India, Feb. 6 -- Valentine's Week has officially begun, opening with Rose Day on February 6 and building up to its grand finale on February 14 - Valentine's Day. What was once a celebration centred on romantic partners has evolved into a global expression of love, with couples and spouses exchanging thoughtful gifts and spending quality time together, while friends and family also join in to share warmth and affection.

From handwritten notes and fresh flowers to chocolates and candlelit dinners, the day is marked worldwide as a celebration of emotional intimacy and meaningful connection. Yet, beneath its soft pink hues and romantic gestures lies a far more layered, complex and even contradictory history - one that stretches back centurie...