Happy New Year 2025

Tag: Related

  • Valentine’s Day 2025: How Is the Day of Romance Related to Roman Festival Lupercalia? V-Day Origins & Traditions Explained

    Valentine’s Day 2025: How Is the Day of Romance Related to Roman Festival Lupercalia? V-Day Origins & Traditions Explained

    Have you ever considered that Valentine’s Day may have roots in the spirited Roman festival of Lupercalia? This vibrant celebration, held every year on February 15, welcomed the arrival of spring and honored fertility and the renewal of life. It included various rituals, such as the sacrifice of goats and the use of their hides as whips, playfully aimed at encouraging fertility among women. Burgundy Broken Heart Nail Trend: Chrome Nail Look for Valentine’s Day 2025 Mood Board. 

    During this joyous festival, young men participated in a tradition of drawing the names of women, creating temporary pairings that hinted at the romantic connections we cherish today. As time went on and Christianity spread, these ancient customs began to intertwine with Christian observances, ultimately giving rise to St. Valentine’s feast day. What started as a wild and lively event evolved into a day devoted to love and affection, shaping the Valentine’s Day we celebrate now.

    Imagine that time, filled with vibrant festivities and rituals that brought people together! Fast forward to today, and we have transformed these age-old practices into a beautiful tribute to romance. Thanks to thoughtful campaigns from brands like ‘Archies,’ the narrative shifted towards modern love stories. Compassionate efforts from Planet and Animal Protective Organizations have also emerged, highlighting the importance of celebrating life in all its forms. Is the Concept of ‘Internet-Induced Brain Rot’ a Myth?

    And now, here we are, immersed once again in the enchanting embrace of Valentine’s Week 2025!

    Valentine’s Week officially switched on, on the 7th of February with Rose Day, followed by Propose Day, Chocolate Day on the 9th, Teddy Day on the 10th, Promise Day on the 11th, Hug Day on the 12th, and culminating with Kiss Day on the 13th, leading into the love celebration of Valentine’s Day on the 14th. Gen-Z has pushed for a more compassionate approach to these celebrations, emphasizing love not only for one another but also for our planet and all living beings a beautiful reminder of the interconnectedness we share. Recognizing the challenges of global warming and animal welfare today adds a profound layer to how we express love and care.

    This is your moment to embrace the magic of love! After all, what truly matters in life is sharing our journeys with those we cherish. Celebrating love in all its forms is one of the most essential parts of our human experience. So, if you believe in love, make this Valentine’s Week unforgettable by showering your loved ones with thoughtful surprises and heartfelt expressions. Each day offers a new opportunity to celebrate the love that fills our hearts and connects us all. Let the festivities be a reflection of the deep emotions you hold within, as they remind us of our shared humanity.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 11, 2025 09:48 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • Costco awarded execs hundreds of thousands in DEI related bonuses

    Costco awarded execs hundreds of thousands in DEI related bonuses

    ‘The Big Money Show’ explores companies turning against DEI policies while Costco bucks the trend.

    Costco doled out hundreds of thousands in bonuses to their CEO and top execs based on diversity, equity and inclusion and environmental metrics between the years of 2021-2024, a Fox News Digital analysis has found.

    The grocery wholesaler giant paid CEO Ron Vachris a $93,333 bonus in 2024 based on achieving social and environmental objectives, which included “metrics concerning diversity, equity and inclusion, resource consumption, and other environmental-related areas,” according to their 2024 proxy statement. Other executives were offered $24,000 in bonuses related to achieving diversity, equity and inclusion metrics.

    In 2023, then-CEO Craig Jelinek was awarded a $100,000 bonus for meeting environmental and DEI metrics, according to that year’s proxy statement. Other execs were awarded up to a $24,000 bonus for hitting DEI benchmarks. DEI-linked bonuses have been awarded every year since 2020, Costco proxy statements revealed.

    WASHINGTON AG STANDS BY COSTCO, BLASTS REPUBLICAN ATTORNEYS GENERAL THREATENING DEI CRACKDOWN

    Costco has doled out bonuses on the basis of hitting DEI metrics, their proxy statements reveal. 

    The wholesale giant has been tight-lipped about their DEI policies, and Fox News Digital was unable to determine which specific metrics the bonuses were tied to. The company didn’t respond to a request for comment. However, Costco’s website sheds some light on the company’s DEI initiatives.

    “The role of the company’s Chief Diversity Officer (CDO) is to support the advancement of inclusion at Costco, the growth of a diverse employee base, our relationships in the communities where we do business and an increase in our base of diverse suppliers,” according to the website.

    FORMER COSTCO EXECUTIVE DEFENDS ITS DEI POLICIES, SAYS CRITICS DON’T UNDERSTAND THE COMPANY’S CULTURE

    Al Sharpton

    Al Sharpton staged a “buy in” to support Costco upholding DEI metrics.  ((Photo by Michael Nigro/Pacific Press/LightRocket via Getty Images) / Getty Images)

    Costco has managers and employees take a course in “inclusive conversations,” which the website lists as “10 modules of conversations to encourage leaders and employees to engage in inclusive conversations.” The program was launched in 2020, and as of 2024 new content was added to facilitate connections “across differences, manage assumptions and make people feel heard,” per the website. 

    The grocery chain also lists the demographics of its “Supervisor in Training” program, which is designed to help with the professional development of employees. According to their website, 57.3% of the 7,000 employees who participated in the training program identified as “People of Color.” 

    Waves of backlash and support have crashed on the wholesaler ever since the board overwhelmingly voted to reject a proposal challenging their DEI initiatives in January. Rev. Al Sharpton staged a “buy in” at the Costco location in Harlem to reward the company for sticking with DEI, but 19 states’ attorneys general have ordered the grocer to drop the controversial policies in order to conform with a Trump administration executive order.

    costco customers refilling soda at costco

    A former Costco exec said DEI has always been the company’s culture.  (Callaghan O’Hare/Bloomberg / Getty Images)

    READ MORE FROM FOX BUSINESS

    Former Costco executive Roger Campbell pushed back on critics of the company, saying that DEI has always been part of their culture. 

    “The term DEI didn’t even exist to us, it was the way we ran our business… it’s who we are,” Campbell said. 

  • Narmada Jayanti 2025 Date on Shukla Paksha Saptami Tithi: Know the Significance, Shubh Muhurat Timings, Story and Celebrations Related to the Day That Worship River Narmada

    Narmada Jayanti 2025 Date on Shukla Paksha Saptami Tithi: Know the Significance, Shubh Muhurat Timings, Story and Celebrations Related to the Day That Worship River Narmada

    Narmada Jayanti 2025 will be marked on February 4. This annual commemoration is marked on the Saptami tithi in the bright phase of the Hindu month of Magha month. The observance is focused on offering prayers to the Narmada River, and people often make it a point to take a holy dip here on this day. Amarkantak in Madhya Pradesh, the origin of river Narmada, is a popular place to observe Narmada Jayanti. As we prepare to celebrate Narmada Jayanti 2025, here is everything you need to know about this festival, how to celebrate it and why it is important. Narmada Jayanti 2025 Wishes and Images: Share Messages in Hindi, Greetings, Quotes and HD Wallpapers To Celebrate the Birth Anniversary of River Narmada.

    When is Narmada Jayanti?

    Narmada Jayanti is celebrated on the Shukla Paksha Saotami tithi in the Hindu month of Magha. The celebration of Narmada Jayanti 2025 will be marked on February 4. The Saptami Tithi for Narmada Jayanti 2025 begins at 06:07 on Feb 04, 2025, and will go on till 04:00 on Feb 05, 2025.

     Narmada Jayanti 2025 Date and Muhurat

    Narmada Jayanti on Tuesday, February 4, 2025

    Saptami Tithi Begins – 04:37 on Feb 04, 2025

    Saptami Tithi Ends – 02:30 on Feb 05, 2025

    Significance of Narmada Jayanti

    Narmada Jayanti celebration is focused on celebrating the origin of the Narmada River and is often referred to as the birth anniversary of the river. The celebration of Narmada Jayanti will be marked across the country, with areas where the river passes allowing special events where devotees take a holy bath. On this day, devotees worship the river Narmada, which brings peace and prosperity to their lives. The observance is also celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm at temples dedicated to Goddess Narmada across the country.

    Every year, the celebration of Narmada Jayanti is considered to be an extremely auspicious event that is supposed to fill one’s life with prosperity and good luck. The observance of Narmada Jayanti usually falls on the same day as Ratha Saptami – which is often referred to as the Sun God’s birthday.

    (Disclaimer: The information provided here is based on beliefs and legends only. Before applying any information in real life, consult the concerned expert.)

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 04, 2025 10:04 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • Ratha Saptami 2025 Date and Time: When Is Snan Muhurat on Ratha Saptami? Know History, Rituals, Significance and Celebrations Related to Surya Jayanti or Magha Saptami

    Ratha Saptami 2025 Date and Time: When Is Snan Muhurat on Ratha Saptami? Know History, Rituals, Significance and Celebrations Related to Surya Jayanti or Magha Saptami

    Ratha Saptami is an annual Hindu festival that is dedicated to Lord Surya and is marked on the Shukla Paksha Saptami in the month of Magha. Ratha Saptami 2025 will be celebrated on February 4. The celebration is an important observance for devotees of Lord Surya. Ratha Saptami is a highly auspicious day and it is considered as auspicious as Surya Grahan for Dan-Punya activities. As we celebrate Ratha Saptami 2025, here is everything you need to know about this day, how to celebrate Ratha Saptami and its significance.

    When is Ratha Saptami 2025?

    Ratha Saptami 2025 will be marked on February 4. The annual observance is marked on the Saptami tithi in the bright phase of Magha month. The Saptami tithi for Ratha Saptami 2025 will begin at 06:07 on Feb 04, 2025, and will go on till 04:00 on Feb 05, 2025. It is considered to be extremely auspicious to have a holy dip in the river on the occasion of Ratha Saptami. The Snan Muhurat on Ratha Saptami 2025 will be from 05:05 to 06:45 on February 4. Ratha Saptami 2025: Tirumala Radiates With Light, Floral Decor as City Gears Up for Grand ‘Ratha Saptami’ Celebrations at Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Andhra Pradesh’s Tirupati.

    Ratha Saptami 2025 Date and Muhurat

    Ratha Saptami on Tuesday, February 4, 2025

    Snan Muhurat on Ratha Saptami – 05:31 to 07:12

    Duration – 01 Hour 41 Mins

    Civil Dawn on Ratha Saptami – 06:49

    Observational Sunrise time on Ratha Saptami – 07:12

    Saptami Tithi Begins – 04:37 on Feb 04, 2025

    Saptami Tithi Ends – 02:30 on Feb 05, 2025

    Significance of Ratha Saptami

    The Saptami tithi is usually dedicated to Lord Surya, and the festival of Ratha Saptami is believed to be extremely auspicious. It is believed that Lord Surya Dev started enlightening the whole world on Ratha Saptami day, which was considered the birthday of God Surya. On the occasion of Ratha Saptami, people often observe a stringent fast and offer their prayers to Lord Surya. Waking up early in the morning, having a holy dip and lighting the auspicious Deepak is also an integral part of the Ratha Saptami celebration.

    The commemoration of Ratha Saptami is often considered to be as important as the day of Surya Grahan when it comes to charity. Because of this, people often mark the day by indulging in acts of charity. People often refer to this day as Surya Jayanti as well. Here’s wishing everyone a Happy Ratha Saptami 2025!

    (Disclaimer: The information provided here is based on beliefs and legends only. Before applying any information in real life, consult the concerned expert.)

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 04, 2025 08:59 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • Uttar Pradesh Day 2025 Date: When Is Uttar Foundation Day? Know History, Significance and Celebrations Related to UP Day!

    Uttar Pradesh Day 2025 Date: When Is Uttar Foundation Day? Know History, Significance and Celebrations Related to UP Day!

    Uttar Pradesh Day 2025 will be celebrated on January 24. This annual commemoration celebrates the day that the state of Uttar Pradesh was formed. Uttar Pradesh Day 2025 marks 76 years of the state’s formation and is sure to be celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm across the state. The celebration of Uttar Pradesh Day is focused on understanding the history of the state and its contribution to India. As we prepare to celebrate UP Diwas 2025, here is everything you need to know about this day, how to celebrate Uttar Pradesh Day and its significance. Uttar Pradesh Foundation Day: From Galouti Kebab to Shahi Tukda, 5 Dishes That You Must Try and Celebrate UP Diwas.

    When is Uttar Pradesh Day 2025?

    Uttar Pradesh Day 2025 will be celebrated on January 24. The annual celebration marks the day that the United Provinces was renamed Uttar Pradesh. The celebration of UP Diwas was first initiated by the UP government in 2017 and has been an annual commemoration ever since.

    Significance of Uttar Pradesh Day

    Uttar Pradesh Day is marked with special events and commemorations. The observance is focused on highlighting the ways that Uttar Pradesh helps shape the Indian economy and its cultural contributions as well. The celebration of Uttar Pradesh Day is marked with key leaders sharing special regards and wishes and people sharing their favourite memories about the state.

    The celebration of Uttar Pradesh Day was proposed by Governor Ram Naik. Uttar Pradesh is known to be India’s most populated state, which holds special significance from a political point of view. The celebration is sure to be marked with great fervour and enthusiasm by people across the state. Here’s wishing everyone a Happy Uttar Pradesh Day 2025!

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 24, 2025 12:26 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • Sakat Chauth 2025 Date and Moonrise Time: Know Tilkut Chauth Puja Vidhi, Significance, Traditions and Celebrations Related to Sankatahara Chaturthi Festival

    Sakat Chauth 2025 Date and Moonrise Time: Know Tilkut Chauth Puja Vidhi, Significance, Traditions and Celebrations Related to Sankatahara Chaturthi Festival

    Sakat Chauth 2025 Date and Moonrise Time: Sakat Chauth, also known as Tilkut Chauth and Sankatahara Chaturthi, an important Hindu festival, is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is observed primarily by women for the well-being, long life, and prosperity of their children. The day holds great significance, as it is believed that fasting on Sakat Chauth brings happiness and success to the lives of children, protecting them from misfortune and ensuring their bright future. Also known by other names like Tilkuta Chauth, Vakra-Tundi Chaturthi, and Maghi Chauth, the festival falls on the fourth day of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) in the Magh month of the Hindu lunar calendar. Sakat Chauth 2025 date falls on Friday, January 17. Let us learn more about the moonrise time on Sakat Chauth Day, significance, traditions, puja vidhi and celebrations related to the Sankatahara Chaturthi festival. January 2025 Holidays and Festivals Calendar: From Republic Day to Makar Sankranti to Chinese New Year, Check Dates of Important Events in the First Month of the Year.

    Sakat Chauth 2025 Date and Shubh Muhurat

    For the year 2025, Sakat Chauth will be observed on January 17, with the fasting period beginning at 4:06 AM and ending on January 18 at 5:30 AM. This year, the festival falls on a Friday, which is considered especially auspicious for worship and fasting.

    Moonrise Time on Sakat Chauth Day

    • Sakat Chauth on Friday, January 17, 2025

    • Moonrise on Sakat Chauth Day – 09:12 PM

    • Chaturthi Tithi Begins – 04:06 AM on January 17, 2025

    • Chaturthi Tithi Ends – 05:30 AM on January 18, 2025

    Significance of Sakat Chauth

    The Sakat Chauth fast is primarily observed to ensure the long life and good health of children and to seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings for their well-being and prosperity. It is believed that those who observe this fast with full devotion experience harmony and happiness in their children’s lives, and any obstacles or challenges they face are removed. The festival is also associated with the worship of Mata Sakat and Chandra Dev (Moon God), both of whom are believed to bring good fortune.

    The fast is done with full reverence, and it is thought that women who follow the rituals with sincere devotion are granted happiness, abundance, and the protection of their children. Special offerings made during the puja include tilkut prasad (a sweet made of sesame seeds and jaggery), fruits, and flowers, all of which are presented to Lord Ganesha during the prayers.

    How Sakat Chauth Is Celebrated

    The rituals of Sakat Chauth are both spiritual and personal. On this day, women keep a Nirjala fast, meaning they abstain from food and water, dedicating the day entirely to worship and devotion. The fast is broken only after offering Arghya (water) to the moon in the evening, following the completion of the puja. This marks the culmination of the fast, bringing blessings and prosperity.

    Sakat Chauth Puja Vidhi

    • Preparation of the Worship Area: Begin by setting up a clean space and placing the idol or image of Lord Ganesha on a wooden stand.

    • Ganesh Puja: Apply a tilak (mark) on the forehead of the idol of Lord Ganesha to honour him. Offer flowers, especially marigolds, and other sacred offerings, such as fruits and sweets, to the deity.

    • Offering Tilkut: Tilkut, a special sweet made from sesame seeds and jaggery, holds significant importance on this day. It is offered as part of the prasad (blessed food) to Lord Ganesha.

    • Lighting the Lamp: A ghee lamp should be lit as part of the puja, symbolizing the removal of darkness and the arrival of light (knowledge and prosperity).

    • Recite Ganesh Chalisa: Chanting the Ganesh Chalisa and other prayers dedicated to Lord Ganesha invokes his blessings for the well-being of the children and the family.

    • Arti and Conclusion: End the puja with the Aarti of Lord Ganesha, followed by wishes for happiness, success, and prosperity. It is important to pray for the protection and bright future of the children during the concluding part of the rituals.

    Traditional Offerings and Celebrations

    The offerings during Sakat Chauth primarily include sesame seeds, jaggery, sugarcane, and fruits, which are placed on the altar as part of the puja. Sesame seeds and jaggery are considered sacred and are said to purify the atmosphere and bring prosperity. After the puja, the prasad is shared with family members and friends as a symbol of goodwill and affection.

    Besides fasting and worship, Sakat Chauth is also a time for social gatherings, especially in rural areas. Women often come together to observe the fast, perform the rituals, and share the offerings with each other, strengthening their bonds of friendship and community. Sakat Chauth Vrat Katha Video: Celebrate Lambodara Sankashti Chaturthi by Worshipping Lord Ganesha With Utmost Devotion (Watch).

    Sakat Chauth is a festival of faith, hope, and devotion, where the primary focus is on the welfare of children and the family. Through prayers, fasting, and rituals, devotees seek blessings for the health, happiness, and prosperity of their loved ones. By honouring Lord Ganesha and observing the traditional practices, the festival brings positivity and harmony into the lives of those who participate. Whether celebrated as Tilkuta Chauth, Vakra-Tundi Chaturthi, or Maghi Chauth, Sakat Chauth remains a cherished occasion for families to unite in prayer and gratitude, ensuring a blessed and prosperous future for their children.

    (Disclaimer: The information provided here is based on beliefs and legends only. Before applying any information in real life, consult the concerned expert.)

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 12, 2025 02:43 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • When Is Vaikuntha Ekadashi Fasting in 2026? Know Mukkoti Ekadasi Date, Parana Time, Shubh Muhurat, Rituals and Celebration Related to Lord Vishnu Festival

    When Is Vaikuntha Ekadashi Fasting in 2026? Know Mukkoti Ekadasi Date, Parana Time, Shubh Muhurat, Rituals and Celebration Related to Lord Vishnu Festival

    Vaikuntha Ekadashi, also known as Mukkoti Ekadasi, is a day of profound spiritual significance when the celestial gates of Vaikuntha, Lord Vishnu’s divine abode, are believed to open, bestowing blessings upon the faithful. This sacred Hindu festival transcends ritual, offering a transformative spiritual experience to those who observe it. While primarily celebrated in South India, Vaikuntha Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and falls during the auspicious month of Margashirsha (December–January), specifically on the eleventh day of the waxing moon. This day is considered much more than a date on the calendar; it is a cosmic event that invites devotees to purify their hearts, cleanse their minds, and embark on a path toward spiritual liberation. Vaikuntha Ekadashi Wishes in Telugu and Lord Vishnu Images: Share Greetings, Quotes, Messages and HD Wallpapers to Celebrate the Auspicious Day.

    Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025 and 2026 Date & Shubh Muhurat

    In 2025, Vaikuntha Ekadashi was observed on Friday, January 10. Devotees will fast and participate in special prayers to honour this sacred occasion. Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025 shubh muhurat:

    • Ekadashi Tithi Begins: The eleventh day of the lunar fortnight begins at 12:22 PM on January 9, 2025.

    • Ekadashi Tithi Ends: It concludes at 10:19 AM on January 10, 2025.

    • Vrat Parana Time: The fast is broken the following day during the Parana time, which occurs between 7:14 AM and 8:21 AM on January 11, 2025. The Parana must be observed after sunrise.

    Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2026 will fall on Sunday, December 20, 2026, though dates may vary based on Hindu panchang. However, as per Drik Panchang,

    • Vaikuntha Ekadashi on Sunday, December 20, 2026

    • On 21st Dec, Parana Time – 06:41 AM to 08:55 AM

    • On Parana Day Dwadashi End Moment – 05:36 PM

    • Ekadashi Tithi Begins – 10:09 PM on Dec 19, 2026

    • Ekadashi Tithi Ends – 08:14 PM on Dec 20, 2026

    Vaikuntha Ekadashi: Importance & Significance

    The observance of Vaikuntha Ekadashi encourages devotees to engage in key spiritual practices:

    • Self-Purification: Through fasting and other forms of spiritual discipline.

    • Devotion: By focusing their prayers and thoughts on Lord Vishnu.

    • Liberation: By seeking an end to the cycle of birth and death.

    In essence, Vaikuntha Ekadashi is a powerful day dedicated to spiritual freedom, divine blessings, and the deep importance of devotion. It is not merely a religious festival but a gateway to liberation and divine grace for sincere practitioners.

    Seva and Donations on Vaikuntha Ekadashi

    During Vaikuntha Ekadashi, offering seva (selfless service) and making donations are powerful ways for devotees to express their devotion. These acts not only earn spiritual merit but also support the temple’s mission of service and worship. Donations and seva contribute to the upkeep of the temple and the continued spread of Lord Vishnu’s teachings. Temples like ISKCON, for example, benefit from such acts of generosity, ensuring the ongoing dissemination of divine grace and devotion to the community. Through these contributions, devotees actively participate in the sacred observance of Vaikuntha Ekadashi and support the growth of spiritual practices that benefit all.

    Vaikuntha Ekadashi represents the opportunity to break free from the endless cycle of birth and death. According to tradition, those who pass away on this day are believed to ascend directly to Vaikuntha, a realm free from suffering and anxiety (Kuntha). In this sense, it is seen as a shortcut to spiritual freedom for those devoted to Lord Vishnu.

    Vaikuntha Ekadashi holds immense spiritual importance, with a primary focus on liberation (moksha). Devotees believe that those who pass away on this day are granted freedom from the endless cycle of birth and death and are directly welcomed into Vaikuntha, the divine realm of Lord Vishnu. This belief amplifies the day’s significance and makes it an essential occasion for those seeking spiritual progress.

    On Vaikuntha Ekadashi, it is believed that Lord Vishnu himself blesses his devotees by personally appearing at the entrances of his temples. As a result, many devotees flock to temples on this day, seeking his divine grace and engaging in prayers and rituals. Additionally, it is said that all the demigods, including Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva, gather in Vaikuntha on this day, creating a universal spiritual congregation that adds to the day’s holiness.

    (Disclaimer: The information provided here is based on beliefs and legends only. Before applying any information in real life, consult the concerned expert.)

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 11, 2025 01:58 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).