Author Archives: memoriesandsuch

Travel Bucket List: Nepal – Part 15

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Shashwat Dham
Located on the East-West Highway in Devchuli, Shashwat Dham is a Hindu religious site and tourist destination. The spiritual site consists of a temple of lord Shiva and a Vedic karmakanda gurukul spread over 12 acres.

The main temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known as Ekambareshwor. It is modelled in the Khajuraho style of architecture. The temple is surrounded by a pond filled with water from various holy shrines from the Indian subcontinent such as Badrinath, Kedarnath, Muktinath and Pashupatinath. The temple houses 16 deities, with the sanctum sanctorum belonging to the Shivalinga. The abode of Lord Shiva here is called Ekambareshwara, and it is surrounded by holy waters from the seven sacred rivers of Nepal – Saptagandaki.

The Manuscript Resource Centre unearths and preserves as many as possible. There are expert scholars to decode the archived manuscripts and spread the Sanatana knowledge to the masses for their understanding.

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The Centre for Meditation and Yogic Sciences is a sanctuary for all seeking peace and happiness. The tranquil environment helps calm the mind and relief from the stress of the outside world, and the daily spiritual lectures, yoga sessions and satsangs help them find their true self. There is also a museum which allows visitors to learn about spiritual destinations in Nepal. One should not miss the Kamal Kund beside the Gurukul area, where there are many lotuses in bloom usually and create a lovely sight to behold. Sahastra Saligram in the north-east or Ishan Kona, as it is called in Vedic terms, is a collection of 1000 saligram stones – the most natural manifestation of Lord Krishna. The popular belief is, circumambulation of the stones energises the mind and spirit with positivity.

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Shashwat Dham has a Dhunge Dhara and a water reservoir with cow-faced stone taps. The Hanuman Chhatra Temple and Dharma Kshetra, with a statue of Arjuna en route to the great war of Kurukshetra with Krishna as his charioteer in the temple complex, adds to the beauty of the place.

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Gorkha
Formerly known as Prithvinarayan Municipality, Gorkha was originally named after King Prithvi Narayan Shah, who was born in Gorkha and united and founded modern Nepal. In 2009, the name was changed to Gorkha after the end of the monarchy in Nepal.

The old royal palace or Gorkha Durbar, Gorakhnath and the Kalika Temple dedicated to Goddess Kali are the main attractions of the town. The Royal Palace was destroyed in the 2015 earthquake, but the Gorakhnath shrine and Kalika temple are open with no entrance charges. The lower palace or Tallo Durbar and a modern park are other major attractions. Gorkha is also the starting point of the Manasalu Himal or Mount Manasalu and Mount Ganesh trekking route.

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The Gorkha Museum’s Newari-style architecture is grander than the collection inside. The hallways inside are lined with art and craft items, some weapons and historical remnants of the Newari culture and the Shah and Malla kingdoms. It’s the corridors and galleries and hallways themselves, and the huge garden outside that steals the show.

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The Manakamana Temple is one of the most sacred places and the abode of the Hindu Goddess Bhagwati, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. This temple is much-visited because of the belief that whatever one wishes for in this shrine is granted. There is a fantastic cable car ride over the green valleys from Kurintaar to Manakamana temple.

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The Manaslu trekking is the most exciting thing to look forward to. Mount Manaslu lies just towards the east of the great Annapurna massif. The highest point of the trek is at Larkya La pass, from where a breathtaking view of the Manaslu can be savoured.

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Gorkha has temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, Lord Ganesh and Lord Bhimsen, the Newari god of money and commerce and is very much revered in close vicinity. The Durbar Square is the prime attraction of the Gorkha valley, being the birthplace and early home to unified Nepal’s first ruler, Prithvi Narayan Shah. The complex is a fort, a palace and a religious destination all punched into one. Perching atop high hills, Gorkha Durbar overlooks the sprawling emerald-green Trisuli Valley. If one looks down from the edge, one can see the tiniest sliver of a stream flowing through the valley. And straight ahead, one can see the entire range of Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal and Himalchuli, standing majestically in the distance.

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The Durbar area is where the Gorkha Palace stands towards the east. To reach the palace called Dhuni Pati, one has to climb 1700 steps from the bottom of the hill. It is a taxing adventure to pursue, but for those up to the challenge, it can be quite rewarding to finally finish the hike and be surprised by the spectacular panorama. This palace is where the first ruler of a unified Nepal was born and raised. From the windows of the palace, the king as a child prince used to look out at the entire valley and imagine it as his one day – or so says the lore.

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There are several other attractions in Durbar Square, of which many were not harmed in the 2015 earthquake. The western gate of the durbar leads to the 17th-century Kalika Temple, a shrine devoted to the goddess of death and doom, Goddess Kali. The architecture is a mind-blowingly psychedelic one, with peacocks, serpents, demons and angels all interwoven in the wooden carvings. Near the palace is the mausoleum of Guru Goraknath, the saint who is said to have been the mentor and guide for young Prithvi Narayan Shah. Towards the northern gate is a towering statue of Lord Hanuman, coloured vividly in orange and red. From here, one can go visit a rocky platform called Chautara, with four sets of carved footprints, believed to be of Sita, Rama, Guru Goraknath and Guru Padmasambhava.

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Bandipur
Known for its preserved, old time cultural atmosphereis, Bandipur is a hilltop settlement and rural municipality in the Gandaki province. Bandipur is located on an elevation of 1030 m on a mountain saddle of the Mahabharat range approximately 700 m above the Marsyangdi River Valley, 143 km to the west of Kathmandu and 80 km to the east of Pokhara. Since 1998 it is connected by an 8 km access road from Dumre, on the Prithvi Highway. The mountain saddle, just 200m long, is barely wide enough to accommodate the main street lined by 2 –3 storey buildings on either side. Behind these houses the mountainsides steeply descend and the gardens are only accessible by stairs.

Bandipur was established as a funnelling point of trade by Newar traders from Bhaktapur in the Kathmandu valley after it had been conquered in 1768 by Prithvi Narayan Shah. They took advantage of its malaria free location to develop it into an important stop along the India-Tibet trade route. With them they brought their cultural heritage and architecture which basically has remained unchanged to this day.

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Originally a simple Magar village in the early 19th century, Bandipur developed into a prosperous trading centre and a community with town-like features: substantial buildings, with their neoclassical façades and shuttered windows and streets paved with slabs of silverish slate. Bandipur had its heyday in the Rana times between 1846 and 1951, when, as a measure of its power and prestige, it was granted special permission to have its own library which still exists.

In the 1970s, trading fell into a steep decline with the construction of the Prithvi Highway. For technical reasons it was logically built in the Marsyangdi valley, leaving Bandipur isolated up on the mountain. In addition to that, as a result of its poor accessibility, Bandipur lost importance because the district headquarters of Tanahun were moved to Damauli. The tradesmen of Bandipur were forced to move down to Dumre and many even left for the Terai; Bandipur turned into a semi-ghost town. The population declined considerably.

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On two occasions Bandipur has witnessed some turmoil. The people were not easily and readily sidestepped by the construction of the road and fought for a different route in the planning process. In the 1970s, when the first demonstrations for democracy took place in Nepal, the people of Bandipur stormed the little garrison. Several people were killed and the soldiers fled. Again, when the district headquarters were to be moved, the people demonstrated and occupied the administration. The civil servants fled during the night. Even the king was flown in by helicopter to calm the situation. However, the decline of the little town could not be reversed. Some relics of its wealthy past remain. Although many houses are in bad condition, the typical Newari architecture is preserved. A distinctive aspect of Bandipur’s main street is a covered veranda extending along almost the entire length on the northern side. Most of the buildings still have little shops in them. The slate slabs in the main street have been destroyed by heavy vehicles, for which they were not made, but they can still be made out along the edges and in the smaller alleys. The library still exists and was carefully renovated in 2000. Another relic is a soccer-field-sized Tundikhel to the northeast of Bandipur and the villages importance as centre for schools for the surrounding villages.

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Siddha Gufa Cave is 1.5 hours trek away from the northern end of the town through a muddy and exciting road for those who love adventure. For a shorter walk, one can take the route from Bimalnagar on the Prithvi Highway, it takes only 45 minutes. Once one reaches the entrance, a ladder-like staircase will take one down from the cave’s mouth into the enormous cavern. It is hard to imagine the interior of Siddha Gufa from outside. Stalactites and stalagmites adorn the centuries-old walls of the cave. Abstract rock formations carve climbing routes inside the cave and give it a mysterious look. With a depth of 437 metres and a height of 50 metres, it is the highest cave in Nepal.

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Yet another shrine, this one is not for a deity but the sword of Mukunda Sen, the 16th-century Palpa King. Now, what is so special about a sword that it needs to be enshrined? Legend says that Lord Shiva himself gifted this sword to the King and the blade is a manifestation of Adi Shakti – the feminine power of the cosmos. Once a year during Vijaya Dashami or Dasain, as they say there, the blade of the sword gets sacrificial blood.

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Thani Mai is a small white temple at the top of Gurungche Hill, dedicated to the mother goddess. Visit the temple to have a stunning, 360-degree vista of the entire place, with the majestic ranges of the Himalayas rising to the sky from behind all along the horizon. The climb is only 30 minutes and not that hard, and the spectacle from up above is a reward worth savouring. Sunrises and sunsets are exceptionally beautiful from here.

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Bindebasini temple is an old and ornate shrine at the northeast end of Dumre bazaar, which is the main shopping lane. The walls of the temple are carved with scriptures and shlokas, giving it a mystic look all over. The shrine is dedicated to Goddess Durga. The courtyard leading up to the temple and the shrine itself will take one back to the old days.

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Visiting the silkworm farm, after a 2.5 km downhill hiking from the Heritage Guest House, is a unique experience. On request and a small donation, a professional in the farm will show you the mulberry orchards that the farm owns, which are the foods for the silkworms. The worms are reared indoors from August to December and from March to May. But the process goes on all year long, and one can see it anytime from 10 am to 4 pm, Sunday to Friday.

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Padma Library is not a very well-stocked one in terms of books, but it is worth a visit because of its impressive 18th-century architecture with carved windows and beams. It stands near Bindebasini Temple, so both attractions can be combined.

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Tundikhel is a large, green table-top ground open for the public. Once upon a time, this man-made plateau region was used by traders to sell off some goods before making their way to Tibet or India. The ground was also used for parade purposes by the Gorkha regiment. Today, it is open to everyone. Tundikhel offers a spectacular view of the Himalayan range behind the immediate houses and buildings. Peaks like Dhaulagiri, Langtang Lirung, Manaslu and Ganesh Himal can be spotted in the distance. It is a good place to breathe in some fresh air and enjoy a beautiful sunset.

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Narayangarh
An important trading post, located in the centre of Bharatpur, Narayangarh or Narayanghat is a major transportation and commercial hub located on the bank of the Narayani River. The town is famous for Taas, a spicy fried goat-meat lunch dish served with bhuja or chiura. This moderately crowded city falls under the bigger umbrella of Bharatpur City and under the administrative jurisdiction of Chitwan district in southern Nepal.

The Narayangarh-Mugling Highway, which is the main driving route via the hills up to Pokhara and the capital Kathmandu, meets the east-to-west road called Mahendra Highway. The confluence of these two main arteries is one of the busiest places in Nepal, both for local traffic as well as tourism. Any car driving from the Indian border will have to cross the Narayangarh-Bharatpur area to reach the capital is also a driving factor behind its rising popularity. Narayngarh is most popularly known as the gateway to the Chitwan National Park. Canoeing in the Rapti River and ox-cart riding are some offbeat adventures that one can indulge in here.

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The Bish Hazari Taal which translates to 20,000 lakes is called so because the water bodies in this place are divided into numerous small and big ones, which make it look like there are too many. The lake is a resting ground for a variety of bird species which fly over Nepal while migrating south, and thus a must-visit for birdwatchers. Bish Hazari Taal also has a lot of crocodiles hiding in the swamps.

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The confluence of Kali Gandaki and Trishuli Rivers is considered to be a holy confluence forming the River Narayani, which is an important tributary of the Ganges. A few km drive up northeast from Narayangarh will bring one to this beautiful confluence. The village that surrounds the river confluence is called Devghat and can be reached via a suspension footbridge.

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A half an hour’s drive from Narayangarh will take one to Tharu village. The Tharus are one of the largest ethnic groups of Nepal and indigenous habitats of the Terai region. The Tharu Cultural Museum is the main attraction which was built to conserve the heritage of the Tharus. The museum houses multiple models, artefacts, weapons, potteries and other articles about the cultural and ethnic history of the Tharus. There are cultural shows and festivals as well occasionally, where the Tharu people perform and sell their handmade products for the visitors.

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Bharatpur
Nepal’s third most populous city and located in south central Nepal, Bharatpur is also the second largest metropolitan city in the country by area. One of the fastest-growing cities in Nepal, Bharatpur lies on the eastern bank of the Narayani River and serves as a commercial centre of the Chitwan district and the central region of Nepal.

The Chitwan National Park is home to one-horned rhinos, elephants, Bengal tigers, crocodiles, deer and many other wild animals. It is the third largest tourist destination in Nepal after Kathmandu and Pokhara. The park has been listed in the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1983.

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The Narayani River flows north to south in the south of Bharatpur. It is the deepest and one of the largest rivers in Nepal. The Narayani Bridge connects the Chitwan District with the Nawalpur District of Nepal. Small islands, like Nagarban in the Narayani River, are popular picnic spots. The Rapti River flows east to southwest in the south of Bharatpur and meets the northern border of the Chitwan National Park.

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The Tinkhole Monastery is a local favourite and the temple’s architecture reflects the Buddhist way of life. The Ganeshthan Temple at Baseni is the most famous Hindu temple in Bharatpur. This temple is believed to be constructed by Muni Makunda Sen, King of Palpa in the 15th century, but the modern temple was constructed in 1952 in the period of King Mahendra. The Bageshwari Temple is an ancient temple believed to have been built before Muni Makunda Sen and was renovated by Yogi Narahari Nath. The Harihar Temple lies on the banks of the Narayani River. The Mahakaleshwar Shiva Mandir is the only temple dedicated to Lord Shiva around Bharatpur. Along with the building, the temple has 108 lingams, a fire pit, a statue of Lord Hanuman statues, Satsang halls and Ganesha temples. The Gauri Kund can also be seen in the temple periphery. The Kalika Temple is located in Gaindakot and was built around 1992 on the top of the hill. The Jakhadi Mai Temple is on the eastern corner of the jungle and was constructed in 1982 by the locals. The Durga Temple was built by the police force within the compound of Bharatpur’s Police Academy in 1992 while the Rameshwar Temple was built in 1994. It is the city’s busiest temple and serves people through a health post.

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Located in the old headquarters of Chitwan district, the Upardanghari Fort is believed to have been built by Satrubhanjan Shah, son of the prince Bahadur Shah, to defend the newly founded kingdom in the seventeenth century. The Kasara Durbar is an old palace built by Rana Regime inside the Chitwan National Park. Now, it is being used as an office of the park and hosts a museum. The Diyalo Bangala Palace or Aptari Bharatpur was the summer palace used by the Shah dynasty. It is located on the banks of Narayani River. The small islands on Narayani River that can be reached by launches, like Nagarban, are lovely spots for a picnic.

In My Hands Today…

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The Art of Being Alone – Renuka Gavrani

Taylor Swift said once, “The scary news is, you are on your own now. But the cool news is, you are on your own now”

The fear of loneliness was injected into our minds since we were kids. We have learned that the kid who eats, sits, and has no friends is pathetic. In every book or movie, the kid who eats alone and has no friends is always featured as a weak character who needs to be saved. Pick any book or movie, and you will observe a common pattern around loneliness. These people were shown as easy targets or an object of your sympathy.

No one wants to be seen as a ‘weirdo’ hence, our dread of being alone. We don’t want people to think of us as someone who needs to be saved or mocked. Someone who is unwanted or doesn’t fit in with the cool kids. We don’t want people to think that no one chose us. So what do we do? We start becoming like an ideal version of whom everyone loves. And in the race of achieving people’s acceptance and love, you end up losing yourself.

The Art of Being Alone is not just another book. It’s a story of my life. I have been alone for the majority of my life. And I still am. The only difference is, earlier I used to wish for the kind of best friend who will save me and now I enjoy every day with myself, doing things that I always wanted to and using my ‘alone time’ to GROW MYSELF and build my dream life.

And through my book, I want to take you on the journey of being cool with being alone. I have spent most of my life wishing for people to stay or have fun with me while ignoring my soul waiting for me to pay attention to myself. I know it’s tough to be lonely. But I promise, it’s fun to be alone. And it’s even more amazing when you use your alone time to build your dream life, achieve your goals, and fall in love with yourself.

We fear loneliness because we have been manipulated into believing that loneliness is a curse. And in the hope of finding people, we often end up losing ourselves and doing things that we hated in the first place. Why? Why do you hate the idea of being with yourself so much that you are ready to settle for the bare minimum?

But enough is enough. I have divided this book into two sections. The first section is about transforming loneliness into solitude. And the second section is about how you can use your solitude to turn into your growth period. If you are ready to transform your perception around loneliness and if you are all set to achieve your goals using your ‘alone time’ then welcome to ‘The Art of Being Alone’

Festivals of India: Pana Sankranti

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Also known as Maha Vishuba Sankranti, Pana Sankranti is a vibrant and culturally significant festival celebrated in Odisha. This auspicious occasion marks the traditional Odia New Year and heralds the arrival of spring, serving as a time for renewal, spiritual reflection, and communal joy. Falling on the first day of the Odia calendar month of Baisakha, typically around mid-April, Pana Sankranti coincides with the solar transit into the Mesha (Aries) Rashi, lending it cultural and astrological importance.

The roots of Pana Sankranti can be traced back to ancient times, with references found in various scriptures and texts. The festival’s origins are deeply intertwined with the agrarian culture of the region. Marking the beginning of the new agricultural year, the festival highlights its importance in the traditional Odia way of life.

One of the most significant aspects of Pana Sankranti is its association with Lord Jagannath, the presiding deity of the Puri Jagannath Temple. According to legend, Lord Jagannath created the Pana drink to remedy the scorching summer heat. Another mythological tale associated with Pana Sankranti involves Lord Vishnu’s incarnation as Varaha (the boar). It is believed that on this day, Lord Vishnu rescued the Earth from the demon Hiranyaksha, an act of divine intervention that is commemorated through various rituals and prayers during the festival.

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Pana Sankranti is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervour across Odisha, with each region adding its unique cultural flavour to the festivities. At the festival’s heart is the preparation and sharing of Pana, a special drink that gives the festival its name. This refreshing concoction is made from many ingredients, including water, jaggery, fruits, and sometimes milk or yoghurt. The Pana is not only a delicious treat but also serves a symbolic purpose, representing the essence of life and the spirit of sharing. It is offered to deities and distributed among family members, friends, and neighbours, fostering a sense of community and togetherness.

Devotees mark Pana Sankranti by visiting temples dedicated to various deities, with special emphasis on Lord Jagannath, Lord Shiva, and Goddess Tarini. The Tarini Temple near Brahmapur and the Cuttack Chandi are particularly popular pilgrimage sites during this time. One of the most spectacular rituals associated with Pana Sankranti is the Jhaamu Yatra at Sarala Temple, where priests walk across hot coals, demonstrating their devotion and faith. This awe-inspiring display draws many spectators and adds to the festival’s mystical atmosphere.

Pana Sankranti is also a time for vibrant cultural expression. One of the most notable traditions is the Danda Nacha, or Danda Jatra, an ancient dance form dedicated to Goddess Kali. Performed by a group of men known as Danduas, this dance is a testament to physical endurance and spiritual devotion, often involving acrobatic feats and rhythmic movements. In different parts of Odisha, various cultural events mark the occasion. For instance, in Chhatrapada, Bhadrak, the Patua Yatra festival spans from April 14th to April 21st, bringing communities together. Northern Odisha resonates with the festivities of Chadak Parva, while in the south, the Meru Yatra festival marks the culmination of the month-long Danda Nata dance festival.

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The festival is a time for strengthening social bonds. In urban areas, Odia families often gather in community halls to celebrate together, while in rural settings, the festival takes on a more traditional flavour with community-wide celebrations. These gatherings often feature feasts where traditional delicacies are shared, further reinforcing the sense of community and shared cultural heritage.

Pana Sankranti holds deep significance in Odia culture, embodying various symbolic meanings and cultural values. As the traditional New Year, Pana Sankranti symbolises new beginnings and fresh starts. It’s a time for people to clean their homes, wear new clothes, and set positive intentions for the year ahead. This reflects the universal desire for renewal and the opportunity to begin anew. Pana Sankranti marks the beginning of the new agricultural year. This connection to the land reminds people of the importance of agriculture in their lives and the need to maintain harmony with nature. The festival provides an opportunity for spiritual reflection and devotion. The various rituals, temple visits, and prayers associated with Pana Sankranti allow people to connect with their spiritual beliefs and seek divine blessings for the coming year.

Several myths and legends are associated with Pana Sankranti, adding depth and richness to the festival’s cultural significance. According to one legend, Pana Sankranti is linked to the story of Lord Vishnu’s incarnation as Lord Jagannath. It is believed that on this day, Lord Jagannath, with his siblings Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra, embarked on their annual journey to the Gundicha Temple in Puri, known as the Ratha Yatra. The legend of Lord Jagannath creating the Pana drink as a remedy for the summer heat explains the origin of this central element of the festival and emphasises the belief in divine intervention in everyday life. The myth of Lord Vishnu, in his Varaha avatar, rescuing the Earth from the demon Hiranyaksha on this day adds a cosmic dimension to the festival. This story symbolises the triumph of good over evil and the restoration of cosmic order, themes that resonate with the idea of new beginnings associated with the New Year.

While Pana Sankranti is primarily celebrated in Odisha, similar festivals marking the solar New Year are observed across South and Southeast Asia. These include Vaisakhi in North and Central India and Nepal, Bohag Bihu in Assam, Pohela Boishakh in Bengal, and Puthandu in Tamil Nadu. Each of these festivals shares common themes of renewal and celebration while incorporating unique regional traditions and customs.

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In Odisha, the celebration of Pana Sankranti can vary from region to region, with each area adding its local flavour to the festivities. In the Taratarini Temple area, the festival coincides with the Chaitra Yatra, drawing large crowds of devotees. In Northern Odisha, the Chadak Parva is a significant part of the Pana Sankranti celebrations. The Meru Yatra festival in Southern Odisha marks the end of the month-long Danda Nata dance festival, coinciding with Pana Sankranti. These regional variations highlight the diversity within Odisha’s cultural landscape and demonstrate how a single festival can take on different forms while maintaining its core significance.

As with many traditional festivals, the celebration of Pana Sankranti has evolved, adapting to changing social structures and urban lifestyles. In cities, community halls often become the focal point of celebrations, where Odia families gather to observe the festival. This adaptation allows urban dwellers to maintain cultural connections even in modern settings. The preparation and sharing of Pana remain central to the festival, but the recipe might vary from household to household, with some incorporating modern ingredients or adapting the drink to suit contemporary tastes. However, the spirit of sharing and community bonding remains intact.

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Pana Sankranti plays a significant role in preserving and promoting Odia culture. The festival serves as a platform for showcasing traditional art forms, music, and dance, helping to pass these cultural treasures on to younger generations. The Danda Nacha, for instance, not only entertains but also educates people about ancient rituals and beliefs. Economically, the festival boosts local businesses. The demand for traditional foods, new clothes, and items used in rituals increased during this time, benefiting local traders and artisans. Additionally, the influx of visitors to temples and pilgrimage sites during Pana Sankranti contributes to the local tourism industry.

In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the environmental impact of festivals. While Pana Sankranti is generally an eco-friendly celebration, with its focus on natural ingredients and traditional practices, efforts are being made to make it even more sustainable. For instance, some communities are promoting the use of biodegradable materials for decorations and encouraging the responsible disposal of waste generated during the festivities. The tradition of offering water to the Tulsi plant and the symbolic representation of rain through the Pana-filled earthen pot also serve as reminders of the importance of water conservation, especially relevant as the festival marks the beginning of summer.

Pana Sankranti stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Odisha, blending spiritual devotion, communal harmony, and joyous celebration. This festival, with its deep-rooted traditions and evolving practices, continues to play a vital role in the cultural and social fabric of Odia society. As a celebration of new beginnings, Pana Sankranti offers a moment for reflection, renewal, and community bonding. It serves as a bridge between the past and the present, allowing people to honour their traditions while adapting to the changing world around them.

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In an increasingly globalised world, festivals like Pana Sankranti play a crucial role in maintaining cultural distinctiveness while fostering a sense of unity and shared heritage. The enduring popularity and significance of Pana Sankranti demonstrate the power of cultural traditions to adapt and thrive, even in the face of rapid social change. As long as people continue to find meaning and joy in coming together to celebrate new beginnings, share in age-old customs, and reaffirm their cultural identity, Pana Sankranti will continue to be a vibrant and integral part of Odia life for generations to come.

In My Hands Today…

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The Greatest Nobodies of History: Minor Characters from Major Moments – Adrian Bliss

History belongs to the heroes. But to get the full story, sometimes you have to ask the side characters.

The lives of Leonardo da Vinci, Henry VIII and Queen Victoria fill bookshelves and fascinate scholars all over the world. But little attention is given to the ferret who posed for the renaissance master, the servant who oversaw the Tudor’s toilet time, or the famous horse who thrilled the miserable old monarch.

These supporting cast members have been waiting in the wings for too long, and Adrian Bliss thinks it’s high time they join their glory-hogging contemporaries in the spotlight. Fortunately, – thanks to some recently discovered ancient complaint letters, court transcripts and memoirs in bottles – now they can.

Equal parts fascinating and hilarious, the Greatest Nobodies of History is a surreal love letter to life’s forgotten heroes featuring hitherto undocumented accounts from Ancient Greece to the frontlines of the Great Emu War.

All that follows really happened, and some of it could even be true

Adulting 101: The Importance of Sleep for Young Adults

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Sleep is often one of the first sacrifices young adults make in today’s fast-paced world. With busy schedules filled with classes, work, social activities, and the constant allure of technology, many find themselves prioritising everything but rest. However, understanding the importance of sleep and establishing a good sleep schedule is crucial for overall health and well-being.

Sleep is a natural state of rest characterised by altered consciousness, reduced sensory activity, inhibition of voluntary muscles, and decreased interactions with the environment. It plays a vital role in physical health, mental well-being, and cognitive function.

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Sleep consists of several stages that cycle throughout the night. NREM or Non-Rapid Eye Movement Sleep consists of three stages. Stage 1 is the light sleep stage where one drifts in and out of sleep; it is easy to wake up during this stage. Stage 2 is the slightly deeper sleep; the heart rate slows down, and body temperature drops. Stage 3 is the deep sleep stage. This stage is crucial for physical recovery and growth.

The REM or Rapid Eye Movement Sleep stage occurs after about 90 minutes of sleep. During REM sleep, the brain is active, dreams occur, and the body experiences temporary paralysis to prevent acting out dreams. REM sleep is essential for memory consolidation and emotional processing.

A typical sleep cycle lasts about 90 minutes and includes both NREM and REM stages. Most adults require 7-9 hours of sleep per night to complete several cycles effectively. Understanding this cycle can help young adults appreciate the importance of uninterrupted sleep.

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A good sleep schedule is very important for physical and mental health as good academic performance, social interactions, and long-term health risks.

Adequate sleep is essential for maintaining physical health. Sleep plays a critical role in immune system function. Lack of sleep can weaken the immune response, making individuals more susceptible to illness. During deep sleep, the body releases growth hormones that aid in tissue growth and muscle repair. Poor sleep can disrupt hormones that regulate appetite, leading to weight gain and obesity.

Sleep has a profound impact on mental well-being. Insufficient sleep can lead to irritability, mood swings, anxiety, and depression. Sleep is vital for cognitive processes such as attention, memory consolidation, problem-solving skills, and decision-making abilities.

For students, good sleep is directly linked to academic success. Adequate rest enhances focus and concentration in class or while studying. Sleep helps consolidate memories learned during the day, making it easier to recall information during exams.

Sleep deprivation can affect social skills. Lack of sleep can lead to increased stress levels and irritability, which may strain relationships with peers and family members. Feeling tired can reduce motivation to engage in social activities or maintain friendships.

Chronic sleep deprivation has been linked to various long-term health issues. Inadequate sleep increases the risk of heart disease and hypertension. Poor sleep patterns are associated with insulin resistance and increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Long-term lack of quality sleep can contribute to serious mental health conditions such as anxiety disorders or depression.

Many young adults believe that sacrificing sleep for productivity or social activities is a sign of strength or ambition. However, this mindset can be detrimental. Society often glorifies busyness and productivity at the expense of self-care. It’s essential to challenge this narrative by recognizing that rest is not a weakness but a necessity for optimal performance.

Understanding the science behind why we need sleep can help shift perspectives. Quality rest improves cognitive function, creativity, and problem-solving skills—key attributes for success in both academic and professional settings. Well-rested individuals are better equipped to handle stressors and challenges effectively.

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Tips for Establishing a Healthy Sleep Schedule

Creating a consistent sleep schedule is crucial for reaping the benefits of restorative rest. Here are some tips for young adults looking to improve their sleeping habits:

  • Set a consistent sleep schedule: Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day—even on weekends—to regulate the body’s internal clock.
  • Create a relaxing bedtime routine: Establish calming pre-sleep rituals such as reading a book, practising relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation, or taking a warm bath to create the best way to start a sleep schedule.
  • Limit screen time before bed: Avoid screens like phones, computers, and TVs at least an hour before bedtime, as blue light interferes with melatonin production—a hormone that regulates sleep.
  • Optimise the sleep environment: Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows that support restful sleep. Use blackout curtains to keep the room dark; consider earplugs or white noise machines if noise disrupts your rest.
  • Be mindful of food and drink intake: Limit caffeine consumption after mid-afternoon, as it can interfere with the ability to fall asleep. If hungry before bed, opt for light snacks rather than heavy meals that may cause discomfort during the night.
  • Incorporate physical activity: Engage in physical activity during the day; however, avoid vigorous exercise close to bedtime as it may energise instead of helping to wind down.
  • Manage stress levels: Incorporate mindfulness practices like yoga or meditation into the daily routine to help manage stress effectively.
  • Seek professional help if needed: If one continues to experience difficulties with sleeping despite implementing these strategies, seek guidance from a doctor or specialist who can provide insights into potential underlying issues affecting the ability to rest well.
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Understanding the importance of quality sleep is essential for young adults navigating their academic pursuits or early careers; prioritising healthy sleeping habits leads to improved physical health but also enhanced mental clarity & emotional resilience! By establishing consistent routines while creating optimal environments conducive towards restful slumber, young individuals will find themselves better equipped both personally & professionally!

Remember—it’s not merely about getting enough hours in bed; it’s about ensuring those hours are restorative! By embracing these tips & strategies, young adults who are embarking on their journey towards better sleeping patterns, their future self will thank them! Prioritise rest today so that one can thrive tomorrow!