying the asura who caused it, named Durgama, and restoring the sacred Vedas he had seized back to the Brahmins. According to the Devi Bhagavata Purana, the goddess answered the plea of the Brahmins by producing vegetative products from her own form to feed all the creatures of the earth. She is described to watch over beings to ensure that they are not short of food and water, as well as punishing those who commit sins and evil.

Puja is performed for the goddess both at the houses of adherents and at temples on this occasion. They wake up early, take an auspicious bath, and offer special prayers. A murti of the goddess is venerated with the arati ceremony, with diyas lighted and flowers and sweets ritually offered to the deity. Scriptures such as the Durga Chalisa might be recited.

The Shakambhari Devi Temple of the Saharanpur district of Uttar Pradesh venerates the goddess on this occasion.

Courtesy Dr. Ashima Vadehra Sood

Image: Shakambhari Devi by Mahaboka

[harvardfineartslib]

Happy Holi!

The spring "Festival of Colors" has been a popular subject of Indian painting for centuries; here is a detail of a relatively large panoramic scene produced at the court of the Nawabs of Avadh in present-day Uttar Pradesh in the 1760s:

'Celebrating Holi,' Avadh, c. 1760-1764 Harvard Fine Arts Library, Special Collections SCW2016.12421

[tumkaafiho]

Constitution for a Hindu Nation to be unveiled on February 3, 2025, at the Maha Kumbh festival

For context, the Maha Kumbh is an important Hindu pilgrimage that is currently taking place in Prayagraj (formerly known as Allahabad) in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. The "Constitution" for the "Akhand Hindu Rashtra" ("Unified Hindu Nation") will be unveiled at this festival on February 3rd.

Some important features of this constitution:

It aims to establish a "Hindu Rashtra" (Hindu Nation) by 2035.

It provides for the implementation of the Hindu judicial system

Education in the country will follow the ancient Vedic systems. All English-language schools will be converted to gurukuls (Vedic schools). Islamic madrasas will be abolished.

It will support monogamy and the joint family system.

It will (supposedly) abolish the caste system.

Only Hindus will be allowed to contest elections and only those who belong to faiths founded in India (Buddhism, Hinduism, Jainism and Sikhism) will be allowed to vote.

The Parliament candidates will have to be gurukul students.

To qualify for the position of President of the Hindu Rashtra, candidates will need to have expertise in Dharmashastra and Rajashastra (ancient Hindu texts).

The idea of a "Hindu Rashtra" is not new. While the idea can be traced back to Chanakya, a 3rd-century philosopher, the idea was popularised in recent times by VD Savarkar through his 1923 pamphlet "Hindutva: Who is a Hindu?". In this work, he envisioned a "Hindu Rashtra" that would encompass the entire Indian subcontinent, which he referred to as "Akhand Bharat". Savarkar's ideology emphasized an ethno-religious view of nationalism that prioritized Hindu identity. He believed that Hindus were the rightful inhabitants of India and advocated for their dominance over other communities. Today this idea is being propagated by the BJP (the ruling party at the centre) and affiliated organisations such as the RSS and they have managed to win a significant portion of the Hindu population to it.

The idea of a "Hindu Rashtra" spells disaster for many groups in the country. It overlooks the struggle of oppressed castes who converted to Islam and Christianity to escape the Hindu caste system. India is already discriminatory towards Christians and Muslims, who regularly face discrimination, false accusations of forced conversions, systemic violence, and lynchings. The vision of a Hindu nation also tends to reinforce patriarchal norms and traditional gender roles. Hindutva, the ideology behind the idea of a Hindu nation, glorifies women primarily as mothers and wives, reinforcing the notion that their primary role is to nurture and support the family. It also promotes the restriction of women's participation in public life and their pursuit of a career outside the household. The rise of this conservative ideology has also adversely impacted LGBT rights in India.

This unveiling at the Maha Kumbh raises urgent questions about the future of India. This constitution will also be sent to the Centre once it has been approved by a group of Hindu scholars.

Further reading:

Maha Kumbh: Only Sanatan Dharma followers will have right to contest elections under 'Hindu Rashtra Constitution'

First Constitution of Akhand Hindu Rashtra to be unveiled at Maha Kumbh

Overlooked Danger: The Security and Rights Implications of Hindu

Nationalism in India

Emerging Hindu Rashtra and Its Impact on Indian Muslims

Fascism, Fundamentalism, and Patriarchy

Women Under Hindutva: Misogynist Memes, Mock-Auction and Doxing, Deepfake-Pornification and Rape Threats in Digital Space

[beardedmrbean]

More than 100 people have been killed in a crush at a religious gathering in northern India, officials have said.

The incident took place at a satsang (a Hindu religious event) in Hathras district in Uttar Pradesh state.

The victims, including a large number of women and some children, are still being identified.

Survivors have described how the disaster unfolded as they tried to leave the event in Mughalgarhi village.

A spokesperson for a senior police officer in Uttar Pradesh told the BBC it would "take hours to release the final tally", but confirmed at least 100 dead.

An eyewitness, who asked to remain anonymous, told the BBC everything was "going fine", until "all of a sudden I heard screams and before I knew it, people were falling on each other".

"Many were crushed and I couldn't do much. I am just lucky to have survived."

"When the sermon finished, everyone started running out," a woman named only as Shakuntala told the Press Trust of India news agency.

"People fell in a drain by the road. They started falling one on top of the other and got crushed to death."

Umesh Kumar Tripathi, chief medical officer from the neighbouring district of Etah, told reporters the "stampede" had left at least three children dead.

Distressing images from the site are being circulated online. Some videos showed the injured being taken to hospitals in pick-up trucks, tuk tuks and even motorbikes.

A clip seen by the BBC showed several bodies left at the entrance of a local hospital as relatives screamed for help.

"Such a huge accident has happened but not a single senior officer is present here,” a relative in another video said. “Where is the administration?"

Mr Kumar said the venue had been overcrowded, adding that a high-level committee had been formed to investigate the incident.

"The primary focus of the administration is to provide all possible help to the injured and kin of the deceased," he said.

A video shared by news agency PTI showed the wounded being brought to a hospital for treatment.

"Procedure of post-mortem is under way and the matter is being investigated," official Satya Prakash in the neighbouring district of Etah said.

In Hathras, the screams of distraught family members can be heard in the local hospital.

Many people are trying to find their loved ones, many bodies are unclaimed.

There is a shortage of ambulances – each one is bringing two to three bodies. Hathras is filled with despair and pain.

Accidents are routinely reported at religious events in India, as huge crowds gather in tight spaces with little adherence to safety measures.

In 2018, around 60 people were killed after a train rammed into a crowd watching celebrations for Dusshera, a Hindu festival.

In 2013, a crush at a Hindu festival in the central state of Madhya Pradesh had killed 115 people.

[brookstonalmanac]

Holidays 1.24

Holidays

BCPB (Black & Can’t Play Basketball) Awareness Day

Big Garden Bird Watch (UK)

Bull Day (French Republic)

Colorist Appreciation Day

Day of the Foreign Intelligence Service (Ukraine)

Economic Liberation Day (Togo)

Fiesta de Ekeko (Bolivia)

Foreign Intelligence Service Day (Ukraine)

Global Belly Laugh Day (at 1:24 pm local time)

Gold Rush Day (California)

Healthcare Continuing EducationProfessionals Day

Heart to Heart Day

International ALGS (Alagille Syndrome) Awareness Day

Internal Combustion Engine Day

International Day of Education

International Day of the Endangered Lawyer

International Mobile Phone Recycling Day

International Women’s Sport Day

Juan Pablo Duarte Day (Dominican Republic)

"Just Do It" Day

Macintosh Computer Day

Microwave Oven Day

Minimoog Day

Moebius Syndrome Awareness Day

National ALGS Awareness Day

National Compliment Day

National Girl Child Day (India)

National Heroes Day (Cayman Islands)

National Readathon Day

Paul Pitcher Day (UK)

Social Sipping and Nibbling Rehearsal Day

Square Dance Day [also 11.29]

Talk Like a Grizzled Prospector Day

Tax Ruled Unconstitutional Day

Tricknology Day

TV Game Show Day

World Day for African and Afro-descendant Culture

Zaevion Dobson Day (Tennessee)

Food & Drink Celebrations

Beer Can Day (a.k.a. Beer Can Appreciation Day)

Eskimo Pie Day

National Hot Cereal Day

National Lobster Thermidor Day

National Peanut Butter Day

Nature Celebrations

Change a Pet's Life Day

Saffron Crocus (The Beauty of Moderation; Korean Birth Flowers)

Independence, Flag & Related Days

Fundamental Orders (A Frame of Gov’t; Connecticut; 1639)

Uttar Pradesh Day (India)

Washington, D.C. (Federal District Proclaimed; 1791)

Ziua Micii Unirii (Unification Day of the Romanian Principalities; Romania; 1859)

4th Friday in January

Comfort Food Friday [Every Friday]

Five For Friday [Every Friday]

Flapjack Friday [4th Friday of Each Month]

Flashback Friday [Every Friday]

Flirtatious Friday [4th Friday of Each Month]

Friday Finds [Every Friday]

National Activity Professionals Day [4th Friday]

Newman Day (a.k.a. Newman's Day, 24 hours in a day, 24 beers in a case. Coincidence? I think not.) [Bates College] (Friday nearest 1.26) [also 3.30 & 4.24]

Preschool Health and Fitness Day [Last Friday]

Stout & Chowder Festival (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) [Last Friday]

TGIF (Thank God It's Friday) [Every Friday]

Thorrablot (a.k.a. Þorrablót; Midwinter Festival; Pagan Iceland) [Friday after 1.19]

Weekly Holidays beginning January 24 (3rd Full Week of January)

Baltimore Restaurant Week (Baltimore, Maryland) [thru 2.2]

Data Privacy Week (thru 1.28)

Festivals Beginning January 24, 2025

Ann Arbor Folk Festival (Ann Arbor, Michigan) [thru 1.25]

Aukland Folk Festival (Aukland,New Zealand) [thru 1.26]

Fan Expo Portland (Portland, Oregon) [thru 1.26]

Foggy Longbritches Folk Festival (Brooksville, Florida) [thru 1.26]

First Taste Oregon (Salem, Oregon) [thru 1.25]

Göteborg Film Festival (Gothenburg, Sweden) [thru 2.2]

GWA (Georgia Watermelon Ass’n) Annual Meeting & Conference (Braselton, Georgia) [thru 1.26]

HIPPOLOGICA (Berlin, Germany) [thru 1.26]

Lakeland Pigfest (Lakeland, Florida) [thru 1.25]

Naples Seafood & Music Festival (Naples, Florida)

Naples Winter Wine Festival (Naples, Florida)

Pacific Poultry Breeders Association Winter Show (Lodi, California) [thru 1.26]

Feast Days

Alacitas (Aymara Indian Pot-Bellied God of Property; Everyday Wicca)

Babylas of Antioch (Christian; Martyr)

Blessing of the Candle of the Happy Women Pagan Purification Ceremony; Hungary)

Cadoc Day (Wales)

Cat Sacrifice Day (Aix-En Province, France)

Ekeko Festival (God of Abundance; Bolivia) [Lasts 3 Weeks]

Exuperantius of Cingoli (Christian; Saint)

The Fairy-Four Paganalia (Shamanism)

Feast of Our Lady of Peace (Roman Catholic)

Feast of Seed-Time (Feati Sementini; Ancient Rome)

Felician of Foligno (Christian; Martyr)

Francis de Sales (Christian; Saint) [Journalists, Editors, Writers]

Invent a God Day (Pastafarian)

John Belushi (Hedonism; Saint)

Jools Holland (Humanism)

Klaatu Day (Church of the SubGenius; Saint)

Macedonius of Syria (Christian; Saint)

Paganalia: Gaea’s Day (Celebration of the Country Farmer; Pagan)

Pendulum Dowsing to Find Lost Things (Starza Pagan Book of Days)

The Pendragon Legend, by Antal Szerb (Novel; 1934)

Pratulin Martyrs (Greek Catholic Church)

Sailing of Bast (Ancient Egypt)

Sementivae begins (Ancient Roman festival honoring Ceres (Goddess of Agriculture) and Tellus (Mother Earth)

Solomon (Positivist; Saint)

Stanley the Mouse (Muppetism)

Suranus of Umbria (Christian; Saint)

Timothy, disciple of St. Paul (Christian; Martyr)

Twrch Trwyth Day (Boar hunted by King Arthur; Celtic Book of Days)

Lunar Calendar Holidays

Chinese: Month 12 (Ding-Chou), Day 25 (Gui-Si)

Day Pillar: Water Snake

12-Day Officers/12 Gods: Stable Day (定 Ding) [Auspicious]

Holidays:

None Today

Secular Saints Days

Vicki Baum (Literature)

John Belushi (Entertainment)

Konstantin Bogaevsky (Art)

Cassandre (Art)

William Congreve (Literature)

Pierre de Beaumarchais (Literature)

Neil Diamond (Music)

Mahmoud Farshchian (Art)

Jools Holland (Music)

Machio Kaku (Music)

C.L. Moore (Literature)

Robert Motherwell (Art)

Aaron Neville (Music)

Mary Lou Retton (Sports)

John Romita Sr. (Art)

Kristen Schaal (Entertainment)

Ester Šimerová-Martinčeková (Art)

Vasily Surikov (Art)

Sharon Tate (Entertainment)

Gillis van Coninxloo (Art)

Edith Wharton (Literature)

Warren Zevon (Music)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Shakku (赤口 Japan) [Bad luck all day, except at noon.]

Premieres

Absent Minded Willie (Gaumont Kartoon Komics Cartoon; 1917)

Alice Foils the Pirates (Ub Iwerks Disney Cartoon; 1927)

Amerika, by Franz Kafka (Novel; 1927)

By the Beautiful Sea (Fleischer Screen Songs Cartoon; 1931)

Championship of the Universe Race (Auto/Airplane Race; 1914)

Chicago (Film; 2003)

Clement Lorimer, by Angus Reach (Novel; 1848)

The Courier (Film; 2020)

Danse Macabre, by Camille Saint-Saëns (Tone Poem; 1874)

Evil Ways, by Santana (Song; 19870)

Façade, by Eidth Sitwell (Poem; 1922)

Farewell My Ugly or Knots to You (Rocky & Bullwinkle Cartoon, S1, Ep. 18; 1960)

Felix Flirts with Fate (Felix the Cat Cartoon; 1926)

Fierce Creatures (Film; 1997)

Go Ask Alice, by Beatrice Sparks (Novel; 1971)

Grand Hotel, by Vicki Baum (Novel; 1929)

The Grapes of Wrath (Film; 1940)

Hairless Hector (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1941)

Heir Restorer (Casper Paramount Cartoon; 1958)

A Hollywood Detour (Color Rhapsody Cartoon; 1942)

Ideas on the Aesthetics of Music, by Christian Friedrich Daniel Schubert (Essays; 1787)

Jirel of Joiry, by C.L. Moore (Novel; 1934)

Jules et Jim (Film; 1978)

Kings of the Wild Frontier, by Adam & The Ants (Album; 1981)

The Köln Concert, recorded by Keith Jarrett (Live Album; 1975)

The Little Brown Jug (Aesop’s Film Fable Cartoon; 1926)

Mickey’s Toontown (Disneyland Attraction; 1993)

Mouse-Placed Kitten (WB MM Cartoon; 1959)

Musica-Lulu (Little Lulu; 1947)

My Chauffeur (Film; 1986)

The 19th Hole Club, featuring Al Falfa (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1936)

Noah’s Outing, featuring Al Falfa (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1932)

No Other One (Fleischer Screen Songs Cartoon; 1936)

The Oompahs (Jolly Frolics UPA Cartoon; 1952)

Pluto’s Playmate (Pluto Disney Cartoon; 1941)

A Real Bug’s Life (Documentary TV Series; 2024)

The Rude Intruder (Chilly Willy Cartoon; 1972)

Setting Free the Bears, by John Irving (Novel; 1968)

Shift: Third Shift — Pact, by Hugh Howey (Novel; 2013)

Skid Row, by Skid Row (Album; 1989)

Snake in the Gracias (Tijuana Toads Cartoon; 1971)

Teddy Bear, recorded by Elvis Presley (Song; 1957)

The Treasure of the Sierra Madre (Film; 1948)

21, by Adele (Album; 2011)

Two for the Ripsaw or Goodbye Mr. Chips (Rocky & Bullwinkle Cartoon, S1, Ep. 17; 1960)

Waco (TV Mini-Series; 2018)

The Will to Meaning: Foundations and Applications of Logotherapy, by Viktor E. Frankl (Philosophy Book; 1969)

The Yellow Kid (Comic Strip; 1897) [1st Newspaper Comic Strip]

Today’s Name Days

Franz, Thurid, Vera (Austria)

Bogoslav, Felicijan, Franjo (Croatia)

Milena (Czech Republic)

Timotheus (Denmark)

Naima, Naimi (Estonia)

Senja (Finland)

François (France)

Bernd, Franz, Thurid, Vera (Germany)

Filon, Polyxene, Polyxeni, Xene, Xeni, Zosimas (Greece)

Timót (Hungary)

Francesco (Italy)

Eglons, Krišs, Ksenija (Latvia)

Artūras, Felicija, Gaivilė, Mažvydas, Šarūnas, Vilgaudas (Lithuania)

Jarl, Joar (Norway)

Chwalibóg, Felicja, Mirogniew, Rafaela, Rafał, Tymoteusz (Poland)

Xenia (Romania)

Timotej (Slovakia)

Francisco, Paz, Xenia (Spain)

Erika (Sweden)

Roxanna, Roxoliana (Ukraine)

Oral, Orel, Tim, Timmy, Timon, Timothy, Vera, Verena (USA)

National Name Days:

National Matthew Day

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 24 of 2025; 341 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 5 of Week 4 of 2025

Celtic Tree Calendar:

Druid Tree Calendar: Elm (Jan 12-24) [Day 13 of 13]

Graves Calendar: Luis (Rowan) [Day 4 of 28]

Chinese: Month 12 (Ding-Chou), Day 25 (Gui-Si)

Chinese Year of the: Dragon 4722 (until January 29, 2025) [Wu-Chen]

Coptic: 16 Tubah 1741

Hebrew: 24 Teveth 5785

Islamic: 24 Rajab 1446

J Cal: 24 White; Threesday [24 of 30]

Julian: 11 January 2025

Moon: 24%: Waning Crescent

Positivist: 24 Moses (1st Month) [Solomon]

Runic Half Month: Elhaz (Elk) [Day 3 of 15]

Season: Winter (Day 35 of 90)

Week: 3rd Full Week of January

Zodiac:

Tropical (Typical) Zodiac: Aquarius (Day 5 of 30)

Sidereal Zodiac: Capricorn (Day 10 of 29)

Schmidt Zodiac: Sagittarius (Day 24 of 25)

IAU Boundaries (Current) Zodiac: Capricorn (Day 5 of 28)

IAU Boundaries (1977) Zodiac: Capricornus (Day 6 of 28)

[traveljanah]

Top Tourist Destinations in India

1. Taj Mahal, Agra

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal is a stunning symbol of love built by Emperor Shah Jahan. Its intricate white marble architecture and beautiful gardens are unparalleled.

2. Jaipur, Rajasthan

Known as the "Pink City," Jaipur offers majestic forts, palaces, and vibrant bazaars. Key attractions include Amber Fort, City Palace, and Hawa Mahal, reflecting Rajasthan's royal legacy.

3. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

One of the world's oldest living cities, Varanasi is a spiritual hub. Its ghats along the River Ganges, such as Dashashwamedh and Assi, offer mesmerizing rituals and the famous Ganga Aarti.

4. Kerala Backwaters

The tranquil backwaters of Kerala, particularly in Alleppey and Kumarakom, provide a serene escape. Houseboat cruises offer a close look at lush greenery, paddy fields, and local life.

5. Goa Beaches

A paradise for beach lovers, Goa boasts pristine sands, vibrant nightlife, and Portuguese heritage. Popular beaches include Baga, Anjuna, and Palolem.

6. Leh-Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir

Nestled in the Himalayas, Ladakh is a haven for adventure seekers. Its rugged landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and monasteries, such as Hemis and Thiksey, are breathtaking.

7. Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Known for turquoise waters and coral reefs, these islands are a haven for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. Radhanagar Beach and Cellular Jail are key attractions.

8. Golden Temple, Amritsar

The shimmering Golden Temple, or Harmandir Sahib, is a spiritual and architectural marvel. Its serene atmosphere and the langar (community kitchen) draw millions annually.

9. Rishikesh and Haridwar

Ideal for spirituality and adventure, Rishikesh is the "Yoga Capital of the World" and offers river rafting on the Ganges. Haridwar, nearby, is known for its holy ghats and the Kumbh Mela.

10. Mysore, Karnataka

The "City of Palaces," Mysore, is famed for Mysore Palace and the Dussehra festival. The nearby Chamundi Hills offer a panoramic view of this culturally rich city.

[lunamagicablu]

Il Diwali, o Festival delle Luci, è una delle più antiche e importanti feste che si celebra nel mese di Ottobre, in tutta l'India. La leggenda narra del ritorno del Re Rama della città di Ayodhya (l’attuale Uttar Pradesh) dopo 14 anni di esilio in una foresta. Negli scritti pervenuti fino ad oggi si legge che il popolo della città, al ritorno del re, accese file di lampade, chiamate dipa, in suo onore; da qui il nome Dipawali o più semplicemente Diwali. Si tratta di una festa dedicata alla luce, intesa sia in senso fisico, sia spirituale, che vede accendersi a giorno tutta la città con lanterne nel cielo o candele galleggianti, a simboleggiare la rinascita dello spirito e la sconfitta delle tenebre. I festeggiamenti possono protrarsi fino a cinque giorni e in questo periodo, gli abitanti delle città prestano particolare attenzione alla cura della casa, indossano abiti nuovi e si scambiano piccoli regali in famiglia. Nel corso dei secoli, il Diwali è diventato un festival nazionale, apprezzato dalla maggior parte degli abitanti, indipendentemente dalla loro fede: che sia essa Indù, Jains, Buddista o Sikhs. Tuttavia, a seconda della zona territoriale, l’interpretazione della festa ed il suo festeggiamento è diverso:

Nell'India settentrionale si celebra la storia del ritorno di Re Rama a Ayodhya dopo aver sconfitto l’antagonista Ravana, illuminando righe di lampade di argilla.

L'India meridionale lo celebra come il giorno in cui il Signore Krishna sconfisse il demone Narakasura.

Nell'India occidentale il festival segna il giorno in cui Lord Vishnu, il Preservatore (uno dei membri principali della trinità indù) mandò il demone Bali a dominare il mondo inferiore.

Nonostante però la differenziazione geografica, il fulcro del festival è lo stesso per tutti coloro che ne prendono parte: la vittoria del bene sul male. www.tesoridoriente.net art by_archanain ***************************** Diwali, or the Festival of Lights, is one of the oldest and most important festivals celebrated in October throughout India. Legend has it that King Rama returned from the city of Ayodhya (now Uttar Pradesh) after 14 years of exile in a forest. In the writings that have survived to this day, we read that the people of the city, upon the king's return, lit rows of lamps, called dipa, in his honor; hence the name Dipawali or more simply Diwali. It is a festival dedicated to light, both in the physical and spiritual sense, which sees the entire city light up with lanterns in the sky or floating candles, to symbolize the rebirth of the spirit and the defeat of darkness. The celebrations can last up to five days and during this period, city dwellers pay particular attention to taking care of the house, wear new clothes and exchange small gifts with each other as a family. Over the centuries, Diwali has become a national festival, enjoyed by most people, regardless of their faith: be it Hindus, Jains, Buddhists or Sikhs.

However, depending on the geographical area, the interpretation of the festival and its celebration is different:

In northern India, the story of King Rama's return to Ayodhya after defeating the antagonist Ravana is celebrated, by lighting rows of clay lamps.

Southern India celebrates it as the day Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura.

In western India, the festival marks the day Lord Vishnu, the Preserver (one of the main members of the Hindu trinity) sent the demon Bali to dominate the lower world.

Despite the geographical differentiation, the focus of the festival is the same for all those who take part in it: the victory of good over evil. www.tesoridoriente.net art by_archanain