Uttarakhand, a state rich in culture and tradition, observed a unique festival known as Igas Bagwal. This festival, also called Budhi Diwali or Harbodhni Ekadashi, is celebrated in the mountainous regions with reverence and joy, precisely 11 days after Diwali. Rooted in local customs, Igas Bagwal represents the essence of Uttarakhand's folk heritage, uniting communities through shared festivities and traditional practices.
One of the unique customs of Igas Bagwal is the Bhailo, or torch play. Villagers create large torches by binding pinewood sticks with rope. These torches are lit and swung overhead in circles, an act believed to invoke the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity and happiness. Known locally as Andhaya, the torch ritual is symbolic of banishing darkness and inviting light, joy, and positivity.
Nov 12, 2024
Shriya Pilgaonkar Returns as Goodwill Ambassador for India's Largest Environmental Film Festival ...
Popular actress and passionate environmentalist Shriya Pilgaonkar joined hands with the All Living Things Environmental Film Festival (ALT EFF) as the Goodwill Ambassador for its 2024 edition to be held from Nov 22 - Dec 8, 2024, in Mumbai. She is known for her powerful performances in film and web series, as well as her steadfast commitment to environmental protection.
Bollywood actress and environmental activist Dia Mirza was appointed as a jury member for the All Living Things Environmental Film Festival (ALT EFF) 2024. The festival will showcase 72 films, including 38 India premieres, focusing on critical environmental issues like climate change and wildlife conservation.
Nov 08, 2024
Indian Military Heritage Festival 2024: A Tribute to India's Military Legacy
The 2nd edition of the Indian Military Heritage Festival (IMHF) began on November 8, 2024, in New Delhi. The two-day event, backed by the Ministry of Defence and several esteemed institutions, aims to bring together global and Indian think tanks, academicians, corporations, and military experts to discuss topics related to India's national security, foreign policy, and military heritage.
This year's festival was inaugurated by Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan, along with the three Service Chiefs. It follows the success of the inaugural IMHF held in October 2023, which highlighted India's rich military culture through various exhibits and performances.
Nov 07, 2024
Ningol Chakkouba Festival Celebrated with Joy across Manipur
Ningol Chakkouba, one of the most significant festivals of the Meitei community in Manipur, was celebrated across the state with immense religious fervor and joy. The festival symbolises family bonds and togetherness.
Ningol Chakkouba bears a resemblance to Bhai Dooj, celebrated in various forms across India, like Bhai Phota, Bhaubeej, and Yama Dwitiya, which fall two days after Diwali. Both festivals are rooted in the celebration of sibling bonds, signifying the universal theme of family.
Union Minister Virendra Kumar Launches 'Shilp Samagam Mela 2024' and Unveils 'TULIP' Platform
The Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment inaugurated the 'Shilp Samagam Mela 2024' at Dilli Haat, New Delhi. The 'Shilp Samagam Mela 2024' was organised by key corporations under the Ministry, including the National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation (NSFDC), National Backward Classes Finance and Development Corporation (NBCDFC), and National Safai Karmachari Finance and Development Corporation (NSKFDC).
The mela aimed to empower marginalised artisans by providing a marketplace for their crafts and products, encouraging economic inclusion and cultural promotion.
The TULIP (Traditional Artisans' Upliftment Livelihood Programme) is a digital e-marketing platform to empower marginalized artisans (SC, OBC, sanitation workers, and persons with disabilities) by providing a platform for global exposure and sales.
Nov 05, 2024
Oscars 2025: Kannada Short Film 'Sunflowers Were the First Ones to Know' Qualifies
Indian film 'Sunflowers Were the First Ones to Know' qualified for Oscars 2025 in the Live Action Short Film category. The Kannada short film is produced by the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII).
Interestingly, the short film 'Sunflowers Were the First Ones to Know' won first prize earlier this year (2024) at the Cannes Film Festival's La Cinef Selection. The film which is 16-minutes long is inspired from Indian folk stories and traditions.