Monday, November 5, 2007
Lakshmi welcomed with lights, diyas and action
Diwali is celebrated in Gujarat with great gusto and aplomb. As Gujarat develops into one of India's fastest growing business and trading hubs, Diwali has, in recent times, seen phenomenal commercial activity during the period. Lakshmi puja, again central to Diwali celebrations, usually takes place 18 days after the end of Navratri (Dusshera), and lasts for five days. The first day of this five-day celebration begins with Dhanteras (Dhanatrayodashi), followed by Narakachaturdashi, which is also known as Kalichoudas. The third day is chopda pujan while Gujarat's New Year (Gudi Padava) normally occurs (depending on the Hindu calendar) on the fourth day and Bhathru Dwithiya on the last day. There is a belief that Goddess Lakshmi visits homes that are well lit.
Therefore, all Gujarati families decorate their houses with light, flowers, festoons, candles and diyas. They create rangolis and also draw small footprints with rice flour and vermilion powder inside their homes. Shopping is a huge affair with the whole family dividing up tasks.
Hence, the markets in Gujarat liven up a month before Diwali - from jewelry, clothes, sweets and gift items to firecrackers. However, the markets of Gujarat down their shutters on Dhanteras, two days before Diwali until Labh Pancham. For traders and businessmen, this is vacation time.
To read the complete article click here: http://www.newsindia-times.comimage and article source:www.newsindiatimes.com
Labels: celebrations, diwali, festivals, indian temples, laxmi puja
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
AKSHARDHAM - Font of science and spirituality
Built by the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), the Akshardham Temple represents a unique tradition of the Swaminarayan faith - that of straddling the continuum of spirituality and science.The restaurant caters to a wide variety of traditional dishes. Groups can book snacks and meals in advance.
¦ Respectable' attire is expected. Winter (November to March): Weather is mild and pleasant. Light clothes for the day, a comfortable sweater or shawl for the evening. Summer (April to June): Weather is hot and sunny. Light cotton clothes.
Monsoon (July to October): Umbrellas recommended.
¦ Photography and filming are strictly prohibited. Special permission is required for media representatives or students photographing the complex for personal or commercial use. Photographers can be chastised if their work or presence is causing a disturbance for other visitors.
¦ Charity: Utilize the donation boxes or contact the reception.
TIPS FOR FIRST-TIMERS ¦ You are not allowed to carry food inside the premises. Pure, fresh vegetarian food and snacks are available at Premvati Refreshments located in Sahajanand Vun. The restaurant caters to a wide variety of traditional dishes. Groups can book snacks and meals in advance. ¦ Respectable' attire is expected. Winter (November to March): Weather is mild and pleasant. Light clothes for the day, a comfortable sweater or shawl for the evening. Summer (April to June): Weather is hot and sunny. Light cotton clothes. Monsoon (July to October): Umbrellas recommended. ¦ Photography and filming are strictly prohibited. Special permission is required for media representatives or students photographing the complex for personal or commercial use. Photographers can be chastised if their work or presence is causing a disturbance for other visitors. ¦ Charity: Utilize the donation boxes or contact the reception.
Labels: holy places, indian temples, religious, temples
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