Celebrate Raksha Bandhan:2009 A spirit of Universal Brotherhood and national Integrity This year Rakhi is being celebrated on 5th of August 2009.
Raksha Bandhan is the Hindu festival that celebrates brotherhood and love. It is celebrated on the full moon in the month of Sravana in the lunar calendar.
The word Raksha means protection, whilst Bandhan is the verb to tie. Traditionally, during the festival sisters tie a rakhi, a bracelet made of interwoven red and gold threads, around their brothers' wrists to celebrate their relationship.
These days,’Rakhi’ what it is called popularly is being observed by the people irrespective of cast and creed across not only in Indian states but every corner of the world. the festival has developed with others joining in the festivities:
Priests tie rakhis around the wrists of congregation members.Rakhis are often shared between close friends. Rakhis are tied around the wrists of soldiers.
It is believed that when a woman ties a rakhi around the hand of a man it becomes obligatory for him to honour his religious duty and protect her.
Traditional stories state that rakhis are blessed with sacred verses and are encompassed by them. In fact,Rakhi is a‘Sisters’ Day’.Sisters tie the sacred knot of colourful Rakhis around the wrists of their brother ,in return brothers take vows to protect their sisters from all evils.
There are many myth and related stories reflect in Rakhsa Bandhan celebrations.
Sometimes rakhis are consecrated in rice and grass before they are given, and are traditionally tied by people familiar with the Vedas.
Following these customs the rakhi is believed to remove sin from one hand and provide safety to the other. As the rakhi is tied, a prayer is offered asking for happiness and prosperity.
Today rakhis are often decorated with multi-coloured silk thread, and often adorned with stones and beads. Once the rakhi has been tied a mantra is chanted mostly in Sanskrit .
At the end of the ceremony the sister places a sweet in her brother’s mouth. Following this her brother gives her a small monetary gift of appreciation.
This festival has evolved over the years to encompass the importance of many people in especially Hindu society, yet foremost it continues to honour and uphold the relationship between a sister and brother.
By this time,Rakhi Celebration has taken a meaningful customs and the spirit of National integrity evolves in the country.Rakhi has become a means of a great business which looming over the markets. Designers also emerge out to create
Designers’ Rakhi with jewelries too.’Gift –business’incuding variesties of sweets also have become online and doing brisk marketing.
.(Based on BBC Report)
Bangla 'Naba Barsha'
Bangla 'Naba Barsha'
1416 Naba Barsha is the celebration of Bengali New Year !! Naba Barsha in Bengal marks the first day of Baisakh - the first month of Bengali Calendar. The festival usually falls on the 13th or 14th day of April according to English Calendar Year. Naba Barsha festival is known as Poila Baisakh in Bangladesh and is celebrated as a national holiday. Naba Barsha Traditions and Customs
Joyful and culturally rich people of West Bengal celebrate Naba Barsha by dutifully performing set customs and traditions. To welcome the New Year, people clean and decorate their houses. A very important tradition of Naba Varsha is the making of elaborate rangolis or alpanas in front of the house by womenfolk. Rangolis are prepared with flour and its center is adorned with earthenware pot decorated with auspicious swastika. This pot is filled with holy water and mango leaves to symbolize a prosperous year for the family. On Naba Barsha, people of West Bengal propitiate Goddess Lakshmi - the Hindu mythological Goddess of Wealth to pray for prosperity and well being. Many devotees also take a dip in a nearby river to mark the occasion.
For Bengalis, Naba Barsha is the beginning of all business activities. Businessmen and traders purchase new accounting books and start new account known as Haalkhata. People also worship Lord Ganesha by chanting mantras. Naba Barsha Celebrations Naba Barsha celebrations are marked with joy, enthusiasm and hope. Songs, dance, games besides reciting of poems are organized in various parts of the West Bengal to mark the occasion. Enthusiastic people of Bengal also celebrate the eve of Naba Varsha as Chaitra-Sankranti and bid farewell to the past year.
Early in the morning of Naba Barsha, Bengalis take out processions known as Prabhat Pheries. To participate in Prabhat Pheris ladies clad themselves in traditional Bengali sari (white sari with red border) and flowers in hair while men wear dhoti kurta. The day is spent in feasting and participating in cultural activities. People also visit friends and dear ones to wish each other
Baisakhi is one of the major festivals of Sikhs and is celebrated with lot of enthusiasm and gaiety in the state of Punjab and all throughout the world where there is a significant Sikh population. For the large farming community of Punjab, Baisakhi Festival marks the time for harvest of rabi crops and they celebrate the day by performing joyful bhangra and gidda dance. For the Sikh community, Baisakhi Festival has tremendous religious significance as it was on a Baisakhi Day in 1699, that Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru laid the foundation of Panth Khalsa-the Order of the Pure Ones.
Date of Baisakhi
Baisakhi Festival falls on the first day of Vaisakh month (April-May) according to Nanakshahi or Sikh Calendar. For this reason, Baisakhi is also popularly known as Vaisakhi. According to English calendar, the date of Baisakhi corresponds to April 13 every year and April 14 once in every 36 years. This difference in Baisakhi dates is due to the fact that day of Baisakhi is reckoned according to solar calendar and not the lunar calendar. The auspicious date of Baisakhi is celebrated all over India under different names and different set of rituals and celebrations. Baisakhi date coincides with 'Rongali Bihu' in Assam, 'Naba Barsha' in Bengal, Puthandu in Tamil Nadu and 'Pooram Vishu' in Kerala.
Baisakhi Celebrations
People of Punjab celebrate the festival of Baisakhi with exuberance and devotion. As the festival has tremendous importance in Sikh religion, major activities of the day are organized in Gurdwaras. People wake up early to prepare for the day. Many also take bath in the holy river to mark the auspicious occasion. After getting ready people pay a visit to their neighbourdood gurdwara and take part in the special prayer meeting organized for the day. At the end of the Baisakhi ardas, congregates receive specially prepared Kara prasad or sweetened semolina. This is followed by a guru ka langar or community lunch.
Later, during the day people of Sikh faith take out a Baisakhi.processions of school children.Processions also are arranged by the Gurdwaras every where.In Capitals cities like Delhi.Mubai,Chandigarh,Lacknow and out side India where the Sikh are largely infested ,like
Canada,Various States of America,England,South Africa,Kenya etc.Gurdwaras arrange 'Langar-the community lunches'.At Night,Gurdwaras are being illuminated with multicoloured lamps.These days 'Baisakhi' has been spreadout around several states in India besides Punjab.In many places Baisakhi observes a one day holiday.Basically,Baisakhi Festival marks the time for the harvest of Rabicrops and is therefore celebrated with utmost joy and enthusiasm in the state of Punjab where agriculture is predominant occupation of the people .
Birth of Khalsa
The Day of Baisakhi marks the birth of Khalsa Panth and therefore holds tremendous significance for the Sikhs.It was on the Baisakhi Day meeting was organized at Anandapur Sahibin 1699that the tenth Guru of Sikhs,Guru Gobinda Singh,laid the foundation of Khalsa Panth and called on the Sikhs to sacrifice themselves for their community.Besides, it was on this day Guru Gobind Singh administered 'Amrit'(Nectar)to his first batch of five disciples,Who are popularly called as 'Panj-Piaras',making them 'Singhs,a martial community.After The Baisakhi day in 1699 the tradition of Gurus was discontinued and the 'Granth Sahib'-the holy book of the Sikhs -was declared the Eternal guide of Sikhs. Legends:There are legends related with Baisakhi..On the day of Baisakhi Guru Arjan Dev was martyred by the Muslim rulers.It is said that in an act of barbaric cruelty Muslim threw the guru alive into a cauldron of boiling water.Another legend says that on the day of Baisakhi in 1567,Guru Amar Das had first institutionalized Baisakhi as one of the special days when all Sikhs would gather to receive the Guru's blessingsat Goindwal.However,besides legends and faith ,the rural Sikhs of Punjab celebrate the day as harvesting day with songs and eateries and Urban Sikhs celebrates with pomp and glory.
Preface :Who is she? Devi Saraswati -The mother of learning and speeches is one of themost popular Mother Goddesses in India. She also called as Baakdebi or Kala (Art) Devi. In a word Saraswati is Goddess of not only learning but also she is Goddess of Art, Painting, Music andculture. She represents the free flow of wisdom and consciousness. She is the mother of the Vedas, and chants to her, called 'Saraswati Vandana' often begin and end Vedic lessons.
Saraswati endows human beings with the powers of speech, wisdom and learning. She has four hands representing four aspect of human personality in learning: mind, intellect, alertness and ego. She has sacred scriptures in one hand and lotus -the symbol of true knowledge-in the second. With her other two hands she plays the music of love and life on a string instrument called-the Veena. She dressed in white-the symbol pf purity-and rides on a white swan -symbolizing sattwa guna or purity and discrimination. Saraswati is also a prominent figure in Buddhist iconography-the consort of Monjushri. She also called as Veena Badini. She is also calledas Biraj, Sarada, Bramhi, Satarupa, Mahasweta, Sarbasukla, Prithudara, Bagiswari etc.
Myths of Goddess Saraswati: It is normal belief that Devi Saraswati is the daughter of Lord Shiva and Goddess Durga as depicted in Hindu mythology. But, insome other belief, Saraswati stands out as most controversial devi. Starting from Veda, Puranas, Upanishadas to the popular ancient mythology, Saraswati appears through a veil of mystery.According to Matsyapurana, Saraswati evolved from the mouth of Branha. Such was her beauty and grace that Bramha pursued her.As she fled in different directions a head appeared and so Bramha is attributed with five heads, she was the most unique creation of Bramha.
Celebration of Devi :Saraswati is being worshipped in various parts of India especially in west Bengal, Orissa, Bihar, Kerala, Gujarat and big cities like Delhi, Benaras, Patna Bhubaneswar and even in foreign countries like Bangla Desh,America, mEurope, Japan, Nepal and other places where Bengali Communities used to live. Interestingly,Devi Saraswati puja held in
Open. Normally ,She has no temple. Students worship her in their schools.
However, Sraswati does have a temple in Basar at adistance of 40 Km. From Nizamabad in Adilabad District, AndhraPradesh on the bank of Godavari River. People from all over India plunge towards the temple troughout the year. Rituals:Interestingly,Saraswati Puja being worshipped mainly by the Students all over the country. Vasanata Panchami or Shree Panchami ,which is the day of the beginning of the Spring coincides with Saraswati Puja. The most significant aspect of the day is that the Children are taught reading and writing their first words on this day of Mahga- as it is considered as an auspicious day to begin a childs education. In Bengal its called as 'Haate khari'. Educational institutions organize special prayers for Devi on this day. Students take part in 'Pushpanjali'(Flower-offering) after puja. There are various rituals that are followed in the worshipping Saraswati. The ones common to all those worshipping Saraswati are that the idol of the Goddess is clothed in white, the other predominant colour in the celebrations is yellow(Basanti colour), to indicate the onset of spring and the blossoming of mustared flowers. Flowers and wild berries are offered to the Goddess and students place their books before the deity. An elaborate puja ,with sandal wood , ghee,jobs,sticks and incense is done to the slokas ,conck shells and drums. In some places kite flying also held as part of the Puja.
*Lohri and Makar sankranti : India's two joyful celebrations* What is Lohri Lohri, is celebrated every year on 13th of January. It is a festival to worship fire. Lohri Festival is celebrated with great pomp in North India. As the date of Lohri is decided according to the position of the sun its date remains fixed. Lohri marks the coldest day of winter. People of Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Delhi joyfully pass it by dancing around the sacred bonfires. Lohri Festival gives some respite to the people as it marks the end of tough winter season. At this time Earth starts moving towards the sun marking the auspicious period of Uttarayan First Lohri is very important for the newly wed and the new born babies as it marks fertility. At night, people gather around the bonfire and throw til, puffed rice & popcorns into the flames of the bonfire. Prayers are offered to the bonfire seeking abundance & prosperity. People make merry by dancing & singing traditional folk songs.
Lohri - the popular bonfire & and crop harvesting festival of North India is celebrated on 13th January every year. In Punjab, Rabi or winter crop is sown in the month of October and harvested in the month of March or April. For the farming community mid-January is an apt time to celebrate Lohri as fields are blooming and promising a golden harvest at that time. Besides, January is the period of rest for farmers as there is still sometime before they begin cutting of the crop.So,this is most suitable time to celebrate Lohri festival.
It is traditionally said that the history of Lohri,is as old as that of the story of Indus Valley Civilization itself. The Lohri of North India and especially of Punjab marks the beginning of the end of winter and the coming of spring and New Year.The Lohri coincides with Pongal
in Tamil Nadu,Makar Sankrantiin Bengal,Magh Bihu in Assam,Tai Pongal in Kerala,all celebrated on the auspicious day of Makar Sankranti. Folk tale of Dulla Bhatti & origin of Lohri
History of Lohri
There are some interesting socio-cultural and folk-legends related with Lohri festival in Punjab.Bhatti was a regional king of Pindi Bhattian (now in Pakistan) and from Rajput tribe during the period of Mughal Emperor Akbar.He was put to death for revolting against Mughals.The tribel folk singers composed songs on the bravery and kindness of Dulla Bhatti.He was like Robim hood who used to robbed the rich and gave them to the poor.. The people of the area loved and respected him. He once rescued a girl from kidnappers and adopted her as his daughter. His people would remember their hero every year on Lohri. Groups of children moved from door to door, singing the Dulla Bhatti folk-song.So,Lohri festival is related deeply with Dulla Bhatti in rural Punjab.Other beliefs,Some believe that Lohri has derived its name from Loi, the wife of Sant Kabir, for in rural Punjab Lohri is pronounced as Lohi. Others believe that Lohri comes from the word 'loh', a thick iron sheet tawa used for baking chapattis for community feasts. Another legend says that Holika and Lohri were sisters. While the former perished in the Holi fire, the latter survived. Eating of til (sesame seeds) and rorhi (jaggery) is considered to be essential on this day. Perhaps the words til and rorhi merged to become tilorhi, which eventually got shortened to Lohri. How it celebrates In Punjab Since this is primarily festival of Punjab,naturally,Punjab's folk/rural culture reflects in Lohri festivities. Since, every year, Lohri falls on 13th January and right through the bitter winter day, men, women and children go around collecting dry twigs and branches to make a bonfire. The bigger the bonfire the better is Lohri celebration. Come evening and the bonfire is lighted with family and neighbors singing and dancing around it. The fire indicates the spark of life and prayers are said for goodwill and abundant crops. People gather round the bonfire and say prayers, and this is usually followed by dancing.
Huge bonfires are lit in the harvested fields and in the front yards of houses and people gather around the rising flames, circle around (parikrama) the bonfire and throw puffed rice, popcorn and other munchies into the fire, shouting "Aadar aye dilather jaye" (May honor come and poverty vanish!), and sing popular folk songs. During the parikrama it is traditional to throw popcorn, til, peanuts and jaggery into the fire. These are healthy winter foods and til is also considered to be holy.
After the parikrama, people meet friends and relatives, exchange greetings and gifts, and distribute prasad (offerings made to god). The prasad comprises five main items: til, gajak, jaggery, peanuts, and popcorn. Winter savories are served around the bonfire with the traditional dinner of makki-ki-roti (multi-millet hand-rolled bread) and sarson-ka-saag (cooked mustard herbs).
Punjabi celebrate Lohri every year with great enthusiasm as it is a festival of joy and it also heralds spring. Also, sowing of a crop is always a reason to celebrate in Punjab, where the majority of the population is into agriculture. People enthusiastically participate in the dancing that is held around the bonfire. Bhangra dance by men begins after the offering to the bonfire. Dancing continues till late night with new groups joining in amid the beat of drums. Traditionally, women do not join Bhangra. They hold a separate bonfire in their courtyard orbiting it with the graceful Gidda dance. Significance of Lohri Date The 13th day of January or the date of Lohri is considered extremely auspicious by
Hindus as it marks the sun's entry in to the 'Makar Rashi' (the Capricorn) from the Tropic
of Cancer. In other words, sun starts moving towards Uttarayan (North) from
Dakshinayana (south). The earth is farthest from the sun at this time and begins its
journey towards the sun. Thus, marking the end of the coldest month of the year (Paush)
and the beginning of the month of Magh (January- February).The period of Uttarayan
(January 14 to July 14) is regarded sacred by Hindus. According to Bhagwat Gita, Lord
Krishna manifests himself in his full magnificence during this time. Festival of Lohri is
succeeded by Makar Sankranti. The auspicious date of Sankranthi (January 14) is
celebrated all over the country by different names and in different manner.
The festival is spread over three days in South India and also signifies the beginning of
harvesting. A rath yatra is taken out from the Kandaswamy temple in Chennai on
Pongal. Makar sankranti: The day is celebrated at Ganga-Sagara in West Bengal and according a belief, Hindus purify their sins by taking bath in the Ganges. A big fair is also held on the Sagara Island, 64 km from the Diamond harbour near kolkata where the Ganga meets the Bay of Bengal.
Makar Sankranti Mela or a fair also being organized at Jaideva-Kenduli(Nannoor,in Birbhum district) by the
shore of Ajay River in west Bengal.
" Call it Lohri, Pongal or Sankranti, the festival conveys the same message -- the bond of
brotherhood and the spirit of oneness should prevail despite all odds."
HAPPY NEW YEAR HAPPY NEW YEAR HAPPY NEW YEAR 2009
What is New year's Day : An age old Tradition
New Year's Day is a time to start new beginning with fresh thoughts and energy. Its a time to look forward towards future with a hope of happiness, fun and contentment. New Year's Day is the first day of the new year. On the modern Gregorian calendar, it is celebrated on January 1, as it was also in ancient Rome (though other dates were also used in Rome). In all countries using the Gregorian calendar, except for Israel, it is a public holiday, often celebrated with fireworks at the stroke of midnight as the new year starts.
January 1 on the Julian calendar corresponds to January 14 on the Gregorian calendar, and it is on that date that followers of some of the Eastern Orthodox churches celebrate the New Year. The Gregorian Calender The Gregorian calendar is the most widely used calendar in the world today. It was first proposed by the Calabrian doctor Aloysius Lilius, and decreed by Pope Gregory XIII, after whom it was named, on 24 February 1582 by the papal bull Inter gravissimas.
It is a reform of the Julian calendar and continues the year numbering system of the Julian calendar, counting years from the traditional Incarnation of Jesus. Years after this date are given the designation "anno Domini" (AD), or "Common Era" (CE); years before this date are labeled "before Christ" (BC), or "Before the Common Era" (BCE). Modern Day Celebration of 1st January & Resolutions. January 1 marks the end of a period of remembrance of a particular passing year,especially on radio, television, and in newspapers, which usually starts right after Christmas Day. Publications often have year-end articles that review the changes during the previous year. Common topics include politics, natural disasters, music and the arts, and the listing of significant individuals who died during the past year. Often there are also articles on planned or expected changes in the coming year, such as the description of new laws that often take effect on January 1.
This day is traditionally a religious feast, but since the 1900s has become an occasion for celebration the night of December 31, called New Year's Eve. There are often fireworks at midnight. Depending on the country, individuals may be allowed to burn fireworks, even if it is forbidden the rest of the year. Resolution
New Year's Day is also a memorable occasion to make New Year's resolutions, which they hope to fulfill in the coming year; the most popular ones in the western world include to stop tobacco smoking or drinking alcohol, or to lose weight or get physically fit. Many groups organize Polar Bear Plunges on this day.The present day world demands a global resolution of peace and non-violence. Terrorism looming over the sky of the world .From United States to Europe ,from Middle east to China, terrorism casts its shadow over mankind.Recent Mumbai carnage in India has been an eye-opener to the peace-loving people. So,New Year is the memorable day for not only the Christians all over but also for the whole mankind irrespective of cast ,clor and creed. Our resolution to day is the 'NO WAR' wish for every body.We believe in Universal brotherhood and shall perform accordingly.God Bless us all
(Ref: From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia)
(CII-news:30.12.08)
CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION
Christmas also referred to as Christmas Day or Christmastide, is an annual holiday celebrated on December 25 that marks and honors the birth of Jesus of Nazareth.The birth of Jesus, which is the basis for the anno Domini system of dating, is thought to have occurred between 7 and 2 BC. December 25 is not thought to be Jesus' actual date of birth, and the date may have been chosen to correspond with either a Roman festival, or with the winter solstice.
Christmas is celebrated throughout the Christian population, but is also celebrated by many non-Christians as a secular, cultural festival. The holiday is celebrated around the world. Because gift-giving and several other aspects of the holiday involve heightened economic activity among both Christians and non-Christians, Christmas has become a major event for many retailers.Many Biblical scholars have argued from time to time that December 25th was not the actual birth date of Christ. It was just adopted as a day to celebrate the birth of Christ as a Christian substitute to the Roman festival Saturnalia in the third century. Saturnalia was celebrated as the Feast of Sun and was actually considered the birth date of the Sun God of the Romans.
Catholic priests held a special mass that day for Christ and thus, it came
to be known as 'Christ-mass' or 'Christmas'.
Along with the date, several other pagan traditions, rituals and customs followed the way to become associated with Christmas such as decorating fir trees and burning Yule logs. According to
these scholars, Christ was most probably born on September 11,
3 B.C., which was Wednesday, according to the Bible.
Xmas" and "X-mas" are common abbreviations of the word "Christmas". They are sometimes pronounced "eksmas", but they, and variants such as"Xtemass", originated as handwriting abbreviations for the pronunciation "Christmas". The "-mas" part came from the Latin-derived Old English word for
mass".
(Reference from Wikipedia)
Birth of Christ:
The Story of Christ's Birth
(Taken from Luke 2:1-21)
And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.(And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)
And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.
And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judæa, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David :)
To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that
she should be delivered.
And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.
And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.
And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds
But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.
And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.
And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.
Significance of Santa Claus
The old man with the sack
'Santa Claus' also known a Father of Christmas has become the human face of Christmas. Pictures are seen everywhere of the old man with long white beard, red coat, and bag of toys. Children are taught that he brings them presents the night before Christmas (or in some countries on December 6th - St. Nicholas' Day), and many children up to the age of 7 or 8 really believe this is true. In most countries, it is said that he lives near the North Pole, and arrives through the sky on a sledge (snow-cart) pulled by reindeer. He comes into houses down the chimney at midnight and places presents for the children in socks or bags by their beds or in front of the family Christmas tree.
In shops or at children's parties, someone will dress up as Father Christmas and give small presents to children, or ask them what gifts they want for Christmas. Christmas can be a time of magic and excitement for children. Who was he? Father Christmas is based on a real person, St. Nicholas, which explains his other name 'Santa Claus' which comes from the Dutch 'Sinterklaas'. Nicholas was a Christian leader from Myra (in modern-day Turkey) in the 4th century AD. He was very shy, and wanted to give money to poor people without them knowing about it. It is said that one day, he climbed the roof of a house and dropped a purse of money down the chimney. It landed in the stocking which a girl had put to dry by the fire! This may explain the belief that Father Christmas comes down the chimney and places gifts in children's stockings. What do you want from Christmas?
Many people do hope for more than presents at Christmas. We want to somehow return to a time in our childhood (or some other good time in the past), when life was simpler and made more sense, before the troubles of adult life arrived. We feel sure that behind all the fun and decorations, there must somehow be a message, something more, some key to life, hope and happiness.
So can we look beyond the way Christmas is celebrated today, and find any real meaning, any message for our lives today? The Resolution of the Day On The Eve of both Christmas and New Year, the global people takes oath and resolutions. For cleaning their heart and mind. Under the dense shadow of global terrorism the children of God are passing fearful days. Either in America or Great Britain to middle eastern countries to far eastern zone -people are now at the mercy of Almighty. In India terrorists activities are increasing at rampart, The Indian Christians are at the mercy of political hooligans. Churches are being torched. Millions of Kids have been passing orphaned lives in Indian mega cities. So, our resolution is to work for bringing peace for the world and to wash tears from the eyes of
The orphane children.
"Tamosho ma Jyotirgamaya"
Oh Mother, Lead us to the world of Light from Darkness
"AUM
KRING KALIKAYE NAMAH
AUM"
Who is KALI? Maha kali Puja is the most important and most significant religious
celebration in India, especially in Bengal and in Bangladesh.Devi Kalika
has been described as amazingly granderous pompous icon at the same time most fearful Mother Goddess In Indian ritual belief. She is one of the 10th incarnations (Dashamahavidya) of Super-Goddess Devi Durga yet much
ferocious goddess than her while she had appeared in killing spree during a fierce fighting with demons like Chanda-Munda and Shumbha - and Nishumbha. She forgets about her destructive power. Even, The Gods like Indra became frightened and approached Kailsh Mountain to Laord Shiva and requested him to stop her anger.Otherwise,the fire emerged out from kali;s anger would have had destroyed the cosmic creation of Bramha along with the Demons.Even after killing Asuras the anger was not
stopped.Ultimately,Devi Durga's consort9Who was also consort of Kali) Lord Shiva had to throw himself under ferocious and furious Kali's feet to stop her rage and anger. AT this Kali was shocked and stuck her enormous blood laced tongue out of her mouth and with utter shame She stopped her homicidal rampage and stood still remaining one foot on Shiva's chest. This is the traditional idol of Goddess kali whom we worship.
kali devotees: Mostly Bengali shakto's (The devotees of Lord Shiva) and the Devotees of Devi Shakti across the country are the worshippers of Kali.As per Markendya Chandi,Kalika stotra,Kalika Puran and other Devi puranas,We worship Kali in various time and in various form.We always pray to Mother Goddess to shun out evils from our self,soul and society.We ,believe,the way Goddess Kali in her Chamunda Idol along with her associates Dakini & Yogini had destroyed violent Chanda and Munda ,the same way Devi will kill our inner guilt and ignorance.She will bring Light evading darkness of our ignorance and will bring light of "Gyan" for us.Thats why Kali is ' Kal' and 'I' is Ego.'kal destroys Ego and throw light to us.Its like the chant,Tamaso(darkness) ma Jyotirgamaya,aasato ma amrtang gamaya'.In another Interpretation,Kali is 'maha kaal'-means super space and cosmic enegy.She sustains the cosmic being and so she is Mahakali.Kali Puja is performed essentially to seek protection against evils and demons which create unrest in the society,for general happiness,health,wealth and peace. It is Tantrik puja and performedonly at midnight on amavasya(newmoon night) in October/November.Kali also called as 'Shyama'since her colour is shyam means black.Hibiscus a kind of red coloured flower which is popularly known as 'Jaba phool' is essential for offering prayer to Ma Kali.In undivided Bengal,a large number of Poets have/had written songs/poems on Kali Mata describing her enormous magnanimity and compassion. Of them.Ramprasad Sen,BharatChandra,Kamalakanta and many other 16th century-poets. In middle of twentieth Century Kazi Nazrul Islam who was popular as' Revolutionary Poet' in Bengal wrote a number of devotional mother shyama or Kali songs.In Bengal Shyama or Kali songs are most popular songs in comparision with other songs. In 19th Century Bengal we got many saints who were ardent devotees of Ma Kali. Thakur Ramakrishna, Bamdev, sarvananda, Swami Vivekananda a few amongst them.
When Kali Puja held? There are many role played by Kali.We worship,BhadraKali,Raksha kali,Samshan Kali etc. Kali is such a Devi whom every body afraid of.She is being worshipped when there are devastations,destructions,bad natural
calamities happen like flood,draught,we worship 'Rakhsha kali'. Popular guises and names for Goddess Kali include Shyama, Adya Ma, Tara Ma, Dakshina Kalika, Chamundi, Shyama Kali and Bhadra Kali who is gentle.
We come to know from history,even dacoits used to worship kali to make their plight successful.So,we call her as 'dakate kali'.The paramount place of worshipping Goddess Kali is creamation ground(Samshan Ghat).Preferable time would be dead of night of Kartik-'Amavasya'. (It falls in the month of nov-oct.Veej mantra of Kali Puja is 'Oum Kring Kalikaye Namah,Aum'.'Kring 'is the 'veej akshara' of the devine mother kali. As per ritual and belief,the number of 'Japa' is prescribed at 500,000 and 'homa' with 500,000 ahutis should be performed afterwards.'Kali mantra is the ultimate remedy provided we know what according to Tantra is the ultimate problems.'This year,in 2008,Kali Puja is being held on 28th. October,Tuesday at midnight(As per Bangla calendar ,this will be 11th Kartik 1315,Mongal baar.Amavasya to remain up to night 3.39a.m) The Diwali would be on the same day.So,this Kali Puja can be called as 'dwipanvita'Kali Puja.
Origin of Puja In Bengal? Meditation is essential for Kali Puja.The Meditation is a part of Yoga.The Buddhist Tantriks were first to exercise meditation and through high level meditation they used to raise'kundalini shakti'.They used to meditate following Chinese system(China-achar).They worship Devi'Tara'.During Pal kingdom during 800-1150 A.D.in greater Bengal.These' Bauddha' tantrism flourished and one Vashistha Tantrik brought 'Tara' to Tarapith(Now a Siddhapith" and attained 'Siddhi'.He meditated 'Tara' a incarnate of Kali/Durga sitting on five beheaded heads(Pancha mundi')of human being with the help of Dead bodies. It was called 'Shaab-Sadhaona'. After, few hundreds of years one 'Bamakshepa' (Popularly known also obtained siddhi
by meditating Devi Tara(Kali" Brought by Vashistha.Especially,In various parts of Bengal there are many Famous Kali Idol being worshipped still now.
In Assam also,Devi Kamakshya being worshipped on this auspices day.In Kolkata there are 5 famous age old kali bari existst.One most famous is Kali Mata of Kalighat,one is Dakkhineswar where Thakur Ramakrishna was a ardent devotee of Ma Kali, another is Thanthania and lastly Jaanbazar which was most famous during early 19th century.In Dhaka-Bangladesh Kali-
'Mehar'Kali bari had been very famous.The Neighbouring state of Nepal also famous for its Kali Mataji.There is a saying goes on:where there is a Bengali ,there must be a kali temple.This is the reason how throughout India the Bengalis have been spreading Kali Puja and building up Kali Temples.Now a days Ma Kali is not confined to Bengali community only,the Indians in various parts worship Devi Kalika.In Delhi,there is one Kalkaji Temple.Its said that Kalkaji Meditation Yantra
temple came in to being some one thousand years ago.In many parts of India Mother Kali being worshipped with various names.Around 300 years ago, Maharaja Krishna Chandra and his grandson Ishan Chandra popularized 'Dwipanwita'Kali Puja.
Deepavali & Kali puja
Deepavali or diwali which means illuminations and decorations of houses are must for every Indian.Indians used to light up their houses as to welcome Lakshmi Devi to their houses and to lit up the path of coming back of their ancestors to martya bhumi.Interestingly,Deepavali and Kali Puja happen same time during amavasya.The Deepavali lit up and drive away the darkness of Amavasya.Various kind of Deepavali items filled up the markets.Candels, electric bulbs and earthen lamps are sold at rampart.Some says ,by illuminating the houses people celebrate the coming of Ma Kali also.children in Indian streets are bursted out in happiness and play with crackers symbolizing victory over evils.
India's one of the most important and significant festivals is DEEPAVALI or Diwali.Its festival of lights. Apparently ,Diwali means 'a row of lights". As per Upanishada we pray to cosmic power 'Tamasoh ma Jyotirgamaya'(from darkness lead us to light eternal).Even after ages,our prayer for light continues to remain in the form of Deepavali performances across the country. By illuminating our houses, we drive out evils (Darkness) not only from our houses ,we try to shun out our inner evils or 'a-sat'(Untruth) thoughts from our soul and society too.Deepavali also coincides with Kali Puja ,one of the strongest incarnations of Devi Durga's Dashamahavidya who is also symbolizes a death to Asura.she kills asura (Evil) and restore peace in the earth.And illuminates lives of her children and protects them.She Punishes Asura,a-sattya,guilt and crime.
Significance:
Deepavali or'The festival of lights' is celebrated with much enthusiasm and zeal in especially all of north India. In fact the festival of Diwali is regarded to bring the supernatural joy and brightness in a person's life with the hope of discovering light amidst darkness, achieving happiness in place of ignorance and spreading of love amidst hatred and violence. The tradition of lighting the diyas on Diwali holds much importance as in our mythology the light signifies goodness and vitality. In cities candles and classy neon lights often substitute these diyas.
When Deepavali falls?
Diwali falls on the last two days of the dark half of the month of Kartik (October-November).This year its on 28th October(11th Kartik 1315) For some it is a three-day festival.Normally, It commences with the 'Dhan-Teras', on the 13th day of the dark half of Kartik, followed the next day by the Narak Chaudas, the 14th day, and by Deepavali proper on the 15th day.
Mythological believes: And Regional rituals
There are various interpretations,rituals and beliefs about the origin attributed to Deepavali festival. In some Indian states people celebrate the marriage of Lakshmi with Lord Vishnu on this day and in in some places People worship Shri Ganeshji along with Goddess of wealth Maha Lakhsmi. In West Bengal and in Bangladesh, the festival is dedicated to the worship of Mother Goddess Kali. It also commemorates the blessed day on which the triumphant Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana.Ayodhya was stated to be illuminated with thousands of earthen lamps to welcome Rama. On this day also Sri Krishna killed the demon Narakasura. Diwali signifies many different things to people across the country.Though everywhere, it is celebrated with the same sprit and signifies the renewal of life.
South Indian customs
In South India people take an oil bath which is called 'Ganges bath'.in the morning and wear new clothes. They partake of sweetmeats. They light fireworks which are regarded as the effigies of Narakasura who was killed on this day. Everyone forgets and forgives the wrongs done by others. There is an air of freedom, festivity and friendliness everywhere. This festival brings about unity. It instills charity in the hearts of people. Waking up during the Brahmamuhurta (at 4a.m.) is a great blessing from the standpoint of health, ethical discipline, efficiency in work and spiritual advancement. It is on Deepavali that everyone wakes up early in the morning. The sages who instituted this custom must have cherished the hope that their descendents would realise its benefits and make it a regular habit in their lives.
On this day the merchants in North India open their new account books and pray for success and prosperity during the coming year. The homes are cleaned and decorated by day and illuminated by night with earthern oil-lamps. The best and finest illuminations are to be seen in Mumbai and Amritsar. The famous Golden Temple at Amritsar is lit in the evening with thousands of lamps placed all over the steps of the big tank. Vaishnavites celebrate the Govardhan Puja and feed the poor on a large scale in Diwali.
No,to fireworks with blast sound of bombs:
During Deepaavali and Kali Puja, people becomes enthusiastic and engage themselves in playing with various kind of fireworks.They want to symbolize a token of fiece fight with demons and destroy the Demons and also symbolically celebrate the victry of Lord Rama over Demon King Ravana or just make fun.But,apart from making fun only,people are supposed to be very careful about various important
implications in present day india's undesired situations i.e Terrorist attacks.Not only fear of terrorism,the high decibel bomb blast sound
may hurt the ears of the people and may reach damage to weak heart of patients.The Chemicals used in fire-works may create problems to the eyes too.Doctors warns every time to restrict to certain level of decibel for the sound of fireworks.There would be fear of catching fire also.So,Police and Fire fighting agencies are supposed to be alert during deepavali.
Swami Sivandna preaches:
As ,Swami Shivananda exclaimed in his article 'O Ram! The light of lights, the self-luminous inner light of the Self is ever shining steadily in the chamber of your heart. Sit quietly. Close your eyes. Withdraw the senses. Fix the mind on this supreme light and enjoy the real Deepavali, by attaining illumination of the soul."
He also says,"Many Deepavali festivals have come and gone. Yet the hearts of the vast majority are as dark as the night of the new moon. The house is lit with lamps, but the heart is full of the darkness of ignorance. O man! wake up from the slumber of ignorance. Realise the constant and eternal light of the Soul which neither rises nor sets, through meditation and deep enquiry.
May you all attain full inner illumination! May the supreme light of lights enlighten your understanding! May you all attain the inexhaustible spiritual wealth of the Self! May you all prosper gloriously on the material as well as spiritual planes!"
(Based on Sri Swami Sivananda'article on Deepavali)
Ramadan(Ramzan), the month of fasting for Muslims last for 29 to 30 days. The end of the Ramadan marks the beginning of the Eid-Ul-Fitr. Eid occurs on the first day of the Shawwal, the tenth month of Islamic calendar.
on the last day of Ramadan after sunset, people start sighting the crescent moon as per Islamic norm. As soon as the moon (hilal) is spotted the celebrations for the Eid-ul-fitr begins amongst all the Muslims. The exact date of Eid ul Fitr is not fixed and varies as it depends on the sighting of the moon. Muslims consult with mosques and read Quran for the sighting of the moon. It is customary to walk to the idgah (mosque) for this holy service. The Eid prayer is a noble and impressive event.In Delhi, in the spacious yeard of Jama Masjid multitudes assemble together and raise their hands to the heavens in a ceremony of unparalleled organisation, discipline and equality. According to Islam Eid Celebration abolishes all class consciousness and difference between rich and the poor. After the prayer, the Imam, or the spiritual head delivers a discourse on social and family duties. Everyone prays before Allah(The supreme power)for forgiveness for their sins if committed by them and for protection against misfortune.After,'Namaz, people embrace and greet each other with the words, 'Eid Mubarak' or 'Happy Eid' and head back home for the grand feast.In Delhi,The Shahi
Imam of famous Jama Masjid announces about the sighting of moon first and he calls the Muslim brethren to assemble for namaj.In Mumbai Khwaja Ali baba would be the centre point.
Current moon : waxing crescent 6% of full,can be seen on Thursday, 2nd oct2008 as directed by"Moonsighting Committee Worldwide"(MCW).
(MCW has members from all over the world reporting moonsighting on a regular basis. These are experienced observers who know the importance of sighting. We, at Moonsighting.com, calculate where the crescent sighting is possible for every lunar month. Visibility of the crescent moon is calculated using the criteria, developed after decades of research by Khalid Shaukat. Development of the criteria included several thousand authentic observations, collected over a period of 150 years in different locations of the world. These visibility calculations jive with the observations every month since 1993. Ref:www.moonsighting.com)
Muslims in India and Eid
105 million Muslims make India the second most populous Islamic nation in the world. They form India's largest minority and constitute almost 12% of India's total population.Islam came to India in the 12th century A.D. and opened a dialogue with Indian culture especially under the Mughals. Needless to say, it was a mutually enriching experience. A majority of India's Muslims live in the north but a significant number are found all around the country. Hence their traditions add yet another dimension to the vast cultural landscape of India.
Eid ul-Fitr is an auspicious day with important religious significance. It celebrates the virtues of forgiveness, moral victory, peace, brotherhood and unity. Devotees who go on for fasting in the month of Ramadan feels the sense of satisfaction and accomplishment.
Eid-ul-Fitr is celebrated after the end of Ramadan. On this day celebration, new moon is sighted and Muslims wear new clothes, cook delicacies and visit their loved ones to greet them, with gifts and sweets. The celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr last in three days and is called "The Small Eid." On this day, Muslim family wakes up early in the morning and pray Almighty Allah to seek his blessings. Mens of the family go to attend special prayers being held in Mosque, stadiums, vast grounds. The prayer is soon followed by the sermon.
Muslims celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr by breaking their fast at the end of Ramadan.It is a time of giving and sharing. Muslims celebrate not only the end of fasting but also thank God for the self control and strength that is believed to be embraced by the God. Many believes that fasts gives the power of spiritual realm. People wishes Blessed Eid or Happy Eid (Eid Mubarak) to their friends. After the finishing of their fast, Muslims recite Takbir.
Eid is a family event and families visit each other houses and greet them with wishes, gifts and compliments. People give special charity to poor and it is called 'Zakat.' First time Eid for the new born baby in the family and new-weds is very special and is celebrated with special gathering is organized by the family members.
NAVRATRI - Nine Nights of Devi Durga
"Lead us unto light eternal from Darkness"
India is a land of divine Deities who give us enormous energies and wealth and wisdom and knowledge of understanding of truth which flash out also our inner untruth and darkness.At the same time we,the Indians worships our deities with usual fun and fervour.It proves that all our Puja Celebrations are accompanied with spiritual attainment and performing of fun and enjoyment.We want to please ourGods and Godess through devotional songs,dance.illuminations and decorations. Nava Ratri is an important part of festival season India as because,Til- Tarpan(Mahalya) which we offer to our ancestors Krishna paksha ends (29th day of September this year2008, was the last day of Amavasya) and Devi paksha starts from the first Lunar day(Pratipada),30th of September 2008.And ,same day nava ratra commences. Nava Ratri indicates the day of worshipping Godess Durga.we believe that Devi Durga is the souce of energy and power who drive out 'asaat (untruth)' and leads us to 'saat'(truth),who win over evils(Demon) and destroy them. Navaratri is divided into sets of three days each to adore different aspects of the supreme goddess. On the first three days, the Mother is invoked as powerful force called Durga in order to destroy all our impurities, vices and defects. as told earlier. The next three days, the Mother is adored as a giver of spiritual wealth, Lakshmi, who is considered to have the power of bestowing on her devotees the inexhaustible wealth. The final set of three days is spent in worshipping the mother as the goddess of wisdom, Saraswati. In order have all-round success in life, we need the blessings of all three aspects of the divine mother; hence, the worship for nine nights.
North Indians believe that the war between Ram and Ravana lasted for nine days of Navratri and hence, there is annual depiction of life-story of Rama during these days in rural areas under twinkling stars, which ends with the death of Ravana on Dussehra when huge effigies of Ravana and his demon-brother and son are exploded with fireworks. People often read Ramayana with an aim to finish it in nine days and special puja and decorations are part of the scenery of the season.
'Nava'means 'nine' and 'ratri' means 'night', thus, 'Navratri' means 'nine nights'. There are many legends attached to the conception of Navratri like all Indian festivals but all of them are related to 'Goddess Shakti' (Hindu Mother Goddess,Especially Devi Durga) and her various forms. Though it is one of the most celebrated festivals of Hindu calendar, it holds special significance for whole of India.
In Bengal, Navaratri is celebrated in a grand and lavish manner as Durga Puja as huge idols of the goddess Durga posed as killing the demon Mahishasura are worshipped in almost every street. Huge 'pandals' (tents) are set up. Skilled artists prepare idols painstakingly for community and family worship. Bengal, Bihar and Orissa is full of a frenzy as people offer a number of 'saris', flowers, fruits and 'jewelry' to the Goddess. There are music and dance performances everywhere as people buy new clothes, jewellery and sweets. There are grand processions on the tenth day as idols are taken with pomp and show for immersion in rivers, lakes or seas.
In Gujarat, painted earthen pots are used to represent the Mother Goodess called 'ghata', which is revered as the abode of the goddess. Devotional Garba dances are performed by the Gujarati women around 'ghata' in circles clapping their hands or decorated sticks to the rhythm of the music of energetic traditional songs. After worshipping and 'Aarti', 'Dandiya raas' is performed in colordul traditional attire of Gujarat as a community dance all through the night. Navratris are considered auspicious for buying jewellery and gold.
In Maharashtra, nine days of Navratri are dedicated to Goddess Durga while the tenth day or Vijayadashami is dedicated to Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge and learning. On this day, school-going children worship the tantrik symbol of the goddess for her blessing in their studies and it is considered auspicious day to begin education and learn dance and music, buy new homes, performing housewarmings and weddings and start new ventures.
In Mysore, Chamundi, the royal deity of the Mysore royalty is worshipped durng Navratri with pomp and pageantry. There is a magnificent procession of elephants, horses, chariots and costumed attendants on the tenth day, when Maharaja goes to worship the hilltop temple of the goddess.
In Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, women arrange 'Bommai Golu', a special placing of dolls in various costumes decorated with flowers and ornaments on specially prepared steps. Nine young 'kanyas' or virgins are offered new clothes and sweets as the goddesses and married women share flowers, kumkum and snacks among themselves.
The Hindu minorities of Kashmiri Pandits celebrate Navratri in a subdued manner as all the adult members of the household fast for nine days on water. One important ritual involves a trip to the temple of guardian goddess Kheer Bhawani in the middle of a Sarovar (lake) on all nine days.This year celebrate Navratra from September 29th, 2008.
Shraddha /Pitri pakhsa/Tarpan on 16th September2008
Sharaddh or Shradh is being perform normally to offer prayer (Pinda) with Shraddha(Devotion) to the diseased fore-fathers and other diseased people. Its a kind of holy remembrances. During Ashvin-Amavasya, From no moon day i.e Pratipad(Bengali) or 30thof the other month,Bhadra. this "universal shraddha" day is most important as this day is performed by all the devotees and dutiful lower generations once annually for a fortnight which ends on 12th. Ashvin. Next day ,this year,the 29th October 2008.The people assemble by the bank of rivers along with priests remaining on fast till the ritual ends.There are one peculiar ritual named,' Baitarani Paar".In this case, a cow is given to the priests. To get rid off from the misdeeds committed by the person concern,'Baitarani paar' (Heavenly river). In Shraddh,sesame seeds or black til is essential items and preparation of 'Pinda' for offering to the 'Pretas' of forefathers. Finally,the day comes when the Shraddha rituals are completed after 14 days and on 15th Day 'Til-Tarpan ends.
Shuklapakhsa commences just after Mahalaya.Forefathers' abode is Maha-alaya.So,its called so. Mahalya also signifies the Kailash,the home of Lord Shiva. From where,Devi Durga commences her yearly journey to her Mother's home along with her sons and daughters.
why we perform Shraddh with the help of the priest?
'Ideally, the host should perform the ritual of Shraddha by himself. However, since we do not know how to perform it, we get it done through the priest (Brahmin).
What is the method of performing Tarpan and Pitru tarpan?
On the day of Shraddha, sesame seeds should be sprinkled all over the house, sesame seeds mixed in water should be given to the invited priests (Brahmins) and sesame seeds should be donated.
Why should every son should perform ritual of Shraddha?
Ancestors' soul becomes satisfied only after receiving pinda and water from their son. In relation to this, following is a verse in the holy text Mahabharat that describes 'who qualifies to be called as son'.
What are three historically established phases of Shraddha?
During the era of Rigveda, deceased ancestors were worshipped by offering Samidha (a kind of wooden stick) and Pinda (a rice bowl) to the sacrificial fire.
What is the importance of the ritual of Shraddha?
The ritual of Shraddha not only repays debts towards deceased ancestors, but also makes it easy to repay debts towards God and Sages.With the end of Shraddha orTarpan or Mahalya on Ashvin Amavasya (29th October) actually pitri pakhsha ends and Devi Pakha commences.
Mahalaya The day of Mahalaya is also the day of Remembrance. On this day, people offer Tarpan in memory of their deceased forefathers and the orphan-souls, either human or animals who died uncared for. People of India are assembled on he banks of Rivers, especially,on The bank of the Ganges with many priests seen busy performing 'Tarpan' for devotees in groups. The rituals start from early dawn and last till mid-day. Devotees and worshipers observe a fast since morning and offer food, water, clothes and sweets to their forefathers.
Thus, the auspicious Mahalaya day is religiously observed by performing this important ritual to remember our ancestors by doing the Tarpan in the names of those who were our near and dear ones but who are no longer alive with us today, though we cherish them in our hearts and minds.
After offering Tarpan, people break their fast and have their first meal of the day.
Devi Pakhsa Commences:
Mahalaya signifies the termination of Pitri Paksha and the beginning of Devi Paksha, thus ushering in the season of religious festivals. Durgotsav, as this festival is known in Bengal, commences from Mahalaya - this is the day that Goddess Durga is supposed to begin her journey with her children from her husband Shiva's abode in Mount Kailash in the Himalayas to her parental home to Martya.(The Earth).People assemble for a prayer to invite Devi Durga,who is popularly known as Ma Uma-the daughter of Menaka wife of Giriraja Dakhsha.Subsequently ,the days of Durga Puja started on Mahalya.
CII Salutes Divine-Architect Viswakarma
On 17TH September.
The month of September is the beginning of festival season in India.Lord Ganesha pioneers the journey of festivities followed by the festival of The God of architecture,engineering and art & craft Lord Biswakarma.The heavenly deity is being worshipped by the Factories, Construction sites, Industrial houses, artists, craftsmen and weavers etc.According to mythology it is The Lord Biswakarma,who has created the entire universe as well as The Heaven and The earth.
Biswakarma also credited for creating celestial weapons including The Lord of Gods,Deva Raj-Indra missiles 'The Vajra' in the mythological era.The 'Vajra' was made from the bones of Maha-Rishi-Dadhichi by Biswakarma.The'meaning,Biswa is the Universe and 'Karma'means the engineering efficiency.Thus Biswakarma taught the art of Engineering to the Gods as well as the human being.So,as a mark of devotion the people,especially , related with Engineering and craftsman ship organize yearly celebration and puja of Engineer-God-Biswakarma.
The day normally falls in the month of September(This year its 17th.
September.With a view to pray for Him,the employers and employees just forget the class barrier and give offering to Lord Biswakarma pray for successful works and inspirations from Him.
The celebrations are being organized across the country.The factories and hardware shops are closed in most of the places.The Idol of the deity are made from clay and dry grasses,soil and colours with decorative glittering items.His appurtenance(bahana) is the elephant.He holds in his four hands ,a water pot,the Vedas,a noose and craftmen's tools.
Biswakarma Puja is an inspiration for many to create new products and increase productivity for the working class.The workers in many places take vow to increase theirproductive powers from this auspicious day.
Shri Ganesh Chaturthi.
News: (03..9.08): The 10-day-long Ganesh Utsav kickstarts today,September 3, 2008) in Mumbai, India`s financial capital and other parts of this western state of Maharashtra with religious fervour and gaiety amidst unprecedented security arrangements this time in the wake of recent serial bomb blasts in areas adjacent to Maharashtra.
For the first time in its 75-year history, Mumbai's popular Ganesh idol known as Lalbaugcha Raja and its massive marquee have been insured for a whopping Rs.26.5 million (nearly $600,000).
Ganesha Festival
Ganesha Festival is a day on which Lord Ganesha, the son of Shiva and Parvati, is believed to bestow his presence on earth for all his devotees. It is also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi or Vinayaka Chavithi in Sanskrit, Kannada, Tamil and Telugu, Chavath in Konkani and as Chathaa in Nepal Bhasa. It is celebrated as it is the birthday of Lord Ganesha. The festival is observed in the Hindu calendar month of Bhaadrapada, starting on the shukla chaturthi (fourth day of the waxing moon period).The day falls,usually, sometime between August 20 and September 15. The festival lasts for 10 days, ending on Ananta Chaturdashi. This festival is observed in the lunar month of bhadrapada shukla paksha chathurthi madhyahana vyapini purvaviddha. Ganesha, the elephant-headed son of Shiva and Parvati, is widely worshipped as the supreme god of wisdom, prosperity and good fortune.While celebrated across India, it is most elaborate in Maharashtra, Goa ( Biggest festival for Konkani people all over the world ) Gujarat, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, and other areas which were former states of the Maratha Empire. Outside India, it is celebrated by Newars in Nepal and specially in Mauritius.
Origin of Ganesh Chaturthi The Origin of the festival lies in the Holy Hindu scriptures which tell the story of Lord Ganesha. Lord Ganesha (or Ganapati) (the names mean "Lord [isha] or [pati] of Shiva's hosts [gana]") was created by goddess Parvati, consort of Lord Shiva.
Believe it or not : As per mythological sayings, Once upon a time, Lord Shiva, the Hindu God of resolution, was away at a war. His wife Pavarti, wanted to bathe and having no-one to guard the door to her house, conceived of the idea of creating a son who could guard her. Parvati created Ganesha out of the sandalwood paste that she used for her bath and breathed life into the figure. She then set him to stand guard at her door and instructed him not to let anyone enter.
In the meantime, Lord Shiva returned from the battle but as Ganesha did not know him, stopped Shiva from entering Parvati's private chamber. At this,Shiva, enraged by Ganesh's impudence, drew his sword and cut off Ganesha's head. Pavarti emerged to find Ganesha decapitated and flew into a rage. She took on the form of the Goddess Kali and threatened destruction to the three worlds of Heaven, Earth and the subterranean earth.
Seeing her in this mood, the other Gods were afraid and Shiva, in an attempt to pacify Parvati, sent out his ganas, or hordes, to bring the head of the first living being with his head towards the north (the auspicious direction associated with wisdom). The first living thing they came across was an elephant. So they brought the head of this elephant and Shiva placed it on the trunk of Parvati's son and breathed life into him. Parvati was overjoyed and embraced her son, the elephant-headed boy whom Shiva named Ganesha, the lord of his ganas.It was decided by the Gods and Lord Shiva that Ganesh will be worshipped first before any other god is worshipped.Parvati became happy.Since then Ganesha is being worshipped first than all other Gods.
Socio-Political Background of Ganesha Puja. In 1893, Lokmanya Tilak, an Indian nationalist, social reformer and freedom fighter reshaped the annual Ganesh festival from private family celebrations into a grand public event. Lokamanya Tilak visualized the cultural importance of this deity and popularised Ganesha Chaturthi as a National Festival, 'to bridge the gap between the Brahmins and the non-Brahmins and find an appropriate context in which to build a new grassroots unity between them" in his nationalistic strivings against the British in Maharashtra.
Tilak chose Ganesha as a rallying point for Indian protest against British rule because of his wide appeal as "the god for Everyman". It was an important festival during the Peshwa rule in Maharashtra, but acquired a more organized form all over India during the Swaraj movement (Freedom struggle).
Ganesh Puja in India
Before 2-3 months prior to Ganesh Chaturthi, life-like clay models of Lord Ganesha are made for sold by specially skilled artisans. They are beautifully decorated & depict Lord Ganesh in various poses
Ganesh Chaturthi starts with the installation of these Ganesh statues in colorfully decorated homes and specially erected temporary structures mandapas (pandals) in every
locality. The mandapas are decorated specially for the festival, either by using decorative items like flower garlands, lights, etc or are theme based decorations, which depict religious themes or current events. The statues are worshiped with families and friends. The priest, usually clad in red silk dhoti and shawl, then invokes life into the statue amidst the chanting of mantras. This ritual is the 'Pranapratishhtha'. After this the ritual called as 'Shhodashopachara' (16 ways of paying tribute) follows. Coconut, jaggery, 21 modakas, 21 durva (trefoil) blades of grass and red flowers are offered. The statue is anointed with red unguent, typically made of Kumkum & Sandalwood paste . Throughout the ceremony, Vedic hymns from the Rig Veda, the Ganapati Atharva Shirsha Upanishad, and the Ganesha stotra from the Narada Purana are chanted.
For 10 days, from Bhadrapad Shudh Chaturthi to the Ananta Chaturdashi, Ganesha is worshipped. On the 11th day, the statue is taken through the streets in a procession accompanied with dancing, singing, and fanfare to be immersed in a river or the sea symbolizing a ritual see-off of the Lord in his journey towards his abode in Kailash while taking away with him the misfortunes of his devotees.After the final offering of coconuts, flowers and camphor is made, people carry the statue to the river to immerse it. The main sweet dish
during the festival is the modak or modakam in South India..Another popular sweet dish is the karanji (karjikaiin Kannada) Today, the Ganesh Festival is not only a popular festival - it has become a very critical and important economic activity for Maharashtra. Many artists, industries, and businesses survive on this mega-event. Ganesh Festival also provides a stage for budding artists to present their art to the public. The same holds true for Hyderabad too.
Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrations Outside of India Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated in the UK by the migrant Hindu population as well as the large amount of Indians residing there. The Hindu culture and Heritage Society, UK - a Southall based organisation celebrated Ganesh Chaturthi for the first time in London in 2005 at The Vishwa Hindu Temple. The Idol was immersed in the river Thames at Putney Pier.
The festival is similarly celebrated in many locations across the world. The Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh USA, an organisation of Hindus based in the US organises many such events to mark the various Hindu festivals.
Mauritius declares holiday
Celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi in Mauritius dated back to 1896. The first Ganesh Chaturthi Puja was held at the epth of the 7,Cascades Valley in Henrietta by the Bhiwajee family who is still celebrating this pious festival for more than a century.
Over the years the festival gained such popularity on the island that Mauritian government has attributed a public holiday for that day.( Based on Wikipedia)
Ramadan (Ramzan/Roza) : Before going in to the word meaning of 'Ramadan', it is essential to know Ramadan. Ramadan or Ramzan (Popularly known as 'Roza') in India and in Pakistan is a vital religious performing ritual of Islamic sect.
For a detail interpretations we are quoting the exact meaning from Wikipedia. In Islamic religion 'fasting' is the principle exercise which the Muslims all over the world perform.
The Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar, and months begin when the first crescent of a new moon is sighted. Since the Islamic Lunar calendar year is 11 to 12 days shorter than the solar year and contains no intercalation, Ramadan migrates throughout the seasons. The Islamic day starts after sunset.
*Meaning of Ramadan*
The festival is similarly celebrated in many locations across the world. The Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh USA, an organisation of Hindus based in the US organises many such events to mark the various Hindu festivals.
Ramadan or Ramadhan (Arabic: ?????) is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar.
The word Ramadan is derived from the word "ramd to burn". Fasting in the month of Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam. The month is spent by Muslims fasting during the daylight hours from dawn to sunset. The name came from the time before the Islamic calendar, when the month of Ramadan fell in the summer. Fasting during this month is often thought to figuratively burn away all sins. Muslims believe that the Qur'an was sent down to the earth during this month. Furthermore, Muhammad told his followers that the gates of Heaven would be open all the month and the gates of Hell would be closed. The first day of the next month is spent in celebrations and is observed as the 'Festival of Breaking Fast' or `Eid ul-Fitr.(Ref:Wikipedia)
Janmashtami 2008 is on August 24th Janmashtami celebrates the birth of one of the most famous Gods of Hindu religion, Bhagwan Krishna, on the eighth day (Ashtami) in the month of Sravana or Savana. Lord Sri Krishna was born on the 'Rohini' nakshatram (star). It is generally celebrated in the month of August-September according to the Christian Calendar. Legend has it that Sri Krishna was born on a dark, stormy and windy night to end the rule and atrocities of his maternal uncle, Kansa.
Position of Stars at the time of Birth
It was only on the eighth day of the second fortnight, in the month of Sravana when, the moon entered the house of Vrishabha in Rohini Nakshatra (star) that Lord appeared. According to Barhapatyamana, the month of Sravana corresponds to the month of Bhadrapada Krishnapaksha. Lord was born in the year of Visvavasu, appx. 5,227 years ago.
Celebrated for over Two Days
Janmashtami is celebrated for over two days as "Rohini" nakshatra and Ashtami may not fall on the same day. The first day known as Krishnashtami, as the birth of Bhagwan Krishna falls on the eighth day after Raksha Bandhan, which generally falls in the month of August. The second day is known as Kalashtami.
Welcome the Lord at Midnight
It is only at midnight between the first and the second day that birth of Sri Krishna took place. The actual festivities begin during midnight in this 48 hour period. The celebration reaches its peak at midnight, with the birth of Lord Krishna, with lot of hymns, arti taking place and blowing of the Conch (shankh), rocking the cradle of Lord. The idol of lord is bathed with Panchamrit (A mixture of milk, ghee, oil, honey and Gangajal). The Panchamrit is later distributed as Prasad to the devotees along with other sweets. While some Fast on the first day and break it at midnight for others the fasting continues for both days. The period coincides with rainy season. Eid-ul-Azha / Eid-ul-Zuha /Bakr-Idd - All over India. Preface Special: In the recent Mumbai 26/11/08 terror attack, The Muslims of India especially In Mumbai have become very much upset. The prominent Muslims and the celebrities have sadly announced not to celebrate Eid ul zuha this time.
They will wear black batch tomorrow the 9th of December 2008 to express their condolences for the people who have sacrificed their lives in the violent terror attack.Amongst leading Muslim personalities like Katrina Kaif,Irrfan Khan ,Shabana Azmi,Salim khan,Sajid Khan.Amjad Ali Khan,Javed Akhtar,Zyed Khan,Amna Shariff,Sanjay Khan, Farhan Khan, ,Irfan Pathan and many others will wear black arm band to show sympathy for the victims.-Times Of India).
Eid ul Azah is of the most important festivals for Muslims and is celebrated all over India like other Muslim countries. This Eid is celebrated for three days, i.e. from the 10th to the 12th of month of Dhul Hijjah, and is marked by the sacrifice of animals (goat, sheep, camel, buffalo). This offering precedes the special prayers in the mosques. Delicacies are prepared and served and distributed among families and friends on this occasion.
What is Eid ul Zuha
Eid ul zuha commemorates the mental agony of Prophet Ibrahim, Abraham of the Torah. According to Islamic beliefs, Prophet Ibrahim had been put to a test by God when he was asked to sacrifice whatever was the dearest to him and he decided to sacrifice his first born son, Ismaeil, Ishmael of the Torah. On the altar at the mount of Mina near Mecca, as he was on the point of applying the sword to his son's throat, it was revealed to him that it was only a test to determine his measure of submission to Divine commandments and his love for his Creator, and that it was enough. Instead he would offer Allah the sacrifice of only a ram.
It is in honour of this test of Prophet Ibrahim's determination and his faith that Muslims around the world offer the Eid prayers, sacrifice an animal on the occasion to show their faith, allegiance, submission and sincerity to Allah. This is celebrated on the tenth day of Dhul Hijjah - twelfth month of the Muslim lunar calendar - when the Haj celebrations at Mecca are rounded off by the sacrifice of goats, sheep or camels. In India, the animal used most often for sacrifice is the goat - which is why the occasion is spoken of in Urdu as Bakhr or Bakra-Eid.
For millions of Muslim pilgrims who gather at Mecca in Saudi Arabia, it is a real big day. Muslim calendar being a lunar one, this Eid also depends on the sighting of the moon. On this day of Eid, the pilgrims reach the grounds of Mina where they sacrifice an animal each. The pilgrims then shave their heads. The purpose is to identify oneself in attire and appearance with millions of devotees who converge to Mecca each year for the pilgrimage.
In India, the day begins with a bath, after which namaz is offered. It is mandatory to sacrifice either individually or collectively if one cannot afford the full price of the animal. The sacrificial meat is then distributed amongst family, friends and the needy. Prayer meetings and Eid Milans (get-togethers) are part of the festivities. People visit friends and relatives wearing new clothes and jewellery. Children are given Eidi (gifts and cash money).
* Eid ul Ajha: also known as Baqra Eid, Bakra Eid or Bari Eid.
( reference collected from various websites)
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This year Rakhi is being celebrated on 5th of August 2009.
Once the rakhi has been tied a mantra is chanted mostly in Sanskrit .
e Naba Barsha by dutifully performing set customs and traditions. To welcome the New Year, people clean and decorate their houses. A very important tradition of Naba Varsha is the making of elaborate rangolis or alpanas in front of the house by womenfolk. Rangolis are prepared with flour and its center is adorned with earthenware 
Naba Barsha celebrations are marked with joy, enthusiasm and hope. Songs, dance, games besides reciting of poems are organized in various parts of the West Bengal to mark the occasion. Enthusiastic people of Bengal also celebrate the eve of Naba Varsha as Chaitra-Sankranti and bid farewell to the past year. 
Baisakhi is one of the major festivals of Sikhs and is celebrated with lot of enthusiasm and gaiety in the state of Punjab and all throughout the world where there is a significant Sikh population. For the large farming community of Punjab, Baisakhi Festival marks the time for harvest of rabi crops and they celebrate the day by performing joyful bhangra and gidda dance. For the Sikh community, Baisakhi Festival has tremendous religious significance as it was on a Baisakhi Day in 1699, that Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru laid the foundation of Panth Khalsa-the Order of the Pure Ones.
Baisakhi Festival falls on the first day of Vaisakh month (April-May) according to Nanakshahi or Sikh Calendar. For this reason, Baisakhi is also popularly known as Vaisakhi. According to English calendar, the date of Baisakhi corresponds to April 13 every year and April 14 once in every 36 years. This difference in Baisakhi dates is due to the fact that day of Baisakhi is reckoned according to solar calendar and not the lunar calendar. 
People of Punjab celebrate the festival of Baisakhi with exuberance and devotion. As the festival has tremendous importance in Sikh religion, major activities of the day are organized in Gurdwaras. People wake up early to prepare for the day. Many also take bath in the holy river to mark the auspicious occasion. After getting ready people pay a visit to their neighbourdood gurdwara and take part in the special prayer meeting organized for the day. At the end of the Baisakhi ardas, congregates receive specially prepared Kara prasad or sweetened semolina. This is followed by a guru ka langar or community lunch.
Later, during the day people of Sikh faith take out a Baisakhi.processions of school children.Processions also are arranged by the Gurdwaras every where.In Capitals cities like Delhi.Mubai,Chandigarh,Lacknow and out side India where the Sikh are largely infested ,like 
The Day of Baisakhi marks the birth of Khalsa Panth and therefore holds tremendous significance for the Sikhs.It was on the Baisakhi Day meeting was organized at Anandapur Sahibin 1699that the tenth Guru of Sikhs,Guru Gobinda Singh,laid the foundation of Khalsa Panth and called on the Sikhs to sacrifice themselves for their community.Besides, it was on this day Guru Gobind Singh administered 'Amrit'(Nectar)to his first batch of five disciples,Who are popularly called as 'Panj-Piaras',making them 'Singhs,a martial community.After The Baisakhi day in 1699 the tradition of Gurus was discontinued and the 'Granth Sahib'-the holy book of the Sikhs -was declared the Eternal guide of Sikhs.
Myths of Goddess Saraswati: 
the daughter of Lord Shiva and Goddess Durga as depicted in Hindu mythology. But, insome other belief, Saraswati stands out as most controversial devi. Starting from Veda, Puranas, Upanishadas to the popular ancient mythology, Saraswati appears through a veil of mystery.According to Matsyapurana, Saraswati evolved from the mouth of Branha. Such was her beauty and grace that Bramha pursued her.As she fled in different directions a head appeared and so Bramha is attributed with five heads, she was the most unique creation of Bramha.
Saraswati are that the idol of the Goddess is clothed in white, the other predominant colour in the celebrations is yellow(Basanti colour), to indicate the onset of spring and the blossoming of mustared flowers. Flowers and wild berries are offered to the Goddess and students place their books before the deity. An elaborate puja ,with sandal wood , ghee,jobs,sticks and incense is done to the slokas ,conck shells and drums. In some places kite flying also held as part of the Puja.
Lohri, is celebrated every year on 13th of January. It is a festival to worship fire. Lohri Festival is celebrated with great pomp in North India. As the date of Lohri is decided according to the position of the sun its date remains fixed. Lohri marks the coldest day of winter. People of Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Delhi joyfully pass it by dancing around the sacred bonfires. Lohri Festival gives some respite to the people as it marks the end of tough winter season. At this time Earth starts moving towards the sun marking the auspicious period of Uttarayan First Lohri is very important for the newly wed and the new born babies as it marks fertility. At night, people gather around the bonfire and throw til, puffed rice & popcorns into the flames of the bonfire. Prayers are offered to the bonfire seeking abundance & prosperity. People make merry by dancing & singing traditional folk songs.
There are some interesting socio-cultural and folk-legends related with Lohri festival in Punjab.Bhatti was a regional king of Pindi Bhattian (now in Pakistan) and from Rajput tribe during the period of Mughal Emperor Akbar.He was put to death for revolting against Mughals.The tribel folk singers composed songs on the bravery and kindness of Dulla Bhatti.He was like Robim hood who used to robbed the rich and gave them to the poor.. The people of the area loved and respected him. He once rescued a girl from kidnappers and adopted her as his daughter. His people would remember their hero every year on Lohri. Groups of children moved from door to door, singing the Dulla Bhatti folk-song.So,Lohri festival is related deeply with Dulla Bhatti in rural Punjab.Other beliefs,Some believe that Lohri has derived its name from Loi, the wife of Sant Kabir, for in rural Punjab Lohri is pronounced as Lohi. Others believe that Lohri comes from the word 'loh', a thick iron sheet tawa used for baking chapattis for community feasts. Another legend says that Holika and Lohri were sisters. While the former perished in the Holi fire, the latter survived. Eating of til (sesame seeds) and rorhi (jaggery) is considered to be essential on this day. Perhaps the words til and rorhi merged to become tilorhi, which eventually got shortened to Lohri.
Since this is primarily festival of Punjab,naturally,Punjab's folk/rural culture reflects in Lohri festivities. Since, every year, Lohri falls on 13th January and right through the bitter winter day, men, women and children go around collecting dry twigs and branches to make a bonfire. The bigger the bonfire the better is Lohri celebration. Come evening and the bonfire is lighted with family and neighbors singing and dancing around it. The fire indicates the spark of life and prayers are said for goodwill and abundant crops. People gather round the bonfire and say prayers, and this is usually followed by dancing. 
The 13th day of January or the date of Lohri is considered extremely auspicious by
Hindus as it marks the sun's entry in to the 'Makar Rashi' (the Capricorn) from the Tropic
of Cancer. In other words, sun starts moving towards Uttarayan (North) from
Dakshinayana (south). The earth is farthest from the sun at this time and begins its
journey towards the sun. Thus, marking the end of the coldest month of the year (Paush)
and the beginning of the month of Magh (January- February).The period of Uttarayan
(January 14 to July 14) is regarded sacred by Hindus. According to Bhagwat Gita, Lord
Krishna manifests himself in his full magnificence during this time. Festival of Lohri is
succeeded by Makar Sankranti. The auspicious date of Sankranthi (January 14) is
celebrated all over the country by different names and in different manner.
The festival is spread over three days in South India and also signifies the beginning of
harvesting. A rath yatra is taken out from the Kandaswamy temple in Chennai on
Pongal.
The day is celebrated at Ganga-Sagara in West Bengal and according a belief, Hindus purify their sins by taking bath in the Ganges. A big fair is also held on the Sagara Island, 64 km from the Diamond harbour near kolkata where the Ganga meets the Bay of Bengal.
Makar Sankranti Mela or a fair also being organized at Jaideva-Kenduli(Nannoor,in Birbhum district) by the
shore of Ajay River in west Bengal.
" Call it Lohri, Pongal or Sankranti, the festival conveys the same message -- the bond of
brotherhood and the spirit of oneness should prevail despite all odds."
The Gregorian calendar is the most widely used calendar in the world today. It was first proposed by the Calabrian doctor Aloysius Lilius, and decreed by Pope Gregory XIII, after whom it was named, on 24 February 1582 by the papal bull Inter gravissimas.
Christmas also referred to as Christmas Day or Christmastide, is an annual holiday celebrated on December 25 that marks and honors the birth of Jesus of Nazareth.The birth of Jesus, which is the basis for the anno Domini system of dating, is thought to have occurred between 7 and 2 BC. December 25 is not thought to be Jesus' actual date of birth, and the date may have been chosen to correspond with either a Roman festival, or with the winter solstice.
was just adopted as a day to celebrate the birth of Christ as a Christian substitute to the Roman festival Saturnalia in the third century. Saturnalia was celebrated as the Feast of Sun and was actually considered the birth date of the Sun God of the Romans. 
And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.(And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)
(because he was of the house and lineage of David :)
To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that
she should be delivered. 
she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their
flock by night.
great joy, which shall be to all people
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. 
the Lord hath made known unto us.
And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.
And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.
And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds
Father Christmas is based on a real person, St. Nicholas, which explains his other name 'Santa Claus' which comes from the Dutch 'Sinterklaas'. Nicholas was a Christian leader from Myra (in modern-day Turkey) in the 4th century AD. He was very shy, and wanted to give money to poor people without them knowing about it. It is said that one day, he climbed the roof of a house and dropped a purse of money down the chimney. It landed in the stocking which a girl had put to dry by the fire! This may explain the belief that Father Christmas comes down the chimney and places gifts in children's stockings.
On The Eve of both Christmas and New Year, the global people takes oath and resolutions. For cleaning their heart and mind. Under the dense shadow of global terrorism the children of God are passing fearful days. Either in America or Great Britain to middle eastern countries to far eastern
zone -people are now at the mercy of Almighty. In India terrorists activities are increasing at rampart, The Indian Christians are at the mercy of political hooligans. Churches are being torched. Millions of Kids have been passing orphaned lives in Indian mega cities. So, our resolution is to work for bringing peace for the world and to wash tears from the eyes of
The orphane children.
Maha kali Puja is the most important and most significant religious
celebration in India, especially in Bengal and in Bangladesh.Devi Kalika
has been described as amazingly granderous pompous icon at the same time most fearful Mother Goddess In Indian ritual belief. She is one of the 10th incarnations (Dashamahavidya) of Super-Goddess Devi Durga yet much
ferocious goddess than her while she had appeared in killing spree during a fierce fighting with demons like Chanda-Munda and Shumbha - and Nishumbha. She forgets about her destructive power. Even, The Gods like Indra became frightened and approached Kailsh Mountain to Laord Shiva and requested him to stop her anger.Otherwise,the fire emerged out from kali;s anger would have had destroyed the cosmic creation of Bramha along with the Demons.Even after killing Asuras the anger was not
stopped.Ultimately,Devi Durga's consort9Who was also consort of Kali) Lord Shiva had to throw himself under ferocious and furious Kali's feet to stop her rage and anger. AT this Kali was shocked and stuck her enormous blood laced tongue out of her mouth and with utter shame She stopped her homicidal rampage and stood still remaining one foot on Shiva's chest. This is the traditional idol of Goddess kali whom we worship.
Mostly Bengali shakto's (The devotees of Lord Shiva) and the Devotees of Devi Shakti across the country are the worshippers of Kali.As per Markendya Chandi,Kalika stotra,Kalika Puran and other Devi puranas,We worship Kali in various time and in various form.We always pray to Mother Goddess to shun out evils from our self,soul and society.We ,believe,the way Goddess Kali in her Chamunda Idol along with her associates Dakini & Yogini had destroyed violent Chanda and Munda ,the same way Devi will kill our inner guilt and ignorance.She will bring Light evading darkness of our ignorance and will bring light of "Gyan" for us.Thats why Kali is ' Kal' and 'I' is Ego.'kal destroys Ego and throw light to us.Its like the chant,Tamaso(darkness) ma Jyotirgamaya,aasato ma amrtang gamaya'.In another Interpretation,Kali is 'maha kaal'-means super space and cosmic enegy.She sustains the cosmic being and so she is Mahakali.Kali Puja is performed essentially to seek protection against evils and demons which create unrest in the society,for general happiness,health,wealth and peace. It is Tantrik puja and performedonly at midnight on amavasya(newmoon night) in 
October/November.Kali also called as 'Shyama'since her colour is shyam means black.Hibiscus a kind of red coloured flower which is popularly known as 'Jaba phool' is essential for offering prayer to Ma Kali.In undivided Bengal,a large number of Poets have/had written songs/poems on Kali Mata describing her enormous magnanimity and compassion. Of them.Ramprasad Sen,BharatChandra,Kamalakanta and many other 16th century-poets. In middle of twentieth Century Kazi Nazrul Islam who was popular as' Revolutionary Poet' in Bengal wrote a number of devotional mother shyama or Kali songs.In Bengal Shyama or Kali songs are most popular songs in comparision with other songs. In 19th Century Bengal we got many saints who were ardent devotees of Ma Kali. Thakur Ramakrishna, Bamdev, sarvananda, Swami Vivekananda a few amongst them.
There are many role played by Kali.We worship,BhadraKali,Raksha kali,Samshan Kali etc. Kali is such a Devi whom every body afraid of.She is being worshipped when there are devastations,destructions,bad natural
calamities happen like flood,draught,we worship 'Rakhsha kali'. Popular guises and names for Goddess Kali include Shyama, Adya Ma, Tara Ma, Dakshina Kalika, Chamundi, Shyama Kali and Bhadra Kali who is gentle.
We come to know from history,even dacoits used to worship kali to make their plight successful.So,we call her as 'dakate kali'.The paramount place of worshipping Goddess Kali is creamation ground(Samshan Ghat).Preferable time would be dead of night of Kartik-'Amavasya'. (It falls in the month of nov-oct.Veej mantra of Kali Puja is 'Oum Kring Kalikaye Namah,Aum'.'Kring 'is the 'veej akshara' of the devine mother kali. As per ritual and belief,the number of 'Japa' is prescribed at 500,000 and 'homa' with 500,000 ahutis should be performed afterwards.'Kali mantra is the ultimate remedy provided we know what according to Tantra is the ultimate problems.'
Meditation is essential for Kali Puja.The Meditation is a part of Yoga.The Buddhist Tantriks were first to exercise meditation and through high level meditation they used to raise'kundalini shakti'.They used to meditate following Chinese system(China-achar).They worship Devi'Tara'.During Pal kingdom during 800-1150 A.D.in greater Bengal.These' Bauddha' tantrism flourished and one Vashistha Tantrik brought 'Tara' to Tarapith(Now a Siddhapith" and attained 'Siddhi'.He meditated 'Tara' a incarnate of Kali/Durga sitting on five beheaded heads(Pancha mundi')of human being with the help of Dead bodies. It was called 'Shaab-Sadhaona'. After, few hundreds of years one 'Bamakshepa' (Popularly known also obtained siddhi
by meditating Devi Tara(Kali" Brought by Vashistha.Especially,In various parts of Bengal there are many Famous Kali Idol being worshipped still now.
In Assam also,Devi Kamakshya being 
worshipped on this auspices day.In Kolkata there are 5 famous age old kali bari existst.One most famous is Kali Mata of Kalighat,one is Dakkhineswar where Thakur Ramakrishna was a ardent devotee of Ma Kali, another is Thanthania and lastly Jaanbazar which was most famous during early 19th century.In Dhaka-Bangladesh Kali-
'Mehar'Kali bari had been very famous.The Neighbouring state of Nepal also famous for its Kali Mataji.There is a saying goes on:where there is a Bengali ,there must be a kali temple.This is the reason how throughout India the Bengalis have been spreading Kali Puja and building up Kali Temples.Now a days Ma Kali is not confined to Bengali community only,the Indians in various parts worship Devi Kalika.In Delhi,there is one Kalkaji Temple.Its said that Kalkaji
Deepavali or diwali which means illuminations and decorations of houses are must for every Indian.Indians used to light up their houses as to welcome Lakshmi Devi to their houses and to lit up the path of coming back of their ancestors to martya bhumi.Interestingly,Deepavali and Kali Puja happen same time during amavasya.The Deepavali lit up and drive away the darkness of Amavasya.Various kind of Deepavali items filled up the markets.Candels, electric bulbs and earthen lamps are sold at rampart.Some says ,by illuminating the houses people celebrate the coming of Ma Kali also.children in Indian streets are bursted out in happiness and play with crackers symbolizing victory over evils.
India's one of the most important and significant festivals is DEEPAVALI or Diwali.Its festival of lights. Apparently ,Diwali means 'a row of lights". As per Upanishada we pray to cosmic power 'Tamasoh ma Jyotirgamaya'(from darkness lead us to light eternal).Even after ages,our prayer for light continues to remain in the form of Deepavali performances across the country. By illuminating our houses, we drive out evils (Darkness) not only from our houses ,we try to shun out our inner evils or 'a-sat'(Untruth) thoughts from our soul and society too.Deepavali also coincides with Kali Puja ,one of the strongest incarnations of Devi Durga's Dashamahavidya who is also symbolizes a death to Asura.she kills asura (Evil) and restore peace in the earth.And illuminates lives of her children and protects them.She Punishes Asura,a-sattya,guilt and crime.
Deepavali or'The festival of lights' is celebrated with much enthusiasm and zeal in especially all of north India. In fact the festival of Diwali is regarded to bring the supernatural joy and brightness in a person's life with the hope of discovering light amidst darkness, achieving happiness in place of ignorance and spreading of love amidst hatred and violence. The tradition of lighting the diyas on Diwali holds much importance as in our mythology the light signifies goodness and vitality. In cities candles and classy neon lights often substitute these diyas.
Diwali falls on the last two days of the dark half of the month of Kartik (October-November).This year its on 28th October(11th Kartik 1315) For some it is a three-day festival.Normally, It commences with the 'Dhan-Teras', on the 13th day of the dark half of Kartik, followed the next day by the Narak Chaudas, the 14th day, and by Deepavali proper on the 15th day.
During Deepaavali and Kali Puja, people becomes enthusiastic and engage themselves in playing with various kind of fireworks.They want to symbolize a token of fiece fight with demons and destroy the Demons and also symbolically celebrate the victry of Lord Rama over Demon King Ravana or just make fun.But,apart from making fun only,people are supposed to be very careful about various important 
As ,Swami Shivananda exclaimed in his article 'O Ram! The light of lights, the self-luminous inner light of the Self is ever shining steadily in the chamber of your heart. Sit quietly. Close your eyes. Withdraw the senses. Fix the mind on this supreme light and enjoy the real Deepavali, by attaining illumination of the soul."
He also says,"Many Deepavali festivals have come and gone. Yet the hearts of the vast majority are as dark as the night of the new moon. The house is lit with lamps, but the heart is full of the darkness of ignorance. O man! wake up from the slumber of ignorance. Realise the constant and eternal light of the Soul which neither rises nor sets, through meditation and deep enquiry. 
Ramadan(Ramzan), the month of fasting for Muslims last for 29 to 30 days. The end of the Ramadan marks the beginning of the Eid-Ul-Fitr. Eid occurs on the first day of the Shawwal, the tenth month of Islamic calendar.
on the last day of Ramadan after sunset, people start sighting the crescent moon as per Islamic norm. As soon as the moon (hilal) is spotted the celebrations for the Eid-ul-fitr begins amongst all the Muslims. The exact date of Eid ul Fitr is not fixed and varies as it depends on the sighting of the moon. Muslims consult with mosques and read Quran for the sighting of the moon. It is customary to walk to the idgah (mosque) for this holy service. The Eid prayer is a noble and impressive event.In Delhi, in the spacious yeard of Jama Masjid multitudes assemble together and raise their hands to the heavens in a ceremony of unparalleled organisation, discipline and equality. According to Islam Eid Celebration abolishes all class consciousness and difference between rich and the poor. After the prayer, the Imam, or the spiritual head delivers a discourse on social and family duties. Everyone prays before Allah(The supreme power)for forgiveness for their sins if committed by them and for protection against misfortune.After,'Namaz, people embrace and greet each other with the words, 'Eid Mubarak' or 'Happy Eid' and head back home for the grand feast.In Delhi,The Shahi
(MCW has members from all over the world reporting moonsighting on a regular basis. These are experienced observers who know the importance of sighting. We, at Moonsighting.com, calculate where the crescent sighting is possible for every lunar month. Visibility of the crescent moon is calculated using the criteria, developed after decades of research by Khalid Shaukat. Development of the criteria included several thousand authentic observations, collected over a period of 150 years in different locations of the world. These visibility calculations jive with the observations every month since 1993. Ref:www.moonsighting.com) 
105 million Muslims make India the second most populous Islamic nation in the world. They form India's largest minority and constitute almost 12% of India's total population.Islam came to India in the 12th century A.D. and opened a dialogue with Indian culture especially under the Mughals. Needless to say, it was a mutually enriching experience. A majority of India's Muslims live in the north but a significant number are found all around the country. Hence their traditions add yet another dimension to the vast cultural landscape of India. 
Eid is a family event and families visit each other houses and greet them with wishes, gifts and compliments. People give special charity to poor and it is called 'Zakat.' First time Eid for the new born baby in the family and new-weds is very special and is celebrated with special gathering is organized by the family members. 
India is a land of divine Deities who give us enormous energies and wealth and wisdom and knowledge of understanding of truth which flash out also our inner untruth and darkness.At the same time we,the Indians worships our deities with usual fun and fervour.It proves that all our Puja Celebrations are accompanied with spiritual attainment and performing of fun and enjoyment.We want to please ourGods and Godess through devotional songs,dance.illuminations and decorations. Nava Ratri is an important part of festival season India as because,Til- Tarpan(Mahalya) which we offer to our ancestors Krishna paksha ends (29th day of September this year2008, was the last day of Amavasya) and Devi paksha starts from the first Lunar day(Pratipada),30th of September 2008.And ,same day nava ratra commences. Nava Ratri indicates the day of worshipping Godess Durga.we believe that Devi Durga is the souce of energy and power who drive out 'asaat (untruth)' and leads us to 'saat'(truth),who win over evils(Demon) and destroy them. Navaratri is divided into sets of three days each to adore different aspects of the supreme goddess. On the first three days, the Mother is invoked as powerful force called 
North Indians
In Gujarat
In Mysore
The Hindu minorities of 
Sharaddh or Shradh is being perform normally to offer prayer (Pinda) with Shraddha(Devotion) to the diseased fore-fathers and other diseased people. Its a kind of holy remembrances. During Ashvin-Amavasya, From no moon day i.e Pratipad(Bengali) or 30thof the other month,Bhadra. this "universal shraddha" day is most important as this day is performed by all the devotees and dutiful lower generations once annually for a fortnight which ends on 12th. Ashvin. Next day ,this year,the 29th October 2008.The people assemble by the bank of rivers along with priests remaining on fast till the ritual ends.There are one peculiar ritual named,' Baitarani Paar".In this case, a cow is given to the priests. To get rid off from the misdeeds committed by the person concern,'Baitarani paar' (Heavenly river). In Shraddh,sesame seeds or black til is essential items and preparation of 'Pinda' for offering to the 'Pretas' of forefathers. Finally,the day comes when the Shraddha rituals are completed after 14 days and on 15th Day 'Til-Tarpan ends.
why we perform Shraddh with the help of the priest?
What are three historically established phases of Shraddha?
The day of Mahalaya is also the day of Remembrance. On this day, people offer Tarpan in memory of their deceased forefathers and the orphan-souls, either human or animals who died uncared for. People of India are assembled on he banks of Rivers, especially,on The bank of the Ganges with many priests seen busy performing 'Tarpan' for devotees in groups. The rituals start from early dawn and last till mid-day. Devotees and worshipers observe a fast since morning and offer food, water, clothes and sweets to their forefathers.
Thus, the auspicious Mahalaya day is religiously observed by performing this important ritual to remember our ancestors by doing the Tarpan in the names of those who were our near and dear ones but who are no longer alive with us today, though we cherish them in our hearts and minds.
The month of September is the beginning of festival season in India.Lord Ganesha pioneers the journey of festivities followed by the festival of The God of architecture,engineering and art & craft Lord Biswakarma.The heavenly deity is being worshipped by the Factories, Construction sites, Industrial houses, artists, craftsmen and weavers etc.According to mythology it is The Lord Biswakarma,who has created the entire universe as well as The Heaven and The earth.
News: (03..9.08):
The Origin of the festival lies in the Holy Hindu scriptures which tell the story of Lord Ganesha. Lord Ganesha (or Ganapati) (the names mean "Lord [isha] or [pati] of Shiva's hosts [gana]") was created by goddess Parvati, consort of Lord Shiva.
As per mythological sayings, Once upon a time, Lord Shiva, the Hindu God of resolution, was away at a war. His wife Pavarti, wanted to bathe and having no-one to guard the door to her house, conceived of the idea of creating a son who could guard her. Parvati created Ganesha out of the sandalwood paste that she used for her bath and breathed life into the figure. She then set him to stand guard at her door and instructed him not to let anyone enter.
In 1893, Lokmanya Tilak, an Indian nationalist, social reformer and freedom fighter reshaped the annual Ganesh festival from private family celebrations into a grand public event. Lokamanya Tilak visualized the cultural importance of this deity and popularised Ganesha Chaturthi as a National Festival, 'to bridge the gap between the Brahmins and the non-Brahmins and find an appropriate context in which to build a new grassroots unity between them" in his nationalistic strivings against the British in Maharashtra. 
Before 2-3 months prior to Ganesh Chaturthi, life-like clay models of Lord Ganesha are made for sold by specially skilled artisans. They are beautifully decorated & depict Lord Ganesh in various poses
The priest, usually clad in red silk dhoti and shawl, then invokes life into the statue amidst the chanting of mantras. This ritual is the 'Pranapratishhtha'. After this the ritual called as 'Shhodashopachara' (16 ways of paying tribute) follows. Coconut, jaggery, 21 modakas, 21 durva (trefoil) blades of grass and red flowers are offered. The statue is anointed with red unguent, typically made of Kumkum & Sandalwood paste . Throughout the ceremony, Vedic hymns from the Rig Veda, the Ganapati Atharva Shirsha Upanishad, and the Ganesha stotra from the Narada Purana are chanted.
On the 11th day, the statue is taken through the streets in a procession accompanied with dancing, singing, and fanfare to be immersed in a river or the sea symbolizing a ritual see-off of the Lord in his journey towards his abode in Kailash while taking away with him the misfortunes of his devotees.After the final offering of coconuts, flowers and camphor is made, people carry the statue to the river to immerse it. The main sweet dish 
Today, the Ganesh Festival is not only a popular festival - it has become a very critical and important economic activity for Maharashtra. Many artists, industries, and businesses survive on this mega-event. Ganesh Festival also provides a stage for budding artists to present their art to the public. The same holds true for Hyderabad too.
Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated in the UK by the migrant Hindu population as well as the large amount of Indians residing there. The Hindu culture and Heritage Society, UK - a Southall based organisation celebrated Ganesh Chaturthi for the first time in London in 2005 at The Vishwa Hindu Temple. The Idol was immersed in the river Thames at Putney Pier.
Mauritius declares holiday
Before going in to the word meaning of 'Ramadan', it is essential to know Ramadan. Ramadan or Ramzan (Popularly known as 'Roza') in India and in Pakistan is a vital religious performing ritual of Islamic sect.
Ramadan or Ramadhan (Arabic: ?????) is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar.
Janmashtami celebrates the birth of one of the most famous Gods of Hindu religion, Bhagwan Krishna, on the eighth day (Ashtami) in the month of Sravana or Savana. Lord Sri Krishna was born on the 'Rohini' nakshatram (star). It is generally celebrated in the month of August-September according to the Christian Calendar. Legend has it that Sri Krishna was born on a dark, stormy and windy night to end the rule and atrocities of his maternal uncle, Kansa.
In the recent Mumbai 26/11/08 terror attack, The Muslims of India especially In Mumbai have become very much upset. The prominent Muslims and the celebrities have sadly announced not to celebrate Eid ul zuha this time.
They will wear black batch tomorrow the 9th of December 2008 to express their condolences for the people who have sacrificed their lives in the violent terror attack.Amongst leading Muslim personalities like Katrina Kaif,Irrfan Khan ,Shabana Azmi,Salim khan,Sajid Khan.Amjad Ali Khan,Javed Akhtar,Zyed Khan,Amna Shariff,Sanjay Khan, Farhan Khan, ,Irfan Pathan and many others will wear black arm band to show sympathy for the victims.-Times Of India).
Eid ul Azah is of the most important festivals for Muslims and is celebrated all over India like other Muslim countries. This Eid is celebrated for three days, i.e. from the 10th to the 12th of month of Dhul Hijjah, and is marked by the sacrifice of animals (goat, sheep, camel, buffalo). This offering precedes the special prayers in the mosques. Delicacies are prepared and served and distributed among families and friends on this occasion.
the Torah. According to Islamic beliefs, Prophet Ibrahim had been put to a test by God when he was asked to sacrifice whatever was the dearest to him and he decided to sacrifice his first born son, Ismaeil, Ishmael of the Torah. On the altar at the mount of Mina near Mecca, as he was on the point of applying the sword to his son's throat, it was revealed to him that it was only a test to determine his measure of submission to Divine commandments and his love for his Creator, and that it was enough. Instead he would offer Allah the sacrifice of only a ram.
It is in honour of this test of Prophet Ibrahim's determination and his faith that Muslims around the world offer the Eid prayers, sacrifice an animal on the occasion to show their faith, allegiance, submission and sincerity to Allah. This is celebrated on the tenth day of Dhul Hijjah - twelfth month of the Muslim lunar calendar - when the Haj celebrations at Mecca are rounded off by the sacrifice of goats, sheep or camels. In India, the animal used most often for sacrifice is the goat - which is why the occasion is spoken of in Urdu as Bakhr or Bakra-Eid.
For millions of Muslim pilgrims who gather at Mecca in Saudi Arabia, it is a real big day. Muslim calendar being a 
lunar one, this Eid also depends on the sighting of the moon. On this day of Eid, the pilgrims reach the grounds of Mina where they sacrifice an animal each. The pilgrims then shave their heads. The purpose is to identify oneself in attire and appearance with millions of devotees who converge to Mecca each year for the pilgrimage.