Marvel’s newly released secret invasion gives a fresh take on the web series that is released by Marvel Studious, it’s not a generic and vibrant Marvel web series, For the last few years Marvel has been exploring the cosmic and mystical side of the MCU there were no grounded project as like Captain America: Winter Soldier but the new Secret invasion web series follows a serious tone and goes deeper in exploring the ground reality of the MCU, It’s a complete thriller series which will hook you till the end, This series is Dareker than the other marvel projects which is good because it follows a serious tone. Fans wanted a grounded and good Marvel project since Falcon and the winter soldier which was set in phase four but after a long time they are getting it in the form of Secret Invasion and it’s the first Mature and grounded project from Marvel in Phase 5.
The Premise of the Story
The story of Secret Invasion is loosely based on the comic book crossover event named “Secret Invasion” which had a run from June 2008 to Jan. 2009, After the things that happened in the Captain Marvel movie, The Skrulls were promised a home where they can live peacefully but the promise was never fulfilled and when they felt that there are being ignored they started Sneaking in the government and taking big positions, staying undercover for a long time now they are going to start a war between America and Russia so that they can take over the world while the people are busy fighting Wars, And Nick fury is trying to prevent it from happening.
Nick Fury’s Role in the Secret Invasion
Image Courtesy – Marvel
Nick Fury is the main lead of this web series and he does a pretty great job acting wise, His expressions show the seriousness of the series, In the series Nick Fury goes on a journey to find out more about this Invasion which is done by the Skrulls and he searches for his former associates and makes a team to put a stop on this Invasion immediately, Nick fury has emerged as a leader in this Web series who takes matters in his own hands and solves, Sometimes in the series he becomes ruthless and violent.
The Ideology of Skrulls
Skrulls are beings that can transform their face and body shape and make it look like whatever person they want, This is the level of threat they possess, In the series Secret Invasion The Rebellion Skrulls led by Talos want to conquer the earth while some are still on the virtuous side there is a bigger threat of Super Skrulls, These Skrulls can mimic the powers of other Superheroes which is insane considering the fact that in MCU’s earth, there are a lot of super-powered beings, overall the ideology of the Skrulls is that they want revenge because what they were promised is forgotten.
Difference Between Secret Invasion and other Marvel Series
Secret Invasion carries a tone that no other Marvel series had in the past, Its cinematography is somewhat similar to that of Captain America: Winter Soldier, Also Emilia Clarke’s character G’iah who is the daughter of Talos, In the trailer we have seen a glimpse of Talos which is Also portrayed as a serious character sets the narrative that there will be no jokes and comedy in this series. Its CGI is also better and it has a graphic scene showing torture. Even though a lot of kids watch Marvel movies this is not the one they should watch.
Final conclusion of the series
Overall this is a grounded series, Nick fury is not an overpowered or mystical character like – Captain America, Iron Man, and Ghost Rider, But still, This series gives a fresh new take on the current ongoing situation of the MCU, There are some errors like the motives of some characters don’t seem well written except Nick fury. And the first two episodes don’t have a lot of paranoid stuff simply because they are likely building up for the Upcoming episodes. Overall this series deserves a 7.5 out of 10 points. My take is that you should definitely watch this the director Ali Selim did a fantastic job capturing the serious side of the Marvel cinematic universe.
Authors bio: This is a guest post written by Swarit Shukla. He writes at Superpop and has been an avid fan of Marvel and DC superheroes. He will tell you here The review of Secret Invasion series.
Indian art is of many styles, themes, histories and origins, and one of the most popular themes in the art of India is the admiration of God. Some of India’s most renowned and beautiful art styles, like Thanjavur Painting of Tamil Nadu and Madhubani art of Mithila were primarily made to admire and portray the beauty of God in many forms. One such school of painting is that of mural paintings from God’s own country, Kerala.
Kerala mural paintings have their origins in about the seventh or eighth centuries AD, temples dating to which period are the earliest that have been found. Most paintings have been dated to the period of the ninth to twelfth centuries. Some of the oldest murals, and the oldest extant paintings of the Kerala school of mural paintings can be found on the walls of the rock cut cave temples of Thrunanadikkara and Tiruvanchikulam, dated to about the ninth century AD. Kerala Murals were heavily influenced by Pallava art and culture, since they grew under the Pallavas’ patronage.
The Kerala mural paintings grew to the pinnacle of their popularity during the medieval ages, starting from about the fourteenth century. Sanskrit texts like the Silparatnam and the Chitrasutram were comprehensive texts that helped artists come up with great works. These were some of the most comprehensive works on paintings and art, it is said that there is no work more detailed about art than the Chitrasutram.
With the colonial takeover of the Indian subcontinent, traditional arts declined. Indian art forms became extinct altogether or had to adapt to the tastes of the British to survive the period. Kerala mural arts, thus, began making appearances in churches, but still reached the point of near extinction under the British. Kerala murals were at the cusp of extinction, and their future was uncertain.
Post independence, an active revival of the art was undertaken, both by the government, several organisations and scholars. Interestingly, a massive destruction of the wealth of mural paintings in Kerala in the Guruvayoor temple led to a concerted effort to preserve the art. A fire in 1970 broke out in the temple, destroying many of its finest masterpieces. Only three artists could be summoned to restore these masterpieces, and this made the temple trust realise the scarcity of mural artists. Hence, one of the bodies that has led the revival of this traditional art form are The Centre for Mural studies, established by the Guruvayoor Devaswom Board, besides the Sree Sankaracharya University in Kallady.
Kerala murals derive their themes from the wealth of Hindu mythology over the centuries. While many art forms remain biassed because of sectarian views, the Kerala murals have a fairly balanced proportion of themes, representing the stories of both Vishnu and Shiva with equal importance.
The figures of Gods and humans in the Kerala murals are highly stylized, with exaggerated eyebrows, elongated eyes, hand gestures and voluminous curves. The Gods and humans themselves are dressed in elaborate headdresses and dresses, and there is a soft beauty to these figures. Flora and fauna, however, are represented in a manner closer to life. The murals are vividly coloured with Panchavarna, or five colours- ochre red, yellow ochre, green, black and white, with white being the colour of the wall itself. .
The first step in making traditional Kerala murals is the preparation of the granite. Plaster of a mixture of lime and sand is prepared in the ratio 1:2 and applied on the walls, and then the same mixture is applied mixed with cotton. It is followed by twenty to thirty washes of quick lime and tender coconut juice. Red is derived from red laterite, yellow is derived from yellow laterite, white from lime, and black from oil-lamp soot. Leaves of Indigo are squeezed and the extract is used after drying up to be mixed with Eravikkara tree’s leaves’ juice for obtaining the green pigment. The extent of the blue or green in the colour depends on the ratios of the dyes. The binding agent for the pigments is made from tender coconut water and neem leaves.
While Kerala murals are not at the pinnacle of their popularity, they are undergoing a revival after their near extinction under the British. As a result of the efforts of The Centre for Mural studies and other prominent organisations, there are multiple artists today who replicate the ancient art of Kerala mural painting. However, to sustain its popularity, the art has had to undergo a transformation- many artists are now choosing to paint on canvas or paper with synthetic colours to appeal to a wider audience. The future of Kerala murals seems fairly secure, with the state government taking a special interest in the art, having recently initiated steps to conserve the ancient murals of Mahadeva Temple in Ettumanoor.
A popular Kerala mural artist today is Manikandan Punnakkal from Palakkad. Another young artist, Vishnu P Vikraman from Puthenvelikara is a product of the Sankaracharya University’s efforts to preserve the art. This link gives the details and contact numbers of several artists practising the art form here. Top Kerala Mural Artists
Conclusion
Kerala mural paintings are a beautiful and intricate art form that has a rich history and cultural significance in not just the state of Kerala, but that of India as well. It represents centuries of devotion, representing God in all forms and of all sects. It is important that the artists take into account modern demands while retaining its focus around God to increase awareness and popularity, besides preserving the art in its most traditional forms. Additionally, the Common populace must also make concerted efforts to encourage artists and popularise this beautiful art form, representing centuries of the tradition of devotion to God.
Kerala, known as ‘God’s own country’, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage closely connected with the divine and its breathtaking natural beauty. Beyond its lush green landscapes and serene backwaters, The GI tagged products of Kerala showcase the state’s unique heritage and craftsmanship to the world, these products preserve Kerala’s cultural legacy, ensuring that future generations can savor and appreciate the authentic flavors and craftsmanship that define this enchanting region. From aromatic spices of unparalleled quality like cardamom and black pepper to the beautiful handwoven Chendamangalam textiles and the secret craft of Aranmula Kannadi, Kerala boasts an array of unique products reflecting its rich history and geography.
What is the GI tag?
The GI tag, also known as Geographical Indication tag, is a form of intellectual property right granted to certain products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are closely associated with that origin. It is a certification that recognizes the unique characteristics and traditional knowledge associated with a particular region. The GI tag helps preserve traditional crafts and production practices unique to a certain region. On the global level, GI tags are recognised by the WHO, and are covered as a component of intellectual property rights under the Paris convention. In India, the issue of the GI tag is administered by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) 1999. The first product to get the GI tag was Darjeeling tea in 2005.
Aranmula Kannadi or literally ‘Aranmula mirror’ has a long history intimately linked to the Aranmula Parthasarathy temple. It is said that eight families of temple craftsmen from Tirunelveli were invited to the temple for their works in temple crafts. These craftsmen specialised in metalworks, and incidentally stumbled upon a reflective alloy in the course of their work, according to legend. This community of metal workers began making mirrors ever since, and the alloy has remained a secret since then. The mirrors are unique because of this alloy. Usually, mirrors are made by electroplating silver onto glass, while Aranmula Kannadi is made by polishing this alloy. These mirrors have become an integral part of the indigenous traditions of Kerala, the Aranmula Kannadi being one of the Ashtamangalyam or eight auspicious things used in the entry of a bride to a wedding. Aranmula Kannadi is only made by one family today, and was awarded the GI tag in 2005 in order to protect and preserve the uniqueness of the craft.
The famous Palakaddan matta, or Palakkad rice, in Malayalam, is famous for its rich, earthy flavour, its high nutritional content and its reddish-brown colour. It is different from regular brown rice and is widely used in the Southern states of India for traditional lunches and breakfast dishes. Palakaddan matta was granted the GI tag in 2007.
Alleppey Coir products are a part of a tradition of centuries or perhaps millennia of making handcrafted products for utility. It has been a part of the traditional crafts of Alleppey for a long time, but under the British, it was industrialised, with the first Coir factory being set up in 1859. Coir products in Alleppey include doormats, fenders and mattings for a range of purposes. They are commonplace in every Kerala home. Alleppey coir products are unique because they are made by small cottage units today, with entire families being involved in the manufacturing process. They are of unparalleled quality, made to BIS(Board of Indian Standards) specifications and with unique geometrical patterns. Alleppey Coir products were granted the GI tag in 2007.
4. Malabar Pepper
Malabar pepper is pepper that is grown along the entirety of the Malabar coast now, and is known for its sweet, spicy and pungent flavour. It has been renown for its high quality and unique flavour for centuries and was sought after by European and middle eastern traders for a long time, beginning from the ancient Romans. It was given the GI tag in 2008.
The cotton textiles of the village of Chendamangalam in Ernakulam are known for their fine quality and unique, simple design. The dhoties and the set mundu of Chendamangalam are made of Muslin and are plain white with a kasavu border, a border made of very fine threads of gold or silver. The yarn is handspun and it is because of the unique, long process of preparation and pre-weaving that got the Chendamangalam sarees the GI tag.The yarn is soaked for a week and stretched out before dawn, because the temperature is said to be ideal around that time of day. Chendamangalam textiles are synonymous with Kerala, and got the GI tag in 2012.
The Palakkad maddalam has a history that goes about eight hundred years back in history. It is a traditional drum made in Kerala and is used in several of Kerala’s traditional performing art forms like Kathakali and Krishnattam. It is considered divine- even Shiva was said to have danced to it. The can only be made by specialised craftsmen, who have an array of skills and tools including a special traditional set of chisels and hammers. It was given the GI tag in 2008.
The screw pine crafts of Kerala are said to have a history dating to the thirteenth century. The screw pine plant grows in abundance along the banks of the multiple water bodies of Kerala, and the crafts are primarily made in the Thrissur district of Kerala. The products made include wall hangings, baskets, and doormats and serve a variety of utilitarian purposes. The craft is mostly practised by women. They are unique for their material, designs and for the community of women who manufacture them. They were granted the GI tag in 2015.
Conclusion
The GI tagged products of a region represent the rich and unique cultural heritage and agricultural, cultural and handcrafting practices of a region. The GI tag products of Kerala are several and their uniqueness contributes to the state’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant economy. From its world-renowned spices to its exquisite handcrafted artefacts, Kerala offers a treasure trove of distinct products that showcase the region’s exceptional craftsmanship and natural resources. The combination of centuries-old traditional techniques and contemporary innovation has resulted in products that are both aesthetically pleasing and of exceptional quality, and have gained their due recognition with the GI tag.
#Didyouknow that a poet-king by name Amaru/Amaruka has composed a hundred verses on love and erotic longing, an important aspect of being human, back in the 8th century? The text has been read, appreciated. illustrated and translated by many as well. A translated text by C. R. Devdhar of 1959 says the following –
“The Amarusataka is a centum of lyrical pieces, each complete in itself, enshrining in delicate cameo like pictures, various fleeting emotions, moods and attitudes, couched in language which makes for magical beauty and charm. Often the lyrics assume a dramatic form which dynamically unfolds the working to a climax of a set of actions and circumstances evolved from one another. Thus, these pictures – ” these moment’s”- are not static, though they seem to have arrested and frozen the lover’s thoughts, moods, actions and desires into the span of just four lines”.
Let’s check out this seemingly lyrically beautiful love text which is also classified under erotic poetry of India.
What is Amarushataka?
It is a collection of hundred (shataka) beautiful love lyrics tinged with the erotic in different situations in a love equation. The situations include the joys of union, agony of separation, jealousy, anger among others. The subject relates to shringara rasa (essence of romance, passion, erotica) which further involves courtship and dalliance, heartache, estrangement, wounded pride, longing and union and the joys and sorrows connected with it between lovers. There seem to be more verses on longing and separation. This work is held in high esteem in Sanskrit literature from India which was composed in the mid-8th century. However not much is known about life of the poet Amaruka, except that he could be most probably King Amaru of Kashmir.
It has even been compared to poet and dramatist Kalidasa’s work and Bhartṛhari’s Sṛngarasataka. It has even been a benchmark to judge other poetry. The 9th century Kashmiri literary critic and philosopher, Anandavardhana (820-890 A.D)declared in his Dhvanyalokathat “a single stanza of the poet Amaru may provide the taste of love equal to what’s found in whole volumes.” which gave the work an important position in Sanskrit literature. Four different versions of the text occur in India, ranging from 96 to 115 stanzas. There is a Southern version which was edited in 1420 A.D by Vemabhupala. The work has been translated by many scholars both Indian and Western. There is a general feeling that some stanzas could be the work of different poets among some scholars, but the Indian tradition has treated Amarushataka as one poet’s work.
It is believed as per a legend; the great Hindu saint Adi Shankaracharya, during his debate with Maṇḍana Miśra, was asked questions on love by the latter’s wife, Ubhaya Bharati, which he could not answer. In order to learn the philosophy of ‘Kama’or ‘Erotic Love’, he enters the body of King Amaru after his death to learn the nuances of love and intimacy and then he can make love to the women of his harem – a different one every night for a hundred nights, and realises that each experience is different. He could answer her questions after this. He wrote it down in verses and so some people attribute the ‘shataka’ to him!
Amarushataka in paintings
Some translated verses from the text of ‘Amurashataka’ are presented here to understand the lyrical work with its nuances which has been captured in Indian painting mainly by the Malwa School in the 17th century. The folios of some illustrated texts from Malwa, dated to the mid-17th century seem to be scattered across the globe in different collections. The CSVMS Museum at Mumbai has a large collection. The translations mentioned are only representative of the situation the painting may be depicting; and not exactly what is written on the top of the paintings. Peacocks are a symbol of love or the absent beloved sometimes, it is well depicted in the paintings.
Portraits of women in architectural settings such as pavilions, terraces, gardens and courtyards were very popular in Malwa School of painting. These nayikas (heroines) do not represent a specific woman, but represent emotional states, situations and moods. They yearn to be united with their lovers, the nayakas, and this is often compared with the soul’s yearning to unite with the divine.
‘’Now I know everything.
Please go. Talking is pointless.
You don’t bear the
slightest blame,
fate has simply turned from me.
If your so abundant love
comes to this
what pain could I experience
if hateful life—
mere flicker of nature—
Departed?’’
…………………………
– atranslation byby Andrew Schelling
The painting Confidante talking to heroine’s lover depicts a conflict in which the heroine is not happy with the lover’s conduct and is expressing the same through her confidante. She is sitting behind her. She is also referred to as female messenger or ‘duti’ who used to deliver messages, resolve the proverbial ‘lovers tiff’ or could even cheat on her friend!
Confidante talking to heroine’s lover, Malwa, circa 1650-60. Asia Society and Museum, New York. Wikimedia
The paintingWife waits for husband, shows a distraught woman waiting for her lover in the palace late into the night. He does not seem to have turned up. This illustration depicts either the agony of separation combined with the sweetness of anticipation.
‘’As far as the eye could reach, she scanned the path by which her lover was to come; but as the day declined and darkness crept apace, and the traffic on the roads ceased, her heart was filled with despair, and sadly she took but a single step homewards, and thinking, “Could he not have come this moment?” she quickly turned her neck and looked back again’’
…………………………
– a translation by C. R. Devadhar.
Wife waits for husband, Malwa painting, early 17th century, Smithsonian Freer Sackler Gallery. U S A. – Image: Wikimedia
In the painting Heroine talking to her confidantethe heroine is seated on a short-legged settee and is confiding to her sakhi or confidante about her lover and to which the ‘sakhi’(confidante) is expected to respond and advise. The heroine is pining for her absent lover and discusses her melancholy mood with her confidante.
‘’In playful feigned anger, hardly had I asked him to go away when the hard headed man sprang from the bed and just walked away. My shameless heart just pines for the merciless on who trampled on my love. Tell me o dear what do I do?’’
…………………………
– a translation by Harsha V. Dehejia
Heroine talking to her confidante, page from a Amarushataka, Malwa, circa 1670, LACMA, Los Angeles, U S A. – Image: Wikimedia
In the painting Tryst with the beloved, the lovers have met and are in happy space. It seems to be raining and they are sitting close to each other on a pavillion as it thunders outside.
‘’Swept away on the flood of the river of love’s passion, and held back by the dam in the form of the elders of the house, the lovers are unable to satisfy their desires ralthough they are in close proximity ; all the same facing each other with limbs that appear to be painted pictures, they drink the nectar ( of love ) brought to them through the lotus-stalks in the shape of their glances’’
…………………………
a translation by C. R. Devadhar.
Tryst with the beloved, Malwa painting, 17th century. Minneapolis Institute of Art, Minnesota, U S A. Image – Artsmia.org
In the painting The distressed heroine, the nayaka (hero) enters the chamber of the nayika (heroine). She looks upset and her hand is rubbing her forehead in confusion. He stands before her with arms down. Two peacocks seem to be calling loudly. Like most Malwa paintings there is an ornate scrollwork at the lower end of the painting.
‘’Coming every day at the break of dawn, thou hast robbed my eyes of sleep; I feel very light in my body as thou hast helped to remove the heaviness of my drooping spirits; (listless that I am, my sense of self-respect is lost and I am made to look small.) Innocent that you are, you have done nothing improper. I have discarded the fear of death. Now go, thou art in pain. What I would do towards my cure, that with thou hear later on’’
…………………………
– a translation by C. R. Devadhar.
The distressed heroine, Malwa painting, 17th century. From a Sotheby’s collection. Sothebys.com
In the painting Apologetic lover, the nayaka (hero) in the chamber of a nayika (heroine) is asking to be forgiven for his mistakes. She looks away angrily while holding her veil. She is trying to push him away. His hand is on her shoulder with a love-lorn look on his face. A situation depicted very well by the artist.
“Fair maiden, break your silence, I am at your feet. Your anger has never been like this’ – when he said those words he gave sideward glances, shed profuse tears, but said nothing.”
…………………………
– a translation by Harsha V. Dehejia
Apologetic lover, Malwa painting,17th century. From a Sotheby’s collection.Sothebys.com
In the painting Return of the Errant Lover, the nayika has been waiting for her beloved who has come maybe come back days after the promised date. The garland in his left hand depicts love and union with one’s beloved.
“When her guilty beloved comes home the beloved skilfully uses her eyes. They are anxious when he is at a distance, perplexed when he comes near, they grow big when he speaks……………..,…her eyes have become skilled in transforming itself to her lover’s mood’’
…………………………
– a translation by Harsha V. Dehejia
Return of the Errant Lover, Malwa, circa 1660, LACMA, Los Angeles, U S A. Image: Picryl.com
Return of the Errant Lover, Malwa, circa 1660, LACMA, Los Angeles, U S A.
Thus, we see from the above translations and the paintings that poet Amaru, has indeed understood all the nuances and situations in love in its various aspects and has truly portrayed the essence of Shringara in his beautiful work which has attracted artists and their patrons to the text to illustrate the verses.
References –
C. R. Devadhar, ed. (1959) Amarusatakam (A centum of Ancient Love Lyrics of Amaruka); a literal translation of the complete text, Poona: Motilal Banarsidass.
Andrew Schelling, tr. (2004) Erotic Love Poems from India: selections from the Amarushataka, Boston: Shambhala Publications.
Dehejia, Harsha V et.al (2017) Amarushataka: a centennial of love songs, New Delhi: D.K Printworld (Pvt) Ltd.
The king of fruits, the mango is finally here! Who doesn’t enjoy a sumptuous bite of this juicy delicacy, especially in this scorching heat? And so come the summers and our households and market places turn into mango storing and devouring destinations in no time. The hearty fruit is invariably included in our daily diets and converted into various forms and delicacies, however, just eating it raw or slurping on its pulpy juice is good enough too!
Mangoes are a huge part of our culture. From mango trees, to the fruit itself and its conversion into lip-smacking chutneys, the mango remains one of the most favorite fruit of the nation. And probably to make sure one never tires of it or gets just about enough of it, there are a large variety of mangoes that are grown and available for consumption each year. Some of the types are easily identifiable by laymen, whereas, others need the expert eye of seasoned market shoppers. Here is taking a look at some of the most delicious mango varieties that you can expect to find at your local fruit market.
Alphonso mangoes are bright yellow in color and are named after Alfonso de Albuquerque. Cultivated in the Maharashtra region these are one of the most expensive varieties and are also known as Ratnagiri and Haphus.
Dasheri are another set of the royal variety of mangoes. Grown along the northern areas, especially in and around Lucknow, the Dasheri mangoes are green in color.
Kesari is cultivated in Gujarat and gets its name from the ‘kesar’ or saffron like color. Grown along the Girnar Hills in Junagadh these are also known as the ‘Queen of Mangoes.’
Chausa is another variety from the Uttar Pradesh region and are called so because there is nothing more heavenly than ‘sucking’ on them. They are distinguished from their color, as well as, an energizing aromatic fragrance.
Badami variety mangoes are famous in Karnataka and are also called the Karnataka Alphonso.
Some of the many other varieties include the Langra in UP, Totapuri and Raspuri in Karnataka, Neelam and Safeda in Andhra Pradesh, Himsagar and Kishan Bhog in West Bengal, Mankurad in Goa and others.
Delightful Dishes Made from Mango
Image by Imo Flow
Mangoes are used to prepare a wide range of dishes that are both sweet and savory. From milkshakes to meals, mangoes are an essential ingredient in so many of our most loved delicacies.
Mango ras is the basic and most sought after dish. It is also perhaps the easiest to prepare! Just squeeze the mango and enjoy the pulp with chapatis or hot puris.
But there are hundreds of sweet dishes that can be prepared using mangoes. It could be traditional dishes, such as firni and kheer, to more exotic modern delicacies like pancakes, soufflés, mousse, puddings, cakes and more.
And though one can find a lot of ways to include mangoes in both daily and special dishes, it is the traditional dishes and usage of mango in our kitchens that make it truly the king of varied cuisines. Mango pickles and mango chunda are favorites with hot parathas. The ‘aam ka aachaars’ are popular throughout the country with variations across states and regions. It could be the aamer aachar from Bengal, the Punjabi aam aachar, the amba ki chutney or the keri aachar. Each has subtle variations and added ingredients that add flavors to the everlasting pickles that are such an important part of our everyday meals.
Similarly, different regions have their own special dishes using mango, such as the mango pachadi served on a banana leaf with rice or the mambazha pulissery curry from Kerala and the mambazham sambhar from Tamil Nadu.
Raw Mangoes in India
Image by basavarajh
Now the raw mangoes deserve a separate section of its own for the simple reason that raw mango dishes and cuisines includes a whole different gamut of drinks, snacks, pickles etc.
Raw mangoes may not go down too well into our desserts because they are sour, but they serve the purpose of excellent additions into the tangy and sour departments of our cuisine. Let’s admit that we enjoy our snacks heartily, especially the ones that are called the ‘chaats’ and the raw mangoes sliced into any of these chaat items, such as our bhels or dahi or muri chaats are such a delight.
Image – Wikimedia
The raw mango drink, aam panna is a perfect elixir during hot sultry summer days and the sweet morabba goes well with practically all meals and dishes.
The list can go on regarding dishes one can make from both raw and ripe mangoes and thus, this is a great time to do some quick research on recipes and enjoy your meals this summer season.
Takeaways
However, in spite of the many culinary aspects of the mango, the fruit stands out for its multiple uses and its dominant involvement in our lives for a couple of months. The mango simply becomes the most ubiquitous entity in our markets, homes, dining tables and even conversations during the summer season. It is sown into our childhood memories, in our moments of quiet solitude and in our sneaky after dinner escapades. Its arrival is anticipated with fervor and its departure is lamented with a heavy heart. But we wait, for the next year for the king to make its way into our hearts and gastronomical fantasies and almost never does it disappoint.
Simon Thacker is a renowned musician, whose collaborative works with artists across the world are well known. His most recent production Tandava will be a premiered in the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2023, as part of the Made in Scotland Showcase. Also, in Tandava, Simon is collaborating with Bangalore’s Piah Dance Company, thus, representing both Scotland and Indian art forms at the Festival.
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2023
Every year in August, one of the ‘greatest celebrations of arts and culture’ takes place in Edinburgh. Known as the prestigious Edinburgh Festival Fringe, this year, 2023 will be no different. It will be held from 4th – 28th August, 2023 and will showcase artists from more than 70 countries.
Made in Scotland is a ‘curated showcase’ of performances from Scotland at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. It is supported by the Scottish Government’s Festivals Expo Fund. It is also a partnership between Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society, Federation of Scottish Theatre, Scottish Music Centre and Creative Scotland.
Tandava at the Festival
Image -Nitesh Anand
Tandava is one of the events that will be premiered at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2023. Below are the event details for the same:
Date: 18th – 20th August & 22nd -26th August 2023. (Though the event will not take place on 21st August)
Time & Duration: Tandava will be showcased from 20:25 hours onwards. It is a 50 minutes show.
Cost of tickets: Pounds 12 (Pounds 10), Pounds 36 for family (2 adults, 2 children)
About Tandava
Image -Nitesh Anand
Simon Thacker and Piah Dance Company are collaborating for the second time in Tandava. Their first collaboration was Mann Vasanai in 2019. In Tandava, the three dancers who are a part of the production are Priya Varunesh Kumar from Ahmedabad, Meghana Balaji and Sangeetha Jayaram from Bangalore.
Tandava is a Sanskrit word, that means a cosmic dance. The cosmic dance which is also the source of the cycle of the universe and life. Tandava, is thus the coming together of opposites. It is the dance that signifies, creation, preservation and destruction or dissolution. Similarly, the production Tandava, created by Simon Thacker and three dancers from the Piah Dance Company is the unification of the diverse and opposites. There is emotion, vibrancy and rhythm in the dance performance that matches its steps to the magical guitar renditions by Simon Thacker. The melody intertwines with the intricate footwork and delicate fluttering of hands. There is a beat and momentum in the music that refuses to die down accompanied by the sublime, seamless and elegant dance moves.
The music and choreography are both emotionally charged and distinctly captivating. Tandava is for those who enjoy the finer nuances of rhythm and beats. It is also for those who understand the precision and artistic brilliance of instrumental music intertwined with Classical dancing. Hence, it is an inter-cultural extravaganza that music lovers all over the world will both relate to and appreciate.
About Simon Thacker
Simon Thacker
Simon Thacker is a composer, improviser, guitarist, ensemble leader. Essentially, he is one the finest musicians of this generation. However, his genius is not only witnessed in his mesmerizing and soulful music. But it is also in his ability to mold and collaborate with an ensemble of equally talented artists across the globe, to create a rendition and performance that is both unique, as well as, rooted in cultural heritage. He has collaborated with various musical genres, including Carnatic, Sufi, Hindustani, Bengali Baul, Scots, Flamenco and Romany.
Simon has recently won the Scottish New Music Award and was also an Ivor Novello nominee. This is his fifth year that he has been selected for the Made in Scotland showcase at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
About Piah Dance Company
Image -Nitesh Anand
Piah Dance Company is a contemporary dance group from India formed in 2011. It creates performances and choreographies that incorporate a ‘Traditional India with a Modern Twist’. It also has an online community and strong presence. Piah’s YouTube channel has over 60,000 subscribers and more than 21 million views.
The three dancers and artists collaborating with Simon Thacker in Tandava, are trained Bharatnatyam dancers who also have a deep love for Rajasthani and Gujarati folk dances.
For more details about the festival, Simon Thacker and Piah Dance Company you can check out the following links.
Slovenian citizenship by repatriation: lawyers of MigrationCentr, customer reviews
Slovenia, same as other EU states, suggests beneficial life to immigrants in case they have decided to relocate legally and for a long period of time. European Union citizenship provides more opportunities than RP or PRP and can be valid much longer.
Relocation to Slovenia or any other EU country can be simply handled by the experts in migration field, such as MigrationCentr. More about its support and the reviews from the real clients read below.
MigrationCentr: obtaining Slovenian passport
The process of acquiring a Slovenian passport with Migrationcentr.com can be divided into 5 steps:
Proof of origin. The certificates, the client should present to the lawyers are the baptismal certificate, birth certificate or both;
Preparation of the documents, including translation and notarization of them;
Filling in the dossier and submitting it to Upravna Enota by the lawyers;
The oath of allegiance should be taken by the clients themselves. In case the procedure was performed correctly, an applicant receives the citizenship certificate;
Obtaining the internal documents of Slovenia (such as ID-card, TIN, international passport, and driver’s license if it is needed).
Pros of Slovenian citizenship for the immigrants
Holders of Slovenian ID-card get such opportunities as:
Visa-free entrance to more than 180 countries;
Ability to have dual citizenship;
High level of healthcare;
Stable economy;
Prosperous country;
Chance to get a leadership position at a prestigious company;
Moreover, people who have relocated by naturalization and are now the residents of Slovenia, as passport holders, will get the work offer faster than the immigrants with the residence permit, in accordance with the information in the reviews.
Requirements for the applicants
People, who have decided to obtain the Slovenian passport by repatriation should follow strict requirements, which are to:
Be 18 years old;
Have the proof of ethnicity;
Present the valid documents;
Have no criminal records.
Reviews on Migrationcentr.com
Over the years of work in the field of international migration, MigrationCentr.com has received a lot of customer reviews. Having analyzed feedback on trusted sites such as Google reviews, Trustpilot, Provenexpert, we found a significant part of positive mentions. The company’s clients admit in their reviews the comfort of a common journey, because Migrationcentr.com offers online consultations. Nevertheless, such activities as the mandatory signing of the contract, strict adherence to the advice of lawyers, notarization of documents, etc. are what make the company trustworthy and attract more immigrants to cooperate with it.
Conclusion about MigrationCentr
Relocation to Slovenia or just planning to run business there is a reason to register the passport of the country. MigrationCentr.com suggests a great support during the process of acquiring the citizenship. According to reviews and the information on the website Migrationcentr.com, the company’s lawyers are able to cope with many stages without the participation of clients. In addition, as mentioned above, the company works legally, in accordance with EU legislation, which gives us a reason for considering it one of the most attractive companies in the immigration field.
Assam is a small north-eastern state hidden amidst the forests of the region. Beyond its popularity for the diversity of flora and fauna it hosts, one can see a completely different facet of Assam – its culture. Assam constitutes only 2.5 percent of India’s land mass, yet, the history, diversity and cultures that constitute this small state is unprecedented. Yet, in this small state are fourteen recognised plain tribes and fifteen hill tribe communities, admirable diversity for a state so small. It is a result of this diversity and its scenic landscape and geography that Assam has produced eleven GI tagged products today.
The Geographical Indication Tag
The GI or Geographical Indication tag is a certification that was introduced for protecting unique products of any kind that can be traced to a specific geographical location. They are issued under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, which came into force in 2003. The first GI tag was issued to Darjeeling Tea in 2004. The issue of this certificate means that no one elsewhere has the right to claim that they manufacture that product of a unique geographical origin or quality. The GI Tagged products reflect the rich heritage and diversity of Assam’s agricultural and artisanal offerings.
GI Tagged Products of Assam
The first product to be given the GI tag in Assam was Muga silk, awarded the GI tag in 2007. There are a total of eleven Assamese products which have been conferred the tag, the latest of which is the traditional Assamese Gamocha, a traditional Assamese style of making stoles.
Muga silk is a kind of wild silk that is native to the North-eastern regions of India, and is most widespread in Assam. The silk is known for its beautiful golden sheen, and its extreme durability. Museums in Assam feature Muga textiles showing minimal damage, despite being decades and even centuries old. The caterpillars used to produce Muga Silk are called the Muga caterpillars, which traditionally feed on the Som tree. Muga silk was only reserved for the use of royalty in the past, but is available for purchase in several government approved stores in Assam today, though it is very expensive today. This is owing to the danger of the extinction of the Muga caterpillars and the extreme duration and intensity of manual labour the Muga worm breeders and moth rearers have to put into the production of the silk. Muga silk was conferred the GI tag in 2007.
Assam is synonymous with tea, in the eyes of many. While tea is produced across India, the geography and climate of Assam produces tea of an intoxicatingly malty, pungent, astringent nature. Tea production began in Assam under the British, who recognised the conditions in Assam to be ideal for tea production. Post independence, tea production was carried forward, and Assam tea finally got a GI tag in 2008.
Boka Choul is an ancient paddy variety from the state of Assam which was long used by native Ahom soldiers during long campaigns. Today, it is widely used by farmers and housewives. The uniqueness of Boka Chaul is that it can be consumed simply after soaking in water at room temperature. Apart from this, it is very high in fibre and is extremely nutritious. It was given the GI tag in 2018.
Kaji Nemu is a variety of seedless lemon native to Assam. Unlike usual lemons, Kaji Nemu is oblong and much larger than the average lemon, in addition to being seedless. It is unique and viable for a lot of reasons – it does not fall off the trees after ripening and the trees bear fruit throughout the year. Kaji Nemu has a unique flavour – it has a lower citric acid content, making it less sour than normal lemons and has a subtle sweet flavour. Kaji Nemu is an integral part of Assamese cuisine, and it has also gained a reputation abroad – it has been sold in the UK for higher prices than in India, helping the farmers. Kaji Nemu was conferred the GI tag in 2019.
The Judima wine of Assam, a sweet, herby wine made exclusively by the Dimasa tribe of the state is a unique asset to the state’s culinary culture and heritage. The wine is made of fermented sticky rice and a special herb, and takes a total of a week to prepare. It can be consumed from then on and develops a more complex flavour profile the older it gets. The wine is traditionally made by women, and this is a factor that counts into its uniqueness. The wine is the first brew from the North-east to be conferred the GI tag in 2021.
The Gamocha has long been a cultural symbol of Assam. It is immediately recognisable, with patterns made of the traditional reds and similar vibrant colours on a background of pure cotton white, or white Tussar, eri or other traditional silks when it is meant to be used as a stole.The vibrantly coloured patterns can also be juxtaposed against the background of the beauteous golden lustre of the Muga. It is widely used in Assamese households, and the gamocha has become synonymous with Assam. It was traditionally a coarse cotton towel, as ‘gamocha’ means, and is used for various households, but it has also evolved to be used as a stole. The Gamocha is the last Assamese product to get the GI tag, in January this year.
Take Aways
The GI tagged products of Assam showcase the cultural diversity of Assam and the North-east. In an India where the North-east is viewed as a homogenous populace and entity, the GI tags not only protect the authentic practices and artisans, but also recognise the diversity of this region of India, which is much needed.
ICICI has been one of the leading companies in the country and is a pioneer in multiple spheres of society. From finances to health to banking, it has, in many ways, secured the future of Indian citizens. Other than venturing into healthcare and helping the people of India by safeguarding us with the help of insurance policies, ICICI has launched its insurance app that makes the process digitized and easy for everyone to follow. Protecting yourself, your loved ones, prized possessions, etc by investing in insurance is a task that you can now easily embark on. In case of accidents, emergencies, disasters, etc., the insurance policies that you have can be critical in mitigating the financial damage that you may otherwise incur.
ICICI Lombard’s IL TakeCare App follows the philosophy of ‘Nibhaye Vaade’. Based on your individual needs, this app will assess and provide you with the services and benefits that you desire through a digital platform. Downloading the app and exploring the various advantages it offers can be of great benefit to you and your family.
Here are 10 things that you need to know about the ICICI Lombard Insurance app:
Data Safety – The application is well-made with several security features in place to ensure that your confidential and private data is safe. Data privacy is of utmost importance and security practices vary based on the kind of use, age, and region you are from. The developers also update this information and security protocols over time. The data collected is not shared and distributed among third parties. Once you add the information, no one else will have access to it – it cannot be edited or deleted.
Range of insurance policies – If you are looking to buy insurance, this platform will offer you a range of services and different facets wherein you can claim your insurance. The vast variety of insurance products includes – motor (car and bike) insurance, travel insurance, home insurance, health insurance, etc. This leading insurance company in India takes care of all your needs on one platform and you can browse through the policies offered and renew the existing ones.
User experience – The application is made to provide an easy and user-friendly experience to all. Since a smartphone is now available in almost all homes, you can download the ICICI Lombard insurance app with ease. It is designed in a way that makes the user experience simple to navigate. You will be able to conveniently manage your insurance policies and claims with the help of your smartphone.
Hassle-free process – The most important aspect of your insurance policy would be the claim process. This app delivers a hassle-free claim process that you can complete in 3 simple steps. Initiate your claim at the click of a button, upload and provide the documents that support the claim, and track the status of the process in real-time.
Benefits associated – One of the major benefits that you can avail of with this application would be the cashless hospitalization process for health insurance policyholders. Additionally, you can also look for a wide network of hospitals and settle the bills with the application. Since you have all the resources in one place, it becomes easier to navigate through situations of emergency. Find hospitals, and garages, order medicines online, get any kind of health assistance, etc with this app.
Features – Calculate the premium amounts for the insurance policies you have chosen. The app has a built-in premium calculator that can help you get an estimate of the amount you may have to pay depending on the requirements of your coverage. 24/7 assistance is also provided regarding different aspects like health consultations or ambulance services.
Technological benefits– The app uses technology to its benefit as you can check your basic vitals with the help of a visual face scan. Additionally, another feature called CalScan can help you keep a log of the ingredients and calories in your food.
Latest news and guidelines – Read the latest news, reviews, and guidelines from the motor industry and other relevant articles on the blog section of the app.
Completely digitized – Have a complete view of your policy details, download any documents related to the policy and structure, and make changes to them online without the hassle of managing and maintaining paper trails. You will also get personalized notifications and certain alerts on your mobile phone to keep you updated in the process. Any changes in policy renewal, premium payments, or updates in the documents regarding the insurance will be altered timely to avoid any last-minute distress.
Emergencies – The app includes a handy emergency assistance feature that provides users with immediate access to helpline numbers for roadside assistance, medical emergencies, and other urgent situations.
The ICICI Lombard insurance app is an all-encompassing mobile application that can help you and your family safeguard your future and mitigate financial stress and damage in emergencies. The app being user-friendly and providing multiple benefits is a huge asset in today’s day and age.
Bihar is a land of rich cultural heritage and historical significance. However, Bihar in popular culture today is badly represented, instead of being recognised for its rich past, delicious food and vibrant festivals. However, Bihar has a remarkable range of Geographical Indication (GI) tag products, looking at which we can be better informed about the vibrant culture of the region. These GI tag products are a testament to the state’s diverse natural resources, traditional craftsmanship, and indigenous knowledge. With each product reflecting the unique identity and expertise of local communities, Bihar’s GI tag products have gained national and international recognition, while also contributing to the economic growth and empowerment of the region.
Understanding the GI Tag
The geographical indication (GI) tag is a certification that indicates the origin and uniqueness of a product that stems from its unique geographical location. It serves as a form of intellectual property protection, ensuring that products originate from that specific region or that a product possesses certain characteristics because of its origins in that particular area. The GI tag helps consumers identify and differentiate authentic products from imitations or substitutes. It also supports the local economy by promoting traditional practices and preserving cultural heritage. The GI tag is a recognition and endorsement of the link between the geographical origin and the distinctiveness of a product, providing both economic benefits and consumer trust. The tag is issued for ten years, after which it has to be renewed.
Mithila Makhana is the Makhana (foxnuts or water lily seeds), originating in the Mithila region of Bihar. Makhana has become a popular snack of late, owing to its health benefits and nutritional value. Mithila Makhana is a unique because the region provides the appropriate climatic and geographical conditions for producing high quality makhana. Besides, Bihar produces more than eighty percent of India’s Makhana production, and this will greatly help the many Makhana farmers in the state.
Madhubani art of the Mithila school of art is one of the most popular art forms in India. Madhubani art has its origins in the Mithila region of Bihar and Nepal. Madhubani art is known for its beautiful two dimensional figures painted with vivid colours portraying Indian mythological figures and society. They are made with colours derived from natural elements and are traditionally painted on freshly plastered walls and floors. Madhubani art is one of the most iconic art forms of India, receiving the GI tag in 2007.
Bhagalpur is known as the ‘silk city of India’. The silk textiles of Bhagalpur, and its sarees, specifically are well known throughout India, for their beauty and durability. Bhagalpur textiles are made of Tussar silk, and the silk industry here has sustained from the ancient times, flourishing particularly under the Mauryan empire. Besides its ancient origins and superior quality, the silk industry of Bhagalpur is also known to adopt cruelty-free ways of breeding silkworms. This is why the Bhagalpur silk industry is unique. It received the GI tag in 2013, helping the weavers of the industry get their dues.
Vetiver or Sikki grass is well known across the world for its therapeutic qualities, soothing dry and irritated skin. However, in the state of Bihar, it is put to a unique use. Women in the region have been known for centuries to dry and subsequently use the grass to weave a range of utilitarian products, including baskets, dolls, and toys. The craft by itself is very simple and beautiful, but sometimes, it is beautified further by painting with natural colours. This beautiful craft was even featured on the 2013 Republic day tableau of Bihar. The sikki grass craft of Bihar is one of the simplest and unique crafts of the region, rightfully being awarded the GI tag in 2007.
5. Shahi Litchi of Muzzafarpur
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Litchi is a fruit known for its sweet, white translucent pulp. India is the second largest producer of Litchi, and the conditions for growing Litchi are ideal in the state of Bihar, which is why the state comes first in Litchi production within the country. The city of Muzzafarpur produces the finest Litchis in the state, which is why it was conferred the GI tag in 2016.
6. Katarni rice
Image Source
The Katarni rice of Bihar is a short grained rice known for its unique aroma and taste, and is grown mainly in the Bhagalpur and Banka districts of Bihar. The rice grows only in Bihar because the soil composition is appropriate for cultivation here, but it has been facing the threat of extinction in recent times. Hence, it was awarded the GI tag in 2023 for encouraging farmers to cultivate the crop and to protect the species.
The Jardalu mango of Bihar is known for its sweet scent, light yellow skin and exceptional taste. Each Jardalu mango weighs nearly a quarter of a kilo, and it is believed that the erstwhile Raja of Kharagpur, Maharaja Rahmat Ali Khan was the first to plant the seedling of the Jardalu mango here. The mangoes have been famous for a long time for their quality and are even being exported to the UK since 2021. Officials have also been working on exporting them to other countries, and the move of giving the GI tag earlier this year will only make this delicious variety of mangoes more popular around the world.
Conclusion
The Geographical Indication (GI) tags on products from Bihar have brought about significant benefits. These GI tags have provided legal protection to unique products, ensuring their authenticity and origin. The recognition has not only empowered local artisans and farmers but has also opened doors to new economic opportunities. By preserving traditional craftsmanship and indigenous knowledge, GI tags have played a crucial role in promoting cultural heritage and sustainable development in Bihar. Additionally, these products bring to light the rich culture and traditions in craft, textile and agriculture of Bihar, giving the state some well-deserved spotlight. The GI tag has undoubtedly contributed to the preservation, promotion, and prosperity of Bihar’s rich and diverse cultural heritage.
