festival of sacrifice

Thousands of transgender women participated in the Koothandavar festival, reenacting the Mahabharata legend by marrying and then mourning the symbolic sacrifice of Lord Aravan. This annual event in Koovagam serves as a vital space for the transgender community to assert identity and foster solidarity, culminating in rites of widowhood and purification.

Thousands of transgender women, dressed in fine silk saris and adorned with traditional jewellery and flowers, participated in a symbolic mass wedding.

India's Tirumala Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati is a global spiritual magnet, attracting tens of millions annually and standing as the most visited temple by April 2026. Dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, the temple offers a profound experience beyond darshan, with unique rituals like hair offerings and a GI-tagged laddu prasadam.

At the Venice Film Festival, Nicole Kidman faced an unthinkable moment of sorrow when she received the news of her mother's death just hours before accepting her Best Actress accolade. In the midst of grief, she drew upon her mother’s enduring spirit, embracing the powerful reminder to rise above adversity.

Matatirtha Aunsi, celebrated yesterday in Nepal, honors mothers with rituals and gift-giving. Known as "Aama ko Mukh Herne Din," it's a day to express gratitude for unconditional love. The festival also involves remembering deceased mothers at the Matatirtha temple, reinforcing the profound spiritual connection between children and their mothers.

Two contemporary Bengali films, 'Bisarjan' adapted from Tagore and 'King in the Land of the Princess' exploring Bangladeshi jatra culture, are at the Moscow International Film Festival. 'Bisarjan' tackles faith versus compassion, while the Bangladeshi film critiques societal desires in entertainment. Both films highlight the power of cinema to reflect contemporary issues.

Manisha Koirala marked Nepali New Year 2083 with a touching tribute to the women who inspired her, especially her grandmother and mother. She shared cherished childhood memories, highlighting their influence on her life and career. The actress also celebrated the festive occasion with loved ones, balancing joy with heartfelt remembrance.

How Subodh Kerkar’s Ocean Odyssey ignited Hooligaanism’s most ambitious project yet

Punjabi Bradri organised the 74th Baisakhi cultural festival on Tuesday. The event, supported by the tourism and art and culture departments, was held to mark the harvest festival and commemorate the foundation of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699

A cabin crew member's heartfelt video about leaving her five-year career resonated deeply online. Nitika Mehta shared not only the challenging aspects like missed family events but also the cherished small moments and unique friendships formed at 35,000 feet. Her departure highlights the bittersweet reality of outgrowing even a dream job.

Exclusive: Javokhir Sindarov won the 2026 FIDE Candidates Tournament, earning a World Championship match against D Gukesh. Germany No. 1 Vincent Keymer praised his aggressive and fearless style of play. "It was easy for him to lose the first game," said Keymer as Uzbek prodigy sealed the title with a round to spare.

India honors Dr. B.R. Ambedkar on April 14th, celebrating his pivotal role in shaping the nation and its constitution. Ambedkar Jayanti commemorates his fight against social discrimination and his vision for an equal, just society. The day inspires citizens to uphold democratic values and strive for progress through education and unity.

Kolkata's Easter celebrations blend faith and family, with traditions evolving while retaining their core meaning. Families like Sreeparna Mandal's, Melissa Alford Naidu's, Alice and Neville Koyithara's, and Jason Aaron's highlight togetherness, devotion, gratitude, and cherished memories. From prayer and Lenten sacrifices to chocolate indulgence and playful treasure hunts, the festival fosters connection and celebrates hope.