Tag Archives: India

In My Hands Today…

Posted on by
Reply

Shattered Lands: Five Partitions and the Making of Modern Asia – Sam Dalrymple

A history of modern South Asia told through five partitions that reshaped it.

As recently as 1928, a vast swathe of Asia – India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Burma, Nepal, Bhutan, Yemen, Oman, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait – were bound together under a single imperial banner, an entity known officially as the ‘Indian Empire’, or more simply as the Raj.

It was the British Empire’s crown jewel, a vast dominion stretching from the Red Sea to the jungles of Southeast Asia, home to a quarter of the world’s population and encompassing the largest Hindu, Muslim, Sikh and Zoroastrian communities on the planet. Its people used the Indian rupee, were issued passports stamped ‘Indian Empire’, and were guarded by armies garrisoned in forts from the Bab el-Mandeb to the Himalayas

And then, in the space of just fifty years, the Indian Empire shattered. Five partitions tore it apart, carving out new nations, redrawing maps, and leaving behind a legacy of war, exile and division.

Shattered Lands, for the first time, presents the whole story of how the Indian Empire was unmade. How a single, sprawling dominion became twelve modern nations. How maps were redrawn in boardrooms and on battlefields, by politicians in London and revolutionaries in Delhi, by kings in remote palaces and soldiers in trenches.

Its legacies include civil war in Burma and ongoing insurgencies in Kashmir, Baluchistan and Northeast India, and the Rohingya genocide. It is a history of ambition and betrayal, of forgotten wars and unlikely alliances, of borders carved with ink and fire. And, above all, it is the story of how the map of modern Asia was made.

Sam Dalrymple’s stunning history is based on deep archival research, previously untranslated private memoirs, and interviews in English, Hindi, Urdu, Bengali, Punjabi, Konyak, Arabic and Burmese. From portraits of the key political players to accounts of those swept up in these wars and mass migrations, Shattered Lands is vivid, compelling, thought-provoking history at its best.

Sacred Stones, Spaces, and Stories: Jyotirlingas Part 10 – Vaidyanath Temple

Posted on by
Reply
Source

Located in the tranquil town of Deoghar in Jharkhand, the Vaidyanath Temple, also known as Baba Baidyanath Dham, stands as one of the twelve revered Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, signifying the Lord of Physicians, who heals all ailments through divine grace. This sacred shrine is a powerful symbol of faith, healing, and redemption, revered by devout Hindus across India and beyond. Situated amidst the serene landscapes of eastern India, Vaidyanath Temple has long been a beacon of spiritual power, pilgrimage, and cultural heritage, drawing millions who seek divine blessings for health and salvation.

The mythology of Vaidyanath Temple is rich with cosmic drama, devotion, and divine intervention. A central legend tells of Ravana, the mighty demon king of Lanka and ardent devotee of Shiva, who sought to bring Shiva’s presence to his kingdom. After intense penance on Mount Kailash, Shiva granted Ravana the Atmalinga, a powerful self-manifested lingam, granting immense spiritual energy. Shiva warned Ravana that the lingam must not touch the ground until it reached Lanka, lest it remain fixed forever.

As Ravana travelled with the Atmalinga, the gods feared his growing power and enlisted Lord Vishnu’s help, who disguised himself as a shepherd boy named Baiju. Vishnu tricked Ravana into giving him the lingam, which he promptly set down at Deoghar, where it became firmly rooted. When Ravana tried to reclaim it, the lingam broke, and in frustration, he pressed his thumb upon it, leaving a mark visible to this day on the lingam’s surface. After Ravana’s penance and efforts, Shiva appeared at this site to heal his injuries, earning the title “Vaidyanath or the Lord of Physicians. This emphasises Shiva’s role not only as a destroyer but as a benevolent healer who cures ailments; both physical and spiritual.

Source

Vaidyanath is also celebrated as a shaktipeetha, where the heart of Goddess Sati is believed to have fallen after Lord Vishnu’s Sudarshan Chakra dismembered her body to pacify Shiva’s grief and cosmic fury. The nearby Jai Durga Temple enshrines this divine feminine power, reinforcing the temple complex’s sacredness and its emblematic union of Shiva and Shakti.

Vaidyanath Temple’s history is woven into the spiritual and cultural fabric of eastern India. Historical records trace the temple’s origins back to the Gupta period in the 8th century AD, highlighted by inscriptions during the rule of Emperor Adityasena Gupta which affirm the sanctity and royal patronage of the shrine. The temple complex, comprising the main temple and 21 surrounding shrines, reflects medieval Indian architectural sensibilities with evident Mughal and Hindu stylistic influences. Raja Bijay Sen, a ruler from the Lohara dynasty, is credited with constructing the current prominent temple structure in the 16th century, combining devotional purpose with grand aesthetics.

Subsequent rulers, including the Palas, Senas, Mauryas, and others, contributed to its upkeep and embellishment. The British colonial era saw the temple maintain its religious importance despite political upheavals, under the care of local trust bodies.

Source

The Vaidyanath Temple is renowned for its architectural grace, blending spiritual symbolism with artistic finesse. The temple stands approximately 72 feet tall with a large shikhara or spire that invokes the symbolic lotus, a motif reflecting purity and spiritual awakening. The main temple houses the lingam in a sanctum sanctorum approachable by devotees through spacious courtyards enclosed by high white stone walls. The complex includes an array of 21 smaller shrines dedicated to various deities, enhancing its spiritual ecosystem. Intricate carvings and frescoes adorn the inner and outer walls, displaying scenes from Shiva’s legends, abstract floral motifs, and geometric designs inspired by medieval Mughal and Hindu architectural styles. The temple’s golden vessels atop the shikhara, donated by various patrons, glisten under sunlight, symbolising prosperity and devotion. Devotees often notice the distinctive thumbprint on the lingam, marking Ravana’s historical bond with the temple.

The temple’s spiritual rhythm is a blend of age-old rituals and dynamic pilgrim activity. The ritual bathing of the lingam with milk, water from holy rivers, ghee, honey, and sandalwood paste is performed multiple times daily, accompanied by chants and hymns. Sacred lamps, conches, and devotional songs fill the temple atmosphere morning and evening. Devotees present fruits, flowers, bilva leaves, and coconuts, seeking health, prosperity, and spiritual welfare. Maha Shivaratri is celebrated in a grand way at the temple with night-long vigils, chants, processions, and masses, drawing vast crowds regionally and nationally. The Shravan month heralds fervent fasting and increased devotion to mark this auspicious lunar month. The temple observes Kartik Purnima and other major Hindu festivals with fervour. Local priests and families maintain a continuous tradition of active worship and pilgrim support, blending spiritual guidance with social welfare.

Pilgrimage to Vaidyanath is an immersive encounter with faith and nature. Deoghar town is well connected by road and rail, with nearest airports at Ranchi and Patna. Pilgrims often combine their visit with eastern India’s wider spiritual routes, including other Jyotirlingas and neighbouring shaktipeeths. Dharmashalas, hostels, and restaurants warmly welcome pilgrims, offering simple vegetarian foods and spiritual camaraderie. The temple’s atmosphere is enriched by surrounding greenery, gardens, and quiet spaces for meditation. Many pilgrims narrate personal stories of healing, familial blessings, and purification, attributing these blessings to the temple’s special healing power and divine energy.

Source

Vaidyanath’s influence permeates eastern Indian religious culture, arts, and communal life. Traced in Puranic texts and local folklore, the temple inspires bhakti poetry, devotional songs, and annual storytelling performances. Folk dramas and music performances during festivals narrate the story of Ravana’s penance and Shiva’s grace. Temple motifs influence local arts and crafts, including stone carving, textile weaving, and devotional iconography. The shrine serves as a cultural and spiritual anchor for Deoghar and the surrounding regions, uniting diverse communities through shared rituals and festivals.

Today, Vaidyanath Temple is a living centre of faith, tourism, and heritage preservation. The temple is administered by local trusts, ensuring the smooth conduct of worship, pilgrim services, and conservation efforts. Safety, sanitation, and infrastructure have been significantly upgraded to accommodate growing pilgrim numbers. Millions of pilgrims visit annually, especially during Maha Shivaratri and Shravan, bolstering the local economy and cultural visibility. Eco-tourism and heritage preservation efforts balance the influx with environmental concerns. Ongoing restoration works maintain the temple’s structural integrity and the vibrancy of its art and iconography.

Vaidyanath Temple in Deoghar stands as a luminous symbol of Shiva’s healing and compassionate power. The temple’s deep mythological roots, rich historical tapestry, and intricate architecture embody a sacred trust passed down through the ages. For countless pilgrims and devotees, Vaidyanath offers hope, health, and salvation, securing its place at the core of India’s spiritual geography. It remains a vital beacon within the Jyotirlinga circuit and a testament to the enduring bond between faith and healing.

In My Hands Today…

Posted on by
Reply

India, Bharat and Pakistan: The Constitutional Journey of a Sandwiched Civilisation – J. Sai Deepak

India, Bharat and Pakistan, the second book of the Bharat Trilogy, takes the discussion forward from its bestselling predecessor, India, That Is Bharat. It explores the combined influence of European and Middle Eastern colonialities on Bharat as the successor state to the Indic civilisation, and on the origins of the Indian Constitution. To this end, the book traces the thought continuum of Middle Eastern coloniality, from the rise of Islamic Revivalism in the 1740s following the decline of the Mughal Empire, which presaged the idea of Pakistan, until the end of the Khilafat Movement in 1925, which cemented the road to Pakistan. The book also describes the collaboration of convenience that was forged between the proponents of Middle Eastern coloniality and the British colonial establishment to the detriment of the Indic civilisation.

One of the objectives of this book is to help the reader draw parallels between the challenges faced by the Indic civilisation in the tumultuous period from 1740 to 1925, and the present-day. Its larger goal remains the same as that of the first, which is to enthuse Bharatiyas to undertake a critical decolonial study of Bharat’s history, especially in the context of the Constitution, so that the religiosity towards the document is moderated by a sense of proportion, perspective and purpose.

Sacred Stones, Spaces, and Stories: Jyotirlingas Part 9 – Trimbakeshwar Temple

Posted on by
Reply
Source

Located in the holy town of Trimbak, near Nashik, the Trimbakeshwar Temple in Maharashtra is one of the twelve revered Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Unlike others, this temple’s lingam uniquely features three faces, embodying the Hindu Trinity: Brahma, the Creator; Vishnu, the Preserver; and Shiva, the Destroyer, symbolising the cyclical nature of existence and cosmic balance. Situated near the sacred Brahmagiri hills, the temple also marks the origin point of the sacred Godavari River, India’s second-longest river and a vital lifeline for millions. The Trimbakeshwar Temple combines architectural grandeur, profound mythology, and spiritual potency, drawing devotees not only seeking moksha but also healing and liberation from ancestral sins.

Trimbakeshwar Temple’s mythology is closely intertwined with cosmic balance, penance, and divine grace. According to the Shiva Purana and other scriptures, a celestial dispute arose between Brahma and Vishnu over supremacy. Shiva intervened by appearing as an infinite pillar, or linga of light, challenging them to find its beginning or end. Brahma, taking the form of a swan, lied that he had found the top, while Vishnu, as a boar, admitted defeat in searching below. Enraged, Shiva severed Brahma’s fifth head and decreed he would never be worshipped widely. Shiva then manifested as the three-faced Jyotirlinga here at Trimbak, symbolising the unity of creator, preserver, and destroyer, an eternal trinity in a single form, embodying the cosmos itself.

The epic Padma Purana recounts the story of Sage Gautama and his wife, Ahalya, living near the Brahmagiri range. To absolve Gautama’s sin of accidentally killing a cow, Shiva granted him a boon by releasing the heavenly Ganga at Brahmagiri, which took the earth form as the Godavari River, a life-giving force to the region. Devotees believe the water from Godavari holds the purifying power of Ganga itself.

Source

Trimbakeshwar uniquely hosts several rare and potent rituals like Narayan Nagbali and Kalsarpa Shanti, designed to remove curses and ancestral afflictions. The temple is thus not only a place of worship but also a cultural hub for spiritual healing, fostering communal and familial renewal.

Trimbakeshwar Temple’s origins trace back several centuries, combining mythic legacy with documented history. Though mythology situates the Jyotirlinga here since cosmic times, the earliest structural evidence dates from the medieval period, potentially around the 2nd millennium CE, with successive rulers enhancing the temple. The present structure was mainly built by Balaji Baji Rao, aka Nana Saheb Peshwa, between 1755 and 1786 CE. Using black basalt stone typical of the Hemadpanthi architectural style, Nana Saheb rebuilt the temple in grand form, inscribing his legacy on one of Maharashtra’s holiest sites.

During the British era, an unfortunate theft led to the disappearance of the famous Nassak diamond that once adorned the lingam’s crown. The diamond’s history intertwines with colonial conquest and Indian royal heritage but remains a subject of fascination.

Trimbakeshwar Temple is a classical example of Hemadpanthi architecture, characterised by its simplicity, robustness, and refined stone craftsmanship. The temple structure is primarily basalt stone, durable against time and monsoon. The sanctum houses the three-faced Jyotirlinga with faces toward east (Brahma), north (Vishnu), and south (Shiva). Multiple mandapas (pillared halls) and prakara (boundary walls) enable the flow of devotees and rituals. The temple features intricate carvings on pillars and ceilings depicting scenes from Shiva’s legends and Hindu cosmology. A large number of smaller shrines within the compound honour related deities like Ganesha, Kartikeya, and Annapurna. Located near the Brahmagiri hills, the source of the Godavari River, the temple’s environment reflects sanctity and serenity, with the surrounding landscape playing a pivotal role in the temple’s spiritual ambiance.

Source

Trimbakeshwar’s rituals are known for their depth and spiritual efficacy. The core ritual includes bathing the lingam with water, milk, honey, and other sanctified items, accompanied by Vedic chanting. Morning and evening lamp ceremonies infuse the temple with devotion and energy. Devotees bring bilva leaves, coconuts, sweets, and sacred threads for blessings and ancestral peace.

The Narayan Nagbali and Kalsarpa Shanti are special puja and rituals that address lingering curses and financial or familial troubles. The Tripindi Shraddha honours ancestors to ensure their peace. Local priests and family lineage priests guide these elaborate ceremonies. Mahashivaratri is celebrated with mass pilgrimages, fasting, music, and all-night prayers, while during the month of Shravan, devotees flock here especially on Mondays, considered highly auspicious for Shiva worship. Community participation is high, involving locals and pilgrims in ceremony preparation and hospitality.

Pilgrims undertaking the Trimbakeshwar yatra partake in both spiritual devotion and scenic beauty. The temple is about 30 km from Nashik; it is reachable by road, with ample transport options. Situated in a peaceful small town, the temple is accessible year-round, augmented by nearby spiritual sites and nature spots. Temples, dharamshalas, restaurants, and shops cater to pilgrims, creating a friendly and supportive atmosphere. The nearby Brahmagiri hills, with their natural springs and forests, enhance the pilgrimage’s contemplative quality. Many pilgrims report a palpable blend of serenity, inspiration, and sacred presence while visiting, especially near the Godavari’s source.

Trimbakeshwar resonates deeply in Maharashtra’s religious, literary, and cultural traditions. Manifested in Marathi and Sanskrit devotional songs praising Shiva and the Godavari. Local folklore integrates the temple’s legends into wider narratives. Festivals see congregations performing folk dances, bhajan singing, and dramatic retellings of Shiva’s feats. Local artisans produce temple souvenirs, sacred icons, and embroidered textiles inspired by temple motifs. The temple’s triadic symbolism influences Maharashtra’s religious art. The temple anchors Nashik district’s cultural life and spiritual identity, strengthening bonds across communities and generations.

Sourc

Trimbakeshwar remains a living spiritual centre adapting to contemporary demands. The temple trust manages daily worship, festivals, upkeep, and visitor services. Digital registrations and pilgrimage facilitation enhance accessibility. Over the years, tourism and pilgrimage growth have been steadily rising with massive foot traffic, especially during auspicious periods. There have been attempts to integrate pilgrimage with ecotourism in the surrounding hill areas as well as the conservation of local heritage sites in the temple vicinity.

The Trimbakeshwar Temple stands as a unique confluence of divine triune power, mythic rivers, and architecture resonating through time. As an enduring beacon of the Jyotirlinga tradition and the source of the Godavari, it offers devotees a path to cosmic understanding and salvation. Through centuries of faith, ceremony, and story, Trimbakeshwar nurtures devotion within Maharashtra and beyond, inviting all to experience Shiva’s three-faced grace in the heart of the Sahyadri hills.

Festivals of India: Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi

Posted on by
Reply
Source

The Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi festival is a vibrant annual celebration of the Singpho tribe, primarily in Arunachal Pradesh, held in memory of their ancestral forefather, Shapawng Yawng. Also known as the Manau Poi or Dance Festival, it holds great cultural and spiritual significance for the Singpho people, bridging generations and fostering unity within the community. Celebrated between 12th and 15th February, this festival showcases the rich traditions, customs, and heritage of one of Arunachal Pradesh’s important tribal groups.

Shapawng Yawng is revered as the progenitor of the Singpho tribe, who trace their lineage back to this legendary ancestor. The festival originated as a homage to him, incorporating elements of nature, spirituality, and community bonding. The traditional Manau dance symbolically connects the Singpho people with their environment and history, deriving inspiration from the movements of birds feasting and celebrating life.

This festival is not only an expression of cultural pride but also a concerted effort to preserve the Singpho heritage in the face of modern challenges, including substance abuse among youth and cultural dilution. Its organisation and revival in the 1980s underline the community’s resilience and commitment to passing their legacy intact to future generations.

Source

The rituals and attire of the Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi festival carry deep symbolic meanings that reflect the Singpho tribe’s cultural values, spiritual beliefs, and connection to nature. The festival’s key ritual centres around the sacred “Shadung,” tall, multicoloured wooden poles that represent male and female energies, symbolising the creation of life and the cosmic balance between these forces. Dancing around the Shadung during the Manau dance embodies unity, harmony, and the intimate relationship between the community and the environment, inspired by the movements of birds that signify life and prosperity.

The traditional attire worn during the festival further expresses cultural identity and heritage. Men wear patterned lungis, turbans, and shirts symbolising strength and valour, while women don colourful Choi or Pipa tops and Singket skirts adorned with intricate jewellery, representing beauty, fertility, and continuity of family lineage. The vibrant colours and designs in the costumes celebrate joy, abundance, and the community’s unique craftsmanship, while also signifying social status and respect for tradition.

Rhythmic beats from traditional drums called ‘Gongs’ and ‘Thongs’ set the tempo for dancers, who move in unison to express unity, strength, and the community’s collective spirit. More broadly, the rhythmic drumming and coordinated dance movements function as ritualistic expressions that reinforce social cohesion, collective identity, and the transmission of ancestral wisdom. The festival’s symbols and attire thus serve as visual and performative vessels carrying centuries of Singpho history, beliefs, and values, fostering pride and cultural continuity amid changing times. Alongside dance performances, there are exhibitions of local handlooms, handicrafts, folk songs, and fashion shows, providing a comprehensive view of Singpho artistry and lifestyle.

Source

The festival acts as a social adhesive, fostering communication, cohesion, and mutual understanding among different segments of the Singpho and wider communities. It strengthens social bonds and reinforces a sense of identity and belonging. The economic benefits through tourism and the promotion of indigenous crafts and cuisine further empower the community and help integrate the Singphos into the larger cultural mosaic of India.

Primarily celebrated in the Changlang and Namsai districts of Arunachal Pradesh, the festival rotates its main venue, often held at Bordumsa. It has grown in visibility and participation each year, drawing visitors and dignitaries keen to experience this unique cultural exposition.

As a vibrant cultural festival, Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi continues to educate youth, promote cultural pride, and showcase the Singphos’ rich traditions on national and international stages. The festival embodies the dynamism of tribal culture, adapting while retaining its roots, making it both a heritage celebration and a progressive social movement.