Lanterns, Legends, and Laughter: China's Mid-Autumn Fest Lights up the world

Lanterns, Legends, and Laughter: China's Mid-Autumn Fest Lights up the world

By Author

Published on October 4, 2023

The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, is a mesmerizing celebration that sweeps across China, painting the skies with lanterns and filling hearts with joy. In this article, we'll take you on a journey through the enchanting traditions and festivities that make this festival so special.

Gazing at the Radiant Moon

At the heart of the Mid-Autumn Festival is the moon itself. Families gather under the starry night to admire the full moon, believing it symbolizes unity and togetherness. The moon's radiant glow casts a spell of enchantment, creating a perfect backdrop for heartfelt reunions.

Mooncakes: Delicious Delights of Unity

No Mid-Autumn Festival is complete without mooncakes, delectable pastries that come in various flavors and fillings. From classic lotus seed paste to innovative creations, these treats are shared among loved ones as a symbol of unity and good fortune.

Lanterns Aglow in the Night

One of the most captivating sights during the festival is the sea of lanterns that light up the streets. Children carry colorful lanterns, each with its own unique design, turning the night into a whimsical wonderland.

Family Reunions and Festive Feasts

Similar to Thanksgiving in the West, the Mid-Autumn Festival is a time for family gatherings. Generations come together to share stories, indulge in mooncakes, and enjoy a sumptuous feast that includes traditional dishes like duck and taro.

Folklore and Legends: The Tale of Chang'e

Every culture has its legends, and the Mid-Autumn Festival is no exception. The story of Chang'e, the Moon Goddess, is a beloved tale that adds a touch of magic to the celebration. Discover the legend and its significance in the festival's traditions.

The Cultural Tapestry of China's Regions

While the Mid-Autumn Festival is celebrated throughout China, each region adds its unique flavor to the festivities. From vibrant lantern carnivals in Hong Kong to solemn incense-burning ceremonies in Beijing, explore the diverse cultural expressions of this beloved festival.

Moonlit Activities: Dragon Dances and Riddles

Beyond mooncakes and lanterns, the festival features lively dragon and lion dances, showcasing the vibrant spirit of China. Additionally, riddle contests entertain and challenge the mind, adding an extra layer of fun to the celebrations.

Modern Twists: Technology Meets Tradition

In today's digital age, even ancient traditions get a modern twist. Discover how technology has influenced the way people celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival, from sending digital greetings to enjoying augmented reality moon-gazing experiences.

Beyond China: The Global Reach of the Moon Festival

While the festival is deeply rooted in China, its popularity has spread globally. Chinese and Vietnamese communities around the world host vibrant celebrations, making it a multicultural event that bridges continents.


Stefano Tardito Wins Rēgula 2025 Award for Borgo Monchiero Heritage Restoration

Stefano Tardito Wins Rēgula 2025 Award for Borgo Monchiero Heritage Restoration

By Hariharan U

Published on February 6, 2026

Renowned Italian architect Stefano Tardito has received the Rēgula 2025 Award in the Hospitality category for his masterful restoration of the historic Borgo di Monchiero complex, now reimagined as Borgo Monchiero Heritage by Atmosphere, marking Atmosphere Core’s debut property in Italy.

 Presented at the 8th edition of the Rēgula | 100 Italian Projects Award in Milan, the honour recognises Tardito’s nuanced transformation of the 18th-century monastic and religious complex in Piedmont’s Langhe region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, into a refined luxury hospitality destination.

 The jury cited the project as an exemplary balance of conservation and innovation, applauding its seamless integration of aesthetics, technology and historical authenticity while showcasing the depth of Italian architectural and cultural heritage. Reflecting on the recognition, Stefano Tardito said, "This is a truly ambitious project based on a delicate balance between conservation and enhancement, guided by authentic historical research and technological innovation. The result is a harmonious encounter between past and present that allows the monastery to preserve its historical authenticity while evolving into immersive and seductive spaces where guests can enjoy unique experiences. The Borgo will thus be reborn and become an exceptional narrator of its past".

The award has further heightened anticipation for the official opening of Borgo Monchiero Heritage by Atmosphere, which represents the first step in Atmosphere Core’s European expansion. Set on a hill overlooking vineyards and rolling landscapes, the property features 19 rooms converted from former monastic cells, an ancient private chapel repurposed for intimate ceremonies, a restaurant with a wine room dedicated to local cuisine, an elegant lounge bar in frescoed halls overlooking a panoramic swimming pool, and a distinctive wellness area housed within vaulted brick spaces and an old terracotta cistern. Owners Franco Giampetruzzi and Gian Maria Debenedetti welcomed the recognition, stating, “This recognition celebrates skilful restoration and conversion by architect Stefano Tardito and enduring spirit of the property, and we are proud of his achievements. It reinforces our commitment to preserving its heritage while welcoming a new chapter”. With its tranquil cloisters, preserved architectural details and contemporary comforts, Borgo Monchiero Heritage by Atmosphere is poised to offer global travellers, wine enthusiasts and lovers of Piedmontese cuisine a deeply immersive and rejuvenating stay in one of northern Italy’s most evocative destinations.


The Park Navi Mumbai Receives IGBC Certification for Sustainable Hospitality Practices

The Park Navi Mumbai Receives IGBC Certification for Sustainable Hospitality Practices

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 6, 2026

The Park Navi Mumbai has been awarded the prestigious Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) Certification, reaffirming the hotel’s strong commitment to sustainable hospitality practices. The recognition highlights the property’s consistent efforts towards responsible design, efficient operations, and environmentally conscious initiatives.

Strategically located near the operational Navi Mumbai International Airport (T1), The Park Navi Mumbai has seamlessly integrated sustainability into its core functioning. The hotel offers guests a refined luxury experience while aligning its operations with global environmental standards. The IGBC certification acknowledges the property’s focused approach to reducing its environmental footprint without compromising on comfort or service quality.

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Among the key initiatives recognised by IGBC is the hotel’s use of solar energy, which has significantly reduced its reliance on conventional power sources. In addition, the property has implemented advanced water-conservation systems, energy-efficient operational practices, and structured waste-management processes. These include effective waste segregation and responsible disposal methods that ensure optimal use of resources across the hotel.

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Sharing his thoughts on the achievement, Rahul Makhija, General Manager, The Park Navi Mumbai, said, “Achieving IGBC certification is a proud moment for our entire team and reinforces our long-standing commitment to sustainable hospitality. From water-saving innovations to robust waste-management systems, environmental responsibility is deeply embedded in our operations. Our approach to sustainability goes beyond compliance, it enhances the guest experience while contributing positively to the community and the environment. We remain focused on protecting the planet and setting higher benchmarks for responsible luxury.”

With this milestone, The Park Navi Mumbai joins a select group of hospitality leaders embracing environmentally responsible practices. The recognition further demonstrates that luxury and sustainability can work hand in hand in shaping the future of modern hospitality.


Athulya Senior Care Founder Welcomes Budget 2026 Healthcare Vision

Athulya Senior Care Founder Welcomes Budget 2026 Healthcare Vision

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 5, 2026

As Budget 2026 introduces several progressive measures under its strategy for healthcare advancement through knowledge, technology, and innovation, the focus on strengthening geriatric care and allied health services has emerged as a key highlight for India’s evolving healthcare ecosystem.

Dr. Karthik Narayan R, Founder and Managing Director of Athulya Senior Care, emphasised that the future of healthcare in India extends far beyond hospitals and infrastructure. He pointed out that caregivers, allied health professionals, and geriatric specialists form the backbone of a system that ensures continuity, dignity, and quality of care, particularly for the country’s rapidly growing ageing population.

Commenting on the budget’s direction, Dr. Karthik Narayan R said, “India's healthcare future will be shaped not just by hospitals, but by the people who deliver care every day. The budget's emphasis on geriatric care, allied health professionals and caregivers, is a timely step towards ensuring a dignified, continuum of care focusing on quality of life for the aging population.”

With increasing life expectancy and a rising senior demographic, the demand for long-term care, rehabilitation services, and skilled caregivers is growing steadily across India. The budget’s recognition of geriatric care and allied health professionals signals a shift towards a more inclusive healthcare model that values preventive care, rehabilitation, and daily support alongside acute medical treatment.

Dr. Karthik Narayan R further highlighted that empowering caregivers and allied professionals through structured training, technology integration, and policy support will play a crucial role in building a self-reliant healthcare ecosystem. Such an approach not only improves patient outcomes but also ensures that seniors receive compassionate, personalised care that enhances their overall quality of life.

The emphasis laid out in Budget 2026 reflects a broader vision of healthcare that balances innovation with human-centric care delivery. By strengthening the geriatric care framework and supporting the workforce behind it, India moves closer to a resilient healthcare system that prioritises dignity, continuity, and long-term well-being for its ageing population.

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