Holi, one of India’s most vibrant and joyous festivals, will be celebrated on March 14, 2025. The festival, which marks the victory of good over evil and the arrival of spring, is observed on the Purnima (full moon) day of the Hindu month of Phalguna.

The festival kicks off with Holika Dahan or Choti Holi on March 13, 2025. This ritual involves lighting a bonfire, symbolizing the burning away of negativity. The following day, March 14, is celebrated as Holi, when people come together to play with colors, sing, dance, and enjoy festive gatherings.

Choti Holi (Holika Dahan) – March 13, 2025

Holika Dahan is a significant ritual that takes place on the night before Holi. This event commemorates the legend of Prahlad and Holika, symbolizing the triumph of righteousness. Community bonfires are lit to signify the end of evil and the ushering in of positivity and renewal.

• Purnima Tithi Begins – 10:35 AM on March 13, 2025
• Purnima Tithi Ends – 12:23 PM on March 14, 2025

Holi – March 14, 2025

The main celebration takes place the next day, where people across the country engage in playing with Gulaal (colored powders), music, dance, and festive feasts. Holi is especially grand in regions like Mathura and Vrindavan, which hold historical significance with Lord Krishna. Other cities like Jaipur, Pushkar, and Udaipur also host extravagant and tourist-friendly Holi celebrations.

Regional and Cultural Celebrations

Holi is celebrated with different traditions across India:

• Lathmar Holi in Barsana and Nandgaon, where women playfully beat men with sticks.
• Braj Holi in Mathura and Vrindavan, deeply rooted in Krishna’s legends.
• Royal Holi in Rajasthan, where traditional festivities are accompanied by grand celebrations in palaces.

Holi 2025 is set to bring colors, joy, and festive spirit across India. With Choti Holi on March 13 and Holi on March 14, people will come together to spread happiness, enjoy delicious sweets, and celebrate the essence of togetherness.

International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on March 8, is a global event that recognizes the social, economic, cultural, and political accomplishments of women. The day also serves as a call to action for gender equality, urging individuals and communities to work towards a more just and inclusive world.

For students, International Women’s Day is an opportunity to reflect on the impact women have had on shaping society. It’s a time to raise awareness about gender equality issues and inspire positive change. Here, we provide speech ideas and powerful slogans that students can use to mark this special occasion.

Powerful speech ideas for students

1. A Tribute to the Spirit of Indian Women

“Today, we celebrate the indomitable spirit of Indian women, who are breaking barriers and shaping our nation’s future.”

2. From Ancient Wisdom to Modern Leadership

“From ancient scholars like Gargi to modern-day leaders, Indian women have consistently demonstrated strength, resilience, and wisdom.”

3. Recognizing Women’s Role in Society

“We acknowledge the tireless efforts of our mothers, sisters, and daughters, who balance tradition and modernity with remarkable grace.”

4. Advocating for Equal Opportunities

“Let us reaffirm our commitment to ensuring equal opportunities for women in education, employment, and leadership roles across India.”

5. Addressing Gender-Based Challenges

“We must address the persistent challenges of gender-based violence and discrimination, striving for a safer and more equitable society.”

6. Empowering Women for a Stronger Nation

“Empowering women is not just a moral imperative but a crucial step towards realising India’s full potential as a global leader.”

7. Women Driving Grassroots Change

“We salute the women in our villages and cities who are driving change at the grassroots level, empowering their communities.”

8. Celebrating Women Entrepreneurs

“Let us celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit of Indian women, who are creating jobs and contributing to our nation’s economic growth.”

9. Preserving Culture and Heritage

“We recognise the vital role of women in preserving our cultural heritage and passing on our values to future generations.”

10. A Pledge for Inclusivity

“On this International Women’s Day, let us pledge to build a more inclusive and just India, where every woman can thrive and reach her dreams.”

Speech on International Women’s Day

Good morning, respected teachers, fellow students, and guests.

Today, we gather to celebrate a special occasion that honors the achievements, struggles, and triumphs of women across the world – International Women’s Day. Celebrated on March 8th, this day is not just a moment of appreciation but a reminder of the ongoing fight for gender equality. It recognizes the tremendous contributions of women to society while urging all of us to ensure their rights, dignity, and opportunities.

The need for action

International Women’s Day is more than a celebration. It is a call to action – to break stereotypes, remove barriers, and promote an inclusive society where women can thrive without limitations. It is an opportunity to reflect on how far we have come and how much further we still need to go.

Women who inspired change

India has witnessed the inspiring contributions of strong women who shaped its history and continue to influence its future. From Rani Lakshmi Bai, a fearless warrior, to Indira Gandhi, a powerful political leader, and Kalpana Chawla, a pioneering astronaut—Indian women have shattered barriers across all fields. Their courage, intelligence, and resilience serve as a beacon of hope for future generations.

The road ahead

Despite progress, gender discrimination, unequal pay, and violence against women remain significant challenges. True progress can only be achieved when women have equal access to education, healthcare, employment, and leadership opportunities.

As Gloria Steinem, a renowned feminist, once said: “The story of women’s struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organization, but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights.”

On this International Women’s Day, let us not only celebrate but also commit to creating a future where every woman can thrive. Let’s raise our voices for equality, break barriers, and uplift one another.

Muslims worldwide are preparing to observe Ramadan 2025, a sacred period of fasting, prayer, and reflection. The Islamic month begins with the sighting of the crescent moon, which is expected to be observed on February 28, 2025, in countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, the UK, and the US. If confirmed, fasting will commence on March 1, 2025.

Meanwhile, in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, the moon sighting is anticipated on March 1, meaning Ramadan could begin on March 2 or March 3, depending on visibility.

Projected Sehri and Iftar timings in major Indian cities for March 1, 2025

These timings are subject to change, so it is advisable to confirm with local mosques for precise timings.

Ramadan: A time for spiritual reflection and unity

Ramadan holds deep significance for Muslims, fostering self-discipline, patience, and gratitude. It also strengthens community bonds through special prayers, charitable acts, and shared meals. In India, Ramadan is marked by vibrant cultural traditions, including diverse regional cuisines and communal gatherings, promoting a spirit of unity and spiritual renewal.

As the month approaches, families begin preparations for Sehri and Iftar meals, often including traditional delicacies such as dates, kebabs, biryanis, and sweets like phirni and sheer kurma.

Muslims worldwide look forward to this blessed period of fasting and worship, embracing the teachings of compassion and generosity that define Ramadan.