Ganesh Chaturthi

Lord Ganesha is a popular Hindu deity since He is invoked before the beginning of any auspicious journey. The diety with the countenance of an elephant is synbolic. The head of Lord Ganesha signify Atman or soul and his body suggests Maya or earthly and human desires for pleasures. ‘Ganesha Chaturthi’, thus is a holy day when the birth anniversary of Lord Ganesha is celebrated ardently all over the nation. Another name for ‘Ganesha Chaturthi’ is ‘ Vinayak Chaturthi’. It is usually a ten-days festival, that falls in the Hindu month of Bhadra (mid-August to mid-September) and ends on Anantha Chaturdashi.

Believers of Lord Ganesha around the world warmly welcome the idols of Ganesha in their houses. They worship the idol for ten days from Bhadrapad Shudh Chathurthi to Anantha Chaturthi. On the eleventh day, Lord Ganesha is dressed up elaborately; and the idol of Ganesha is then set to be transported to a river or a sea. He is raised high on a platform, surrounded by a crowd of worshippers dancing and singing all through the way. This cheerful procession is a farewell to Lord Ganesha to his heavely abode to Kailash, taking away with himself the adversities in human life. The festival ends with the loud chants of the believers: "Ganpati bappa morya, pudcha varshi laukar ya" (Hail Lord Ganesh, return again soon next year).

The festival is celebrated largely in the Indian states of Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. People rejoice the festival as it is believed that Ganesha brings home good luck and prosperity. Ganesha Chaturthi is, therefore, considered an opportunity to wish your loved ones loads of good fortune. Greeting cards are a popular choice. Though, people who want to send their messages in no time go for E-greetings on the festival. Also, sending across charming gifts is another way to convey your blessings to your near and dear ones!

Happy Ganesha Chaturthi!

Teachers' Day (India)

Teachers' Day is a great expression to pay tribute to the teachers who spend their lives in nurturing the young citizens of the country. The role of a teacher in any society is remarkably significant: they inculcate good values and morals among their students, thus becoming helping hands in the building of a nation.

Teachers' Day is celebrated around the world on October 5 every year. Nations usually eulogize a native teacher and celebrate the occasion on their birthday or any other significant day associated with education. Hence, the day of celebration varies from one country to another. Around eighty nations all over the world celebrate the day; and 11 out of them share a common Teachers' Day on February 28.

Coming in a few days in India, Teachers' Day falls on September 5 every year. The day commemorates Dr. Sarvapali Radhakrishnan's since 1962. Dr. Radhakrishnan was the President of India during 1962; also, he was an accomplished philosopher and educator.

Indian schools organize a grand festival on the day. The ceremony usually begins with a speech dedicated to teachers. It is furthered by elaborated feast, dance and songs. 

Usually, students perform the role of the teachers in schools, to express their gratitude. The beauty of Teachers' Day is that it cultivates the bond between a student and their teachers.

Traditional ways of greeting one's teachers is by dedicating them a greeting card. In fact, these days there are so many creative gift ideas for Teachers' Day. Also, with changing times devotional messages to teachers can be easily sent through E-cards. Gifts and cards are beautiful way to articulate your affection and respect for your teacher.

We all have been students sometime in our lives; and Teachers' Day gives us a chance to dedicate a day to our honorable educators.