Embark on a transformative journey where ancient legends and unwavering devotion converge, as millions of Kanwarias traverse sacred paths to honour Lord Shiva! Anushka Singh weaves a fascinating tale of the Kanwarias walking barefoot, abstain from consuming alcohol and meat, and maintain a state of purity and celibacy – a journey marked by communal harmony and a vibrant display of devotion. The Kanwar Yatra, an annual pilgrimage of immense spiritual significance, traces its roots back to ancient traditions and legends. Devotees, known as Kanwarias, undertake this arduous journey to fetch holy water from the sacred river Ganga and offer it…
Author: shubhangi
The Pandharpur Wari is more than a journey; it’s a living testament to Maharashtra’s deep-rooted spiritual and cultural heritage. As millions walk the sacred paths to honour Lord Vithoba, they engage in a collective act of devotion that transcends centuries. This pilgrimage, rich with legends and rituals, unites devotees in a harmonious blend of humility, music, and faith, celebrating the Bhakti movement’s enduring legacy and the transformative power of divine love. Sayali Karade takes a look. The Pandharpur Wari, an ethereal pilgrimage or procession that transcends the mundane, stands as a monumental testament to the timeless devotion embedded within the…
Diwali and Dussehra, two of India’s most cherished festivals, embody the timeless struggle between light and darkness, and good and evil. Diwali, the festival of lights, rejoices in the return of Lord Rama and the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, while Dussehra commemorates the vanquishing of demons by Lord Rama and Goddess Durga. Together, these festivals weave a vibrant tapestry of legends, rituals, and cultural splendour, drawing millions to their sacred sites and infusing India with a spirit of joy, reverence, and renewal, observes Ruchi Verma. Among the festivals celebrated in India, Diwali and Dussehra stand out as two of the…
The Jagannath Rath Yatra transforms Puri into a vibrant spectacle of faith and celebration. This grand festival, dedicated to Lord Jagannath and his siblings, features colossal chariots paraded through the streets, drawing millions of devotees. Steeped in ancient mythology and rich traditions, the Yatra symbolises the triumph of devotion and collective spirituality. With its intricate rituals, colourful processions, and profound cultural impact, the Rath Yatra is a vivid expression of unity, humility, and divine grace, finds Nandini Rao. The Jagannath Rath Yatra, one of India’s most iconic and grandiose religious festivals, is a vibrant expression of devotion, culture, and spirituality.…
Raksha Bandhan and Bhai Dooj, two cherished Indian festivals, celebrate the profound bond between siblings. Raksha Bandhan, with its protective and loving rituals, and Bhai Dooj, marking the bond with blessings and feasting, are steeped in mythology and tradition. Vedika Jain says these festivals not only reinforce familial ties but also highlight the deep emotional and cultural values that bind brothers and sisters together. Through these celebrations, the essence of sibling affection and duty is vividly brought to life. The Indian culture vividly portrays the bond between siblings as one of its most cherished and enduring relationships. Amidst the spectrum…
Indian festivals weave a vibrant tapestry celebrating the deep bond between humanity and nature. From the sun’s journey marked by Makar Sankranti to the rejuvenating arrival of spring on Vasant Panchami, these observances honour nature’s cycles and elements. Through rituals, feasts, and pilgrimages, festivals like Chhath Puja and Sarhul not only highlight our dependence on the natural world but also reflect ancient wisdom and reverence. They reaffirm our spiritual and cultural connection to nature, avers Harshita Singh. Among the festivals celebrated in India, nature emerges as a central theme in many, interwoven with sacred rites and rituals that celebrate the…
From ancient battles to vibrant celebrations, India’s festivals embody the timeless dance between good and evil. Holi, Onam, and Bonderam: each festival paints a unique picture of triumph, unity, and the rich tapestry of cultural resilience. Join in the vivid tapestry of traditions where history and joy intertwine, reflecting a nation’s spirit in full colour. Nimisha Lakhia paints a colourful picture of a colourful festival. India, through its timeless epochs, has stood as the crucible of conflict, a land where battles of both myth and history have left an indelible mark on the collective consciousness of its people. From the…
Nestled in the heart of Western India, Kolhapur offers a captivating blend of ancient temples, grand architecture, and vibrant culture. From the revered Mahalakshmi Temple to the majestic New Palace, this city weaves its rich historical tapestry with modern vibrancy. Explore Kolhapur’s dynamic markets, indulge in its renowned cuisine, and immerse yourself in its lively festivals for an unforgettable journey through tradition and progress. Nandini Rao sketches the contours of a fascinating city steeped in history. Kolhapur, located in Western India in the state of Maharashtra, is often overlooked by tourists visiting India’s iconic cities such as Mumbai and…
“Trivialisation of art is more worrisome than its commercialization.” An innovative streak and a novel approach mark Salim Arif’s creations – be it his directional adventures in theatre or his costume designing in films like Maachis and Sardar and TV serials like Chanakya, Mirza Ghalib and Bharat Ek Khoj. His blending of traditional with the contemporary reflects in his body of work — which is not only diverse but covers a wide spectrum of audience as well. In a freewheeling interview with Tuhina Banerjee, he talks about his chequered journey, his convictions about art and artists and how he envisions…
India’s crisis of sexual violence: Every hour, every day, a staggering reality. As rape cases rise, so must our resolve for justice and reform. From the heartbreak of Kolkata to nationwide outrage, it’s time to act decisively and protect every victim, suggests Raju Korti. Amid the country’s outrage over the rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor in Kolkata, the statistics of rape, paint a grim picture. As per the annual National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) report, between 2017 and 2022, a total of 1.89 lakh rape cases were reported in India, involving 1.91 lakh victims. In at least…