Best Christmas Gift Ideas

Best Christmas Gift Ideas

Christmas is approaching and its time to world's most popular festival by exchanging gifts and greetings. Celebrations have already kicked off and people are ready to make merry and feel happy on this grand festival. Prepare different Christmas recipes, sing Christmas Carols and visit various top Christmas destinations to have a splendid memory. Explore unique gift ideas for looking out on a special gift for your friends and family. Following are some interesting gift ideas to be presented on this Christmas :

Christmas Gifts for Parents

The Christmas present for your parents should speak volumes in terms of how much you care for them. Get your mother a nice scarf for this winter, or embrace her with jewelry, trendy bags, a family collage etc. Present a nice wallet, tie, or a new shirt to your father on this Christmas.Getting into the kitchen and preparing Christmas Cookies for your parents is an outstanding idea.

Christmas Gifts for Kids

Kids simply love to have gifts. On the occasion of Christmas, children request Santa Claus to give them gifts of their choice. So go ahead and make them enjoy the moment. Present your kids new toys, chocolates, clothes, cookies, photo frames, games and whatever they wish for. Its time to grace your house with sparkling Christmas decorations to celebrate Christmas with great prompt and splendor.

Christmas Gifts for Friends

Show your friends how much they mean to you by presenting special Christmas gifts and exchanging expressive Christmas SMS messages, Good Christmas gifts for guys would be gadgets, music collection, a cologne, a jacket etc. Inexpensive Christmas gifts for girls are jewelry, nice gloves, a box of chocolates a nice perfume or a gift basket.

By : Saranjeet Singh

Rakhi Gift Shopping Discount

Rakhi Gift Shopping Discount

The festival of Rakhi is on the cards and its time for extensive gift shopping for brother & sisters. Exploring the markets for most hilarious Rakhi and searching the stores for most commendable gifts, all ends up at one common destination. Browse through an exclusive range of Rakhi gift ideas for brother/sisters. Select from wide range of Rakhi for brothers including designer Rakhis, traditional rakhis etc.

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By : Saranjeet Singh

Raksha Bandhan 2010 - Rakhi Gift Ideas for Sister/Brother

Raksha Bandhan 2010 - Rakhi Gift Ideas for Sister/Brother

India's much awaited festival of Raksha Bandhan is approaching and its time to celebrate the eternal love between brother & sister. The morning of August 24, 2010 will mark the advent of Raksha Bandhan festival this year. This eternal festivity is celebrated by sisters all over the world praying for success and long lives of their brothers. The brothers in return promise their sisters to stand beside them throughout life. Sisters are presented with gifts, cash, chocolates etc and brothers also get sweets, gifts etc from their loving sisters. In recent times, exchange of Raksha Bandhan SMS, poems and quotes have also become popular.

Here is a glimpse to the festival of Raksha Bandhan in India.

Raksha Bandhan Celebrations

The festival of Raksha Bandhan is one of the most traditional festivals celebrated with great prompt and affection all over the world. It defines a special way of expressing love of a sister for her brother. The festival of Raksha Bandhan is celebrated every year a mid-August, on Shravan Purnima. The sister on this day prepares a special Raksha Bandhan thalis for pooja with diya, roli, chawal and rakhis. On the day of Rakhi, sisters tie colorful rakhi threads on their brother's wrists. The Raksha Bandhan thread signifies the sisterly love and sublime sentiments of a girl. The brothers in turn promise to protect their sisters in all circumstances and give them gifts.

Raksha Bandhan in History

The festival of Raksha Bandhan traces its origin back in Rajput era. The women of Rajput community used to tie a thread around the wrist of brave Rajput soldiers whenever they went for wars. This thread was meant for their protection in the battlefield. The practice included tying of a thread, after applying a dash of vermilion powder on soldiers forehead. This was considered a sign of good omen and the ladies believed that it would protect their men from the enemy's blow and bring them victory. This tradition is followed till date and is a an essential theory of facts on Indian culture.

Raksha Bandhan Gift Ideas for Sister

Soft Toys - For the younger sisters, teddies and dolls serve as one of the best gifts.
Fresh Flowers - A bunch of flowers is the best gift for any girl. So, transform this Rakhi into a fragrant occasion with beautiful flower bouquets.
Apparels - Apparels for girls like ethnic kurtis, tops, shirts, skirts, etc can be the most alluring gift item for your loving sister this Rakhi.
Jewelries - Girls are usually fond of jewelry, so choose the best jewelry item for your sister this Rakhi. Go for junk jewelry or the one that is made from gold, silver or some precious stones.
Decorative Items - Beautiful show pieces and home decorative items can be the best Rakhi gift idea for sisters.
Paintings - Gifting a painting of your sister's favorite actor, actress, holiday destinations etc will be a worth idea.
Sarees - Pick up a gracious Indian saree for your sister on this Raksha Bandhan to make it a traditional memory.

Raksha Bandhan Gift Ideas for Brothers

Chocolates, Sweets and Mithais - For those who are fond of sweets, there can be no better Rakhi gift than assorted chocolates.
Apparels - Make your brother look more attractive and handsome this Rakhi by gifting him the best apparel piece like shirts, t-shirts, trousers and many more.
Accessories - Select from a wide array of men's accessories like wrist watch, perfumes, bracelets, neck tie, shaving kits, etc and express your love to your brother.
Gadgets - For hi-tech brothers, what can be a better gift than electronic gadgets like mobiles, CDs, I-pods, etc.
Perfumes & Body Deodorants - Make the occasion of Rakhi special for your bhaiya by letting him be the cynosure at every place that they visit.
Set of Wrist Watches - Let your your brother inherit the power to stay ahead of time. Surprise him with exciting watches.

By : Saranjeet Singh

Mother's Day - 10 Special Gift Ideas For Mother's Day

10 SPECIAL GIFTS IDEAS FOR MOTHER'S DAY

Mother is undoubtedly the most precious gift of god. Her ambivalent presence in our life can't be substituted by anyone. Mother's Day is a grand opportunity to honor the spirit of motherhood. It's time to tell your mother that she will always be important to you throughout your life and you will continue to love her for ever.

Here are some special gift ideas for your mother on mother's day.

1. Prepare a collage of your photographs. No joy can match the joy of a mother looking at her child. Prepare an album of your pics from childhood till date and present it to your mother along with a loving poem on mother's day.

2. Make your mom a queen. Take her for a royal stay in the palaces of Rajasthan. Choose from a number of kingly palaces like Amber palace, Umaid Bhawan palace, Lake palace etc and make your mom feel the pleasures of a queen.

3. Try to be a good cook for your mother. Get into the kitchen and prepare her favorite dish on your own. Surprise her by presenting her favorite temptation with flavors of your love and spices of your affection.

4. Accompany your mom to a splendid shopping spree. Get here to her favorite market and shop around town for her most loving belongings. Enjoy corner foods in bazaars or try out yummy sips at chill out points. Provide her with warmth of your affection and make it a memorable shopping.

5. Present a special gift to your mom. Gifts are gracious and there are numerous gift items that are apt for mother's day. Flowers, Jewelery, Sarees, Watches, Home Appliances and Chocolates are the most popular ones. Attach a touching mother's day message to make it more memorable.

6.Plan out a surprising tour with your mother. Accompany her to the destination of her choice like a hill station, adventure destination, pilgrimage destination , exotic beach, etc. Make her relish your presence and feel the warmth of your love and affection.

7. Host a family dinner and invite all your family and friends at your place. Celebrate mother's day with everyone and make the moment special by saying some golden quotes for your mother in the presence of all loved ones.

8. Hit the latest movie in the multiplex of her choice. Watch out for the flick of her favorite actor or actress and have a splendid time.


9. Decorate your home on the occasion of mother's day. Prepare some home made gift items for your mother like candles, flowers etc.

10. Pamper your mom a promise of love, care and affection. A commitment which makes her cherish the fact that she is loved and will be loved till the very end of this world.

By : Saranjeet Singh

Best Place to Celebrate Christmas in India

Goa

'The Christmas Holiday Stop'

The grand festival of Christmas is celebrated in India with extreme jubilation and enthusiasm. In spite of the nationwide celebrations, Christmas celebrations in Goa are a must experience memory for everyone. The real sensation of a festivity is felt in actual sense at Christmas celebrations in goa. The advent of Jesus Christ is celebrated with traditional joy and gaiety. In fact, it cuts across the limits of the church to spill over into the streets for all to participate irrespective of religion and communities.

This festival is a family affair for the Goans. Christmas celebrations in Goa begin around mid December. The market places are all decked with buntings and tinsel. Decorated and glittering Christmas trees are all over the place. Traditional midnight masses and glittering Christmas trees mark the joy and zeal of celebration. Carols are sung and various churches organize the midnight mass. the service on Christmas day is attended by masses dressed in new clothes. Christmas Eves are marked by family get-together at home for a memorable time together. Christmas is a time for merry-making and exchanging gifts in Goa, for Christmas is also about cakes and puddings.

Climate

The climatic conditions during Christmas are the foundations of a treasured time with family and friends for a gala celebration. Towards the evening just before sunset the sky fills with magical wonder, a sight that has left some spellbound. See the sun being swallowed by the sea and end the day with a dine at the beach. What else can anyone even dream of.

Christmas Shopping

Christmas is a perfect time for shopping in Goa. In fact, Goa gives its guests a unique shopping experience. Market places loaded with trinkets and glittering Christmas trees at every nooks and corner of the state. Pick up most popular 'I Love Goa' t-shirts, sarongs, momentos, homemade pickles and cottage handicrafts from the markets where the vendors are locals and gypsy ladies called Lamanis, who wear colorful clothes and can stun you with their fluent English. Get exquisite leather goods including purses, wallets, belts and jackets on a visit to Acron Arcade. Don't forget to buy a couple of Kashmiri carpets and shawls, that are a diamonds of Goan local market. shopping in the latter part of the day can be quite an exuberant experience in Goa.

Famous churches

Church of St. Francis Xavier– Located behind the gate of St. Paul's College at a Kuchcha Road branching off the main road.

Church of the Carmelites- Located to the southeast of the Church of St. Cajetan on a hill more or less contiguous to the hill on which the Chapel of Lady of the Mount stands.

Chapel of Lady of the Mount – Located about 2-km on the main road towards Ponda, a kuchcha road branches off towards north at a place where a cross is fixed. The road leads to a hill on which, commanding a picturesque view, is the Chapel of Lady of the Mount.

St. Cathedral Church – Located southwest of St. Cajetan's

Chapel of St. Catherine - Located to the west of the Church of St. Francis of Assisi

Nightlife

Visit the famous night clubs - Club Tito and Cafe Mambo - nestling nearby for a perfect finale to an exciting shopping day. Visit the most exotic bars and pubs to to relax from your hilarious day out. Hit the fascinating nightclubs and discos for an unmatched dancing spree. Try out your luck in the famous casinos of Goa to add spice to your celebrations. There are arrangements for night parties which are mainly attended by the tourists.

Christmas Food

The delicious cake and pudding prepared especially during Christmas mark the lip smacking dishes of Goa. Don't dare to miss the amazing snacks on Goa beaches. Enjoy a delectable Goan cuisine at the numerous shops lining the road, perfect for taking a breather before getting back to a frantic shopping spree.

Places to see

Aquada fort, Anjuna beach, Chapora fort, Mayem lake and Dudhsagar Falls

Enjoy the new year

New year celebration is the oldest of all celebrations in Goa. The white washed chapels of Goa being decorated in Christmas which continues till the beginning of new year. Experience the thrill of celebrating the new year with family and friends. Parties often last into the middle of the night after the new year bells with a belief that what one eats or does on the first day affects the luck throughout the year. New year in Goa is a grand holiday time and your trip to Goa will surely be memorable. Watch whole Goa dancing down the streets with fun and frolic.

The Evil of Adulteration

The festive season is finally here... A reason to Celebrate and Enjoy.

Times when people celebrate with oodles of energy and excitement. With Navratras going on and big festivals like Dussehra and Diwali to follow India will witness a farm festive spirit amongst its people.

These amazing and unique festival celebrations give out a strong message of

victory of Good over Evil . . .

However, there are people who overlook this strong message. Evil people, who for their own selfish benefits spoil the festivities by deplorable acts.

These people are the Adulterators. A large quantity of adulterated Khoya used in the preparation of traditional Indian sweets is passed on in the market and can even be fatal.

Why risk your life and spoil the festival spirit when you have the option of preparing lip-smacking festival dishes in the comfort of your homes?

Try out the amazing Indian Recipes which are available online and make it a safe and memorable festive season for you and your family.

Happy Festivities Everyone :-)

Ganpati Bappa Morya

Ganesh Chaturthi on 23rd August

Chants of Ganpati Bappa Morya, Pudhchya Varshi Lavkar Ya (Praise O Lord Ganesha, visit us again early next year) will be audible throughout Maharashtra and other parts of India as Ganesh Chaturthi is fast approaching.

The festival of Ganesh Chaturthi is held annually to pay respect to Lord Ganesha and celebrate his birth. It is said that no new business venture or for that matter any prayer for Hindus can be considered complete without offering prayers to Ganesha first.

Lord Ganesha holds an important place in the hearts of all the hindus throughout the world as he is considered the vigana harta (remover of obstacles in ones path). Grand celebrations will be witnessed throughout the state of Maharashtra on the occasion of Ganesha Chaturthi which falls on the 23rd of August this year.

Let us all get together in celebrating this great festival which pays respect to one of the most revered Hindu deities - Ganesha who is a Symbol of Learning for all.

Celebration of Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan is on August 5, 2009.

And one can already witness the buzz in the air. Shops selling Rakhi have sprung up in most parts of the country. Raksha Bandhan as the name suggests is Protection (Raksha) and Bandhan (Bond), two commitments made between a brother and a sister. The brother vows to protect his sister at all times and the sister reaffirms her bond with her brother by tying Rakhi on his wrists. The festival of Rakhi evokes lot of excitement and celebrations amongst the people of India and is certainly one unique festival of India which is unparalleled in the world.

Lot of exciting Gifts have already filled up the marketplace (both physical and virtual) and it would be an earnest attempt on the part of brothers all over India to please and shower their loving sisters with the Best of Rakhi Gifts on the day of Raksha Bandhan.

We wish you the best of celebrations, memories and affection on the day of Raksha Bandhan. Go win the day for your special brother/sister :-)

Happy Holi

Come Wednesday and there will be excitement and passion all over India with the Festival of Colors, Holi.

It is one festival that crosses all the man-made boundaries of caste, religion and culture and unites the people of India into a common thread of brotherhood. People come together on this day to play Holi with water and colors and greet each other by smearing colors on their faces. If you have color with you or not (you borrow), if you know the person or not (you follow). The Nike philosophy of "Just Do It" applies on this day. Holi simply unites people and promotes social harmony amongst all sections of the society.

To catch the best Holi celebrations one must witness the same in the state of Uttar Pradesh. In fact the celebrations have already begun in Brajbhoomi as we write. It is said that men from Nandagaon (Village of Lord Krishna) raid Barsana (Radha’s village) to raise a flag on the Radhika ji temple. The catch being that women from Barsana greet the men with a beating using long wooden sticks and colored water whereas the men have to be well padded as they cannot retaliate. Their only self-defense is water guns which they use at the ladies in order to distract them. This distinctive style of Holi celebrations is popularly known as 'Lathmaar Holi'.

True Colors of India wishes you all ~ Happy Holi

May God gift you all the colors of life,
colors of joy, colors of happiness,
colors of friendship,
colors of love and all other colors u want 2 paint in ur life.
Happy Holi.

The Onset of Indian Festival Season

Can You Believe This!!..It's a Durga Puja Pandal

No matter how much people are busy all the year round or living
overseas away from their families, relatives or friends, here comes the
time for indulging into only merriment, celebrations, laughter, meetings,
eating sweets and taking blessing and good wishes from elders with the
advent of October. As the year advances its verge, the festive spree
begins in air. I am back into a cheerful and exuberant state of mind. It
is the ambiance and the surroundings that will not let you remain all
gloomy and locked up in your room. Every nook and corner is so
brilliantly decorated, streets and buildings are illuminated with
multiple colored lighted strings, perfectly giving an ambience of a
necklace well studded with ruby, diamonds, gems and all those precious
stones. All you need is a walk through the market place to encounter the
real show. Every person you come across, is busy preparing and
celebrating the festive season in his own way.


It all starts with Navaratras. This festival of nine nights generally
falls at the end of September month or the early October. But one could
see the preparations for the festival from a month ago. There were
special Pujas performed in every Indian house throughout the nine nights.
For us the main are the eighth, ninth and tenth of course. For whole nine
days there are dance drama narrating the legendary story of Ramayana. The
tenth being the Dussehra, the day when Lord Rama got victory over King
Ravana, the day when truth prevailed over injustice. Gigantic effigies of
King Ravana and his two brothers are burnt to mark the victory of ‘Truth
over Evil’. For kids, the event is not less then any eye catchy movie of
Spider Man or Snow White fairy tale. It is an unbelievable spectacle.



However, During the last 6 days, the most visible celebration is
definitely the Durga Puja. Every locality has its own grand Durga Puja
Pandal where cultural programmes are organized through the day. But it is
during the evening times, the crowd flows into the Pandals. Durga Puja is
the main festival of the Bengalis but people irrespective of their native
state, pour into the pandals to enjoy.


Just like Durga Puja, Garbha Nights are common during this period. People
all dressed up in traditional  garbha dresses and dance to the tunes
of traditional folk songs. There are other shows as well where famous
personalities and celebrities perform in front of huge crowds in shows
organized by either corporates or wealthy localities.


Now that the Navaratras are over, we are all gearing up for one of the
most important Festival, the festivals of light, Diwali. It is so
beautiful just to look out of the window, a site illuminated with
thousands of lighted diyas (earthen pots) arrayed on roofs, windows,
doorsteps, magnificently decorated all official buildings, markets,
temples.  And to add to the festivities, the weather is absolutely
pleasant. As it is the start of winters here in Noth India, a slight
chill is in the air during early mornings and evenings.


Oh yes...and are you a foodie. If yes, then you are certainly not at the
right place if you are not here in India during this festival season.!!
Wait for my next writings on the mouthwatering delicacies of Indian
festivals…...

The Festival of Bonderam

Celebrated in Goa, this has been among the most awaited events of the year in the state for 25 years. An attraction during the eve of the harvest festival, Bonderam festival is a potpourri of cultures of different nationalities. The word 'Bonderam' is derived from the Portuguese word 'Bandera' which stands 'for flag'. This flag festival winds its way to the tribal age, originated as a result of quarrels within the community over ownership of farmlands. To get rid of such petty fights, different communities used colored banners to demarcate their boundaries.

With the arrival of Portuguese on these shores, a new way of showing their community was used. Instead of banners, flags of different nationalities were put on display during the colorful processions. This came to be known as Festival of Bonderam. Into its 25th year, one can judge the appeal of the festival by the number of people of different nationalities taking part in it.

At the crack of dawn, the awakening call, consisting of a three piece brass band, heralds the festival. A group of flag bearing children mark the commencement of the festival. Each gaily decorated float is punctuated in soft scores, depicting a theme. It is a showcase of talent and team effort from each ward in the village. 'Corridinho' , a form of Portuguese dance dominates the atmosphere. As a famous portuguese song drenches the atmosphere in festival mood, synchronized foot tapping and clapping makes every soul witnessing it, sway to the tunes and movement of the music. Another attraction is the performance of Goan 'Dekhnni' dancers that has a mix of Kathak and Bharath Natyam.

Ladies draped in exotic sarees perform to the beat of a song which combines the best of Indian and western to optimum. The air is stung by the next float that has heavy metal played on it, portraying the influx of DJ culture. After the floats exhibition, this Goan village rocks all night to the live bands.