Ugadi marks the beginning of spring and is symbolic of a new year, a new life, new hopes and aspirations. The term Ugadi is an amalgamation of two words: ‘yug’ meaning ‘age’ and ‘adi’ meaning ‘a new beginning’. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Brahma created the universe on this day.  Ugadi is about the balance …

Hindu festivals are communal celebrations through which an aspect of the universal truth is brought to life. Holi is played with everyone, regardless of any status, hierarchy in social or professional standing or gender. The colors equalize all. No one is higher or lower. Holi signifies boundless happiness. Holi reminds us of the inner bliss …

Part Sun Part Moon Everybody has a little bit of the sun and moon in them. Everybody has a little bit of man, woman, and animal in them. Darks and lights in them. Everyone is part of a connected cosmic system. Part earth and sea, wind and fire, with some salt and dust swimming in …

The 14th day of every month or the day before the new moon which is the darkest night in the lunar month, is known as Shivratri. Mahashivratri is the most powerful of the 12 Shivratris in a year for on this day the planetary positions, especially in the northern hemisphere, are such that there is …

Most of the religious festivals at this time of year celebrate prosperity, hope and light – with the third wave of Covid/Omicron looming large over us, I find that it’s important to hold onto the meaning of these celebrations all the more if I cannot mark them in the way I might have in the …

MY NEW YEAR WISH BY NEIL GAIMAN A decade ago, I wrote:May your coming year be filled with magic and dreams and good madness. I hope you read some fine books and kiss someone who thinks you’re wonderful, and don’t forget to make some art — write or draw or build or sing or live as only …