To say that gin and peppermint are a match made in heaven wouldn’t be wrong. What they both have in common is that herbaceous complexity that can refresh your soul this Christmas. Meanwhile, the heat of the gin complements the invigorating coolness of peppermint to perfection. Yes, gin-peppermint cocktails are simply perfect for any gathering, and especially so during Christmas when both these ingredients evoke traditional festive spirit so well.  

Ready to explore the world of gin-peppermint cocktails for your Christmas party? Here are some that you should absolutely try.

1. Minty Gin Fizz 

Sparkling, pretty and so delicious, this gin-peppermint cocktail can spark utter joy and festive spirit for your Christmas gatherings. Try it out and you simply won’t regret it.  

Ingredients: 

• 50ml Tanqueray gin 
• 25ml peppermint syrup 
• 25ml fresh lemon juice 
• Soda water 
• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish 

Method: 

• Fill a glass with ice cubes and pour in Tanqueray gin, peppermint syrup, and fresh lemon juice. 
• Top up with soda water and stir gently. 
• Garnish with fresh mint leaves to add to the pepperiness of the drink. 

2. Christmas Peppermint Gimlet 

A twist on the classic gin-based cocktail, this one infuses the pepperiness and refreshing notes of peppermint with the gin to perfection. This Gimlet is an herbaceous, delicious cocktail to savour all through the holiday season. 

Ingredients: 

• 50ml Gordon’s gin 
• 15ml peppermint liqueur 
• 10ml fresh lime juice 
• Crushed ice 
• Lime wedge, for garnish 

Method:   

• Fill a shaker with crushed ice and add Gordon’s gin, peppermint liqueur, and fresh lime juice. 
• Shake well and strain into a chilled glass then serve it up with a garnish of lime wedges. 

3. Peppermint Martini Royale 

Tweaked just the right amount for the holiday season, this gin-peppermint cocktail is simply perfect for your Christmas gatherings with its deliciousness. In fact, it is one of the most lavish cocktails you can whip up with any spirit this Christmas. 

Ingredients: 

• 50ml Tanqueray gin 
• 15ml dry vermouth 
• 10ml peppermint syrup 
• Champagne 
• Peppermint candy, for garnish 

Method: 

• Place the Tanqueray gin, dry vermouth, and peppermint syrup in a mixing glass with ice and stir gently. 
• Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass and top it up with the champagne. 
• Garnish with peppermint candy for an elegant touch and bolstered herby flavors. 

4. Peppermint Julep Sparkler 

Love a traditional Mint Julep? Well, you will also enjoy this one with a peppermint twist. Loaded with minty flavours and more herbaceous that other cocktails, this one is perfect for daytime Christmas gatherings and lunches. 

Ingredients: 

• 50ml Gordon’s gin 
• 15ml peppermint syrup 
• 4-6 fresh peppermint leaves 
• Crushed ice 
• Soda water 
• Fresh peppermint sprig, for garnish 

Method: 

• Muddle fresh peppermint leaves and peppermint syrup in a glass, then add Gordon’s gin. 
• Fill the glass with crushed ice and top it up with soda water. 
• Stir gently and garnish with a fresh peppermint sprig. 

5. Peppermint Sparkler Mocktail 

If you’re the designated driver at your Christmas party and unable to indulge in the flavors of gin-peppermint cocktails, then this one is for you. Try out this festive mocktail and fill yourself up with some holiday cheer! 

Ingredients: 

• 100ml sparkling water 
• 50ml apple juice 
• 15ml peppermint syrup 
• Squeeze of fresh lime juice 
• Ice cubes 
• Fresh cranberries for garnish 
• Sprig of rosemary for garnish 

Method: 

• Fill a glass with ice cubes then pour in the sparkling water and apple juice. 
• Add the peppermint syrup and squeeze in some fresh lime juice. Stir gently. 
• Garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary for a festive touch. Serve chilled. 

The post Festive Gin-Peppermint Cocktails for Your Christmas Gatherings appeared first on Gharsaa.

Top 6 Festive Rum Cocktails to Elevate Your Christmas Celebrations:

1. SPICED RUM PUNCH

What better way to kickstart the Christmas festivities than with a comforting glass of Spiced Rum Punch, a wonderful embodiment of the essence of the season. In a large glass mix together 240 ml dark spiced rum with 480 ml apple cider and 2 cinnamon sticks. Add a few cloves to add warmth to the drink. Serve the punch warm. This serving is ideal for five to six people.

Also Read: 5 Refreshing Peppermint Christmas Mocktails – Non-Alcoholic Holiday Drinks

2. RUM-INFUSED HOT CHOCOLATE

Tired of regular hot chocolate? Infuse it with rum to bring forward a richness that enhances the traditional taste of the beloved drink. Add 30 ml spiced rum or dark rum to your favorite hot chocolate recipe. Top it off with marshmallows or whipped cream. Nothing can be better than enjoying a warm and cozy evening by the fire with this drink in hand.

3. EGGNOG RUM FLIP

When the classic taste of eggnog is blended with rum, the result is a timeless indulgence. To make the Eggnog Rum Flip, combine 90 ml dark rum together with 120 ml homemade eggnog, a sprinkle of nutmeg, and finally a dollop of whipped cream. The result is a concoction that is creamy and flavourful, capturing the essence of Christmas in a glass. This serving is ideal for 2-3 people.

4. MAI TAI UNDER THE MISTLETOE

Transform the tropical essence of Mai Tai by giving it a holiday makeover. Combine 60 ml light rum, 30 ml dark rum, and 15 ml orange liqueur with 30 ml lime juice and a dash of grenadine. Garnish it with a mint sprig and fresh cranberry. This visually vibrant cocktail combines the best of summer and the coolness of winter. 

Also Read: 5 Vanilla Cocktails That Prove It’s the Ultimate Christmas Classic

5. CRANBERRY MOJITO

Give this classic drink a festive makeover with the addition of the wintry goodness of cranberry. Muddle fresh cranberries and mint in a glass and add 2 teaspoons lime juice and 1 tablespoon simple syrup to it. Stir the mixture well and top it off with 60 ml white rum and club soda. Serve it with fresh cranberries and a mint sprig, along with a lime wedge. The result is a refreshing and vibrant cocktail that will surely add a sparkle to your Christmas festivities.

6. NAUGHTY ELF COCKTAIL

Elves and Christmas are synonymous with one another. If you have grown up playing the classic Elf on the Shelf game, what is stopping you from creating an intoxicating rum infused drink by the same name? Mix 30 ml each of spiced rum, lime soda, orange liqueur, pomegranate liqeuer, and 60 ml cranberry juice in a glass filled with ice cubes. Stir well and top off the drink with club soda. Serve it with a candy cane in celebration of Christmas. 

As you set out to elevate your Christmas drinks with festive rums, remember that the key is to explore and experiment. Each rum brings its own unique character to the table, offering a spectrum of flavors that can be expertly crafted into delightful cocktails. So, gather your ingredients, raise your glasses, and toast to the spirit of the season with these exceptional rum-based Christmas drinks. 

The post Top Festive Rum Cocktails to Elevate Your Christmas Celebrations appeared first on Gharsaa.

Luckily, in recent years there has been a shift in perspectives for people who are avoiding alcohol or simply sober curious, and it’s led to massive innovations in the space of non-alcoholic spirits which offer the cocktail drinking experience without any of the hangover. For example, Seedlip with its three distinct non-alcoholic spirits have made it possible to craft sophisticated mocktails that are imbued with goodness. Made from pure botanical extracts, they all people to avoid cocktails at Christmas without feeling like they’re missing out.

Naturally, when it comes to holiday drinks, you have to take cues from the flavours of the season. Warm spices, floral notes and of course, the ever-popular peppermint. Peppermint mocktails are a great way to indulge in a drink that’s refreshing and vibrant, which will inspire you to feel the spirit of the season.

For a truly spectacular Christmas tipple, try these 5 mocktails imbued with the power of peppermint.

1. Peppermint Sparkler

Ingredients

• 150ml Peppermint Infused Sparkling Water
• 60 ml Seedlip Grove 42
• 30ml Cranberry Juice
• 10ml Fresh Lime Juice
• Ice Cubes

Method

Combine peppermint-infused sparkling water, Seedlip, cranberry juice, and fresh lime juice in a glass over ice. Stir gently and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.

Also Read: 5 Vanilla Cocktails That Prove It’s the Ultimate Christmas Classic

2. Berry Peppermint Fizz

Ingredients

• 250 ml mixed berry juice (blueberry, raspberry, strawberry)
• 150 ml tonic water
• ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
• Ice cubes
• Fresh berries for garnish

Instructions:

Mix mixed berry juice and tonic water in a glass. Add peppermint extract and stir well. Drop in ice cubes and garnish with fresh berries.

3. Frosty Peppermint Delight

Ingredients:

• 250 ml coconut water
• 150 ml pineapple juice
• ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
• Chilled coconut milk
• Crushed ice
• Pineapple wedges for garnish

Instructions

Combine coconut water and pineapple juice in a glass. Add peppermint extract and stir gently. Top with chilled coconut milk and add crushed ice. Garnish with pineapple wedges for a tropical twist to your holiday mocktail.

4. Peppermint White Russain Mocktail
Ingredients

• 60 ml of strong coffee
• 30 ml Seedlip Spice 94
• 1-2 drops of of vanilla extract
• 1-2 drops of millilitres of peppermint extract
• Approximately 60 ml of heavy cream (or a bit more to top up the glass)

Instructions

Fill a glass with ice. Pour the chilled brewed coffee over the ice. Add the vanilla and peppermint extracts. “Float” the cream over the coffee. Stir delicately. Optionally, garnish with a peppermint stick.

5. Ginger Mint Fizz
Ingredients

• 160ml Ginger Beer
• 30ml Peppermint Syrup
• 10ml Fresh Lemon Juice
• Ice Cubes

Method

Pour ginger beer, peppermint syrup, and fresh lemon juice into a glass over ice. Stir gently and garnish with a twist of lemon peel.

The post 5 Refreshing Peppermint Christmas Mocktails – Non-Alcoholic Holiday Drinks appeared first on Gharsaa.

Vanilla cocktails during Christmas evoke a sense of comfort and tradition, mirroring the season’s warmth and festivity—so they simply shouldn’t be missed. Vanilla has a subtle sweetness that intertwines with the festive spirit perfectly and infusing them into spirits of all sorts creates an indulgent set of elixirs that can really elevate your holiday experience. Vanilla-infused cocktails therefore symbolise more than just impeccable flavours in a glass. They represent luxury, nostalgia and the spirit of Christmas to perfection.

So, this Christmas, indulge in the classic and delicious flavours of vanilla cocktails with the following.

1. Vanilla White Russian

Creamy, smooth and utterly delicious, Vanilla White Russian is a cocktail that grasps the fun yet luxurious side of Christmas celebrations. Choose a good quality vodka, like Ciroc, Ketel One or Smirnoff for the best experience. All you need to do to make this twist on the classic cocktail is 50ml vodka blended with 25ml coffee liqueur, 25ml vanilla syrup, 50ml single cream and shake them well with ice until chilled. Serve up the drink with a vanilla pod as a garnish.

2. Vanilla Eggnog Martini

Who doesn’t love a good eggnog on Christmas eve? If you do and want to give it a vanilla-flavoured boozy twist, then here’s what you need to do. First, rim a chilled martini glass with ground nutmeg for that oomphy Christmas feel. Then fill a shaker with ice, 50ml vodka, 25ml amaretto liqueur, 50ml eggnog, 2ml vanilla essence and shake it vigorously until well mixed. Pour into the martini glass and garnish with a cinnamon stick before serving up.

3. Vanilla Cranberry Cooler

To say that cranberry and vanilla together capture the essence of a fruit-packed Christmas wouldn’t be wrong, and this cocktail allows you to enjoy both flavours along with your favourite Captain Morgan rum like no other drink can. To make this Vanilla Cranberry Cooler, just fill up a highball glass with ice cubes then pour in vanilla essence, 50ml rum, 100ml cranberry juice, 25ml lime juice and soda water. Stir the cocktail gently, add some cranberries and a lime wedge for garnish, then sip into the fruity goodness of this cooler.

4. Vanilla Bean Hot Chocolate

A great hot chocolate is always in demand during Christmas, but what if you could make yours even more special with a little vanilla infusion? Just place 200ml milk, 50g dark chocolate, one vanilla pod and 25ml vanilla syrup in a saucepan. Whisk it continuously on a low heat until everything combines and turns hot (but not boiling). Now add in 10ml of your favourite single malt whisky, like Talisker or The Singleton, stir it in and pour into a heatproof mug. Garnish with whipped cream and grated chocolate before serving this one up.

5. Vanilla Tequila Sunrise

If you love the stunning colours of a classic Tequila Sunrise, then this one will make you fall in love all over again. All you need to do is fill up a highball glass with ice cubes and pour in 50ml Don Julio tequila, 100ml orange juice and 15ml vanilla syrup. Stir these gently to combine, then add in the grenadine slowly to get that sunrise effect. Garnish this Vanilla Tequila Sunrise with an orange slice and maraschino cherry for a festive finish.

The post 5 Vanilla Cocktails That Prove It’s the Ultimate Christmas Classic appeared first on Gharsaa.

Nahay Khay Date and Time for Chhath Puja 2024 USA

Nahay Khay in the year 2024 will fall on Wednesday, November 6. Here is a schedule that can be used to mark the day according to USA timing:

Nahay Khay Date: November 6, 2024
Sunrise Timing: Approximately 7:15 AM (PST) – 7:00 AM (EST), depending on the time zone
Sunset Timing: Approximately 5:10 PM (PST) – 4:50 PM (EST)

Also Read: Chhath Puja 2024 USA: Date, Time, and Significance for Indian Communities

What is Nahay Khay in Chhath Puja?

Meaning, “bath and eat.” It is the first of the four days of the Chhath Puja festival, which may be taken as a ritual bath to the worshippers. It is an initiation ritual for purification of body and soul to start more austere days of fasting and worship. On this day, devotees take a holy dip in rivers or other sacred bodies of water before sunrise. Then they cook simple pure food called Bhog which they offer to the Sun God.

Observing Nahay Khay in the USA

In the USA, generally, people cannot access traditional Indian rivers. One can still do Nahay Khay either by taking water from a nearby lake or utilizing home-based water. For observing the day, you may follow these steps:

Also Read: List of Fruits for Chhath Puja 2024 USA: Indian Devotees in the USA

Morning Bath: One gets a fresh bath before attaining his place at this altar, which he performs in the comforts of his home. Where possible, holy Ganges water, called Ganga Jal, is added in several drops, making the whole set pure.
Preparing Satvik Food: Satvik food after bathing involves a typical breakfast comprising of rice, a vegetable from pumpkin called kaddu bhaji, and chana dal that comprised of split chickpeas. Ingredients are made use of strictly vegetarian so the sanctity of the celebration may be given importance.

Offer Prayers: The first ritual is to offer prayers in front of the Sun God with the meal before one consumes it to seek divine blessings for good health and prosperity.

The meal, often shared among family members, becomes a time for family bonding and unity.

Meaning of Nahay Khay in Chhath Puja

Nahay Khay is spiritually very significant since it is the first step towards self-discipline and purity. It cleanses the devotees before getting into the fasting days and intense worship days. This is a way of devotion towards the Sun God, thanks for his continuous energy and blessings.

Food Intaken during Nahay Khay

Nahay Khay food is not that complex; it is simple, but the requirements are actually very pure. The main dishes offered on this day include the following:
Kaddu Bhaji: It is a pumpkin vegetable with garlic and onions being avoided in this recipe.
Rice: The staple food that needs to be offered in front of Sun God.
Chana Dal: Split chickpeas that are properly cooked, and offered with devotion.

Nahay Khay is a beautiful beginning of Chhath Puja. It connects Indian communities in the USA to their heritage and tradition. The practice encourages mindfulness, purity, and gratitude and honors the Sun God for his blessings, paving the way for the rest of the Chhath Puja rituals.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nahay Khay for US Indians

The post Nahay Khay Chhath Puja 2024 USA: Date, Time, and Tradition for Indians Celebrating in the USA appeared first on Gharsaa.

Here is the list of important fruits for preparation in Chhath Puja:

Importance of Fruits in Chhath Puja:

During Chhath Puja, devotees offer a variety of fresh fruits as a gesture of thanksgiving and seeking blessings from Surya and Chhathi Maiya. Fresh fruits are the embodiment of nature’s abundance, purity, and nourishment that the festival focuses on for health, wealth, and prosperity. The fruits are arranged in bamboo baskets representing a wholesome offering of earth’s bounty.

Also Read: Chhath Puja 2024 USA: Date, Time, and Significance for Indian Communities

Some necessary fruits for Chhath Puja

Banana

Bananas are considered auspicious and part of the Chhath Puja offering. Accessible and very symbolic in their representation, they convey prosperity and fertility. To get bananas in the USA, you can visit grocery stores and markets.

Coconuts

As part of Hindu rituals, coconuts are one of the most important fruits offered during Chhath Puja. Pure and with husk intact, it is fine to keep them with the husk on. Indian grocery stores in the USA have fresh coconuts in their inventory during festival seasons.

Sugarcane

Sugarcane is used in worship for Chhath Puja as an embodiment of sweetness and prosperity. As a rule, it can be offered only in a raw, unprocessed way. In the USA, sugarcane may at times be seen in certain specialty grocery stores, or at least stores with specialty Asian or Caribbean products sections.

Apple

Apples are widely available in America and are regularly added to the Chhath Puja basket. Apples, being of the vibrant red color, signify energizing and commitment to one’s deity; hence apples become a beautiful addition as well.

Pomegranate

This fruit is the symbol of abundance and fertility. So, these fruits are a must in any type of Chhath Puja offering. In the United States, these fruit easily available in stores; people can get them throughout the autumn season.

Orange

The orange fruit is symbolically related with good health; people include oranges in any type of Chhath Puja basket. With this fruit, oranges present the color and diversity on the offerings. It easily available in most of supermarkets in USA.

Mosambi or Sweet Lime

Mosambi or sweet lime is traditional for Chhath Puja, which represents optimism and sweetness in life. This fruit might not readily be found in most US supermarkets, but can probably be found in Indian or South Asian grocery stores.

Grapes

Gruits of joy and prosperity hence make them perfect as a donation towards the God in Chhath Puja. Tiny round-shaped fruits which may have their sweet variety both in terms of taste and texture with the fruit basket, widely available in U.S. Pineapple
The Tropical Fruit Pineapple is a representation of hospitality and prosperity. An added uniqueness to Chhath Puja through some flavor added to it has given texture it, which comes mostly from supermarkets available in the United States.

Papaya

Papaya, being a healthy fruit and also a symbol of prosperity and harmony, is found in Chhath Puja. Typically, you can get the fruit in larger supermarkets and specialty stores in most cities.

How to Prepare Your Fruit Basket for Chhath Puja in the USA

You will find it very difficult to get old bamboo baskets here in the USA, where you can carry any type of handmade natural fiber basket according to the ritual; 
Buying Fruits from Vegetables Store Fresh fruits always try to shop a couple of days ahead of Pooja date.
Substitutes at the Local Level: If you cannot find any specific fruit, then local fruit with similar texture and color can be used; however, remember the purpose.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chhath Puja Fruits

Chhath Puja in the USA can be a bit of a challenge, especially in getting some of the traditional items such as bamboo baskets and some fruits. The spirit of the festival can be well preserved by sourcing the required fruits and making an offering that reflects your love and respect for this precious tradition. You could continue to connect with your heritage while celebrating with your community in the USA by including bananas, coconuts, and sugarcane in your Chhath Puja.

The post List of Fruits for Chhath Puja 2024 USA: Indian Devotees in the USA appeared first on Gharsaa.

Chhath Puja 2024 USA: Date and Time

In USA, the Sun rising and setting time will be calculated to perform the rituals at those times. The list of dates and times is as follows

Day 1: Nahay Khay- November 5, 2024
Day 2: Lohanda and Kharna- November 6, 2024
Day 3: Sandhya Arghya- November 7, 2024
Sunset time for Sandhya Arghya: around 4:52 PM. The sunset time varies with the city.
Day 4: Usha Arghya- November 8, 2024
Sunrise Time for Usha Arghya: About 6:35 AM (according to the city)

Importance of Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja is special because it symbolizes purity and simplicity with respect to Mother Nature. During the celebration, one looks to thank the Sun God Surya for giving them life and wishes their family health, well-being, and prosperity. It is in the worship rituals of Chhath Puja that one looks for protection from and happiness through the goddess Chhathi Maiya whom people believe in, protects children, and brings happy families.

For most Indians, remembering the same in the United States makes Chhath Puja remember to enrich cultural heritage through the bond of memories with family and friends.

This tradition of being a human connection in regards to gratitude that involves nature and transcended boundaries can be said as under:

Some Major Traditions and Practices Followed During Chhath Puja

Day 1: Nahay Khay

It begins with Nahay Khay, where the devotees bathe and cook sattvic (pure) food. This marks the beginning of their fast. The simple food is mainly rice, pumpkin curry, and chana dal, which are pure.

Lohanda and Kharna (Day 2):

On the second day, devotees observe a day-long fast, breaking it only after sunset with “kharna prasad” (sattvic food). Traditional foods include rice pudding and roti made with jaggery, meaning devotion and patience.

Sandhya Arghya: Day 3

This is the main day of Chhath Puja, in which devotees gather by rivers or water bodies in the evening to offer prayers and “Arghya” to the setting sun. It is a beautiful ritual where devotees stand in water, holding offerings like fruits, thekua, which is a traditional sweet, and other symbolic items in bamboo baskets. For Indians in the USA, communities gather at lakes, rivers, or even ponds to conduct this ritual.

Usha Arghya (Day 4)

On the last day of Chhath Puja, devotees present their prayers to the increasing sun. This marks the end of the fasting schedule and is almost like hope, new horizons, and divine goodwill.

Chhath Puja in USA

For Indian groups in the USA, there are often gatherings near a river, lake, or a community center that might permit the gathering. So many temples and cultural events plan Chhath Puja gatherings where devotees may perform rituals together at those places.

Places Where Chhath Puja Gatherings Are Held,

California: There are gathering points near water bodies here both in Los Angeles as well as in the Bay Area.
New York: The Hudson River and community ponds are congregation sites for New York’s Indian population.
Chicago: Groups come together near Lake Michigan or local rivers.
Houston: Local temples and societies commonly conduct Chhath Puja for the devotees.

Food and Prasad in Chhath Puja

The food during Chhath Puja is purely vegetarian and can be prepared salt-free, garlic-free, and onions-free. The most common prasad are:
Thekua: A traditional sweet made of wheat flour, jaggery, and ghee.
Rice Pudding (Kheer): Rice, milk, and sugar, which means purity and dedication.
Fruits: Banana, coconut, and sugarcane, which are used as an offering.
All these things are offered in bamboo baskets to Surya and Chhathi Maiya.

FAQs about Chhath Puja 2024 in the USA

Chhath Puja time is to rejuvenate Indians in USA to their cultures and spiritual lives. In the midst of a country of great diversity, one can’t help but talk about this festival of pureness, and devotion, where all remember the bond they share with tradition and society, transcending the geography, when families and friends together offer Arghya. The blessings of the Sun God infuse every aspect and bring divine delight among all.

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Bhai Dooj 2024 will be celebrated on Thursday, November 2nd. This post explains the traditions, rituals, and ways to celebrate Bhai Dooj in the USA.

Bhai Dooj 2024 Date and Time in the USA

Bhai Dooj is usually accompanied by a tilak ceremony and prayers for the brothers’ long life and prosperity. Here are the dates and important times:

Date: Thursday, November 2, 2024
Aparahna Time Tilak Muhurat (Best Time for Tilak): 01:31 PM to 03:47 PM (Local Time in the USA)
Remember to always adjust this time to your local time zone so you can do all this at the best time.

Bhai Dooj Significance

Bhai Dooj is a festival where the bond between siblings finds its root in love, care, and protection. According to belief, on this day, Yamraj, the god of death, came to his sister Yamuna. Yamuna welcomed him with a tilak and prayers for her brother’s good health. Yamraj was so touched by her love that he vowed to protect her and wished her prosperity. This indicates the commitment of sisters offering prayers for the safety and happiness of their brothers.

How to Celebrate Bhai Dooj in the USA

Even though living afar from India may make things feel somewhat different, the beautiful celebration of Bhai Dooj can surely be done with some adaptation. Here’s how to make it memorable:

1. Virtual Tilak Ceremony
   If your brother is far-off, connect virtually through video calls for tilak ceremony. You may place a tilak on your screen or just say a prayer and wish for the good well-being of each other.
2. Prepare Special Bhai Dooj Sweets
   Celebrate with traditional Indian sweets like barfi, laddus, or even kheer if you can prepare at home. Many Indian stores in the USA also offer sweets around Diwali, so you can find something delicious to share with your family.
3. Gift Exchange and Personal Notes
   Surprise your sibling with a thoughtful gift or a personalized note to celebrate the love and appreciation of your sibling. Some popular gift ideas are clothing, accessories or books, written according to their interest.
4. Donate Together
   In many families, Bhai Dooj is an opportunity for donating towards a cause. If you live in the USA, make a donation together with your sibling, or donate to a charity that is meaningful to the two of you.
5. Host a Family Get-Together or Party
   If you have family members or friends staying nearby, get them to celebrate with you. It’s a fantastic way to introduce Indian culture to others, and celebrations with family members make the day even more memorable.

Sincere Bhai Dooj Messages for 2024

Here are some sweet Bhai Dooj messages that you can send to your siblings:

“Happy Bhai Dooj 2024! May our bond be as strong as ever, and may happiness and prosperity follow you always.”
“Wishing my dear brother a joyous Bhai Dooj. May your life be full of blessings, love, and success.”
“To my lovely sister, Happy Bhai Dooj! Thank you for always being there. May this year bring you peace and prosperity.”
“Though we’re miles apart, our bond is as close as ever. Happy Bhai Dooj to my wonderful sibling!”
“Sending you lots of love and blessings on Bhai Dooj. May you always be happy, healthy, and safe.”

Bhai Dooj 2024 is a special day to celebrate the love and bonding of a sibling. Even though in America, Indian families get the chance to enjoy all the fun and happiness aspects of this festival by writing greeting cards, making homemade sweets, and gathering their near and dear ones over here to make this Diwali festival the joyous and memorable one with which it has always delighted India.

FAQs About Bhai Dooj 2024 for Indians in the USA

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Dhanteras will be on 28th of October, 2024. Here’s a step-by-step guide to assist you in performing Dhanteras Puja in the USA comprising of auspicious time and step-by-step guidelines.

Dhanteras 2024 Muhurat in the USA

The most auspicious time for Dhanteras Puja is after sunset. Here are general guidelines for Dhanteras puja in the USA.
Dhanteras Puja Muhurat:
06:25 PM to 08:12 PM (local time in most major cities in the USA)

Duration:
1 hour 47 minutes

Amavasya Tithi Starts:
05:22 AM on October 28th, 2024

Amavasya Tithi Ends:
07:46 AM on October 29th, 2024

Please note that puja timings may be different by a few minutes depending upon your place in the USA. It would be better to refer to the precise muhurat in your city.

Also Read: Dhanteras 2024: Date, Time, and Puja Muhurat for Indians in the USA

Puja Items Required for Dhanteras

Here is the list of all the important things that you would require to perform Dhanteras puja:

• Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari’s idol or photograph
• Small Clay or Metal Diya with Ghee or Oil
• Fresh marigold flowers
• Coconut, betel leaves, and betel nuts
• Grains of rice and wheat
• Roli or Kumkum for ‘Tilak’
• Homemade or store-bought Indian sweets
• Kalash, a metal pot filled with water.
• Silver or gold coins or any recent purchase (as offering)
• A small bowl of rice for aarti

Dhanteras Puja Vidhi (Step-by-Step Procedure)

1. Clean the Puja Area
   Clean your house, particularly the area where you are going to perform the puja.
   It is said that cleanliness welcomes Goddess Lakshmi to your house and so fetches prosperity.
2. Mount the Puja Altar
   Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanwantari Idols or Photos
   Clean altar with new flowers, marigold flowers in particular. You may place diyas (lamps) beside the idols.

Also Read: Dhanteras 2024 USA: What to Buy for Good Luck and Prosperity

1. Prepare Diya
   Light a small diya with ghee or oil and put it in front of the deities. You can put more diyas all around your home.
   This diya is nothing but the source of the light that wards away the evil darkness and negativity.
2. Water and Food
   In the Kalash, keep pure water, and on top of it, place a coconut and keep it there as a symbolic oblation.
   Provide some grains (rice or wheat) and put them in front of the deities.
   Provide some sweets and fruits to Goddess Lakshmi as prasad.
3. Reading Prayers and Mantra
   Recite traditional Lakshmi mantras or any prayer that you know. You can even play recorded mantras in case you are not sure whether you can recite them or not.
   Gifting Roli (red powder) to the deities and performing a small aarti by the circular motion of the lamp.
4. Gift of Newly Bought Things
   Keep all the gold, silver, or newly purchased things, such as utensils, in front of the deities.
   This is inviting new wealth and prosperity to your house.
5. Distribute Prasad
   As soon as the puja is over, distribute the prasad, which encompasses sweets and fruits, to your family members and kith and kin.
   Light more diyas in your house when the day lapses into night.
6. Aarti of Conclusion
   Perform an aarti while lighting and praying to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari.
   During the aarti, you may say “Om Jai Lakshmi Mata” or any other part that you want.
   

Significance of Dhanteras

Prosperity, Health, and Wealth: Dhanteras is the day of worship for prosperity, health, and wealth. It is said that if this puja was done on that day, then it would bring prosperity, health, and well-being to your house.
New Purchases: In many cases, a number of people get something new, especially gold, silver, and utensils, as a symbol of welcoming wealth into their lives.
Health and Healing: On this very day, the god Lord Dhanvantari is also worshipped. He is the god of Ayurveda and health. Family members pray to him to get good health for the family.

Celebrating Dhanteras 2024 in the USA is not any different from back home. It involves some simple preparation of the Dhanteras puja along with the auspicious timings. It brings a smile to the family’s face and makes way for prosperity, good health, and happiness entering your house. Be it just lighting diyas, offering sweets, or buying new things; the essence of this festival remains the same you invite positive energy into your life.

Dhanteras 2024 USA FAQs

The post Dhanteras Puja Vidhi 2024: Simple Steps, Muhurat, and Significance for Indians in the USA appeared first on Gharsaa.

Here is a list of food items you can celebrate Dhanteras 2024 with because they are considered to bring good fortune and prosperity.

Image Source: herzindagi.com

Here is a list of food items you can celebrate Dhanteras 2024 USA:

Rice Items

Significance: Rice is considered a sacred one for many in Indian rituals and is used for purity and prosperity. On Dhanteras, dishes like kheer or pulao can be prepared and offered to the gods.
What to Try in the USA : Prepare local ingredients like rice and make these traditional dishes. This could be a saffron-infused rice pudding or a festive vegetable pulao, easy yet luscious in your American kitchen.

Also Read: Dhanteras 2024: Date, Time, and Puja Muhurat for Indians in the USA

Sweets (Mithai)

What it Symbolizes: Indians cannot imagine a festival without sweets. The eve of Dhanteras on one hand signifies offering and then eating sweets to bring joy, prosperity, and good fortune.
What to Try in the USA: Traditional Indian sweets, such as laddus, barfi and jalebis, are always a hit. If you are particularly busy, Indian sweets are available in any local Indian grocery store, or you can try some simple recipes, such as coconut laddus or semolina halwa.

Ghee-containing dishes

Symbolism: Ghee is taken as a symbol of prosperity and richness. You cook special meals for the family and present offerings to the deities.
What to Try in the USA: You can cook dishes such as ghee-laden parathas, puran poli, or even ghee for sweets like besan laddus. The richness of ghee symbolizes wealth and good health for the coming year.

Also Read: Dhanteras 2024 USA: What to Buy for Good Luck and Prosperity

Pomegranate

Symbolism: Pomegranates signify fertility, abundance, and success. The deep red color of the fruit is taken to symbolize riches and good fortune.
What to Try in the USA: Pomegranate is stocked in almost any American grocery store. You may use them as ingredients in making fresh fruit salads, add it to the traditional dishes, or just serve the seeds during your offering.

Dairy Products

Symbolism: Milk is treated like something pure and pure, and diary products like curd and paneer are put to widespread use in the offerings and festival food.
What to Try in the USA: Recipes for paneer curries, milk-based kheer or ras malai can be made to celebrate Dhanteras. Milk sweets are believed to usher good luck and happiness.

Coconut

Symbols: Coconut is considered sacred in the Hindu religion and is offered to the god on auspicious occasions. It represents prosperity, purity, and goodwill.
What to Try in the USA: Fresh coconut or desiccated coconut can be used in recipes such as coconut barfi or nariyal ladoo. One can also offer coconut water during prayers as a gesture of purity.

Ideas for simple dhanteras food ideas for families in the USA

If you are in the USA then you don’t get all the products but still, you can make what is locally available and prepare simple dishes which hold equal importance.

Sweet Rice (Kheer): A simple dish prepared from rice, milk, sugar. Add saffron or cardamom to enhance the flavor.
Besan Laddus: For laddus which are tasty, use ghee and chickpea flour. It would make laddus just for this time.
Fruit Salad: As pomegranates, bananas, and apples are considered lucky fruits, they can be added to an auspicious fruit salad.

Dhanteras 2024 in the United States, and you could still keep nothing out of your mind about back home traditions. Preparing or purchasing these sacred foods would keep you close to Indian roots and would help you celebrate the festival, just the same way and with the same meaning. These are sweets, ghee-based dishes, or fruits symbolically speaking. Good luck and prosperity are sure to be ushered into your family.

Dhanteras Foods FAQs

The post Auspicious Foods for Dhanteras 2024 USA: What to Eat for Good Fortune appeared first on Gharsaa.