Art & Culture

The four-day ancient festival of Chhath Puja drew to a profound close this morning as millions of devotees, primarily across Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, offered ‘Usha Arghya’—prayers to the rising sun. This grand finale, marked by unwavering faith and vibrant celebrations, illuminated riverbanks and water bodies across the nation.

AlwaysFirst reports: Novotel Guwahati GS Road officially ushered in the festive season with its vibrant Cake Mixing Brunch. The event at 188 Downtown restaurant saw the city’s socialites and patrons come together for a day of culinary tradition, live music, and community bonding, blending the season’s first aromas of joy and togetherness.

In a notable cultural gesture, former President Donald Trump was seen participating in a Diwali tradition, lighting a diya within the White House. The moment, shared widely online, was coupled with a message extending warm wishes for the festival of lights, highlighting a continued engagement with the Indian diaspora.

In a significant ruling just ahead of the festive season, the Supreme Court of India has reaffirmed its stance on firecrackers. The court has permitted a strictly regulated four-day window for the sale and use of only certified green crackers, aiming to balance tradition with environmental and public health concerns.

The worlds of prestigious literature and blockbuster cinema collide. AlwaysFirst delves into the fascinating journey of Nobel Prize-winning authors whose timeless books were masterfully adapted for the big screen, from Kipling’s wild adventures to Hemingway’s profound dramas.

For centuries, a captivating legend has surrounded Tamil Nadu’s iconic Brihadeeswara Temple: that its main tower, the vimana, casts no shadow on the earth. AlwaysFirst delves into the science and the stunning architectural genius behind this ancient phenomenon that continues to inspire awe and wonder.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted the nation on the auspicious occasion of Janmashtami, emphasizing Lord Krishna’s teachings of righteousness and unity. His message resonated with millions celebrating the birth of the beloved deity.

Janmashtami 2025, the joyous Hindu festival celebrating Lord Krishna’s birth, will be observed on August 16. Marking his 5252nd birth anniversary, devotees will fast, sing bhajans, and reenact Krishna’s divine childhood. Discover the puja timings, significance, and vibrant traditions like Dahi Handi.

Invoking the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi goes beyond material wealth—her presence is believed to bring harmony, purity, and abundance. But how do you ensure she graces your home? Discover six sacred Hindu practices that devotees swear by to attract and retain her divine favor.