The haldi kumkum ceremony is quite popular in the states of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Goa. The married women of Tamil Nadu host a similar function called Aadiperukku, which is celebrated on the 18th day of the Tamil month called Adi (mid-July to mid-August).
This small function is hosted in...
Today, Gurpurab or Guru Nanak Jayanti (the birth anniversary of the first Sikh guru), also known as the Prakash Utsav, is being celebrated with much aplomb in India and amongst the Sikh community and followers of Guru Nanak Dev all over the world.
Prabhat Pheris (early morning singing of hymns starting from...
One of the places famous for its beautiful beaches in India is the State of Odisha. The beaches of Odisha (Orissa) can really envelop you in a festive spirit. While enjoying the glory of a moderate sun here, the golden beaches leave you asking for more. Embraced lovingly by...
Following the period of austerities of shraddh, Navratri flags off the festive season of dance and divinity. During the Navratras (Navratri), Durga is worshipped and invoked with kalash, flowers, and prayers.
Folk legend says the evil forces of demon Mahishasura posed a threat to humanity. All the gods combined their resources...
Khajuraho temples: art, worship, or erotica?
Khajuraho – a word that conjures up images of scenes from the lives of men and women and gods and goddesses, immortalized in stone and sculpture for posterity. There is a mystery shrouding these ancient temples in the state of Madhya Pradesh which many...
The door's adorned with mango leaves, doorstep with rangoli...
The main doorstep of the house is being adorned with fresh mango leaves. A garland of yellow and orange flowers are also being made for the doorway. Rangoli, or muggu as it is locally known is being drawn at the gate....
An ancient history and one of the most incredibly diverse cultures – this is the India that BECKONS travelers from far and wide. Testaments to its heritage are many. Just take a look at the splendid palaces standing tall and proud in all the four directions. They speak of...
Congratulations on deciding to tie the knot! If you are wondering what could possibly top the occasion and possibly make it even more magical, there’s just one answer- destination weddings. If you are wondering what the hype of such celebrations is associated with, say it aloud with me ‘carpe...
India is a country of diverse cultures and languages. Amongst these, one of the most celebrated cultures and community is that of the Bengalis. Their celebrations range from the massive Durga Puja ones to the Poila Boishakh festivities - everything they do is resplendent with immense sweetness and colours....
After sleeping (in nidra) for the four-month Chaturmas period, Lord Vishnu is said to awaken on probodhini (awakening) ekadasi, also known as the devutthani (Lord's awakening) ekadasi. This is an auspicious day, not only because the Lord is awakening from his slumber but also taking charge of his duties...
It is that time of the year when the pleasant February air BECKONS travellers who enjoy winter breaks much more than the summer ones. Usually, people run to warmer locales in winters (running away from the chills) but Himachal Pradesh is another story. It makes you fall in love...
A wedding doesn’t herald the end of nuptial celebrations; rather, it sets the scene for an anticipated honeymoon where couples can escape together. But this begs the question of which destination to go to. There are so many and you obviously want to choose the best for you and...
Magnificence and history of Umaid Bhavan Palace in Jodhpur and its royal family
Umaid Bhavan Palace located in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, is considered among the world’s largest private residences. One part of the palace is managed by the Taj Hotels and the other part belongs to the royal family. The present...
Yes, right! What’s a trip to Lucknow without looking into its culture through its most famous embroidery work - Chikankari? This gorgeous thread work has become the lifestyle of the gorgeous city, making it globally a favourite!
Intricate and beautiful, the Chikankari work – a type of embroidery - is seen...
India Beckons wishes its readers a very happy Dhanteras.
Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi, marks the beginning of the five-day festival of Diwali and, according to the Hindu calendar, is celebrated on the thirteenth lunar day of Krishna Paksha ('Dhan' means wealth and 'Teras' means thirteenth). This is the day...
