New Delhi, March 6 -- Ever seen people walking around with a smudged cross of ashes on their foreheads? If you, like us, have wondered what it means and why do Christians mark themselves with ashes, you have come to the right place as we have got all the answers including what it has to do with giving things up for Lent.

This year, Lent - a deeply meaningful season for Christians worldwide - will begin on March 5 and end on April 17. The festival is observed as a time of reflection, sacrifice and spiritual renewal that begins on Ash Wednesday and lasts for 40 days, leading up to Easter Sunday.

During this period, many believers fast, give up certain luxuries or take on acts of service to grow closer to their faith.

The tradition of wea...