Raksha Bandhan 2012 is on the Doorsteps


India is said to be a land of wonders, miracles, many religions, cultures and variety of landscapes but one thing in common is we are proud of being an Indian. Our country has a long history with many regimes ruling this vast region in the past. Every regime left their mark on the Indian culture. Festivals are the inseparable part of our culture and they bring colors and charm to our lives. Many times these festivals are celebrated by crossing the barriers of religion cast and creed.

Raksha Bandhan or Rakhi Purnima is the Hindu festival celebrated on the full moon day of Shravana. It is known by the name of Kajari Purnima in North India.  Rakhi is a sacred thread tied by a sister on the wrist of her brother, requesting to protect her during difficult situations. This fastening of Rakhi on the brother’s wrist symbolizing request to protect his sister is known as Raksha Bandhan. Sisters perform 'aarti' and apply tilak on the forehead of her brother. In return brother gives her a gift and an assurance to protect her. The thread of Rakhi which binds the love and affection of a sister is supposed to have more power and strength. It signifies the beautiful brother-sister relation with an unbreakable bond of trust and love. This festival also signifies that we should try to coexist in a harmonious way forgetting our differences, religions and castes. We must give importance to the only religion called humanity. In our everyday life we must be cooperative, helpful and kind towards each other.

This festival celebrated throughout the country differs a bit from place to place but the basic thought behind it is the same. There are many legends related to Raksha Bandhan. One of the most popular stories is that of Rani Karnawati and emperor Humayun. When Rani Karnawati, the widowed Rajput queen of the king of Chittor, realized that she could not withstand the invasion of Bahadur Shah she sent a Rakhi to emperor Humayun. The emperor in response rushed with his troops to defend Chittor's pride. There are other legends like legend of Lord Krishna and Draupadi, King Bali and goddess Laxmi etc.
Raksha Bandhan 2012, will be celebrated on 2nd of August 2012. In Mumbai, rakhi festival is called narial purnima or coconut full moon while the keralites call it as avani avittam. The rituals and way of celebration differ from region to region but the spirit of the festival is observed everywhere in the country. In modern times the rakhis changed their appearance. They are commercialized by the businessmen offering multi colored and multi design rakhi. The cost of the rakhis in present times ranges from a few rupees to even thousands of rupees. The Rakhis and rakhi gift Ideas includes sweets, chocolates, rakhi with message, rakhi cards, and raksha bandhan gift hampers. On the onset of Raksha bandhan the streets and shops of Mumbai and many major Indian cities are loaded with beautiful rakhis.

On the occasion of Raksha Bandhan special food like khewar is prepared. Rakhi 2012 is round the corner, and like every year sisters and brothers are excited to get the best rakhi gifts for each other. The variety includes from simple dori rakhi to fancy rakhi with stones, beads, zardoshi and exotic Gold and Silver Rakhis. We provide information on many interesting topics in our articles and Magic holidays our most talked about holiday package provide great holidays for a period of 25 years.

Get some Tips for your Monsoon Trip

Everyone likes the monsoon season and many of us love to enjoy the first showers of the season. After the scorching summer season we are eagerly waiting for the first showers of the monsoon season to arrive. Southwest and the northeast monsoon are the two monsoons of India.
Monsoon season in India first hits the Kerala coast in south India. It starts from south west India and proceeds further covering the whole country by June or maximum July. The southwest monsoon usually ends around October/November. The northeast monsoon is a separate monsoon that rains on the East coast. This in short means that the rainy season is observed in different months at different locations in India. Monsoon time can be a great time to visit India as tourist attractions aren't crowded, airfares can be cheaper and bargain rates are up at hotels throughout the country.

Many of the Indian destinations are popular for heavy or record rains in the country and the others offer a glamorous monsoon season. Darjeeling and Shilong in the eastern Himalayan region is the wettest area in the world. Travel to this region should definitely be avoided during monsoon time. Let us view the monsoon season from the traveler’s point of view. Travelling in monsoon season may not be that much comfortable as the summer and winter seasons. But traveling in Monsoon provides the pleasure of getting immersed in nature’s bounty and viewing the wonderful colors on display. Let us get some tips on monsoon trips and know what care should be taken while traveling in this season.

Monsoon can affect public transportation and it can affect your travel plans also. Long distance trains can run late from the scheduled time, even some train services might be cancelled due to flooding. Flights also can be cancelled or delayed. So while traveling during monsoon you have to carry sufficient stuff of eatables or other necessities in case you get held up during travel. Travelling by air can be more advantageous as the delay in reaching your destination by air is comparatively less. Also during monsoon the flight tickets are cheaper. If you are travelling by plane start earlier to reach the airport since you may get delayed because of traffic jams due to heavy rains.
 
Synthetic Clothes are the best option in rainy season as they dry out quickly. Keep extra clothing while travelling in rainy season and rainy shoes are advisable. Carry a first aid kit containing disinfectants and remedies on monsoon disorders. Since there is a chance of getting affected by one of the monsoon health hazards, try to avoid eating unhealthy food at railway stations or eatables from unauthorized vendors. Intake easily digestible food and drink bottled or boiled water only. Smallest indication or symptom of a disease also should be taken care of. Keep informed your close relatives or friends about your complete schedule of travel and keep in touch with them during your travel so that they will be aware of your location. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and predictions. 

If you are little cautious while traveling you can enjoy the monsoon trip to the utmost level since the nature is at its best during monsoon and you will not get exhausted. Magic holidays frequently provide travel tips for the travelers and holidays for 25 years at a one time paym

Guru Purnima to be celebrated on 3rd July 2012

Guru Purnima is the auspicious full moon day in the Hindu calendar month of Ashad. This day is remembered as a sacred day in memory of great ancient Rishi Vyasa who edited four Vedas, wrote eighteen Puranas, the Mahabharata and Srimad Bhagavata. This day is dedicated to Gurus who offer us the treasures of knowledge. The word Guru means one who removes darkness of ignorance from our lives. In present days Guru Purnima is celebrated in schools, Colleges and various other places where the Gurus are worshipped by their students. Great respect is offered to the Gurus and their blessings are taken by students. Some cultural programs are also arranged on this day. This year Guru Purnima will be celebrated on Tuesday 3rd July 2012.

Guru Shishya Parampara is the oldest trend in Hindu religion. In older days at a certain age shishya’s or students were sent to Gurukul, the place where Guru (teacher) used to offer knowledge to the students. There used to be a ceremony in which the Guru used to accept these students for teaching them knowledgeable things. By acquiring this knowledge the student was turned into a successful personality in his future life. The shishya’s used to obey the orders or instructions given by the Guru. After getting knowledge from the Guru, during the send of ceremony the Shishya’s used to offer Guru Dakshina asked by the Guru.

Guru Shishya Parampara still exists but is limited to learning some art like playing a musical instrument, singing or learning or even a sports activity. Our culture keeps a firm belief in the teacher-disciple tradition and believes that without the guidance of a Guru it is very difficult to acquire knowledge. Further the spiritual Gurus are offered the same status equivalent to the status of God and one has to become a Shishya of such a Guru to know the truth of the universe. The spiritual Guru is supposed to be in the vicinity of God. This Guru Shishya tradition is beyond the boundaries of religion, cast and creed. This relationship between Guru and disciple is considered to be sacred. It is independent of age and is purely spiritual in nature. It is based on Spiritual Knowledge and Practice.  



Guru Purnima is celebrated to review a person’s progress in the preceding year and for a Shishya it is the day to review his progress on the spiritual path. The Guru guides the student to renew his determination and keep a focus on his goal. This festival is celebrated throughout India and in many parts of Maharashtra like shirdi, Akkalkot and Ganagapur but the grand celebrations take place at Shirdi. This year Shri Saibaba Sansthan Trust in Shirdi will be celebrating Guru Purnima Utsav from 2nd of July to 4th of July. This is the best time to visit Shirdi. One can honor the Guru Shri Sai Baba and seek his special blessing.

On the day of Guru Purnima, we can offer our respects towards the Gurus by chanting the ideal prayer dedicated to the Gurus. Guru Brahma Gurur Vishnu, Guru Devo Maheshwaraha, Guru Saakshat Para Brahma, Tasmai Sree Gurave Namaha. It means I salute the guru who is equivalent in all respects to God. We at Magic Holidays  pay our respects to the Guru and ask for his blessings to continue providing best Holiday packages for a period of 25 years against a one time payment.

Celebrate and pay respects on Father’s Day coming on 17th June 2012

Father and mother are two pillars on which the small institution called family is standing firmly. In order to honor fathers worldwide and celebrate fatherhood or paternal bonds of father, Father’s day is celebrated every year on third Sunday of June. This special day is dedicated to all fathers. Some of the countries also celebrate this day on different days. Father and mother play many roles like ultimate caretakers, protectors and teachers of their children. So they are honored once every year.    

The basic idea of celebrating this day was to compliment Mothers Day. The celebrations of father’s day include feasting, merry making and giving fathers day gifts. As a mark of respect, gratitude and love gifts are given to fathers. Now a day’s various gifts are available in the market to offer to Fathers on this special day and express sincere feelings of thanks giving to fathers. There are many ways to celebrate the day like arranging his favorite food and drinks, taking him out for a movie or theatre. This day should be celebrated in such a way that your father should feel proud and special on the day. If you want to make the day a grand celebration then all your family members can go for outing to a resort or one day picnic spot and celebrate this special day there. For wishing him good health and long life you can send a greeting card well in advance of the special day.

Celebrating certain days dedicated to particular persons in the society is a well saturated idea in the European and American society. Such type of dedicated day celebrations originated mostly from the western countries. But the concept is accepted and followed throughout the world including Asian countries like India. In India this year’s father’s day will be celebrated on 17th of June. Father’s day concept in the Indian cities is also spreading to the towns and villages. In Indian society, father and mother are given prime importance since historic times. Even though special days are not allotted to pay respects in India generally parents are respected all the time. In India the common gifts given on father’s day are bouquets, wine bottles, greeting cards and wrist watches. Many places host cultural programs to honor dads. For the children living away from their parents this day keeps a lot of importance and they pay their respects by sending e cards and online messages.

Parents take lots of pains in bringing up their children to a certain level of respectful life. The Fathers apart from their religion, cast, and geographical location are very much similar in one thing, they have a heart which can absorb every sorrow, every pain in life and still always look forward for the well being of their children. He is not expressive like mothers, who expresses her joy and sorrow instantly. He is the person who keeps all his pains inside his heart and strives only for the well being of his kids. This year on 17th June which is the auspicious father’s day, we salute all the fathers of the world. Those who want to make this years fathers day very special, can gift their fathers a special gift called Magic Holidays. The gift will surely be remembered for many years.

Know more about composting day celebrated on 29th May

We consume lots of food items in a day and what remains in the kitchen is the food scrap or the remains of the cooked food, vegetables, fruits etc.  These remains are dumped into the waste bins to be thrown away the next day. This food scrap from every home is collectively gathered and thrown in the landfills. But instead of throwing these valuable food waste ingredients we can utilize them to make compost a useful product for nourishing the plants. Composting is nothing but recycling the wastage from food items to convert it into some usable form like fertilizers. According to the theme “Compost while Cooking”  put the following things like Apple cores, banana peels, melon and citrus rinds, egg shells, coffee grinds, burned toast, cooked rice, potato peelings and corn cobs in a compost bin. To know more we will learn about composting day in details.

Composting Day is a great opportunity to "Go Green" and save the environment from future dangers. Composting is easy, makes you feel good by knowing that you are doing your share of activities to keep our environment cleaner. You might already know that you can compost garden and yard vegetation and kitchen (vegetable) scraps. But, you must be aware that you can also recycle many other things like papers, untreated wood, and cardboard. Cardboard paper towel and toilet paper holders are great items to compost. The compost which you prepare can be supplied to your plants, which is a healthy food for them at the same time it maintains moisture in the soil. If you don’t have your own garden then you can give it to your friends or relatives.

Nowadays it is observed that Gardeners and homeowners are increasingly turning to composting. This acceptance of the composting activity is the result of three things. After continuous efforts by the environmentalists to educate the masses to go green and save nature many people are becoming environmentally conscious. They have started to keep the valuable resources of composting like reusable kitchen scraps out of the waste track. Composting saves the expenses of buying fertilizers. Even if you don’t need the compost which you produce you can sell it. If you are concerned about the quality of the food available in the market you can go for gardening. And use the compost which is prepared from the kitchen wastage.

Let us see what compost materials can be used in composter or garden compost piles. To turn the scrap into better compost a proper mixture of “Browns” and “Greens” is required. Greens or the items containing Nitrogen start the decomposition process and keeps it continued. Browns are also called Carbon and as a rule Nitrogen to Carbon ratio should be 4:1. That means the mix should contain 4 parts of Greens and 1 part of Brown materials. Generally to achieve good rate of decomposition the green materials should be in the range of 60% to 80%. If the compost is containing more types of materials the plants will get more nutrients from it. To list a few green materials they are dead dried weeds, flowers, leaves, black and white newspaper, straw or hay, wood ash, wood chips and shavings. The green materials are kitchen fruit scraps, Banana peels, Orange peels, Egg shells, Grass clippings, Kitchen vegetable scraps, Stale bread, Leftover pizza etc. In order to make the compost pH neutral you have to add soil from time to time. Avoid adding any type of toxic material.

If we think seriously on the above subject and start its practical implementations in every day life then it will be the best way to celebrate the Composting Day. We at Magic Holidays   try to spread awareness among the readers about the important issues one has to think over seriously. And our vacation plan offers long time vacations for a one time payment.





Mother's Day


Mother's Day is a celebration that honors mothers and motherhood, maternal bonds, and the influence of mothers in society. It is celebrated on various days in many parts of the world, most commonly in March, April, or May. It complements Father's Day, a celebration honoring fathers.

Mums have been around forever, their efforts taken much for granted and seldom acknowledged. But there is a day when mothers are made much of - with gifts, flowers, cards and calls that say "Hey Mum, I do love you (never mind the shouting, snapping and snarling)!" And mums being Mums, they shed a tear, grin and bear the attention and wait for their kids to revert to proto-typical every day behavior!

Mother’s Day was first celebrated in ancient Greece during the Spring Festivities honoring Rhea, the Mother of the Gods. Rhea was lucky- her kids were super-human and she the mother of all mothers!

Celebrations of mothers and motherhood occur throughout the world. Many of these trace back to ancient festivals. The modern Mother's Day has been assimilated into Indian culture , and it is celebrated on every year on second Sunday of May. In India mothers are considered as god to their children. The Indians do not celebrate the occasion as a religious one, but do their best to thank their mothers for care and love.

That is a tradition in India to give a highest position to mothers. As the spiritual background is so effective in India so Indians celebrates this day with lots of respect to their mothers.

Being a full-time mother is one of the highest salaried jobs... since the payment is pure love. -Mildred B. Vermont

"M" is for the million things she gave me,
"O" means only that she's growing old,
"T" is for the tears she shed to save me,
"H" is for her heart of purest gold,
"E" is for her eyes, with love-light shining,
"R" means right, and right she'll always be.

Mothers Day wishes from Magic Holidays. 
Give your mom a special gift Magic Holidays membership of 25 years .

Maharashtra Day & Labour Day 2012

1sy May is celebrated in India as Maharashtra Day. On 1st may 1960 Maharashtra gained its statehood, when the state Saurashtra was divided into two states, Maharashtra and Gujurat. Its now a public holiday for people in Maharashtra.It is celebrated as Maharashtra day, in Maharashtra and as a labor day all over India.


Maharashtra day has a short history and its significance but international it is celebrated as an International Worker's day. It signifies the struggle of the historic people throughout the world. It is celebrated in every country expect United States, South Africa and Canada. But it was United States who proposed to this act on a fight over 8 hours working per day. They wanted every working person to work only for 8 hours per day and not more than that and to treat them as a person not a machine.

In 1984, a resolution was passed by the Federation of Organized Traders and Labor Unions to legalize 8 hours working per day for every working individual. It worked for some period but then it failed to implement throughout. In 1986, the resolution called for a strike in order to attend their goals and to implement it at earliest. 
 But it took a long time for its implementation. Due to the strike workers were forced to work Ten, Twelve and Fourteen hours a day. Due to this the Movement grew rapidly involving more than 2, 50,000 workers into the protest. Everyone came forward protesting to legalize the act.

The history of May Day, the state, business, mainstream unions and the media have covered up an entire legacy of dissent in this country. They are terrified of what a similarly militant and organized movement could accomplish today, and they suppress the seeds of such organization whenever and wherever they can. As workers, we must recognize and commemorate May Day not only for it's historical significance, but also as a time to organize around issues of vital importance to working-class people today.

As IWW songwriter Joe Hill wrote in one of his most powerful songs:


Workers of the world, awaken!
Rise in all your splendid might
Take the wealth that you are making,
It belongs to you by right.
No one will for bread be crying
We'll have freedom, love and health,
When the grand red flag is flying
In the Workers' Commonwealth.

Happy Maharashtra Day from Magic holidays.

Akshaya Tritiya Celebrations

Akshaya Tritiya is one of the sacred three and a half or sade teen Muhurats as per Hindu religion. The sade teen Mahurats or auspicious timing signifies a lot of importance in Hindu religion. There are two kinds of Mahurats fixed Mahurats coming in particular months of the year and other Mahurats which are spread throughout the year. This Mahurat or Muhurta is supposed to be the right time to begin new ventures and buy precious things. It is a firm belief that any meaningful activity started on this day would be fruitful. 

Akshaya Tritiya falls on the third day of the bright half of Vaishakh as per Hindu calendar which is normally in the month April or May, when the Sun and Moon are in exaltation. As per the Hindu belief, Thretha Yuga was started on this day. Also the birthday of Lord Parasurama the sixth incarantion of Lord Sri Maha Vishnu is observed on the day of Akshaya Tritiya, This year’s Akshaya Tritiya or Akha Teej 2012 is coming on Tuesday 24th April. The word "Akshaya" means eternal or imperishable one which never perishes or diminishes. It is believed that doing good deeds like helping the poor, donating money etc on this day brings ‘Punya’ for life time. Other ways of celebrating Akshay Tritiya includes bathing in holy rivers, conducting special Poojas and offering prayers in the Vishnu temples. Lakshmi Kubera homa (religious offering) done on this day is supposed to bring life long prosperity.  

Akshaya Tritiya is believed to bring good luck and success. Most people purchase Gold on this day as it is believed that buying Gold on this day brings prosperity and more wealth in future. So it is a custom to buy valuables like gold, silver, diamonds or precious stones and property on this auspicious day. The day is also thought to be good for arranging weddings, beginning new business ventures and even going for long journeys. People born on this day are believed to be brilliant and are supposed to shine in their life for doing some extra ordinary things. Some of the great people born on Akshay Tritiya are Adi Shankaracharya, Swami Chinmayananda and Lord Buddha.

In Maharashtra on this particular day crowd is observed at the gold shops for purchasing gold. In recent years since gold has reached a record high value it is becoming difficult for the common man to purchase gold. Then also to keep the trend intact people are buying whatever minimum fraction of gold they can buy. If you are not able to buy gold buy something valuable on this day of Akshaya Tritiya. 

On the coming auspicious day of Akshay Tritiya you can buy something which will prove to be valuable to your family or relatives still not hurting your pocket. Buy Magic holidays a valuable gift to your dear ones which is in the reach of average man with benefits lasting for a longer period. The essence of benefits of this vacation package called Magic Holidays will last for years to come.  
 

Indian Premier League 2012 will be more interesting than expected

Indian Premier League 2012 is making hoards of news headlines in the newspapers. It is stuffing pages of newspapers with highlights of the matches. Indian Premier League known much popularly as IPL is the main topic of the discussions held at offices, public places and educational institutions in India. 

This years IPL was inaugurated in a glittering ceremony on 3rd of April at YMCA grounds in Chennai. Many top celebrities including pop star Katy Perry and Amitabh Bachchan took part in the grand celebrations. The opening match of this year’s IPL was held between Chennai Super kings and Mumbai Indians. The matches will be held at different venues in India. There will be nine teams playing in the IPL 2012. The teams playing this season are Mumbai Indians, Royal challengers Bangalore, Hyderabad Deccan Chargers, Chennai super kings, Delhi Daredevils, Kings eleven Punjab, Kolkata night riders, Rajasthan Royals and Pune Warriors India. The auction of players was held on 4th February 2012 at ITC Royal Gardenia in Bengaluru. IPL authority increased number of players from 30 to 33 in each squad. The competition is gaining more and more popularity in India as well as other countries.

Many positive changes in the teams playing in IPL this year have increased the excitement of the competition. Delhi Daredevils will try to be on the winning track with the additions of Mahela Jayawardene and dashing England batsman Kevin Petersen. This two will be strengthening Delhi’s batting side. In the inauguration match itself Mumbai had stunned Chennai the most consistent side and the two time winners of IPL title in 2010 and 2011. But Chennai restored very fast from this shock defeating Hyderabad Deccan chargers by 74 runs. Deccan chargers were the winners of the 2009 IPL edition. Ravindra Jadeja showing a brilliant all round performance at Visakhapatnam has raised more expectations from his team. Delhi Daredevils have pondered the inspirations of Royal Challenges Bangalore. Bravo and Raina are also supposed to provide great entertainment by giving splendid performances. The only concern of Chennai super kings is the skipper’s indifferent form. Recently Mumbai had given a real blow to Deccan chargers with an unexpected win by 5 wickets.

The Indian Premier League is an overwhelming brain child of Shri Lalit Modi the then Vice President of Board of Cricket Control in India (BCCI). He was inspired by English Premier League and other European leagues to start IPL in India. The format of Twenty-Twenty cricket had emerged as a successful phenomenon after the T20 cricket world cup was won by India. Indian cricket lovers were highly impressed with the shortest version of T20 cricket match style. The Indian Cricket Board approved it a few months back. 

The Indian Premier League is looked upon as a very good opportunity as far as entertainment and money making is concerned. It has become more popular in less time due to speed, thrill and entertainment packed in the matches. IPL is also proving to be a blessing for the rising cricket stars of India who can show their talent and get quick fame in short time by throwing a dazzling performance in the competition. IPL will quench your thirst of cricket and if you want to fulfill your travel related thirst then avail Magic Holidays  the vacation package providing vacation for twenty five years on a one time inflation free payment.    

Hanuman Jayanti will be Celebrated on 6 April in 2012

 Yatra raghunatha kirtanam;
Tatra tatra kritha masthakanjalim;
Bhaspavaari paripurna lochanam;
Maarutim namata raakshasanthakam
 Meaning : "We bow to Maruti, Sri Hanuman, who stands with his palms folded above his forehead, with a torrent of tears flowing down his eyes wherever the Names of Lord Rama are sung". 
 
Sri Hanuman is worshipped all over India-either alone or together with Sri Rama. Every temple of Sri Rama has the murti or idol of Sri Hanuman. Hanuman is the Avatara of Lord Shiva. He was born of the Wind-God and Anjani Devi. His other names are Pavanasuta, Marutsuta, Pavankumar, Bajrangabali and Mahavira.

 
He is the living embodiment of Ram-Nam. He was an ideal selfless worker, a true Karma Yogi who worked desirelessly and dynamically. He was a great devotee and an exceptional Brahmachari or celibate. He served Sri Rama with pure love and devotion, without expecting any fruit in return. He lived to serve Sri Rama. He was humble, brave and wise. He possessed all the divine virtues. He did what others could not do-crossing the ocean simply by uttering Ram-Nam, burning the city of Lanka, and bringing the sanjeevini herb and restoring Lakshmana to life again. He brought Sri Rama and Lakshmana from the nether world after killing Ahiravana.

 
To mark the birth of Lord Hanuman, Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated all over India in the month of Chaitra in Hindu calendar. The great Hanuman is known for its great strength, power and his immortal devotion towards Lord Rama. He is considered to be a greatest follower of Lord Rama and played a crucial role in his life. He is also known as Sankat Mochan who people remember in both good and bad times. He is considered to be as one of the most powerful Hindu gods in India.

 
In Andhra, Hanuman Jayanthi is celebrated for 41-days which starts on Chaitra Purnima and ends on the tenth day during Krishna Paksha in Vaishakha month. In Andhra Pradesh devotees begin 41-days Deeksha on Chaitra Purnima and conclude it on Hanuman Jayanthi day. 

 
It is believed that Hanuman was born at Sunrise. On Hanuman Jayanti day temples start spiritual discourses at dawn before Sunrise and stop it after Sunrise. 

 
Hanuman, an ardent devotee of Lord Rama and Sita himself, is also known as Anjaneya.
Hanuman Jayanti ki  bahot  bahot  Shubhkamnaye from Timeshare product Magic Holidays.

Sri Ram Navami is celebrated with great devotion in India


Shri Ram Navami is the festival which is celebrated in most parts of India with great devotion. Sri Ram Navami is celebrated every year on the ninth day of Chaitra month. It marks the end of nine day festival known as Chaitra Navratri or Vasanta Navratri. On this day religious processions are taken out through the streets.
 
Ram Navami is the auspicious day on which Sri Rama was born in Ayodhya. On this day devotees observe fast and visit temples to offer prayers. According to the religious texts, it is advised to keep Ram Navami Vrath. It is easy means of gaining happiness in material world and achieving salvation. This Vrath includes performing religious pooja and keeping a strict fast on the day of Ram Navami. Many Lord Ram temples celebrate this festival for nine days beginning from Gudi padwa day. It is celebrated by periodic readings of Ramayana and arranging spiritual lectures called Kirtans. During these nine days some people ensure to recite Ramraksha eleven times every day. The fairs hosted during Ram Navami festival displays excellent fireworks.

 
Ayodhya observes a massive celebration of love and devotion of the devotees towards their hero. During Ram Navami mela worship begins with a holy bath taken early morning and chanting Vedic mantras which are dedicated to Vishnu. People in large numbers offer flowers, fruits and sweets to the deity. The devotees maintain a fast which is broken at midnight by eating fruits. Beautifully decorated Rath yatras or chariot processions are taken through the town. The prime attraction of these processions are the chariots with astonishing decorations carrying four people assumed to be Lord Ram, Sita, Laxman and his favorite disciple Hanuman. These chariots are followed by people dressed like traditional army of Lord Ram. These Rath yatra’s are continued for two days accompanied by devotees. Songs describing Ram raj are sung during the procession. Places like Ujjain and Rameshwaram also draw many devotees from different parts of the country during Ram Navami. A special bath is taken in the sea of Rameshwaram before praying at the Ramanathaswamy temple. 

 
In many regions of India especially Bihar and Uttar Pradesh public gatherings called sat-sangs are organized on this day. These sat-sangs or the company of the knowledgeable persons provides an opportunity for the common masses to acquire more knowledge. They guide people regarding how to spend their life in more perfect manner. Along with Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh Ram Navami is also celebrated with great enthusiasm in Pondicherry. Both the places have been mentioned in Ramayana.

 
This years Ram Navami will be celebrated on 1st of April 2012. It will be the best time to make a Sankalpa in your life. On this day set some goals in your life to help the needy persons in your community or society. For your family or the dear ones gift something so that they will enjoy the valuable moments of life. Magic Holidays  is an option to provide them a vacation every year for a period of twenty five years.

Celebrate Gudi Padwa - Ugadi - Cheti Chand - Baisakhi

The first Holy festival which marks the beginning of the New Year, new month and new day for the Hindus falls on Chaitra Shukla Pratipada. It is known as Gudhi Padwa (in Maharashtra), Ugadi (in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh). [In other parts of country it is celebrated during Nau Roz (Kashmir), Baisakhi (Punjab), Cheti Chand (Sindhi), Naba Barsha (Bengal), Goru Bihu (Assam), Puthandu (Tamil Nadu), Vishu (Kerala)



About Gudi Padwa celebrations
India being a multi cultural, multi religious country, New Year is celebrated at different times as per regional calendars. First of January according to Christian calendar is celebrated throughout India as common New Years celebrations. Nouruz is Parsi New Year celebrated by Parsi community. The first day of Marathi calendars month Chaitra or Gudi Padwa is celebrated in Maharashtra as Marathi New year celebrations. The premises in and around the houses are cleaned and decorated in traditional way by making rangoli designs at entrance of the houses. Entrance doors of the houses are decorated with Torans made from mango leaves, flowers and rice. The most important part of the celebrations is to raise Gudi. Gudi’s are seen erected on the balconies or windows of most of the houses. A Gudi is a long stick with a brand new piece of cloth placed under a copper kalash. The festival received its name Gudi padwa from this Gudi’s. Traditionally, bitter leaves of neem tree are eaten on this day. A paste of crushed neem leaves, cumin seeds, jaggery and salt is taken prior eating any food in the morning. Special sweets called puran poli containing sweet stuff puran inside are prepared on this day. Gudi Padwa is considered a very auspicious day in Maharashtra. New ventures are undertaken; poojas are performed to make houses free from all evils. Gold is purchased on this day as this day is considered among the three and half Muhurtas of Hindu religion. There are some legends behind celebration of Gudi Padwa. It is said that the Universe was created by Brahma on this very special day and Satyuga or the Age of Truth and Justice began on this day.



How Gudi Padwa is celebrated in Maharashtra

Being a Maharashtrian festival it is celebrated with enthusiasm at many places in the state. Mumbai observes a festive mood during this day with Marathi dominated areas taking out huge processions called Shobha Yatras. The participants are in traditional Marathi costumes like men in Sadra, Payjama and women with the Navwari sari decorated with conventional ornaments. The Shobha Yatra proceeds with the typical Marathi music and Lezim at the background. Thane as well is not lagging behind, regarding the Gudi padwa celebrations. Men and women in saffron turbans and navvari saris dance on the rhythm of music. Goa having majority Hindus is also celebrating Gudi Padwa. Shirdi celebrates this festival by keeping the spiritual aspects in mind.


This years Gudi Padwa will be celebrated on Friday 23rd March. What are your plans about buying some precious things on the sacred time of the three and half Muhurtas. This year instead of purchasing the routine gifts you can go for a gift which will be remembered for a longer time. Celebrate Gudi Padwa  by buying the vacation package of Magic Holidays  for a long period of 25 years.    

Know more about Women’s Day celebrations around the globe


It is said that there is always a woman behind every successful man. In order to honor women around the globe, Women’s Day is celebrated world wide to appreciate their efforts. Like every year this year also, Women’s Day will be celebrated on 8th of March. The United Nations have declared a theme “Empower Women – End Hunger and Poverty” for International Women’s Day 2012. The theme can be different in every country. In many countries, International Women's Day is an occasion to honor and praise women for their accomplishments. This year the inspiring women will be cheered up by sending a free international Women’s Day e - Card.   The women, who have made efforts that will bring some positive changes in the fight against hunger and poverty, will also be honored. Such women will be awarded with a special award.

Different days like Fathers Day, Mother’s Day, Women’s Day are celebrated in order to appreciate and honor the role of that particular person in the society. Women’s day was initially called International Working Women’s Day celebrated every year on 8th of March. The celebrations range from showing appreciation and respect towards women’s social, economic and political achievements. The real tribute to the woman around us can be paid by assigning her a place of dignity in the society, providing equal rights like men and recognition of her achievements in her life. This will be the best way to cheer up the encouraging women and celebrate coming Woman’s day. 

Another new trend which has become common is gifting the lady near and dear to you like your mother, sister, grandmother or fiancée with exclusive gifts. The first national Women's Day was observed on 28 February 1909 in the United States. To mark the economic, political and social achievements of women, lots of events are hosted on this day as well as throughout March. This day is celebrated in different manners worldwide. In some of the countries like Cameroon, Romania and Bulgaria it is customary to give flowers and small gifts to the women.
In Italy men give yellow mimosa flowers to women. Whereas these flowers and chocolates are also the most common Mother’s day presents in Russia and Albania. In countries like Portugal, groups of women usually celebrate woman’s day by arranging only ladies dinners and parties on the night of 8th March.

In India we look at woman as the symbol of strength. Her courage, natural compassion, attitude of fighting the odd situations in life all must be praised. Coming Women’s Day choose your absolute woman from a list, representing above qualities and give her a gift of lifetime. You might be wondering about that gift, which can be remembered for the rest of her life. It will prove to be a special gift and a salute to the Absolute woman on the Woman’s Day. Celebrate coming Women’s Day by gifting a vacation package called Magic Holidays, offering vacations for a period of twenty five years on one time inflation free payment.

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Make your coming Holi colorful with the colors of Magic Holidays


Festivals make our lives colorful and Holi especially brings color to our lives. Popularly known as the festival of colors, Holi is a festival of joy and enthusiasm, which builds an atmosphere of brotherhood. Celebrate coming Holi festival by sharing the colors of Magic Holidays, with someone whom you love from the bottom of your heart.

In different places Holi is celebrated with different names, in Nepal it is called ‘Phagu’. In Kerala it is locally called Ukkuli in Konkani or Manjal Kuli in Malayalam. In Maharashtra, Holi is mainly associated with the burning of Holika. A bonfire is lit in the main squares of the villages and colonies. People gather around the bonfire and celebrate the event with singing and dancing, which is symbolic of the victory of good over evil. In Gujarat also bonfire is lit in the central places of the villages or towns. People gather around the bonfire and celebrate the event with singing and dancing. The number of days of celebrating holi range from two days to six days. The places like Mathura and Vrindavan are popular for the celebrations of Holi and attract tourists from other countries also. 

But present day Holi is different from its original concept. In the major Indian cities Holi has become the favorite festival of the young generation. The two days holiday is mostly utilized having fun and frolic. The day next to holi which in many places called rangapanchami is the feast for the youth. Whole day is enjoyed in getting colored with the colors of Holi. Holi is best celebrated in many residential societies, in the form of social get together. Members of all ages spend the day happily together, nicely coloring each other consuming the special drink of the day called Bhang along with sweets and snacks. Even in some of the societies color is prepared in tanks and the participants are literally dipped in them. Further some entertainment games are also arranged to add to the fun of the day. 

Let us have brief information about the traditional Holi celebrations, still observed in some places of India. Traditional Holi supposed to be celebrated in the spring season, during which the weather changes abruptly causing viral fever. In order to counter the spreading of the illness, colored powders composed of Neem, Kumkum, Haldi, and Bilva are supposed to be thrown on each other. A special drink called Thandai made of almonds, pistachios, rose petals and Bhang is prepared and distributed to the Holi celebrators. The wet colors are supposed to be traditional flowers of Palash, boiled and soaked in water to produce yellow color having medicinal qualities. Unfortunately we are moving away from the ethics of the festival, by commercializing the festival using synthetic colors which may prove to be toxic and harmful to the skin and eyes. Try to enjoy your coming Holi with natural colors, making it an eco friendly celebration. 

So what are you thinking of, color your special persons coming Holi festival with the colors of Magic Holidays and make his/her future vacations truly memorable.