Friendship Day was originally proposed in **1930** by **Joyce Hall**, the founder of Hallmark Cards in the United States. The idea was to dedicate a day to celebrate friendships by exchanging cards and heartfelt messages. However, the day didn't gain much popularity initially and faded in the US. But in **Latin American and Asian countries**, it started gaining momentum—especially in countries like **Paraguay, India, Bangladesh, and Malaysia**.

The 2025 Jagannath Rath Yatra is not just a religious procession but a profoundly communal and spiritual event: * **Nine days of ritual devotion** culminating in shared celebration * **Massive, colorful chariots** embodying divine presence on earth * **Spiritual inclusivity**: everyone is welcome to pull the ropes