Visualization is a method used to calm the mind and body through mental imagery. The concept is compared to daydreaming, in which you visualize an image or scenery to encourage self-calm. Visualization has helped people cope with stress. It also promotes healing so the body can focus on self-repair. People who suffer from panic attacks or anxiety disorder have found visualization useful. When practiced regularly, it may help your mind and body improve its ability to relax and rest through imagery exercises.
What is Visualization and How Does It Help People?
The process includes using calming or serene images to help relax the mind. Visualization helps control anxious thoughts or calm the mind when you feel panic. When the mind gets caught up in worry and anxiety, it is difficult to focus on making decisions and solving problems. Visualization exercises help you train your mind to calm down racing thoughts by focusing on a comfortable environment. Then, you proceed with deep-breathing techniques to help the rest of your body calm down. The process may include engaging in muscle relaxation exercises to encourage in-depth body relaxation.
Most Common Visualization Exercise/Scene
The beach setting is a familiar environment people refer to when practicing visualization exercises. The beach presents a calm and relaxing atmosphere. If you’ve visited a beach before, you know how it can affect all of your body senses. The tranquility of the water waves, the warm sun, and the sound of the ocean water waves and winds together help people unwind. You can practice this exercise yourself or get it as a homework assignment if working with a counselor or therapist. Online counseling service providers like BetterHelp can connect you with licensed professionals who may guide you through such exercises as part of therapy.
The idea is to close your eyes and visualize yourself at the beach. Take notice of the things surrounding you, including the sky’s color, the movement of the water, and the sand between your toes. As you visualize this scene, relax your body muscles. Some like to change the motion of their breathing and sync it with the water waves’ motion. There is no right or wrong way to do this but do so in a comfortable manner for you. Take your time with the exercise and enjoy the sights with little effort. At the end of the exercise, imagine yourself leaving the beach slowly and remember this is your special place to return to when need. Open your eyes slowly.
Visualization Lets You Get Creative
The beach scene is a great idea, but you can choose any scene to help you get comfortable practicing visualization. You can get as creative as you want with your ideas. You can choose a nature scene such as the mountains, a private island, or a rainforest. The scene you imagine should allow you to use all five of your senses to create a mental state of calmness. It should help your body to relax.
When you are ready to end your exercise, slowly leave the scene by bringing your mind back to the present. Being creative with your scenery encourages you to practice your exercises regularly. Explore other ways to incorporate visualization with other concepts such as meditation and mindfulness.
Gaining benefits from visualization takes practice. Making time during the day includes choosing the best time of day and making it a routine. Practice when your anxiety levels are low. Practice will make it easier in time to use the technique when you need it the most. When you notice anxiety or stress symptoms begin to bother you, it is a good time to start your visualization exercise.
Going through some type of tragedy in your life will change you in many ways. When you’ve dealt with traumatic experiences such as losing loved ones, it’s not going to be easy to cope with what has happened. Some people even wind up experiencing significant issues with depression. You might be worried about what you can do to help yourself feel better, but you aren’t sure what to do about the way that you’re feeling inside.
Many people have decided to turn to therapy to help them get through the emotional trauma that they’re experiencing. If you know that you’re having a tough time in life because of a tragedy in your life, then you could use help. It’s a good idea to have someone on your side that understands what you’re going through. The decision to go to therapy could wind up changing your life for the better.
Acknowledging the Trauma
Acknowledging the trauma is an important step when you want to move on in life. Some people try to move forward by forgetting what happened or trying to bury it somewhere deep inside. This might work for a time, but those negative emotions will start to creep to the surface eventually. It’s important to grieve and allow yourself to go through the emotional process.
When you bottle up your emotions, it’s going to cause them to build up more pressure over time. Eventually, they’re going to come bursting out, and this can make it worse than usual for you. Instead of dealing with a little depression, you might wind up being very depressed. This is why acknowledging the situation and learning how to deal with things is the best route to take.
A therapist can help you out by talking to you about what you have experienced. It might be uncomfortable at first, but you will feel better as you move forward with therapy. You can come to terms with your feelings about your tragic experience. You’ll learn how to express your emotions in healthy ways, and you should be able to let go of the grief that you feel inside over time.
Learning How to Cope
Learning how to cope becomes easier when you have a therapist on your side as well. Going through some type of traumatic experience in life can make you feel anxious or depressed. Coping with those feelings in healthy ways is essential, and a therapist will work to help you develop strong coping mechanisms. If you get anxious in certain settings, then a therapist can help to teach you calming exercises so that you can find your center.
When you learn how to cope in healthy ways, it helps you to move forward in life. Instead of making bad choices that will make things worse, you’ll be able to cope and make yourself feel better. For example, some people overeat when they’re depressed because they’re trying to make themselves feel better. You’ll have better coping mechanisms to use than that, so you’ll be able to avoid the negative consequences of bad coping methods.
Therapy Can Be Convenient
Therapy can be convenient even if you’re a busy individual. You need help to work through the tragic experiences that you’ve had in life, but you might not have a lot of time to travel to therapy offices. Online therapy is the solution to this because it allows you to get help without having to leave the house. You can sign up for online therapy easily and it’s even possible to get a great deal. Many online therapists also offer treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy, which can be tailored to help with processing trauma and building healthier coping strategies.
Click here to learn more about how people can work through traumatic experiences in therapy. If you’ve been having a hard time after going through a tragic event, then you can get the help that you need. Having someone on your side will make a world of difference.
Have you been feeling like you’re having a tough time with your mental health as of late? Sometimes people go through difficult times in life, and you might wind up dealing with issues like depression and anxiety. If you’re feeling down, then you need to have good support so that you can feel better. Getting through mental health struggles alone is going to be even tougher than usual, and no one should have to try to do that.
Keep reading to learn about what you can do to get through a tough time with your mental health. You’ll learn about why support is so crucial and how you can use it to cope with everything that you’re going through. Over time, you’re going to feel substantially better if you’re able to follow this advice.
Coping with Mental Health Issues the Right Way
One of the most important reasons why you need support is that you need to be able to cope with mental health issues the right way. Some people turn to negative things when they feel depressed or anxious. A person might think that drinking alcohol or overeating will make them feel better. In reality, things like that have the potential to make your life worse, but you don’t always make the best decisions when you’re struggling with mental health.
If you have the support that you need, then you’re going to be more likely to avoid bad choices. Bad choices can lead you down a darker path that will be difficult to get off of. When you try to deal with mental health issues alone, it becomes that much tougher to cope with what is happening to you. Coping becomes easier when you have people that you can turn to, and this is why you should try to open up to those that care about you. In addition to seeking support from loved ones, structured methods like CBT can offer practical tools for managing anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges.
Having People to Talk To
Having people to talk to about mental health issues will make such a big difference in your life. When you’re going through a difficult period in life, it’s easy to get melancholy and feel like things will never turn around. If you’re dealing with thoughts like these by yourself, then your mental health might wind up getting worse. Ruminating thoughts can lead to greater despair, but you can inject positivity into the situation by having good people in your life.
Talking to close friends and family members about what is going on can help you to feel better. You can acknowledge the issues that you’re having problems with so that you can feel better. Sometimes your support system will have good advice for you, but it can also be cathartic to just talk things out. Having someone who cares enough to listen is very valuable, and it can make it a lot easier to cope with mental health issues.
Therapy Helps Many People
Talking with your friends and family members is great, but you might need more support than that. Support therapy can help you to turn your life around and get things back on track. Click here to learn a bit more about how therapy can make a difference in people’s lives. If you are looking for the right one, search “therapist near me” to find the best professional help in your area.
You have the option of signing up for online therapy so that you can talk to someone about what’s going on. This is great for so many reasons, but it’s especially good for those who have busy schedules. You can talk to a therapist whenever it’s convenient for you to do so, and you won’t ever have to leave the house. You can video chat with a therapist, talk on the phone, or even just send texts back and forth.
Look into the available therapy options so that you can get the support that you need. No one should ever feel that they have to face mental health issues like depression and anxiety alone. There are people out there who care, and you’ll always be able to reach out to a compassionate therapist.
The enthusiasm to reach Madikeri, the district headquarters of Coorg in Karnataka never waned, though our day began so early, hours before 6 AM when we boarded the Shatabdi from Chennai to Mysore, and the 3-hour drive from Mysore to our destination took a toll on us. Choi Myunghee, my travel buddy had everything in her backpack to keep us going. The otherwise quaint quiet hill station was noisy and crowded because of the imminent Dussehra procession. Unbounded merrymaking was largely written on all faces. After a warm shower, we could not wait any longer to explore. Dasha Mantapas, towering mechatronic statues, colorful shops, bargaining voices that rose above blaring music and gleeful faces, the aroma of foods and spices defined the run-up to the most famous festival of the country. Coming together of people belonging to different faiths looked glamorous.
Scenic beauty of Coorg
After a few minutes of chatting with Buddhist Lamas, we met in Shree Kote Mahaganapathi Temple. That gave us an inkling of the historical significance of the festival and the extravaganza. It goes back to more than 100 years when the people of Madikeri suffered from a grave disease and the then King sought a divine intervention by carrying out ‘Karaga puja’ to appease the four ‘Shaktidevata,’ and the spread of the epidemic was contained. Ever since celebrating the victory of good over evil happens in the best possible ways with moving Mantapas that showcase Puranas or mythological stories. Looks of disappointment were clearly written on their faces upon knowing we missed the previous nine days of Karaga show.
Dussehra at Madikeri
Dussehra at Madikeri is a lifetime experience for anybody from any part of the world. The night grew darker, the floats began to move, crowds trickled in, ready-to-rock DJs held sway, Madikeri danced away to an enticing mix of Kannada and Hindi rap, my legs grew tired and I half-heartedly made my way to Treebo Trend Oleander after a heavy dinner at Coorg Cuisine, the much sought after restaurant for Akki (rice), roti, and bamboo pork.
Early the next morning, we found ourselves among the last revelers. Statues of Field Marshal K M Cariappa, first Indian Commander-in-chief of the army adorned Madikeri and spoke volumes of how the natives revered him. To me, it felt as though this proud son of the soil was overseeing everything that’s happening in his hometown. The reeling floats finally halted.
Treeboo Oleander
Our driver regaled us with stories of past Dussehras till we reached Nisargadhama, a delta formed by river Cauveri. The hanging bridge that led us into the reserve did sway a bit. I was nervous. So, I kept myself mentally occupied by trying to remember a word, and before I crossed the bridge I got it right: gephyrophobia- fear of bridges. Human-sized figurines offered visual storytelling. Just when I needed an adrenaline rush, I spotted ziplining. Before I could decide if those screams I heard meant panic or excitement, I was already pushed down the line. Spotted deer and stags loitering about slowly with their curved three-pronged antlers stood and stared, posed for all. Watchtowers provided me with the satisfying view of the whole islet; not to mention the shaky wooden ladders.
Namdroling Monastery Golden Temple – Bylakuppe
Our next stop was Bylakuppe, the second largest Tibetan settlement in the world outside Tibet after Dharmashala. Despite the tourists, the place was tranquil and quiet. It took much of my effort to learn the names of the three towering gold plated statues of three saints set against intricate murals and impress a few. A word of prayer to saint Padmasambhava for making me more kind and compassionate, one to saint Sukhayami for peace that passeth all understanding and last one to Buddha Amitayus for a long life. A casual chat with Pawan monk Rigchog who seemed to know a handful of Indian languages gave me a vivid idea of what is required of monkhood. He enjoyed the question-answer session but glances from other tourists who wanted to meditate made me forget the other dozen questions I had in my mind.
Namdroling Monastery Golden Temple – Bylakuppe
After the chance encounter with Rigchog, I found my nerve to interact with many more. Many conversations began with a Namaste, continued through uninhibited chuckles and debates and ended with cool photographs. Given the beautiful frescos that depict Buddhist mythology and traditional Thangka paintings in smaller Padma Sang-Ngag Choekhorling and Tashi Lhunpo monasteries, I got lost in time. Rhythmic chants, flickering butter lamps and moon-faced monks held my attention, helping me realize that I have finally learnt to sit still and silent. Oh, that big bell in the courtyard. Alas! It was tongue-tied. Yes, all bells in Bylakuppe should ring for a reason.
My hunger pangs disappeared on seeing quad bikes. My fantasies gave way to fear and excitement as I failed to maneuver the machine through steep slippery slopes and slushy swamps. Neither I nor my fellow riders were surprised when my bike stopped. My travel buddy quipped, “Nothing ends a perfect ride quicker than a broken chain”. Thankfully, the broken chain came as a saving grace giving me my much-needed relief and time to gaze at the plantations and farmlands around. As if the instructor already knew what was coming, he made sure I was on another bike in less than fifteen minutes. The 4km trail did test my endurance, strength and courage.
Colorful ‘Dream house’ of a coffee planter (read the plaque)
An hour later, I woke up to sounds of hawkers and costermongers crying, ’Buttered corn!’, ‘Oranges!’ and ‘Spices!’ We were at Raja’s seat, a beautiful misty laden place and a famous sunset point in Madikeri. Sipping my last drop of tea, I sighed, ‘Kings of Yore and their consorts were lucky’. Suddenly the clouds lifted up revealing lush green valleys, rolling hills and winding roads. A chill wind brushed softly against my face now and then but somewhere between the sudden bursting of the sky into colours and the swirling, moving, dimming, brightening and fading, I stopped complaining about how cold I felt. The sun had set in all its splendour.
In my mind’s eye, the movie did not end till we reached Omkareshwara Temple, built by King Lingarajendra II in the 18th century to honour Lord Shiva. A few locals turned storytellers. This temple, a token of a King’s penance for murder, reflects a unique blend of Gothic and Islamic architecture with a huge dome in the centre and four minarets in four corners. Carps in the water tank soothed my troubled soul and I forgot when I stopped deliberating on, ‘A temple to appease a murdered soul!’
Coorgi Food Kadubu
Coorg Cuisine overflowed with golfers who were there to play a tournament at the Mercara Downs Golf Club. An avid golfer herself, Choi soon found herself in the company of a few friendly golfers and the kindest of all Shri. Ranjan Sood extended an invite, which we gratefully accepted.
Next morning, our trekking guide B B Chennappa fondly called as ‘Trekstar’ greeted us with an ‘Are you ready’. But for Choi’s passion, I wouldn’t have opted for a 15 km trek. We boarded a bus that dropped us at Galibeedu, the starting point of the trek. Along the 7km drive, the bus stopped a dozen times, once for tea at the only tea shop I saw in that entire stretch; another time to collect a letter from somebody; few minutes to collect a lunch box from a home; once again for a chat with a person who was familiar to all in the bus except the two of us; at a temple on request from a passenger and at a beautiful place to let us take some good photos.
For the love of Poinsttias
With the magic of wind and mist against our faces, we began our trek. Trekstar turned a leech hater, botanist, zoologist, herpetologist and news reporter depending on the questions I posed to distract myself from what I was exactly attempting half-heartedly for the first time- A trek.
A dark secret followed my introduction to Angel’s trumpets as flowers with medicinal properties. Fever, delirium, hallucinations, agitation, persistent memory disturbances, flaccid paralysis, convulsions and death will result if eating the flower turns from best to worst. Will the flower be renamed Devil’s trumpet? ‘This is the Common Nettle plant which the tribes use to treat painful muscles and joints, eczema, arthritis, gout, and anemia’ said Chennappa.
My curiosity to take a closer look prompted him to yell out its other name ‘Stinging Nettle’ and I froze for a second. “Leaves of Agaves are used to make tequila and we have plenty here”, he said showing us wildly grown blue-green succulent plants. Eyes wide with excitement, my friend hummed, “Cause you and tequila make me crazy, run like poison in my blood”. Then a conversation ensued regarding which one is better- Kenny Chesney or John Anderson’s ‘straight tequila night’. Amidst our chitter-chatter, gurgling streams, burbling rivers and cricket stridulation, I wondered “Am I going on a hunt for ‘Blood Orchid’?
Astream that quenched my thirst
For the next few hours, I listened to Choi and Trekstar as I negotiated and enjoyed completely contrasting landscapes, steep and narrow and believe me, weather too. Drizzles cooled us, in no time winds dried us up. Spotting a tribal dwelling meant a short break because Trekstar stopped to explain the type of hut, the small solar panel on the roof which was meant to light one bulb, their small vegetable patch, white cloth pieces that kept wild pigs away from their gardens and pet dogs which barked their lungs out at us.
He explained at great length till somebody stepped out of the hut to exchange a few words with him about the recent developments in the family, around and about the place. We spotted a few tree snakes, snails, some big bugs, and beetles. Stories of tribes trading tusks of dead elephants for old clothes saddened me. How and why they look out for ‘Magic mushrooms’ is another sad story. Cold, inviting streams eased our tired feet occasionally.
Avocado trees and honeycombs on cliffs enhanced my self-doubt that my favorite things do not easily fall in place, in the right place. Trekstar’s familiarity of names, places and smells along the trails assured me that he can guide us, even blindfolded. A plethora of views along the trail kept me from nagging Trekstar and Choi with questions on the kilometers covered and yet to cover. Surrounded by mountains on all sides, it felt isolated, wild and in a way better than usual. Did I hear him say, “That’s Nishane Motte peak”? Yes, I heard it right.
Beauty in eternity
The joy of running towards a summit, the exhilaration on reaching one and the breathtaking picturesque vista cannot be written or said, but they are to be felt and experienced. Chapatis, bananas and hot coffee recharged us. The spotlessly clean trail that led us to the mesmerizing peak belied Trekstar’s statement that Nishane motte is a favourite spot of trekkers. Animal footprints, sounds and droppings did not bother me. I almost became part of the wild with a leave no trace policy.
On and off, we had to pause for the dramatic clouds to pass by. Empty water bottles did not upset me. Thanks to water sources. To me, anything looked like magic, everything came across as unthinkable, clouds that limited our visibility to zero seemed marvellous, accidental slips and loud shrieks and getting stuck in mud made me feel intrepid. Nishani Motte peak stole my heart. I will definitely climb many more mountains and marvel at many more views, but Nishani Motte will always be my first love. In every way, it was the Coorg I was looking for.
Woods of Nisargadhama
Another morning, I lost my battle against waking up with the chirping sparrows by my window sill and a loud shrill whistling of an unknown bird heard from afar. With Choi still asleep, I took a quick walk to Madikeri Fort to see how Raja’s seat looked like from the fort. I envied kings and queens. Stone turtle inside the palace with the name of King Vijayarendra engraved on it could mean or convey anything to inspire. One cannot decide if it’s, ‘Slow and steady wins the race’ or ’10,000 years of happiness’ or ‘Heaven and earth united’ or ‘Everything we own is on our back’ because turtles are symbolic of Mother Earth.
An unusual early morning stir in the government offices happened because offices were being shifted out of the Fort to the new building of Zilla Panchayat in the wake of the High Court direction to hand over the Fort to the Archaeological Survey of India to be renovated and restored to its historical glory.
Dubare elephant camp
Faizal drove us through coffee plantations with palatial farmhouses and cottages. Poinsettias flourished everywhere, along the roads, in gardens and in the wild. For a moment, it felt like Christmas. The delightful fragrance of eucalyptus filled the air. We reached that large body of water. Broken bottles frustrated me. Experts around the world are yet to figure out whether Indians in their inebriated mood break bottles before throwing them away or they get broken after being thrown away. One perfect spot for perfect landscape photography with the Chiklihole reservoir sandwiched between rich green woodlands and a green meadow but the liquor bottles warn lone travellers.
Unplanned visit to this place turned out to be the first best experience of Day 3. Grazing cows, the still waters and songbirds had a hold on me until Faizal reminded us of the probable rush at Dubare elephant camp. The serpentine queue at the elephant camp surprised us. White water rafting was an option. Being a first-timer, I googled frantically. Sooner, I found myself on a rubber raft with a guide and five others- including two schoolboys Nitin and Nishanth aged ten and sixteen. The 11km stretch with four rapids and few whirlpools thrilled us. On reaching still waters, a perfect swim zone, Girish took it on himself to push scared adamant ones like me into the river to give me a ‘never again never before’ experience for which I am thankful to him. At the end of it all, seven of us felt victorious.
Heroes rest in Gaddige
Basavanhalli was another pit stop with hundreds of look-alike houses. Greetings were acknowledged with warmth and reciprocated with an invite for a cup of tea at Shri Saami’s house. Project Manager at Nirmithi Kendra, Shri. Asangi Kareppa was already relishing his cuppa. His narration of the story behind the relocation of Jenu Kuruba, Beta Kuruba, Errava and Soliga tribes of the Diddalli reserve forests after years of agitations under Saami, representations to concerned officers, nude protests and the unfolding of political dramas held us in rapt attention. Meanwhile, Kamalakshi, Saami’s adorable teen daughter served us delicacies and confessed her love for Tamil, a language she spoke nice and easy. Goodbyes were not hard to come, for I will see them again, to know them better.
Off we drove to Gaddige, a place for both history and nature lovers. Indo-Saracenic style monuments, which are nothing but the tombs of King Veera Rajendra, his wife, and his brother Linga Rajendra, adorn the place. Gaddige also houses tombs of Raja’s priest Rudrappa and two brave army generals Biddanda Bopu and Biddanda Somaiah who fought Tipu Sultan. Looking through the bronze bars set in sculpted stone at the gilded domes in the centre and minaret –like turrets, each topped with images of bulls at the four corners got me an exclusive panorama of the uneven Madikeri skyline. Ranjan’s phone call jolted me out of my imagination mode. From afar, the golf dunes, elevated greens and trees welcomed me into a make-believe Scottish world. No plain talk is the first rule of ‘Golfish’- language of the golfers.
Downs golf course
Everything ought to be adorned and top-dressed. Woods surrounding the course, fluffy clouds floating down to caress us and the tremendous sense of camaraderie Choi and Ranjan displayed as golf lovers made me think Golf is worth the time, dress code, money and effort for anybody who can afford it. Not because I was visiting a golf course for the first time but I knew I’ll never get comfortable with the idea of someone being able to hit a ball into 18 different holes hundreds of yards away. To any non-golfer, the most uplifting elements of the golf course were the endless greenery, the cleanliness, decorum of the club, poise, and good deportment of golfers and of course the food and drinks. If Downs Golf Club was a wonderland, I was Alice.
Three days and nights were not enough to explore Madikeri to my heart’s content, but travelling is not just about the places we visit. It is more about the people we meet, friendships we forge, and fond memories that urge us to retrace journeys. Summer berries and memories of Coorg sustain me. Well, there is a first time for everybody.
Situated in the southern most state of India, Tamil Nadu shares its borders with the states of Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. A land of exhilarating and breathtaking beauty, Tamil Nadu has a distinct place in India. The state is home to great historical heritage and tradition. Tamil Nadu culture is super rich and truly vibrant, hence the state is frequently visited by travellers and history enthusiasts from all parts of the world. The people of the state give immense importance to their culture and traditions, and this is evident from their daily life.
Kanyakumari, the southern tip of India, is a marvel in itself, the fascinating and mesmerizing beauty of the place is beyond description, and is also one of the places frequented by tourists. Tamil Nadu is home to an ancient history spanning over two thousand years. Throughout its history, the state has been under the rule of different dynasties, such as the Pallava Dynasty, The Pandya Dynasty, the Chola Dynasty, and the Chera Dynasty. The state’s vast and rich heritage can be observed in the historically relevant and culturally rich monuments that adorn the state.
Majority of people in Tamil Nadu speak Tamil, and hence it is also the official language of the state. A part of the Dravidian language family, Tamil has speakers around the world. It is also the official language of Srilanka and Singapore and is also spoken in considerable numbers in the countries of South Africa, Mauritius, Malaysia, and Fiji. Recognized as a classical language of India due to its independent tradition, significant ancient literature, and ancient origins, the language is also recognized as one among the 22 languages which are included in the Indian Constitution. As the oldest and the longest surviving classical languages prevalent in the world today, the language is also heir to a fascinating collection of ancient literature.
South Indian food is quite popular for its remarkable delicacy and the unique blend of spices. The Tamil Nadu cuisine too is no exception and offers a wide range of dishes to choose from. Rice is the staple food of the Tamilians and includes a variety of the same. From the ordinary plain rice to the different rice varieties such as lemon rice, Thakkali Soru (Tomato rice), Thengai Soru (Coconut rice), Paruppu Soru (Lentil rice) is prepared in the state. Sambar, Rasam, Coconut Chutney are among the most popular side dishes in the state. Breakfast usually includes Dosa, which too has several varieties or idli along with coconut chutney or sambar. Uttapam, a dish identical to the Dosa but with tomatoes and other spices, is also a common breakfast dish in the state.
On special occasions, the people of Tamil Nadu prefer to have food on a banana leaf. Other dishes include Poriyal, Puliyodharai, Medhu Vadai, paniyaram among others. For those with a sweet tooth, Tamil Nadu is also home to some a variety of sweet dishes and desserts such as the Arisi thengai payasam, Pasi Paruppu Payasam, among others. The state also has some enjoyable snacks such as the Murukku and Seedai, among others.
For the people of Tamil Nadu, their attire is an important part of their culture as it represents their rich tradition. Women usually dress in sarees, which are known for their elaborate, elegant designs and vibrant colours. The Kanjeevaram saree is the most popular kind of saree in the state and is widely worn by the women of the state, mostly during special occasions. Young girls usually wear the half saree which comprises a blouse, a full-length skirt and a shawl known as Davani. Tamilian men wear a lungi and a shirt along with an Angavastram which is a crucial piece in their wardrobe. The traditional dresses are usually worn along with traditional accessories, such as Chains, Oddiyanam, and payals made of gold. They also adore their hair with flower garlands in a particular fashion, called gajras.
The cultural festivals of any state are instrumental in highlighting and celebrating their culture. As a land with a rich heritage, Tamil Nadu is also home to several cultural festivals, which portray the vivid and diverse Tamil Nadu culture.
Pongal is perhaps the most significant and popular cultural festival of the state. The festival takes place in January and is celebrated as an expression of gratitude for the Harvest, and hence is also known as the Harvest festival of the state. The festival takes place in a span of 4 days, and each day has its own significance. The first day is called Bhogi Pongal, and is seen as a new beginning; all the houses in the state are decorated on this day. The second day is known as Surya Pongal; on this day people wear traditional clothes. The third day of the festival is known as Mattu Pongal during this time the famous Jallikattu event happens, and the last day is Kaanum Pongal, which marks the end of the celebrations.
Natyanjali festival in Chidambaram – Arunan kapilan via Wikimedia
The Tamil New year, also known as Puthandu, is another immensely popular festival of the state. This day marks a new beginning filled with hope and joy for the people of the state. On this day, beautiful kolams are drawn with the use of eye catching colours. People adorn themselves with new clothes and prepare special dishes for the day.
The Natyanjali Dance Festival held in Tamil Nadu has admirers from around the country. The festival gathers around close to four hundred dancers from around the country to bring together the unique and varied forms of art, such as Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, among others. Other popular cultural festivals include Karthigai Deepam, Thiruvaiyaru Festival, among others.
Carnatic Music is the most significant part of the Music of Tamil Nadu. It is considered the Classical Music of Southern India and is said to be one of the oldest systems of Music prevalent in the world. Carnatic Music is not unknown and is beloved by music lovers all around the world. Apart from Carnatic Music, the state also abounds in folk music and is home to some of the renowned singers of all time.
Apart from the Music, the state is also home to some of the elegant and mesmerizing dance forms prevalent in the world today. Bharatanatyam is perhaps the most popular dance form in Tamil Nadu and has gained admirers from around the world. Considered to be one of India’s Oldest dance forms, Bharatanatyam is said to be the precursor of all other styles of classical dances. The costumes worn by the performers are both striking and vibrant, this along with the ornaments, makes the dance more beautiful. Other folk art forms of Tamil Nadu includes Karakattam, Devarattam among others.
Art is an inevitable part of Tamil Nadu’s culture. From the Kolam that is drawn at the entrance of each home at sunrise to the spectacular Tanjore paintings, the state is indeed a great spot for art enthusiasts from every corner of the world. For the women of the household, their day begins with the making of a Kolam at the entrance of their homes; with an intricate and beautiful design. The Tanjore paintings and Tanjore Dolls are quite famous as they are embellished with gold.
Apart from the paintings, the state is also known for its pottery, musical instruments, and amazing crafted jewellery. Pottery is an ancient practice that is well preserved in the state. The state is also known for its production of enchanting silk sarees, created through the traditional methods, which are in massive demand throughout the country.
Tamil is one of the oldest languages prevalent in the world today and is hence a proud heir to a rich ancient literature. In fact, Tamil has the oldest literature prevalent in India today. The literature spans from the 4th century with the Chilappatikaran and the Thirukkural, to modern literature. Tamil literature has a soul of its own and is quite different from that of others. The cultural richness and the varied heritage of the state are well represented in Tamil Literature. Tamil literature also has to its credit many literary gems, who continue to be loved and acclaimed by many.
The state’s heritage can be witnessed in the architectural brilliance and the historical significance can be observed in the temples built here. Almost all the dynasties that ruled the state valued and promoted art and architecture, which led to the building of countless temples in the state, representing the distinct features of the period when it was built. These temples were built here by the rulers of various dynasties and accurately represent the Dravidian culture and art. In the Chola dynasty, the architecture of the state underwent a significant evolution. The rulers of the dynasty built several temples, such as the Brihadisvara Temple, Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram, among others.
The Brihadisvara temple, situated in Thanjavur, is one of the largest temples in Southern India. UNESCO has termed the group of temples, built during the Chola dynasty in Tamil Nadu as the “Great Living Chola Temples”, and they are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur, the Temple of Gangaikonda Cholapuram, and the Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram together form the “Great Living Chola Temples”. Apart from them, the other monuments that portray the rich heritage and architecture of the state include the Valluvar Kottam, dedicated to the poet Valluvar and Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal. Chettinad Palace is a great example for the tasteful architecture that Chettiars incorporated in their lifestyles.
The majority of the people of Tamil Nadu engage in agriculture and it is known as the backbone of the state. A variety of crops are cultivated, including millets, pulses, paddy, and even commercial crops such as sugarcane, sunflower, cotton, and coconut, among others. Apart from agriculture, the people of Tamil Nadu also engage in a variety of other professions.
Tamil Nadu is the land of enchanting beauty, vibrant cultures and grand traditions. Through its fascinating heritage and historical significance, the state has managed to capture the attention of the world.
Unlike many other countries, India does not have a single language or culture. Each state and region has its own traditions and cultural aspects. All of these together make up the bustling heritage and way of life that is distinctly local, yet a part of the larger mosaic of the Indian landscape.
Gujarat is located on the western coast of India. When one thinks of Gujarat several myriad images of the land are conjured. Gujarat means coastlines and forests. It is also about fun and food-loving people, dandiya and Garba dances, festivals and folklore. However, Gujarat also means a hub of skilled handicrafts and artisans. The artistry of the state is world-renowned and home to some magnificent forms and techniques of embroidery, prints, paints, and woodwork.
The region of Kutch, which is a district of Gujarat, shines a glittering example of some of the best handicrafts of the country. Yet, the true essence of the artists lies in their simplicity. Entire villages are usually attuned to a particular skill that has been passed down from one generation to another. One can very often find the women of the villages seated casually outside engrossed in their embroidery or the men working away at washing or dyeing the fabrics. Thus, handicraft is a way of life, and often the execution of their skill is a humble habit of practice rather than an arrogance of mastery.
Several handicrafts from Gujarat are special due to their uniqueness and vibrancy. Usually, communities who hold the skill, knowledge, and practice of their art form through generations create the specific handicrafts. Let us take a look at some of the most well-known handicrafts of Gujarat and the communities and regions that practice them.
Also known as the Tie and Dye or Bandhej handicraft, the Bandhini is colourful, vivid, and absolutely stunning. Bandhini came to Gujarat in the 12th century. The Khatri community has been practising this handicraft for generations which have become popular across the globe today. The method involves tying the cloth tightly over small dots and then dyeing the material. After dyeing the knots are opened imparting on the fabric a stark difference in design and colour. The bright hues of the Bandhini and its unique patterns and designs make it a loved handicraft. Bandhini creates magic on various garments, including the saree and dupattas. Some of the different patterns include Gharcholu, Chokidal, and Kambaliya. Some of the best Bandhini garments and patterns are found in Jamnagar, Bhuj, and Mandvi.
Batik – Block Painting Art
Image Courtesy – Nazariya.in
Batik is a form of block painting art. Usually done using hand blocks the designs from the blocks are printed on the fabric with detailing and care. Again practised by the Khatri community Batik was extremely popular during the 16th century and was exported to Indonesia etc. Initially, the blocks were dipped in piloo seed oil and later wax was used for printing. However, today chemicals have overtaken natural paints and dyes. Batik is the most popular in Bhujpur, Mandvi and Mundra.
Ajrakh is also a form of block printing. It comes from the word ‘azrakh’ which means indigo. This block printing form traditionally used the blue colour from the indigo plant. Also, the designs of the Ajrakh can be traced to the Islamic architecture designs and Jaali works. One of the traditional wears worn, especially during Eid, the Ajrakh involves a sixteen step method. There is washing, dyeing followed by printing and drying. The drying process also is slightly prolonged because the colours used are fast. Ajrakh is most famous in Ajrakhpur and Dhamadka in Kutch.
Weaving Arts of Gujarat
Tangaliya weaving
The Maheswari and Marwada community is usually into the weaving business in Gujarat. Kachchhi weaving is a popular weaving art of the region and forms socio-economic connections with other communities of the state. For example, the Rabari community supplied the cotton or yarn for weaving, whereas the Ahirs or agriculturists grew the cotton in the first place. This is also a reason why the communities who wore them the most inspire the designs of Kachchhi weaving. Hence the designs include animal footprints or musical instruments. After the industrialization wave in the 60’s many weavers stopped weaving to look for alternate employment sources. However, in Bhujodi a cooperative was formed that kept the weaving community alive. Similarly, Tangaliya work specializes in weaving shawls and dress materials. The Dangassia community in Surendranagar is the hub of tangaliya weaving work. Some of the other weaving types include camel weaving, Mashru weaving, Kharad weaving, etc. The Patola is a woven sari of Gujarat and is one of the most popular and splendid forms of hand-woven fabrics.
The Khatri community practices this fantastic and intricate art form. Also known as Rogan Printing this art form first originated in Iran but is popular, and confined to Gujarat. The technique of painting is very detailed and requires mastery and practice. Castor oil along with natural colours from flowers and vegetables is used to paint the fabric using a special brush. First, a small amount of the castor oil is put in the palm of the artist who twists its images and motifs using the special brush or metal rod. This design is then folded into the fabric creating a mirror image. The Nirona village in Bhuj today is the main epicentre for Rogan paintings.
Embroidery Art of Gujarat
Rabari Girl with Traditional Rabari Embroidery Dress by Takuya via Flickr
Primarily a women’s forte, the embroidery handicrafts of Gujarat are mesmerizing, to say the least. Several communities practice different types of embroideries, and each of them adds a distinct characteristic to their art. One of the most famous is the Rabari embroidery made by the Lohanan community. Their embroidery centres on events, occasions, etc. Rabari embroidery uses mirror work giving it a magical and mystical quality. Some of the other types of embroideries are named after the communities that practice them, including Jat, Ahirs, Soof, etc. One of the most notable embroideries is, of course, zari work. Surat is a large producer of zari garments including laces, cords etc.
Potters of Gujarat work in close tandem with the other handicrafts of Gujarat. Their earthen wares make for social and household uses. The pottery work is also associated with natural elements, such as clay, stones, leaves etc. The Khavda pottery is one of the famous types of pottery of the state. Besides earthen utility items, the clay and terracotta figures and toys are also well-known handicrafts of Gujarat. Chhota Udaipur is famous for terracotta works.
Leather handicraft of Gujarat
Image – Itokri
The Meghwal community has mastered the leather works in the state. Earlier the leather industry catered to making shields, saddles, etc. However, modern-day items include bags, various kinds of beautiful footwear, cushion covers, etc. Kachchhi leather is known for its durability and its ability to hold water. Khavda is most famous for leather handicraft in Gujarat.
Closely related to the woodwork of Rajasthan and Thar Desert, the wood carvings of Gujarat are detailed and exquisite. The Raos or kings of Kutch patronized wood carvings in the area. Sandal wood craft is famous in Surat, whereas, Rajkot and Sankheda are famous for furniture making. Bhavnagar, Pethpur are some other destinations where splendid woodwork items can be found. The woodwork handicrafts include plaques, chests, furniture and other household items. Besides normal woodwork, the lacquered wood craft is a very niche handicraft of Gujarat. Practiced by the Vadha community, lac is the raw material from insect resin. The colored lacquer applied on wood creates various patterns and designs.
A specialty of Gujarat, beadwork is a unique handicraft. Created usually by the tribal community of Vadodra, Dahod, and Panchmahal bead work enhances and brings a different fervor to the fabrics or base materials on which it is used. Also known as moti bharat, the beadwork is usually found on jewelry, artifacts, accessories, decorative items, etc. Bead work of Rajkot, Khambat, Amreli, Saurashtra, Junagadh is also popular.
Kutch Utsav
Image – Pixabay
Gujarat and especially the Kutch region have a rich repository of various handicrafts. One of the best ways to discover the myriad forms of Gujarat handicrafts is to visit the Kutch Utsav. Popularly known as Rann Utsav the event is a yearly festival. A three-month celebration held on the edge of the Rann of Kutch is a wonderful platform for the local artisans to showcase and sell their products and handicrafts. With various cultural programs it is the handicrafts from the region that are the main attraction of this event. Villagers and local artisans from across the state and region make way to the Utsav which becomes a hub of high and vivid energy and cultural exuberance.
Kutch, Gujarat – Saurabh Chatterjee via Flickr
The Rann Utsav has become a leading tourist highlight with travelers from not only the country but also the world making their way to absorb the rustic and skilled local flavors of the regions.
The handicrafts of Gujarat hold a special place for their variety and strong-rooted traditional essence. We can only hope that with efforts by various NGOs and the government they continue the legacy of yesteryears and take forward the handicrafts for the next many generations to come.
‘Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan’ – The slogan by Lal Bahadur Shastri is as much a relevant cry as it was years ago when it stirred the ‘jawans’ at the border to fight off the Pakistani attack and the ‘kisan’ at home to increase the production of food grains. Today of course, our sovereignty is not under attack from any other country, but our farmers are fighting for their rights. Where on one hand, the government insists that the new agriculture laws are for the overall benefit of the sector, the farmers themselves are not convinced. And for days, the nation, especially the capital, has been witness to farmers who have taken to the streets in a peaceful way to protest against these agricultural laws. I am no agriculturist or economists and the facts and details of the bills may seem a bit overwhelming for those who don’t understand how the economy and marketing of the agricultural produces work. But what most of us do understand is that if laws do not make happy or sense to those for whom they are made, then they need to be reviewed and revised. And when farmers themselves are strongly opposing the bills, is another point of view really required?
The proposed new agricultural reforms, are namely the Farmer’s Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Act and the Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act. These acts address a number of points but without getting into too many technical explanations the basic and few points of contention are the increased role of the corporates and the concern around MSP or the minimum support price. The government believes that the acts are in fact, means of empowerment and upliftment for the farmer. The farmers obviously think otherwise. The experts are divided, though some agree that the outline and idea of the laws are sensible, however, there are several loopholes and revisions that need to be considered. This debate has been raging for several days, with the country experiencing a stiff protest from its very grass root brethren. The farmers are refusing to comply and the emotions across the country are flying high. And though this essentially is an issue of the farmer, the lines are blurred between rural and urban India.
India has always been regarded as an agricultural nation. The agrarian society has made its place in our economy, culture and traditional values as well. Looking back, agriculture was a way of life even before the Indus Valley Civilization. Wheat and barley were grown during the Neolithic revolution and irrigation came about in full swing during the Indus Valley Civilization. Agriculture flourished along all ages through the Iron Age and Early and Middle Ages. A variety of crops were grown and India became to be best known for its spices. Trade grew with spices taking center stage and continued through the Mughal Era. The techniques and skill of Indian farmers was advanced and probably one of the best in the world. The peasants adapted to newer crops, such as mulberry, coffee, tobacco, tea over the years and grew new species of different fruits ranging from papaya, pineapple and mangoes. India before British colonization had one of the highest per capita agricultural output and food prices were low.
Under the British cash crops such cotton, opium, indigo, rice and wheat were regularly exported. The global market was open for Indian agricultural produces but the glitches in the armor became more and more visible. Agriculture trade happened even before the British came but after colonization the shift in commercializing agriculture was exceedingly prominent. The divide between the rich and poor peasants increased drastically with zamindars and landlords taking a lot of control. Overall, the state of agriculture affairs deteriorated and became messy, complicated and complex.
Post-independence a lot of changes were implemented to better the state and economy of agriculture. Of course, the zamindari system was abolished and various other reforms were drafted. The Green Revolution brought about considerable changes in the industry however, the agriculture sector never again seemed to find its glory of the distant past. Problems continued in spite of the many reforms, which looked sensible on paper but never were fully executed or returned results as thought. The workforce employed in agriculture began to fall, with poor and landless farmers migrating or finding alternate employment opportunities. Those households that remained were recorded to have the ‘highest incident of poverty’ in the country from 1993-2000. Farmer suicides grabbed headlines and largely remained so. And hence the Indian farmer who has long been the pillar and support of this nation, unfortunately found his social status never exalted to a stage that merited respect and dignity. For years the farmer has suffered and the urban classes have read and re-read stories of their miseries, whether it be farmer suicides, droughts, floods, hording or debts.
Yet, India continues to be a leading producer in various agricultural outputs, such as coconut, ginger, banana, turmeric, wheat, groundnut, fruits, vegetable etc. This paradox of production vis-a-vis true empowerment of all farmers remains to be a case of complexity, intertwined with years of subjugation, policies, reforms, industrialization etc. The solutions are not simple, simply because the problems are so varied and spread right across all boards. But the Indian farmer and the spirit of agriculture or farming refuse to fade away from the collective imagination of a nation whose traditions and culture is deeply rooted in its villages and farms.
Agriculture has been the strongest and the foundational culture of India. Yes, once upon a time more than eighty percent of the population was involved in agriculture and that number has fallen to just about 50% today. However, farming and agriculture has always moved beyond being mere means to livelihood. It has became the essence of cultural existence. From the ‘khet’ and ‘khalyans’ rose the true spirit of a nation that found in it, its most simple and basic ways of living. From festivals being celebrated according to the farming calendar and the monsoon cycle to weddings and marriages in families, agriculture has played a huge role on it all. It has lent its influence in shaping the traditional arts, including those that were drawn on walls and floors of homes. Artistic expressions in its various forms be in painting, dances or also movie making have found a sound stronghold in lush green fields. It has played its part in story-telling, in keeping joint families together, in sharing workload or in animal and wildlife care. The role and empowerment of women in villages largely revolves around agriculture and so do various religious and spiritual impacts. Agriculture and farming has never been only about the finances or the economy. It has its looming presence in social and cultural aspects of villages. In short, it forms the very structure of the nation.
In spite of its very strong social and culture impact, the economics of agriculture cannot be ignored. Neither can its study and scientific tenor. Fertilizers, pesticides, insecticides, artificial seeds or the introduction of new species etc. are all scientific studies. There is reason and understanding and a process and method in agriculture. And hence, though it is often relegated a position lower than industrialization, it ideally isn’t. The farmer, if educated and guided in the right way, can with the acumen of his craft create a system that is beneficial for all, including the environment, his finances and the overall development of the economy. But the economics of the agricultural sector have been heavily intertwined with the social stratification as well. Class and caste have played a role in the financial dynamics of the sector too and hence the gap between rich and poor peasants has been stark since long. Even today, as the debate around the three new agricultural reforms or acts brews up intent and emotions, the underlining crux remains the same. These policies yet again will marginalize the already marginalized farmer further. The feasibility or impact of these might be making sense on paper, but the realities on ground hardly match those. And this perhaps, is a fact that is well known and understood by all. Furthered by the multitudes of other elements, such as the mandi system, middle men, corporates, hoarding, MSP the matters have only become a complicated conundrum. Yes, it can all be explained, yet, with the farmers protesting over them, it’s hard to look at it any other way.
Finally, all I can say is that agriculture is the heart of this country. Its farmers and their toil is the reason why we not only are able to feed such a huge population but also export food and products. Commercialization or industrialization if implemented with a will to genuinely improve the lives of all, usually bears fruit. But when the stakes are too high, where the emotional and cultural integration so deep seated, then an equal opportunity of dialogue first, implementation later must be employed. Yes, we need reforms, but not at the cost of not listening to those for whom the reforms are supposedly beneficial and made in the first place. The farmer knows better, for once let’s not decide for him.
The artform of Kantha embroidery originated in the pre-Vedic period. This ancient practice involves the stitching of patchwork cloth from rags or discarded clothes. The women of the pre-Partition region of rural Bengal further propagated this craft. Kantha became repositories for memories and well wishes that were weaved onto them. The illiterate women thus found in this generational skill, a way to leave a lasting impression of their artistry.
Although not monetized into a profession back in the days, Kantha stitching was indulged in by most women regardless of class and has been passed on from one generation to another. The word ”Kantha” refers to the running style of a stitch as well as the finished product of patched up cloth. The craft of Kantha stitch is practiced today by numerous South Asian women. However, traditional techniques involving layering are not widespread anymore. The modern industry of Kantha is generally known as a set of embroidery techniques.
The History of Kantha Embroidery
Image – Itokri
Tracing its history back to the earliest written record, this practice dates back to more than 500 years ago. The poet Krishnadas Kaviraj wrote in his book Sri Sri Chaitanya Charitamrita how Chaitanya’s mother sent a homemade Kantha to her son in Puri. Kantha had humble beginnings in the rural setting of Bengal and almost vanished in the early 19th century. As a part of the rural reconstruction program, the Kantha stitch was revived during the 1940s by Protima Devi.
The Partition of India in 1947 posed a giant hurdle for the Kantha craft. As the conflict between India and Eastern Pakistan (which is now Bangladesh) ensued, the commoners waded through the murkiest waters in the history of the country. Kantha began to experience its rebirth after the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971. Finally, it was revived as a traditional craft of esteemed heritage and developed into the contemporary industry.
The labor-intensive textile of Kantha is influenced by several factors, including climate, geography, economy, and material availability. The traditional method involved stitching together old clothes, like cotton sarees, dhotis, and lungis, which had become incredibly soft due to continuous wear. The thread for the Kantha stitch was drawn from the fabric itself, and the design was then embellished. The Kantha, thus, is a brilliant craft engaging with resourcefulness and recycling.
Layering five to seven fabrics together, the lighter coloured clothes were generally used as the outermost fabric to ensure better visibility of the stitch and pattern.
The chosen pieces of layering fabrics were first cut in desired shapes and sizes. Then, they were spread out and ironed. In the beginning, they were given loose stitches about the edges to hold the cloths together. After this, the finer, stronger Kantha stitches are made, starting from one corner and moving in parallel lines.
Kantha on cotton fabric is much easier than on the modern silk layers that many artisans resort to nowadays. The traditional preference of cotton ensures firmer and quicker embroidery as it doesn’t slip, unlike the silk fabrics.
Earlier, the women of most households in rural Bengal were skilled at Kantha. They devoted whatever time they could squeeze out from their daily responsibilities towards stitching the cloth pieces. It often took months or years to complete one Kantha. The craft was much valued and passed down through generations.
Usually, in modern times, ‘Kantha’ specifically refers to the type of stitch used. The earliest style of Kantha stitch is the basic, straight running stitch. The modest embroideries allowed women to incorporate their imagination and beliefs. There were stories and characters of mythology, folklore, and religious themes embroidered into the fabric. The dreams and values of life that are subjective to the individual artisans also found their path into the designs.
Over time, the ‘Nakshi Kantha’ developed, which has fantastic intricate patterns. The name Nakshi comes from the Bengali word, “naksha”, referring to artistic designs. The motifs on Nakshi Kantha are influenced by religious and cultural themes and also derived from the daily lives of these women. There are no stringent rules of design for Nakshi Kantha. However, often a lotus was woven as a focal point, surrounded by birds, fish, plants and other elements of nature.
Image – Pixabay
The district of Murshidabad, West Bengal, is home to over 1400 Kantha makers today. Most artisans emphasize on a specialized style of Kantha called Par Tola, embossed with fine geometric patterns. The stitching style of this Kantha is looping the threads on one side of the surface. Thus the reverse side remains simple with just the straight running stitch, while the beautiful patterns draw attention on the front side.
Other than the above mentioned forms, Kantha also has other categories based on the type of its stitch:
Lik or Anarasi Kantha: The word ‘Anarasi’ is derived from the name of the pineapple fruit called Anaras in Bengali. It is usually practiced in the Chapainawabganj and Jessore areas of northern Bangladesh and has several variations of form.
Lahori Kantha or ‘Wave’ Kantha: It is most popular in Rajshahi, Bangladesh. It has three primary forms of stitching: the simple straight stitch, the “kautar khupi”, meaning ‘pigeon coop’, or triangle stitch, and the “borfi” or diamond stitch.
Sujni Kantha: It is mainly found in the Rajshahi area of Bangladesh. A popular motif is floral or vine that is stitched in undulated patterns.
The Cross-stitch or carpet Kantha was introduced during the British Rule in India.
Kantha Embroidery Techniques
The technique used today in the modern Kantha industry incorporates a variety of stitches. These include darning stitch, loop stitch, satin stitch, and stem or split stitches. The ideal dotted look associated with Kantha is created when the long-running stitches are broken by short stitches on the reverse side.
The artisans decide the ornate patterns and then trace them onto a fabric panel. The design technique of ‘modelling’, for example, uses rows of parallel stitches that are tightly packed to emphasise a central embroidery. Areas of contrast are created by adjusting the density of stitches. While traditional Kantha is inspired by spiritual patterns, like the mandala or the lotus flower, contemporary designs are more symbolic and metaphorical.
Few of the distinct Kanthas sewn across Bengal and Bihar include small bags called ‘archilata kantha’, heavy quilts called ‘lep kantha’, and the decorative ‘sujani kantha’ used during religious ceremonies.
In earlier times, Kantha embroidery served as an item for utilitarian purposes. Since it was a tradition of the women to pass it on to the next generation, they made Kantha over a long period. It was used by the entire family, and each household in Bengal had Kanthas for varying personal purposes. Other times, they were given as gifts during occasions, like weddings, from one woman to another.
Usually, Kantha doubled as a quilt for warmth during the mild winters and monsoon nights of Bengal. It was also used as a swaddle for babies. Expectant mothers stitched the quilt by themselves as it was believed to protect the baby and bring good fortune to the family. Kanthas would also be created in specific shapes to use them as satchels and purses. It was used as rugs on the floor and also as prayer mats and pillow covers.
Kantha of Today
Kantha embroidery has seen major commercialization during modern times. It is still used in several households in Bengal but has also found its glamourous way into the fashion trends. Today, shawls, pillow covers, dupattas, and even some home furnishings exhibit the Kantha embroidery.
Majority of the production is centered in the eastern region of India and also aimed for the export market. The Kantha industry has given the rural women of Bengal an important source of income and employment, but the artisans have yet not been released from the exploitation, as it is in every handicraft sector.
Goa is an exciting area in India that is one of the top places to explore on vacation. The best way to explore this beautiful city, especially if you are on a budget, would hire a motorbike. Goa is well-known for its picturesque destinations, beaches, and nightlife, so it attracts so many visitors each year.
Apart from the beautiful scenery and beaches, the cuisine is also fantastic, with many restaurants to choose from. Cars and bikes are some of the best ways to discover this city, allowing you to explore at your leisure. Renting a bike in Goa will enable you to drive on all the main roads and highways, offering an easy way to explore and enjoy the entire city’s sights.
If you have decided to hire a motorbike in Goa, here are a few tips to ensure your safety and to make the experience more enjoyable:
Make Sure You Have Driving Permit
Before you get a bike on rent in Goa, you must ensure that you have a national driver’s license (valid). The International Driving Permit (the 1949 version) is also a requirement before you can drive in India. It is also important to travel with the insurance documents and the RTO registration of the vehicle. You will be asked to produce these documents if the police stop you.
A Helmet Is Must
When hiring a non-geared or geared scooter or motorcycle called a bike in Goa, you are also required to wear a crash helmet that is Goa Traffic Police approved before you will be allowed to ride on any of the highways in Goa. Road transport authorities and the police are extremely strict and particular when it comes to riders that don’t wear a helmet when riding on a highway.
Follow The Traffic Rules
When you are riding your motorcycle, ride as far as you can to the left side. The right-hand and center of the road is dedicated to four-wheel vehicles and is usually used only for overtaking. You also need to be very careful before you turn left at any crossroad since any vehicle that is turning right, which includes buses and lorries, will most likely be on your path.
Forget about everything that you know or were taught about overtaking abroad. When you ride on Goa’s roads, you will quickly notice how motorists will overtake on both the right and left. They also don’t signal that they are about to overtake, making for dangerous and unnerving situations. Simultaneously, motorists will also turn right or left without using the indicators on their vehicles.
It is also essential that you know that there is a lot of hooting and honking that goes on while driving on Goan roads. It is the way motorists get the attention of pedestrians or other motorists. For this reason, we encourage that you honk as much as you can since this is used to encourage safety on the roads. It will also alert other drivers and pedestrians of your presence.
Before you turn right or left on any of the roads in Goa, raise either your left or right arm, and point to the way you wish to turn. This step is suggested since motorists driving behind you might not notice the indicator on your bike (they are also not accustomed to looking for them either). You may feel silly or strange using your arm, but we feel it is far better to be safe than to be sorry.
The brake lights on many of the vehicles in Goa are usually non-functional. It is essential to keep a lookout for trucks, buses, and other public transport vehicles that will often stop suddenly to drop off or pick-up new passengers. Delivery vehicles also do the same thing to collect or deliver goods. It is also common to see vehicles stopping so that they can chat with friends.
When you ride a scooter or motorbike at night in Goa, it is essential to be extremely cautious when it comes to oncoming traffic and vehicles since many only have a single headlight working. In contrast, some have no headlights at all. It is also very common for drivers and riders to not turn on their headlights at night.
Make Sure Your Petrol Tank Is Full
Make sure you stop at all the petrol stations along the way to keep your fuel tank full. If you do run out, your only option would be to buy contaminated or compromised fuel sold in 1-liter plastic bottles on the side of the road. This often leads to breakdowns.
When you are riding along a road or even the highway, you should also always be on the lookout for stray and unexpected animals. It is common to encounter cows, dogs, pigs, buffalo, and many ox carts. It is common to see people pushing around ice-cream carts or many people riding with very overloaded and unstable motorcycles, scooters, or pushbikes.
Final Thoughts
The tips mentioned in this article should not deter you or scare you when riding a bike in Goa. Renting a motorbike or a scooter is still the cheapest, most exciting, and best way to smell, hear, and see Goa. With a bit of caution and common sense, it will be an enjoyable experience exploring the sights and sounds of a beautiful city like Goa.
Most people choose to avail a home loan to purchase the house of their dreams. However, lenders have eligibility clauses and only those borrowers that fulfil these requirements can qualify for the loan. For starters, if you are a salaried individual, you would need to have a good credit score as well as payment history to prove your creditworthiness. But what about individuals who are not actively earning, such as senior citizens? Won’t it become hard for them to avail a home loan? Let’s find out.
Most lenders are hesitant to offer loans to people aged 60 and over, especially if they do not have a regular income. Also, home loan interest rates might be slightly higher for older people and senior citizens than what is available to younger loan applicants. This is based on the lower mortality of the older applicants. But with proper planning and some adjustments, you can surely get the required home loan amount at an affordable interest rate.
Here are some tips for senior citizens who are planning to avail a home loan.
Have a good credit score
To be eligible for any loan, a borrower needs to have a good credit score. A credit score over 750 can make the home loan application process quite easier. However, you should avoid making multiple loan applications with different lending institutions as it will have a negative effect on your credit score.
Getting a co-applicant to apply for the loan
A senior citizen can apply for a loan by adding a co-applicant. By doing this, the borrowers’ financial stability increases as the repayment is shared between the two co-applicants. However, ensure that the younger co-applicant has a good credit repayment history to be approved as a co-signee on the loan.
Provide collateral on loans
As senior citizens do not have a regular income, their eligibility for a home loan drops. To qualify for the loan, a senior applicant can pledge a high-value collateral as security, such as equity shares or mutual funds. Doing so will reduce the risk involved for the lenders and improve the chances of loan approval.
Having a low loan-to-value ratio
Paying more towards the down payment (DP) is another way of getting a home loan, which will also result in a shorter loan tenure. This allows lending institutions to be able to trust the borrower as most of the amount is paid in advance despite the applicant’s ‘retired’ status. This method is most effective for those with decent liquid savings at hand. Pairing up with a younger co-applicant will further improve the chances of home loan approval.
Eligibility Criteria
Given below is the basic criteria for home loan eligibility:
The applicant must be an Indian citizen.
S/he must have a work experience of at least 03 years.
Must have a CIBIL score of over 650.
Must be between 23 and 70 years of age to apply for a home loan.
Documents required
Mentioned below are the basic documents one requires to apply for a home loan.
Identity proofs, such as Aadhaar card/passport/PAN card/driving license, etc.
Address proofs such as Aadhaar card/passport/electricity bill, etc.
Form 16 or your latest salary slip.
Bank statements for the last 03 months.
While following the above tips and tricks will not ensure that senior (older) citizens get a home loan, it will definitely make it that much easier to avail one. Also, it is advisable to check on your loan eligibility and calculate your EMIs with the help of an eligibility calculator and a home loan EMI calculator. Ensure that you understand the services offered by various lenders before opting for the one that offers favourable home loan terms and benefits.
