For the first time in its 68 year history, minority communities in Pakistan including Hindus and Christians will have a national holiday observed on their important festivals. The total number of Christians in Pakistan was estimated at 2.5 million in 2005, which is around 1.6 per cent of the population.
The resolution was moved by Dr Ramesh Kumar Vankwani, an elected Hindu lawmaker of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League from Sindh. Continue Reading
Holi is celebrated during the spring season in India and is among the biggest Hindu festivals, especially in the northern region. It falls on the first day of krishnapaksh(dark fortnight) of Phalgun month according to the Hindu calendar, which coincides with February or March of the Western calendar. On the previous day — purnima or full Moon day — devotees observe Holika Dahan by setting alight large bonfires to signify the burning of evil. In different parts of India, Holi is called by different names. In West Bengal and Odisha, it is observed as Dol Jatra. Continue Reading
