Author

Ananya Sharma

Culture & Heritage Writer

Ananya writes about Indian festivals, temple traditions and the stories behind them. She grew up between Lucknow and Chennai, which is why she is endlessly curious about how one festival changes from region to region.

Articles by Ananya Sharma (20)

Abstract indigo-toned artwork with glowing concentric circles, illustrating the article “Lakshmi Puja at Home: Meaning, Setup and Step-by-Step Guide”

Festivals

Lakshmi Puja at Home: Meaning, Setup and Step-by-Step Guide

Learn how Lakshmi Puja is performed at home on Diwali: preparation, items needed, the steps of worship, and regional customs.

Ananya SharmaSep 22, 20262 min read

Abstract marigold-toned artwork with glowing concentric circles, illustrating the article “Goddess Lakshmi: Stories, Symbols and Why She Is Worshipped on Diwali”

Hindu Gods & Goddesses

Goddess Lakshmi: Stories, Symbols and Why She Is Worshipped on Diwali

Learn who Goddess Lakshmi is, her origin stories, the meaning of her lotus, elephants and gold coins, and her role in Diwali.

Ananya SharmaSep 21, 20262 min read

Abstract saffron-toned artwork with glowing concentric circles, illustrating the article “Govardhan Puja and Annakut: Krishna, the Hill and the Mountain of Food”

Festivals

Govardhan Puja and Annakut: Krishna, the Hill and the Mountain of Food

Learn the story of Govardhan Puja, how Annakut is celebrated with mountains of food, and what the festival means in different regions.

Ananya SharmaSep 20, 20262 min read

Abstract vermilion-toned artwork with glowing concentric circles, illustrating the article “Bhai Dooj: The Yama and Yamuna Story and How Siblings Celebrate”

Festivals

Bhai Dooj: The Yama and Yamuna Story and How Siblings Celebrate

Discover the meaning and legend of Bhai Dooj, how the tilak ceremony is performed, and its regional names like Bhai Phota and Bhau Beej.

Ananya SharmaSep 19, 20262 min read

Abstract marigold-toned artwork with glowing concentric circles, illustrating the article “Rangoli, Diyas and Torans: Diwali Decoration Traditions Explained”

Traditions & Customs

Rangoli, Diyas and Torans: Diwali Decoration Traditions Explained

Learn the meaning behind rangoli, kolam, diyas and torans used at Diwali and Navratri, with ideas for eco-friendly decoration.

Ananya SharmaSep 18, 20262 min read

Abstract emerald-toned artwork with glowing concentric circles, illustrating the article “Diwali in Different Regions: Kali Puja, Bandi Chhor Divas, Jain Diwali and More”

Traditions & Customs

Diwali in Different Regions: Kali Puja, Bandi Chhor Divas, Jain Diwali and More

See how Diwali is celebrated across India: Kali Puja in Bengal, Bandi Chhor Divas for Sikhs, Jain Diwali, Naraka Chaturdashi in the south, and Chhath.

Ananya SharmaSep 17, 20262 min read