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Tag: Google Doodle

  • Google Celebrates Persian New Year, Nowruz, with Doodle

    Google Celebrates Persian New Year, Nowruz, with Doodle

    Google Celebrates Persian New Year, Nowruz, with Doodle: Google marked the Persian New Year, Nowruz, on Tuesday with a special Google Doodle. The vibrant artwork by Iranian artist Pendar Yousefi celebrates the arrival of spring and the rich traditions of this ancient festival.

    Nowruz, meaning “new day,” is observed by over 300 million people worldwide, particularly in countries with historical ties to the Persian Empire. With roots in Zoroastrianism, it coincides with the spring equinox (March 20th this year) and symbolizes renewal and the start of a new year.

    Celebrations typically last for 13 days and include traditions like cleaning homes, resolving conflicts, exchanging gifts, and preparing special meals. In Iran, the United Nations-recognized International Day of Nowruz falls on March 21st.

    Significance of Nowruz

    Nowruz has been celebrated for over 3,000 years. It promotes peace, cultural exchange, and respect for nature. While its origins lie in Zoroastrianism, Nowruz is now embraced by people of diverse faiths and backgrounds.

    How Nowruz is Celebrated

    Key Nowruz traditions include:

    • Khoone Takoune: Thoroughly cleaning the home to start the year fresh.
    • Growing Sprouts: Symbolizing rebirth and growth.
    • Jumping Over Fire: A ritual to release negativity from the previous year.
    • Haft-Sin Table: A table set with seven symbolic items representing aspects of renewal.
    • Family Gatherings: Feasts and visits with loved ones are central to the holiday.

    Nowruz is a joyful time for people of Persian heritage and those who appreciate its message of renewal and hope.

  • Google Doodle Honors “Flow” Pioneer Mihály Csíkszentmihályi on His 89th Birthday

    Google Doodle Honors “Flow” Pioneer Mihály Csíkszentmihályi on His 89th Birthday

    Today, Google Doodle celebrates the 89th birthday of Mihály Csíkszentmihályi, the Hungarian-American psychologist renowned for his groundbreaking work in exploring happiness and creativity. Join us as we dive into his fascinating journey through life.

    In-Depth:

    Imagine a world where happiness is not just a feeling but a science. That’s the world Mihály Csíkszentmihályi delved into. He’s the brilliant mind who gave us the term “flow,” describing a state of complete immersion in an activity. It’s that magical zone where your focus is laser-sharp and joy and fulfillment dance hand in hand.

    Early Life:

    Born in 1934 in Italy, during tumultuous times, young Csíkszentmihályi faced financial hardships caused by World War II. Life wasn’t easy, and he had to step away from school to support his family. The war’s profound impact on people’s suffering fueled his burning curiosity about happiness. His quest was like a winding river through art, philosophy, and religion until he stumbled upon a lecture by Carl Jung. Jung spoke of post-war Europeans, their traumatized psyches, and their UFO sightings, which they projected into the sky.

    Education:

    At the tender age of 22, Csíkszentmihályi set sail for the United States to study psychology at the University of Chicago. During his graduate studies, he witnessed something remarkable. Painters were so engrossed in their work that they lost all track of time. They forgot about food, water, and sleep. They described this experience as being swept up in a current, thus birthing the term “flow state.”

    In 1965, he earned his PhD in Positive Developmental Psychology. In 1990, Csíkszentmihályi gifted the world with his book, ‘Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience,’ a masterpiece that has since been translated into over 20 languages.

    A Remarkable Career:

    Csíkszentmihályi’s star continued to rise as he became a Distinguished Professor of Psychology and Management at Claremont Graduate University. There, he founded and co-directed the Quality of Life Research Center, an institution dedicated to unraveling the secrets of human happiness. His wisdom earned him a place as a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and he received numerous prestigious awards, including the Clifton Strengths Prize and the Széchenyi Prize.

    Conclusion:

    Today, on Mihály Csíkszentmihályi’s 89th birthday, we celebrate not just a man, but a pioneer who delved into the depths of human happiness and brought us the concept of “flow.” His work continues to inspire, reminding us that in the pursuit of our passions, we can find the sweet spot where time stands still, and true joy resides. Happy birthday, Csíkszentmihályi! 🎉🎂