From Roses to Kisses: The Ultimate Valentine's Day Guide
Sujeet kumar | Feb 07, 2025, 13:50 IST
Valentine's Day originated as a Christian feast day to honor a martyr named Valentine. It may have originated from the Roman festival of Lupercalia. The holiday is named after Saint Valentine, who may have been a priest in the 3rd century AD.It was believed that The priest was discovered and imprisoned in a torture-ridden Roman jail, where he fell in love with a mysterious girl (believed to be his prosecutor's daughter). Just before his execution, Valentine sent her a love letter signed 'from your Valentine', thus originating the romantic sign-off still widely used today. Different European countries have different beliefs about celebrating Valentine’s day.During the Middle Ages, it was commonly believed in France and England that February 14 was the beginning of birds' mating season, which added to the idea that the middle of Valentine's Day should be a day for romance.
Japan,Who Celebrate Valentine on 2 Different Days:
Japan essentially celebrates "two Valentine's Days" because of the tradition of "White Day," which occurs a month later on March 14th, where men reciprocate the gifts given by women on February 14th (Valentine's Day), creating a two-part exchange of gifts signifying a more extended expression of romantic sentiment.
The first is as well on February 14th, is where females give chocolates to males they admire. Giri Choco is chocolate given in a not-romantic sense to friends, colleagues, or bosses. Honmei Choco is homemade chocolate given to men they are in love with.
The “Japanese-style Valentine's Day” also emerged, where women express affection by giving chocolates to men. The holiday became a marketing strategy by confectionery stores to boost the decline in sales during February.
Japan Valentines and White Day Celebration
Celebrating Valentine In India And Curiosity Among Different People
India has embraced Valentine’s Day Week with enthusiasm, making it one of the most cherished times of the year. Young couples exchange gifts, go on romantic dates, and express their feelings openly. Shopping malls, restaurants, and online platforms launch exclusive Valentine-themed collections, from chocolates to jewelry, making gifting easier.
Many brands run exclusive offers, and businesses such as flower shops, greeting card companies, and online marketplaces see a surge in sales. Valentine’s Week 2025 is not just for couples—it has also become an occasion for friendships and family love, with people expressing appreciation for their close ones.
Celebration Of Valentines Day In India
Valentine's Day celebrations in India are a unique blend of traditional and modern practices. Here are some interesting ways Valentine's Day is celebrated in India:
Traditional Celebrations
2. Romantic dinners: Couples enjoy romantic dinners at restaurants, often with special Valentine's Day menus.
3. Outdoor activities: Couples participate in outdoor activities, such as picnics, boat rides, or walks in parks.
Modern Twists
2. Couples spa treatments: Couples indulge in spa treatments, such as massages and facials.
3. Weekend getaways: Couples plan romantic weekend getaways to nearby cities or hill stations.
Regional Celebrations
2. Punjab: Couples participate in traditional Bhangra dance performances.
3. Goa: Couples enjoy beachside parties and romantic dinners
Blend Of Love In Different Regions
Valentine's Day celebrations span across seven days, each with its own unique theme and significance. Here's a breakdown of the days:
Week Of Togetherness
- Rose Day (February 7): Marks the beginning of Valentine's Week, where couples exchange roses as a symbol of love. Red roses signify deep love and passion, while yellow roses represent friendship and joy.¹
- Propose Day (February 8): A day to confess feelings and propose to one's beloved. It's characterized by heartfelt confessions and marks the beginning of a commitment towards selfless love.
- Chocolate Day (February 9): Celebrates the sweetness of love and relationships through the exchange of chocolates.
- Teddy Day (February 10): Adds a cuddly touch to Valentine's Week, with the exchange of soft teddy bears symbolizing warmth and comfort.
- Promise Day (February 11): Emphasizes the importance of commitment and loyalty in relationships. Couples make sincere promises to each other, vowing to stand by one another through thick and thin.
- Hug Day (February 12): Celebrates the warmth and comfort of physical affection, with hugs symbolizing love, support, and empathy.
- Kiss Day (February 13): A time to celebrate the passion and romance between partners through the exchange of kisses.
- Valentine's Day (February 14): The culminating event of Valentine's Week, dedicated to celebrating love and romance in its myriad forms.
Romantic Places To Celebrate Valentine Day :
Romantic Places To Celebrate
Beaches
Kumarakom, Kerala: A backwaters bay with small islands, known as Little Venice
Alleppey, Kerala: A backwaters, beaches, and lagoons destination, known as the Venice of the East
Cities known for their love
Agra, Uttar Pradesh: The city of the Taj Mahal, an iconic monument of love
Other romantic places
Darjeeling, West Bengal: Known as the Queen of the Himalayas
Pondicherry: Known as the French Riviera of the East.