Tag Archives: India

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.

Festivals of India: Cheti Chand

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Celebrated primarily by the Sindhi community, Cheti Chand marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year and commemorates the birth of their revered patron saint, Lord Jhulelal. This festival, which falls on the second day of the month of Chet in the Sindhi lunar calendar, corresponding to March and April in the Gregorian calendar, holds immense cultural and religious significance. It is a time for renewal, reflection, and celebration among Sindhis worldwide.

The roots of Cheti Chand can be traced back to the Sindhi community’s struggle against oppression during the rule of Mirkhshah, a tyrannical Muslim ruler. According to legend, Mirkhshah sought to convert the Sindhi Hindus to Islam, threatening their cultural and religious identity. In desperation, the Sindhi people prayed to Varun Devta, the Water God for deliverance. Their prayers led to a divine promise that a saviour would be born to protect them.

This saviour was Uderolal, later known as Jhulelal, who was born in Nasarpur in 1007 CE. His miraculous birth was heralded by a divine voice that assured the Sindhis of their protection. Jhulelal is believed to have performed numerous miracles that not only saved his people from persecution but also reinforced their faith and cultural identity. The festival of Cheti Chand thus symbolises hope, resilience, and divine intervention.

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Jhulelal is often depicted as an old man with a long beard, seated on a lotus flower supported by a fish. He embodies wisdom and strength and is regarded as the protector of Sindhi culture and values. Celebrating Cheti Chand serves as a reaffirmation of faith for Sindhis, honouring their heritage while fostering a sense of unity within the community.

Cheti Chand holds deep spiritual significance for the Sindhi community. The festival marks the start of the Hindu New Year for Sindhis, symbolizing fresh starts and new opportunities. It reinforces the cultural identity of Sindhis, especially those who migrated after the Partition in 1947. Cheti Chand serves as a reminder of their roots and traditions. The festival fosters communal harmony as families come together to celebrate with rituals, prayers, and festive meals. And it is an occasion for introspection and gratitude towards Lord Jhulelal for his protection and blessings.

Cheti Chand is celebrated with enthusiasm across various regions in India, each with its own unique customs and traditions. In states like Punjab and Haryana, Cheti Chand is observed with fervour among local Sindhi communities. Families come together to perform rituals at home or in temples dedicated to Jhulelal and devotees prepare offerings such as fruits, sweets, and special dishes like Guji Deg, a sweet dish made from rice flour to honour Jhulelal.

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In Maharashtra, celebrations during Cheti Chand include traditional folk dances performed in honour of Lord Jhulelal. Participants often dress in colourful attire and engage in lively music. The Behrana Sahib Ceremony involves preparing a ceremonial plate containing items like an oil lamp or diya, sugar crystals or misri, fruits, and flowers which are taken to nearby rivers or lakes as offerings. In states like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, devotees visit rivers or lakes to perform rituals, reflecting their gratitude towards Varun Devta. Leading up to Cheti Chand, many observe a period of prayer known as Chaliho for 40 days. In West Bengal, families prepare special dishes for communal feasts after performing rituals and local communities organise events that include singing devotional songs dedicated to Jhulelal.

Cheti Chand is characterised by several unique rituals that reflect its cultural significance. A central ritual involves lighting an earthen wheat lamp known as Jyot Jagan on a bronze plate filled with rice grains. This lamp typically has five wicks symbolising enlightenment and prosperity. The lighting marks the beginning of the festivities. The Behrana Sahib consists of symbolic items such as an oil lamp, crystal sugar, and fruits. These items are taken to water bodies where they are immersed as an offering to Lord Jhulelal.

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One of the most vibrant aspects of Cheti Chand celebrations is the Chhej dance, where participants form circles while clapping in rhythm with traditional drums, or dhols, and wind instruments, or shehnais. This dance embodies communal joy and unity among devotees.

On this day, devotees prepare an offering called Akho—made from rice mixed with flour and milk—which symbolises gratitude towards Varun Devta.

The festival is rich with stories that highlight its significance. The tale of how Jhulelal emerged during a time of crisis for the Sindhi people serves as a reminder of hope amidst adversity. The miraculous circumstances surrounding Jhulelal’s birth reflect divine intervention in protecting his devotees. The narrative emphasises how faith can triumph over tyranny, reinforcing the importance of cultural identity among Sindhis.

Cheti Chand transcends geographical boundaries; it is celebrated by Sindhi communities around the globe. In Pakistan’s Sindh province, where many original traditions have been preserved, local temples host elaborate celebrations while community feasts are organised with families gathering to celebrate their heritage. The Sindhi diaspora communities in North America celebrate Cheti Chand through cultural events showcasing traditional music and dance, and community gatherings where prayers are offered collectively. In the United Kingdom, in cities with significant Sindhi populations, temples organise special prayers and community members participate in cultural programs highlighting Sindhi traditions.

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Cheti Chand stands as a beacon of hope, resilience, and cultural pride for the Sindhi community worldwide. As they commemorate the birth of Lord Jhulelal on this auspicious day, they reaffirm their faith while celebrating their rich heritage through vibrant rituals, communal gatherings, and heartfelt prayers. The festival not only marks the beginning of a new year but also reinforces the values that bind them together as a community—unity, devotion, and an unwavering spirit in preserving their identity against challenges throughout history. Through its unique customs and stories that resonate deeply within their cultural memory, Cheti Chand invites everyone to partake in its love, light, and legacy—a celebration that transcends time and space while nurturing communal bonds across generations.

In My Hands Today…

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Mahabharata Unravelled: Lesser-Known Facets of a Well-Known History – Ami Ganatra

Millennia have passed since the dharma yudhha of the cousins shook the land of Bharata. But this history of our ancestors continues to fascinate us. Even today, we have passionate discussions about the people and their actions in the epic, fervidly defending our favourites and denouncing others. The number of works on the Mahabharata-adaptations, retellings and fiction-that still get written is a testimony to its enduring relevance.

While the general storyline is largely known, a lot of questions and myths prevail, such as-What was the geographical extent of the war? Did Drona actually refuse to take on Karna as his disciple? What were Draupadi’s responsibilities as the queen of Indraprastha? Did she ever mock Duryodhana? Were the women in the time of the Mahabharata meek and submissive? What were the names of the war formations during the time? What role did the sons of the Pandavas play? Does the south of India feature at all in the Mahabharata? What happened after the war? These and many other intriguing questions continue to mystify the contemporary reader.

Author Ami Ganatra debunks myths, quashes popular notions and offers insights into such aspects not commonly known or erroneously known, based solely on facts as narrated in Vyasa’s Mahabharata from generally accepted authentic sources. For a history of such prominence and influence as the Mahabharata, it is important to get the story right. So pick this book up, sit back and unveil the lesser-known facts and truths about the great epic.

Festivals of India: Mahashivaratri

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Often referred to as “The Great Night of Shiva,” Maha Shivaratri is one of the most significant festivals in Hinduism, dedicated to Lord Shiva, the deity symbolising creation, preservation, and destruction. This festival is celebrated annually on the 14th night of the dark fortnight in the month of Phalguna, which comes in February or March, marking a time for spiritual reflection, devotion, and celebration. The festival’s origins are steeped in rich mythology and tradition, and its observance varies widely across different regions of India and among Hindu communities worldwide.

The origins of Maha Shivaratri are deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. Several legends recount the significance of this festival. One prominent legend states that Maha Shivaratri commemorates the night when Lord Shiva performed the ‘Tandava’, a cosmic dance symbolising creation, preservation, and destruction. This dance is believed to represent the rhythm of the universe and is a vital aspect of Shiva’s divine nature. Another significant narrative is that Maha Shivaratri marks the wedding night of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Their union symbolises the balance between masculine and feminine energies, representing harmony in the cosmos. This aspect makes Maha Shivaratri particularly special for married couples who seek blessings for their relationships. According to another legend, it was on this night that Shiva manifested himself in the form of a Lingam, a representation of his divine presence. This event signifies his infinite existence and connection to creation.

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Maha Shivaratri has been celebrated for centuries, with its roots tracing back to ancient Hindu civilisation. The festival reflects a broader cultural significance beyond mere religious observance; it encapsulates themes of transformation, renewal, and spiritual awakening that resonate across various aspects of life.

Maha Shivaratri holds profound spiritual importance for devotees. The festival is seen as an opportunity for spiritual growth and introspection. Devotees believe that observing rituals during this time can lead to purification of the mind and soul, helping them overcome obstacles in life. Fasting and prayer during Maha Shivaratri are believed to cleanse devotees’ hearts and minds. Many observe strict fasts, consuming only water or milk throughout the day before breaking their fast at dawn on the following day. The festival fosters a sense of community among participants as they come together for prayers, chanting, and singing devotional songs or bhajans. It serves as a reminder of shared beliefs and collective spirituality.

The festival is celebrated with great fervor across India, with regional variations reflecting local customs and traditions. In northern states like Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, devotees flock to temples such as Kashi Vishwanath in Varanasi and Kedarnath to participate in elaborate rituals. The night is marked by all-night vigils where devotees chant “Om Namah Shivaya” while offering milk, honey, and bel leaves to Shiva Lingams. In South India, particularly among Brahmin communities, rituals begin early in the morning with special prayers or pujas at temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees often perform Rudra Abhishek, bathing Shiva Lingams with sacred substances like milk and honey. The night is spent in meditation, bhajans, and discussions about Shiva’s teachings.

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In Maharashtra, celebrations often include processions featuring traditional music and dance. Temples are beautifully decorated, attracting large crowds who engage in communal prayers. In West Bengal and Odisha, Maha Shivaratri is celebrated with unique cultural performances such as folk dances that narrate stories from Shiva’s life. Devotees also prepare special dishes as offerings during this time.

Maha Shivaratri transcends geographical boundaries. In countries with significant Hindu populations such as Nepal, Mauritius, Fiji, and Trinidad & Tobago, festivities take place with similar fervor. In Nepal’s Pashupatinath Temple—one of the holiest sites for Hindus—thousands gather to participate in rituals throughout the night. Indo-Caribbean communities also observe this festival with solemnity in over 400 temples worldwide.

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The rituals performed during Maha Shivaratri are diverse yet share common elements. Devotees typically fast throughout the day leading up to the night celebrations. Some consume only water or milk while others may choose to abstain from food altogether. Rituals involve offerings made to Shiva Lingams consisting of milk, honey, ghee (clarified butter), fruits, flowers, and bel leaves—considered sacred to Lord Shiva. The chanting of mantras such as “Om Namah Shivaya” plays a central role during worship sessions both at home and in temples. Many devotees stay awake throughout the night engaging in prayers, singing bhajans or participating in discourses about Lord Shiva’s teachings. In various regions, cultural performances including dance dramas depicting stories from Shiva’s life add vibrancy to the celebrations.

Several myths enhance the richness of Maha Shivaratri’s narrative. One myth recounts how Lord Shiva vanquished Tripurasura—the demon representing ignorance—on this auspicious night. This victory symbolises triumph over darkness and ignorance. Another popular tale involves Markandeya—a devotee who was destined to die young but was saved by Lord Shiva when he embraced him as a child amidst death’s approach. Legends often highlight Lord Shiva’s compassion towards his devotees; many stories illustrate how he intervenes to protect those who sincerely seek his blessings during Maha Shivaratri.

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Maha Shivaratri stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of Hindu culture—a celebration that encompasses devotion, spirituality, community bonding, and deep-rooted traditions. As devotees across India and around the world honour Lord Shiva through fasting, prayer, cultural performances, and communal gatherings on this auspicious night, they not only pay homage to their deity but also embrace themes that resonate universally—transformation, renewal, love, and spiritual awakening. The festival serves not just as a religious observance but also as an opportunity for individuals to reflect on their lives while seeking blessings for personal growth and harmony within their families and communities. Through its myriad forms of celebration—from temple rituals to vibrant cultural expressions—Maha Shivaratri continues to inspire millions each year with its profound significance rooted in ancient mythology yet relevant in contemporary society.

In My Hands Today…

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Savarkar: Echoes from a Forgotten Past, 1883–1924 – Vikram Sampath

As the intellectual fountainhead of the ideology of Hindutva, which is in political ascendancy in India today, Vinayak Damodar Savarkar is undoubtedly one of the most contentious political thinkers and leaders of the twentieth century. Accounts of his eventful and stormy life have oscillated from eulogizing hagiographies to disparaging demonization. The truth, as always, lies somewhere in between and has unfortunately never been brought to light. Savarkar and his ideology stood as one of the strongest and most virulent opponents of Gandhi, his pacifist philosophy and the Indian National Congress.

An alleged atheist and a staunch rationalist who opposed orthodox Hindu beliefs, encouraged inter-caste marriage and dining, and dismissed cow worship as mere superstition, Savarkar was, arguably, the most vocal political voice for the Hindu community through the entire course of India’s freedom struggle. From the heady days of revolution and generating international support for the cause of India’s freedom as a law student in London, Savarkar found himself arrested, unfairly tried for sedition, transported and incarcerated at the Cellular Jail, in the Andamans, for over a decade, where he underwent unimaginable torture.

From being an optimistic advocate of Hindu-Muslim unity in his treatise on the 1857 War of Independence, what was it that transformed him in the Cellular Jail to a proponent of ‘Hindutva’, which viewed Muslims with suspicion?

Drawing from a vast range of original archival documents across India and abroad, this biography in two parts-the first focusing on the years leading up to his incarceration and eventual release from the Kalapani-puts Savarkar, his life and philosophy in a new perspective and looks at the man with all his achievements and failings.