Why do Catholics celebrates Ash Wednesday?

Catholics celebrate Ash Wednesday to mark the beginning of Lent, a 40-day period of fasting, prayer, and penance leading up to Easter. On this day, ashes made from burnt palm branches are imposed on the foreheads of the faithful in the shape of a cross, symbolizing repentance and mortality. It serves as a reminder of the call to reflect on one's life, seek forgiveness, and prepare spiritually for the resurrection of Jesus at Easter.