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.


Nagore Gears Up for the 469th Grand Kandhuri Celebrations

Nagore Gears Up for the 469th Grand Kandhuri Celebrations

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 28, 2025

Nagore is all set for the 469th annual Kandhuri festival honouring Nagore Andavar Syed Shahul Hameed. The celebrations began with the flag hoisting event on 21st November, marking the start of the festivities. The main event, Periya Kandhuri, will be held on 1st December. One of the highlights, the santhanakoodu procession, will take place on the evening of 30th November and will begin from Nagapattinam. The Anointment of Sandal Paste (Chandanam) on the Sacred Tomb will be held in the early morning of 1st December.

To support the festival, the Tamil Nadu state government has taken efficient steps to ensure smooth travel for devotees. Tamilnadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) is operating 100 buses from various parts of Tamil Nadu to Nagore. Southern Railway has also announced special trains from Chennai, and an unreserved MEMU train will operate from Villupuram. Reservations for these trains are currently underway.

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The managing trustee of the Nagore Dargah Shariff attended the flag hoisting event, where flags were raised on all five minars. The sight of the fluttering flags has added more colour to the festive atmosphere across the town.

The state government is expecting around 15 Lakh people to gather for this harmonious festival, which brings together people from all religions. Devotees from Tamil Nadu and from states including Kerala, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh are expected to visit Nagore for the celebrations. The festive spirit is already visible across the town as the Dargah and its minars shine with decorative lights.

To elevate the celebrations, the Nagapattinam District Administration has declared a local holiday on December 1. The festival will conclude with the flag-lowering ceremony on 4th December 2025.  

Image Credits: Image credits belong to the original owner.


IHCL Expands Presence in Jammu & Kashmir with a New Gateway Resort in Patnitop

IHCL Expands Presence in Jammu & Kashmir with a New Gateway Resort in Patnitop

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 27, 2025

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, has announced the signing of a new hotel under its Gateway brand in Patnitop, Jammu & Kashmir. This is a conversion project with future plans for expansion.

Ms. Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President – Real Estate & Development, IHCL, said, “Patnitop is a hidden gem in Jammu & Kashmir, offering travellers a quick winter escape. With the largest room inventory in the destination, this Gateway resort will cater to the growing demand from Punjab, Delhi NCR and Jammu. Serving as a gateway to the Himalayas, this signing aligns with our strategy to expand the brand in such leisure markets. We are delighted to partner with FIL Industries Private Limited for this project.”

Located amidst serene natural landscapes, the 78-key Gateway Patnitop, Jammu & Kashmir will offer guests an immersive experience of the region’s beauty. The resort will include an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty restaurant and a bar. Guests can enjoy two swimming pools, including a heated pool, along with a modern fitness centre and treatment rooms. For social and corporate events, the resort also provides a spacious banquet hall covering over 4,000 sq. ft.

Mr. Owais Altaf Syed, Director, FIL Industries Private Limited, added, “We are happy to collaborate with IHCL to bring the Gateway brand to Patnitop. This partnership with IHCL marks a significant milestone in enhancing the region’s hospitality landscape.”

Patnitop is a peaceful hill station surrounded by lush forests and snow-capped peaks. Travellers can enjoy adventure activities such as paragliding, trekking and skiing or explore attractions like Natha Top and Billo Ki Powri. With this signing, IHCL now has 12 hotels in Jammu & Kashmir, including 6 under development.

About the Owning Company

FIL Industries Private Limited is a diversified enterprise operating across agriculture, food and beverage, travel, hospitality and health sectors. Its portfolio includes agri-input solutions, natural fruit concentrates, functional drinks, beverages, packaged drinking water, post-harvest advisory services, storage solutions and sustainable mobility through aerial ropeways and tourism infrastructure.
In his role as Director, Mr. Owais Altaf Syed oversees ropeway management and hospitality. The company has been awarded major ropeway projects including the Dehradun–Mussoorie Ropeway and the Yamunotri Ropeway Project.


Frill Hospitality: A Renowned Name in Premium Hotel Toiletries and Amenities

Frill Hospitality: A Renowned Name in Premium Hotel Toiletries and Amenities

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 26, 2025

In the world of luxury hospitality, it's often the finest details that create unforgettable guest experiences. Frill Hospitality has firmly established itself as a trusted leader in the industry, delivering premium hotel toiletries and amenities that blend exquisite fragrances, thoughtful designs, and superior quality. With a state-of-the-art manufacturing unit in Gurugram, India, Frill produces everything under strict GMP standards, ensuring paraben-free, 100% vegan, and phthalate-free formulations crafted with the finest ingredients.

Recently honored as the Most Trusted Brand in Hotel Toiletries at the India Hotel & Homestay Summit & Awards 2025, Frill continues to set the benchmark for excellence in guest-centric innovation.

Signature Collections: Where IFRA-certified Fragrance Meets Luxury

Frill Hospitality offers a stunning range of premium toiletries across three captivating brand lines, each designed to transform ordinary bathroom routines into spa-like rituals:

  • Forestra – We built it for hotels that want to deliver a truly premium, nature-inspired experience. With its elegant fragrance blend of, Bergamot, Geranium & Blond Woods, Forestra brings a boutique luxury feel to every room. The texture is rich, the packaging is sophisticated, and the performance is exceptional, making it the preferred choice for upscale resorts and modern boutique properties. 

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  • Sea BreezeSea Breeze is designed for hotels that want premium quality at smart pricing. With its clean, refreshing fragrance of Sea Salt & Lavender and high-performance formulation, Sea Breeze delivers a consistent guest experience every time. The packaging is modern, the texture feels luxurious, and the cost makes it a clear winner for high-rotation rooms. Perfect for 3- to 5-star properties looking for reliability without compromising quality. 

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  • Isvara Naturals – Our modern Ayurvedic formulations, premium textures, and the signature Soul & Vanilla fragrance create an unforgettable guest experience. Designed for luxury and boutique properties, Isvara offers high-quality, conscious amenities that elevate your brand image instantly.Every product boasts amazing, long-lasting fragrances and sophisticated packaging that seamlessly complements upscale hotel branding.

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Innovative & Sustainable Packaging for Dry Amenities

Frill offers exceptional versatility in presentation, especially for dry amenities. Options include eco-friendly kraft boxes and pouches, butter paper pouches, laminated boxes, flow-wrap sachets, and more. These sustainable choices not only reduce environmental impact but also allow hotels to customize packaging that reflects their unique identity while maintaining premium aesthetics.

The White Thread - Premium Hotel Slippers: Comfort Meets Style

Beyond toiletries, Frill manufactures high-quality hotel slippers with Frill detailing in a variety of premium materials:

  • Soft fleece for cozy warmth
  • Plush fur for indulgent comfort
  • Natural jute for an eco-friendly, textured option

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These slippers provide the perfect finishing touch to any in-room experience.

Elevate Your Guest Experience with Frill

Whether you're a boutique hotel, luxury resort, or chain property, Frill Hospitality delivers complete in-room solutions that impress guests and strengthen brand loyalty. Their commitment to quality, sustainability, and customization has made them a preferred partner for hospitality businesses across India and beyond.

Ready to experience the difference?

Please visit the official website: www.frillhospitality.com.  For more information, samples, or to place orders, write to info@frillhospitality.com

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