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.

Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann accused the BJP of attempting to brand patriotic Punjabis as anti-nationals and conspiring to destroy the state's social harmony for electoral gains. He warned that the BJP's divisive politics, seen in West Bengal, was being replicated in Punjab, but asserted that Punjabis would never allow such forces to succeed.

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.

Mother's Day in 2026 continues to be a personal occasion that encourages reflection and genuine appreciation, moving beyond fleeting digital trends. It emphasizes recognizing the often-overlooked efforts and quiet support mothers provide, highlighting that simple, honest messages hold more weight than grand gestures. The day serves as a reminder to express gratitude before opportunities are lost.

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.

Good Friday, a solemn day preceding Easter, marks Christians' remembrance of Jesus Christ's crucifixion. Despite its sorrowful nature, the day is termed 'good' for its perceived outcome: forgiveness and reconciliation. Believers observe this pivotal event through prayer, fasting, and special church services, reflecting on sacrifice and anticipating resurrection.

Easter Sunday arrives on April 5, marking the end of Holy Week. This day signifies hope and new beginnings, especially relevant in today's world. People are sharing heartfelt messages and Bible verses to connect with loved ones. Traditions like sunrise services and egg hunts remain important. These gestures foster a sense of community and shared humanity.

Odisha celebrated Utkal Divas with a Rs 585-crore development project announced for Satyabadi, focusing on the historic Bakulban and the surrounding region. President, PM, and Governor extended wishes, highlighting the state's rich culture and people's contributions. A fortnight-long 'Odia Pakhya' celebration of language and heritage has also commenced.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered prayers and joined the Surya Tilak ceremony at Ayodhya's Ram Mandir virtually. He conveyed greetings for Ram Navami, wishing for renewed energy and enthusiasm across the nation. Devotees gathered at temples nationwide, with Ayodhya seeing large crowds. Security was enhanced to manage the pilgrims. Ram Navami celebrates the birth of Lord Rama.

A surprising cross-industry collaboration saw Telugu star Ram Charan lend his voice to Salman Khan in the dubbed version of 'Prem Ratan Dhan Payo', titled 'Prema Leela'. This unique move, stemming from their strong personal bond, delighted fans and boosted the film's reach. Their camaraderie has since led to further on-screen appearances, solidifying a memorable connection between the two stars.

In Patna, the vibrant Bengali community is joyfully partaking in 'Basanti Pujo', a cherished springtime homage to Goddess Durga, which heralds the dawn of the festive season long before autumn arrives. This time-honored celebration thrives at Pucca Bari, Bangali Akhara, and Patna Kalibari, showcasing intricate rituals, communal feasts, and vibrant cultural displays.

Ram Navami, celebrating the birth of Lord Rama, falls on March 26, 2026, a Thursday. This auspicious day marks the end of Chaitra Navratri and emphasizes the triumph of dharma. Devotees observe fasts, visit temples, and reflect on Lord Rama's virtues of truth, righteousness, and compassion, sharing wishes and messages with loved ones.