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  • Date to significance, how Jitiya Fast is celebrated in India

    Date to significance, how Jitiya Fast is celebrated in India

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    • Jivitputrika vrat 2024: Date to significance, how Jitiya fast is celebrated in India

    According to ancient beliefs, mothers observe this fast for the well being and prosperity of their children. It is mostly celebrated in states of Bihar, Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh.

    The Indian culture is replete with a myriad of traditions and cultures. Every state, village, and community have their own set of rituals and festivals to celebrate. One of them is Jivitputrika Vrat or Jitiya Vrat. In many states of the country like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand along with neighbouring country Nepal, jivitputrika is celebrated with several rituals and traditions. It’s an ancient Hindu festival that is celebrated over three days during the seventh to ninth lunar day of Krishna-Paksha in Ashvin month. 

    All About Jitiya Vrat

    According to Hindu dharam, there are a lot of festivals that have its own value and story. In sanatan dharam there are so many beliefs regarding rules of worship that are linked with Hindu mythology. 

    There are 33 koti devas who are worshipped, lord Jimat Vahan is one of them. He is known as God of longevity and lineage. According to traditions, people strongly believe, if married women follow proper ritual and worship the lord from the bottom of their heart for having children, then they will be blessed with kids.

    Jitiya Vrat: Date, Time and Rituals

    According to the Drik Panchang of 2024, Ashtami date of Krishna Paksha of Ashwin month will start on 24 September at 12:38 pm and end at 12:10 pm on 25 September. Vrat pooja will start at 04.43 pm and end at 06.14 pm. 

    This festival is as difficult as chhath puja. On the first day of this fast, women have to take a bath before sunrise and then they observe a nirjal vrat, i.e. a fast without eating or even drinking water. 

    All the preparation for rituals are performed only after taking bath. Women clean the place of worship by coating it with cow dung during Pradosh Kaal. Now the idol of Jimat Vahan made of Kusha is placed in the area where the cow dung is coated. It is worshipped with incense, lamp, rice, roli and flowers etc. and panch fal, which mean 5 different types of fruits. After worshipping the idol with all customs, in the evening, jitiya katha (story) is read by women. 

    And the next morning, the parana (a practice of removing cloth from the pooja dal that is covered on the first day of vrat) is done by the son of the house.

    The festival is based on the story of King Jimat Vahan, who showed kindness and selflessness towards a snake family. Jitiya Vrat is an auspicious festival which is celebrated by all mothers. They observe fast for the well being and prosperity of their children.




  • Date, time, rituals to celebrate this nine-day festival

    Date, time, rituals to celebrate this nine-day festival

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    • Navratri 2024: Date, time, rituals to celebrate this nine-day festival

    Navratri is one of the most awaited Hindu festival. Nine days and nine night of fun, frolic and worship of Maa Durga, here is all you need to know about this auspicious festival.

    Shardiya Navratri is the celebration of nine forms of Maa Durga (Freepik)

    Shardiya Navratri is one of the most vibrant and widely celebrated festivals in India, dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga. New dresses, Navratri special ration, everything is being stocked up to celebrate the homecoming of Goddess Durga. Navratri is one of the most auspicious Hindu festival that is celebrated with great zeal and colours. This nine-night festival holds immense cultural and spiritual significance, and it is marked by various rituals and celebrations across the country.

    Navratri date, significance and ritual

    In 2024, Shardiya Navratri will commence on October 3 and conclude on October 11. The festival spans nine nights, culminating in the celebration of Dussehra (Vijaya Dashami) on October 12. Each day of Navratri is dedicated to a different form of the Goddess, and the timings for rituals often vary based on local customs and traditions.

    According to Drik Panchang, the Ghatasthapana Muhurat starts from 06:15 am and ll end by 07:22 am. Ghatasthapana marks the beginning of Navratri puja.

    The festival is dedicated to the nine forms of Goddess Durga, representing power, prosperity, and protection. Each day is associated with a specific form, known as ‘Navadurga.’ Navratri is a time for spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and devotion. It encourages devotees to cleanse their minds and bodies and seek divine blessings.

    The festival fosters a sense of community and cultural identity. It is celebrated with dance, music, and various local traditions, showcasing the rich diversity of Indian culture.

    Key rituals

    Navratri is celebrated in different forms in different places. In Gujarat, it is all about celebrating the homecoming of Maa Durga with Dandiya. However, different household may have different customs that are adhered too. Few common rituals one may find are:

    • Fasting: Many devotees observe fasts during Navratri. The type of fast varies, with some consuming only fruits and vegetables, while others may abstain from all food.
    • Daily Worship: Each day, devotees perform rituals that include chanting mantras, offering prayers, and performing pujas to the Goddess. Special offerings such as flowers, fruits, and sweets are made.
    • Cultural Programs: Dandiya and Garba dances are integral parts of the festival, especially in Gujarat. These folk dances celebrate the spirit of the festival and encourage community bonding.
    • Durga Puja: In many regions, elaborate idols of Goddess Durga are created and worshipped. The final day often involves immersing the idol in water, symbolising the Goddess’s return to her celestial abode.
    • Navratri Special Foods: During the festival, specific foods are prepared that align with fasting traditions. Common dishes include sabudana (tapioca pearls), kuttu (buckwheat), and various fruits and nuts.

    Shardiya Navratri is not just a religious festival, it is a celebration of life, culture, and spirituality. The nine days provide an opportunity for devotees to deepen their faith and connect with their communities. As you prepare for Navratri in 2024, embrace the rituals and significance of this vibrant festival, and partake in the joy and devotion it brings.




  • Hogmanay 2024 Date, Origins and Significance: Everything To Know About the Scottish New Year’s Eve As You Ring In 2025

    Hogmanay 2024 Date, Origins and Significance: Everything To Know About the Scottish New Year’s Eve As You Ring In 2025

    Hogmanay is an annual Scottish celebration of New Year’s Eve which is celebrated on December 31. Hogmanay is basically the Scots word for the last day of the old year and is synonymous with the celebration of the New Year in the Scottish manner. The annual event is one of Scotland’s most important and vibrant festivals and is marked with great fanfare and enthusiasm. The festival of Hogmanay is rooted in ancient traditions and is a joyful time where people gather and enjoy the music, dancing, and community gatherings that extend well into the early hours of New Year’s Day. In this article, let’s know more about Hogmanay 2024 date, origins and the significance of the annual event in Scotland. New Year’s Eve Traditions For Good Luck in 2025. 

    Hogmanay 2024 Date

    Hogmanay 2024 is celebrated on Tuesday, December 31.

    Hogmanay Origins

    The origins of the festival of Hogmanay are thought to be influenced by Norse and Gaelic customs, as well as the winter solstice and Viking celebrations of Yule. The most important custom is the practice of first-footing, which starts immediately after midnight. This involves being the first person to cross the threshold of a friend or neighbour and often involves the giving of symbolic gifts. The first-foot is supposed to set the luck for the rest of the year. New Year’s Eve 2024 Greetings and Happy Holidays Messages To Ring In 2025. 

    Hogmanay Significance

    Hogmanay festival holds great importance in the Scottish culture. The celebrations and customs of the festival vary throughout Scotland. It usually includes gift-giving and visiting the homes of relatives, friends and neighbours, with particular attention given to the first-foot, the first guest of the new year. Across Scotland, communities celebrate with ceilidh dances, house parties, and shared meals. New Year’s Eve Destinations: 5 Best Places You Must Visit to Welcome New Year 2025. 

    Edinburgh hosts one of the world’s most famous Hogmanay festivals, featuring live concerts, street parties, processions, and a spectacular fireworks show over Edinburgh Castle. Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Festival dates back to 1993 and has evolved to become one of the greatest outdoor celebrations of New Year’s Eve in the world.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 31, 2024 04:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis 2024 Date: Know History and Significance About the Day That Celebrates the Solidarity and Unity of Azerbaijanis

    International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis 2024 Date: Know History and Significance About the Day That Celebrates the Solidarity and Unity of Azerbaijanis

    International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis is celebrated in Azerbaijan on December 31 to mark the worldwide solidarity and unity of Azerbaijanis. The annual event was inspired by the dismantling of border fences between Soviet Azerbaijan and Iran in December 1989 and the collapse of the Berlin Wall in the same year. The holiday was officially established in 1991, after Azerbaijan’s independence. In this article, let’s know more about the International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis 2024 date, history and the significance of the annual event. New Year’s Eve Destinations: 5 Best Places You Must Visit to Welcome New Year 2025. 

    International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis 2024 Date

    International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis 2024 falls on Tuesday, December 31.

    International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis History

    It was in 1989 when the local residents took down the Soviet–Iranian border in then-Nakhichevan ASSR to reunite with Iranian Azerbaijanis. On the same day, the first World Congress of Azerbaijanis took place in Istanbul. International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis was first promoted on December 16, 1991, by then-Chairman of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic Supreme Assembly Heydar Aliyev. Aliyev also raised the issue before the Supreme Soviet of Azerbaijan SSR to declare that date a holiday at the state level. The holiday eventually gained state status in 1992, with Abulfaz Elchibey’s presidential decree. New Year’s Eve Traditions For Good Luck in 2025. 

    International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis Significance

    International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis is an important day that aims to strengthen cultural and national ties among Azerbaijanis living in different countries. The annual event highlights the importance of preserving Azerbaijani heritage, language, and traditions. The day serves as a perfect opportunity for Azerbaijanis around the world to come together to celebrate their shared history through cultural programs, music, dance, and discussions. The day serves as a reminder of the enduring spirit of unity of the global Azerbaijani community.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 31, 2024 05:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • Unlucky Day 2024 Date in US: Why Is December 31 Unlucky? Know Significance of the Last Day of the Year To Welcome 2025

    Unlucky Day 2024 Date in US: Why Is December 31 Unlucky? Know Significance of the Last Day of the Year To Welcome 2025

    Unlucky Day is an annual event in the United States of America (USA) that is celebrated on December 31. The main aim of this day is to forget about the past misfortunes and hope for a great year ahead that will be full of possibilities and opportunities. If anytime during the year, you felt unlucky of any sort, Unlucky Day is the perfect opportunity to move on from the unfortunate events that happened in the past year and entering the new year with a positive approach. In this article, let’s know more about Unlucky Day 2024 date and the significance of the last day of the year before you welcome New Year 2025. 

    Unlucky Day 2024 Date

    Unlucky Day 2024 falls on Tuesday, December 31.

    Why Is December 31 Unlucky?

    The last day of the year, December 31, is often referred to as ‘Unlucky Day’ in some traditions, symbolising the culmination of all the misfortunes and challenges faced over the past year. While it may carry an ominous name, the day is actually an opportunity to reflect on the year’s lows and leave them behind. Friday the 13th Superstition: Why Is Friday 13th Considered Unlucky? Can This Date Bring You Bad Omen? Origins, History and Myths You Must Know. 

    Unlucky Day Significance

    Unlucky Day is an annual event in the US that serves as a moment to acknowledge hardships, learn from them, and prepare for a fresh start as the new year dawns. The last day of the year, i.e. December 31 encourages people to close the chapter on any negativity, making way for new beginnings filled with hope and optimism. The day is a reminder that while bad times may occur, they are not permanent. It is a symbolic turning point, paving the way for a brighter, more promising future as the clock strikes midnight and the new year begins.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 31, 2024 05:15 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • World Peace Meditation Day 2024 Date and Theme: Know Significance of the Day That Promotes Global Harmony and Collective Consciousness Focused on Peace and Meditation

    World Peace Meditation Day 2024 Date and Theme: Know Significance of the Day That Promotes Global Harmony and Collective Consciousness Focused on Peace and Meditation

    Every year, World Peace Meditation Day is observed in several countries around the world on December 31. The annual event aims to promote global harmony and collective consciousness focused on peace and meditation. Peace begins within individuals, while meditation helps reduce stress, anger, and fear, creating a foundation for compassion and understanding. The day highlights the fact that personal inner peace contributes to a peaceful and better world, aligning with the idea that collective mindfulness can lead to significant social change. Encouraging mindfulness practices helps individuals approach all the challenges with clarity and kindness. As we celebrate World Peace Meditation Day 2024, here’s all you need to know about the World Peace Meditation Day 2024 date and the significance of the annual global event. World Meditation Day 2024: From Reducing Stress to Boosting Immunity, 5 Health Benefits of Meditation.

    World Peace Meditation Day 2024 Date

    World Peace Meditation Day 2024 will be observed on Tuesday, December 31.

    World Peace Meditation Day 2024 Theme

    The theme for World Meditation Day 2024 is “Meditation for Global Peace and Harmony”.

    World Peace Meditation Day Significance

    World Peace Meditation Day reminds us that positive global change starts with individual and collective effort. This day encourages a shift toward harmony and cooperation with an aim to make the world a better place to live. Meditation develops focus, empathy, and resilience, skills that are essential for peaceful conflict resolution. The international event holds great importance as it emphasises the power of mindfulness and positive intentions to maintain global harmony and peace. International Day of Peace 2024 Date and Theme: Know the Significance of the Day That Aims To Strengthen World Peace.

    On World Peace Meditation Day every year, several programs are organised around the world like seminars, conferences and workshops to educate people about the importance of meditation and peace and the need for compassion to resolve conflicts.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 31, 2024 07:07 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • New Year’s Eve 2024 Fireworks at Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge Live Streaming: Know Date, Time and Online Telecast Details of The Spectacular NYE Firework Display At the Iconic Landmarks in Australia

    New Year’s Eve 2024 Fireworks at Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge Live Streaming: Know Date, Time and Online Telecast Details of The Spectacular NYE Firework Display At the Iconic Landmarks in Australia

    New Year’s Eve is just a day away, and the first day of New Year 2025 is only two days away. People around the world are preparing for the celebrations to ring in the new year in style. Across various countries and cities, unique traditions and customs mark the occasion. But one iconic and common way to welcome the new year is with spectacular fireworks. Australian cities also host impressive fireworks displays, with the Sydney Opera House fireworks being one of the most iconic. If you cannot make it in person, you can view the live fireworks below. Here’s everything you need to know about the celebrations. New Year’s Eve Ball Drop 2024 Live Streaming From New York’s Times Square: Know Date, Timing and Where To Watch Live Telecast of Times Square Ball Drop Celebrations.

    Sydney Opera House New Year’s Eve Fireworks Date

    The Sydney Opera House New Year’s Eve fireworks will take place on December 31, 2024, and midnight on January 1, 2025.

    Sydney Opera House New Year’s Eve Fireworks Timing

    The fireworks above the Sydney Harbour Bridge will take place at 09:00 PM AEDT, which is 03:30 PM IST and at midnight in Sydney.

    Sydney New Year Fireworks Live Stream

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xGd1KLG8HF0

    The New Year’s Eve celebrations at the Sydney Opera House offer one of the most breathtaking settings to ring in the new year. The celebrations will kick off at 08:30 PM AEDT with vibrant pylon projections and lighting effects illuminating the Sydney Harbour Bridge. At 09:00 PM AEDT, the first round of fireworks will light up the night sky. At 11:45 PM AEDT, there will be a live sing along with Robbie Williams, which will lead to the countdown to 2025. Then, at midnight, a spectacular fireworks show will light up the entire area, marking the official start of the New Year 2025. Happy New Year 2025 Photos, Greetings and WhatsApp Status Video: Wishes, Facebook Messages, SMS and Images To Share on New Year’s Eve and First Day of the Year.

    This year’s New Year’s Eve fireworks above the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge promise to be spectacular, unique, and unforgettable. Be sure to catch the live stream if you cannot attend in person.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 31, 2024 08:30 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).