Dowry is Culture of Nepal

Dowry is the property or money given by bride's family to the bridegrooms family. From the girl's side it is given to the male side as a present or sometimes, this will be the financial support. As a dowry some people offer valuable ornaments, utensils and clothes, other give car, house and land. This system started when the people invested to offer something as a memory while sending the daughters or sisters to other's house. They thought this could console the lady when she departs from her birth house. In Nepali society also/ this system is prevant specially, dowry system is popular in patrichaltype of traditional societies. Ladies do not have any right of getting hereditical property in such societies. In Nepal, Bara, Parsa, Rauthat, Mahotri, Sarlahi, Dhanusha, etc.districts , we get a type of custom is bad. This is a type of social evil because it can create the situation of being unmarried for the girls who are from very economically poor background. If the government of the nation make policy to provide ladies with hereditical wealth, this system will be discouraged. Males and females both play very important role for the nations development. It is said that men and women are two wheels of a cart. Without one , next will be meaningless, so I think rather than the dowry. We should provide good education to the girls. So, that their participation in different secors like politics, jobs, etc. can be increased...........

Gokul Asthami Day

Gokulashtami marks the celebration of the birth of Bhagavan Sri Krishna. Lord Sri Krishna was born on the ‘Rohini’ nakshatram (star) on Ashtami day. This festival is also known as Sri Krishna Jayanti and Janmashtami. The actual day of celebration can be on two different days as the star ‘Rohini’ and Ashtami may not be on the same day. This occurs between August and September on the Christian calendar.Krishna Jayanthi is also called as Janma Ashtami day, Gokula Ashtami and Sri Jayanthi.The birthday of Krishna, who was born to King Vasudeva and Devaki Devi is celebrated as a festival on the eighth day of the dark fortnight in the month of Sravana, which corresponds to the English month of August-September. Therefore Gokuashtami means Gokul – Krishna and Ashtami – eight.Sri Krishna is Lord Vishnu’s eighth avatar (incarnation) on earth. He is considered to be the Lord’s most glorious incarnations. Even saying and remembering His name brings joy because Sri Krishna himself was a manifestation of joy at all levels and in all walks of life. No other God in the Hindu pantheon, or for that matter in any other religion, is associated with so many romantic tales and so fully radiating with all the divine attributes as Sri Krishna.Since Sri Krishna lived in luxury throughout his life, Sri Krishna Jayanti is celebrated with pomp and splendor. Plenty of sweets are made. Among these are laddus (yellu oonde), chakli, cheedai, payasam (kheer), and so on. In addition, plenty of milk products especially butter, which was Sri Krishna’s favorite childhood food, are given in offerings. A wide variety of fruits are also offered. The most common sweets made laddus and payasam.Great indeed are his many Leelas and the way in which he charms one and all. Several sages and seers have paid homage to him. Narada, Sri Kulashekara Azhwar, Andal, Tirumangai Azhawar, Nammazhwar have sung glorious verses in praise of Lord Krishna who embodies Shudda Satvam. The Bhagavad Gita coming from the Lord is the absolute truth which has withstood the test of time and has formed the basis and inspiration for many Acharyas and Azhwars. The life and message of Sri Krishna is the most stirring saga of one of the greatest saviours and propounders of Dharma. Born in the dungeons of Kansa who was out to kill him at the very moment of his birth, Sri Krishna’s life is replete with many such mortal dangers which he successfully triumphs over. He was the unchallenged hero of his times both in terms of his bodily prowess and his intellectual brilliance.Sri Krishna Jayanti, therefore, signifies not merely the birth of a great and Divine Teacher of mankind in some distant past but the lighting of the spark of the Divine Power in every one of us, which spurs us on to play our dynamic part in this world of practical and hard realities with a sense of high spiritual purpose. Krishna represents the total power of attraction (Aakarshna Shakti) like a magnet of infinite rise. Hence Krishna is the source of joy. The cultural aspects are represented by the traditionally dressed devotees. The raas or dance is also done with devotees taking part with spiritual fervor. Sri Krishna who manifests all levels of joy, is also the source of spiritual joy, which overrides mental or emotional joy, just as emotional joy overrides physical joy. If all the three are integrated and interdependent, then the observance of the festival takes on the full meaning of Sri Krishnaarpanamastu – let everything be offered to Sri Krishna..........

Fagu poornima

Fagu pornima helds on falgun month of nepal. In that day held a holi which celebrated by Hindu religion. This is the Festival of colours. In that day all person are so happy and play holi by colours with their friends. In believing case of Hindu Granth, Prahlad who was the son of Hirinkshyap demon. Prahlad killed evil Holika in that day of full poornima. Who was the sister of that demon. So according to this case holi celebrated at that day happily. In that day all people eat sweet, meat and difference kind of foods. Many people sacrifice agoat, pig, hen, etc. to their believing God for happiness life in their life. in that day, Many people drink alcohol, whisky, bhang, etc. In nepal and india all people celebrate this festival. People of Nepal with Hindu religion celebrated Holi or the Fagu Purnima, the festival of color (and these days dirty water as well) with full enthusiasm. People in Kathmandu enjoyed the festival totally forgetting that Comrade Maoists are blocking them inside the valley from today. Yes there something historical background behind this festival but in the modern days, throwing colors and colored water has become a kind of “sex-war”, if I can use this term here, between the young folks. I could see boys and girls targeting the water-filled balloon each other.The nasty thing about this is that girls are in the sufferers’ end. Boys start attacking them with balloons days ahead of the festival day. We saw that yesterday and the day before yesterday when newspapers in Kathmandu published boys harassing girls walking on the streets by throwing water and balloons on them. Okay, given the chance, girls are also not very much different. They too mercilessly attack boys walking alone on the streets. We can hardly see boys attacking boys with balloons. That is why Holi is becoming a different kind of festival. “Look, look, look,” a colleague in my office was saying the other day pointing out small boys who were throwing balloons to girls of their age. “Even in this age, they know its about throwing balloons over girls.”

Guru poornima

Hindus attach paramount importance to spiritual gurus. Gurus are often equated with God and always regarded as a link between the individual and the Immortal. Just as the moon shines by reflecting the light of the sun, and glorifies it, all disciples can dazzle like the moon by gaining from their Gurus. The full moon day in the Hindu month of Ashad (July-August) is observed as the auspicious day of Guru Purnima, a day sacred to the memory of the great sage Vyasa. All Hindus are indebted to this ancient saint who edited the four Vedas, wrote the 18 Puranas, the Mahabharata and the Srimad Bhagavata. Vyasa even taught Dattatreya, who is regarded as the Guru of Gurus.On this day, all spiritual aspirants and devotees worship Vyasa in honor of his divine personage and all disciples perform a 'puja' of their respective spiritual preceptor or 'Gurudevs'. This day is of deep significance to the farmers, for it heralds the setting in of the much-needed rains, as the advent of cool showers usher in fresh life in the fields. It is a good time to begin your spiritual lessons. Traditionally, spiritual seekers commence to intensify their spiritual 'sadhana' from this day. The period 'Chaturmas' ("four months") begins from this day. In the past, wandering spiritual masters and their disciples used to settle down at a place to study and discourse on the Brahma Sutras composed by Vyasa, and engage themselves in Vedantic discussions. The Role of the Guru:.Swami Sivananda asks: "Do you realize now the sacred significance and the supreme importance of the Guru's role in the evolution of man? It was not without reason that the India of the past carefully tended and kept alive the lamp of Guru-Tattva. It is therefore not without reason that India, year after year, age after age, commemorates anew this ancient concept of the Guru, adores it and pays homage to it again and again, and thereby re-affirms its belief and allegiance to it. For, the true Indian knows that the Guru is the only guarantee for the individual to transcend the bondage of sorrow and death, and experience the Consciousness of the Reality."

Bhai Dooj

Diwali, the vibrant festival of lights, brings with it a chance to revive relationships. The fifth day of the five-day festival is especially dedicated to honor the unique bond between brother and sister. Known as Bhai Dooj or Bhaiya Duj, it falls on the second day after Diwali, that is, on 'Shukla Paksha Dwitiya' in the Hindi month of 'Kartik'. Thus, Bhayya Duj is the festival that marks the end of Diwali celebrations. This festival is popular in different regions with different names, such as 'Bhai-Dooj' in north India, 'Bhav-Bij' in Maharashtra, 'Bhai-Phota' in Bengal and 'Bhai-Teeka' in Nepal. Read on to know more about Bhai Duj.Like the other four days of Diwali, Bhai Duj finds its roots in mythology. According to the legends, Lord Yamraj, the God of Death, visited his sister Yamuna on the 'Shukla Paksha Dwitiya' day in the Hindi month of 'Kartik'. He was given a hearty welcome by his sister, when he visited her home. On his arrival, she performed aarti, applied tilak on his forehead and adorned his neck with a beautiful garland. She cooked delicious dishes and prepared sweets for him. Touched by her heartfelt welcome, Yamraj bestowed presents upon her and showered blessings on her. He gave her a boon that every time a brother visits his sister on this day, he would be prospered with health and wealth. This is why Bhayya Duj is also known as 'Yam-Dwitiya'. One more story is associated with the celebrations of Bhai Duj. According to the story, after Bhagwaan Mahavir attained 'Nirvana', his brother Raja Nandi-Vardhan became very sad. He missed Bhagwaan Mahavir very badly. At that moment, his sister Sudarshana comforted him. Since then, the women have been revered during this festival, by their brothers. Therefore, Bhai Duj is not only significant for the people following Hinduism, but also important for the Buddhists of India. By celebrating Bhai Duj, they put an end to the celebration of the Nirvana of Lord Mahavir.Bhaiya Duj Celebrations On the auspicious day of Bhaiya-Dooj, brothers and sisters get up early in the morning and get ready for the day. On the arrival of their brothers, the sisters perform 'aarti' (of their brothers) and apply a beautiful 'Tilak' or 'Teeka' on their forehead. The sisters they sweeten the mouth of their brother, with mouth-watering eatables, such as ladoo. Thereafter, the brothers and sisters exchange gifts with each other. On the auspicious day of 'Yam-Dwitiya', the people of 'Kayastha' community of Hindus celebrate the holy function of worshipping Lord Chitragupta, the God who maintains the records of life and death of the living beings. The 'Kayastha' community also worships the pen, paper and ink on this day, in the honor of Lord Chitragupta.

Maha Navaratri

Navratri, the Festival of Nine Nights, is celebrated in honor of goddesses Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati. The festival is celebrated for nine nights every year in the Hindu month of Ashvin (September-October) although as the dates of the festival are according to the Hindu calendar (which is based on the Moon), the festival may be held for a day more or a day less depending on the calendar. It coincides with the end of the rainy season. This season is considered to be an auspicious one as it is generally associated with the sowing of seeds, and watching new seeds sprout - a sign of prosperity and abundance. Most people consider it the best time of the year to undertake or start new ventures.
This celebration in honour of the goddess, the mother of the world, begins on the first day of Ashvin, and goes on for nine days. The goddess is the personification of Power, or “Shakti”. She is known by many names: “Kali”, “Laxmi”, “Sarasvati”, “Chandi-ka”, “Durga”, “Bhavani”, “Ambika”, “Ashtabhuja” (eight hands). Her main task is to punish the wicked. She is engaged in war, and weapons are in her hands (four, eight, eighteen...) She is sitting on a lion. Her weapons are the “shul” (pike), “chakra” (wheel), “parshu” (axe) and “talvar” (sword). Kali is known as “Mahisha-surmardini”, the slayer of the demon Mahishasur. The fight against the demon begins on the first day until he is defeated on the ninth day . A different form of the Mother Goddess is worshipped on each day. These nine days are divided and devoted to the Trinity of God worshipped in a female form - three days for Durga (Goddess of Valor) three days for Lakshmi (Goddess of Wealth) and three days for Saraswati (Goddess of Knowledge and Art).
1st - 3rd day of Navratri On the first day of the Navaratras, a small bed of mud is prepared in the puja room of the house and barley seeds are sown on it. On the tenth day, the shoots are about 3 - 5 inches in length. After the puja, these seedlings are pulled out and given to devotees as a blessing from god. These initial days are dedicated to Durga Maa, the Goddess of power and energy. Her various manifestations, Kumari, Parvati and Kali are all worshipped during these days.4th - 6th day of Navratri During these days, Lakshmi Maa, the Goddess of peace and prosperity is worshipped. On the fifth day which is known as Lalita Panchami, it is traditional, to gather and display all literature available in the house, light a lamp or 'diya' to invoke Saraswati Maa, the Goddess of knowledge and art. 7th - 8th day of Navratri These final days belong to Saraswati Maa who is worshipped to acquire the spiritual knowledge. This in turn will free us from all earthly bondage. But on the 8th day of this colourful festival, yagna (holy fire) is performed. Ghee (clarified butter), kheer (rice pudding) and sesame seeds form the holy offering to Goddess Durga Maa.
II Navratri : The Festival of Nine Nights II
Navratri, the Festival of Nine Nights, is celebrated in honor of goddesses Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati. The festival is celebrated for nine nights every year in the Hindu month of Ashvin (September-October) although as the dates of the festival are according to the Hindu calendar (which is based on the Moon), the festival may be held for a day more or a day less depending on the calendar. It coincides with the end of the rainy season. This season is considered to be an auspicious one as it is generally associated with the sowing of seeds, and watching new seeds sprout - a sign of prosperity and abundance. Most people consider it the best time of the year to undertake or start new ventures. This celebration in honour of the goddess, the mother of the world, begins on the first day of Ashvin, and goes on for nine days. The goddess is the personification of Power, or “Shakti”. She is known by many names: “Kali”, “Laxmi”, “Sarasvati”, “Chandi-ka”, “Durga”, “Bhavani”, “Ambika”, “Ashtabhuja” (eight hands). Her main task is to punish the wicked. She is engaged in war, and weapons are in her hands (four, eight, eighteen...) She is sitting on a lion. Her weapons are the “shul” (pike), “chakra” (wheel), “parshu” (axe) and “talvar” (sword). Kali is known as “Mahisha-surmardini”, the slayer of the demon Mahishasur. The fight against the demon begins on the first day until he is defeated on the ninth day
Worshipping of Different Goddess :
A different form of the Mother Goddess is worshipped on each day. These nine days are divided and devoted to the Trinity of God worshipped in a female form - three days for Durga (Goddess of Valor) three days for Lakshmi (Goddess of Wealth) and three days for Saraswati (Goddess of Knowledge and Art).
1st - 3rd day of Navratri On the first day of the Navaratras, a small bed of mud is prepared in the puja room of the house and barley seeds are sown on it. On the tenth day, the shoots are about 3 - 5 inches in length. After the puja, these seedlings are pulled out and given to devotees as a blessing from god. These initial days are dedicated to Durga Maa, the Goddess of power and energy. Her various manifestations, Kumari, Parvati and Kali are all worshipped during these days.4th - 6th day of Navratri During these days, Lakshmi Maa, the Goddess of peace and prosperity is worshipped. On the fifth day which is known as Lalita Panchami, it is traditional, to gather and display all literature available in the house, light a lamp or 'diya' to invoke Saraswati Maa, the Goddess of knowledge and art. 7th - 8th day of Navratri These final days belong to Saraswati Maa who is worshipped to acquire the spiritual knowledge. This in turn will free us from all earthly bondage. But on the 8th day of this colourful festival, yagna (holy fire) is performed. Ghee (clarified butter), kheer (rice pudding) and sesame seeds form the holy offering to Goddess Durga Maa.
A Universal Festival :
All Hindus celebrate this festival at the same time in different ways in different parts of India.
In the northern part of the country, the first nine days of this festival, calledNavaratri, is commonly observed as a time for rigorous fast, followed by celebrations on the tenth day.
People in western India, especially in Gujarat, spend the nine nights of Navratri (nav = nine; ratri = night) in song, dance and merriment. Garba is a graceful form of dance, wherein women dressed in exquisitely embroidered choli, ghagra and bandhani dupattas, dance gracefully in circles around a pot containing a lamp. In eastern India, especially in Bengal, the Durga Puja is the principal festival during Navratri. It is celebrated with gaiety and devotion through public ceremonies of “Sarbojanin Puja” or community worship. Huge decorative temporary structures called “pandals” are constructed to house these grand prayer services, followed by mass feeding, and cultural functions. The earthen icons of Goddess Durga, accompanied by those of , Saraswati,Ganesha and Kartikya, are taken out on the tenth day in a triumphal procession to the nearby river, where they are ceremonially immersed. Although, the universal nature of the festival is often found to transcend regional influences and local culture, the Garba Dance of Gujarat, Ramlila of Varanasi, Dusshera of Mysore, and Durga Puja of Bengal need special mention.
Rituals and Celebrations :
The festival of the nine nights is in honour of the goddess, the Divine Power. On the first night the “ghatsthapana” takes place. A vessel of water called “kalash” is put before the image of the goddess, while Vedic verses are recited. During nine days the image of the goddess and the “kalash” must not be touched. This must be accompanied by fasting, or with only one meal a day. An oil lamp must be kept burning throughout. This lamp is called “nandadip”. Every day a garland of fresh flowers is tied before the goddess. Near the water vessel some mud is spread and grains are sown. The grains sprout during the nine days. On Dasara day the bunch of tender plants is put on the clothes. During these nine days the holy book “Durga Saptashati” is read. This book contains the exploits of the goddess. Every day special food is prepared for the goddess. Brahmins, married women and young girls are invited for dinner. At night “arti” is celebrated with great solemnity. In some places it was customary to offer the sacrifice of either a male buffalo, or a goat or a pig. Mahaastami The day begins with a recital of Sanskrit hymns of devotees,they offer anjali to the goddess. Kumari Puja or the worship of little girls as the mother goddess is a special part of the rituals observed in a number of traditional and household pujas. Mahanavami The festival of Navratri culminates in Mahanavami. On this day Kanya Puja is performed. Nine young girls representing the nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshiped. Their feets are washed as a mark of respect for the Goddess and then they are offered food mainly consisting kala chana, halwa and poori. Then after new clothes or gifts by the worshiper. This ritual is performed in most parts of the country.DashamiAfter the three days of Puja, in Dashami , in the last day, a tearful farewell is offered to the Goddess. Most of the community pujas postpone the farewell as long as possible and arrange a grand send-off. The images are carried in processions around the locality and finally is immersed in a nearby river or lake. Vijaya Dashami is an event celebrated all over the country.

Woman Day of Nepal

In nepal, woman has no further power for their life. woman has no more education for to do work. Nepal is divided in to three parts now. These are Terai, Pahad, Himal. In nepal no good oppurtunity for girls in any region. They want to study but their guardians do not ordered them for study. Nepal is very poor country also. Government cannot work in anysides causes of poverty. So the women's right is low in nepal. In Nepal, not many women have the opportunity or resources to further their education or find work in the technology industry. they have no good technology for work. In kathamandu valley, there is some right for woman given them by their guardains for study but in terai and himal not more. They have not information about education of gils but they give order to study their sons for do any work in any how. They have no more technical education. They only know how to plough the field and how to get fodd only not for education. No more girls are educated in any region. Their parents married them in low age to live in husband home. In society, They know that daughter goes in other home so they do not need for futher education. They do not want to give more education to their daughter. They think that daughters can't earn for them so they do not need education. They only for household work. Women also can do a good work for her nation. Just like Tenjing sherpa, Florence Nightingle, Bhrikuti, Sita, Madam Curie, etc. they are woman who done good work for his nation. In this way all woman can do their good work in our society, or country. But woman has no power in nepal.

Rakshya Bandhan

Rakshya Bandhan is famous festival of Nepal. This festival is celebrated by brother and sister. This culture is for Hindu culture in nepal and India. This celebration is same or less in this culture. Celebrating type is different in different region. In this festival sister bless to her brother a long life to live. Sister tied a Rakhi to their brother hand. She also worship their brother to God by using Tilak, Dhoop, Sweets, etc. The traditions of giving a gifts and present is also an important for this celebration. Traditional "Tilak" powder on the forehead of the brother is put and brother blesses their sister. In that present, sister give a gift to their brother. Sometimes sister also demand a gift from brother for herself. Brother give gift after tied a Rakhi. Gift says that their love is good presentation in their life. This also like a token of Love. Sister treat a brother good in good way. By the way, this called a love between brother and sister. Rakhi celebrate most part of nepal. It also make strengthness between general society. Celebration of festivals creates a feeling of unity and belongingness in the minds of the people involved to it.

MahaShivratri

Maha Shivaratri is celebrated with great devotion and religious fervor by Hindus, in honor of Lord Shiva, one of the Hindu Gods forming the Trinity. The festival falls on the moonless, 14th night of the new moon in the Hindu month of Phalgun (in the month of February - March, according to English Calendar). On the festival of Maha Shivaratri, devotees observe day and night fast and worship Shiva Lingam, to appease Lord Shiva. Many interesting legends have been related to the festival of Maha Shivaratri, explaining the reason behind its celebrations as well as its significance.According to one of the most popular legends, Shivaratri is the wedding day of Lord Shiva and Parvati. It is also believed that Lord Shiva performed ‘Tandava’, the dance of the primal creation, preservation and destruction on this auspicious night of Shivaratri. According to another popular legend, described in Linga Purana, it was on Shivaratri that Lord Shiva manifested himself in the form of a Linga for the first time. Since then, the day is considered to be extremely auspicious by the devotees of Shiva and they celebrate it as Maha Shivaratri - the grand night of Shiva. Shiva devotees observe strict fast on Maha Shivaratri, with many people having only fruits and milk and some not even consuming a drop of water. Worshippers dutifully follow all the traditions and customs related to Shivaratri festival, as they strongly believe that sincere worship of Lord Shiva, on the auspicious day, releases a person of his sins and also liberates him from the cycle of birth and death. As Shiva is regarded as the ideal husband, unmarried women pray for a husband like Him, on Shivaratri. On the other hand, married women pray for the well being of their husbands, on this auspicious day. On Maha Shivratri, devotees wake up early in the morning and take a bath, if possible in river Ganga. After wearing fresh clothes, they visit the nearest Shiva temple, to give ritual bath to the Shiva Lingum (with milk, honey, water etc). The worship continues the whole day and whole night. Jaagran (nightlong vigil) might also be observed in Lord Shiva temples, where a large number of devotees sing hymns and devotional songs, in praise of Lord Shiva. In the morning,g devotees break their fast by partaking the prasad offered to Lord Shiva, after the aarti, the night before.According to Hindu mythology, Shivaratri or 'Shiva's Great Night' symbolizes the wedding day of Lord Shiva and Parvati. Many however, believe, Shivaratri is the night when Lord Shiva performed the Tandava Nritya - the dance of primordial creation, preservation and destruction. Celebrating the festival in a customary manner, devotees give a ritual bath to the Lingam with the panchagavya - milk, sour milk, urine, butter and dung. Celebrations of Shivaratri Festival mainly take place at night. Devotees of Lord Shiva throng Shiva temples across the country and spend ‘the Night of Lord Shiva’ by chanting verses and hymns in praise of the Lord. The festival holds special meaning for the ladies. They pray to Goddess Parvati also called 'Gaura', the giver of 'suhag' for good husbands, marital bliss and a long and prosperous married life.

Christmas Day

The Birth of Christ
And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace, good will toward men.And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.Christmas is always observed on December 25th. Christmas is a Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. Decorating houses and yards with lights, putting up Christmas trees, giving gifts, and sending greeting cards have become traditions even for many non-Christian Americans. In the third century, efforts were made to find out the date of the Nativity, but only in the year 336 was the date of the December 25 festival set in commemoration of Jesus' birth. Pope Julius formally selected December 25 as the day of Christmas in 349 A.D. Roman Catholics, Lutherans, members of the Dutch Reformed and Anglican churches, and those of the German sects were most responsible for establishing Christmas traditions in America. Christmas customs spread with the westward expansion of the United States and by the late 1800s had become firmly entrenched in American society. The Christmas Tree is a German tradition, started as early as 700 A.D. In the 1800s the tradition of a Christmas tree was widespread in Germany, then moved to England and then to America through Pennsylvanian German immigrants. In Victorian times, people had already started decorating trees with candies and cakes hung with ribbon. In 1880, Woolworths first sold manufactured Christmas tree ornaments, and they caught on very quickly. Martin Luther, in the 16th century, is credited as being the first person to put candles on a tree, and the first electrically lighted Christmas tree appeared in 1882. In 1923, Calvin Coolidge ceremoniously lit the first outdoor tree at the White House. Santa Claus started with a real person, Saint Nicholas, a minor saint from the fourth century. Nicholas' reputation for generosity and kindness gave rise to legends of miracles he performed for the poor and unhappy. In the Middle Ages, devotion to Nicholas extended to all parts of Europe, but eventually faded in all the Protestant countries of Europe except Holland, where his legend persisted as Sinterklaas (a Dutch variant of the name Saint Nicholas). Dutch colonists took this tradition with them to New Amsterdam (now New York City) in the 17th century. Sinterklaas was adopted by the country's English-speaking majority under the name Santa Claus, and his legend of a kindly old man was united with old Nordic folktales of a magician who punished naughty children and rewarded good children with presents.

Anniversay Day

In the Commonwealth realms, one can receive a message from the monarch for 60th, 65th, and 70th wedding anniversaries, and any wedding anniversary after that. This is done by applying to Buckingham Palace in the United Kingdom, or to the Governor-General's office in the other Commonwealth realms. In Canada, one can also receive a message from the Governor General for 50th and 55th anniversaries. The situation is similar in Australia, where one can receive a letter of congratulations from the Governor-General on the 50th and all subsequent wedding anniversaries; the Prime Minister, the federal Opposition leader, local members of parliament (both state and federal), and state Governors may also send salutations for the same anniversariesIn the United States, one can receive a greeting from the President for any wedding anniversary on or after the 50thRoman Catholics may apply for a Papal blessing through their local diocese for wedding anniversaries of a special nature (25th, 50th, 60th, etc.). Mumbai: "Indian male - hapless animal"; "women empowered men unpowered"; "husband not an ATM machine", "options for Indian male - be henpecked or handcuffed"... these are some of the messages flashed on placards by members of various organisations who had gathered at Azad Maidan on the occasion of International Men's Day on Thursday, to raise their voice against the perceived harassment of men at the hands of the Indian judicial system.
Members of the Indian Family Foundation (IFF), Protect Indian Family Foundation, Child’s Right and Family welfare and the Save Indian Family Movement held a dharna to create awareness about the problems faced by men. A bike rally was also held, with many members from Pune participating.The men particularly targeted section 498A, which they said is often misused by women to get husbands arrested for harassment. They shouted slogans against the National Commission for Women (NCW) and the misuse of the Domestic Violence Act, and demanded a separate ministry for men.According to Bunty Jain, founder member, IFF, “Most cases where section 498A is invoked turn out to be false. Baseless allegations are made against men to extort money from them, and the law and the police support women, without making complete inquiries. The laws are wife-centric, not even woman-centric, because the husband’s mother or sister is not taken into account,” he said.Jain, who calls himself a victim, had to pay a large sum of money to his wife as alimony and is now fighting the domestic violence case that his wife filed against him. “The Domestic Violence Act should be made gender-neutral,” he said.Rakesh Jaiswal, who was also part of the dharna, feels that the time has now come for men to fight for gender parity. His wife, who left him two years ago, slapped a section 498A dowry harassment case against him and demanded a huge sum as alimony.” She earns about Rs2.5 lakh per annum, but I still have to pay her alimony. How is this fair?” he asked.Another major concern is child custody, as the men feel it is always tougher for the father to be able to get custody of children. Many women were also part of dharna, most of them the mothers of “harassed” husbands. Borivli resident Kamal Kapadia, 59, claimed that her daughter-in-law made 23 allegations against her, all of them false. The names of some anniversaries provide guidance for appropriate or traditional gifts for the spouses to give each other or if there is a party these can be brought by the guests or influence the theme or decoration. These gifts vary in different countries but some years have well-established connections which are now common to most nations, they are - 5th Wooden, 10th Tin, 15th Crystal, 20th China, 25th Silver, 30th Pearl, 40th Ruby, 50th Golden, 60th Diamond. The tradition originated in medieval Germany where if a married couple lived to celebrate the twenty fifth anniversary of their wedding, the wife was presented by her friends and neighbours with a silver wreath, partly to congratulate them for the good fortune that had prolonged the lives of the couple for so many years and partly in recognition of the fact they must have enjoyed a fairly harmonious relationship, on celebration of the fiftieth the wife received a wreath of gold. These anniversaries were known as the silver wedding-day and the golden wedding-day. Over time the number of symbols has expanded and the German tradition was to assign gifts which had direct connections with each stage of married life. The symbols may change over time, for example in the United Kingdom Diamond was a well known symbol for the 75th Anniversary but this changed to the now more common 60th anniversary after Queen Victoria's 60 years on the throne was widely marked as her 'Diamond Jubilee'.

Heart Day

The World Heart Federation, is a nongovernmental organization based in Geneva, Switzerland dedicated to the prevention and control of heart disease and stroke, with a focus on low- and middle-income countries. It comprises 195 member societies of cardiology and heart foundations from over 100 countries covering the regions of Asia-Pacific, Europe, East Mediterranean, the Americas and AfricaThe World Heart Federation, is a nongovernmental organization based in Geneva, Switzerland dedicated to the prevention and control of heart disease and stroke, with a focus on low- and middle-income countries. It comprises 195 member societies of cardiology and heart foundations from over 100 countries covering the regions of Asia-Pacific, Europe, East Mediterranean, the Americas and Africa. World Heart Day, organized by the World Heart Federation and its members and co-sponsored by the World Health Organization (WHO), UNESCO and United Nations Sport for Development and Peace initiative, is the World Heart Federation's most important advocacy event and aims to increase public awareness and promote preventative measures to reduce cardiovascular disease and stroke. Begun in 1999 with the vision that all World Heart Federation members could collectively help to curb the global pandemic of cardiovascular disease, which claims some 17.5 million lives world-wide annually, World Heart Day is now celebrated by members and non-members alike in more than 100 countries around the world. World Heart Day is celebrated on the last Sunday in September every year (September 27 in 2009). This system was chosen so that it always falls on a day when many individuals and families are free to attend the organized activities. Many events take place on the day itself, or in the weeks leading up to or just following World Heart Day. World Heart Federation members, comprising 196 cardiology societies and heart foundations in more than 100 countries, organize activities for World Heart Day. A large number of non-members, whether hospitals, cardiac clinics, universities, schools, individuals and a number of other organizations, also join in by organizing events. 'Women and Cardiovascular Disease'- The World Heart Federation is committed to saving the lives of both men and women, and acknowledges that women's cardiovascular health is an under-recognized aspect of cardiovascular care worldwide. Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are among the foremost health challenges for women, just as they are for men. Women are known to have a different risk profile compared with men, and this has implications for gender differences in risk definition, possible differences in intervention targets and risk modification. Women also have difficulties with access to care.The World Heart Federation develops international activities to raise public awareness about the CVD and stroke issue among women. 'Children and Youth' A healthy heart is vital for living life to the full, regardless of age and gender. Unhealthy diets, physical inactivity and smoking are the leading causes of heart disease and stroke. These unhealthy lifestyles are increasingly common among children and teenagers and are being adopted at an alarmingly early age. WHF creates awareness all over the world, to show how important it is for children and youths to have a healthy heart for life.

Saraswati Puja

Saraswati Puja is performed on the 5th day of Magha month of Vedic Calendar (also known as Basant Panchami).In several parts of India, generally states to the south, Saraswati Poojas are conducted during Navaratri – a 9 day long festival celebrating the power of the feminine aspect of divinity or shakti. Navratri is celebrated in all goddess-temples of India, with especially great pomp and splendor in south and east India. The last three days of Navaratri starting from Mahalaya Amavasya (the New Moon day) are dedicated to the goddess.On the ninth day of Navaratri (Mahanavami), especially Sharad Navaratri celebrated by Durga Puja, books and all musical instruments are ceremoniously kept near the gods early at dawn and worshipped with special prayers. No studies or any performance of arts is carried out, as it is considered that the Goddess herself is blessing the books and the instruments. The festival is concluded on the tenth day of Navaratri (Vijaya Dashami) and the goddess is worshipped again before the books and the musical instruments are removed. It is customary to study on this day, which is called Vidyarambham (literally, Commencement of Knowledge). All students are traditionally required to study a part of all that they have learn till that day, and also to start the study of something new on the same day. Gurus (preceptors) are worshipped on this day as embodiments of Saraswati. In major part of India this Navratri is associated with goddess Durga, but in southern India is celebrated as Saraswati Puja.
Temples
Although Saraswati temples are rare, major temples for the goddess are located in Sarala temple of Jhankad in Cuttack district of Orissa,Basara Town (Andhra Pradesh), Shringeri, Pushkar, Panachikkad, Koothanur near Thiruvarur and Sharada Peeth in India and Bhadrakali, Gairidhara and Handigaon in Nepal also have Saraswati temples of historical and/or popular significance.A very small temple for Saraswathi Amman is located opposite to the famous Shiva temple Nellaiappar Temple, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India which is the only other Saraswathi Amman Temple in Tamil Nadu.The Goddess Saraswati is often depicted as a beautiful, light-skinned woman dressed in pure white often seated on a white Nelumbo nucifera lotus (although Her actual vahana is believed to be a swan), which symbolizes that she is founded in the experience of the Absolute Truth. Thus, she not only has the knowledge but also the experience of the Highest Reality. She is mainly associated with the color white, which signifies the purity of true knowledge. Occasionally, however, she is also associated with the colour yellow, the colour of the flowers of the mustard plant that bloom at the time of her festival in the spring. She is not adorned heavily with jewels and gold, unlike the goddess Lakshmi, but is dressed modestly — perhaps representing her preference of knowledge over worldly material things. She is generally shown to have four arms, which represent the four aspects of human personality in learning: mind, intellect, alertness, and ego. Alternatively, these four arms also represent the 4 Vedas, the primary sacred books for Hindus.

Love Day

It may be easy to look around our world today and see the appearance of chaos, difficulty and strife. Yet, when we come from an open heart, we can also see our opportunity to love all things into balance, joy, harmony and peace. This planet does not need more visions of desperation, fear, doubt and hate - it requires an abundance of love, especially unconditional love, to heal and restore the beauty contained in every moment. This becomes the easier path once we take the first step and begin to share our love.When we bring unconditional love back into our personal, professional, community and family lives, we begin the journey of restoring wholeness and happiness to our planetary adventure. Of course it takes determined effort on our part as the old ways of being are quick to return in our mind. However, this effort to love is rewarded with a new perspective on everything and all life benefits as a result.Here at The Love Foundation, whether through Global Love Day each May 1st, our annual Art, Essay and Poetry Invitational, the Love Ambassador or Act of Love designations, and our newest program, Loving Earth, each of these opportunities are simply ways to keep the understanding of love fresh in our collective hearts and minds. Nine years ago we started this nonprofit organization as a way to inspire and remind people of the simple power of loving unconditionally. In just these few years, we have witnessed a growing worldwide momentum embracing this opportunity to bring the awareness of unconditional love back into our daily lives. We look forward to expanding this dialogue and welcome you to walk this journey of unconditional love in your part of the world.Latest Message from TLF FounderMaintaining harmony under all circumstances is the key to navigating through life. By remaining calm and composed in each moment, we keep life in perspective. We are able to connect with the bigger picture of potential while sorting out appropriate courses of action to address any situation before us. We can release our attachments and reactions knowing that they are only a small part of the experience. Harmony reveals the presence of love.This excerpt was created in the absence of an abstract. Duodenal atresia is rapidly fatal unless diagnosed promptly and treated surgically without delay. The radiological features are usually diagnostic. A plain erect abdominal X ray of the new-born infant shows two large fluid levels, one in the stomach, the other in the distended duodenum proximal to the atretic segment. No intestinal gas shadows are seen distal to the obstruction. This gives the classical "double bubble" appearance. Duodenal atresia is one of the rarer causes of hydramnios. If it could be diagnosed antenatally by ultrasound and the diagnosis confirmed by conventional radiography immediately after birth, it would be possible to relieve the obstruction surgically before electrolyte disturbances adversely affect the prognosis. The following case report describes the ultrasound B-scan appearances of duodenal atresia in utero.

Father's Day

Its that special day for the special man, and an wonderful opportunity to make him feel the same. On this Day, not only can you wish your Dad, but also anyone who is a Dad. So Scroll down, and get on with the celebrations! We have Personalized Gifts for father's Day, Wallpapers, Greetings, Poems, Gift-Ideas, Recipes, and even a place to post your messages for the world to see. Cheers! Father's Day is celebrated in the 3rd Sunday in June. The idea for creating a day for children to honor their fathers began in Spokane, Washington. A woman by the name of Sonora Smart Dodd thought of the idea for Father's Day while listening to a Mother's Day sermon in 1909. Having been raised by her father, Henry Jackson Smart, after her mother died, Sonora wanted her father to know how special he was to her. It was her father that made all the parental sacrifices and was, in the eyes of his daughter, a courageous, selfless, and loving man. Sonora's father was born in June, so she chose to hold the first Father's Day celebration in Spokane, Washington on the 19th of June, 1910.. It would be interesting to know how Father's Day came into practice and celebrated worldwide with an equal sincerity and respect as any other significant holidays. Here's a short history on the holiday, and meaning of the different colors of roses to be worn that Day. You may even refer the page to others to share the information by clicking on the link given below.About 4,000 years ago a young boy named Elmusu wished his Babylonian father good health and a long life by carving a Father's Day message on a card made out of clay. No one knows what happened to Elmesu or his father, but the tradition of having a special day honoring fathers has continued through the years in countries across the world.The Countries, where the Catholic Church were of significant influence on the culture of the society, Father's Day is celebrated on St. Joseph's Day (March 19). However, a more secular celebration which is not associated with any religion is followed in recent times to highlight the increased diversity among people from all over the globe coexisting together in one place.Father's Day is celebrated popularly on 3rd Sunday in June in many parts of the world. The idea for creating a day for children to honor their fathers began in Spokane, Washington. A woman by the name of Sonora Smart Dodd thought of the idea for Father's Day while listening to a Mother's Day sermon in 1909. Having been raised by her father, Henry Jackson Smart, after her mother died, Sonora wanted her father to know how special he was to her. It was her father that made all the parental sacrifices and was, in the eyes of his daughter, a courageous, selfless, and loving man. Sonora's father was born in June, so she chose to hold the first Father's Day celebration in Spokane, Washington on the 19th of June, 1910.In 1924 President Calvin Coolidge proclaimed the third Sunday in June as Father's Day. President Nixon, in 1972, established a permanent national observance of Father's Day to be held on the third Sunday of June. So Father's Day was born as a token of love and gratitude that a daughter cherishes for her beloved father. Roses are the Father's Day flowers: red to be worn for a living father and white if the father has died.

Mother's Day

Mother's Day is an annual holiday that recognizes mothers, motherhood and maternal bonds in general, as well the positive contributions that they make to society. In the United States, it is celebrated on the second Sunday in May.

History
Early "Mother's Day" was mostly marked by women's peace groups. A common early activity was the meeting of groups of mothers whose sons had fought or died on opposite sides of the American Civil War.In 1868 Ann Jarvis created a committee to establish a "Mother's Friendship Day" whose purpose was "to reunite families that had been divided during the Civil War", and she wanted to expand it into an annual memorial for mothers, but she died in 1905 before the celebration became popular.In New York City, Julia Ward Howe led a "Mother's Day" anti-war observance in 1872, which was accompanied by a Mother's Day Proclamation. The observance continued in Boston for about 10 years under Howe's personal sponsorship, then died outSeveral years later, a Mother's Day observance on May 13, 1877 was held in Albion, Michigan, over a dispute related to the temperance movementAccording to local legend, Albion pioneer, Juliet Calhoun Blakeley, stepped up to complete the sermon of the Rev. Myron Daughterty, who was distraught because an anti-temperance group had forced his son and two other temperance advocates to spend the night in a saloon and become publicly drunk. In the pulpit, Blakeley called on other mothers to join her. Blakeley's two sons, both traveling salesmen, were so moved that they vowed to return each year to pay tribute to her and embarked on a campaign to urge their business contacts to do likewise. At their urging, in the early 1880s, the Methodist Episcopal Church in Albion set aside the second Sunday in May to recognize the special contributions of mothers.Frank E. Hering, President of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, made the first known public plea for "a national day to honor our mothers" in 1904In its present form, Mother's Day was established by Anna Marie Jarvis, following the death of her mother on May 9, 1905; she made the first official celebration in 1908 and then she campaigned to establish Mother's Day as a U.S. national holiday, and later as an international holiday. Originally the Andrew's Methodist Episcopal Church, the site of the original Mother's Day commemoration, where Anna handed out carnations, the International Mother's Day Shrine is now a National Historic Landmark. From there, the custom caught on—spreading eventually to 46 states. The holiday was declared officially by some states as early as 1912, beginning with West Virginia. On May 8, 1914, the U.S. Congress passed a law designating the second Sunday in May as Mother's Day and requesting a proclamation.On May 9, 1914, President Woodrow Wilson made that proclamation, declaring the first national Mother's Day, as a day for American citizens to show the flag in honor of those mothers whose sons had died in war. Carnations have come to represent Mother's Day, since they were delivered at one of its first celebrations by its founder. This also started the custom of wearing a carnation on Mother's Day.The founder, Anna Jarvis, chose the carnation because it was the favorite flower of her mother.In part due to the shortage of white carnations, and in part due to the efforts to expand the sales of more types of flowers in Mother's Day, the florists promoted wearing a red carnation if your mother was living, or a white one if she was dead; this was tirelessly promoted until it made its way into the popular observations at churches. In May 2008, the US House of Representatives voted twice on a resolution commemorating Mother's Day the first one being unanimous so that all congressmen would be on record showing support for Mother's Day.

Parents' Day

Parents' Day in the United States
In the United States, Parents' Day is held on the fourth Sunday of every July. This was established in 1994 when President Bill Clinton signed a Congressional Resolution into law for "recognizing, uplifting, and supporting the role of parents in the rearing of children."Each year a proclamation has been made, one of which by George W. Bush challenges citizens to "honor mothers and fathers and thank them for their many years of patience and selflessness. We take this opportunity also to recognize parents of adopted children and foster parents, who generously provide children with a loving family to call their own. We also recognize the parents who serve in our Armed Forces and the parents of the brave men and women wearing our Nation's uniform. The members of our Armed Forces are defending our freedom with dignity and honor, and America is grateful for the sacrifices that they and their families make in the name of duty.

Single Parents Day
In the United States, Janice (Zisa) Moglen wrote an article in 1984 for the idea to "create a Single Parents Day to honor those parents who combine breadwinning with nurturing singlehandedly". In collaboration with Parents Without Partners petitions were sent to individual states to have March 21 (the start of Parents Without Partners) recognized as Single Parents' Day.Colorado Governor Roy Romer proclaimed March 21 as Single Parents Day in 1993. The Coalition for Single Parents Day is working to create a national Single Parents Day on the third Sunday in March.Parents Day is celebrated on the fourth Sunday of July. The motive behind its celebration is to show our gratitude towards our parents, who forebear pain and discomfort in bringing us up to adulthood. The occasion is celebrated in various ways and includes writing of a parents' day speech, where children show their love and gratitude towards their parents, through words. Parents' Day speech, if effective, could be mesmerizing and if ineffective, could create misunderstanding too. Writing a good parents' day speech is definitely an art.Why Parents' Day SpeechUsually people do not care first to celebrate Parents' Day as special day. However, when you have decided to celebrate it, show your best interest into it. You can show your love and respect to your parents through various methods, which includes gifting of greeting cards, bouquet and treating them to a lunch/dinner on that day (that does not mean you do not treat them well rest of the year), taking them for shopping and last, but not least, is standing tall and giving a speech on Parents' Day.Parents' Day speech is a special way to show that you honor your parents. There cannot be a better way to show your love and respect to your parents, than through words. Words are the strongest and dense communicator. They are the tools with which you carve a niche in the heart of your parents on the Parents' Day. Here you got to be cautious of your words and selection of worlds should be of high standard and full of life and vigor.

CHILDREN"S DAY

The International Children's Day had its origin in Turkey in 1920 (April 23, 1920) and later in the World Conference for the Well-being of Children in Geneva, Switzerland in 1925. It is not clear as to why June 1 was chosen as the International Children's Day: one theory has it that the Chinese consul-general in San Francisco (USA) gathered a number of Chinese orphans to celebrate the Dragon Boat Festival in 1925, which happened to be on June 1 that year, and also coincided with the conference in Geneva.Children's Day was first celebrated worldwide in October 1955, under the sponsorship of International Union for Child Welfare in Geneva. The idea of a Universal Children's Day was mooted by Rubab Mansoor grade 8 and adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1954. Moazzem and Abass helped and contributed a lot in this. Universal Children's Day takes place on November 20 annually. First proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1954, it was established to encourage all countries to institute a day, firstly to promote mutual exchange and understanding among children and secondly to initiate action to benefit and promote the welfare of the world's children. It was also chosen as the day to celebrate childhood.November 20, is also the anniversary of the day when the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1959. The Convention on the Rights of the Child was then signed on the same day in 1989, which has since been ratified by 191 states.Children's Day is celebrated on 1 June each year. It is usually marked with speeches on children's rights and wellbeing, children TV programs, parties, various actions involving or dedicated to children, families going out etc.2009 Universal Children's Day
To mark the 20th, 50th and 60th anniversaries of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Declaration of the Rights of the Child and the Geneva Conventions, respectively, the International Committee of the Red Cross has issued a new brochure on children and war.This brochure examines the risks faced by children caught up in armed conflict, the steps taken to address their specific needs, and the rules of law defined to protect them. Children's Day is an event celebrated on various days in many places around the world. International Children's Day is celebrated on June 1 and Universal Children's Day is on November 20.[1]Other countries celebrate a local 'children's day' on other dates. The holiday is simply set to honor children and minors. Day observations in the United States predate both Mother’s and Father’s Day. The U.S doesn't celebrate Children's Day anymore.The celebration of a special children’s Day in America dates from the 1860s and earlier.In 1856, Rev. Charles H. Leonard, D.D., then pastor of the First Universalist Church of Chelsea, Mass., set apart a Sunday for the dedication of children to the Christian life, and for the re-dedication of parents and guardians to bringing-up their children in Christian nurture. This service was first observed the second Sunday in June.The Universalist Convention at Baltimore in September 1867, passed a resolution commending churches to set apart one Sunday in each year as Children’s Day.The Methodist Episcopal Church at the Methodist Conference of 1868 recommended that second Sunday in June be annually observed as Children’s Day.The General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in 1883 designated the “the second Sabbath in June as Children’s Day Also in 1883, the National Council of Congregational Churches and nearly all the state bodies of that denomination in the United States passed resolutions commending the observance of the day. About this time many other denominations adopted similar recommendations.Chase’s Calendar of Events cites Children’s Sunday and notes that The Commonwealth of Massachusetts issues an annual proclamation for the second Sunday in June.Numerous churches and denominations currently observe the second Sunday in June including the African Methodist Episcopal Church and the Church of the Nazarene.Children & Youth Day in Hawaii started in 1994, when the Hawaii became the first Legislature to pass a law to recognize the first Sunday in October as "Children's Day." In 1997, the Legislature passed another landmark law designating the entire month of October as "Children and Youth Month."Children's Day was proclaimed by President Bill Clinton to be held on October 8, 2000. "National Child's Day" was proclaimed by President George W. Bush as June 3, 2001 and in subsequent years on the first Sunday in June.Nowhere in any of the proclamations did the President refer to the United Nations or the UN Resolution about Universal Child Day. The United States of America is one of only two countries in the world that have not ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). As of November 2007, 193 countries have ratified the Convention.In 2007, Illinois Governor Rod R. Blagojevich issued a proclamation proclaiming the second Sunday in June as Children's Day. The mayors of Aurora and Batavia, Illinois, also issued proclamations.In May 2009, International Children's Day was celebrated at the Washington DC National Harborplace Hosted by the Ariel Foundation International and the Ariana-Leilani Children's Foundation.

Nepal Culture

Nepal Culture & Religion
Culture is embedded in the high peaks of Nepal, tradition flows with its rivers, art traverses through its valleys and religion lies in the heart of its people. Nepal, in short, is a country where art, culture and religion are a part of life of the inhabitants. People celebrate every moment with aroma, adding novelty to the traditions without affecting their essence.

Art of Nepal

The art and architecture of Nepal is deeply influenced by the religion. Unique craftsmanship can be found in temples, architecture, shrines, fountains and the design of religious objects. Art and religion is so deeply interlocked that it is impossible to separate the one from the other. All art forms express both Hindu and Buddhist iconography.

Buddhism in Nepal

Buddhism, the fourth largest religion all over the world, has strong roots in Nepal. Buddhism in Nepal dates from the birth of Siddhartha Gautama himself, therefore Buddhist influences are evident on the culture of Nepal. Nepal is the meeting point for Indian and Tibetan Buddhist traditions. Culture of NepalThe culture of Nepal is a assemblage of music, architecture, religion and literature. This mountain kingdom is multi-ethic and multi-lingual. The land is rich with unique cultural groups like Tharu,Yadav, Ahir, Newars and others.

Food of Nepal

Nepalese are great foodies and their food varieties are hot, spicy and nutritious. Newari and Thakali cuisines are the original taste of Nepal. Otherwise, Nepalese style of cooking has been influenced by Indian and Tibetan cooking. Dal Bhat tarkari is the staple food of Nepal. Meat curries and monos are the hot favorites among the tourists.

Music of Nepal

The rhythm, beats, bounce of Nepali traditional folk and classical music is spiritual enough to sooth you and entertaining enough to cheer you. Music is associated with every event in Nepal, then be it birth, marriage, festivals or national events.

People of Nepal

The people of Indo-Aryan community are the original inhabitants of Nepal. No wonder their descendents form the majority even now. Other major groups in Nepal are Gurungs and Magars who live mainly in the western region; Rais, Limbus and Sunwars who live in the eastern mid hills; Sherpas, Manangpas and Lopas who live near the mountains of Everest, Annapurna and Mustang respectively.Religion in Nepal is not only a system of social coherence based on certain rituals and beliefs, rather it is the binding force that ties the mountain kingdom together. Though Nepal is famous, as the world's only Hindu Kingdom, equal respect is given to other religions as well. Buddhism is the second largest religion followed in Nepal, others being Tantrism, Islam and Christianity.

Ram navami

About Ram Navami
Sri-Ramnavami is dedicated to the memory of Lord Rama. It occurs on the ninth day (navami). The festival commemorates the birth of Rama who is remembered for his preperous and righteous reign. Ramrajya (the reign of Rama) has become synonymous with a period of peace and prosperity. Mahatma Gandhi also used this term to describe how, according to him, India should be after independ. Ramnavami occurs in the month of March. Celebrations begin with a prayer to the Sun early in the morning. At midday, when Lord Rama is supposed to have been born, a special prayer is performed. In northern India especially, an event that draws popular participation is the Ramnavami procession. The main attraction in this procession is a gaily decorated chariot in which four persons are dressed up as Rama, his brother Laxman, his queen Sita and his disciple Hanuman. The chariot is accompanied by several other persons dressed up in ancient costumes as work by Rama's solders. The procession is a gusty affair with the participants shouting praises echoing the happy days of Rama's reign. Surya - The Sun was recognised as the source of light and heat even in ancient times. The importance of the Sun was much more in the higher latitudes from where the Aryans are supposed to have migrated into India. Many royal dynasties potrayed symbols of virility like the Sun, Eagle, Lion etc. as their progenitor. Rama's dynasty considered themselves to have descended from the Sun. This could have led to the tagging on, of Rama's birthday to a festival devoted to the sun.On the face of it Sri-Ramnavmi appears to be just a festival commemorating the reign of a king who was later deified. But even behind present-day traditions there are clues which unmistakably point to the origin of Ramnavmi as lying beyond the Ramayana story.
Sri Ramnavami occurs at the beginning of summer when the sun has started moving nearer to the northern hemisphere. The Sun is considered to be the progenitor of Rama's dynasty which is called the Sun dynasty (Raghukula or Raghuvamsa, Raghu means Sun and Kula or Vamsa mean familial descendant). Rama is also known as Raghunatha, Raghupati, Raghavendra etc. That all these names begin with the prefix Raghu is also suggestive of some link with Sun-worship. The hour chosen for the observance of the lord's birth is that when the sun is overhead and is at its maximum brilliance. In some Hindu sects, prayers on Ramnavami day start not with an invocation to Rama but to Surya (sun). Again the syllable Ra is used in the word to describe the sun and brilliance in many languages. In Sanskrit, Ravi and Ravindra mean Sun.
Significantly, the ancient Egyptians termed the sun as Amon Ra or simply as "Ra". In Latin the syllable Ra is used to connote light. For example, we have Radiance which emission of light, or Radium which means any substance emitting light or brilliance. The common element is the syllable Ra which in many languages is used to derive words for describing Sun or light.
The occurrence of this syllable in most names used for Rama alongwith other clues is strongly suggestive that the festival Ramnavami antedates the R- ayana and it must have originated much before the Ramayana, as a 'Sun-festival' for invoking the Sun who was recognised as the source of light and heat even in ancient times. The importance of the Sun was much more in the higher latitudes from where the Aryans are supposed to have migrated into India. Many royal dynasties potrayed symbols of virility like the Sun, Eagle, Lion etc. as their progenitor. Rama's dynasty considered themselves to have descended from the Sun. This could have led to the tagging on, of Rama's birthday to a festival devoted to the sun.There is some link between Lord Rama and Sun Worship. The Sun is considered to be the progenitor of Rama's dynasty which is called the Sun dynasty (Raghukula or Raghuvamsa, Raghu means Sun and Kula or Vamsa mean familial descendant). Rama is also known as Raghunatha, Raghupati, Raghavendra etc. That all these names begin with the prefix Raghu is also suggestive of some link with Sun-worship. The hour chosen for the observance of the lord's birth is that when the sun is overhead and is at its maximum brilliance. Significantly, the ancient Egyptians termed the sun as Amon Ra or simply as "Ra". In Latin the syllable Ra is used to connote light. For example, we have Radiance which emission of light, or Radium which means any substance emitting light or brilliance. The common element is the syllable Ra which in many languages is used to derive words for describing Sun or light.

Children's Day

History
The International Children's Day had its origin in Turkey in 1920 (April 23, 1920) and later in the World Conference for the Well-being of Children in Geneva, Switzerland in 1925. It is not clear as to why June 1 was chosen as the International Children's Day: one theory has it that the Chinese consul-general in San Francisco (USA) gathered a number of Chinese orphans to celebrate the Dragon Boat Festival in 1925, which happened to be on June 1 that year, and also coincided with the conference in Geneva.Children's Day was first celebrated worldwide in October 1955, under the sponsorship of International Union for Child Welfare in Geneva. The idea of a Universal Children's Day was mooted by Rubab Mansoor grade 8 and adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1954. Moazzem and Abass helped and contributed a lot in this. Universal Children's Day takes place on November 20 annually. First proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1954, it was established to encourage all countries to institute a day, firstly to promote mutual exchange and understanding among children and secondly to initiate action to benefit and promote the welfare of the world's children. It was also chosen as the day to celebrate childhood.November 20, is also the anniversary of the day when the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1959. The Convention on the Rights of the Child was then signed on the same day in 1989, which has since been ratified by 191 states.Children's Day is celebrated on 1 June each year. It is usually marked with speeches on children's rights and wellbeing, children TV programs, parties, various actions involving or dedicated to children, families going out etc.

Children's day of U.S.A.

Children’s Day observations in the United States predate both Mother’s and Father’s Day. The U.S doesn't celebrate Children's Day anymore.The celebration of a special children’s Day in America dates from the 1860s and earlier.In 1856, Rev. Charles H. Leonard, D.D., then pastor of the First Universalist Church of Chelsea, Mass., set apart a Sunday for the dedication of children to the Christian life, and for the re-dedication of parents and guardians to bringing-up their children in Christian nurture. This service was first observed the second Sunday in June.The Universalist Convention at Baltimore in September 1867, passed a resolution commending churches to set apart one Sunday in each year as Children’s Day.The Methodist Episcopal Church at the Methodist Conference of 1868 recommended that second Sunday in June be annually observed as Children’s DayThe General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in 1883 designated the “the second Sabbath in June as Children’s DayAlso in 1883, the National Council of Congregational Churches and nearly all the state bodies of that denomination in the United States passed resolutions commending the observance of the day. About this time many other denominations adopted similar recommendationsChase’s Calendar of Events cites Children’s Sunday and notes that The Commonwealth of Massachusetts issues an annual proclamation for the second Sunday in June.Numerous churches and denominations currently observe the second Sunday in June including the African Methodist Episcopal Churchand the Church of the NazareneChildren & Youth Day in Hawaii started in 1994, when the Hawaii became the first Legislature to pass a law to recognize the first Sunday in October as "Children's Day." In 1997, the Legislature passed another landmark law designating the entire month of October as "Children and Youth Month."Children's Day was proclaimed by President Bill Clinton to be held on October 8, 2000."National Child's Day" was proclaimed by President George W. Bush as June 3, 2001 and in subsequent years on the first Sunday in June.Nowhere in any of the proclamations did the President refer to the United Nations or the UN Resolution about Universal Child Day. The United States of America is one of only two countries in the world that have not ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). As of November 2007, 193 countries have ratified the Convention.In 2007, Illinois Governor Rod R. Blagojevich issued a proclamation proclaiming the second Sunday in June as Children's Day. The mayors of Aurora and Batavia, Illinois, also issued proclamations.In May 2009, International Children's Day was celebrated at the Washington DC National Harborplace Hosted by the Ariel Foundation International and the Ariana-Leilani Children's Foundation.

Martyr's of Nepal

Many People had to fight for democracy; may had to undergo torture and imprisonment. many had to ose their property and many had to sacrifice their lives. Among them, Name of 4 Martyrs comes in front who sacrificed their lives for the welfare of people and bring democracy in the country. Sukra Raj Shastri Shukra Raj Joshi was born in Kthmandu in 1950 BS. His father's name ws Madhav Raj Joshi and mother is Ratna Maya. Though he was newar, he studied Sanskrit and got the degree of Shastri. It was because of his Shastri degree he was called Shukra Raj "Shastri". After his education, he became a teacher and taught in Allahabad for 4 years. he worked for Hindu Mahasabha in India. he was a writer and wrote books named Nepalko Jhalai, Satya Prakash, Sanskrit Pradeep, Satya Kalpana, Brahmasutra and Swargako Dwar. In course of getting his book printed, he had to go to Calcutta. Tehre he met Pandit Malviya, a great Indian scholar and reformer. He met Mahatman Gandhi too, on several occasions. In those days, there were some underground Nepalese leaders who were planning to overthrow the Ranas regime. Shukra Raj had contact with them. Coming to know that Shukra Raj had relations with the Indian leaders, PM Juddha Shamsher suspected that he was in collusion with them against the Ranas. Shukraraj pleaded for his innocence but his argument went unheard. he was put under house-arrest. This incident produced in his heart great antipathy against the Ranas. In 1937 AD, Shukra Raj Shastri, Rajalal, Kedar Man Vyathit, Gangalal etc. established a Nepali Right Committee with Shukraraj as the president. The members of the committee were playing great roles in bringing political awareness by means of explaining the puranas and publishing articles in newspapers. Shastri gave lectures on the Geeta in a number of places. The Rana government grew suspicious. At last, the secret was out and all the members were arrested. Shukraraj Shastri was convicted of giving letures without the permission of the government. He was imprisoned and tortured. Eventually, he was sentenced to death and on Magh 10, 1997 he was hanged at Pachali Bhairab, near Teku. Dharma Bhakta Mathema:Dharma Bhakta Mathema was born of a Newar family in Kathmandu in 1965 BS. His Father Adibhakta Mathema held a government office. he was a 'subba' during the Rana rule. He often went to India to purchase things for the Ranas. he met learned men in India and knew the importance of education. He send Dharma Bhakta to Darjeeling for education. When he had received his education there, he went to Calcutta to study there. Dharma Bhakta was lean and thin in his childhood. So he was admitted to 'Physical Institute' at Calcutta. Due to physical exercise, his health improved unexpectedly and he was announced as "Bengal Champion" in a physical show. It was the time when Indian leaders were struggling for the independence of India from the British rule. Dharma Bhakta met Chittaranjan Das and joined the struggle. Then he returned to kathmandu with the ardent desire of freedom from the Rana regime. In those days, Juddha Shamsher was PM of Nepal. he exiled AdiBhakta Mathema. Dharma Bhakta met Dashrath Chand in Kathmandu in 1990 BS. In 1936 AD, a political party Praja Parishad was founded in the house of Dharma Bhakta. The founders were Tanka Prasad Acharya, Jiwan Raj Sharma, Ramhari Sharma, Dharma Bhakta and Dashrath Chand. Once Dharma Bhakta had an occasion to display his physical features at Ghode Jatra. King Tribhuwan was greatly impressed by him. He was appointed to teach King Tribhuwan Physical exercise. He acted as a link between the king and the Praja Parishad. he conveyed every activity of the Praja parishad to the King. One day, a secret meeting of Praja Parishad was held in Lainchaur. King Tribhuwan attended the meeting. The information reached to Juddha Shamsher. Many members of Praja Parishad including Dharma Bhakta were arrested. On Magh 12, 1997 BS, Dharma Bhakta was hanged till death at Shifal at Midnight. Ganga Lal Shrestha:Gangalal Shrestha was a genuine democrate who sacrificed his life to introdue democracy into Nepal. he was the son of Bhaktalal, who was in government Service. Gangalal was born in 1975 BS. When his father was at Bhangeri in Ramechhap district. He went to Calcutta with his uncle to study;. After his education in Calcutta, he came back to Kathmandu and was admitted to Durbar High School. he was an intelligent student and secured first division at the Matriculation Examination. Whjen his school examination was over, he was admitted to Trichandra College, where he studied Science. Galgalal was fond of acting and his acting was liked by people. Apart from this, he was an excellent orator. In those days, the campaign against the Ranas rule had been started by educated and conscious Nepalese. In 1936 AD Mahabir School was founded to bring consciousness. Gangalal jointed the school. The main aim of the school was to fill the student's heart with patriotic feelings. One day in 1995 BS, Gangalal gave a lecture on human rights at Asan. He was arrested but was soon released. One day, the met Dasharathchand and joined the Praja parishad. He started working vigorouly to overthrow the Rana rule. The Praja Parishad began distributing pamphelts against the Rana government. In 1997 BS, he was arrested and put into jail. There he was inhumanely tortured. On karkit15, 1997, he and Dasharath Chand were shot dead in front of Shobha Bhagwati.Dashrath Chand Thakur:Dashrath Chand Thakur was Rajput by caste. He was born at baskot in the district of Baitadi in 1960 BS. His father's name was Sher Bahadur Chand. He received his primary education at Nepalgunj. the he studied in different places like Almoda, Kumaon, Nainital etc. Finally, he went to Banaras, where he passed I.A. examination. In Banaras, he worked for Kashi Nagari Pracharini Sabha. He has seen how Indians were trying to free India from the British rule. He was impressed by the freedom movement of India. he remembered the miserable condition of the general public of Nepal. The public were suffering from poverty, illeteracy and ignorance. they were being exploited by the ruling class who had no law to obey and who lived in luxury. Dasharath Chand couldn't resist protesting the rulers. He was determined to end the Rana rule. He began to write articles against the Ranas in the Janata published from Patna in India under the pseudonym of Sewasingh. Dashrath Chand met Tanka Prasad Acharya and Dharma Bhakta Mathema. A political paty called the Praja Parishad was organized in the presidency of Tanka Prasad Acharya. It became active and started distributing pamphlets explaining the arbitrary Rana rule. For about 4 months, the government culd not know who were doing it. At last, a reward of Rs. 5000 was announced for the revealation of the secret. The reward tempted Ramji Joshi, a member of Praja Parishad and he disclosed the secret. So arresting the leaders was started. Gangalal and Dashrath Chand were arrested. In prison, they were given severe torture and pain. They were asked to beg pardon but they didn't do so. At last, on Kartik 15 1997, Dasharath Chand and Gangalal were shot dead at Shobha Bhagawati.