Festival Date

Why is Parsi New Year in August? History, Significance and Celebrations

Navroz, or Parsi New Year’s Day, is a momentous event that the Parsi community commemorates on a global scale. This exuberant festival signifies the commencement of the Zoroastrian calendar year, and it carries immense cultural and religious significance for the Parsis. With an extensive heritage spanning millennia, Parsi New Year’s Day serves as a period of contemplation, rejuvenation, and jubilant revelries. Throughout this article, we shall delve into the inception of this gala, delve into its unique practices and customs, and grasp its importance in today’s contemporary society.

Parsi New Year’s Day 2025 Date in India: 15th August, Friday

Parsi New Year’s Day 2025 Overview

Parsi New Year’s Day 2025 India Calendar

Celebrate Parsi New Year’s Day 2025 with this special India Calendar; featuring a unique design for each month and special cultural highlights.

Origins and History of Parsi New Year’s Day

The roots of Parsi New Year’s Day can be traced back to ancient Persia, where it was celebrated as Nowruz. Nowruz, meaning “new day” in Persian, has been observed for over 3,000 years and is considered one of the oldest known celebrations in human history. When Zoroastrianism, the religion founded by Prophet Zarathustra, spread to the Indian subcontinent around the 8th century CE, the Parsis brought this cherished tradition with them.

When is Parsi New Year’s Day 2025?

Customs and Traditions of Parsi New Year

Parsi New Year’s Day is marked by various customs and traditions that have been passed down through generations. One of the most significant rituals is the setting up of a “Haft Seen” table. This table is adorned with seven symbolic items, each starting with the Persian letter “Seen,” representing different aspects of life such as rebirth, love, health, and prosperity. The items typically include sprouts, coins, a mirror, candles, and a holy book.

Another important tradition is the wearing of new clothes on this day. Parsis dress in their finest attire to symbolize a fresh start and to honor the occasion. Families gather to offer prayers at fire temples, seeking blessings for the year ahead. It is also common to exchange gifts and share festive meals with loved ones, spreading joy and unity.

Significance of Parsi New Year

While Parsi New Year’s Day holds deep historical and religious significance, it also carries relevance in the modern world. The festival serves as a reminder of the Parsi community’s resilience and rich cultural heritage. It offers an opportunity for Parsis to come together, strengthen their bonds, and pass on their traditions to younger generations.

Moreover, Parsi New Year’s Day promotes values such as renewal, hope, and gratitude. It encourages individuals to reflect on their past deeds and make resolutions for personal growth. The festive atmosphere brings a sense of joy and optimism, fostering a spirit of positivity and unity within the community.

Celebrations Around the World

Parsi New Year’s Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm not only in India, where the majority of Parsis reside, but also in other parts of the world where the community has settled. In Mumbai, the heart of the Parsi community in India, the day begins with prayers at fire temples followed by cultural programs, traditional music, and dance performances. Families come together to share traditional delicacies like “sali boti” (a meat dish) and “ravo” (a sweet semolina dessert).

In addition to India, Parsis in countries like Iran, Pakistan, and the United States also celebrate this auspicious day with fervor. These celebrations often include community gatherings, parades, and cultural events that showcase the rich heritage of the Parsi community.

Guru Purnima 2025: Date, Timings, History, Rituals and Significance

Guru Purnima, a revered and devout occasion, is joyfully celebrated on the full moon day in the Hindu month of Ashadha, marking a momentous day in various spiritual customs, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. This sacred day serves as a heartfelt tribute to the spiritual mentors, or gurus, who have selflessly guided individuals on their profound quest for spiritual growth. Within this article, we explore the essence of Guru Purnima, delving into its historical and cultural roots, as well as the sacred practices intertwined with this auspicious day.

Guru Purnima 2025 Date in India: 10th July, Thursday

Guru Purnima 2025 Overview

Guru Purnima 2025 India Calendar

Celebrate Guru Purnima 2025 with this special India Calendar; featuring a unique design for each month and special cultural highlights.

Guru Purnima 2025 Time in India

Guru Purnima, a significant spiritual celebration, is set to take place on Thursday, July 04, 2025. The auspicious Purnima Tithi, a lunar day known for its fullness and abundance, will commence at 05:59 PM on July 05, 2025, and conclude at 03:46 PM on July 04, 2025. This sacred occasion is marked by devotees paying homage to their gurus, and expressing gratitude for their wisdom and guidance. It is a time of deep reverence, where disciples gather to honor their spiritual teachers and seek their blessings for spiritual growth and enlightenment.

When is Guru Purnima 2025?

Significance of Guru Purnima

Guru Purnima is a day dedicated to paying homage to gurus, who are considered the guiding lights in one’s spiritual journey. The word “guru” is derived from Sanskrit, where “gu” means darkness and “ru” means remover. Thus, a guru is believed to be someone who dispels the darkness of ignorance and leads their disciples towards enlightenment. On this day, disciples express their gratitude and respect towards their gurus for imparting knowledge, wisdom, and spiritual guidance.

Story of Guru Purnima Festival

The origins of Guru Purnima can be traced back to ancient times. In Hindu mythology, it is believed that Lord Shiva, the supreme deity, became the first guru or Adi Guru on this day. He transmitted his profound knowledge to his disciples, known as the Saptarishis or the Seven Sages. This event marked the beginning of the guru-disciple tradition.

Additionally, Guru Purnima has deep roots in Buddhism. It is believed that Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon on this day at Sarnath in India. The sermon, known as Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, laid the foundation of the Buddhist teachings, known as the Dharma.

In Jainism, Guru Purnima holds significance as it commemorates the day when Lord Mahavira, the last Tirthankara, made Indrabhuti Gautam his first disciple. This event marked the beginning of the Jain tradition of spiritual teachers.

Observances of Guru Purnima

Guru Purnima is observed in various ways across different spiritual traditions. Devotees wake up early and begin the day with meditation and prayers. They visit temples, ashrams, or monasteries to seek blessings from their gurus. Many disciples offer flowers, fruits, or other symbolic offerings to their spiritual teachers as a token of gratitude.

Discourses and spiritual talks are organized on this day, where gurus share their wisdom and insights with their disciples. These gatherings provide an opportunity for seekers to deepen their understanding of spiritual teachings and gain clarity on their path.

In some places, disciples observe a fast on Guru Purnima as a mark of devotion. The fast is broken only after receiving blessings from their gurus. This practice symbolizes the disciple’s commitment to discipline and self-control.

Essence of Guru-Disciple Relationship

The guru-disciple relationship is considered sacred and profound. The guru is seen as a spiritual guide who not only imparts knowledge but also helps the disciple in their personal growth and transformation. The disciple, on the other hand, is expected to be sincere, humble, and receptive to the teachings of the guru.

The relationship between a guru and disciple is built on trust, respect, and unconditional love. The guru provides guidance, support, and encouragement to the disciple, while the disciple learns and implements the teachings in their life. This bond extends beyond the physical presence of the guru and continues to influence the disciple even after the guru has left the mortal realm.

Happy Guru Purnima 2025 Wishes

• May the light of knowledge and the blessings of your gurus illuminate your path and lead you to success and happiness. Wishing you a joyous Guru Purnima!
• Today, I honor and thank all the teachers and gurus who have shaped my life and guided me towards the right path. Happy Guru Purnima!
• On the occasion of Guru Purnima, I extend my deepest respect and gratitude to all the teachers who have inspired me and instilled in me the love for learning. Thank you for being my guiding light!
• May the divine blessings of your gurus empower you with knowledge, wisdom, and inner peace. Happy Guru Purnima to you and your loved ones!

Onam 2025 Date: History, Significance, Time and Importance

Step right into the vivacious and captivating realm of Onam, a celebration that encapsulates the very essence of pure elation and bliss. As we embark on this expedition into the intricate tapestry of this cultural extravaganza, allow me to serve as your trusted companion, unraveling the captivating customs and traditions that render Onam an unparalleled revelry. Originating from the deep-rooted cultural heritage of Kerala, a state nestled in the southern parts of India, Onam surpasses mere festival status; it is an extraordinary encounter that transcends the confines of both time and space. Together, let us embark on this enthralling odyssey, immersing ourselves in the kaleidoscope of vibrant hues, delectable flavors, and melodious harmonies that truly define this grand jubilee of abundance.

Onam 2025 Date in India: 04th September, Thursday

Onam 2025 Overview

Onam 2025 India Calendar

Celebrate Onam 2025 with this special India Calendar; featuring a unique design for each month and special cultural highlights.

Onam 2025 Date in Kerala

Mark your calendars for September 14th, which falls on a Saturday, as that is the auspicious day when Onam will be observed. Onam is not just any ordinary festival; it holds immense significance in the hearts of people from Kerala, a state located in the southern part of India. It is a time when families come together to celebrate and rejoice in the bountiful harvest season. The festivities span over several days, with each day bringing its own unique customs and traditions.

So, make sure to clear your schedule on September 4th, 2025 as you don’t want to miss out on experiencing the vibrant colors, delicious feasts, and lively cultural performances that are synonymous with Onam. Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich heritage and warm hospitality that this festival has to offer.

When is Onam in Kerala in 2025?

Thiruvonam 2025 Date in India

On the auspicious day of Thiruvonam, which falls on 15th September in the year 2025, the vibrant and joyous festival of Onam reaches its pinnacle. Thiruvonam is considered to be the most important day of the entire celebration, as it marks the grand finale of this ten-day extravaganza. It is a day filled with immense enthusiasm, traditional rituals, and heartfelt celebrations.

On Thiruvonam, people wake up early in the morning and begin their day by taking a bath and adorning themselves in new clothes. The highlight of this day is the elaborate feast known as ‘Onasadya,’ which is prepared with great love and care. This sumptuous meal consists of various mouth-watering vegetarian dishes served on a banana leaf. From crispy papadums to tangy pickles, from aromatic curries to sweet desserts, every delicacy adds to the festive spirit.

Apart from relishing delicious food, people also engage in various cultural activities and games on Thiruvonam. One such popular activity is Vallamkali or snake boat race, where beautifully decorated boats rowed by enthusiastic participants glide through serene backwaters. The air resonates with cheers and applause as spectators cheer for their favorite team.

As evening approaches, homes are adorned with beautiful floral decorations called ‘Pookalam.’ These intricate designs made from colorful flowers create a mesmerizing ambiance that symbolizes prosperity and happiness. Families come together to offer prayers at temples and perform traditional dances like Kaikottikali or Thiruvathira Kali.

Thiruvonam 2025 Muhurat Time

During the Onam festival, one of the most significant days is Thiruvonam. In 2025, Thiruvonam falls on September 15th, a Sunday. The festivities begin the previous evening at 8:32 PM on September 14th and continue until 6:49 PM on September 15th. This period is filled with excitement and anticipation as people come together to celebrate this auspicious occasion.

Thiruvonam holds great importance in the hearts of those who observe the Onam festival. It is believed that on this day, King Mahabali, a legendary ruler of Kerala, visits his subjects’ homes to ensure their well-being and prosperity. People prepare elaborate feasts known as ‘Onasadya’ to welcome him. The Onasadya consists of a variety of traditional dishes served on banana leaves and is a symbol of abundance and unity.

The atmosphere during Thiruvonam is vibrant and joyous. Families gather together, dressed in traditional attire, to participate in various cultural activities such as folk dances like Pulikali (tiger dance) and Kathakali performances. The streets are adorned with beautiful flower carpets called ‘Pookalam,’ created using colorful petals arranged in intricate patterns. These decorations add to the festive spirit and create a sense of unity among the community.

Thiruvonam is not just a day for celebration but also an opportunity for reflection and gratitude. It reminds us of the importance of family bonds, community spirit, and the significance of nature’s bounty. As we come together to celebrate Thiruvonam during the Onam festival, let us cherish these values and spread happiness and positivity around us.

Onam – the festival of joy and happiness

Onam, the vibrant and exuberant festival celebrated in the beautiful state of Kerala, is truly a time of immense joy and happiness. It is a festival that brings people together, transcending all barriers of age, caste, and creed. The air is filled with excitement as families gather to celebrate this auspicious occasion.

During Onam, the entire state comes alive with colorful decorations, traditional music, dance performances, and various cultural activities. The streets are adorned with intricate floral carpets called Pookalam, created using vibrant flowers of different hues. These stunning designs not only add to the visual appeal but also symbolize prosperity and abundance.

One of the highlights of Onam is the grand feast known as Onasadya. This elaborate meal consists of a variety of delicious vegetarian dishes served on a banana leaf. From mouth-watering curries to crispy papadums and sweet desserts, every dish is prepared with love and care. The aroma wafting through the air is enough to make anyone’s taste buds tingle with anticipation.

But what truly makes Onam special is the spirit of unity and togetherness that fills the hearts of everyone involved. It is a time when families come together to create lasting memories, share laughter, and strengthen their bonds. The infectious enthusiasm spreads like wildfire as people engage in traditional games such as Vallamkali (boat race), Pulikali (tiger dance), and Tug-of-War.