Rudraprayag (Uttarakhand): Since the sacred doors of Kedarnath Dham, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, opened to devotees on May 10, more than 1.83667 lakh pilgrims from across India and abroad have visited the revered site. The influx of visitors has led to significant traffic congestion on the Yatra route. The district administration and police are actively working to manage the situation. The sheer volume of pilgrims has caused jams at various points along the route, particularly in areas such as Byunggad, Fata, and Jamu. In response to the gridlock, the District Magistrate has directed officials to ensure essential supplies reach stranded pilgrims. Today, District Supply Officer Manoj Kumar Dobhal and Sector Officer Narendra Kumar, along with their team, distributed food packets and water bottles to 2,500 devotees stuck in the jams. Efforts are ongoing to improve traffic flow and ensure the safety and comfort of all pilgrims visiting Kedarnath Dham. The Uttarakhand government, on Thursday, made it mandatory for devotees to register for the pilgrimage. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday inspected Char Dham Yatra arrangements at the Dobata and Palighat routes heading towards Uttarkashi and appealed to the devotees not to come without registration. Addressing the media, CM Dhami noted, "This year, the number of tourists coming for the Char Dham Yatra has significantly increased compared to the past few years. Due to this surge, we had to pause the pilgrimage at certain points. However, the yatra has now resumed, and I have personally met with some devotees who are happily completing their journey without any troubles or hardships." "We are ensuring that every devotee can complete their worship. We appeal to all devotees not to come without registration, as it creates difficulties for both them and the system," he added. According to the State Information Department earlier on Sunday, "The Char Dham Yatra commenced in Uttarakhand on May 10. All three Dhams including Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri have been bustling. On the first day, a record number of more than 29 thousand pilgrims from India and abroad visited Kedarnath Dham." The Char Dham Yatra, steeped in profound spiritual significance in Hinduism, unfolds a journey of devotion and introspection, traversing the sacred realms of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, culminating in spiritual rejuvenation and divine communion.
—ANI

Kedarnath Dham sees a surge in pilgrims, causing traffic jams. Uttarakhand mandates pilgrimage registration. Efforts underway to manage traffic and assist devotees.

More than one lakh pilgrims visit Kedarnath after its opening on May 10 causing major traffic congestion

New Delhi: It was a proud moment for India and its culture as the Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra and Sahrdayaloka-Locana were included in UNESCO's Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register. The 'Ramcharitmanas', 'Panchatantra', and 'Sahrdayaloka-Locana' are such timeless works that have deeply influenced Indian literature and culture, shaping the nation's moral fabric and artistic expressions. These literary works have transcended time and place, leaving an indelible mark on readers and artists both within and outside India. This moment is a confirmation of the country's rich literary heritage and cultural legacy. It signifies a step forward in global cultural preservation efforts, highlighting the importance of recognizing and safeguarding the diverse narratives and artistic expressions that shape our shared humanity. By honouring these literary masterpieces, society not only pays homage to the creative genius of their creators but also ensures that their profound wisdom and timeless teachings continue to inspire and enlighten future generations, as per a statement by the Ministry of Culture." It is noteworthy that 'Sahrdayaloka-Locana', 'Panchatantra', and 'Ramcharitmanas' were authored by Acharya Anandvardhan, Pt Vishnu Sharma, and Goswami Tulsidas, respectively. The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), played a vital role in securing a historic moment during the 10th meeting of the Memory of the World Committee for Asia and the Pacific (MOWCAP). At the gathering in Ulaanbaatar, 38 representatives from member states convened alongside 40 observers and nominees. Advocating for three Indian nominations, IGNCA ensured their placement in 'UNESCO's Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register'. Professor Ramesh Chandra Gaur, Dean (Administration) and Head of the Department, Kala Nidhi Division at IGNCA, successfully presented these three entries from India: The Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra, and Sahrdayaloka-Locana. Prof. Gaur effectively defended the nominations at the UllanBatar convention. This milestone accentuates IGNCA's dedication to preserving and promoting India's cultural heritage, reaffirming its commitment to global cultural preservation and the advancement of India's literary legacy. This marks the first time IGNCA has submitted nominations to the Regional Register since its inception in 2008, as per a statement by the Ministry of Culture. The Memory of the World (MoW) Register lists documentary heritage which has been recommended by the International Advisory Committee, and endorsed by the Executive Board, as corresponding to the selection criteria regarding world significance and outstanding universal value. Inscription on the Register publicly affirms the significance of the documentary heritage, makes it better known and allows for greater access to it, thereby facilitating research, education, entertainment, and preservation over time. —ANI

It was a proud moment for India and its culture as the Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra and Sahrdayaloka-Locana were included in UNESCO's Memory

Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra Become Part Of UNESCO's Memory Of The World Asia-Pacific Regional Register

New Delhi: As the Char Dham Yatra in Devbhoomi Uttarakhand began, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday extended his congratulations to devotees embarking on the pilgrimage. The Char Dham Yatra, a spiritual journey to four holy shrines, attracts thousands of pilgrims seeking blessings and rejuvenation of their faith. "Heartiest congratulations on the commencement of the sacred Char Dham Yatra in Devbhoomi Uttarakhand. The pilgrimage to the four holy shrines, including Baba Kedarnath Dham, is a spiritual and cultural journey for devotees, providing renewed energy to their faith and devotion. I extend my best wishes to all the devotees and pilgrims embarking on this journey. Jai Baba Bholenath!" PM said in post on X.
This year's Char Dham Yatra begins with the reopening of the Kedarnath Dham after a six-month closure. The first puja at the shrine in the early hours of Friday was conducted in the name of Prime Minister Modi, marking the commencement of the pilgrimage season. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, who presided over the puja after the ceremonial opening of the doors of Shri Kedarnath Dham temple, welcomed all devotees and prayed for a safe and fulfilling journey for all embarking on the Char Dham pilgrimage. Speaking to ANI on Friday, CM Dhami said, "The devotees and pilgrims from across the country and beyond wait for this pilgrimage every year. That pious day is upon us today as the portals of Kedarnath Dham have been thrown open. The devotees and pilgrims have arrived here in large numbers and all necessary arrangements have been made for them. I extend my greetings to all of them. Upon its ceremonial opening, the first puja at the Kedarnath Dham was officiated and performed in the name of PM Modi. The darshan (sighting of the deity) began following all the rituals. Since Narendra Modi became PM, work on the redevelopment of Baba Kedar temple has been happening in three phases. We are working to ensure that the project is completed at the earliest."  The portals were opened through rituals and the ceremonial chanting of hymns after a gap of six months, including the peak winter phase. Chants of 'Har Har Mahadev' rang out from among the crowd of devotees, who gathered for the ceremony, as the portals were thrown open to the chanting of shlokas (hymns).
Ahead of the ceremonial opening of one of the country's holiest places of worship, the abode of Lord Shiva was decorated with 40 quintals of petals. One of the most revered temples in the country dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva, Kedarnath draws countless devotees and visitors from across the country and beyond during the six months that it stays open.  The doors of Baba Kedarnath Dham were opened at 7 am for a darshan or sighting of the deity. The doors of Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri were opened on Friday, on the auspicious occasion of Akshay Tritiya, while the doors of Badrinath Dham will be thrown open on May 12. The high-altitude shrines remain shut for six months every year, opening in summer (April or May) and closing at the onset of winter (October or November). The Char Dham Yatra holds profound spiritual significance in Hinduism. This journey typically occurs from April-May to October-November. It is believed that one should complete the Char Dham Yatra in a clockwise direction. Hence, the pilgrimage starts from Yamunotri, proceeds towards Gangotri, onto Kedarnath, and finally ends at Badrinath. The journey can be completed by road or by air (helicopter services are available). Some devotees even do a Do Dham Yatra or a pilgrimage to two shrines, Kedarnath and Badrinath, as per the Uttarakhand tourism official website.  The Char Dham Yatra, or pilgrimage, is a tour of four holy sites: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. In Hindi, 'char' means four and 'dham' refers to religious destinations, as per the Uttarakhand tourism official website.
—ANI

Prime Minister Modi extends warm wishes to devotees for the 2024 Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand. Pilgrims begin their spiritual journey to four sacred shrines.

PM Modi extends warm wishes as Char Dham Yatra begins in Uttarakhand

Sam Ben-Meir*
New York (The Hawk): The Käthe Kollwitz exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art is a reminder of why art exists, and, at its best, what makes it of timeless, universal value. Kollwitz’s work fulfills the condition of truth, which as Theodor Adorno observed, is to let suffering speak. Or in her own words: “I felt that I have no right to withdraw from the responsibility of being an advocate. It is my duty to voice the sufferings of men, the never-ending sufferings heaped mountain-high.” Her work also compels us to reflect on the nature of feminism, especially as it relates to art. Compare for example any piece of Kollwitz to the pretentious, corporate feminism of Judy Chicago who recently enjoyed a full-scale exhibition (sponsored by Dior) at New York’s New Museum, with the unfortunate and adolescent title of “Herstory.” Kollwitz’s Love Scene I (1909-10), sketched with black crayon on white paper, is far more sensuous and erotically charged than the sleek, shiny rings of Chicago’s Pasadena Lifesavers (1970), in which she supposedly sought to capture the “dissolving sensation” of orgasm. There are various approaches to feminism, to be sure. Kollwitz’s feminism is, in a word, the feminism of revolt and is truly universal: it is the feminism that says women have lead uprisings in the past. See for, example, the extraordinarily dramatic and unprecedented Charge, plate 5 from Peasant’s War (1902-03) depicting “Black Anna,” the sixteenth-century revolutionary as she, with arms raised high, leads her followers into the fray of violent struggle. Kollwitz insists that women can continue to lead the revolution against the degradation of humanity that we now call neoliberalism: unregulated capitalism, with its shameless exploitation of children – even here in the United States – with its sweatshops and slums, its obscene concentration of wealth, and its economic inequality which has reached such staggering heights that it literally defies imagination. It is perhaps worth noting that Kollwitz was from the city of Königsberg, as was the philosopher Immanuel Kant, for whom this April 22 marked the three hundredth anniversary of his birth in 1724. Kant was the philosopher of human dignity, par excellence, and I would suggest that the same concern ultimately drives the work of Kollwitz. The exhibition commences with Kollwitz’s Self-Portrait en Face with Right Hand (1900), notable for its full command of itself and its materials, its comingling of confidence and vulnerability. Kollwitz emphasizes her right hand because it is representative of her vocation as an artist – not unlike the way Rembrandt would emphasize his hands in the Self-Portrait (1658) at the Frick Collection. The six etchings of Woman with Dead Child (1903) which precede its seventh and final iteration reveal an artist tirelessly at work upon an utterly devastating theme – one that is evocative of a long tradition hearkening back to the La Pietà (1498-99) of Michelangelo. Kollwitz worked and reworked the piece until it finally came to the point where it achieved its maximum potency. One does not need to read the news of today, with its daily reports of children, infants, toddlers, dying in Gaza and elsewhere to feel the potency and the truth of this image. Look at it, study it ‘long and long,’ as Whitman would say: observe the mother’s hand, her anguished, half hidden face as it presses into the child’s lifeless torso. The image is so powerful, so intensely true, so universal in its timeless significance that one can barely keep one’s eyes upon it without choking. This is what art is for. Yes, art is joy. But if its joy is real then it is a joy born from sorrow, joy in defiance of infinite suffering. Her work confronts head on the burden of the proletariat, it refuses to quit the fight; her work is the very emblem of fidelity, of faithfulness. Fidelity to the struggle for justice, for human dignity, for giving meaning to those who have gone before us. Kollwitz knows that right along beside every revolutionary, every worker marching towards to a new world are the ghosts of revolutions past. The dead live on when we are faithful to the universal meaning that their life embodied. In her 1888 etching, March of the Weavers, each worker is an individual, each is a person, but their individuality is incomprehensible apart from their unity, apart from the universality that binds them. In the foreground, just off center is a woman who bears on her back a sleeping child. Some of the workers bear scythes, and mallets, their faces gaunt with hunger. But the mother, hunched over, is the figure that brings the image together, that lends an irrepressible power: she is bowed, but not bent. She is also the only woman in the group. It is as if Kollwitz is reminding us that the workers are struggling not simply for themselves, to fill their own stomachs, but to save their children from the life of desperation, malnutrition and soul-sapping hardship. The child cannot fight, he is his mother’s burden. But he is also her strength, the reason she must march, he embodies the very necessity of resistance. A Weavers’ Revolt (1893-97) was Kollwitz’s first print series, and it depicts the story of an 1844 textile workers’ uprising, a pivotal moment in the history of Germany’s socialist class struggle. Need we remind ourselves how garment workers continue to be among the most exploited workers from Bangladesh, to Myanmar, Vietnam, Pakistan to right here in the United States, from Southern California to New York City? According to the Center for Economic and Social Rights (CESR) “over 60 percent of New York’s 7,000-plus garment factories operate in sweatshop conditions.” The Los Angeles Daily News reported in March 2023 that workers in Southern California’s garment industry “remain victims of wage theft and illegal pay practices, with some earning as little as $1.58 per hour...” These facts are simply meant to demonstrate that the same exploitation which Kollwitz was dramatizing with unerring focus continue to plague workers right now, today, and not in poor, distant countries, but under our very noses. The stench of greed is so strong and pervasive that we’ve grown accustomed to its contamination of our lifeworld, even as workers’ rights are being trampled on with often devastating consequences. War is a portfolio of seven woodcuts which were published in 1923 and grappled with the terrible four years between 1914-1918 which gave a new, and horrifying face to the madness of modern warfare. Kollwitz is driven in no small part by the loss of her own son during the first World War, but in pieces such as The People where blackness predominates, we see that Kollwitz is confronting far more than her personal loss. A female figure on the right gnashing her teeth is evocative of Renaissance depictions of hell, which is just her point: war is indeed hell, a hell made more terrible by the forms it has assumed under conditions of modernity. One cannot but be reminded as well of Goya’s extended treatment of this theme in his series of 82 prints, The Disasters of War (1810-1820) of which Kollwitz was doubtless aware. And like Goya’s Saturn Devouring His Son (1820-1823), Kollwitz wants to underscore in plates such as the Sacrifice and the Widow II, that war is all-consuming: that it leaves us bereft not only of those who we treasure most in this world but of our humanity itself. Another notable piece is Kollwitz’s first woodcut, In Memoriam Karl Liebknecht (1920) which pays homage to the fallen communist leader who led a failed uprising in Berlin in 1919. Liebknecht was captured and brutally murdered by paramilitary units. His shrouded body lies horizontally across the lower foreground, while mourners gather round in various postures of grief, including a mother and her babe. (The composition resonates with Kollwitz’s virtuosic etching The Downtrodden (1900) in which a nude and emaciated Christ-like figure is similarly placed stretched across the bottom center foreground.) On the chest of the martyred hero a worker has gently placed his powerful hand, reminding us not only that these are workers who live by manual labor, but that they remain strong, determined and faithful to the truth for which their leader gave his life. Kollwitz’s final print portfolio, Death, was completed between during the years in which Naziism came to power and they can certainly be seen as a premonition of the horrors that awaited Europe – but the three crayon lithographs on display are also a testament to a lifelong need to confront the reality of the end, the finality of death; which, in one of the most harrowing pictures of the exhibition is personified as a gaunt figure seen from above as it clutches at several children cowering in terror. One child can be seen from behind darting away left. That will to life stands in some contrast to the Call of Death (1937) in which we see Death coming for Kollwitz herself: only its hand is visible as it reaches for her shoulder, while she, seated seems to be turning to face it: all fear has gone and only resignation remains. This is a woman who has spent her life peering into the darkness, in giving voice to the voiceless, in letting suffering speak to the world. In this mesmerizing work she seems ready at last to leave behind this vale of tears.
*Sam Ben-Meir is a professor of philosophy and world religions at Mercy College in New York City.

The Käthe Kollwitz exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art is a reminder of why art exists

To Let Suffering Speak: Käthe Kollwitz At The Museum Of Modern Art

New Delhi (The Hawk): The Vice President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar today said that Sanskrit is the language of divinity and serves as a sacred bridge in our pursuit of spirituality and the quest to connect with the divine. Addressing the third convocation of National Sanskrit University in Tirupati, he described Sanskrit as a cultural anchor for human civilization in a storm emphasizing that “In today's whirlwind, Sanskrit offers a unique solace: intellectual rigor, spiritual serenity, and a deeper connection to oneself and the world.” Prior to the convocation ceremony, Shri Dhankhar had Darshan at the holy Tirumala temple. Describing his experience, he said, “It is at Tirupati that one comes closest to divinity, spirituality and sublimity. I experienced this as I had Darshan at the temple. I felt blessed and sought bliss for all.” The Vice President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar alongwith Dr Sudesh Dhankhar prayed to Lord Venkateswara and he later tweeted - “Blessed to have Darshan at the revered Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Tirumala today. Nestled amidst the serene environment of Sheshachalam hills, this sacred abode of Lord Sri Venkateswara is a glowing symbol of the rich spiritual heritage of Bharat. Prayed for the happiness and wellbeing of all my fellow citizens.” Stressing the role of institutions like National Sanskrit University in revival and propagation of Indic knowledge systems, VP called for developing innovative curricula and fostering interdisciplinary research, so that the gap between Sanskrit's rich heritage and modern academic needs can be bridged. “Let Sanskrit's sacred language not only connect us to the divine, but also illuminate the path towards a more holistic understanding of the world,” he added. Shri Dhankhar also expressed the need for increased usage of digital technologies in preservation of precious ancient manuscripts. Describing Sanskrit as the treasure house of our cultural heritage, the Vice President called its preservation and promotion as a national priority and duty. He also wanted Sanskrit to be developed according to present day needs and its learning made easy. Noting that any language survives only when it used by the society and literature is composed in it, VP expressed the need to increase Sanskrit usage in our daily lives. Referring to the rich and diverse literary corpus of Sanskrit encompassing not just religious and philosophical texts but also secular works on medicine, drama, music, and science, Shri Dhankhar highlighted that despite this breadth, Sanskrit's integration into mainstream education remains limited, often hindered by a lingering colonialist mindset that dismisses Indian knowledge systems. Stating that studying Sanskrit is not merely an academic pursuit, VP described it as a journey of self-discovery and enlightenment. He gave a clarion call to “Carry Sanskrit's legacy – not just academic knowledge, but a path to transformation” and asked students to become ambassadors for this invaluable heritage, ensuring its treasures reach future generations. Shri N. Gopalaswami, IAS (Retd.), Chancellor of National Sanskrit University, Prof. G.S.R. Krishna Murty, Vice Chancellor, National Sanskrit University, Prof. Shantanu Bhattacharya , Director Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Tirupati, Faculty, Staff, Students and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

The Vice President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar today said that Sanskrit is the language of divinity and serves as a sacred bridge

Sanskrit Is The Language Of Divinity And Serves As A Sacred Bridge In Our Pursuit Of Spirituality: Vice President

Mirzapur (UP): On the occasion of Ram Navami, 1,11,111 kg laddus will be sent to Ram temple in Ayodhya as prasad for offering and distribution on April 17.
Atul Kumar Saxena, trustee of Devraha Hans Baba Trust, said that Devraha Hans Baba will send 1,11,111 kg of laddu prasad to the temple.  Saxena said laddu prasad is also sent to various temples every week, be it Kashi Vishwanath Temple or Tirupati Balaji Temple.
He said that on January 22, the day of Pran Pratistha in Ayodhya, Devraha Hans Baba Ashram had sent 40,000 kg laddu for offering.
—PTI

Experience divine Ram Navami at Ayodhya's Ram Temple with 111,111 kg of laddus from Devraha Hans Baba Trust. A sacred tribute to spiritual tradition.

1,11,111 kg laddus to be sent to Ram temple in Ayodhya on Ram Navami

Chennai: Tamil New Year, the first day of the Tamil month 'Chithirai', was welcomed with traditional fervour across the state on Sunday.
Tamil-speaking people ushered in the 'Krodhi' New Year by visiting places of worship clad in traditional attire.  Special pujas were held across several temples to mark the occasion with devotees queuing up at the famous Vadapalani Murugan Temple, Samayapuram Mariamman Temple near Tiruchirapalli among others in the state.  Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi, AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami extended their greetings on the occasion.  "On the auspicious occasion of Tamil New Year, my warmest greeting and best wishes to all, especially my Tamil brothers and sisters. May the New Year bring good health, happiness, success, and fulfilment to the lives of all," Ravi said in a Raj Bhavan release.
"With new inspirations, energy and enthusiasm let us rededicate ourselves to the unity, integrity and inclusive development of the nation," he said.  In an audio message that was shared on various social media platforms, Palaniswami extended his Tamil New Year wishes to Tamils living across the globe.  Meanwhile, Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also extended his greetings to Tamils on the occasion.  "I am sending my best wishes to Tamils across Canada who are coming together with family and loved ones to celebrate the start of the Tamil New Year. Happy Puthandu.," he said in a social media post.
—PTI

Discover the vibrant celebrations of Tamil New Year across Tamil Nadu, with traditional pujas, festive greetings, and global well-wishes.

Tamil New Year welcomed with zeal and fervour in state

Chandigarh: Devotees across Punjab and Haryana offered prayers at gurdwaras on the occasion of the Baisakhi festival on Saturday.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann greeted people on the occasion of 'Sajna Divas' of the 'Khalsa Panth' and 'Baisakhi'.  Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Saini also greeted people on the occasion of Baisakhi.  Devotees thronged the gurdwaras, including Amritsar’s Sri Harmandir Sahib also known as the Golden Temple, Sri Kesgarh Sahib in Anandpur Sahib, Damdama Sahib in Bathinda and Nada Sahib in Haryana's Panchkula and paid obeisance.
Baisakhi festival marks the foundation day of the ''Khalsa Panth'' (Sikh order) by the tenth Sikh Guru, Gobind Singh.  On this auspicious day in 1699, Guru Gobind Singh created the 'Order of Khalsa' at the holy city of Sri Anandpur Sahib by baptising 'Panj Pyare’ (beloved ones) belonging to different castes.  Baisakhi also marks the onset of harvest season.
—PTI

Join the vibrant Baisakhi celebrations at gurdwaras across Punjab and Haryana. Mark the onset of harvest and the birth of Khalsa Panth.

Devotees in Punjab, Haryana offer prayers in Gurdwaras on Baisakhi

New Delhi: Muslims are celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr with religious fervour and devotion, with large prayer gatherings organised in mosques and open grounds across the country. People, including children, thronged mosques to offer prayers in the morning on Thursday.
In Tamil Nadu, people gathered at the Syed Murthuza school grounds in Tiruchirappalli and the Islamiyah Matriculation Higher Secondary School in Coimbatore to offer 'namaz' on Eid-ul-Fitr. Devotees offered namaz at Idgah in Madhya Pradesh's Bhopal and greeted each other on the occasion.
Former Union Minister and BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi also offered namaz at the Panja Sharif Dargah in Delhi's Kashmere Gate on Eid-ul-Fitr. "I extend good wishes to all the people on the occasion of Eid. I pray this Eid will bring joy, happiness and prosperity in everyone's life. On this auspicious occasion, I wish that our country continues on the path of growth," Naqvi told reporters.  BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain also offered namaz at Parliament Street Mosque in Delhi. "I would like to extend my greetings to all the people on the auspicious occasion of Eid. May everyone's lives be full of happiness and the country move towards growth," Hussain said. Meanwhile, Muslims offered namaz at Mumbai's Mahim Masjid and at Shahjamal Aligarh Eidgah in Uttar Pradesh. Visuals from Delhi's iconic Jama Masjid showed children hugging each other and exchanging Eid greetings after offering namaz.
A large number of people thronged Hyderabad's Mecca Masjid, adjacent to the iconic Charminar, to offer 'namaz'. In the visuals, people were seen exchanging greetings on the auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr.
An air of festivity and celebration was palpable at Delhi's Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah and Nizamuddin Market as Muslims filled the streets in bright attire to offer prayers on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr. The iconic dome of the Nizamuddin Dargah, adorned with bright yellow lights, exuded a festive glow. Large crowds thronged the markets, with revellers spotted purchasing sweets, clothes, and other essentials for the festive occasion while sharing Eid greetings.
Earlier on Wednesday, Muslims in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh celebrated Eid-ul-Fitr. Hundreds of Muslims took part in the mass 'Namaz' recitation ceremony as they prayed in unison at a mosque in Coimbatore. Similarly, a large number of people offered prayers at the mosque in the Ernakulam district of Kerala to celebrate Eid-Ul-Fitr. Mass prayers were also held in Kerala's Thiruvananthapuram on the occasion of Eid. Muslims in Jammu and Kashmir also marked the celebration of the holy festival of Eid-Ul-Fitr with special prayers. Eid ul-Fitr is celebrated on the first day of 'Shawwal', the 10th month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The festival is of great significance due to the moon sighting, which has been part of Islamic culture for a long time. Since the observance of the moon is essential for ending Ramzan month and celebrating Eid, it is celebrated in different parts on different days, usually with a one-day difference. Ending the holy month of Ramzan and starting a new spiritual journey also marks the beginning of a new Islamic year. Eid-ul-Fitr marks the month-long Ramzan fasting and the beginning of 'Shawwal', which is the tenth month per the Islamic calendar.
—ANI

Celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr's spirit of unity and devotion with nationwide prayer gatherings and festive joy, marking a new beginning in the Islamic calendar.

Mass gatherings at mosques for Eid-ul-Fitr 'namaz' mark festive celebrations nationwide

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday greeted people on the start of Navratri and also the traditional Indian new year, which is celebrated in the form of various festivals across India.
In a post in Hindi on X, Modi said, "Best wishes to all my family members of the country on the occasion of Navratri. We wish that this great festival of worship of Shakti brings happiness, prosperity, good fortune and health to everyone. Jai Mata Di!"
<a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1777536737910091782?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1777536737910091782%7Ctwgr%5E87d6804adf1a5e3fe6f1520cabd8fe53d16b147a%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.deccanherald.com%2Findia%2Fpm-modi-greets-people-on-navratri-various-festivals-2970656" target="_self">https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1777536737910091782?</a>
In another post, he said, "Today, on the first day of Navratri, I pay my respects and obeisances at the feet of Maa Shailputri! May Mother Goddess infuse new strength and energy into the lives of all my family members in the country."  Modi also extended his greetings on the occasion of Ugadi, Cheti Chand, Sajibu Cheiraoba, Navreh and Gudi Padwa; various festivals celebrated in different parts of the country to mark the traditional new year.
—PTI

PM Narendra Modi ushers in Navratri and the Indian New Year with warm wishes, celebrating diverse cultural festivities like Ugadi and Gudi Padwa, seeking joy and well-being for all.

PM Modi greets people on Navratri, various festivals

Solo [Indonesia]: The Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) has intensified its Ramadan programmes at the Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Solo, Indonesia. Due to the increasing number of worshippers at the mosque in the last ten days of Ramadan, the ERC has increased the number of Iftar meals it provides daily to 12,000.
The meals are distributed inside the mosque and in the surrounding area. This is an increase from the 10,000 meals that the ERC had been providing daily since the beginning of Ramzan, following the directives of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the ERC.
The ERC initiative reflects solidarity and cooperation, reinforcing the UAE's humanitarian efforts during Ramzan.
—ANI

ERC amplifies Ramadan support at Solo's Sheikh Zayed Mosque, serving 12,000 Iftar meals daily. A gesture of UAE's solidarity, led by Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed.

ERC increases Iftar meals at Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Indonesia to 12,000 daily

Mumbai: Founder and Chairperson of Reliance Foundation Nita Ambani celebrated the anniversary of Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC). Speaking at the event, Nita Ambani said, "It's a year already. And what a year it's been! It feels just like yesterday that we inaugurated NMACC. Memories of that opening night are still so fresh and vivid that I can recall every moment of excitement, uncertainty, and nervousness. I remember standing here backstage and waiting anxiously for the first reactions. The overwhelming response and thunderous applause from all of you, our dear audience, will remain etched in my heart, as a beautiful memory for a lifetime! It was the moment I knew that we all had embarked on something truly special, something important, something noble, something that we hoped would make our nation proud and our culture shine.
Expressing gratitude, she stated in her speech, "I stand before you with a heart full of joy and a deep sense of gratitude. Thank you for an extraordinary year of firsts! Your presence has energized us. Your appreciation has inspired us. And your love for thee arts and for our beloved country has shaped this beautiful journey. Dil se dhanyawad." She added, "I am also immensely grateful to all the artists from India and around the world who have blessed and trusted us with their art. In the last 366 days, we have hosted 670 artists, 700 shows, and over ONE MILLION audiences at NMACC. Our Art House has had several cutting-edge exhibitions that the world has ever seen. Through Swadesh, we have given a global platform to artisans from the remotest villages and smallest towns of our nation. It has been an honour to spotlight India's age-old arts and artisans and give them the respect and recognition that they so richly deserve."

<div style="text-align:left;"><img src="https://thehawk.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/Nita%20Ambani%20with%20Mukesh%20Ambani.webp" alt="Nita Ambani with Mukesh Ambani" style="height: auto;width: auto"/></div>

Nita Amabani further said, "From breakthrough Indian theatricals like Civilization to Nation... to iconic Broadway musicals like The Sound of Music... From hosting maestros at Parampara... to supporting young upcoming artists... and celebrating children with Bachpan... From the finest classical, semi-classical, or folk music from India and around the world... to memorable dramas, rare ensembles, and solo dance performances... It has been an absolute joy for us at NMACC to become a welcoming home to the arts, to thee artists, and to you, our dear audience."
On March 31 2023, the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) was formally inaugurated. The NMACC was established to display the sensory journey of India's rich cultural history through costume, performing and visual arts. It is located within the Jio World Centre in the Bandra-Kurla Complex in Mumbai.
Speaking about the centre Nita Ambani said, "Mukesh and I together had a dream to create a center that would be a center of art, culture and knowledge. There should be a center, here music gets new notes, dance gets new rhythm, art gets a new home and artists get a new sky," Nita stated. She ended her speech by saying, "As we complete one year of NMACC, we look ahead with renewed purpose and enthusiasm. Today, we rededicate ourselves to NMACC's founding vision. Mukesh and I have always believed that India's priceless artistic heritage is our intangible national wealth. In all humility, I can say that no country in the world can match the sheer diversity and depth of India's cultural legacy." The Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre is home to three performing arts spaces: the majestic 2,000-seat Grand Theatre, the technologically advanced 250-seat Studio Theatre, and the dynamic 12S-seat Cube. It also features the Art House, a four-storey dedicated visual arts space built as per global museum standards with the aim of housing a shifting array of exhibits and installations from the finest artistic talent across India and the world.
—ANI

Celebrate NMACC's one-year journey with Nita Ambani. Discover how this cultural hub has transformed India's artistic landscape.

"Mukesh and I together had a dream to create a center": Nita Ambani on NMACC anniversary

Manila (Philippines): A Filipino villager has been nailed to a wooden cross for the 35th time to reenact Jesus Christ’s suffering in a brutal Good Friday tradition he said he would devote to pray for peace in Ukraine, Gaza and the disputed South China Sea.  On Friday, over a hundred people watched on as 10 devotees were nailed to wooden crosses, among them Ruben Enaje, a 63-year-old carpenter and sign painter. The real-life crucifixions have become an annual religious spectacle that draws tourists in three rural communities in Pampanga province, north of Manila.  The gory ritual resumed last year after a three-year pause due to the coronavirus pandemic. It has turned Enaje into a village celebrity for his role as the “Christ” in the Lenten reenactment of the Way of the Cross.
Ahead of the crucifixions, Enaje told The Associated Press by telephone Thursday night that he has considered ending his annual religious penitence due to his age, but said he could not turn down requests from villagers for him to pray for sick relatives and all other kinds of maladies.
The need for prayers has also deepened in an alarming period of wars and conflicts worldwide, he said.
“If these wars worsen and spread, more people, especially the young and old, would be affected. These are innocent people who have totally nothing to do with these wars,” Enaje said.
Despite the distance, the wars in Ukraine and Gaza have helped send prices of oil, gas and food soaring elsewhere, including in the Philippines, making it harder for poor people to stretch their meagre income, he said.  Closer to home, the escalating territorial dispute between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea has also sparked worries because it’s obviously a lopsided conflict, Enaje said. “China has many big ships. Can you imagine what they could do?” he asked.  “This is why I always pray for peace in the world,” he said and added he would also seek relief for people in southern Philippine provinces, which have been hit recently by flooding and earthquakes.
In the 1980s, Enaje survived nearly unscathed when he accidentally fell from a three-story building, prompting him to undergo the crucifixion as thanksgiving for what he considered a miracle. He extended the ritual after loved ones recovered from serious illnesses, one after another, and he landed more carpentry and sign-painting job contracts.  “Because my body is getting weaker, I can’t tell … if there will be a next one or if this is really the final time,” Enaje said.  During the annual crucifixions on a dusty hill in Enaje’s village of San Pedro Cutud in Pampanga and two other nearby communities, he and other religious devotees, wearing thorny crowns of twigs, carried heavy wooden crosses on their backs for more than a kilometer (more than half a mile) under a hot summer sun. Village actors dressed as Roman centurions hammered 4-inch (10-centimeter) stainless steel nails through their palms and feet, then set them aloft on wooden crosses for about 10 minutes as dark clouds rolled in and a large crowd prayed and snapped pictures.
Among the crowd this year was Maciej Kruszewski, a tourist from Poland and a first-time audience member of the crucifixions.  “Here, we would like to just grasp what does it mean, Easter in completely different part of the world,” said Kruszewski.  Other penitents walked barefoot through village streets and beat their bare backs with sharp bamboo sticks and pieces of wood. Some participants in the past opened cuts in the penitents’ backs using broken glass to ensure the ritual was sufficiently bloody.
Many of the mostly impoverished penitents undergo the ritual to atone for their sins, pray for the sick or for a better life, and give thanks for miracles.  The gruesome spectacle reflects the Philippines’ unique brand of Catholicism, which merges church traditions with folk superstitions.  Church leaders in the Philippines, the largest Catholic nation in Asia, have frowned on the crucifixions and self-flagellations. Filipinos can show their faith and religious devotion, they say, without hurting themselves and by doing charity work instead, such as donating blood, but the tradition has lasted for decades.
—AP

In a poignant Good Friday tradition, Ruben Enaje, marked his 35th year of crucifixion reenactment in Pampanga, Philippines, dedicating his act to pray for peace in Ukraine, Gaza.

A Filipino villager is nailed to a cross for the 35th time on Good Friday to pray for world peace

New York [US]: The vibrant colours of Holi splashed across South Street Seaport in New York as more than 7,000 Indians and Americans came together to celebrate the festival of colours. Amidst the festivities, the Consulate General of India in New York added a unique flavour to the celebration by showcasing the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative, highlighting the cultural and culinary diversity of India.
The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as people exchanged traditional greetings, smeared each other with colour, and danced to the beats of Bollywood music and Dhol as well.
Adding an exquisite touch to the celebration, the Consulate General of India in New York treated participants to a delectable showcase of ODOP delights. Among the highlights was the indulgence in the rich flavours of Indian Monsoon Malabar coffee, a quintessential delight for coffee connoisseurs.
Additionally, attendees savoured the unique taste of millet cookies and coffee chocolates, curated to represent the diverse culinary heritage of India.
"More than 7000 Indians and Americans celebrated Holi at South Street Seaport in New York. Also indulged in the rich flavor of Indian Monsoon Malabar coffee as @IndiainNewYork showcased ODOP initiative with millet cookies &amp; coffee chocolates," said the Consulate General of India in New York, in a post on X.
US President Joe Biden too extended Holi wishes on Monday, emphasising that millions of people globally will join together to celebrate the festival, the arrival of Spring, with Gulal and vibrant colours. "Today, millions around the world will join together to celebrate Holi, the arrival of Spring, with Gulal and vibrant colours," said US President Biden in a post on X.
He, along with first lady Jill Biden, wished everyone to celebrate the festival of colours. "Jill and I wish all those observing today's Festival of Colors joy and happiness," he added. The Indian Consulate in New York on Monday extended Holi greetings by illuminating the iconic Times Square in New York City with banners of Holi wishes. "Wishing everyone a colorful and joyous Holi from the heart of New York City. #TimesSquare May the festival of color fill your life with happiness, love and peace,"Indian Consulate in New York posted on X.
Earlier, the Indian Embassy in the US also wished everyone a joyous celebration resplendent with colours and music. In a video shared on X, the Indian Embassy in the US captured the exuberant spirit of Holi celebrations. The video showcased a lively scene at DuPoint Circle, where people immersed themselves in the festivities, dancing joyously while playing with vibrant colours. US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti also extended Holi wishes to the people of India via a video message shared on X. He said, "I want to wish everybody a very happy Holi. We have this amazing gujiyas, which has a little bit of an American twist with some pistachios in here, beautiful rose water. There's no better way than to celebrate Holi across the Indo-Pacific together."
Holi, the festival of colours, is a celebration of liveliness, joy and, of course, familial ties and close bonds. It marks the blooming of spring after a long winter season. On the day of Holi, people come together and smear dry and wet colours on each other.
—ANI

Experience Holi at South Street Seaport, NY: vibrant colors, cultural showcases, and India's rich flavors, with 7,000+ celebrating the festival of joy.

New York: Over 7000 Indians, Americans celebrate Holi with a taste of embassy's ODOP delights

New Delhi: People thronged markets in the national capital on Sunday, ahead of Holi, making last-minute purchases of colours or gulals, trendy water guns, and colourful wigs. Sadar Bazar in the national capital wore a festive look as shops recorded huge footfalls of people buying different kinds of items for the celebration of the festival of colours.
Masks inspired by leaders across the political spectrum, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, CM Yogi Adtiyanath, and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, among others, were trending in markets, bringing a distinct political flavour to the Holi celebrations ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. A shopkeeper in one of the crowded markets in the national capital said the demand for masks and water guns with photos of political leaders was higher as compared to the other items on sale.
"Water guns with images of PM Modi are in great demand. People are paying well for these water guns. However, the overall sales this year are slightly lower than last year. However, the markets are buzzing," he said. Another dealer of Holi items said the demand for colours and gulal was higher than last year.
Speaking to ANI, Md. Rashid, a shopkeeper in the Sadar market, said, "The water guns with images of PM Modi, Rahul Gandhi, and CM Yogi are in demand as the elections are not too far away now. This year, we sold more items as compared to last year."
Another shopkeeper, Saleem Ahmed, who sells colourful wigs, also talked up the sales this year. "Everyone wants to wear a festive look on Holi. These colourful wigs are selling big this year. The overall sales this year, ahead of Holi, is better than the previous year. The pleasant weather is also one of the reasons why pre-Holi shoppers are turning out in such big numbers," he said.  People across the country flocked to nearby markets to purchase sweets and colours. The streets were dotted with make-shift shops selling gulal, colours, toys, and other decor. Not just enthusiastic countrymen but overseas tourists as well could be seen breaking into unbridled celebrations ahead of Holi. Tourists were seen flocking to Pushkar in Rajasthan to not just bask in the local celebratory flavour around 'Pushkar ki Holi' but also mingle with locals. One of the tourists visiting Pushkar expressed his delight saying he was'very excited' to be in India to cerebrate Holi.
"I feel very happy to be here. This is one of the holiest sites in the world. I am getting good energy and celebratory vibes from the locals. It just feels very nice. I am excited to experience the ambience around the festival here," he told ANI. Holi, a festival celebrated with as much fervour in the country as it is overseas, will be marked on March 25, Monday, this year. The festival is preceded by a ritual of lighting bonfires called Holika Dahan, signifying the burning of the demon Holika. Some of the country's oldest and most popular pilgrimage sites, such as Vrindavan, Mathura, and Barsana, draw revellers on this day, smearing themselves with the colours of Holi.
—ANI

Celebrate Holi with trendy water guns, colourful wigs, and political leader masks. Markets are alive with the festive spirit and pre-Holi sales soar.

Shoppers throng Delhi markets ahead of Holi, tourists exude celebratory vibes

Millions of Iranians will travel to be with their families for Nowruz, the Persian New Year, on March 20 but economic troubles in the sanctions-hit country are weighing on the festivities. Iranians will celebrate the start of the year 1403 at exactly 26 seconds past 6:36 a.m. (0406 GMT) on March 20, matching the astronomical time of the spring equinox.
Globally, some 300 million people will wish each other Nowruz mobarak (Happy New Year) including in Iran, Afghanistan, Kazakhstan and among Kurds in Turkey, Iraq, Syria and elsewhere. “It’s the most important holiday of the year, the one where we forget our problems to get together with our loved ones and dream of a better year,” said Marjan, a young woman from Tehran whodeclined to give her full name.
Celebrated for 3,000 years, Nowruz marks a two-week break when Iranians travel within the country or, for the more fortunate, abroad. Yet many have plans for diminished feasts this year. “Food products are far too expensive because of inflation,” Afshar, a 44-year-old accountant, said at the Tajrish bazaar in northern Tehran. Annual inflation officially stands at 44%, according to local media, after hitting 46% last year.
“I bought meat at 7,00,000 toman (around $12) per kilo, but I only earn 9.8 million ($160) per month after a 30-year career,” said a 68-year-old resident of Tehran who did not wish to be named. Last Nowruz, Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei acknowledged that Iranians felt “bitterness” due to “high prices, particularly of food and necessities”. He then tasked the government with measures to implement “inflation control”. Authorities in Iran have blamed Western economic sanctions for the surge in prices.
—AFP

Iranians face economic hardships as they celebrate Nowruz, the Persian New Year. Inflation and sanctions weigh on festivities, yet hope remains.

Amid an economic crisis, Iran prepares for Nowruz festival

Hold on to your water guns and get ready to throw some colours because it's time to talk about the science behind HOLI! For those who don't know, Holi is the Indian festival of colours where people get together to smear each other with all sorts of pigments and celebrate the victory of good over evil. But have you ever wondered why Holi makes us feel so darn good? Is it the colours? The music? The dance moves? Or maybe just the fact that we get to pelt our friends with water balloons without getting in trouble? In this blog, we'll be taking a critical and informative look at how the science behind Holi affects our mental health and why it's essential to use natural colours. So, put on your goggles, cover your hair with a scarf, and get ready to find out why Holi is more than just a colourful bliss.  How HOLI Affect our Mood &amp; Mental Health  Holi is a festival celebrated with a lot of enthusiasm and zeal. It is a time when people forget all their differences and come together to celebrate the victory of good over evil. This festival not only brings people closer but also has a significant impact on our mood and mental health. Let's take a look at how Holi affects our minds and why it is good for our mental well-being.  1. Colours: The colours used during Holi have a profound impact on our mood. Colours are known to influence our emotions, and the bright &amp; vibrant colours used during Holi can evoke positive emotions such as happiness, excitement, and enthusiasm. They also have a therapeutic effect (stimulating the release of dopamine) on our minds and help us feel rejuvenated and refreshed.  2. Music: Music is an essential part of Holi celebrations. The beats and rhythm of the music can instantly lift our mood, making us feel happy and energetic. It also has a calming effect on our minds and can help us relax &amp; de-stress.  3. Social connections: Holi is a time when people come together to celebrate and have fun. The social connections we make during this festival can positively impact our mental health. It helps us build relationships and strengthen bonds with our friends and family, which can give us a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of loneliness as well as isolation.  4. Playfulness: Holi is a festival that encourages playfulness and childlike behaviour. Playing with water &amp; colours and indulging in fun activities can help us let go of our inhibitions and enjoy the moment. This playful attitude can affect our mental health positively and help us feel more carefree and relaxed.   In addition to these scientific explanations, Holi also has a cultural significance. It celebrates the triumph of goodness, promoting unity and harmony among people of different backgrounds and beliefs. This cultural aspect of Holi can have a positive impact on our mental well-being by promoting a sense of community and connection.   Benefits of Using Natural Colour   Let me paint you a picture, my friend. Imagine playing Holi with artificial colours that not only leave you with stains but also cause skin irritations and rashes. Now, imagine playing Holi with natural colours that not only give you vibrant hues but also have numerous benefits for your skin and hair. That sounds like a no-brainer, right? Using natural colours in Holi is not just an eco-friendly choice, it's also a beneficial one. Natural colours are made from organic ingredients like flowers, herbs, and fruits, which have a soothing and nourishing effect on our skin and hair. They also have therapeutic properties that can help calm and relax our minds. So, not only will you have a blast playing Holi, but you'll also come out of it looking and feeling rejuvenated. Plus, you'll be doing your bit for the environment by opting for natural colours. So, let's embrace the natural side of Holi and colour the town red, green, yellow, and pink with natural colours!  How to Make Plant-Based Natural Colours  Making plant-based natural colours for Holi is a fun and creative process, and it's super easy to do! Here's a quick guide on how to make your own natural colours:  Green colour: Grind dried Gulmohur leaves, spinach leaves, or pine needles into a fine powder.  Yellow colour: Mix turmeric powder or gram flour with water to form a paste. You can also use dried marigold or sunflower petals, which can be powdered and mixed with water.  Red colour: Pomegranate, the bark of crab apple trees, and Red Sandalwood Powder can be used to extract out rich red colour. You can also use hibiscus flowers which can be ground into a fine powder and mixed with water.  Saffron colour: Soak the flowers of the Tesu tree in water overnight. The resulting water will have a beautiful saffron colour.  Blue colour: Soak indigo leaves in water overnight. Alternatively, you can use blue hibiscus flowers or jacaranda flowers, which can be ground into a fine powder and mixed with water.  Purple colour: Boil beetroot in water until the colour is extracted. You can also use purple grapes or blueberries, which can be mashed and mixed with water.  Brown colour: Mix dried tea leaves with water to form a paste. You can also use Katha, which is a natural plant extract that gives a brown colour. Different Holi colours in different bowls with spoons   Don't let toxic synthetic colours ruin your Holi fun! Herbal colours are scarce but worth the extra cost to protect your skin, hair, and health. Cheap synthetic colours contain lead oxide, diesel, and other harmful chemicals that cause rashes, allergies, and even acute skin diseases. Moreover, everyone else uses them too, so you're not avoiding the risks. So, go green and get creative with your natural plant-based colours this Holi, and have a blast!  Pieces of Advice to Keep in Mind!  Alright, folks, listen up! It's that time of the year again when we go crazy with colours and drench each other with water. That's right, it's Holi time! But before you dive headfirst into the festivities, let's go over some tips to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable Holi experience.  First things first, put on some old clothes you don't mind getting ruined. Trust me, that Gucci shirt you've been eyeing is not Holi-proof.  Next up, slather on some coconut oil or petroleum jelly all over your skin. It will make it harder for the colours to stick to your skin and will also help prevent skin irritation.  Don't forget to wear some old shoes or flip-flops because the last thing you want is to ruin your new Nikes in a puddle of coloured water.  Lastly, if you have long hair, tie it up in a bun or braid it to avoid a tangled mess. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, you can always go bald like Britney Spears  Bottom line   In conclusion, Holi is more than just a festival of colours; it is a celebration of life and a time to connect with our inner child. The colours, music, social connections, and playfulness of this festival can have a significant impact on our mood and mental health. So, go ahead and embrace the festive spirit of Holi to experience the joy and positivity it brings.  —Vijay GarG

Celebrate Holi's vibrant colors and discover its positive effects on mental health. Learn about the benefits of natural colours and how this festival of unity can uplift your spirit.

How Holi Affects Our Mood and Mental Health,The Science Behind Holi Colors

Bolaji Owoseni For The Conversation
Cambridge: Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State, is a Nigerian city with a long and rich history. However, much of its distant past is not well known. Archaeology is now uncovering more of this history and the relationships of Ilorin to other ancient parts of the Yoruba world.  Situated in north-central Nigeria and predominantly Yoruba-speaking, Ilorin gained prominence in the late 1700s. It was a significant northern province of the Oyo empire, which was active between the 1500s and early 1800s.  Thanks to its strategic location between savannah and forest regions of present-day Nigeria and its connection to the Oyo empire, Ilorin evolved into a centre of inter-regional trade networks, craft production and cultural exchanges by the 1800s. The city was renowned for trade in horses, agricultural produce, and crafts such as lantana stone beads, textiles and pottery within the Yoruba-Edo worlds and across west Africa. Ilorin also served as a trading hub for enslaved people.  In addition, in the 1800s, Ilorin became integrated into the Islamic emirate system under the Sokoto caliphate. This integration resulted in significant socio-political changes and contributed to the expansion of the city.  While oral traditions and written sources have preserved much of Ilorin’s history, the longer-term occupation of the city before the 1800s remained largely unknown until recent archaeological research. This contrasts with the situation in Ilorin’s surrounding communities like Igbominaland, Ede and Osogbo, where archaeological studies have provided insights into their settlement histories.
My doctoral research on Ilorin archaeology sheds new light on this period. It uncovers over 1,000 years of human occupation in the city before the 1800s. This research started the process of unravelling the city’s previously unknown settlement history and its connections to wider Yoruba worlds. The material evidence from this research takes various forms, including material technology, settlement patterns, architecture, rituals and food.  My research investigated 10 units of various sizes, seven of which were excavated. It documented a diverse suite of material culture, including abundant potsherds of various types, potsherd pavements, rock-based or stone tools, animal remains, shell and metal. I compared these findings from Ilorin with those from the wider Yorubaland, focusing particularly on the major centres of Ile-Ife and Oyo.  Ile-Ife occupies a central place in Yoruba history and civilisation. Claimed to be the harbinger of Yoruba civilisation, it is associated with important material evidence, including terracotta, early glass making and potsherd pavements. Oyo served as the capital of the Oyo empire, which collapsed in the early 1800s.  Potsherds and potsherd pavements  My research on early Ilorin centred mainly on potsherds. In archaeology, potsherds tell us a lot about the characteristics of past societies and how they interacted with their environment.  Potsherd pavements stand out as an ancient architectural feature linked to the social complexities of west Africa. Potsherds are broken pieces of ceramic materials and potsherd pavements are paved ways, floors or courtyards made of potsherds. They are sometimes combined with stones, pebbles or cobbles. They can be laid flat or on edge in a pattern. Potsherds and potsherd pavements provide insights into past technology, innovation, economy, social identity, architecture and rituals. They can also expand understanding of social interactions on a regional scale.  Ilorin potsherd pavements present an ideal case study of regional interactions.  The Oyo empire’s capital was about 60km north-west of Ilorin. Despite their connections, the two societies had different kinds of potsherd pavements. The Oyo kingdom featured flat-laid potsherd pavements while Ilorin’s were edge-lain in herringbone patterns.  This could strongly indicate a disconnection between the two centres during prehistoric times. The varied patterns observed in potsherd pavements suggest variations in technological choices among the artisans responsible for crafting these architectural structures. Patterns may also be determined by the culture responsible for the innovation. Ilorin’s edge-laid patterns are similar to those found widely in the Ile-Ife area, about 235km to the south-west. Evidence in Ilorin of buried pot remains, potentially used for ritual purposes, is also suggestive of finds at Ile-Ife and some of its surrounding towns.  My findings  My research used archaeology as its prime source of data to investigate the development of the Ilorin cultural landscape, focusing on Okesuna, one of the city’s early quarters. I chose Okesuna because of the concentration of archaeological remains there, particularly potsherds and potsherd pavements.  The excavations also yielded rock-based or stone tools, animal remains, shell and metal objects. A combination of radiocarbon dates and potsherds analysis from Ilorin produced chronological information spanning from the mid-sixth to the pre-16th centuries AD. This covered around 1,000 years of human occupation in the area before the west Africa Atlantic contact.  The research in Ilorin is the first to document a first millennium AD pottery assemblage outside significant known centralised polities of Yorubaland such as Old Oyo, Ile-Ife and Benin. It is the first record of people living in the area such a long time ago.  The dates also suggest that the early Ilorin area was more developed than previously believed. It must have served as a significant socio-political unit at the same time as or even earlier than some important Yorùbáland centres, including Ile-Ife and Old Oyo.  Early Ilorin may have been a centre of innovation which facilitated free-flowing interactions across regional borders, uninhibited by pressure from major centres.  Ancient politics  My research demonstrates how archaeological evidence continually reshapes our understanding of the ancient politics in areas situated on the borders of major centres.  It shows that the settlement patterns of modern societies are an inadequate yardstick for defining pre-modern societies. This highlights the fluid and transient nature of culture. It also underscores the complexity and significance of these areas as contact zones of social interactions and cultural exchanges.  (The author is a Research Fellow in Black Heritage, University of Cambridge.)
—PTI

Explore the untold history of Ilorin, Nigeria, as recent archaeological findings reveal over a millennium of human settlement, trade, and cultural exchanges in this historic Yoruba city.

Nigeria’s ancient Ilorin city, archaeologist uncovers over 1,000 years of history

Yokohama [Japan]: In a joyous celebration that brought together the rich cultural heritage of China and the warmth of Japanese hospitality, Yokohama's Chinatown recently hosted a spectacular Lunar New Year ceremony. The event, steeped in tradition, took place in the heart of Yokohama, underscoring the city's unique blend of history and diversity.
Yokohama was historically closed to outsiders until its harbour opened in 1859. It witnessed the establishment of Chinatown six years later. In a remarkable collaboration between the Japanese and Chinese communities, the vibrant district formally declared its existence. The Lunar New Year ceremony, which began in China in 1865, still continues to be observed in a traditional manner in Yokohama. This year's event showcases the dragon dance, in honour of the dragon zodiac sign, which is considered sacred in both Chinese and Japanese cultures. Nobumasa Takahashi, the chairman of the Yokohama Chinatown Development Association, expressed his enthusiasm for this year's festivities.
"This year, a dragon dance is performed. This year's zodiac sign is the Dragon, and I hope you will see this dragon dance more and more. Also, Chinese dress, called 'chi-pao,' is worn by women in this parade. I hope many people will feel Chinese culture and tradition," he stated. The event showcased a symbol of understanding and coexistence as both Japanese and Chinese languages resonated through the festivities. Yokohama, with its rich history and cultural tapestry, stood as the perfect backdrop for this historical feat, leaving a lasting impression on both locals and visitors alike. The Lunar New Year event in Yokohama serves as a bridge between old-time Japanese residents and the mobilised Chinese community, fostering a spirit of unity and shared celebration. Visitors to this celebration were captivated by the harmonization of people from different nationalities and praised the colourful dragon dance and vibrant parade. "I felt very happy watching everyone go to the parade. It's very colourful," remarked one visitor, while another expressed appreciation for Yokohama's historical charm. "Yokohama has old buildings, so I enjoy it a lot, just by taking a walk here, I learn history, as it's a very nice city," they shared. The Yokohama Chinatown Development Association emphasized that Chinatown is one of the city's distinctive features, contributing to Yokohama's allure. "I think Chinatown is one of Yokohama's killer contents. This event is not only the Chinese Lunar New Year but also the Yokohama Lunar New Year. So people can enjoy many properties not only in Chinatown but also in the old town area and Minato Mirai's new town area," added Nobumasa Takahashi.
—ANI

Experience the splendor of the Lunar New Year in Yokohama Chinatown, featuring traditional dragon dances and a cultural blend of Chinese and Japanese heritage.

Japan: Yokohama's Chinatown celebrates Lunar New Year with vibrant ceremony

Varanasi: In a display of devotion and religious fervour, hundreds of devotees gathered at the iconic Kashi Vishwanath temple in Varanasi to celebrate Maha Shivaratri on Friday. The occasion drew worshippers from far and wide, forming long queues as they eagerly sought the blessings of Lord Shiva.
To ensure the smooth flow of the crowd, law enforcement agencies swiftly swung into action to manage the crowd outside the temple.
In Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj, a significant number of devotees were seen taking a dip in the holy waters of Sangham ghat on the occasion.

<div style="text-align:left;"><img src="https://thehawk.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/Sangham%20ghat%20Prayagraj.webp" alt="Sangam Ghat Prayagraj" style="height: auto;width: auto"/></div>

Meanwhile, in Andhra Pradesh's Nandhyala district, the renowned Srisailam Temple became a hub of religious activity. Pilgrims immersed themselves in various rituals and prayers, creating an atmosphere charged with religious zeal. The temple authorities had prepared for the influx of worshippers, ensuring a peaceful celebration.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.thehawk.in/posts/maha-shivaratri-celebrations-begin-at-mahakaleshwar-temple-in-ujjain" target="_self">https://www.thehawk.in/posts/maha-shivaratri-celebrations-begin-at-mahakaleshwar-temple-in-ujjain</a>&nbsp;
Devotees expressed their devotion through traditional chants, hymns, and the illuminating glow of lamps, creating a spiritual ambiance on the occasion of Maha Shivaratri. The Mahakaleshwar temple in Ujjain was also lit up on the occasion. Hundreds of people thronged the temple to offer their prayers to Lord Shiva as the priests performed a grand 'Bhasma Aarti' of Mahakal. 
In addition, numerous celebrated artists nationwide also expressed their devotion to Lord Shiva through their artistic creations in celebration of Maha Shivaratri. Sand artist Ajay Gupta in Prayagraj (UP) made a replica of the Kedarnath temple using biscuits.
Gupta, during his interaction with the media, said, "We have made a replica of Kedarnath temple using biscuits. Last year we made a Shivling with 1,111 biscuits so after that we had this thought that a temple should also be made." Prime Minister Narendra Modi also greeted fellow Indians on the occasion of Mahashivaratri. "Best wishes to all my family members of the country on Mahashivratri. I wish that this great festival brings new energy in everyone's life and also gives new strength to the resolutions of the country in Amritkaal. Jai Bhole Nath!," PM Modi posted on X.
—ANI

Celebrate Maha Shivaratri's spirit with hundreds of devotees at temples nationwide, engaging in rituals, prayers, and artistic expressions of devotion to Lord Shiva.

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More than one lakh pilgrims visit Kedarnath after its opening on May 10 causing major traffic congestion

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