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Festivals of India: Varuthini Ekadasi

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Also known as Baruthani Ekadashi, Varuthini Ekadashi is a significant festival that holds deep spiritual and cultural importance. Falling on the 11th lunar day, or Ekadashi, of the waning moon in the Hindu month of Chaitra or Vaishakha, the festival typically falls in April or May of the Gregorian calendar.

The origins of Varuthini Ekadashi are rooted in ancient Hindu scriptures and mythology. The festival’s name, Varuthini, is derived from the Sanskrit word meaning armoured or protected, signifying the spiritual protection bestowed upon devotees who observe this sacred day. The day is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, particularly his fifth avatar, Vamana, and devotees believe that observing this Ekadashi is believed to bring devotees closer to the divine and offer protection from negative energies and evil influences.

The significance of this festival is highlighted in various Hindu texts, including the Bhavishya Purana, where Lord Krishna narrates its importance to King Yudhishthira. According to these scriptures, observing Varuthini Ekadashi brings numerous benefits, including protection from evil and good fortune, prosperity in this life and the next, liberation from curses and sins, and blessings equivalent to rigorous penance.

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The celebration of Varuthini Ekadashi involves a series of rituals and practices that devotees follow with great devotion. The primary observance is fasting, which is considered crucial for reaping the spiritual benefits of this day. Devotees typically observe a strict fast on Varuthini Ekadashi, abstaining from certain foods and activities. Many choose to fast completely, while others may have a single meal while grains, certain vegetables, and specific foods are avoided. The consumption of Havishyanna, or boiled food without spices, salt, and oil from the previous day, is recommended.

The day is marked by various religious and spiritual activities. Devotees wake up during Brahma Muhurta, the auspicious pre-dawn hours, and take a purifying bath. This is the time before dawn that is considered a sacred time for meditation and spiritual practices. It is also known as the creator’s hour. Brahma muhurta is a 48-minute period that begins 1 hour and 36 minutes before sunrise, with the exact timing depending on the location and the time of sunrise, though it usually occurs between 3:30 and 5:30 am. A wooden platform is set up with an image of Lord Vishnu, covered in red or yellow cloth, and offerings of Panchamrit, a mixture of milk, curd, ghee, honey, and Ganga water, are made to Lord Vishnu. Incense, lamps, and camphor are lit as offerings, and mantras dedicated to Lord Vishnu are chanted by devotees, and an aarti is performed. Many engage in meditation and spiritual contemplation throughout the day.

Performing acts of charity is considered highly auspicious on Varuthini Ekadashi. Devotees are encouraged to donate various items, with the belief that different donations yield varying levels of spiritual benefits. Donating knowledge is considered the highest form of charity. Other beneficial donations include cows, gold, food grains, sesame seeds, land, elephants, and horses.

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Several mythological stories are associated with Varuthini Ekadashi, each highlighting its spiritual significance and transformative power. One of the most prominent legends involves Lord Shiva and Lord Brahma. In a fit of rage, Lord Shiva cut off the fifth head of Lord Brahma. As a consequence, Lord Brahma cursed Lord Shiva. Seeking a remedy, Lord Vishnu advised Lord Shiva to observe the Varuthini Ekadashi fast. By following this advice, Lord Shiva was eventually released from the curse. Another tale speaks of King Mandata, who gained enlightenment through the observance of Varuthini Ekadashi. The legend of King Dhundhumara from the Ikshvaku dynasty is also associated with Varuthini Ekadashi. According to this story, the king was freed from a curse by Lord Shiva through the observance of this sacred day.

While not specific to Varuthini Ekadashi, the origin story of Ekadashi itself is worth mentioning. Lord Vishnu was in a state of deep sleep or meditation. A demon named Murdanav attempted to attack the sleeping Vishnu. A beautiful woman emerged from Vishnu’s 11th sense, the mind. Murdanav, infatuated, asked to marry her. She agreed on the condition that he defeat her in battle. During the fight, Murdanav was killed. Vishnu awoke and blessed the woman, naming her Ekadashi. He decreed that those who fast on this day would attain moksha or liberation. This legend explains the spiritual significance of all Ekadashi observances, including Varuthini Ekadashi.

Varuthini Ekadashi holds a special place among the 24 Ekadashi observances that occur in a lunar year Its importance is multifaceted, touching various aspects of Hindu spiritual and cultural life. The observance is believed to cleanse the soul and elevate spiritual consciousness. Devotees seek the grace of Lord Vishnu, believing that sincere observance brings immense spiritual benefits. It is thought to help individuals overcome the burden of past sins and negative karma. The festival is seen as a shield against evil influences and negative energies. Many believe that observing Varuthini Ekadashi can lead to the fulfilment of righteous wishes and aspirations. The festival also brings people together, strengthening social and cultural ties within the community.

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In contemporary times, the observance of Varuthini Ekadashi continues to be an important part of Hindu religious practice. While the core spiritual principles remain unchanged, the way the festival is celebrated has adapted to modern lifestyles. Many temples now offer online darshan and puja services, allowing devotees to participate remotely. While traditional fasting practices are still followed by many, some adapt the fast to suit their health needs and work schedules.

Varuthini Ekadashi stands as a testament to the rich spiritual heritage of Hinduism. It embodies the principles of devotion, self-discipline, and the pursuit of spiritual growth. The festival’s enduring popularity and significance highlight its relevance in both ancient and modern contexts.

Through its rituals, myths, and spiritual practices, Varuthini Ekadashi offers devotees a path to connect with the divine, seek personal transformation, and contribute to the welfare of their community. As with many Hindu observances, it blends deep philosophical concepts with practical spiritual practices, making it accessible to devotees from all walks of life. In an increasingly fast-paced and materialistic world, festivals like Varuthini Ekadashi serve as important reminders of the eternal spiritual truths that have guided Hindu civilization for millennia. They offer a moment of pause, reflection, and renewal, allowing individuals to realign themselves with their higher purpose and spiritual goals. It is these festivals that stand as a bridge between the ancient and the contemporary, ensuring that the spiritual legacy of Hinduism remains vibrant and relevant for generations to come.

Sacred Stones, Spaces and Stories: Shakti Peethas Part 1

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For the past few months, I have been increasingly interested in Hinduism. I’ve been praying more and learning more about my culture, and so a natural offshoot of this was becoming more interested in the different temples and their stories. As I started learning more, I thought I should share it with everyone, hence this new series. This series, which I will call Sacred Stones, Spaces, and Stories, will dive deeper into the various temples across the subcontinent. I will start with the Shaktipeeths dedicated to the Mother Goddess. We can learn more about the Divya Desams, Vaishnava temples of great significance, the Jyotirlingas, dedicated to Lord Shiva, as well as the Ashtavinayaks, temples for Lord Ganesha. Follow me on this journey as we learn more about the incredible temples and the stories behind them. I will upload a new post every Friday starting next week about one or more temples. Today, let’s learn more about Shaktipeeths.

Shakti Peethas are sacred sites in Hinduism dedicated to the worship of Goddess Shakti, the divine feminine power. These temples hold immense spiritual significance and are scattered across the Indian subcontinent, including parts of Bangladesh, Nepal, and Pakistan. The origin of these temples is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, particularly in the tragic tale of Goddess Sati and Lord Shiva.

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The story behind the creation of Shakti Peethas is one of the most poignant and significant in Hindu mythology. It revolves around Goddess Sati, the first consort of Lord Shiva, and her father, King Daksha. Sati, daughter of King Daksha, was married to Lord Shiva against her father’s wishes. Daksha, disapproving of this union, organised a grand yajna or sacrificial ritual but deliberately excluded Sati and Shiva from the invitation. Despite Shiva’s advice, Sati decided to attend the yajna, determined to uphold her husband’s honour.

At the yajna, Daksha publicly insulted Lord Shiva, which Sati could not bear. In a supreme act of devotion and protest, Sati invoked her yogic powers and immolated herself in the sacrificial fire. This act of self-sacrifice had profound cosmic repercussions and forms the crux of the Shaktipeetha origin story.

Upon learning of Sati’s death, Lord Shiva was overcome with grief and rage. He created two fearsome deities, Virabhadra and Bhadrakali, who wreaked havoc at Daksha’s yajna. Shiva then took up Sati’s charred body and began to perform the Tandava, the cosmic dance of destruction, across the universe. As Shiva’s dance threatened to unravel the cosmic order, the other gods appealed to Lord Vishnu to intervene. Using his divine discus, the Sudarshana Chakra, Vishnu dismembered Sati’s body into multiple pieces. These pieces fell to earth at various locations, each becoming a sacred Shakti Peetha.

Each Shakti Peetha is believed to embody a particular form of the Goddess Shakti, representing different aspects of her divine power. These sites are not just temples but are considered to be living manifestations of the Goddess herself. The exact number of Shakti Peethas is a matter of debate among different Hindu texts. Various Puranas mention 51, 52, 64, or even 108 Shakti Peethas. However, 51 is the most commonly accepted number. These sacred sites are spread across the Indian subcontinent, with some located in present-day Bangladesh, Nepal, and Pakistan.

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Among the Shakti Peethas, four are considered to be of paramount importance and are known as the Adi Shakti Peethas. These are the Kamakhya Temple in Assam, associated with Sati’s yoni or vagina; the Kalighat Temple in Kolkata, associated with Sati’s face; the Tara Tarini Temple in Behrampur, Odisha, associated with Sati’s chest; and the Bimala Temple in Puri, associated with Sati’s feet. These four sites are believed to be the most potent in terms of spiritual energy and are highly revered by devotees.

Shakti Peethas are not merely places of worship; they represent the fundamental concept of Shakti or divine feminine energy in Hinduism. They are considered sources of immense spiritual power and are believed to fulfil the desires of devotees who visit them with true devotion.

At each Shakti Peetha, the Goddess is worshipped in a specific form, often accompanied by a form of Bhairava, a manifestation of Lord Shiva. The worship practices can vary from one Peetha to another, but they generally involve offerings, prayers, and sometimes elaborate rituals.

Visiting the Shakti Peethas is considered a significant pilgrimage in Hinduism. Many devotees undertake arduous journeys to visit these sites, believing that such pilgrimages can lead to spiritual enlightenment, fulfilment of wishes, and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Many Shakti Peethas have faced challenges over the centuries, including invasions, natural disasters, and the ravages of time. Some, like those in Bangladesh, have witnessed heroic efforts by devotees to protect and preserve them. Efforts are ongoing to restore and maintain these ancient temples. Many have undergone renovations to preserve their architectural beauty while maintaining their spiritual essence. However, the challenge lies in balancing modernisation with the preservation of the temples’ historical and spiritual integrity.

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Shakti Peethas are not just religious sites but also repositories of art, architecture, and cultural heritage. They often feature intricate carvings, sculptures, and architectural styles that reflect the artistic traditions of their respective regions. In the contemporary era, Shakti Peethas continue to be centres of faith and pilgrimage. They attract millions of devotees annually and play a significant role in the spiritual and cultural life of Hindus. Many Shakti Peethas have become important tourist destinations, contributing to the local economy. This has led to the development of infrastructure around these sites, making them more accessible to pilgrims and tourists alike. Some Shakti Peethas have evolved into spiritual retreats and yoga centres, offering programmes that blend traditional practices with modern wellness approaches. This evolution reflects the adaptability of these ancient sites to contemporary spiritual needs.

As we explore these Shakti Peethas, we delve into a world where myth and reality intertwine, where ancient stories come alive through stone and ritual, and where the divine feminine is celebrated in all her power and glory. These temples serve as bridges between the earthly and the divine, offering seekers a chance to connect with the primordial energy of creation. As we continue this series on Hindu temples, the Shakti Peethas serve as a profound starting point, setting the stage for an exploration of the rich and diverse world of Hindu sacred architecture and spirituality. These temples, with their deep-rooted legends and living traditions, offer a window into the heart of Hindu philosophy and practice, inviting us to discover the divine in the world around us and within ourselves. So let’s start on our journey of exploration.

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.