4 salmon fillets 1 teaspoon olive oil (or any cooking oil) 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon chilli paste (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
Preheat the air fryer to 180°C. Rub the oil over the fillets. Spread the chilli paste evenly over the top and sprinkle with salt. Place the salmon in the air fryer basket. Cook at 180°C for 10 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flaky. Serve hot with your favourite sides.
Holi, also known as the Festival of Colours, is one of the most vibrant and joyous celebrations in Hindu culture. It marks the arrival of spring, the victory of good over evil, and a time of unity, laughter, and togetherness. People play with colours (abir), throw water balloons, and enjoy traditional sweets and drinks while dancing to festive music.
The Significance of Holi
Holi is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. It celebrates the legend of Prahlad and Holika, symbolising the triumph of devotion and righteousness over arrogance and evil. The festival also honours Lord Krishna’s playful tradition of smearing colours on Radha and the gopis, which inspired the modern-day celebrations.
Holi in Newar Culture
In Newar communities, Holi is celebrated with unique traditions that blend Hindu and Buddhist influences. The festival is known as “Sithi Nakha” in some places and is a time for social gatherings and merrymaking. The celebration in Kathmandu starts a week before the main day, with the installation of the ceremonial Chir (a bamboo pole decorated with colourful cloths) at Basantapur Durbar Square. This represents the playful spirit of Holi and is later burned in a symbolic farewell to winter.
Newars celebrate Holi with “Abiraya”, a tradition of applying abir (coloured powder) as a blessing and mark of love. Families and friends gather to enjoy traditional sweets like yomari and sel roti, while children and youth play with water and colours in the streets.
While Holi in Terai and India is celebrated a day later, in Kathmandu and other hilly regions, it falls on Fagu Purnima. The festival brings people of all backgrounds together, reinforcing harmony and joy.
A Celebration of Unity and Culture
Holi is more than just a festival of colours—it is a celebration of life, love, and cultural heritage. Whether through throwing abir, sharing sweets, or coming together with loved ones, it reminds us to spread happiness and positivity.
Here in Australia, we celebrated Holi with vibrant colours, laughter, and joy, bringing together friends and neighbours for a truly unforgettable day. We danced to festive music, splashed colours on each other, and embraced the spirit of togetherness. The kids had an absolute blast, running around with water balloons and bright abir, their smiles reflecting the happiness of the festival. It was a day filled with fun, laughter, and beautiful memories, reminding us that no matter where we are, the spirit of Holi brings people closer.
During our recent stay in Tasmania, we were fortunate enough to visit the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG), and I can’t wait to share our experience with you. If you’re planning a trip to Hobart, this is one spot you definitely don’t want to miss. Located just a short walk from our hotel, the museum is not only conveniently close but also offers a wealth of fascinating exhibits for all ages to enjoy.
As we approached the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, I was immediately struck by its size. The building is impressive, with its historic architecture beautifully blending with modern spaces. Inside, the museum is spacious, offering plenty of room for visitors to explore and enjoy the various exhibits. From the moment we stepped through the doors, we were welcomed by the inviting atmosphere — it’s an educational space that feels both comfortable and engaging, making it ideal for families.
The best part? Entry is completely free! This is something I always appreciate, especially when visiting museums with children. It means you can explore without worrying about the cost piling up, making it an affordable option for families looking to experience something educational and fun.
The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery has so much to offer. Whether you’re interested in natural history, art, or local culture, there’s something for everyone here. We started our journey by walking through the natural history section, where we were greeted by impressive displays of Tasmania’s unique wildlife and ecosystems. From taxidermied animals to interactive exhibits, there was so much to learn about the island’s biodiversity.
As we moved through the galleries, we encountered beautifully curated art collections showcasing Tasmanian artists, historical artifacts, and intriguing exhibits about the region’s past. What I loved most was how the museum does an excellent job of blending history, culture, and nature in a way that kept us all captivated. The kids were particularly drawn to the interactive elements of the displays — it kept them engaged and curious as they explored the exhibits.
If you’re visiting with children, the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery is a dream come true. The museum is extremely family-friendly, with designated play areas where kids can get hands-on and dive deeper into learning. Our children had an absolute blast here, and I’m sure yours will too. One of the highlights was the play area, where the kids could run around, slide down a fun slide, and explore different interactive exhibits designed for little hands.
We spent over an hour in this section alone, as the kids were completely engrossed in the exhibits. From exploring fossils to pretending to be scientists, it was clear that the museum had been thoughtfully designed with young visitors in mind. It was a fantastic way to balance fun and learning while allowing the children to explore at their own pace.
As we explored the various exhibits, I found myself appreciating just how much the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery has to offer. It’s a place where history, art, and nature all come together in one spot. The museum is well-maintained, and the exhibits are thoughtfully displayed, making it easy to navigate and appreciate the richness of the collections. It’s one of those places where you can easily spend a couple of hours without even realising how much time has passed.
Before we left, we took some time to browse the gift shop, which had a lovely selection of locally made crafts, books, and souvenirs — a perfect way to remember our visit.
If you’re ever in Hobart, make sure to carve out some time to visit the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. With free entry, a variety of exhibits to explore, and a kid-friendly environment, it’s the perfect place for a family outing. The mix of educational and interactive exhibits, along with the spacious and welcoming atmosphere, makes it an ideal stop for anyone looking to learn more about Tasmania’s natural and cultural heritage.
Have you visited the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery? Share your experiences in the comments below
We’re currently on holiday in beautiful Tasmania, Australia, and couldn’t miss the chance to stop and wish you all a Happy New Year! 🌟✨
Hobart’s skies lit up with breathtaking fireworks, setting the perfect vibe to welcome 2025. From the lively waterfront to the festive energy all around, it’s been an unforgettable start to the year.
Here’s to a year filled with joy, adventures, and cherished memories. Let’s make 2025 amazing! 🥂🎇
From our family to yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas! May your holiday season be filled with love, laughter, and precious memories to cherish forever.🎄🎅🎁❤️
The magic of Christmas is in the air, and our neighbourhood is glowing with festive cheer! This year, the streets have come alive with twinkling lights, creative displays, and a heartwarming sense of community.
As we strolled through the neighbourhood, we were amazed by the effort and creativity everyone has put into their decorations. Houses are adorned with shimmering fairy lights, glowing reindeer, and Santa climbing chimneys. Some homes even have entire light shows synchronized to music, creating a magical experience for all who pass by.
One of my favourite displays features a life-sized nativity scene surrounded by sparkling lights, reminding us of the true spirit of Christmas. Another standout is a house with a candy-cane theme, complete with a giant inflatable snowman waving to everyone who stops to admire the view.
It’s heartwarming to see families, kids, and even pets walking around, soaking in the festive atmosphere. The lights not only brighten up the streets but also bring people together, spreading joy and laughter.
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