KATHMANDU: Today is February 14. Valentine’s Day, popularly known as ‘Love Day’, is being observed across the world  on Friday.

Valentine’s Day, which is also called Saint Valentine’s Day,  is recognized as a significant cultural, religious, and commercial celebration of romance and romantic love in many regions around the globe.

A  legend has it that Saint Valentine restored sight to the blind daughter of his judge, and wrote her a letter signed “Your Valentine” as a farewell before his execution.

The Feast of Saint Valentine was established by Pope Gelasius in AD 496 to be celebrated on February 14 in honor of the Christian martyr, Saint Valentine of Rome, who died on that date in AD 269.

On this day, people go to any greater length to express their love to their beloved ones. Couples and lovebirds express their love for each other by presenting flowers, sending valentine cards and offering presents.

Heart-shaped outline, doves, and the figure of the winged Cupid are the popular symbols of Valentine’s Day.