Episode 1: Festivals - Indian New Year! Welcome to the very first episode of The Katha Lantern! Today, host Rutu and her favorite little explorer, Ira, are lighting the lantern to explore the biggest, most magical morning ever—the day the universe woke up.

Join us as we step away from our screens to celebrate the Indian New Year. We are exploring how this giant 'Birthday of the World' wears different "avatars" across India. Plus, we share a relatable story about a little girl named Anita. When a zooming little brother accidentally smudges her beautiful Rangoli, her perfectly sweet festival morning suddenly turns sour. Can a special, ancient festival treat help her turn things around? Let's open the giant book and find out!

The Katha Canvas (Call to Action): Little explorers, grab your paper and crayons! We want you to draw a beautiful, colorful Gudi just like they make in Maharashtra, OR draw a bright Rangoli pattern just like Anita's. Grown-ups, take a picture of their masterpiece and DM it to us on Instagram @theKathaLantern or email it to us at [email protected] we can feature it in our gallery!

Welcome to The Katha Lantern! 🏮✨

Looking for a magical, screen-free way to wind down with your little ones? Gather around and settle into your coziest spot.

Hosted by Rutu, The Katha Lantern is an immersive auditory journey into the rich worlds of Indian folktales, festivals, and ancient wisdom. In this brief sneak peek, discover what awaits you and your children this season. Together, we will solve clever puzzles with Akbar and Birbal, uncover the timeless morals of the Panchatantra, celebrate the vibrant traditions of Indian festivals, and journey across the starry deserts of the Arabian Nights.

We provide the audio; your child provides the imagination.

Mark Your Calendars:

• Grand Premiere: March 19th! Join us for our very first full episode celebrating the Indian New Year (Gudi Padwa & Ugadi).

Before you go:Please hit the "Follow" or "+" button on your podcast app right now so our first official story downloads automatically for you on March 19th!

Come say hi and join our screen-free storytelling community on Instagram: @TheKathaLantern

Stay curious as you grow, let your imaginations glow.