Festivals of Ladakh – Experience the Authentic Ladakhi Culture

October 13, 2021

Ladakh, ‘the land of high passes’, and its beautiful landscapes top the ‘must-visit’ list of every wanderlust. The mesmerizing mountain peaks, lakes, empty roads, and daunting passes of Ladakh fascinate all. The serenity Ladakh possesses is very particular to this Union Territory of India. Along with its captivating panorama, Ladakh also has a unique culture that must receive equal appreciation and acknowledgement. Ladakh has some unique festivals that bring more vibrancy and vigour to the cold land. The Tibetan culture of Ladakh celebrates these festivals according to a unique calendar. Most of these occasions take place in the courtyard of the various monasteries.

Without further ado, let us take an extended trip up to the crown of the landmass of India. We will learn about the distinct festivals of Ladakh.

1. Losar Festival

Festivals of Ladakh, Losar Festival — Image- Kashmir Ladakh Tourism / Facebook

Let us begin with the celebration of the Tibetan New Year. Losar Festival is one the most famous festivals in Ladakh, and the festival had its origin in the 7th Century.

Losar Festival is a 15 days celebration that marks the arrival of the New Year. During the fortnight of festivities, feasts are held in honour of the ancestors, gods, and animals in the various gompas and individual houses. The entire land becomes a colourful arena where monasteries, homes, and people dress up in illuminative attires. Metho, a special procession, takes place along the streets and lanes of Ladakh. People chant mantras and carry flaming torches believing that the chants and the light will keep away evil. Special preparation of foods and meeting with relatives is a must. Folk dance and music, the famous cham dance (masked dance), and special prayers are all part of the celebration.

The Losar Festival’s date varies according to the Tibetan calendar. Usually, it falls in the time of the Winter Solstice, and each year the date changes.

2. Hemis Tsechu Festival

Festivals of Ladakh, Hemis Tsechu Festival — Image – Saurabh Chatterjee / Flickr

Hemis Tsechu Festival is the most famous monastery festival in Ladakh, and devotees await this particular event throughout the year. The Hemis Tsechu Festival marks the birth of Guru Padmasambhava, one of the founding members of Tantric Buddhism in Tibet.

The celebration takes place in the Hemis Gompa, 45 km away from the central city of Leh. The monks take part in the Cham dance and wear colourful traditional clothes. The hops have a special meaning. Each of the dance moves signifies the magical deeds of Padmasambhava in his eight manifestations of defeating evils. The festivity takes place for two days. The actual date of the occasion varies each year but falls on the tenth day of the Tibetan Lunar month.

An exceptional aspect of this celebration is displaying a four-storey thangka of Guru Padmasambhava every 12 years. Other thangkas are part of the decoration every year, but this particular thangka is put up once every 12 years.

3. Matho Nagrang Festival

Festivals of Ladakh, Matho Nagrang Festival — Image – Wikimedia Commons

Matho Nagrang Festival is an extraordinary occasion that makes it stand out from other events. The celebration takes place in Matho Monastery, one of the off-beat monasteries of Ladakh.

The Matho Nagrang Festival has unique attractions like the Cham dance performances. But the unique attribute of this occasion is the prophecy of two oracles. The oracles observe two months of solitude, meditating in complete isolation. After two months, the prophets make their first public appearance. On the special day of Matho Nagrang, the forecasters predict the possible happenings of the future. Many believers flock to this monastery to take advice from them.

Matho Nagrang Festival also takes place for two days. The date again varies according to the Tibetan calendar, and the 15th day of the first month of the Tibetan calendar observes the Matho Nagrang Festival.

4. Saka Dawa Festival

Festivals of Ladakh, Saka Dawa Festival — Image – AdventureN / Facebook

Saka Dawa is one of the primary festivals not only of Ladakh but of the entire Buddhist community. It is the auspicious occasion of Buddha Purnima.

In Tibetan culture, ‘Saka’ is the star’s name closest to Earth, and ‘Dawa’ means month. Saka Dawa is the fourth month of the Tibetan calendar. This month marks the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha. The 15th day of this month is particularly holy according to Buddhist culture. The celebration includes taking pledges, eight particular oaths, by the monks. The time observes a complete period of peace and purity. The monks perform a lot of offerings to not just the deities but also the poor people. They also feed the poor. They believe good acts have rewards worth 300 times more.

This pious festival of Saka Dawa ensures the protection of all life forms. Reciting holy chants, performing sadhanas, feeding the poor are sacred acts of this festival. The date of the festival shifts according to the Buddhist calendar but usually falls in May.

5. Tak-Tok Festival

Festivals of Ladakh, Tak-Tok Festival — Image – alessandro trezzi / Flickr

Tak-Tok is one of the most exciting and attractive festivals in Ladakh, and Tak-Thok Tse-Chu is also a famous tourist attraction. The celebration takes place in the cave of the Tak Thok Gompa.

The speciality of the Tak-Tok Festival is the varied cultural performances highlighting the tradition of the community. The Lamas and local people perform the different dances, Cham dance being a must recital. The hops have specific significance, and some represent the compassionate and wrathful deities, while some bring forth various animals. People believe that visitors who come to witness this festival learn more about the teachings of their culture and get protection from evil things. Tak-Tok is an occasion for locals to dress up in their best attire like most social gatherings. Even the visitors must not miss the chance to adorn the ethnic clothes of Ladakh and get a more rustic experience of the festival.

According to the Tibetan calendar, the date of the Tak-Tok Festival is on the 10th day of the fifth month. A day of colourful events and an evening of local delicacies account for the wholesome ambience of the festival.

6. Dosmoche Festival

Festivals of Ladakh, Dosmoche Festival — Image – Wikimedia Commons

Dosmoche Festival is the ‘great prayer’ ceremony of Lhasa. It is the annual prayer festival that the Ladakh Royals first celebrated, and the festival is a symbol of washing away all evil.

Dosmoche Festival is famous amongst the locals of Ladakh, and they celebrate the occasion with a lot of pomp and fare. The affair is a marker of the well-being and safety of all the people living there. People perform the folk dances and the Cham dance. The activities take place all across Leh, Likir, and Diskit monasteries. Lamas from various monasteries across Ladakh known for their astrology and tantric practice come together for this event. They prepare Thread Crosses and other sacred emblems. These offerings are burnt. The smoke rising from these burnings is believed to carry away the evil from the place, and good luck will prevail over the place.

Dosmoche is also popularly known as the Festival of the Scapegoat. The festivities take place for two days. Dosmoche is also significant for it is the last event of the New Year celebrations. The two days of Dosmoche fall on the 28th and 29th of the twelfth month of the Tibetan calendar.

7. Sindhu Darshan

Festivals of Ladakh, Sindhu Darshan — Image – Silver Blu3 / Flickr

Sindhu Darshan is a relatively new festival that has become a very vital part of the culture of Ladakh. It was first celebrated as a promotion for Ladakh tourism in 1997. The festival now holds a unique message of communal harmony, unity, and national integration for the entire nation.

Sindhu Darshan celebrates the River Indus. The occasion takes place at Shey Manla, and this event also takes place on the auspicious day of Guru Purnima. People from across the different states of India come to participate in Sindhu Darshan. They bring water in an earthen pot from their respective states and pour it into the Indus River. Fifty lamas pray on the river banks, and different cultural programs are a must for the occasion.

Sindhu Darshan’s celebration takes place for three days. The occasion is also a way of paying respect to the heroes of the Indian Army. The festival is an excellent way of encouraging the unity and integrity of India in the tranquil land of Ladakh.

Ladakh is a land of a unique culture residing in the lap of natural beauty. These festivals of Ladakh have a distinctive flavour that further enhances the place. The picturesque sight of Ladakh is mesmerizing for tourists whenever they visit the land. But to have a more authentic experience of Ladakh, one can make plans for the dates of the different festivals of Ladakh. The unpolluted beauty of Ladakh gets a bout of vigour during these celebrations that stays with its audiences for a long time.

BIRKENSTOCK’S Fall Shoe Trends You’ll Love

Cscope Staff

October 12, 2021

BIRKENSTOCK is an iconic brand loved by fashion enthusiasts across the globe. Their shoes rank first when it comes to comfort and are easy to match with both sports outfits and tailored suits. In addition, BIRKENSTOCK has plenty of models that are exactly what your fall closet is missing.

Why is BIRKENSTOCK one of a kind?

The great success of BIRKENSTOCK shoes is about comfort, which is the new trend. Fashion is constantly changing to adapt to the tastes and needs of its time. This fall, BIRKENSTOCK presents a collection filled to the brim with minimalist designs and matte colors. You can find autumn inspirations in the Shearling, Boston, and Arizona (Big Buckle style) models. However, BIRKENSTOCK has a lot more to offer regarding autumn fashion.

Boston – the clog that everyone likes the most

If you live in a place where it’s not too hot, you should get Boston clogs. You can wear them now and in winter, with or without socks, at home or outside. Suede Leather Boston can be easily paired with leather pants, chunky fabrics, and denim. What can be more autumnal than that? So whether you want to show off during an important event, or you just wear them while shopping in the supermarket, these on-trend low shoes are going to be your most comfortable fall option.

Andermatt – for a relaxing time

Cool Andermatt slippers combine simple design with absolute comfort. Made of soft wool felt and with the original BIRKENSTOCK insert, this model is the perfect choice for a relaxing time and lazy hours spent in the privacy of your home. The Andermatt slippers are everything you need to enjoy a day off. They have an ankle-high shaft so that they provide warmth to your feet. And thanks to the latex sole, you can stand firmly in these shoes or even go outside for a little while. The Andermatt is perfect for narrow feet.

Blue Suede Arizona – a Big Buckle eye-catcher

Blue Suede Arizona sandals are maintained in a Bick Buckle style and have cushioned footbeds. Thus, it’s going to be easier for you to put them on. In addition, this model provides excellent lateral arch support and has a natural toe grip, which prevents the foot from sliding around. So, thanks to that toe bar, you’re not going to have that sliding or insecure fit or feeling.

An elegant and shiny silver buckle adds a lovely eye-catching touch to these sandals. Thus, Arizona in Blue Suede is the epitome of elegance and will be a perfect option for strolling on the windy beach.

The Arizona Shearling – cozy and warm

The Arizona Shearling model respects the traditional shape of this type of sandals but has a plush coating that keeps your feet warm during cold days. This fall/winter version of the Arizona classic will be an excellent option as comfy home footwear for the new season. In addition, with so many socks of different styles and colors, the combinations can be varied to give an extra touch to your style every day. So are you ready to feel cozy, and look chic?

Gary – leather ankle boots

These BIRKENSTOCKS are super sweet and will be a must during fall time. Inside there is an unlined leather and tons of cushioning in a suede-lined, contoured footbed. There is also a cork midsole. Gary molds to the foot’s shape over time, and it has a neutral heel profile and deep heel cup. That’s why these shoes are incredibly comfortable, cradle the foot, and distribute the weight more evenly. What’s more, we dare to say that Gary boots draw the fine line between the timeless and the trend. These BIRKENSTOCKS Gary are thus popular with female travelers because they’re comfortable, stylish, and versatile. They’ll make your feet feel great wherever you are and whatever you’re doing!

Silver Bend Low – cool sneakers for fashion lovers

These sneakers are crafted with a leather upper, and they distinguish with a really pretty metallic shine. They have a lace-up form for a secure fit, and they feature a padded collar for added ankle support. Thanks to the inside soft, breathable leather lining, and an insole that will contour to the shape of your feet, these shoes will provide you with support and comfort throughout the day. The midsole has cork inside, which ensures good shock absorption, and an outsole is grooved for added traction.

Embroideries of Kashmir – Artwork of Effective Needles and Delicate Threads

Somya Goel

October 12, 2021

Embroideries of Kashmir — Image – Dastkar / Facebook

Kashmir is the place of immense talent and skill when it comes to craft and handloom. Kashmir gained international recognition for its unique embroidery styles. Embroideries and exquisite sewing have been a cardinal part of the culture and economy of the paradise state. Embroiders manifest their artisanship in various accessories and garments, including sarees, shawls, salwar kameez, jutis, and jackets.

Kashida embroidery is the oldest and most dominant form of embroidery to originate in Kashmir. It is a unique and elegant form of art, done with a single long stitch. Even the elaborate and exclusive designs use a maximum of two to three stitches. This artwork enlightens the core values- perfection and patience. Pashmina, the most coveted art of this region, is also a part of the Kashida embroidery.

History of Kashmiri Embroideries

History of Embroideries of Kashmir — Image – Art & Tradition

The Kashida embroidery of Kashmir began in the early 11th century. Starting at a minute level, it expanded gracefully during the period of Mughal nobility. The Kashmiri embroidery art of Kashida is one of the oldest forms of embroidery in India.

According to historical records, the art form was first recorded in the 3rd century BCE. It later flourished at a broader scale under the 8th sultan of Kashmir- Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin. By the end of the 17th century, the brilliance of the embroideries of Kashmir was thriving in Asia, Europe, and beyond.

Many historians argue that embroidery came to Kashmir from the Central Asian region via the silk route. Owing to this, there are various types of embroideries in Kashmir. Each is having minute deviations.

Motifs and Stitches

Nature and scenic beauty are the constant inspiration for embroidery patterns and motifs. The list of motifs is wide-ranging. Although, the most common ones include cypress cones, almonds, lotus, and chinar leaves. Geometric designs, paisley patterns, and bird motifs are also prevalent in shawls and sarees.

In most cases, the designers outline the motifs with a darker thread, sewed along with the sujini stitch. The accustomed types of stitches involve Zalakdosi (chain stitch), Vatachikan (buttonhole stitch), and Do-rookha (double-sided stitch). Stem stitch and Herringbone stitch are some other stitching techniques used for designing and illustrating the borders.

Types of Kashmiri Embroideries

Kashmir is home for many intricate Embroidery styles, let’s take a look at some of the types of famous Embroideries of Kashmir.

1. The Crewel Embroideries

Embroideries of Kashmir- Crewel Embroidery — Image – Picryl

It is a surface embroidery technique famous in the Kashmiri handicraft industry. It is also called Aari Embroidery as it is the main tool used by embroiderers. Zalakdozi is the local name of Crewel embroidery.

The oldest piece of crewel embroidery is the Bayeux tapestry, dated about a thousand years old. The embroidery became famous in 17th century England and France as well.

You would have seen beautiful curtains, drapes, dresses, and bedding designed beautifully with this form of embroidery. The primary tool in this embroidery is the pointed crochet (aari). The type of thread used varies from woollen to art silk thread. The 2-ply wool thread work on the cloth makes this embroidery stand out. Chain stitch and padded satin stitch are the two most prominent stitches for this embroidery.

2. The Sozni Embroideries

Embroideries of Kashmir - Sozni Embroidery — Image – CarpetView/Flickr

The Islamic saint Shah Hamdan introduced the Sozni embroideries in Kashmir in the 14th century. This is a sophisticated form of needle embroidery. It is solely practised in Kashmir. Pashmina and high-quality raffal are the only cloth types designed with this embroidery.

The satin stitch motifs of this embroidery take one’s breath away. The principal design involves stitching identical patterns on both sides of the fabric. The pattern motifs commonly consist of abstract geometric designs, paisley patterns, and stylized flowers, and the designs are sober with no more than two to three colours.

3. The Tilla Embroideries

Embroideries of Kashmir - Tilla Embroidery — Image – Kashmiri Attires/ Facebook

The use of gold and silver makes it a royal embroidery style. The threads used are exclusively silver or golden. The beautiful embroidery designs are famous on the world stage for their royal and serene look. Embroiderers design the traditional kashmiri dress Phiran with this embroidery. However, nowadays, we can find the designs on shawls and sarees.

In the medieval times, the artists used real gold and silver for the design work.However now, they have shifted to the use of silver and golden colour threads instead. The detailed and extensive work takes up to a whole month.

4. The Amli Embroideries

Embroideries of Kashmir - Amli Embroidery — Image – Pride of Kashmir / Facebook

Amli embroidery is the multicolour embroidery type. It is the latest from among the embroideries of Kashmir. Seen mainly on Kani and Jamevar shawls, this embroidery has made a special place in the market with its vibrant look. The artist works on the irreversible patterns on the obverse side of the cloth.

The designs of Amli embroidery include far more variety than the other types. It expands its expertise to include motif designs depicting scenes, animals, human figures, flowers, etc.

5. The Kalamkari embroideries

Embroideries of Kashmir - Kalamkari Embroidery — Image – Kashmir art and mart / Facebook

It is yet another type of embroidery famous in Kashmir. This form of embroidery got its name from an amalgamation of two words- kalam, meaning pen and Kari, meaning work. This is also a colourful embroidery type. The colours used are all-natural dyes.

The artists tend to follow a strict 20 step methodology to reach the desired outcome. They use bamboo pens and natural dyes to paint over the shawls.

6. The Papier-mache Embroideries

Embroideries of Kashmir - Papier-mache Embroidery — Image – Dastkar / Facebook

Papier-mache embroidery is known as the bolder variant of the Sozni embroidery. The multicolour satin threads beautifully embroidered to form intrinsic designs and motifs are the speciality of this form of embroidery. To give the design a protruding look, the artists outline the designs in dark or black colour.

Kashmiri Embroideries in Modern Era

Kashmiri embroidery never left its spot as a fashion statement in the country and is famous in India and the rest of the world, especially in Europe. Even the high-end and eminent fashion designers worship its charm. Designers like Manish Malhotra and Bouuin have kept Kashmiri embroidery as their most precious fashion collections.

Embroidery is a treasured entity of Kashmir. Artists as well as locals preserved this for generations. The authentic embroideries of Kashmir have become a rare possession in the world today. I hope this article helped you step into the ecstatic world of Kashmiri embroideries.

Conclusion

Embroidery is a skilful art requires years of practice, dedication, and patience. The people of Kashmir have exceptionally preserved this art form for ages. Today, shawls and clothing items like kurtas, sarees, dupatta, etc., with Kashmiri embroidery, are in high demand. No other region in the entire world can match the quality of Kashmiri embroidery.

Traditional Dresses of Kashmir – Reflecting the Grandeur of Paradise on Earth

Somya Goel

October 11, 2021

If you are a fashion enthusiast, you must have come across the elegant embroidery and intricate designs of Kashmiri dresses. The costume of the region depicts the valley’s richness in culture and heritage. Owing to the cold climate, mostly wool or silk garments are famous among the Kashmiri population. The traditional dress of the Kashmiri people is vastly different from the formal dresses in other parts of the country.

Let us dig into the beautiful journey to explore the traditional dresses of Kashmir People:

History: A Driving Force in Determining the Culture

History of Traditional Dresses of Kashmir — Image – Wikimedia Commons

To understand the culture and tradition of a region, it is essential to understand its history. History is a driving force in determining a region’s present culture and customs. The Persians and Greeks had a stronghold in the area, which is presently a part of the Indian state of Kashmir. Thus, it became inevitable to have no Greek or Persian influence in the customary practices of Kashmir. Later, the Aryans, too, influenced the lifestyle of the people of the region.

According to Hiuen Tsang, a Chinese traveller, the dress of the Kashmiri people is similar to that of the Persians. The costumes made of white linen and endowed with leather doublet showcases the Persian influence in the region.

Even the embroidery designs of the clothes are a result of western influence. The incredible artwork and embroidery styles show the impact of more than one culture.

Traditional dress of Kashmiri Men

The ethnic Kashmiri apparel consists of a kurta and a salwar, worn by men. This Kurta-salwar dress worn by men resembles the Pathani costume. However, in the valley, it is usually called the Khan Dress. They top the look with a short waistcoat which they call Sadri.

The valley men also had long bell sleeve outer robes as early as their wardrobe in the old times. This was the Chogha, and it is no longer in trend in the valley. Similarly, the headgear, which was a pride of the male attire in the past, is no longer visible in the markets now. The people of Kashmir call this headgear a close relative of the western Indian turban.

The Muslim men still wear a turban on occasions like marriage. Although, this fashion resembles the Pathan attire rather than the traditional Kashmiri clothing. The ordinary dress of the men of Kashmir also includes Churidar Pajama. This loosely fitted trouser is very comfortable and warm.

Traditional Kashmiri Dress for Women

Women wear Salwar-kameez along with a dupatta, and they usually cover their head with a headscarf. Pheran, along with a Pashmina shawl, completes the look during the winter season. The Kashmiri attire for women is entirely different from the attire prevalent in India’s Central and southern India, and the dress is similar to the Afghan and Persian female dresses.

The traditional dress of Kashmiri women shows close resemblance with that of the Pashtun women. The pheran is unique to the Kashmiri tradition. The headscarf is an integral part of the attire. The Kashmiri people call it Kasaba or Taranga. There is a peculiar way in which the Muslim and Pandit women of Kashmir wear the Kasaba. They tie it on the hanging bonnet, making it fall up to the heels from behind.

More into the Traditional Dress of Kashmir

Pheran

Pheran is a long cloth that covers the entire body up until the knees. Even men and kids wear Pheran during winters, and it may or may not have a cap attached to the cloth. Kashmiri women wear Pheran even during other seasons as a sign of modesty. The material and fabric of the pheran determine the use. For summers, lighter fabric pherans are in preference.

The Kashmiri Pandit women usually tie the pheran on their waist with Lihung. Lihung is a folded material used as a belt.

Footwear

About five to six decades ago, the grass shoes, known as Pulharoo, was an essential part of the Kashmiri outfit. Khraw, the wooden sandals were also famous. However, in today’s time, they are no longer in use.

Shawl

The Kashmiri shawls are a pride of the valley. No one in the world can deny the beauty of the Shawlwork of Kashmir. The shawls are not only designed with beautiful embroidery but are warm as well. You cannot find a shawl as soft and warm as the Pashmina shawl, even if you set out on a world tour to find one.

Jewellery to Complete the Look!

Kashmiri People and their traditional Jewellery — Image- Ghousia jewellery point sahiwal / Facebook

The traditional dress is incomplete without mentioning the jewellery of the Crown of India, Kashmir. Jiggni and Tikka were the jewellery pieces that were extremely popular during the past however lost competition to the new ornament pieces.

Women usually wear beautiful earrings, anklets, and bangles as a part of the ornamentation in clothing. The married Kashmiri Pandit women wear Dejharoos which are similar to the central Indian mangal-sutras. The Dejharoos consist of two decorative gold pendants, identical to the Southern mangal-sutra designs.

The Muslim women of Kashmir usually sum up their look with abaya (or Kasaba), which forms a part of the regular attire. The unmarried Muslim women wear skullcaps decorated with gold thread embroidery, and silver jewellery is trendy among the Muslim women population of the region.

Representation of Kashmiri Culture in Bollywood

Are you a fan of Bollywood? Then there’s no chance you would have missed the famous Kashmiri dresses showcased in movies and songs. Bollywood is a big admirer of Kashmiri culture. There have been various instances where we can feel the love for Kashmiri culture. From the 1965 film Jab Jab Phool Khile to the 2018 movie Laila Majnu, Bollywood proved that the customs and traditions of the valley of Kashmir are much loved.

Sharmila Tagore’s outfit in the film Kashmir ki Kali left everyone in awe. In 2011 superhit, Rockstar, actress Nargis Fakri was beautifully dressed up as a Kashmiri bride, with a beautiful Kalpush (headgear) and embroidered Lehenga.

Conclusion

Kashmir is a beautiful place, and so is the Culture of Kashmir. The people of Kashmir retain the cultural and traditional beauty of the region by maintaining and adoring the formal dresses of the area.

Some other costumes and garments, such as suthan and kurta, form a part of the unisex fashion of Kashmir. Many garment pieces have also lost their position in the hoard of the new fashion trends. However, many have also evolved with time. Today, one may find people wearing attires showing a fusion of the traditional and the modern dresses.

Traditional Kashmiri Food – Soulful Delicacies from Mesmerising Mountains

Eesani Dey

October 9, 2021

Kashmir is a place of many wonders. The beautiful landscapes, beautiful handicrafts, unique horticulture, age-old traditions, and much more comprise the enthralling beauty of Kashmir. In most cultures, food also holds an essential part in adding to the cultural assets. Kashmir is not just comforting to the eyes but also offers to fill one’s tummy with varied choices of delicacies. The traditional Kashmiri foods spoil people with their soulful taste that makes people crave more. The cold of the place gets a proper balance with its hot and hearty foods.

Today we will find out some of the exciting traditional Kashmiri foods that keep the hearts and stomachs of people happy. Some of these foods do not even require any unique ingredients, but the taste is heavenly.

1. Kahwa

Traditional Kashmiri Food, Kahwa — Image – Wikimedia Commons

Kahwa is a primitive beverage of Kashmir, and the mere mention of the name of Kahwa reminds people of the hills and beauty of Kashmir. Every traditional Kashmiri household welcomes its guests with a warm cup of Kahwa.

Kahwa is a unique take on green tea. The Kashmiris cannot imagine their lives without a warm cup of Kahwa. The drink is straightforward to prepare, and Kashmiri green tea leaves, cardamom and cinnamon powder, saffron, and crudely ground almonds are Kahwa’s essential ingredients. The glass has revitalizing qualities with its tasteful ingredients. Kashmiri gatherings are incomplete without a warm cup of Kahwa.

2. Mutton Rogan Josh

Traditional Kashmiri Food, Mutton Rogan Josh — Image – Wikimedia Commons

Rogan Josh is hands down one of the most traditional foods of Kashmir. The rich colour and succulent meat with aromatic spices are a heavenly combination for all meat lovers.

Mutton Rogan Josh is a fantastic Kashmiri cuisine recipe. The Mughals introduced it, and Kashmir made it one of its signature dishes. The formula is also straightforward and is healthy, unlike what the name suggests. Everyday ingredients like onion, yoghurt, and red chillies form the curry. The tender pieces of lamb absorb the flavour and provide the sensation with every bite. The combination of mutton rogan josh with a steaming bowl of rice or naan will be a perfect traditional Kashmiri food experience.

3. Dum Olav

Traditional Kashmiri Food, Dum aloo — Image – Wikimedia Commons

Dum Olav, also known as Dum Aloo, is a prevalent dish across India. It becomes a traditional Kashmiri delicacy with unique layers of spices and herbs that heighten the taste.

Potatoes receive an equal amount of love from both vegetarians and non-vegetarians. The king of vegetables gets a particular take when the Kashmiris prepare it with their unique touch. Ginger powder, fennel, yoghurt, and some other spices come together to form this aromatic dish. The hearty taste of Dum Olav is a top choice for every foodie. Combine it with naan or chapati and enjoy the all-time favourite potatoes in the traditional Kashmiri style.

4. Yakhni, or Yogurt Lamb Curry

Traditional Kashmiri Food, Yakhni, or Yogurt Lamb Curry — Image – Wikimedia Commons

Yakhni is another favourite dish for all meat lovers. This is another signature traditional Kashmiri food, and the heavenly taste of the rich gravy bewitches the heart and soul of everyone who tries it.

Yakhni is a famous yoghurt-based dish. The extra zing comes from the addition of the flavoured mawal flower. Other elements that form this beautiful concoction are onion paste, dry mint leaves, black and green cardamoms, and aromatic fennel seeds. Yakhni is an authentic Kashmiri dish, and the dish is a part of the age-old traditional dishes.

5. Kashmiri Saag

Traditional Kashmiri Food, Saag — Image – Zaika Dilli 6

Saag is a well-known leafy vegetable across the nation. Each state has a distinctive style of preparing the dish, and Kashmiris also have come up with a tasty yet straightforward saag preparation.

Kashmiri saag is a healthy yet tasty dish that offers a break from the heavy seasonings of other dishes. Spinach is the main component, and mixing some simple but flavourful ingredients makes saag a must-try traditional Kashmiri food. Even people who are not fond of vegetables must try this once and decide that healthy can be tasty too.

6. Modur Pulav

Traditional Kashmiri Food, Modur Pulav — Image – Aafia Khan/ Facebook

Modur Pulav is an authentic Kashmiri take on pulao. The dish tastes sweet, making it a perfect accompaniment for any spicy meat or vegetable side dish.

Modur pulav has a very distinctive taste. Saffron, green cardamom, cashews, almonds, milk, ghee, and other heavenly ingredients form modur pulav. Saffron is indigenous to Kashmir, and the usage of saffron is common in many dishes. The aroma and taste of modur pulav heighten with the use of saffron. The hearty taste of the sweet rice dish will make one realize the rich tradition of Kashmiri dishes.

7. Goshtaba

Kashmiri-Food-Goshtaba — Image – UnXplore/Facebook

Goshtaba is another traditional Kashmiri food passed on from generations, and the dish is popular because of its royal taste.

It is made on extraordinary occasions. It is a minced mutton ball preparation in a yoghurt and other spices gravy. The rich taste of the dish is said to make you feel like royalty, for the dish is apt for serving to a king himself. To truly taste traditional Kashmiri food, goshtaba is a must-try.

8. Paneer Chaman

Traditional Kashmiri Food, Paneer Chaman — Image – Madhvi’s Food Galli

Paneer Chaman is an authentic Kashmiri food that holds the power to become a favourite even for non-vegetarians. The rich preparation of paneer Chaman tingles the taste buds with every spoonful.

Paneer Chaman is made by simmering the paneer in milk along with the flavours of cardamom. The rich and creamy result of the delicacy will make visitors crave more. A hot bowl of paneer Chaman with naan or a steaming plate of rice will balance the cold with its warm flavours.

9. Nadru Yakhni

Traditional Kashmiri Food, Nadru Yakhni — Image – Asha Shukla / Facebook

Nadru Yakhni is an exceptional vegetarian dish of Kashmir. Lotus stems are the highlight of the dish, which the locals cook in a delicious gravy.

The crunchy lotus stems receive a tasty makeover in nadru yakhni. The locals use yoghurt, gingers, and bay leaves to make the gravy. Visitors can enjoy sipping the rich sauce and bite on the lotus stems to get an extra crunch. The taste of a warm bowl of nadru yakhni will stay with visitors for a long time.

10. Sheermal

Traditional Kashmiri Food, Sheermal — Image – Nadir Hashmi/Flickr

Sheermal is another signature dish of Kashmir. When we think of flatbreads, we imagine them as the ideal accompaniment for a fantastic side dish of meat or vegetables. But for the Kashmiris, flatbreads can become a meal in itself.

Sheermal is a sweet take on flatbreads. The texture of the dish is crispy on the outside and melts in your mouth on the inside. The sweetness of sheermal is more enjoyable with the locals. To end your perfect traditional Kashmiri platter on a sweet note, do not forget to try this unique flatbread.

The dishes of traditional Kashmiri food will be more enjoyable with the company of the mesmerizing mountains in view. The taste of all the above dishes will surely touch your heart and make you want more. For those who would like to try out the dishes themselves, make sure to note down the recipes from the locals on your visit to Kashmir. Apart from the picturesque nature, the dishes can surely recreate the dishes when they come back from their trips.

Art and Adaptation: Keeping up the Tradition in the Times of Climate Change

Asit Bhagat

October 6, 2021

Art-and-Adaptation-01 — Umesh Badere drying the idol of the antagonist figure, Mahishasura using a flamethrower

A few years ago, when the monsoon would start retreating, the festival of Navratri would be in the offing. In the days leading to Durga installation artists would strenuously get occupied in churning out beautiful idols, and meeting stringent deadlines would be their only major concern. But with changing times, artists have now started encountering new challenges – unimagined and unexpected – that seem to have begun impacting their work adversely.

Managing physical and mental stress is not new for sculptors, especially when they are working for a special event like Durga Utsav. They intermingle with clay and colours to generate vibrant and dynamic features and they know they cannot undo their work.

In the recent past, however, sculptors have been progressively finding their diligent efforts being intercepted by a new element – the effects of the changing climate.

Umesh Badere, a young sculptor, would usually finish his assignments on time, but for the last three years, things have changed for him. Compelled by extended monsoon, the artist, now, has to spend more time with the flamethrower to dry the idols. Incidentally, Umesh loses time and remains behind the schedule.

It’s more than twenty-two years now that Umesh has been modeling clay into beautiful idols and household articles. And this journey hasn’t been smooth.

“When I lost my father to cancer, I was only fifty percent efficient at sculpting,” narrated the artist while describing how he overcame the problems that came his way.

While the sculptor has patiently dealt with the personal challenges, dealing with the climate change-induced challenges has become a true test for him. “You can find out ways for your problems, but changing seasonal patterns is an external issue, something beyond your control,” Umesh said.

Art-and-Adaptation-02 — Nilesh Deshmukh can be seen applying paint

“We can start Ganesha sculpting work in advance, but when it comes to Durga Devi, we can engage full-time only after Ganesha installation,” the sculptor explained. However, it’s not the time constraints that bother the artist, rather the changing natural phenomenon. “While operating in a time-constrained environment is common for us, now we have to also adjust to the whim of the climate.”

Right from making coal heaters to using gas guns, Umesh now deploys every possible means to accelerate idol drying. “An extended rainy season adds new complexities,” remarked the artist, while describing how persistent dampness now forces sculptors to resort to artificial drying measures. “Earlier, during monsoon, in between, we would have good spells of sunny days, but now, that is something more uncommon.”

However, Umesh is not alone in experiencing such challenges as caused by the ongoing climatic changes. Nilesh Deshmukh, another artist, narrated his own experience.

Deshmukh’s Saptshrungi art today stands unique for its elemental perfection and beauty, and artistic creativity. Instrumental in giving Yavatmal Durga Utsav wider publicity, it’s one-of-a-kind in the entire Maharashtra state. While Saptshrugi art has been an evolution in itself, as the artist described, extreme downpour is now turning out to be an adversary for its making.

In clay sculpting, the hands are made using wires. First, the wires are thrust through the rustic straw framework. They are then bent to form elbows, and adjusted as required. While the very process is followed for Saptashrungi too, nine hands emerging from proximity, on either side, makes it slightly tricky. “The challenge here is that after we apply multiple layers of clay, the hands do not dry easily,” the bespectacled sculptor noted.

Art-and-Adaptation-03 — Extended wet spells didn’t allow him to finish things in time, and so he had to visit the pandal for fine-touching

“Long spells of rainfall and absence of sunlight keep the clay wet for long, which causes significant delays,” explained Deshmukh. The quadragenarian artist has installed powerful halogen lamps in his atelier to expose the idols to the lamps’ heat. “I have tried using blowers, but found them inefficient to dry the clay from inside, as only the external layer acquires toughness.” The artist further said that since sculpting involves managing multiple tasks concurrently, not each time he can engage his hands in drying.

In their attempts to counter the challenges, are the artists trying to adapt to the enforced changes? Perhaps they have started exploring options before finding concrete solutions.

Like Umesh and Deshmukh, there are many in the community of artists and craftsmen, who have started witnessing the impact of the changing climate. “This year rainwater gushed into our workshops and caused irreparable damages,” grieved a sculptor who suffered losses.

These experiences seem to be corroborating the projection that climate change is going to introduce new community-specific challenges. Only that art is one subtle area that doesn’t catch direct attention. Maybe these beginnings hint at potential disasters. As such, to prevent climate change from hitting vulnerable communities, impact assessment becomes imperative.

“The occurrence of heatwaves and floods is on the rise, and these extreme events have already started impacting different communities in different manners,” explained Prof. N. H. Ravindranath, a senior scientist at the Centre for Sustainable Technologies, IISC, Bangalore. “Local and contextual adaptation strategies will help communities to better deal with and tackle the impositions of climate change,” the scientist further added.

For community-based adaptation strategies to work effectively, the role of public agencies becomes important. To evolve strong frameworks, they will have to coordinate with communities. Finally, it’s the collaborative effort that’s going to ensure a sustainably effective adaptation strategy.

Rajasthani Fabrics – Made with Love by Trembling Hands

Somya Goel

October 6, 2021

Rajasthani-fabric-Arts — Image – Carol mitchell/Flickr

Rajasthan is the heaven of cultural and traditional mingles. Textile is one of those cultural entities that make Rajasthan stand out and shine among others. The state has a multitude of local textile styles.

There is not one but many regional fabric styles spread across the state. India’s textile industry is one of the largest and the oldest industries in India. The traces of textile weaving were found in Vedic texts and archaeological finds from the Harappan civilization.

The Rajasthani fabrics industry uses cotton, silk, and wool as the fabric canvas to produce and design the marvellous fabric styles. The Rajasthani textile got the ‘Heartland of Hand Block Printing’ title.

Bandhini Fabric

Rajasthani Fabrics, Bandhini — Image – maadhuri / Pxhere

The Rajasthani precise design cloth work is famous in the whole world. The Bandhini textile is famous for such work. Historical records suggest that the earliest examples of Bandhani date back to 4000 BCE. The Bandhani textile got its name because of the knots (Bandhan) on the cloth during dying. The weavers intentionally leave the knot even after dying the fabric, which has become a Bandhani Textile symbol.

This print is in practice in Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh as well. This fine textile work is in demand in the entire country. The designs include red, yellow, saffron, maroon, and black motifs.

The symbolism attached to this is multitude and goes hand in hand with the colour depiction. For instance, a red cloth designed with Bandhani printing increases the beauty of a Hindu Bride. Another example might be the representation of maternity via yellow Bandhani cloth.

Chandrakala, BavanBaug and Shikari are some of the patterns on the Bandhani fabric. The Khatri community is the parent community that is responsible for the development of the Bandhani style.

Leheriya Fabric

Rajasthani-fabric-Leheriya — Image – Pintrest

The term ‘Leheriya’ derives its origin from the work ‘Leher’, meaning wave. The name accurately describes the textile. The Leheriya work focuses on clear and sober pattern designs created on thin cotton or silk cloth. This is predominantly famous for turbans, saris, and chunnis.

The Leheria turbans were a fashion statement in the 19th-20th centuries. Every one out of five men in India wore a Leheria turban to show off their fashion sense. The Leheria textile industry got fame for its zig-zag patterns and vibrant colour palette. The print is still in practice in Nathwada, Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur.

Bagru Fabric

Rajasthani Fabrics, Bagru — Image – Wikimedia Commons

The artists who work on the Bagru textile focus more on floral design printing, and they use natural vegetable colours for printing. The Chippa community of Rajasthan extensively practises the Bagru print.

The Bagra print originally belongs to the textile industry of Gujarat. It travelled with the chippa community when they migrated to the deserts of Rajasthan from the Gujarati mainlands in the 17th century. The weavers work on Indigo or blue-coloured cloth stylization to enhance the beauty of the product.

Seyali Bagru is a type of Bagru print that involves the provocative use of yellow ochre and black hues.

Kota Doria Fabric

Rajasthani-fabric-Kota-Doria — Image – Wikimedia

Kota Doria, as the name suggests, is a textile industry based in Kota. The checkered square patterns are the speciality of the Kota Doria Cloth. The pure cotton or silk fabric is extremely lightweight, and the use of check patterns is a unique lucrative method.

The style has roots in the textile style of Mysore. A Mughal army general, Rao Kishore, enlisted and brought some weavers from Mysore, and this became the beginning of the style in Rajasthan. For this reason, Kota Doria was called Kota Masuria in its initial days. The weavers often apply a mixture of onion juice and rice paste while weaving the cloth, and the application of this mixture ensures cloth durability.

Kaithloon, present near Kota, is insanely famous for Kota Doria sarees. Although machines are in predominant use today, small handloom weavers got employment due to this textile industry. Not to mention, the emotional strings attached to the handmade Kota Doria is absent in the machine-made sarees.

Barmeri Prints

The geometric prints of the cloth make the Barmeri textile unique. The Barmeri has to offer a lot that does not resemble the typical Rajasthani textile. For instance, unlike the light floral colours used in most textile works, Barmeri is famous for its dark shades. Based in the Thar desert, the locals prefer darker colour tones as dark shades are cooler.

This famous textile of Rajasthan belongs to the Sindh region, and these prints originally belong to the Sindhi Muslims. However, the art spread across the country along with cultural and trend shifts.

The Barmeri print often dwells on topics or themes like plants, animals, birds, and nature. The bright and vibrant dyes used involve primary colours like red, yellow, indigo, etc.

Sanganeri Fabric

Rajasthani Fabrics, Sanganeri — Image- iTokri.com / Facebook

Sangneri is one of the most famous textiles in Rajasthan. ‘A hub of block and screen printing in Rajasthan’ is what we call it. The illustrious folk patterns on the white cotton give it a traditional essence. Sangneri is famous for making tablecloths, home linens, bed covers, etc. The folk motifs printed on the cloth also have black outlines which enhance the beauty of the fabric. Figures and flower patterns use red dye to attract customers.

The Sangneri bloomed with the British invasion of India, and the European settlers exported large quantities of Sangneri to Europe. Sangner in the pink city, Jaipur, is the originator of the style. Wooden block printing is the core method in use, and Calico printing is the other name by which we often call the Sanganeri block prints.

The most famous motifs include that of lotus flower, roses, sunflower, lily, etc. The initial weavers used natural dyes only. However, chemical colours or dyes are no surprise wing to the stark rise in demand and less staff.

Mothara Print

An interesting fact about the Mothara Print- the Mothara print got its name from the Moth Dal. The mothara print is an ever-flourishing tie and dye technique of Rajasthan with checkered patterns printed on the cloth with interspersed undyed areas.

Rajasthan is among the best places to visit in the entire world. The earthly yet world-class cultural embellishments are exclusive to Rajasthan. As a traveller, it is virtually impossible to ‘keep your hands to yourself’ when you see alluring textile and handlooms everywhere you go. The modern-day textile industry mainly relies on machines. However, the actual textile of Rajasthan lies preserved in the handmade textile only. Although the hands of the weaver tremble, the essence and beauty of the fabric are still intact.

Handpicked Best Websites to Buy Indian Paintings Online

Somya Goel

October 5, 2021

Art soothes one’s soul and mind. It gives voice to the inner feelings of the artist as well as the admirer. A person never finds a painting. It’s an artwork that finds the rightful admirer. The Indian Art market has seen the hype over the last few years. In the era of social media, where everyone lives in their virtual den, art has made a special place in people’s hearts, acting as a medium to express emotions for the artist and admirers. If you are an admirer of art, check this out.

Here is a list of the best websites to buy Indian Paintings online.

1. AstaGuru

AstaGuru is more than an auction house — it is a platform where rarity meets legacy. Since 2008, the house has connected collectors across the world with the most significant works of Modern and Contemporary Indian Art, offering not just paintings, but stories that transcend time.

Its auctions bring together defining voices from masters such as M.F. Husain, Tyeb Mehta, S.H. Raza, F.N. Souza and Amrita Sher-Gil, to international icons including Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí Marc Chagall & so on. Each work offered stands as a cultural milestone, a testament to the vision of its creator, and an invitation for collectors to become custodians of heritage.

Through its seamless digital platform and mobile app, AstaGuru makes the world of rare artaccessible to collectors everywhere; while ensuring trust, expertise and excellence remain at the heart of every interaction. For those who seek treasures that endure, AstaGuru is the place where legacies are built and generations are connected.

Website: https://www.astaguru.com

2. Fizdi

Fizdi is bliss for art lovers. Here, you can find everything from Handmade, original paintings with the sign, Indian Theme paintings, digital art, canvas paintings, oil paintings, acrylic paintings, and watercolour paintings. The best part about this online Indian art store is that it is pocket-friendly. One can find a perfect artwork for their lobby wall within an affordable range of ₹5000 to ₹15000. Moreover, the art prints are available at costs as low as r ₹450.

The online store is famous the world over, getting orders from overseas as well. There are more than 60 themes and 40000+ curated artworks depicting varied themes. And helps the customers choose the best painting for them by allowing them to search by size and colour. Extending the customer service, they also provide an option to frame the picture. Running since 2009, Fizdi has served more than 150000 customers.

Website: https://www.fizdi.com/

3. Artsera

Artsera is the second site on our list which has an exquisite range of artworks sourced from reputed and famous artists. One can buy Indian paintings, drawings, limited edition prints, sculptures, pichwais, rugs, artefacts, curios, and many more at this store.

Artsera has been an active online store since 2015, founded by Ms. Lisa Jain and Mr. Varun Backliwal. It provides worldwide, personalized services. Keeping customers as the top priority, Artsera dwells in the six core promises, uncompromised quality, Fair pricing, buyer protection, impeccable curation, meticulous sourcing, and exceptional service. If you are a lover of art, you have to check this out!

Website: https://www.artisera.com/

4. YouArt

“Art is for everyone”, says the tagline of India’s newly launched online art gallery aptly named You.Art which went live on 15^th April 2022, the World Art Day.

The art portal promises to be unlike any other. The model is unique, promoting a fresh curation of 100 new artworks, every 100 days. The idea behind this innovative model is – to keep the website active and interesting for the customers to come back looking for more and new. And also to provide a platform for a larger network of promising Indian Contemporary Artists to showcase their art ranging from Abstract, Landscape, Seascape, Urbanscape, Figurative to Spiritual.

To emphasise and bring awareness about the significance of Authenticity & Provenance, You.Art is one of the first Indian galleries to be associated with Tagsmart, an internationally reputed digital records organisation.

The entire backend process – certifying the originality of the art work by the artist, its valuation, ease of payment and doorstep delivery have all been meticulously streamlined.

To own an authentic original painting from the comfort of your home. logon to www.you.art

5. Artoreal

Artoreal is a treasure house of paintings, photographs and digital art of various genres. From abstract to portraits, and heritage to landscape, the artworks range across a variety of categories to choose from. Artoreal believes in providing a platform to emerging artists and photographers and hobbyists along with renowned professionals. Artoreal is equipped with state-of-the art AR (Augmented Realty), giving you an immersive experience by letting you visualize how the art will look on your wall. In addition to the array of artwork, the site also offers exciting options in printing media and framing for photographs and digital paintings. Artoreal is a one-stop selection-to-wall site that delivers a delightful experience in buying as well as selling.

Website: www.artoreal.com

6. ArtZolo

ArtZolo has one of the best collections of Indian Art. One can find everything here, from ancient Indian heritage art forms to Indian contemporary art. If ancient art fascinates you, you might find your soulmate in the form of Artzolo. It has an extensive array of Indian skills, from murals to sculptures.

ArtZolo creates a virtual marketplace for artists and art admirers. You can find the work of experienced and famous artists and the nouvelle artists with spectacular ideas and skills. This online art gallery has space for artworks ranging from sculptures, digital prints, original art, craft, home décor to photography. You can find artwork for the price as affordable as ₹1000 to as expensive as ₹5,00,000+. One can filter the options by specifying medium, subject, type, as well as theme.

Website: https://www.artzolo.com/

7. MyIndianArt

MyIndianArt is among the most famous online art galleries in India. Operating on the artworks of emerging and upcoming Indian artists, it provides a wide range of art styles. However, the main paintings available in the gallery belong to contemporary and modern art.

MyIndianArt also organizes big art shows co-branded by famous corporations like Seagram, Taj Bengal, ABN Amro Bank, and HSBC. The paintings available range from oil paintings to charcoal painting to other mediums like watercolour and acrylic. In contrast, the diverse subject range includes Abstract Paintings, Landscape Paintings, Portrait Paintings, Still Life Paintings, Figurative Paintings, and Mythological Paintings.

It is one of the best options for first-time buyers as it provides an easy and user-friendly search option. Here, the customer can adjust Price, Size, Format, and Style as per preferences. A part of the sales is donated to Netaji Cancer Research Institute, Kolkata (NCRI), for a good cause.

Website: https://www.myindianart.com/

8. BestOfBharat

BestOfBharat is an Indian site to recognize and popularise Indian Art and talent. The site provides an exotic collection of aesthetic paintings for your home décor. The modern art styles, vintage illustrations, botanical images, line art, and other themes make it a hotspot for aesthetic art admirers.

It has a long list of beautiful, quality prints and, more importantly, trending paintings. The site suits well to the ones who wish to get the Wester-Indian house walls within affordable ranges.

Website: https://bestofbharat.com/

9. Saatchi Art

Saatchi Art is another virtual Indian art gallery with an out-bursting range of modern and contemporary artworks. It has over 765,598 original Fine Art paintings. The aim of this gallery makes it unique and stand out from the rest. Since 2010, Saatchi Art aims to establish a platform for upcoming artists to show contemporary European Art in India and contemporary Indian art abroad. Hence, dissolving the gap between the modern skills. It is a New Delhi-based art gallery with the best artworks from prominent and highly skilled artists worldwide.

Website: https://www.saatchiart.com/

10. IndiGalleria

IndiGalleria is one of the most prominent online art galleries in India. It claims a 100% guaranteed range of authentic artworks at a wide range of prices. It connects skilled and talented artists and customers all over the country.

Most of the artwork in the gallery comprises original handmade paintings. The medium and style vary from abstract oil paintings, canvas acrylic, Madhubani, figurative paintings, and sculptors.

Website: https://www.indigalleria.com/

11. Kulture Shop

Founded with the sober aim of redefining Indian visual identity, Kuture Shop is a 21st-century virtual shop promoting the Indian Culture Wave at a global level. The gallery focuses on graphic artists working on varied subjects and themes. Other than original paintings, you can find printed T-shirts, tote bags, pouches, cushion covers, mugs, coasters, notebooks, and printed paintings as well. All of the products are in Indian art style, designed by young Indian artists.

Site: https://www.kultureshop.in/

12. Gallerist

Gallerist provides a powerful platform for artists to show their talent and to customers like us to promote and support them. The site flashes a hot bag of sheer skills and aesthetics. The paintings stretch from familiar landscape paintings to mind-blogging religious paintings. One can filter the results using the category and surface of the image. The customers get to choose their favourite from a list of thousands of illustrations of each class. The affordable prices, great reviews, and surreal artworks make it an excellent option for you to buy Indian Art from.

Website: https://www.gallerist.in/

13. Eikowa

If you are an art enthusiast and enjoy buying paintings, you would have heard of this site. The product list includes artworks of renowned and loved artists from all over the country. You can find the mesmerizing work of famous artists like G Subramanian, Amit Bhar, Vinita Karim, and Jagannath Paul on this site. There are 12 main art styles to explore, ranging from prices under ₹50,000 to above Rupees five lakhs.

Website: https://www.eikowa.com/

The art market has been ever-growing since the old times. A good artwork decorates not only your house wall but also your inner soul. Indian Art is spectacular, with various art styles and enriching themes. This vast collection of Indian Art from all over the country would satisfy your passion for Indian Art.

Kumbhalgarh Wonders- From Birthplace of Maharana Pratap to Great wall of India

Somya Goel

September 29, 2021

There are 84 forts in the historic city of Mewar. Kumbhalgarh fort is one of them. These fortresses were the sign of prestige and power of the Rajputana. The 15th-century king of Mewar pushed the boundaries of the rule from Ranthambore in Rajasthan to Gwalior in Central India (present-day Madhya Pradesh). The construction of 32 defensive forts accompanied this expansion. Kumbhalgarh fort was one of these.

Geography of the Kumbhalgarh Fort

Kumbhalgarh Wonders- From Birthplace of Maharana Pratap to Great wall of India - History and the Story of the Fort — Image – tsaiproject / Flickr

Located in the Aravalli range in Mewar, the fort stands on the hilltop, 3,600 ft above sea level. The view from up there would be captivating, right?

The fort escalates the prestige of the Rajsamand district. Moreover, it is located close to the tourist city Udaipur and hence attracts many tourists and visitors. The presence of 13 mountain peaks surrounding the fort makes it one of the most impregnable fortresses in the country. The Banas River beside the defence makes the scene from the citadel ethereal.

History of the Kumbhalgarh Fort

The construction of the great fort began in 1443, under Rana Kumbha, the Maharana of Kumbhalgarh. The inordinate marvel took fifteen years to complete. The wall would collapse again and again, making the initial efforts to construct the wall drown in vain. Finally, the king offered a human head to the god to continue the further, uninterrupted construction. The locals extend this story till date. The place where the volunteer’s headless body fell became the beginning location. The main gate stands at that place. According to the records, the spot finalized by the king is 7 kilometres away from the actual location.

Foundation laid in the Mauryan era

The first attempts to capture the fort spot dates back to the 2nd or 3rd century. However, the history preceding the incident is unclear. The historians are in a murk about what happened to the region from the 3rd century to the 15th century. The Mauryans were probably not successful in turning the area into a defensive fort zone. Or maybe they just wanted to construct temples in the region as backed by historians; Samprati king was peaceful and kind.

Renovation in the 19th century

The combined forces of Mughal Emperor Akbar, Raja Man Singh of Amber, and Marwar’s Raja Udai Singh tried to destroy the fort. Renovation became inevitable owing to the destruction caused by the invasion attack. The fort’s renovation began in the 19th century.

The fort holds utmost importance in the state and is the second most significant fort. First is the fort of Chittorgarh.

Architectural Wonders of Kumbhalgarh

The frontal defensive wall is the most bodacious and eye-catching attribute of the fort. It is approximately 15 meters wide and 36000 meters long, running along the hilly terrain of the Aravalli range. It is often said that the broad walls have space to accommodate seven to eight horses.

The snake-like zig-zag long wall is the main focus of this monument. The continuous wall going up to the hilltop seems to touch the sky and attempt to reach heaven. The staircase depicts the congested architectural style. The sharp turns served in slowing down the enemy forces. The strategic spots present along the wall give a clear view of the Thar desert. Despite being a magnificent and grand fort, it is not visible from a distance beyond 500 meters. This feature helped the fort remain hidden from the enemy forces. This architectural style reveals the main agenda of constructing the Qila. The interiors of this double-storey fort include greenery patches, terraces, open courtyards, rainwater reservoirs, and big chambers, and the Kumbha Mahal (a quarter of the king).

Later in 1578, the general of the Mughal emperor Akbar built the Badshahi Bavdi in the fort. This stepped tank was constructed to provide drinking water to the fighting army troops.

The Seven Gates of Kumbhalgarh

Hanuman Pol is the main gate of the fortress. The holy shrine near the gate commemorates the sacrifice of the man who volunteered to give his life for contriving the fort. There are seven gates of the fort- the Arait Polis is the first grand gate, followed by Hulla Pol, Hanuman Pol, Ram Pol, Bhairava Pol, Paghra Pol, Top-Khana Pol, and Nimboo Pol. Rana Fateh Singh built a small palace on the top of the fort, called ‘Badal Mahal’. This palace was a part of the renovation plan of the 19th century.

Temples in Kumbhalgarh

There are 360 temples in the complex of Kumbhalgarh fort. 60 temples out of these are Hindu temples, while the rest are dedicated to Jainism. The construction of these temples took 22 centuries.

The grandson of Ashoka the Great of the Mauryan empire, King Samprati, also contributed to his grandfather’s social aspects. The 224 BCE ruler paid particular attention to the propagation of Jainism in West and South India. Many Jain temples were built around the country under his reign. 300 Jain temples in the Kumbhalgarh fort are a part of King Samprati’s efforts.

Birthplace of Maharana Pratap

The birth of the brave warrior Maharana Pratap is one of the biggest glories of the fort. The birth of Mewar Naresh Maharana Pratap in 1540 added to the significance of the fort in ancient and present times. His father, Maharana Udai Singh II, ruled from the Palace in Chittorgarh; however, Rani Jeevant Kanwar came to the Kumbhalgarh Qila to give birth to her eldest son. The title of Crown Prince was given to Maharana Pratap right after his birth and became the 54th destined ruler in the line of Sisodiya Rajputs.

The Kumbhalgarh fort holds substantial importance as it marks the point of severance between the historic cities of Mewar and Marwar.

Great Wall of India

Why envy the Great Wall of China when you have your own! The Great Wall of India is the second-largest wall in the world. It is second only to the Great Wall of China, which took approximately 200 years, in contrast to the Great Wall of India, which took about 15 years to complete. The name by which we know our very own ‘Great Wall of India’ is ‘Kumbhalgarh fort’. The fort takes its place among the most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites owing to its 36 kilometres long wall.

Conclusion

The Kumbhalgarh Qila is a wonder of ancient times. It has a long history varying from Mauryas to the reign of Rajputs to the attempts of invasion of Mughals. The fort stood for the sole purpose of defence. It is evident from the five canons in the top khana. Although, today, it has turned into a historical site and museum. People visit the fort to look at its grandeur and revolutionary designs.

Bihar Culture – Exploring the Rich Tradition, Art, Music, Food and Festivals

Eesani Dey

September 27, 2021

Bihar and its cultural significance are as old as civilization itself. Bihar was once a hub of the richest and the most diverse ethnicity. The epics Ramayana and Mahabharata, and Buddhism, all have had a crucial role in building the rich culture of Bihar. Some great mythological characters are in deep association with the state.

At present, Bihar’s tradition has influences from its neighbouring states. With Nepal, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal in the North, South, West, and East, respectively, a cultural mix is seen in the state.

Here we will look into Bihar’s rich cultural history, tradition, cuisines, and everything that makes the state stand out uniquely.

History of Bihar

Bihar Culture - History — Image – Wikimedia Commons

Mythology

Hindu mythology has a dominant role in enriching Bihar with ancient tradition. Both the epics, Ramayana and Mahabharata, have a strong connection with the state.

Maharishi Valmiki, the writer of the epic Ramayana, lived in Bihar. Sita, the wife of Lord Ram, was born in Mithila, a village in Bihar.
From Mahabharata, Karna-the great warrior, also has a connection with the state. King Karna was the ruler of Anga. Anga is located in present-day Bihar.

Bihar has a very vibrant history. Ancient mythology and the rise of Buddhism are important events that have taken place in the land of Bihar. Even the record from our school textbooks has important episodes of dynasties ruling over Bihar.

Mauryan Dynasty

The empire of the Great King Ashoka of the Mauryan Dynasty was spread across South India. The capital of this great empire was Pataliputra, present-day Patna in Bihar.

Under the rule of Chandragupta Maurya and Emperor Ashoka, Bihar housed some of the greatest Buddhist monasteries. The state is an architectural wonder because of the pillars and inscriptions of Ashoka.

Buddhism

Bihar Culture - Buddism — Image – Pixahive

Bihar takes pride in being the land where Buddhism got one of its significant historical moments. Gautam Buddha attained his enlightenment in Bodh Gaya. The Bodhi Tree under which Buddha found nirvana is now a spiritual shrine for Buddhists. The Mahabodhi Tree stands tall in the middle of the Mahabodhi Temple Complex in Bodh Gaya, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Architecture of Bihar

In the historic period, Bihar’s Neolithic and other prehistoric men passed down their art tradition to their descendants. Many architectural remains still survive to bridge the gap between prehistoric men and their historic successors.

The majority of the early Mauryan buildings and pieces of art were made of wood. The ancient city of Pataliputra’s pillars and walls were all made of wood and displayed excellent craftsmanship.

In Pre-Ashokan Magadha, literacy sources, Sanskrit and Pali, provide undeniable evidence of the presence of a highly developed art other than sculptures.

Architecture-of-Bihar-Mauryan-Style — Image – Deepgoswami/Flickr

When Megasthenes came to visit the capital, Chandragupta’s palace was in all of its Mauryan glory. A set of hypostyle halls with wood pillars encircled by vines embossed in gold and adorned with gold and silver motifs of birds and greenery. The city of Pataliputra, which was built along the Ganges’ banks, was encircled by a magnificent timber wall with apertures for archers and was ringed on all sides by a wide and deep moat. Bastions with over 500 towers were erected at regular intervals. There were a total of sixty-four gates that allowed people to access. During the Mauryan period, great stone monuments began to develop in Bihar, signalling a shift in architectural patterns.

Suggested Read – The Historical Ruins of Nalanda

The ancient Magadhans were aware of the utilisation of burnt bricks and lime ‘Sudha’. Pillars, windows, and stairwells were all included in the construction of the houses. There are several references to towns, palaces, and pavilions throughout the ‘Jatakas.’ A wall surrounded fortified cities and palaces, with entrances, watchtowers, and ditches on the outside. Different classes of people occupied specific quarters made aside for them in the cities, which had well-planned streets. Human figures, creepers, flowers, animals and birds, mountains and the sea were frequently depicted in paintings on the walls of the structures.

Architecture-of-Bihar-Sanchi-Stupa — Image – Patrik M. Loeff/Flickr

The Stupa was an essential element of Mauryan Bihar’s architectural achievement. The word stupa simply means ‘something raised,’ and it is a Buddhist architectural term for a mount carrying Buddha’s relics. Ashoka was the architect of towns, hard rock Stupas and Viharas, rock-art Chaitya-halls, palaces, and stone pillars. The pillars are considered the pinnacle of Mauryan art. Magadha’s masons carved natural forms of animals and plants into stone, as well as reducing and shaping bigger quantities of granite into pillars.

Tradition & Culture of Bihar

Bihar Culture - Tradition — Image – Wikimedia Commons

Bihar’s history is very vast and will require an entire article to give every detail. Taking a cue from the brief history above, let us now look into Bihar’s tradition.

Hinduism and Buddhism seem to have a stronghold in the state. But Bihar also hones influence of Jainism, Sikhism, Islam, and Christian traditions.

In present-day Bihar, people of diverse traditions have found home on this land. Each practice with its distinctive attributes adds vibrancy to the place.

Language of Bihar

Bihar Culture - Language — Image – Wikimedia Commons

Hindi is the dominant and official language of Bihar. Urdu is also in wide use in 15 districts, making it the second official language. Maithili and its dialect Bajjika, Bhojpuri, Angika, and Magadhi are other languages in everyday use.

Here is the main topic of our article. So far, given the history and traditions, Bihar holds we can conclude that the culture must be equally rich. Let us now look at the diverse culture that Bihar takes pride in.

Art & Craft of Bihar

Bihar Culture - Art, culture — Image – Wikimedia Commons

The myths and legends in association with the state have been a great source of influence for the artists of Bihar since the old days. Mithila being the birthplace of Sita, episodes of the Ramayana are a common theme.

Madhubani art form was born in Mithila. The Madhubani art form is a pride of Bihar that has become popular worldwide. Originally the Madhubani paintings were done by women with vegetable dyes for decoration on the walls. Once a visiting artist inspired the ladies to start painting this art form on paper. The Madhubani art form came out of its regional borders and spread across the nation and later the world.

Other art forms like stone pottery, bamboo crafts, white metal statues, leather goods, and wooden toys are also famous in Bihar. These art forms, along with Madhubani, have made Bihar gain a lot of popularity on a global scale.

Dance and Music of Bihar

Bihar has a stronghold in the field of performing arts also. Folk songs, folk dance, and classical music are part of the rich culture of Bihar.

Folk songs of Bihar are a beautiful recital of daily rural life. Daily and common themes are central to folk songs. These folk songs are a must during special occasions like weddings, festivals, and other important ceremonies. Bihar is a land of agriculture. Some folk songs are primarily a part of the harvesting periods. The names of some of the folk songs of Bihar are-

Sumangali – for weddings
Sohar – for the birth of a child
Ropnigeet – during the sowing paddy season
Katnigeet – during the season of paddy harvesting

Folk dance is also equally vital in the culture of Bihar. Like the folk songs and their usage, folk dance also takes an important place during special occasions. Some of the folk dances of Bihar are-

Chhau Dance– a tribal war dance
Jat-Jatin Dance– the Dance is foreplay and narrative of the life of husband and wife while wearing masks.
Bidesia– a dance drama popular in the Bhojpuri-speaking area of Bihar.

Other season or harvest theme folk dances are-

Jhijian Dance– in praise of Lord Indra during the season of drought.
Kajari Dance– to welcome the rainy season
Harvesting Dance– men and women, while working on the fields during the harvesting season, perform this Dance.
Holi Dance– during the national festival of Holi, Bihar also celebrates the festival in its unique style.

Indian Classical music has a considerable contribution from Bihar. Bharat Ratna Ustad Bismillah Khan hails from Bihar. Poets like Vidyapati Thakur and dhrupad singers like the Malliks and the Mishras have many gifts to Maithili music.

Festivals of Bihar

Bihar Culture - Chatt Puja — Chatth Puja – Wikimedia Commons

Bihar has a range of celebrations for which the people keep anticipating and preparing annually.

The most famous festivals of Bihar are-

Chatth Puja–Chatth Puja is the most famous festival in the state which celebrates the Sun God. The 4-day long festival usually takes place in November. Bihar comes to life during this festival. People observe a pious and spiritual life during this time. Traditional songs and music are a constant accompaniment for the celebration.

Ram Navami– Ram Navami is a major Hindu festival celebrated in Bihar with much grandeur. This celebration recalls the auspicious birth of Rama, the protagonist of the Ramayana. Fasts are observed, temples are decorated, and prayers are offered in his honour. People pray for the community’s health and prosperity.

Other festivities of the Bihar culture are-

Makar Sankranti– marks the beginning of the Summer season.
Sama- Chakeva – this festival is authentic to the Mithila region during the winter season.
Bihula– a speciality of the Bhagalpur district, the festival is in honour of Goddess Mansa to pray for the welfare of one’s family.
Shravani Mela– takes place every year in the month of Shravan (July-August). It is a month-long rite that takes place along a 108-kilometre stretch between the cities of Deogarh and Sultanganj.

Sonepur Cattle Fair– takes place in the Bihar town of Sonepur and is Asia’s largest cattle fair. It occurs on Kartik Purnima, the first full moon after the Diwali celebration.

Traditional Dress of Bihar

Traditionally Indian clothes are saree for women and dhoti-kurta for men. Clothes indigenous to Bihar are often in bright colours.

Women drape themselves in bright colour sarees and beautiful ornaments during special occasions. Tussar Silk sarees are most prevalent in Bihar.

Bihar Cuisine

Bihar-food-Litti-Chokha — Litti Chokha – Wikimedia

A wholesome experience of culture is incomplete without cuisines particular to that culture or place. Bihar does not fall short in its authentic lip-smacking cuisines.

Some of the must-try delicacies of Bihar are-

Litti- Chokha – This authentic cuisine of Bihar does not require a separate introduction. The famous Litti-Chokha is famous across the nation. The Litti is made with wheat and sattu with spices in a round shape. The Chokha is a concoction of mashed boiled vegetables with spices and freshly cut onions and garlic. The Litti has a crunchy crust with an aromatic smell of ghee. The taste stays along with you for long and beckons one to keep gorging on this delicious plate of food.
Khajuria, or Thekua– Thekua, is a ubiquitous and delicious snack of Bihar. It comprises wheat and jaggery and is deep-fried. The snack is significant for its fulfilling taste.
Dal Peetha– Dal Peetha is a form of dumpling authentic to Bihar. The food is made with rice flour and stuffing of lentil paste with spices and pickles. Dal Peetha is an easy and delicious food to enjoy for breakfast or a light snack.

These were some of the many authentic delicacies of Bihar. On a sweet note, there are some special preparations original in Bihar. Some of the typical sweet dishes of Bihar are-

Balushahi
Khurma and Lathko
Naivedyam
Kesar Peda, and many more.

Occupation in Bihar

For a long time, agriculture has been the backbone of Bihar’s economy. Despite the fact that Bihar has a harsh topography that makes agriculture difficult at times, it has been the only means of survival. In Bihar, there are two distinct agricultural seasons: Kharif and Rabi. Rice, paddy, wheat, jute, and maize are some of the most important crops. North Bihar is known for its agricultural production. As a result, it has a primarily agricultural-related business and infrastructure.

The state boasts a significant pool of low-cost industrial labour too, making it a suitable location for a variety of businesses and industries.

Learning about the rich Bihar culture only makes people want to visit the place and explore it by themselves. Enjoying the beautiful historic architecture, trying out the tasty delicacies, and appreciating the art is all part of the wholesome Bihar experience. Bihar culture is indeed very diverse and exciting for all. For those who like to explore the history and different traditions of a place, Bihar is a place you cannot miss. I hope you get to enjoy a delicious plate of Litti-Chokha while enjoying the culture of Bihar soon.

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