Author Archives: memoriesandsuch

Festivals of India: Kajari Teej – Celebrating the Divine Union of Shiva and Parvati

Posted on by
2
Source

India is a land of diverse cultures and traditions, where festivals hold a sacred place in the hearts of its people. Among the myriad of celebrations that adorn the Indian calendar, Kajari Teej stands out as a vibrant and deeply revered festival, particularly in the northern regions of the country. This auspicious occasion, celebrated by married women, is a testament to the enduring love and devotion between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, the divine couple whose union symbolises the eternal bond of marriage.

Kajari Teej, also known as Badi Teej, Kajali Teej, or Satudi Teej, finds its roots in the ancient Hindu scriptures and mythological tales. The word Teej refers to the third day of the lunar cycle, which holds immense significance in the Hindu calendar. This festival is celebrated on the third day of the waning moon or Krishna Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada, typically falling in August or September. This year Kajari Teej falls tomorrow.

The festival’s name, Kajari, is derived from the word Kajal, which refers to the traditional kohl or kajal used to adorn the eyes. This name is a nod to the belief that on this day, Lord Shiva applied kajal to his eyes before marrying Goddess Parvati, symbolising the beauty and allure of their sacred union.

At the heart of Kajari Teej lies the mythological tale of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati’s marriage. According to Hindu mythology, Parvati, the daughter of the Himalayas, was deeply enamoured with Lord Shiva, the supreme ascetic and the destroyer of evil. Determined to win his heart, she underwent severe austerities and penances, eventually impressing Lord Shiva with her unwavering devotion. On the auspicious day of Kajari Teej, their divine union was solemnised, marking the triumph of love and perseverance over all obstacles.

Source

Kajari Teej is primarily celebrated in the northern states of India, where it holds immense cultural and religious significance. The festival is observed with great fervour in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and parts of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.

In Rajasthan, the celebration of Kajari Teej is particularly vibrant and grand. The city of Bundi, known for its rich cultural heritage, hosts a month-long celebration that culminates on the day of Kajari Teej. The festivities in Bundi are marked by colourful processions, traditional music and dance performances, and a grand fair called the Kajali Teej Mela.

The celebration of Kajari Teej is a joyous occasion filled with rituals and traditions that honour the sacred bond of marriage and the divine love between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Married women observe a strict fast on the day of Kajari Teej, abstaining from food and water from sunrise to sunset. This fast, known as the Nirjala Vrat, is a symbol of their devotion and a means to seek blessings for a long and prosperous married life. On the eve of Kajari Teej, women adorn themselves in vibrant attire, apply henna or mehndi on their hands and feet, and decorate their homes with rangoli and diyas or earthen lamps. They then perform a special puja, offering prayers and seeking blessings from Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Clay idols of the divine couple are often placed on a red cloth, and offerings of flowers, fruits, and sweets are made. One of the most captivating aspects of Kajari Teej is the singing of traditional folk songs called Kajris. These melodious compositions narrate the love story of Shiva and Parvati, celebrating their union and the virtues of a devoted wife. Women gather in groups, adorned in colourful attire, and sing these songs with great enthusiasm, accompanied by the rhythmic clapping of hands and the beating of drums.

Source

The neem tree holds a sacred place in the celebration of Kajari Teej. It is believed that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati rested under a neem tree after their marriage. As a result, married women perform a special puja around a neem tree, adorning it with vermilion, flowers, and offerings. They also tie sacred threads around the tree, symbolising their wish for a long and prosperous married life. As the sun sets on the day of Kajari Teej, women break their fast by consuming a traditional dish made of sattu or roasted gram flour. This dish, known as Sattu ki Ghari, is prepared with love and shared among family members and friends. The breaking of the fast is accompanied by joyous celebrations, music, and the exchange of blessings.

Like many Indian festivals, Kajari Teej is steeped in mythology and folklore, with various stories and legends associated with its origin. The most widely known myth behind Kajari Teej is the story of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati’s marriage. According to the legend, Parvati, the daughter of the Himalayas, was deeply enamoured with Lord Shiva, the supreme ascetic. To win his heart, she underwent severe austerities and penances, eventually impressing Lord Shiva with her unwavering devotion. On the auspicious day of Kajari Teej, their divine union was solemnised, marking the triumph of love and perseverance over all obstacles. The neem tree holds a special place in the celebration of Kajari Teej, and there is a legend associated with its significance. It is believed that after their marriage, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati rested under a neem tree, seeking respite from the scorching sun. Since then, the neem tree has been revered as a symbol of their sacred union, and women perform a special puja around it during the festival.

Source

Another popular myth associated with Kajari Teej is the story of Lord Shiva applying kajal or kohl to his eyes before his marriage to Parvati. It is said that Shiva adorned his eyes with kajal to enhance his beauty and allure, symbolising the eternal love and devotion between the divine couple. This legend is believed to be the origin of the festival’s name, Kajari Teej. The melodious Kajri songs, an integral part of the Kajari Teej celebrations, are said to have their roots in a mythological tale. According to legend, when Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were separated for a brief period, Parvati composed and sang these songs to express her longing and devotion for her beloved husband. These songs, filled with love and longing, have since become an integral part of the festival’s celebrations.

Kajari Teej is a vibrant and deeply revered festival that celebrates the eternal love and devotion between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Through its rituals, traditions, and mythological tales, it reinforces the sacred bond of marriage and the virtues of a devoted wife. As women across northern India observe this auspicious occasion, they not only honour the divine couple but also strengthen their marital bonds and seek blessings for a prosperous and fulfilling life. Kajari Teej is a testament to the enduring power of love, perseverance, and the rich cultural tapestry that weaves together the diverse traditions of India.

In My Hands Today…

Posted on by
Reply

Becoming Fluent: How Cognitive Science Can Help Adults Learn a Foreign Language – Roger J. Kreuz, Richard Roberts

Adults who want to learn a foreign language are often discouraged because they believe they cannot acquire a language as easily as children. Once they begin to learn a language, adults may be further discouraged when they find the methods used to teach children don’t seem to work for them. What is an adult language learner to do? In this book, Richard Roberts and Roger Kreuz draw on insights from psychology and cognitive science to show that adults can master a foreign language if they bring to bear the skills and knowledge they have honed over a lifetime. Adults shouldn’t try to learn as children do; they should learn like adults.

Roberts and Kreuz report evidence that adults can learn new languages even more easily than children. Children appear to have only two advantages over adults in learning a language: they acquire a native accent more easily, and they do not suffer from self-defeating anxiety about learning a language. Adults, on the other hand, have the greater advantages—gained from experience—of an understanding of their own mental processes and knowing how to use language to do things. Adults have an especially advantageous grasp of pragmatics, the social use of language, and Roberts and Kreuz show how to leverage this metalinguistic ability in learning a new language.

Learning a language takes effort. But if adult learners apply the tools acquired over a lifetime, it can be enjoyable and rewarding.
Genres
Nonfiction
Language
Linguistics
Science
Psychology
Audiobook
Self Help

World Humanitarian Day: Celebrating the Unsung Heroes of Humanity

Posted on by
Reply

In a world where conflict, natural disasters, and poverty continue to ravage communities, leaving countless individuals in dire need of assistance, the importance of humanitarianism cannot be overstated. World Humanitarian Day, observed on August 19th, is a testament to the tireless efforts of humanitarians who risk their lives to provide aid, support, and hope to those affected by crises. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the critical role humanitarianism plays in alleviating suffering, promoting resilience, and fostering a more compassionate world.

World Humanitarian Day was first observed in 2008, following the adoption of a United Nations General Assembly resolution. The creation of World Humanitarian Day was a direct response to the tragic bombing of the United Nations headquarters in Baghdad, Iraq, on August 19, 2003. This event resulted in the loss of 22 humanitarian aid workers, including Sérgio Vieira de Mello, the UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Iraq. This devastating incident highlighted the risks and sacrifices made by humanitarian personnel in their line of duty and underscored the need for greater recognition and support for their efforts.

Humanitarianism is a philosophy and practice that seeks to alleviate human suffering, promote human dignity, and protect human life. It is rooted in the principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, and independence, which guide the actions of humanitarian organizations and individuals. Humanitarianism encompasses a broad range of activities, including disaster response, refugee support, healthcare, education, and advocacy, all aimed at addressing the needs of vulnerable populations.

Source

In today’s world, where conflicts, natural disasters, and pandemics continue to escalate, the need for humanitarianism has never been more pressing. The world is facing unprecedented humanitarian challenges, with over 200 million people in need of humanitarian assistance in 2020 alone. Conflicts, climate change, and pandemics have led to a significant increase in displacement, hunger, and disease, underscoring the critical role of humanitarians in responding to these crises. Humanitarian workers are increasingly becoming targets of violence, with attacks on aid convoys, healthcare facilities, and personnel on the rise. In 2020, 484 humanitarian workers were killed, injured, or kidnapped, highlighting the need for greater protection and support for these brave individuals. Humanitarian responses are often underfunded, with significant gaps between the needs of affected populations and the resources available to respond. In 2020, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported a funding gap of over 40% for its global humanitarian appeals.

World Humanitarian Day serves as a platform to promote international cooperation and solidarity in responding to humanitarian crises. It encourages governments, organizations, and individuals to work together to address the root causes of humanitarian needs and support those affected by crises. This day provides an opportunity to recognize and honour the unsung heroes of humanitarianism, who often work in dangerous and challenging environments to provide life-saving assistance. By celebrating their bravery and dedication, we can inspire a new generation of humanitarians to join the cause.

World Humanitarian Day raises awareness about the humanitarian challenges facing the world and advocates for policy changes, increased funding, and greater support for humanitarian efforts. It serves as a powerful platform to amplify the voices of affected communities and promote a more compassionate and equitable world.

Source

World Humanitarian Day is a poignant reminder of the critical role humanitarianism plays in alleviating suffering, promoting resilience, and fostering a more compassionate world. As we commemorate this day, we honour the bravery and dedication of humanitarians, recognize the growing humanitarian needs, and advocate for greater support and cooperation to address these challenges. In a world where crises continue to escalate, the importance of humanitarianism cannot be overstated. Let us come together to celebrate the unsung heroes of humanity and work towards a future where no one is left behind.

2024 Week 33 Update

Posted on by
Reply

Today’s quote from Tony Robbins talks about the value of personal growth, self-awareness, and authenticity. Tony Robbins is an American author, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and life coach, renowned for his self-help books, motivational seminars, and infomercials. The quote encourages embracing mistakes as learning opportunities. By understanding the root cause of a problem, one can address and overcome it, leading to personal growth. Robbins advises against striving for perfection, which is often unrealistic and can lead to unnecessary stress. Instead, he advocates for being the best version of oneself, embracing human flaws and imperfections. The focus is on being an “excellent example of being human,” which means accepting and learning from your imperfections while continuously striving for improvement. It highlights the importance of authenticity and self-compassion.

This week, I have been reading and watching about the Kolkata murder case of the young trainee doctor and reading and watching the updates to the case. I have been sick to my stomach on learning the details. In a country where we worship women and revere them, we also treat them as second-class citizens and think of them as being lesser than men. I have a lot to say about this issue but will refrain from posting them as it may become vitriolic. I have always maintained this: as the mother to a boy and now a young man, I must bring him up to respect women and treat them the same way as he treats any male. So to any parent of a young man or boy reading this, please bring up your boy to learn to respect women and become their ally.

GG has started her second year of school and the pace is faster this semester. Her lessons, which are usually 3 hours long, sometimes do not even have a bio break. She comes home exhausted after each class. But this is life and she needs to pick up the pace to do well in school.  

That’s all this week. Stay positive and keep smiling.

In My Hands Today…

Posted on by
Reply

Age of Anger: A History of the Present – Pankaj Mishra

Modernity, secularism, development, and progress have long been viewed by the powerful few as benign ideals for the many. Today, however, botched experiments in nation-building, democracy, industrialization, and urbanization visibly scar much of the world.

As once happened in Europe, the wider embrace of revolutionary politics, mass movements, technology, the pursuit of wealth, and individualism has cast billions adrift in a literally demoralized world.

It was from among the ranks of the disaffected and the spiritually disorientated, that the militants of the nineteenth century arose—angry young men who became cultural nationalists in Germany, messianic revolutionaries in Russia, bellicose chauvinists in Italy, and anarchist terrorists internationally.

Many more people today, unable to fulfill the promises—freedom, stability, and prosperity—of a globalized economy, are increasingly susceptible to demagogues and their simplifications. A common reaction among them is intense hatred of supposed villains, the invention of enemies, attempts to recapture a lost golden age, unfocused fury and self-empowerment through spectacular violence.

In Age of Anger, Pankaj Mishra explores the origins of the great wave of paranoid hatreds that seem inescapable in our close-knit world—from American “shooters” and ISIS to Trump, Modi, and racism and misogyny on social media.