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Easter 2024: Date, celebrations and rituals, here's all you need to know

As Easter approaches in 2024, it’s a time for Christians worldwide to celebrate one of the most significant events in their faith – the resurrection of Jesus Christ. But beyond its religious significance, Easter has become a culturally rich holiday celebrated by people of various beliefs. Here’s a comprehensive guide to all you need to know about Easter 2024: Easter 2024: Easter’s Origins and Significance Easter, also known as Resurrection Sunday, commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, as described in the New Testament of the Bible. It is Christianity’s oldest and most important festival, symbolising new life, hope, and redemption. Easter 2024: Dates and Observances This year, Easter is going to be celebrated on March 31, 2024. The date varies each year because it is based on the lunar calendar, specifically the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox. The week leading up to Easter Sunday is known as Holy Week, which includes Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday. Easter 2024: Religious Traditions For Christians, Easter Sunday begins with sunrise services and church gatherings to celebrate the resurrection. Many churches hold special services, including the lighting of the Paschal candle and the recitation of the Exsultet. Easter eggs, symbolizing new life, are often decorated and exchanged, while Easter lilies adorn churches as a symbol of purity and hope. Easter 2024: Secular Celebrations Beyond its religious roots, Easter has evolved into a secular holiday celebrated with various customs and traditions. One of the most popular activities is the Easter egg hunt, where children search for hidden eggs filled with candy or small toys. Decorating Easter eggs, baking festive treats like hot cross buns and Easter cakes, and hosting family gatherings are common secular traditions. Easter 2024: Global Customs and Festivities Easter is celebrated around the world, each culture adding its unique customs and festivities. In Greece, the tradition of “tsougrisma” involves cracking red-dyed eggs to symbolize the cracking open of Christ’s tomb. In Spain and Mexico, elaborate processions and reenactments of the Passion of Christ take place. In the United States, the White House hosts its annual Easter Egg Roll on the South Lawn. Easter 2024: Symbols and Iconography Several symbols are associated with Easter, each carrying its own meaning. The Easter bunny, a symbol of fertility and new life, is a prominent figure in secular Easter celebrations. Easter baskets filled with goodies represent abundance and blessings. The lamb symbolizes Jesus as the “Lamb of God,” while the cross represents his crucifixion and resurrection. Easter 2024: Reflection and Renewal Easter is not only a time for celebration but also for reflection and renewal. It’s an opportunity for individuals to contemplate the themes of resurrection, forgiveness, and redemption, regardless of their religious beliefs. Many people use this time to engage in acts of charity and kindness, spreading love and goodwill within their communities. In conclusion, Easter 2024 is a time for both religious observance and cultural celebration, marked by traditions that span centuries and continents. Whether participating in religious ceremonies, engaging in secular festivities, or simply taking time for personal reflection, Easter offers an opportunity for individuals and communities to come together in hope, joy, and renewal.

28 March,2024 02:39 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Representational Pic/Atul Kamble

Rangpanchami 2024: All you may need to know about the festival

Rangpanchami is celebrated with intensity and excitement, occurs five days after Holi. Rangpanchami, derived from the Sanskrit words "rang" (color) and "panchami" (fifth), is celebrated on the fifth day following Holi and marks the end of the Holi celebrations. This auspicious day is deeply culturally significant, representing the onset of spring and the triumph of virtue over evil. As communities around India prepare to celebrate this colorful extravaganza, here is all you may need to know about the festival and its rich traditions. One of the most significant differences between Holi and Rangapanchami is the time of the events. While Holi is often celebrated across two days, Rangapanchami falls exactly on the fifth day after the full moon, according to the Hindu lunar calendar. This usually occurs in March or April, depending on the lunar cycle. Another significant difference is the way colors are used during Rangapanchami. Rangapanchami adopts a more restrained approach to color play than Holi, which involves exciting color wars with dry or wet powder. People frequently smear one other with dry or wet colors, though the intensity of the color play is usually lower than it is during Holi. Rangpanchami is known for its fun splashing of brilliant colors, with people of all ages taking to the streets to douse each other with colored powders and water. The air is filled with laughing, music, and the festive energy of the occasion. Communities come together to celebrate Rangpanchami with gusto, arranging cultural events, processions, and street plays to highlight India's rich cultural past. These events build a sense of community and friendship among the attendees. On Rangpanchami, some regions conduct traditional customs, such as worshiping Lord Krishna and Radha, who are honored as symbols of love and devotion. Devotees offer prayers, chant hymns, and decorate idols with colorful garlands. Rangpanchami is also a time for eating and celebration, with relatives and friends gathering to share traditional delicacies, sweets, and savory snacks. The celebrations continue late into the night, with revelers exchanging pleasantries and sharing laughing. Rangpanchami crosses religious and societal boundaries, bringing people from many backgrounds together in a celebration of joy and harmony. It represents India's rich cultural legacy and the sense of oneness that unites its people. While Rangpanchami is a time for joyous celebrations, it is critical to commemorate the holiday properly, taking into mind environmental sustainability and safety.

25 March,2024 07:48 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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Easter 2024: Significance, celebrations and rituals on the day

As Easter approaches, Christians around the world prepare to celebrate the key event of their faith--Jesus Christ's resurrection. This hallowed occasion is deeply meaningful in Christian theology, representing hope, renewal, and the triumph of life over death. Let's look at the meaning, celebrations, and customs linked with Easter Day. Easter marks the end of Holy Week, which began on Palm Sunday and included events like Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday. The central concept of Easter is the resurrection of Jesus Christ three days after his crucifixion, as described in the New Testament of the Bible. Christians see the resurrection as the final manifestation of God's power over sin and death, promising believers eternal life and redemption. Many Christian communities assemble before dawn on Easter Sunday to see the sunrise and celebrate Jesus' resurrection. These morning ceremonies are frequently held outdoors, signifying the start of a new day and the hope offered by Christ's resurrection. The Easter Vigil is a prominent liturgical celebration that many Christian groups hold on Holy Saturday evening. It starts in darkness and ends with the lighting of the Paschal candle, which symbolises Christ's light illuminating the world. The vigil includes Bible readings, prayers, hymns, and Eucharistic celebrations. Easter Sunday Mass or worship services are held in churches around the world, bringing believers together to celebrate Jesus' resurrection. The ceremonies frequently include special hymns, prayers, and talks on the themes of resurrection, hope, and salvation. Easter egg hunts are a popular custom, particularly among children, and represent the joy and new life connected with Easter. Hidden Easter eggs, frequently containing candy or treats, are eagerly sought after in gardens, parks, and churchyards. Families and friends get together for holiday meals and Easter feasts, which include traditional dishes like roast lamb, ham, hot cross buns, and Easter desserts like simnel cake and chocolate eggs. The feast represents abundance, fellowship, and the delight of sharing with loved ones. Easter is associated with a variety of symbols, including the Easter lily (which represents purity and new life), the Paschal lamb (which represents Jesus as God's sacrificial Lamb), and the Easter bunny (a secular symbol of fertility and rebirth).

25 March,2024 07:37 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
People celebrating Holi in Mumbai/Atul Kamble

Rangapanchami 2024: Exploring the colourful festival that follows Holi

Rangapanchami is a colourful and happy holiday observed largely in the Indian state of Maharashtra, five days following Holi. While Holi is well-known for its vibrant colour play and festivities, Rangapanchami has its traditions and customs that set it apart from its predecessor. Rangapanchami is a widely celebrated event in Maharashtra, especially in rural areas and small towns. It is the pinnacle of the Holi celebrations, giving an added dimension of excitement and revelry to the joyful occasion. One of the primary differences between Holi and Rangapanchami is the timing of the ceremonies. While Holi is normally celebrated across two days, Rangapanchami occurs precisely on the fifth day after the full moon, according to the Hindu lunar calendar. This typically occurs in March or April, depending on the lunar cycle. Another major contrast is the way colours are used during Rangapanchami. Unlike Holi, where people engage in lively colour wars with dry or wet powder, Rangapanchami takes a more restrained approach to colour play. People typically smear one other with dry or wet colours, but the intensity of the colour play is usually lower than it is during Holi. Rangapanchami has cultural and religious significance for the people of Maharashtra. It is thought to commemorate the victory of good over evil and the onset of spring, representing the regeneration of life and the triumph of light over darkness. The holiday is observed with a variety of rites and traditions that differ from place to region. In various parts of Maharashtra, people visit local temples to worship and seek blessings for prosperity and happiness. Others attend community gatherings and cultural events, singing and dancing to traditional folk tunes. One of the most well-known Rangapanchami ceremonies is the breaking of an earthen pot filled with buttermilk or yoghurt. Similar to the famed Dahi Handi celebration in Maharashtra, participants build human pyramids to reach and destroy a pot held from a height. The person who successfully breaks the pot is declared the winner and is presented with rewards or praise. Food also plays an important role in Rangapanchami celebrations, with families making unique dishes and sweets to share with family and neighbours. Traditional delicacies like puran poli, shrikhand, and poori bhaji are popular during the festivities.

25 March,2024 07:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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Good Friday 2024: Understanding the significance of the day of remembrance

Good Friday is a serious and significant day commemorated by Christians worldwide, commemorating Jesus Christ's crucifixion and death. It occurs on the Friday preceding Easter Sunday and is a day of reflection, prayer, and commemoration of the events that led up to Jesus' final sacrifice for humanity. Before Good Friday 2024, understand why we celebrate the day.  Good Friday has its origins in the New Testament Gospels, which record the events surrounding Jesus' crucifixion. According to Christian legend, Jesus was seized by Roman authorities after the Last Supper on Maundy Thursday and put through a series of trials before being sentenced to death by crucifixion. Good Friday is very important to Christians because it symbolises Jesus' tremendous sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins. Jesus willingly suffered great pain and humiliation on the crucifixion, bearing the weight of humanity's sins in order to give redemption and reconciliation with God. The crucifixion of Jesus is viewed as the culmination of God's plan of salvation, fulfilling Old Testament predictions and establishing a new covenant between God and humanity. Through his death on the cross, Jesus vanquished sin and death, promising eternal life to those who believe. Good Friday is marked with reverence and solemnity by churches and Christian communities all over the world. Many churches have special Good Friday rituals known as Tenebrae or Stations of the Cross, during which people assemble to meditate on Jesus' passion and death. The cross is a key emblem of Good Friday, representing the instrument of Jesus' crucifixion as well as the ultimate representation of God's love and sacrifice. Christians frequently engage in acts of devotion such as prayer, fasting, and reflection on the meaning of Jesus' death and the prospect of resurrection. In addition to its religious significance, Good Friday is a day to perform humanitarian deeds and serve others. Many Christians opt to serve at shelters, food banks, or community organisations to express their thanks for the gift of salvation while also embodying Christ's selfless love. Despite its solemn tone, Good Friday is also a day of hope and anticipation for Christians, as it signals the start of Easter weekend and the promise of resurrection. The sorrow and mourning of Good Friday give way to the joy and celebration of Easter Sunday when Christians remember Jesus' resurrection and the triumph of life over death.  

25 March,2024 07:21 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Image for representational purposes only. Photo Courtesy: iStock

Good Friday 2024: What is the day celebrated?

Good Friday is a religious holiday usually observed by Christians. It is also called Holy Friday, Black Friday, or Great Friday. It is observed to remember the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, his death, and his rising from the dead. Good Friday, the Friday before Easter Sunday, this year will be celebrated on March 29. For Christians, the death of Jesus Christ on the cross represents the ultimate sacrifice made for the forgiveness of sins. It is believed that through his death, Christ atoned for the sins of humanity and provided a way for believers to have eternal life. The day is considered "good" because of the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus, which opened the way for salvation and reconciliation between God and humanity.  Christians observe Good Friday solemnly to honor the way Jesus Christ underwent tremendous suffering and died for the expiation of their sins. This may involve attending a service where the account of Jesus's agonizing crucifixion is recounted. The day is typically observed by waking up early and prepare for the day of sacrifice, wearing  black to symbolize the mourning, observing the obligatory day of fasting and abstinence as required by the Church, observe silence from noon to 3:00 PM- the hours when Jesus suffered on the cross and venerate the holy cross in home or the Church. In India, Good Friday is a public holiday. It is a day off for the general population, and schools and some businesses are also closed. Many Christians in India attend special church services or pray on Good Friday. Some people also fast or abstain from meat on this day. Many Christians hold parades or open air plays to portray the last days and hours of Jesus' life in some areas of India. After the solemn commemoration of Good Friday, Christians shift their focus to a more joyous occasion- Easter Sunday. On this day, they celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ with lively church services, joyful hymns, and gatherings with family and friends. 

25 March,2024 07:07 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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Good Friday 2024: History and why the day is called Good Friday

Good Friday commemorates Jesus Christ's crucifixion, a pivotal event in Christian theology and the foundation of the faith. According to the New Testament of the Bible, Jesus, whom Christians believe to be the Son of God and the Messiah, was tried and sentenced to death by crucifixion under the Roman ruler of Jerusalem. Good Friday is honored during Holy Week, two days prior to Easter Sunday. This year, it falls on March 29. Also known as Holy Friday, the day remembers Jesus' crucifixion and death at Calvary by the Romans. Good Friday, observed the Friday before Easter Sunday, honors Jesus Christ's crucifixion and death. As the world commemorates Good Friday, a sorrowful day in the Christian calendar, it is critical to reflect on the historical significance of the day and unravel the riddle underlying its seemingly paradoxical name. The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John characterise Jesus' crucifixion as the culmination of his earthly career and the fulfillment of Old Testament predictions. Jesus' crucifixion is portrayed as a sacrificial act of atonement for humanity's sins, providing redemption and salvation to followers. The name "Good Friday" has piqued the interest and consideration of intellectuals and theologians for ages due to its seeming paradox. Some believe that the word "Good Friday" came from the Middle English adjective "good," which meant "holy" or "pious." In this context, "Good Friday" could mean "Holy Friday" or "Sacred Friday." Another interpretation suggests that the term "Good Friday" may stem from the idea that Jesus' crucifixion, though a tragic and sorrowful event, ultimately led to the "good" of humanity's salvation. Christians all throughout the world mark Good Friday with solemnity and devotion, using a variety of religious rites and observances. Many churches offer solemn liturgical services that include the veneration of the cross, the reading of the Passion narrative, and times of silent thought and prayer. On Good Friday, several Christian traditions observe fasting and abstinence as a form of penance and spiritual reflection. Believers are urged to reflect on the meaning of Jesus' sacrifice and the tremendous consequences it has for their faith and salvation.

25 March,2024 06:44 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
People celebrating Holi in Mumbai. Pic/Atul Kamble

Rangpanchami 2024: How different it is from Holi

The Holi festival is celebrated for two to five days depending on the regional variations. As per Hindu calendar it is celebrated from Phalgun Pournima to Panchami every year. Rangpanchami (Rang meaning colours and panchami meaning fifth day) is part of the Holi festival celebrated on the fifth and the last day. Traditionally, Holi colours (gulal plus water) are played in the dark fortnight of the Hindu lunar month of Phalgun. Also Read: Holi 2024: Wishes and messages to share with family and friends on festival The celebration of Holi festival differs from state to state. It has various names such as Hori, Dolyatra in north India, Shimga, Holi, Hutashani mahotsav and Holika Dahan in the states of Goa and Maharashtra, and Kamdahan in southern India. This festival is celebrated as Dolyatra in the state of Bengal. It is also called Vasantotsav or Vasantgamanotsav, that is, the festival celebrated to welcome the Vasant (spring) season. Also Read: What is Shigmotsav festival and why do Goans celebrate it? In some states, Dhoolivandan (Holi played with power colours) is celebrated on the second day of Holi festival, which is similar to Rangpanchami in some states. In Hindu tradition it is believed that during Rangpanchami vibrant colours are thrown in air to celebrate the festival is in the purpose to activate five elements of radiant manifest colours and to touch and feel the Deities who are attracted to the respective colours.  Also Read: Holi 2024: Looking for a getaway? Here's why you should pick from these options However, the five day Holi festival is popular as festival of colours. Seeing the form of the Holi festival as prevalent today one realises that this festival is basically celebrated at a social level. Despite, generations have passed, a number of religious and cultural rites and rituals of Holi are still observed. 

25 March,2024 06:37 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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Easter 2024: Exploring the significance of celebrations

Easter is one of the most important events in the Christian calendar, marking Jesus Christ's resurrection from death. It is celebrated with excitement and reverence by millions of Christians around the world, commemorating the end of the Lenten season and the start of a new chapter in the Christian faith. Easter dates back to ancient pagan festivities that celebrated the entrance of spring and the regeneration of life. Over time, these celebrations grew linked with Christian ideas, resulting in the Easter holiday we know today. Ahead of Easter 2024, understand its significance.  Easter is a significant spiritual day for Christians. It represents the triumph of life over death, light over darkness, and optimism over despair. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is viewed as the ultimate triumph of good over evil, revealing God's ability to overcome sin and provide redemption for humanity. The Easter tale begins with the events that led to Jesus' crucifixion and death on Good Friday. According to Christian legend, Jesus was crucified for humanity's sins, killing himself to make amends for the world's misdeeds. His death caused tremendous sorrow and despair among his followers, but it was not the end of the story. Three days later, on Easter Sunday, Jesus rose from the dead, defeating death and opening the road to eternal life. His resurrection is viewed as a demonstration of the power of God's love and the promise of salvation to all who trust in him. Easter is observed in many ways around the world, with rituals and traditions reflecting the cultural diversity of Christian communities. In many countries, Easter Sunday begins with a sunrise service, which represents the start of a new day and the prospect of resurrection. Churches are decked with flowers and decorations, and hymns of praise fill the air as Christians assemble to celebrate the resurrected Christ. One of the most popular Easter customs is the Easter egg hunt, in which youngsters look for hidden eggs containing candy or small toys. The egg symbolises new life and rebirth, depicting Jesus' empty tomb following his resurrection. Decorating eggs is also a common Easter hobby, with intricate designs and vivid colours adorning eggs in both homes and churches. Another Easter ritual is the Easter lunch, which brings the family together to share a celebratory feast. Traditional Easter dishes vary by region, but they typically feature roast lamb, gammon, hot cross buns and other seasonal delicacies. The dinner is a time of friendship and gratitude, as believers gather to express their appreciation for the gift of new life in Christ.

25 March,2024 03:59 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Representation image. File pic/PTI

Lunar Eclipse 2024: What is its significance

A lunar eclipse is an astronomical event that occurs when the Moon moves into the Earth's shadow, causing the Moon to be darkened. Such an alignment occurs during an eclipse season, approximately every six months, during the full moon phase. It is also called Chandra Grahan in Indian languages.  The first eclipse of 2024 will occur early morning of March 25. This eclipse will be a penumbral lunar eclipse, offering a unique opportunity to witness the Earth's subtle influence on the Moon. This year's lunar eclipse coincides with the Holi festival in India, marking a rare occurrence.  Unlike a total lunar eclipse where the Moon is completely cloaked in Earth's shadow, a penumbral eclipse is a more delicate. Here, the Moon enters the penumbra, the faint outer region of Earth's shadow, which causes a slight dimming of the Moon's surface, but the effect is often subtle to the naked eye. The beauty of a penumbral eclipse is its accessibility. Unlike a solar eclipse, where special eye protection is crucial, viewing a lunar eclipse is completely safe for your eyes. Binoculars or a telescope can enhance your view, but the eclipse is still observable with the naked eye.  The penumbral eclipse will begin from 10:23 am on Monday morning and remain visible to all of North and South America. People in India will however not be able to view the phenomenon. The lunar eclipse will be visible in parts of Ireland, Belgium, Spain, England, South Norway, Italy, Portugal, Russia, Germany, the United States, Japan, Switzerland, Netherlands and France. In Hindu culture, lunar eclipse is considered 'sutak' period (which begins nine hours prior to the eclipse). Traditionally, temples are shut for darshan for devotees. However, as the lunar eclipse will not be visible in India on Monday, there will be no sutak period will be observed and there will be no restrictions on visiting temples.  In Hindu culture, it is typically advised to avoid performing religious activities or starting auspicious work during this time. However, the astronomy lovers mark their calendars to witness the eclipse.    

25 March,2024 01:29 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Representative Image/ Pixabay

Lunar Eclipse 2024: Understanding the meaning of full moon eclipse

On March 25, skywatchers throughout the world will witness a celestial spectacle: a full moon lunar eclipse. This is a rare astronomical event in which the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the lunar surface. The lunar eclipse is happening mere weeks away from the solar eclipse of April 8; ahead of the first lunar eclipse of 2024, understand the meaning of this fascinating phenomenon.  A full moon lunar eclipse, also known as a penumbral lunar eclipse, occurs when the Earth's outer shadow, or penumbra, partially covers the Moon. Unlike a total lunar eclipse, in which the Earth's inner shadow, known as the umbra, totally obscures the Moon, a penumbral eclipse causes a gradual dimming of the lunar surface. From a scientific standpoint, lunar eclipses provide important insights into the dynamics of our solar system. Astronomers can learn about the Earth's atmosphere and how sunlight interacts with our planet by observing how the Moon changes appearance during an eclipse. Aside from its scientific relevance, the full moon lunar eclipse is culturally and spiritually significant in many civilisations around the world. In Hinduism, for example, eclipses are thought to be unlucky occasions, causing people to perform rituals and prayers to ward off harmful spirits. Similarly, lunar eclipses were seen as omens in ancient societies such as the Maya and the Inca, indicating coming change or upheaval. Even today, some people believe lunar eclipses have mystical or supernatural properties, and they are associated with change and spiritual awakening. In astrology, the full moon lunar eclipse is frequently seen as a powerful moment for contemplation, introspection, and the release of old patterns or beliefs that are no longer serving us. It is regarded as a period of increased emotional intensity in which unresolved issues may surface, inviting us to confront and let go. From a symbolic standpoint, the full moon lunar eclipse depicts the interplay of light and shadow, representing life's basic duality. Similarly, the Earth's shadow temporarily obscures the brilliance of the full moon, and we, too, experience moments of darkness and uncertainty on our journeys. However, like the Moon rising from the Earth's shadow, the full moon lunar eclipse reminds us that even in our darkest moments, there is always the possibility of illumination and growth. It teaches us to accept life's cyclical nature, with its ebbs and flows, knowing that each eclipse is followed by a return to light.

25 March,2024 12:31 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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