Mikoshi Splashes into Sea in Wakayama Festival

The festival began with a lively parade through the port town, setting an energetic tone for the day’s events. Participants then moved into the sea, where they offered prayers for a bountiful catch and safe voyages, honoring the traditions of their community.

Following the prayers, the mikoshi—a sacred portable shrine—was carefully placed onto a boat. Young men took on the responsibility of rowing the mikoshi back to the shrine, demonstrating strength and unity.

At the port, another small boat crewed by young men awaited the arrival of the mikoshi. The celebration reached its climax as the mikoshi arrived at the pier and was plunged into the sea. This dramatic splash elicited loud cheers from spectators, marking a memorable and spirited conclusion to the festival.
https://newsonjapan.com/article/146963.php

VIDEO: Villagers Perform Funeral Of Their Beloved Dog With All Rituals, Shave Their Heads In MP’s Chhatarpur

**Family Performs Last Rites for Beloved Dog ‘Tilakdhari’ in Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh**

In a heartwarming display of love and devotion, a family in Madhya Pradesh’s Chhatarpur district performed the last rites for their pet dog, ‘Tilakdhari,’ following all the traditional rituals typically reserved for human cremations.

The touching incident took place in Pipat village of the Rajnagar area. Ram Sanjeevan Pateria, also known as Saddu Maharaj, along with his family, organized the funeral after Tilakdhari passed away on Friday. The family observed all customary rituals—they shaved their heads, carried a pot of fire, and walked to the cremation ground chanting the sacred phrase “Ram Naam Satya Hai.” Villagers who attended the ceremony also participated in traditional practices, including taking a ritual bath.

### An Emotional Bond

Pateria shared the poignant story behind their special bond with Tilakdhari. Years ago, a stray dog started following him home. He took her in and named her Ramkali. Ramkali quickly became well-known and beloved in the village, affectionately called “Masi” by the children.

Ramkali later gave birth to several puppies, but only one survived—a puppy who had a distinctive natural mark resembling a tilak on his forehead. The family named him ‘Tilakdhari.’

“I raised him like my own child. When he was born, I even organized a grand celebration in the village,” Pateria recalled.

After many years spent with the family, Tilakdhari grew old and passed away peacefully.

### Plans for Final Rituals and Feast

The family plans to carry Tilakdhari’s ashes to the Ganga River in Prayagraj (Allahabad) to perform the Terahvi, a 13th-day Hindu ritual honoring the deceased.

On this occasion, they intend to host a special feast that will include not only people but also all animals in the village—dogs, cats, cows, and birds alike—sharing their love and respect for all species.

This remarkable story stands as a beautiful testament to the deep affection and respect that can exist between humans and their animal companions.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/video-villagers-perform-funeral-of-their-beloved-dog-with-all-rituals-shave-their-heads-in-mps-chhatarpur

VIDEO: Villagers Perform Funeral Of Their Beloved Dog With All Rituals, Shave Their Heads In MP’s Chhatarpur

**Chhatarpur Family Performs Last Rites for Beloved Dog ‘Tilakdhari’ Following Human Cremation Rituals**

In a heartfelt expression of love and affection, a family in Madhya Pradesh’s Chhatarpur district performed the last rites of their pet dog, Tilakdhari, adhering to all the traditional rituals usually reserved for human cremations. This touching incident took place in Pipat village of the Rajnagar area.

The dog’s owner, Ram Sanjeevan Pateria, also known as Saddu Maharaj, along with his family, organized the funeral after Tilakdhari passed away on Friday. The family observed various customs: they shaved their heads, carried a pot of fire, and walked to the cremation ground chanting “Ram Naam Satya Hai.” The dog was cremated with full traditional rites, and villagers who attended also followed customs, including taking a ritual bath.

### A Deep Emotional Bond

Pateria shared the emotional story behind this unique ceremony. Years ago, a stray dog began following him home. He took her in and named her Ramkali. Over time, Ramkali became a beloved figure in the village, affectionately called “Masi” by the local children.

Ramkali gave birth to several puppies, but only one survived — a pup with a natural mark resembling a tilak on his forehead. This puppy was named ‘Tilakdhari.’ “I raised him like my own child. When he was born, I even organized a grand celebration in the village,” Pateria recalled.

Tilakdhari lived many years with the family and passed away peacefully, leaving behind cherished memories.

### Plans for a Special Ceremonial Feast

The family plans to take Tilakdhari’s ashes to the Ganga River in Prayagraj (Allahabad) to perform the Terahvi, a traditional 13th-day Hindu ritual. On that day, they will also host a special feast—not only for people but for all animals in the village, including dogs, cats, cows, and birds.

This touching gesture highlights the profound bond between humans and their animal companions and reflects deep cultural respect and love for all living beings.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/video-villagers-perform-funeral-of-their-beloved-dog-with-all-rituals-shave-their-heads-in-mps-chhatarpur

Swedish weddings: 5 traditions to know

By Anujj Trehaan | Sep 19, 2025, 02:22 PM

**What’s the Story?**

Swedish weddings are a beautiful blend of tradition and modernity, making them unique and memorable. From centuries-old customs to contemporary touches, these ceremonies reflect Sweden’s rich cultural heritage. If you’re planning a wedding or simply curious about Swedish traditions, here’s a look at five fascinating practices that make Swedish weddings special. Each tradition offers insight into the values and beliefs cherished in Swedish culture.

### 1. The Bridal Crown Tradition

The bridal crown is a significant part of Swedish wedding traditions. Traditionally, brides wore crowns made of gold or silver, symbolizing purity and commitment. Today, many brides still incorporate this tradition by wearing floral crowns or tiaras during their ceremonies.

The crown represents the bride’s transition into marriage and is often passed down through generations as a cherished family heirloom.

### 2. The Wedding Dance

A lively wedding dance is an integral part of Swedish nuptials, where guests join in traditional folk dances. These dances are not just a source of entertainment but also a way to bring everyone together, irrespective of age or background.

The couple often leads the dance, symbolizing their unity and inviting everyone to celebrate their love with joy and enthusiasm.

### 3. The Cake Pull Tradition

The cake pull is a fun tradition where guests pull ribbons attached to small charms hidden inside the wedding cake. Each charm carries a different meaning, such as love or luck, and the guest who pulls it gets to keep it as a token of good fortune for the future.

This playful activity adds an element of excitement to the celebration while engaging attendees in an interactive way.

### 4. The Flower Girl Tradition

Having a flower girl is a common practice in Swedish weddings. Young girls walk down the aisle before the bride, scattering petals. This sweet custom symbolizes innocence and purity, adding to the ceremony’s beauty.

The flower girl often wears a white dress similar to the bride’s, making it a charming and heartwarming part of the wedding.

### 5. The Toast Tradition

Toasting is an important part of Swedish wedding receptions, where guests raise glasses filled with sparkling cider or non-alcoholic beverages in honor of the couple’s future happiness.

Toasts are usually given by family members first before inviting friends to share their well-wishes as well. This tradition encourages heartfelt expressions of love and support from everyone present at this joyous occasion.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/swedish-weddings-5-traditions-to-know/story