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    Indian Art and Culture for Competitive Affairs

    Parsi New Year, Navroz 2025 : Celebrated on March 20

    The Parsi New Year, also known as Navroz or Nowruz, is observed on March 20, coinciding with the spring equinox, a time when day and night are of equal length. This ancient festival has its roots in Zoroastrianism, one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions, founded by Prophet Zoroaster in ancient Persia (modern-day Iran).

    History and Significance

    Navroz, meaning “new day” in Persian, has been celebrated for over 3,000 years. It marks the beginning of the Persian calendar and symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, as well as the renewal of nature. The festival is named Jamshedi Navroz in honor of King Jamshed, who is credited with introducing the Parsi calendar.

    The Parsi community in India, which migrated from Persia during the Islamic invasion in the 7th century, has preserved this tradition with great fervor. Navroz is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, highlighting its cultural and historical importance.

    Char Dham Yatra 2025: The Sacred Journey Begins on April 30

    The Char Dham Yatra is a revered pilgrimage in India, encompassing visits to four sacred shrines in Uttarakhand: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. These sites are nestled in the Himalayas and hold immense spiritual significance in Hinduism. The journey is believed to cleanse the soul and pave the way for salvation. The Yatra traditionally begins at Yamunotri, followed by Gangotri, Kedarnath, and concludes at Badrinath.

    Registration for Char Dham Yatra

    To participate in the Yatra, registration is mandatory. Here’s how you can register:

    Online Registration:

    • Visit the official website: registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in.
    • Create an account and provide your personal details, including a valid ID proof (Aadhaar, Passport, etc.).
    • Select your preferred dates and complete the process by downloading your e-pass.

    Offline Registration:

    • Visit designated counters in cities like Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun.
    • Provide your documents and receive a QR code or registration letter.

    The Yatra begins with the opening of the Gangotri and Yamunotri Dhams on April 30, followed by Kedarnath on May 2 and Badrinath on May 4.

    Holi 2025: India Drenched in Colors, Joy, and Unity!

    The festival of colors, Holi, was celebrated with immense enthusiasm across India on 14 March 2025. Streets were filled with vibrant hues, people danced to festive beats, and traditional sweets added to the joy of the occasion.

    🌸 Highlights from Across India:

    🔹 Uttar Pradesh: From Braj Mandal to Ayodhya Dham, Holi was celebrated with grandeur. CM Yogi Adityanath, while flagging off the Bhagwan Nrisinh Vishwa Yatra in Gorakhpur, emphasized that festivals should symbolize harmony, peace, and equality.

    🔹 Unity in Diversity: People from all communities—Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs—joined the celebrations, applying colors, dancing together, and sharing sweets, showcasing India’s cultural harmony.

    🔹 Security Forces Join the Festivities: The Army, BSF, and CRPF personnel celebrated Holi even at forward locations, adding warmth and joy to the occasion.

    Sahityaotsav 2025: Asia’s Largest Literature Festival Begins in New Delhi

    Sahitya Akademi is hosting its annual Festival of Letters, Sahityaotsav 2025, from March 7 to 12 at Rabindra Bhavan, New Delhi. This six-day literary extravaganza, inaugurated by Union Minister for Culture, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, is Asia’s largest literature festival.

    With over 700 writers from across India, representing more than 50 languages, the festival promises to be a grand celebration of literature. The prestigious Sahitya Akademi Awards will be conferred in 23 languages, recognizing outstanding literary contributions.

    Themed “Indian Literary Traditions,” Sahityaotsav 2025 will host nearly 120 sessions, featuring young writers, women writers, North-East and tribal writers, LGBTQ writers, poets, translators, publishers, and distinguished personalities. Attendees can experience insightful discussions, readings, and presentations by renowned authors, poets, critics, and scholars.

    Open to all literature enthusiasts, the Festival of Letters is a must-visit for those passionate about India’s rich literary heritage. Entry is free, making it an inclusive platform to explore diverse literary voices and celebrate the power of words.

    Ramadan Begins in India on 2 March 2025

    Ramadan commenced in India on Sunday, 2 March 2025, as Muslims across the country began their first day of fasting. The month-long observance started in various other nations as well, following the sighting of the crescent moon.

    On Saturday, Maulana Mufti Mukarram Ahmed, the Shahi Imam of Fatehpuri Mosque, along with religious organizations, announced the official start of Ramadan. Due to poor weather conditions, the crescent moon was not visible on Saturday, making Sunday the first fasting day.

    Ramadan is observed as a month of fasting from dawn to sunset, concluding with Eid-ul-Fitr. Muslims also participate in special nightly prayers, Tarawih, during which the entire Quran is recited over the month. The fasting period ends with the sighting of the Eid moon, marking the beginning of festivities.

    India International Dance and Music Festival held from 22 to 27 February 2025, in New Delhi

    The 10th edition of the India International Dance and Music Festival, themed “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (The World is One Family), was held from February 22 to February 27, 2025, in New Delhi. It was organized by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) in collaboration with the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) at Baansera Park on the banks of the Yamuna River.

    The festival showcased a diverse array of dance and music performances from artists around the world. Participants from countries including India, Russia, Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan, Fiji, Malaysia, Maldives, Vietnam, South Africa, and Rwanda highlighted their rich cultural heritage, promoting cross-cultural understanding and artistic collaboration.

    The theme, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” emphasized global unity and harmony. The event also marked the ecological revival of the Yamuna floodplain, symbolizing the confluence of culture and nature. With thousands of attendees, the festival was a resounding success, embodying the spirit of global togetherness and cultural exchange.

    Mahakumbh 2025 Culminating on Mahashivratri (26 February 2025)

    The Mahakumbh, a grand spiritual gathering that takes place once every 12 years, culminated on the auspicious day of Mahashivratri, February 26, 2025. This 45-day event, which began on January 13 (Paush Purnima), saw millions of devotees from across India and beyond converge at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj.

    Mahashivratri, a significant day in Hinduism, commemorates the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It holds special importance in the context of the Kumbh Mela, as it is believed that bathing in the holy waters on this day cleanses one of past sins and paves the way for spiritual liberation.

    The Mahakumbh 2025 witnessed a record-breaking turnout, with over 64 crore pilgrims participating in the event. The final day saw a massive influx of devotees, with over 41.11 lakh people taking a holy dip at the Sangam by 6 am. The event featured grand processions of Naga Sadhus and three ‘Amrit Snans’ (holy baths), adding to the religious fervor.

    Despite the grandeur, the Mahakumbh 2025 was also marked by unfortunate incidents, including a deadly stampede on January 29 that claimed 30 lives and injured over 60 people. Several fire incidents and road accidents also occurred as pilgrims traveled to and from the Kumbh.

    As the Mahakumbh concluded on Mahashivratri, devotees bid farewell to this historic event, carrying with them blessings, memories, and the hope of returning to the next great gathering.

    Mahakumbh in Prayagraj Sets World Record with Over 50 Crore Participants

    The Mahakumbh in Prayagraj has made history by becoming the first event in the world where more than 50 crore (500 million) people have participated directly. This incredible milestone was achieved on 14 February 2025, during the ongoing Maha Kumbh, which started on January 13, 2025, and will continue until February 26, 2025.

    The Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers, has seen an unprecedented number of devotees taking a holy dip. This figure surpasses the combined population of many countries, including the United States and Russia. The Uttar Pradesh government has highlighted this as the largest congregation in human history for any religious, cultural, or social event.

    Despite challenges such as a deadly stampede on January 29, the fair has continued to attract millions of pilgrims from India and around the world daily. The event has not only showcased the deep-rooted faith of the devotees but also the remarkable organizational efforts of the authorities involved.

    38th Surajkund International Crafts Fair from 7 to 23 February 2025 in Faridabad

    The 38th Surajkund International Crafts Fair in Faridabad began on February 7, 2025, and runs until February 23, 2025. This significant event features over 2,500 artisans from India and abroad, with more than 1,250 huts showcasing a variety of crafts.

    The fair, inaugurated by Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, supports the vision of ‘Ek Bharat-Shreshtha Bharat’ and the Orange Economy. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of handicrafts, textiles, live cultural performances, and diverse cuisines. The fair highlights theme states Madhya Pradesh and Odisha, and includes participation from BIMSTEC nations. It’s a celebration of India’s unity, culture, and artistic legacy.

    Third Amrit Snan Held on Basant Panchami in Mahakumbh, Prayagraj

    Over 2.33 crore devotees took a holy dip in the Sangam during the third Amrit Snan on the occasion of Basant Panchami in Mahakumbh, Prayagraj on 2 Feb 2025. The Amrit Snan is the most significant and sacred ritual of the Maha Kumbh Mela. The first two Amrit Snans took place on Makar Sankranti and Mauni Amavasya.

    The third Amrit Snan in Mahakumbh concluded smoothly as the state government adopted a zero-error approach. The Amrit Snan commenced with Saints and seers of 13 Akharas followed by the devotees. Flower petals were showered on saints and devotees taking a holy dip at Triveni Sangam. To avoid chaos, separate pathways were used for entry and exit to safeguard the flow of devotees. The security of the Mela area was monitored through drones, helicopters and CCTV cameras. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath regularly monitored the security situation at the war room set up at his residence, taking continuous updates from the DGP and Home Secretary and giving them instructions for the smooth conduct of the Amrit Snan. The Maha Kumbh Mela, recognized as the world’s largest spiritual gathering, commenced on 13th January and over 37 crore devotees have taken holy dips so far.

    Q.: On which occasion was the third Amrit Snan held in Mahakumbh, Prayagraj on February 2, 2025?

    a) Makar Sankranti
    b) Basant Panchami
    c) Mauni Amavasya
    d) Holi

    Ans: b) Basant Panchami
    Over 2.33 crore devotees took a holy dip in the Sangam during the third Amrit Snan on the occasion of Basant Panchami in Mahakumbh, Prayagraj on 2 Feb 2025.

    King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck Takes Holy Dip at Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj

    King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck of Bhutan visited Prayagraj on February 4, 2025 to participate in the Maha Kumbh. During his visit, he took a sacred dip at the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. This significant event was attended by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who welcomed the King and participated in the rituals alongside him.

    The King’s visit highlights the strong cultural and diplomatic ties between India and Bhutan. After the holy dip, both the King and the Chief Minister offered prayers and performed the Aarti amid the chanting of Vedic hymns. The event was attended by several dignitaries and devotees, emphasizing the global significance of the Maha Kumbh.

    The King’s participation in the Maha Kumbh reflects the spiritual and cultural importance of this grand religious gathering, which attracts millions of pilgrims and dignitaries from around the world.

    Record Attendance and Unfortunate Incident Mark Mauni Amavasya at Kumbh Mela

    On January 29, 2025, over seven crore devotees took a holy dip in the Sangam at Prayagraj during Mauni Amavasya. Following their dip in the Triveni Sangam, devotees performed rituals and offered prayers. The Maha Kumbh Mela, which began on January 13, has seen more than 26 crore devotees take a holy dip so far.

    Tragically, at least 30 people lost their lives, and 60 others were injured in an incident at Sangam Ghat in the early hours of January 29. DIG Kumbh Mela Vaibhav Krishna reported that the incident occurred when a large crowd gathered, leading to broken barricades. Swift rescue operations were carried out, including creating a green corridor for ambulances to transport the injured to hospitals.

    Sanskriti ka Mahakumbh: A Grand Cultural Festival at Maha Kumbh Mela from January 16 to February 24, 2025

    Sanskriti ka Mahakumbh is a grand cultural festival held during the Maha Kumbh Mela, from January 16 to February 24, 2025. It showcases India’s rich cultural heritage through performances by artists nationwide. Highlights include:

    • Classical singing by Prof. Ritwik Sanyal
    • Odissi dance by Bichtrananda Swain
    • Sitar recital by Kushal Das
    • Bhajans and light music performances by Shankar Mahadevan and Ravi Shankar

    Traditional folk performances like Nautanki, Alha singing, and tribal folk dances will also be featured, highlighting India’s diverse cultural traditions. It’s a vibrant celebration of Indian culture, drawing thousands of spectators to witness and participate in these performances.

    Makar Sankranti: A Tribute to Sun’s Transition

    Makar Sankranti is a vibrant Hindu festival celebrated across India, marking the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara). This festival, typically falling on January 14th, symbolizes the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days. It is a day filled with joyous activities such as kite flying, bonfires, and traditional sweets made from sesame seeds and jaggery.

    In different regions, Makar Sankranti is known by various names like Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Uttarayan in Gujarat, and Lohri in Punjab. Each region has its unique customs and rituals, but the underlying theme remains the celebration of nature’s bounty and the Sun’s journey. This festival also holds agricultural significance, as it marks the harvesting season in many parts of India.

    Maha Kumbh, the world’s largest spiritual and cultural gathering, began on 13 January 2025 in Prayagraj

    The Maha Kumbh, the world’s largest spiritual and cultural gathering, began on 13 January 2025 in Prayagraj with the Amrit Snan on Paush Poornima.

    Millions of devotees are taking holy dips at the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. This year’s event is significant due to a rare celestial alignment that occurs once in 144 years.

    The Maha Kumbh will continue until Mahashivaratri on 26 February 2025. Nearly 50 lakh devotees took a dip yesterday, and many will observe the month-long tradition of Kalpvas until Magh Poornima.

    21st Third Eye Asian Film Festival from January 10 to 16, 2025, in Mumbai and Thane

    The 21st edition of the Third Eye Asian Film Festival will be held from January 10 to January 16, 2025, in Mumbai and Thane. The festival will showcase 61 films from various Asian countries, including China, Malaysia, and South Korea.

    It will open with the award-winning Chinese film The Black Dog. Special highlights include a Country Focus on South Korea and a competition section for Marathi films.

    Awards such as the Asian Cinema Culture Award to Javed Akhtar and the Satyajit Ray Memorial Award to Rafique Baghdadi will be presented. The festival aims to celebrate and promote the rich diversity of Asian cinema.

    Bosnia’s “Balkan Blues” Earns UNESCO Recognition and Inclusion in National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage

    UNESCO Recognition: Bosnia’s traditional love song, Sevdalinka, often referred to as the Balkan Blues, was recognized by UNESCO and included in its National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage on December 27, 2024.

    Historical Significance: Sevdalinka dates back to the 16th century and is a blend of South Slavic oral poetry and Ottoman Empire music.

    Cultural Preservation: Musicians like Enes Salman and Damir Imamovic have been instrumental in keeping the tradition alive and promoting it globally.

    Modern Interpretations: Younger musicians have reinterpreted Sevdalinka, bringing it to global audiences and ensuring its continued relevance.

    Custodians of Tradition: Ethnomusicologists like Zanin Berbic play a crucial role in preserving and promoting Sevdalinka through performances and education.

    Pt. Swapan Choudhary Receives National Tansen Award 2023

    The National Tansen Award and Raja Mansingh Tomar Award were given on 18 December 2024 during the Tansen Festival in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh.

    National Tansen Award:

    • Recipient: Pt. Swapan Choudhary, a renowned tabla player from Kolkata, was honored with the National Tansen Samman for the year 2023.
    • Prize: The award includes an honorarium of five lakh rupees, a citation plaque, and a shawl-shriphal.
    • Significance: This award is the highest national music award in the field of Indian classical music, established by the Madhya Pradesh government.

    Raja Mansingh Tomar Award:

    • Recipient: Sanand Nyas, an institution from Indore, was honored with the Raja Mansingh Tomar Samman for the year 2023.
    • Institution’s Contribution: Sanand Nyas has been active in the fields of classical music, drama, and cultural festivals in Indore for the last 35 years.

    MCQs on National Tansen Award and Raja Mansingh Tomar Awards

    Q.: Who was honored with the National Tansen Samman for the year 2023?

    a) Pt. Hariprasad Chaurasia
    b) Ustad Zakir Hussain
    c) Pt. Swapan Choudhary
    d) Amjad Ali Khan

    Ans: c) Pt. Swapan Choudhary
    Pt. Swapan Choudhary, a renowned tabla player from Kolkata, was honored with the National Tansen Samman for the year 2023.

    Q.: Which institution was honored with the Raja Mansingh Tomar Samman for the year 2023?

    a) Raga Nyas
    b) Sanand Nyas
    c) Saptak Nyas
    d) Surana Nyas

    Ans: b) Sanand Nyas
    Recipient: Sanand Nyas, an institution from Indore, was honored with the Raja Mansingh Tomar Samman for the year 2023.

    Gadhimai Mahotsav: World’s Largest Animal Sacrifice Festival

    The Gadhimai Mahotsav, held every five years at the Gadhimai Temple in Nepal’s Madhesh Province, is the world’s largest animal sacrifice festival. Gadhimai Mahotsav, started on December 2 and concluded on December 15, 2024. Despite decades of criticism from animal rights activists and court bans in India and Nepal, the 2023-24 festival saw a record footfall of 2.5 crore people. The festival’s central rituals involve sacrificing animals like buffaloes, goats, and birds, preceded by a shamanic offering of five forest animals. Devotees believe the sacrifices fulfill wishes, often related to patriarchal traditions, such as blessings for male offspring.

    Efforts to curb the practice have included court rulings restricting animal transport and banning public sacrifices, but enforcement is weak, and sacrifices now occur behind closed doors. Meat from sacrificed animals is auctioned and often exported, adding economic value. The festival generates significant revenue through tourism and local commerce, creating a financial incentive for its continuation. Political reluctance to intervene stems from the fear of offending religious sentiments, leaving NGOs and civil society groups struggling to balance opposition with respect for cultural traditions.

    Legendary tabla maestro Zakir Hussain passed away at the age of 73 in the United States

    Legendary tabla maestro Zakir Hussain passed away at the age of 73 in the United States on 15 December 2024 due to blood-pressure-related complications. Born on March 9, 1951, in Mumbai, he was the eldest son of tabla legend Allah Rakha.

    With a career spanning six decades, Zakir Hussain won five Grammy Awards, including three at the 66th Grammy Awards in 2024. He acted in films such as ‘Saaz’ and ‘Heat and Dust’, with his latest film ‘Monkey Man’ released in 2024. His groundbreaking 1973 collaboration with John McLaughlin, L Shankar, and T.H. ‘Vikku’ Vinayakram fused Indian classical music with jazz, creating a new genre.

    Zakir Hussain received numerous prestigious honors, including the Padma Shri in 1988, the Padma Bhushan in 2002, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2023.

    Hornbill Festival in Kisama Heritage Village, Nagaland from December 1 to December 10.

    The Hornbill Festival, also known as the Festival of Festivals, is an annual celebration held in the northeastern Indian state of Nagaland from December 1 to December 10. Organized by the Government of Nagaland, the festival showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Naga tribes and aims to promote inter-ethnic interaction and unity.

    The festival takes place at the Kisama Heritage Village, located about 12 km from Kohima. It features a vibrant array of cultural displays, including traditional Naga dances, music, crafts, sports, food fairs, and religious ceremonies. Visitors can experience the unique customs, folklore, and traditions of the Naga people, making it a truly immersive cultural experience.

    Key highlights of the Hornbill Festival include:

    • Traditional Naga Morungs: Exhibitions showcasing the traditional houses and cultural artifacts of the Naga tribes.
    • Cultural Performances: Colorful dances, songs, and music performances by various Naga tribes.
    • Crafts and Art: Display and sale of traditional Naga crafts, wood carvings, paintings, and sculptures.
    • Food Fairs: A variety of Naga cuisine, including traditional dishes and delicacies.
    • Sports and Games: Traditional Naga sports such as archery, wrestling, and indigenous games.
    • Music Festival: The Hornbill Music Festival, featuring performances by renowned artists from across India and abroad.

    The Hornbill Festival is a celebration of Naga culture and heritage, providing a platform for the diverse ethnic groups of Nagaland to come together and share their traditions with visitors from around the world.

    Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, from 6 to 8 December 2024

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, on 6 December 2024. The three-day festival celebrates the culture, crafts, and tourism of the eight North Eastern states—Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura—collectively known as Ashtalakshmi.

    The event will feature:

    • 250+ artisans showcasing handicrafts, handlooms, and agri-horti products, including 34 GI-tagged items.
    • A Fashion Show, Design Conclave, and Buyer-Seller Meet to promote collaborations and economic growth.
    • A Rural Haat Bazaar with products from 320 farmers and artisans.

    The Mahotsav aims to boost economic development in the North East, creating opportunities for artisans, weavers, and entrepreneurs.

    Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, 2025

    The Maha Kumbh 2025 is set to be a grand and spiritually significant event, taking place in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh from January 13 to February 26, 2025. This festival, held once every 12 years, is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, attracting millions of devotees and tourists from across the globe.

    The Maha Kumbh is rooted in Hindu mythology and is celebrated at four sacred locations: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. The event commemorates the mythological churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) and the subsequent quest for the nectar of immortality. Pilgrims believe that taking a dip in the holy waters during the Kumbh Mela cleanses them of their sins and brings them closer to salvation.

    Key highlights of the Maha Kumbh 2025 include:

    • Royal Baths (Shahi Snan): These are special bathing dates when religious leaders and devotees take a dip in the holy waters. Important dates include Makar Sankranti (January 14), Mauni Amavasya (January 29), Basant Panchami (February 3), Maghi Purnima (February 12), and Mahashivratri (February 26).
    • Cultural Events: The festival features vibrant cultural activities such as traditional processions (Peshwai), spiritual discourses, yoga sessions, and devotional music performances.
    • Infrastructure and Facilities: The Uttar Pradesh government has made extensive preparations, including the creation of a new district for the duration of the Maha Kumbh, improved infrastructure, and world-class accommodation facilities.

    82 young artists conferred with Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar

    On 22 November 2024, 82 young artists were honored with the Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar in New Delhi for the years 2022 and 2023. The awards, presented by Culture Ministry Secretary Arunish Chawla, recognize young talents in music, dance, drama, and folk and tribal art forms. Recipients, all under the age of 40, receive a cash prize of ₹25,000.

    Awardee Yusuf Khan Mewati from Rajasthan shared his delight, while Padma Dolker expressed pride in becoming the first young artist from Ladakh to receive this prestigious honor.

    55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) from 20 to 28 November 2024 in Goa

    The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) kicked off with a star-studded opening ceremony at the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium in Panaji, Goa, on November 20, 2024. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, Information and Broadcasting Secretary Sanjay Jaju, and festival director Shekhar Kapur were among the dignitaries present.

    The festival, which runs from November 20 to November 28, 2024, will showcase over 180 international titles from 81 countries, including 16 world premieres, 3 international premieres, 43 Asian premieres, and 109 Indian films. This year, the festival has a special segment dedicated to Goan films, with 14 films being screened.

    One of the highlights of the festival is the world premiere of Prime Video’s first-ever celebrity chat show, “The Rana Daggubati Show,” which will feature a dazzling line-up of guests, including Nani, Dulquer Salmaan, and S.S. Rajamouli. The festival will also host the Asia premiere of the internationally acclaimed movie “The Mehta Boys,” directed by Boman Irani].

    The 55th IFFI aims to celebrate global cinema and connect filmmakers with cinephiles to explore the art of filmmaking. It provides a platform for ambitious filmmakers, cineastes, and industry professionals to access excellent cinema from across the world.

    Guru Nanak Jayanti or Gurpurab on 15 November 2024

    Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Gurpurab, is one of the most sacred festivals in Sikhism. It commemorates the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. Observed on the full moon day in the month of Kartik (October-November), it holds immense religious and cultural significance for Sikhs and is celebrated with great devotion around the world. This year Guru Nanak Jayanti celebrated on 15 November 2024.

    Significance

    Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in 1469 in Talwandi, now known as Nankana Sahib in Pakistan. He is revered as a spiritual leader who taught principles of equality, compassion, and devotion to God. His teachings emphasized love, selflessness, and unity. Guru Nanak’s message, captured in the sacred text Guru Granth Sahib, promotes “Naam Japna” (meditation on God’s name), “Kirat Karni” (honest work), and “Vand Chakna” (sharing with others).

    Indian musicians Ricky Kej and Anoushka Shankar nominated for the 67th Grammy Awards

    Indian musicians Ricky Kej and Anoushka Shankar have received Grammy nominations for the 67th Grammy Awards. Ricky Kej, a three-time Grammy winner, earned his fourth nomination for his album Break of Dawn in the Best New Age, Ambient, or Chant Album category.

    Anoushka Shankar was nominated in the same category for her album Chapter II: How Dark It Is Before Dawn, showcasing her blend of traditional and modern music.

    Other nominees in this category include Warriors of Light by Radhika Vekaria and Triveni by Chandrika Tandon, featuring flautist Wouter Kellerman and cellist Eru Matsumoto.

    The Grammy Awards will be held on February 2, 2025, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

    Four-day Chhath Puja festival began on November 5, 2024

    The four-day Chhath Puja festival began on November 5, 2024, with the ritual of Nahay-Khay. Devotees started the festival by taking holy dips in rivers and performing puja to the Sun God, consuming offerings like Arwa rice and Chana dal. In Bihar, large gatherings formed along the Ganga, Kosi, Gandak, and other rivers.

    On November 6, the Kharna ritual will be observed, followed by a strict 36-hour fast without water. The First Arghya, offerings to the setting Sun, will be given on November 7, and the festival will conclude on November 8 with a final Arghya to the rising Sun. Devotees will gather at riverbanks and famous Sun temples across Bihar. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar extended greetings for Chhath Puja.

    ‘Sunflowers Were The First Ones To Know’ qualifies for 2025 Oscars Short Film category

    The Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) student film Sunflowers Were The First Ones To Know has qualified for the 2025 Oscars in the Live Action Short Film category. Directed by FTII student Chidananda S Naik, this Kannada short film is inspired by Indian folk stories and traditions. Earlier, it won first prize at the Cannes Film Festival’s La Cinef Selection, where the jury praised its storytelling and direction.

    The film follows the story of an elderly woman who steals the village rooster, causing sunlight to disappear and bringing chaos to the community. A prophecy then forces her family into exile to retrieve the rooster and restore peace.

    Sunflowers will have special screenings and events to connect with global audiences, showcasing India’s storytelling traditions and universal themes that resonate worldwide.

    Ningol Chakkouba festival celebrated in Manipur

    The Ningol Chakkouba festival, one of Manipur’s biggest, was celebrated on November 3, 2024. It is a special festival for the Meitei community but is now enjoyed by other communities too.

    Ningol Chakkouba happens each year on the second day of the Meitei lunar month called Hiyangei. On this day, married sisters come to their maternal homes for a big feast and happy reunion, where gifts are exchanged. Traditionally, the brother invites his sister a week before the festival. Many Manipuris celebrate this festival even when they are living outside Manipur.

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