Valentines Day is widely acknowledged as a day for lovers to celebrate the romantic festival with full gaiety & passion. The festival was originated long back and since then, it has been celebrating religiously every year on 14th of February as a day to reckon with lovers. It is also a way to pay homage to the patron saint of love and lovers, St. Valentines, who was martyred on February 14 about 270 AD. St. Valentine was supposed to be the originator of this festival.

Origination of the Festival
There are many versions known about the origination of Valentines Day. According to a version, this festival of love owes its origin to the Romans in pagan times, which celebrated Feast of Lupercalia in mid-February. The entire globe seems to be painted red on this beautiful day. The celebration starts a day before the Feast of Lupercalia to observe a holiday to honor Juno - the Roman Goddess of Women and Marriage.

Many people think that 14th February was chosen for celebrating this romantic festival because of a popular belief in France and England. People believe that this is the season of bird mating.

According to another version, Valentines day is being celebrated to pay homage to the St. Valentine who lived in Rome during the reign of Emperor Claudius II. St. Valentine defied against the unjustified order of Claudius to ban all marriages and engagements. When Claudius came to know, he put Valentine behind bars and finally executed on 14th February, 270 AD.

Essence of Valentines Day
In the ancient times, lovers used to celebrate this festival by sending hand made cards. But the trend has changed now. The festival emerges as a day that celebrates love and not just romantic love. Now-a-days, Valentines Day cards are being gifted to parents, friends, siblings, teachers, etc. People express their love through the exchange of love gifts such as refreshing flowers, confectioneries, mementos to something even like love notes.

Going on dates has keep the essence of Valentines Day alive. The spirit of love and romance can be seen all around in parks, restaurants, malls and market complexes. Covered with various love symbols like roses, cupids, lovebirds, hearts, teddy, the market wears a festive look. Thus the commencement of February bring a feel of love and romance in the air.