Tag Archives: India

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

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.

In My Hands Today…

Posted on by
Reply

Bombay after Ayodhya : A City in Flux – Jitendra Dixit

The demolition of the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya on 6 December 1992 was followed by riots across India. Mumbai had always been susceptible to communal violence, but the violence in December 1992 and then again in January 1993 was unprecedented. Two months later, in March, serial blasts rocked the city, killing over 250 and injuring 700. Communal strife was followed by gang wars and natural calamities, all of which changed the city forever.

Bombay after Ayodhya chronicles how the past three decades have been a period of unprecedented flux in Mumbai. In the aftermath of the riots, a split in the Mumbai underworld led to new equations in politics, which changed the demography of the city and led to the rise of new townships. After a brief lull, blasts and terrorist attacks rocked it once more in 2002, a cycle of violence that culminated in the horrific 26/11 attacks in 2008.

Jitendra Dixit grew up in Mumbai and has reported from the city for much of the three decades he writes about in this book. This is a deeply felt biography of a city, which has transformed from a city of mills to one of malls, where the number of skyscrapers has multiplied along with their height, where local trains have become longer and yet remained overcrowded. It is the city of Bollywood, yet constraints of producing films in the city have led filmmakers to move out. Its iconic festivals, such as Ganesh Utsav and Govinda, once primarily celebrated by the poor and the middle class, have become commercialized. Along with key events and people that have shaped the evolution of present-day Mumbai, Bombay after Ayodhya also documents the change in the city’s character, from its physical appearance and civic issues, to real estate and politics.

The Uniqueness of India’s Geography

Posted on by
Reply
Source

India, a country of over 1.3 billion people, is a land of incredible diversity, and its geography is no exception. From the snow-capped Himalayas to the sun-kissed beaches of the Indian Ocean, India’s geography is a testament to the country’s rich cultural and natural heritage. To celebrate India’s 77th Independence Day, here is something about this incredible diversity:

Source

The Himalayas: The Roof of the World
The world’s highest mountain range, the Himalayas, stretches across India’s northern border, covering over 2,500 kilometres. They are home to nine of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest, the highest peak on Earth. The Himalayas are not only a natural wonder but also play a crucial role in India’s climate and ecosystem. They act as a barrier, blocking the cold winds from Central Asia and keeping India’s climate relatively mild.

Source

The Indo-Gangetic Plain: The Breadbasket of India
Stretching from the Himalayas to the Deccan Plateau, the Indo-Gangetic Plain, is one of the most fertile regions in the world. This plain is home to some of India’s most populous cities, including Delhi, Kolkata, and Lucknow. The Indo-Gangetic Plain is also the breadbasket of India, with the Ganges River and its tributaries providing water for irrigation and supporting agriculture.

Source

The Deccan Plateau: A Land of Volcanic Origin
Covering 40% of India’s landmass, the Deccan Plateau is a region of volcanic origin. The plateau is triangular in shape and is characterised by its unique landscape of volcanic rocks, hills, and valleys. Located in the southern part of India, the Deccan Plateau is home to some of India’s most important cities, including Mumbai, Pune, and Hyderabad.

Source

The Eastern and Western Ghats: The Spine of India
The Eastern and Western Ghats, two mountain ranges running parallel to the Deccan Plateau, are known for their unique biodiversity and geographical features. The Ghats are home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including many endangered species. The Ghats also play a crucial role in India’s climate, with the Western Ghats being responsible for the heavy rainfall in the region.

Source

The Indian Ocean: A Vital Waterway
The Indian Ocean, which borders India to the south, is a vital waterway that connects India to the rest of the world. The Indian Ocean is home to many important ports, including Mumbai, Chennai, and Kochi. The ocean also plays a crucial role in India’s climate, with the monsoon winds bringing much-needed rainfall to the region.

Source

The Thar Desert: A Harsh but Beautiful Landscape
Covering 10% of India’s landmass, the Thar Desert, also known as the Great Indian Desert, is one of the harshest environments in the world. The desert is characterised by its extreme temperatures, limited vegetation, and scarce water resources. Despite its harsh conditions, the Thar Desert is also home to a unique and diverse range of flora and fauna.

Source

Coastlines: Long and Covering Two Seas and an Ocean
India has a long coastline that stretches over 7,500 kilometres, with the Arabian Sea to the west, the Bay of Bengal to the east, and the Indian Ocean to the south.

Source

The Islands of India: A Treasure Trove of Biodiversity
India’s islands, including the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Lakshadweep Islands, and the Diu and Daman Islands, are a treasure trove of biodiversity. These islands are home to a wide range of unique and endemic species, including the Andamanese and Nicobarese tribes. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a group of islands in the Bay of Bengal, known for their unique flora and fauna, and their strategic location near the Malacca Strait.

Source

The Rivers of India: The Lifeblood of the Nation
India’s rivers, including the Ganges, the Brahmaputra, and the Indus, are the lifeblood of the nation. These rivers provide water for irrigation, support agriculture, and are a source of hydroelectric power. The rivers also play a crucial role in India’s culture and spirituality, with many rivers being considered sacred. The Brahmaputra River is one of the longest rivers in the world, flowing through India, China, and Bangladesh, and is known for its unique geological features and biodiversity.

Source

Wetlands: Diverse Ecolands
India has several wetlands, including the Sundarbans, the Vembanad-Kol Wetland, and the Chilka Lake. These wetlands are home to a wide range of flora and fauna and play a crucial role in maintaining the country’s ecosystem. The Sundarbans is the world’s largest mangrove forest, located in the Ganges Delta, and home to the Bengal tiger and other endangered species.

Source

Roads: The Lifeline of the Country
India’s road network is the second largest in the world, spanning approximately 667 thousand kilometres. This extensive network includes national highways, state highways, district roads, and rural roads, ensuring connectivity across various regions of the country.

Source

The Climate of India: A Region of Contrasts
India’s climate is a region of contrasts, with the country experiencing a wide range of temperatures, rainfall, and weather patterns. The climate varies from the tropical south to the temperate north, with the Himalayas acting as a barrier to the cold winds from Central Asia.

Source

Geological Features
India’s geological features are diverse, with rocks from the Precambrian era to the present day. The country is home to several unique geological formations, including the Deccan Traps and the Himalayan mountain range. Mawsynram in Meghalaya is the wettest place on Earth, with an average annual rainfall of 11,873 millimetres. India has the world’s only floating post office on Dal Lake in Srinagar, which includes a philately museum.

Source

India’s geography is a unique and fascinating topic that showcases the country’s incredible diversity and natural beauty. From the snow-capped Himalayas to the sun-kissed beaches of the Indian Ocean, India’s geography is a testament to the country’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

Festivals of India: Tulsidas Jayanti

Posted on by
Reply
Source

India’s rich cultural tapestry is woven with a myriad of festivals, each one a vibrant celebration of the country’s diverse heritage, traditions, and spiritual beliefs. Tulsidas Jayanti, honouring the life and legacy of Goswami Tulsidas, a revered saint-poet whose literary masterpiece, the Ramcharitmanas, has profoundly influenced the spiritual and cultural fabric of India, is celebrated annually and in 2024 it was celebrated yesterday, August 11.

The origins of Tulsidas Jayanti can be traced back to the life and times of Goswami Tulsidas. Born in the 16th century, Tulsidas was a Ramanandi Vaishnava saint and poet whose unwavering devotion to Lord Rama inspired him to compose the epic Ramcharitmanas, a retelling of the Sanskrit Ramayana in the vernacular Awadhi language.

Tulsidas’ birth anniversary was first celebrated by his disciples and followers, who recognised the profound impact of his literary and spiritual contributions. As the years passed, the observance of Tulsidas Jayanti gained momentum, spreading across various regions of India, particularly in the northern states, where his influence was most profound.

Source

Today, Tulsidas Jayanti is celebrated annually on the Saptami or the seventh day of the Shukla Paksha or the waxing phase of the moon in the Hindu month of Shravan, which typically falls in July or August according to the Gregorian calendar.

While Tulsidas Jayanti is observed across India, it holds particular significance in the northern states, where Tulsidas’ life and works have left an indelible mark. Tulsidas’ birthplace, Rajapur, located in the Chitrakoot district of Uttar Pradesh, is a major hub for Tulsidas Jayanti celebrations. Devotees from across the state and beyond flock to this sacred town to pay homage to the saint-poet.  The state of Madhya Pradesh, particularly the cities of Chitrakoot and Orchha, where Tulsidas spent a significant part of his life, witnesses grand celebrations during Tulsidas Jayanti. Bihar, known for its rich cultural heritage and literary traditions, embraces Tulsidas Jayanti with great fervour, as Tulsidas’ works have had a profound influence on the region’s spiritual and literary landscape. Rajasthan, which has a deep-rooted devotion to Lord Rama, celebrates Tulsidas Jayanti with enthusiasm, honouring the saint-poet who brought the Ramayana to the masses through his poetic masterpiece. Beyond these states, Tulsidas Jayanti is celebrated in various parts of India, including Gujarat, Maharashtra, and other regions where Tulsidas’ teachings and literary works have found resonance.

The celebration of Tulsidas Jayanti is a joyous occasion filled with rituals and traditions that honour the life and teachings of Goswami Tulsidas. One of the most significant aspects of Tulsidas Jayanti is the recitation of Ramcharitmanas, Tulsidas’ magnum opus. Devotees gather in temples, community centres, and homes to collectively recite verses from this epic, immersing themselves in the divine narrative of Lord Rama’s life and teachings. Devotional songs, known as bhajans and kirtans, are an integral part of the Tulsidas Jayanti celebrations. These melodious compositions, often based on verses from Ramcharitmanas, are sung, filling the air with devotional melodies and praises to Lord Rama and Tulsidas. Scholars, spiritual leaders, and literary enthusiasts organise discourses and seminars to delve into the life, works, and teachings of Tulsidas. These intellectual gatherings provide a platform for discussions, debates, and the dissemination of knowledge about Tulsidas’ literary and spiritual contributions. Tulsidas Jayanti is also celebrated through various cultural performances, such as plays, dance dramas, and musical renditions. These artistic expressions bring to life the stories and teachings from Ramcharitmanas, captivating audiences and instilling a deeper appreciation for Tulsidas’ literary genius. In keeping with the spirit of Tulsidas’ teachings, many devotees engage in charitable acts and community service during the festival. This may include distributing food and essentials to the needy, organising blood donation camps, or participating in environmental conservation efforts.

Source

The life and works of Goswami Tulsidas are steeped in myths, legends, and fascinating stories that have been passed down through generations. These tales not only add to the mystique surrounding Tulsidas but also serve as a source of inspiration and guidance for devotees. One of the best-known stories about Tulsidas is his unwavering devotion to Lord Rama. It is said that Tulsidas was so devoted to Rama that he would not even utter the name of any other deity. This deep reverence for Lord Rama is believed to have been the driving force behind his literary masterpiece, Ramcharitmanas. According to legend, Tulsidas had a profound connection with Lord Hanuman, the ardent devotee of Lord Rama. It is said that Lord Hanuman himself appeared before Tulsidas and guided him on his spiritual journey, inspiring him to compose the Ramcharitmanas and spread the teachings of Lord Rama to the masses. One of the most captivating tales surrounding Tulsidas is his encounter with Lord Rama himself. It is believed that during his pilgrimage to Chitrakoot, Tulsidas had a divine vision of Lord Rama and his brother Lakshmana, which further deepened his devotion and inspired him to complete his literary masterpiece.

According to popular belief, Tulsidas was afflicted with a severe illness that left him bedridden. It is said that he was miraculously healed after reciting a verse from Ramcharitmanas, which he had composed during his illness. This legend further solidifies the belief in the divine power of Tulsidas’ literary work and his unwavering faith in Lord Rama. Another fascinating tale associated with Tulsidas is the story of his transformation from a worldly man to a devoted saint. It is said that Tulsidas initially led a worldly life, but a chance encounter with a spiritual mentor and a series of life-changing events led him to renounce the material world and dedicate his life to the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment and the service of Lord Rama.

Source

Tulsidas Jayanti is a celebration that transcends religious boundaries, resonating with people from all walks of life who seek solace in the timeless wisdom and literary brilliance of Goswami Tulsidas. As we commemorate this auspicious occasion, we are reminded of the enduring power of faith, the transformative impact of literature, and the profound influence that one individual can have on shaping the cultural and spiritual fabric of a nation.

Through the recitation of Ramcharitmanas, the singing of devotional songs, and the retelling of myths and stories, we not only honor the life and legacy of Tulsidas but also keep alive the eternal teachings of Lord Rama, which have guided generations of devotees on the path of righteousness, compassion, and spiritual enlightenment.