Folk Dances of Meghalaya, Expressions of Free-spirited Souls

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January 18, 2023

Folk-Dances-of-Meghalaya — Image – Wikimedia

Meghalaya is one of the most beautiful places in India and is known for its rich biodiversity, culture, heritage, customs and traditions. The place is filled with natural beauty, hills and mountains, gorgeous landscapes and has peacefulness and tranquility. Meghalaya is home to various tribes and communities some of which are the Garo, Khasi and Jaintia tribes. All these tribes and communities have their own culture, traditions, and distinct features like their outfits, food or even their folk dance forms. All these tribes have their own dance forms and way of celebrating. Dance is a very important part of the culture of Meghalaya as no celebration, festival or event is complete without it.

The people of Meghalaya express their feelings whether it is of joy, excitement, thanksgiving or sorrow through dance. There are ceremonial dances, agricultural dances, religious dances which they dedicate to the heavenly deities and even dances performed for the sole purpose of having fun and being free-spirited. The people of Meghalaya associate and perform their dances on all the events and occasions whether it is birth, marriage, festivals or even death. Some of the famous folk dances of Meghalaya have been listed below. To learn more about them, let’s take a look:

1. Behdienkhlam

Folk Dances of Meghalaya-Behdienkhlam-1 — Image Source

This is one of the most popular and main tribal dance festivals of the Jaintia tribe in Meghalaya. Bahdienkhlam is celebrated annually in the month of July at the onset of the monsoon season after the sowing period. The people of the Jaintia tribe pray to God and invoke blessings for a healthy harvest and they do this by celebrating this dance festival. As agriculture is their main occupation and primary source of income, it is important for them to pray for a healthy harvest and to avert and keep off any disease and plague or infection. This is why this folk dance has an important place in the hearts of the people of Jaintia tribe.

2. Nongkrem Dance

Folk Dances of Meghalaya Nongkrem Dance — Image Source

Ka Pom-Blang Nongkrem or Shad Nongkrem, also otherwise known commonly as Nongkrem dance, is one of the main tribal folk dances of the Khasi tribe in Meghalaya. The Nongkrem dance is basically a religious dance and is one of the most important to the Khasis as through this dance festival, the people of the tribe thank their god and deities for a good and healthy harvest and prosperity. They dedicate this dance to Goddess Ka Blei Synshar to appease and propitiate her for their harvest. They celebrate it in the autumn season during October-November every year at Smit, the capital of the Khyrim Syiemship near Shillong. The ceremony is performed by the Syiem of Khyrim and the high priest. During the ceremony, goats and cocks are sacrificed as offerings. After the ceremony is over, the Nongkrem dance begins which is performed by the unmarried girls who don beautiful and gorgeous attire, gold and silver ornaments and jewellery and yellow flowers. They dance forward and backward within a circle with their male partners also dancing in a wide circle, holding an open sword in one hand and a white yak-hair whisk in the other.

3. Shad Suk Mynsiem

Folk Dances of Meghalaya-Shad Suk Mynsiem — Image – Wikimedia

Shad Suk Mynsiem, also known as Shad Weiking, is also a thanksgiving dance of the Khasi tribe. It is an annual spring dance organized during the month of April and celebrated for a period of three days. The literal translation of Shad Suk Mynsiem is ‘Dance of the Blissful Heart’. The dance takes place in the Khasi hills and the people of the Khasi tribe dance to celebrate the harvest and planting season. The dance is performed by unmarried women and men. The dancers wear colorful and vibrant outfits and jewellery. The men wear colorful silk dhotis, plumed turbans and coats while the women dancers wear gorgeous silk robes and act or look like angels. The men dance with sword or spear in one hand and plume in the other hand. In the dance, the women form groups of two or three and form the inner circle and dance with very little steps at a time. The men, who are carrying swords and spears in their hands, form the outer circle which is like a protective layer. Shad Suk Mynsiem is basically done to express blissfulness and thanksgiving. The dancers are accompanied by Tangmuri, the queen of musical instruments, which are basically drums and flutes.

4. Wangala Dance

Folk Dances of Meghalaya-Wangala Dance — Image – Wikimedia

The Wangala is a dance festival celebrated mainly by the people of the Garo tribe. It is one of their major dance festivals. It is celebrated in the autumn after the harvest season. The Wangala festival is celebrated to propitiate and appease the deity “Patigipa Rarongipa” for which the festival includes several ceremonies. These are held in all villages. The festival is four days and nights long, at the end of which the Wangala dance is performed. The festival is completed with all the people of the tribe dancing with joy and excitement. On the last day, “Dance of a Hundred Drums”, which is the dance of the warriors, is performed, which is the highlight of the entire festival. The “Dance of a Hundred Drums” is a majestic and an impressive sight.

5. Doregata Dance

Folk Dances of Meghalaya-Doregata Dance — Image Source

The Doregata dance is another very interesting and popular dance ceremony in Meghalaya. It is performed mainly by the people of the Khasi tribe. This is a very fun and laughter filled celebration. There is a competition between the men and the women where the women, during the dance try to knock off the turbans of their male partners and they can do so by only using their head and no other body part. If the women succeed in this task, they win and everyone enjoys this festival. This dance is done to commemorate the war of Meghalaya wherein many Khasis have sacrificed their lives. Here, women are given priority over men and they try to take the turban off their male partners head while the men escape at any cost. After a tough and long fight, women succeed in doing the task and at last, the men surrender and everyone laughs and enjoys.

6. Laho Dance

Folk Dances of Meghalaya-Laho Dance — Image – Wikimedia

Laho dance, also known as Chipiah dance, is a part of the Behdienkhlam festival and is performed in it. This dance form is very popular among the people of the Pnar tribe. Both men and women are allowed to take part and perform the Laho dance. The dance is performed only for the purpose of entertainment and enjoyment of the people and it celebrates the free spirits of the people. This festival helps people in forgetting their problems and hardships in daily life and gives them a chance to just enjoy and have fun and laugh with each other. In this dance, the female dancers dance with two young men on each side. The girl performs by linking arms with both the boys on both her sides. They then sway their bodies back and forth. Both men and women are dressed in beautiful, vibrant and colorful attires. Another highlight of this dance form is that it is not supported by any musical instruments. Instead, a man with a sweet and strong voice and talent recites ribald couplets while performing the dance. The man, also known as ‘cheerleader’ does impromptu humorous recitations which supports the dance performance.

7. Ka Shad Shyngwiang-Thangiap

Folk Dances of Meghalaya-Ka Shad Shyngwiang-Thangiap — Image – Wikimedia

This dance is performed mainly by the people of the Khasi tribe. Instead of spending days in sorrow after someone dies, the Khasi people like to commemorate death by celebrating till the last rites of the deceased person are over. This is a ceremonial dance to express sorrow. It starts on the day of the death, outside the kitchen floor and ends when the last rites of the person are done. The dancers are supported by men who play music on flute, drums and bamboo poles.

Conclusion

Now that we have learned about some of the famous folk dance forms of Meghalaya, we have an idea as to how rich their culture and traditions are. The people like to include dance and music in everything they do, whether it is their harvest season or post-harvest season, giving thanks, enjoying and having fun, celebrating festivals and even expressing sorrow when a person dies and celebrating their journey and the life that they lived. This shows how actively the people of Meghalaya participate in things to keep their culture and heritage alive and rich.

Luxurious Trains of India, Experiencing Rich Indian Culture on Wheels

By

Cscope Staff

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January 16, 2023

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Luxurious-Trains-of-India — Image – Luxury Train Club/Flickr

India’s railways are the veins and arteries that keep the country’s heart beating, stretching to nooks and crannies that no jet could ever reach and connecting 1.38 billion people with friends and family. Whether you are checking your IRCTC PNR status before your journey or planning an upcoming trip, there’s a train journey to fit every travel need and budget — from 10-minute commuting rides to spectacular four-day treks across the subcontinent. Local trains move millions of people around major cities including Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai, while sumptuous luxury locos allow passengers to travel the nation in style.

Luxurious-Trains-of-India-02 — Image – Luxury Train Club/Flickr

Certain childhood experiences stick with us for the rest of our lives. Many of us remember those thrilling train rides we used to take with our loved ones before flying became the norm. Traveling by train back then meant buying our favourite comics and snacks, sipping tea, playing card games, and seeing the changing vistas outside. These excursions have gone a long way from the days when we brought our own boriya-bistar, heard the tea vendor’s typical “chai garam, garam chai,” and sipped water from a surahi. If the thought of travelling back in time to experience the splendours of royalty appeals to you, luxury trains in India may well exceed your expectations. These luxury trains in India cater to those who wish to see the country’s rich cultural history in elegance. Their richness can be observed in their breathtaking décor, fantastic ambiance, delicious gastronomic cuisine, strict security measures, and almost everything else you can think of.

1. Palace on Wheels

Luxurious Trains of India, Palace on Wheels — Image – Wikimedia

Palace on Wheels is India’s first luxury train, which began operations on January 26, 1982. It is, undoubtedly, one of India’s best luxury trains for royalty. It is an incredibly regal occasion, originally meant to cater for the kings of Gujarat, Rajputana, the British Viceroy, and the Nizam of Hyderabad, complete with luxurious amenities and two separate dining options. With 14 coaches named after pre-independence Rajput kingdoms, the saloons include specially carved inlaid themes, wall to wall carpeting, all furniture done in the richest materials, and only the most friendly and traditionally costumed crew. Television sets, separate pantry and toilet facilities with each coach, and a personal attendant are just a few of the amenities provided abroad. Palace on Wheels, launched by the Indian Railways to promote Rajasthan tourism, is a pioneer in the world of ultra chic travel, and is positioned at the helm of luxury trains in India.

2. Deccan Odyssey

Luxurious Trains of India, Deccan Odyssey — Image – Luxury Train Club/Flickr

The Deccan Odyssey boasts one of the most eye-catching regal coaches, dipped in indigo and embellished with golden embellishments, in the most royal of royal blue. It is operated by the Maharashtra MTDC and the Indian Railways and was established to promote Maharashtra tourism. Apart from a critically regarded restaurant on board, ten of the Deccan Odyssey’s twenty-one coaches are allocated for the most opulent uses, such as a bar, conference cart, and even a health spa.

With ten itineraries designed for every potential travel subject, from tourism to spirituality, booking a luxury train ride has never been easier. The coaches, which are named after different areas in Maharashtra, are encased in luxury and elegance, with state-of-the-art blue and gold themed décor and Marathi themes. If touring central and southern India is on your bucket list, this is the place to go.

3. Maharajas’ Express

Luxurious Trains of India,Maharajas’ Express — Image – Luxury Train Club/Flickr

Consider a top-tier tour of culturally rich Rajasthan and other areas indicative of Indian history, combined with top-tier five-star amenities suitable for a monarch, and the Maharajas’ Express will not only meet but exceed your expectations. The Maharajas’ Express, as its name suggests, provides luxurious amenities for the classiest and wealthiest passengers. The Maharajas’ Express is easily among the most opulent forms of transportation, having won the title of “The World’s Leading Luxury Train” twice in a row in 2012 and 2013, as well as being Asia’s most costly train.

Five well-planned journeys that take into account the diverse needs of the guests. Passengers can choose between two routes encompassing the ‘Golden Triangle’ of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, as well as three pan-Indian journeys. The Maharaja’s Express, India’s most opulent and luxury train in its class, demands respect and at least one trip in a lifetime.

4. Royal Rajasthan on Wheels

Luxurious Trains of India, Royal Rajasthan on Wheels — Image – Luxury Train Club/Flickr

Royal Rajasthan on Wheels, modelled after the Palace on Wheels, is one of India’s luxury trains particularly constructed for a full tour of the culturally rich Rajasthan. It was inspired by the Palace of Wheels and started for the same reason. The interiors of this luxury train in India have been tastefully decorated in the style of Rajasthani royal palaces, and each non-residential coach, such as the two restaurant coaches, the spa coach, and the souvenir coach, sport extremely individualistic designs and are thematically designed with nothing less than royalty in mind.

The Swarn Mahal coach, fashioned in gold and brass combinations, and the Sheesh Mahal coach, embellished with crystal pelmets and towering floor lights, are particularly remarkable. Royal Rajasthan is your best choice for a well-rounded tour of the state steeped in a royal past and a rich legacy.

5. Golden Chariot

Luxurious Trains of India, Golden Chariot — Image – Luxury Train Club/Flickr

The beautiful and gentle yet commanding violet and gold exterior of the luxury train coaches is sufficient to capture your attention, and as if that isn’t enough, the Golden Chariot, which takes its name from the chariot sculpture in the Hampi ruins, has a tasteful interior decoration along the lines of South Indian architecture that is mesmerising. It is one of the more recent additions to India’s luxury train fleet.

The Golden Chariot is an overwhelming experience for the senses, making it to the list of most luxurious trains in India, from the lounge bar, ‘Madira,’ which draws its decor from Mysore palaces, to the coaches, which draw strongly from Mysore and Hoysala architectural movements with state of the art carvings adorning the walls and ceilings. The gastronomic selections are excellent, with a full vegetarian and non-vegetarian cuisine, and the residential coaches are outfitted with state-of-the-art uninterrupted luxury amenities and elegantly carved furnishings.

The Golden Chariot, which draws passengers from all over the world, is indeed a golden chance for those who wish to discover the finest of South Indian history.

6. Royal Orient

Luxurious Trains of India, Royal Orient — Image – Luxury Train Club/Flickr

This train rolls in royalty. This majestic train goes from Gujarat to Rajasthan, stopping at popular tourist attractions including Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Junagarh, Veraval, and Somnath. There are 13 magnificent blue coaches, and each saloon has an attached toilet, as well as two attendants who will serve you around the clock.

The Royal Orient delivers meals suited for Rajput monarchs, featuring Indian, Chinese, Continental, Gujarati, and Rajasthani options. The Watering Hole is a well-stocked bar that offers both Indian and international liquor around the clock. The train also offers a library with a vast selection of books and publications, as well as a charming lounge with a television and a CD player.

Travel from Junagarh’s fort to Jaipur’s palaces, stopping for desert safaris and other scenic trips along the way. It is an excellent opportunity for people interested in exploring Northern India’s forts, palaces, and monuments.

7. Fairy Queen

Luxurious Trains of India, Fairy Queen — Image Source

Fairy Queen is well-known as the world’s oldest rolling locomotive and is appropriately classified as a historic train. The railway began its voyage in 1855 and ran until 1908, when its regular operations were terminated owing to various factors. In July 1997, the Indian Railways resumed the trip of this historic train, which began in Delhi and continues to Alwar. A visit to the famed Sariksa Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-do here.

Fairy Queen features two coaches, one of which is an air-conditioned vehicle with a seating capacity of 50 passengers. This coach has been particularly created, and the seats can also recline, making the travel more comfortable. In addition, there is a well-kept pantry vehicle for catering purposes. The train also features a lounge in front of the passenger carriage with a huge window providing a wonderful outside view.

The Fairy Queen historic train tour is a one-night/2-day journey with no overnight stay aboard the train. During the stay, guests can participate in a variety of cultural activities that are held in the evening. During the voyage, passengers get the opportunity to see several historical landmarks in Delhi, Alwar, and the world-famous Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary, where they may enjoy the facility of a Jeep Safari to explore the beautiful wildlife.

8. The Mahaparinirvan Express

Luxurious Trains of India, The Mahaparinirvan Express — Image – Wikimedia

The Mahaparinirvan Express is a Buddhist Pilgrim Train that travels through all of India and Nepal’s important Buddhist locations. The newest effort of the IRCTC (Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation), it is an 8-day trek throughout India to all of the holy Buddhist monuments. Its amenities and wonderfully designed itinerary have earned the hearts of both Buddhist pilgrims and visitors since its inception in 2007.

The Mahaparinirvan Express Tour is an intricately organised 8-day journey that begins and concludes in Delhi. It brings you to India’s most prominent Buddhist pilgrimage sites, such as Bodhgaya, Varanasi, Sarnath, Lumbini, and Sravasti. This well-planned schedule not only brings you to the most important Buddhist sites, but also allows you to enjoy sightseeing in Buddhist-related locations.

Traveling aboard the Mahaparinirvan Express is a wonderful experience, especially in terms of lodgings. The train has three types of accommodations: first class, first class coupe, and second class.

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourist Corporation (IRCTC) in partnership with state tourism agencies operates luxury trains that redefine happiness and deliver luxury worth every penny . So, the next time you plan a vacation to India, take a ride on one of the country’s luxury trains to discover what all the hype is about. After all, the best replies are based on personal experience. So, read over this list of luxury trains in India and plan a trip to India to enjoy an amazing sumptuous experience on these trains and have the time of your life!

How to Make Cocoa Butter Face Cream at Home

By

Cscope Staff

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January 16, 2023

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Theobroma Oil, often known as cocoa butter, is a pale yellow fat derived from the cocoa bean. Ointments, cosmetics, and medications are all made with it. Cocoa butter smells like cocoa. Because its melting temperature is just below that of human skin, it is easily absorbed. This butter is packed with antioxidants, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, giving it a wide range of skincare benefits.

Although there is a broad variety of products on the market, their adverse effects on the skin make them unsuitable. Companies are more concerned with making a profit than with making people happy, so make your own Cocoa Butter face cream at home. This article will present you with easy-to-follow, low-cost recipes to attempt at home.

Benefits of Homemade Cocoa Butter Face Cream

Moisturize Skin: Cocoa butter is abundant in fatty acids, making it ideal for use as a key ingredient in skin creams. The fatty acids aid in skin hydration. Cocoa butter’s fat forms a protective barrier that keeps moisture in and keeps your skin from drying out.

Anti-aging: Cocoa Butter has a high concentration of vitamin E and fatty acids, which helps to balance the skin’s sebum while also reducing pore size for a smoother appearance. Its anti-hyperpigmentation and skin-tone-improving properties reduce melanin production.

Protect Against Sun Damage: UV radiation can affect the texture of your skin, damage your cells, and possibly increase your risk of skin cancer. VedaOils’s Cocoa butter polyphenols may protect your skin from damaging UV radiation and reduce your chance of skin damage.

DIY Recipes of Homemade Cocoa Butter Face Cream

Cocoa butter is high in amino acids and fatty acids, and producing cocoa butter face cream is straightforward and inexpensive, requiring fewer ingredients and effort. We’ve offered easy-to-follow recipes for you to try.

Cocoa Butter Creamy Lotion For Face And Body

Ingredients
Virgin Olive Oil – 1 cup
Cocoa Butter – 1/4th cup
Beeswax – 3 tablespoon
Pomegranate Seed Oil – 2 tablespoon
Vitamin E oil – 2 teaspoons
Rose Water – ½ cup
Lavender Essential oils – 12-15 drops

Recipe and How to use

In a mixing basin, combine cocoa butter, beeswax, and olive oil. Place it over a low-heat double boiler. While heating, constantly whisks until the ingredients are completely melted and have a smooth texture.
Remove the pot from the heat and set it aside to cool for 15 minutes.
Fill a blender halfway with the contents and blend at medium speed.
Toss in the concentrated oil and Vitamin E oil. After 1-2 minutes, slowly add the hydrosol to the mixture.
Blend for a few minutes more until you get the desired consistency.
Blend with the essential oils of your choice for another 30 seconds.
Remove the lid from the blender and pour the contents into a glass jar. Before closing the lids, let it cool.
Keep the cream refrigerated to extend its shelf life.

Cocoa Butter for Daily Face Moisturizer

Ingredients
Virgin Coconut oil – ½ cup
Cocoa butter – ½ cup
Vitamin E Oil – 1 teaspoon
Frankincense Essential Oil – 20 drops
Lavender essential oil – 15 drops

Recipe and How to use

In a double boiler, melt the coconut oil and cocoa butter together.
Allow it to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes after it has melted.
Toss in some essential oils to the mix.
Wait for it to partially firm before whipping it with a hand blender until it has a buttery consistency.
To keep the coconut oil from melting, store it in a glass container and keep it refrigerated.

Homemade Cocoa Butter Regular Use Face Cream

Ingredients
Virgin Coconut oil – 1 tablespoon
Cocoa butter – 2 ½ tablespoon
virgin olive oil – ½ tablespoon

Recipe and How to use

Keep the container of coconut oil in a bowl of hot water to melt it.
In a small saucepan, combine all of the ingredients and melt over low heat.
Allow cooling somewhat before pouring into a glass jar.
Shake the jar briskly at least three times every several minutes.
After the liquid has solidified, it will be used as a face cream.

Homemade Cocoa Butter Moisturizer for Dry Skin

Ingredients
virgin coconut oil – ¼ cup
Cocoa butter – ¾ cup
virgin olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Peppermint Essential Oil – 15 drops

Recipe and How to use

In a microwave-safe bowl or pan, combine all ingredients and heat until the coconut oil and cocoa butter is completely melted.
Fill a container with a tight-fitting lid.
As the mixture cools, vigorously shake it a few times.
It won’t be long before the mixture has the consistency of cream and is ready to use.

Conclusion

We’re sure you’re excited now that you’ve seen the benefits and applications of cocoa butter, and you’ve learned about the recipes and ingredients needed to make them. Homemade cocoa butter skin moisturizer is vitamin-rich and rarely causes allergic reactions in its users, but a patch test is recommended.

It is always preferable to use homemade goods because they give you healthy and organic alternatives to potentially harmful chemicals. These recipes’ contents can also be used in other DIYs, and they have a long shelf life, so if you haven’t tried them yet, do so soon

What is the Binance Token (BNB)?

By

Cscope Staff

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January 16, 2023

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There are thousands of cryptocurrencies on the stock market. However, only a few really stand out among them. Today, BNB is among the most influential cryptocurrencies on the market. It is actually a coin created by Binance to serve as the “engine” for its Binance Smart Chain (BSC) network.

Although it is not one of the coins with the highest value or market capitalization, BNB presents a really solid project. Find out more about the BNB, what it’s for, and its key features below.

What is the BNB?

Launched in 2017, BNB is an ERC-20 token that runs on the Ethereum network. When it launched, Binance sold about 200 million BNB coins. After that, the platform decided that it was necessary to launch its own network and so the Binance Smart Chain blockchain was born.

Unlike other cryptos, it is therefore not possible to mine BNB. In fact, this is because there is a fixed number of BNB tokens and all of these tokens have already been issued on the market.

Furthermore, Binance has implemented a quarterly “burn” procedure in order to balance the price of the cryptocurrency on the market. In this sense, the company expects to burn a total of 100 million BNB will be burned, which is half of the issued tokens.

As a result, the number of BNB coins in circulation is reduced to 100 million. This allows the price to remain stable over the long term. Just like Bitcoin and Ethereum, BNB is one of the strongest projects in the cryptocurrency ecosystem.

What can you do with the BNB?

One of the main criteria that has promoted the success of a crypto project is the usefulness that the project presents. When it comes to BNB, this virtual currency is useful on both the Binance Chain and the Binance Smart Chain.

In reality, this cryptocurrency has several uses. First, when you buy with BNB within the Binance Chain, you get a discount on the transaction fees.

Also, BNB can be exchanged for other cryptocurrencies such as ETH, BTC, USDT, BUSD and many others. It is also possible to use BNB to pay for goods and services. These can be both physical and digital.

Furthermore, the BNB is the main token of the Binance Smart Chain. As such, all fees (gas) within this network are paid in this currency. Similarly, BNB is used to pay commissions on the Binance DEX. You can also use your BNB tokens to participate in the various lotteries organized and offered regularly by the platform.

Should I invest in BNB?

Many people are probably wondering if it is worth investing in BNB. However, it is very important to know that just like other currencies, BNB is a utility token. This means that a significant amount of money circulates in this currency.

Currently, the BNB is the fourth-largest coin in terms of market capitalization, at $35 billion. This makes it one of the most popular currencies. Therefore, it is quite interesting to invest some of your assets in BNB. The easiest way to do so is to trade the BNB/USDT pair on any major crypto exchanges, but always remember to store your tokens on a cold-wallet for more safety.

Where to buy BNB safely?

If you are interested in BNB and want to invest in it, you can do so from the KuCoin platform. Indeed, thanks to the user-friendly interface that this platform presents, you can buy your cryptocurrencies there very easily. It also offers a multitude of features that make this site one of the best platforms for buying cryptos.

You can buy and store a very large amount of cryptocurrencies, and the KuCoin exchange also guarantees the security of your funds.

Moreover, the platform also gives you the opportunity to buy cryptocurrencies with fiat currencies. Moreover, through the peer-to-peer marketplace available on the platform, you can easily buy your cryptocurrencies with local currencies.

Let’s also note that the very intuitive nature of the platform offers a better grip to both beginners and experts.

Conclusion

BNB is a very interesting and promising currency. Moreover, its price is very affordable on the market today. So you can invest in it without spending a fortune. You should also know that BNB is backed by one of the most important companies operating in the cryptocurrency sector in the world: Binance. Therefore, it is a very solid project that you can bet on if you want to expand your portfolio.

The Manja Makers Behind Uttarayan

By

Sushmita Iyer

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January 15, 2023

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In Ahmedabad, the time around November-December is when you get a whiff of Uttarayan in the air. You know kites will be the next thing you see in the sky after the fireworks bid us goodbye; thanks to the numerous manja makers, who move into the city three months before the celebration and engage themselves in the arduous process of producing strong, abrasive strings to let the kites soar high.

In the summer of 2003, when I moved to Ahmedabad with my parents and as a ‘newbie’, I found the number of manja makers doubling by the day in November quite interesting. I figured out two things:
1. Most of them were not Gujaratis and spoke different languages, and
2. They migrated to the city in packs and coming to this part of the country before Sankranti was an annual affair.

But I wondered, why? Why would anyone throw their lives away and come down all the way to a place that gets horribly cold and dry in November? After interacting with a manjha maker from Assam, I realised that there is a possibility of earning good returns because patang baazi (kite flying) is a big deal in Gujarat!

It was a delightful sight to witness ladies making chapattis every morning on kerosene stoves on the street, while their men rubbed a thick colourful paste on strings in one quick motion. Young boys did the same thing at the other end of the strings. They dripped in sweat by the end of afternoon, took small breaks in between for tea, chatted with fellow manja makers and discussed about the market and how much they were hoping to make this year.

During the Uttarayan season, a manja maker prepares around 100 to 250 ‘charkhis’ of string every day and the dealer, who provides them the raw material, pays them one rupee for every reel they prepare. Charkhis are then sold by these dealers for anywhere around Rs.50-250. The kites are also supplied to other states such as Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Delhi and many other places in India. Over the last 10 years, the kite-making business in Gujarat has grown from Rs.100 crore to Rs.700 crore.

Uttarayan is a two-day affair in Gujarat; first, there is ‘Uttarayan’ and the day following is the ‘Vasi Uttarayan’. Every year, Ahmedabad witnesses a huge number of kite enthusiasts participating in the International Kite Festival organized on a large scale, where the who’s who in the city take part along with the locals. It is also the time when the state witnesses a surge in foreign tourists. Grown up men, young boys and girls gather on every rooftop; singing and dancing besides flying kites and scream their lungs out when their kites clash with others’.
Gujarati women, meanwhile, prepare Jalebis, Fafda, Dhokla and traditional specialty Undhiyu, a spicy vegetable dish. They then distribute these goodies to other households and get something in return, which is eventually shared with someone else. The aroma of these delicacies pervades the air. Also, not to forget the DJ parties (read booze parties in a dry state!) after a long hard day of kite flying.

Last but not the least, the Chinese lanterns or Tukkal light up the sky, that most certainly will make you wonder if they are celebrating Diwali again! In short, it is what Dussehra is to Mysoreans (minus the drinks, I suppose!). This is all made possible to a large extent because of the manja makers who toil every day until January 13 to produce a strong string that would have an edge over the others.

However, there is a lot more here than what meets the eye. Besides noticing a new manja stand every day, I also noticed the diversity that existed, for these manja makers all spoke in different languages and if not the language, the dialect seemed to differ. One could say that a mini India existed in every corner, in the background of a colourful charkhi.

Sometimes, the newspapers talked about rising cases of bird injuries due to manjha kites. A bird rescuer in Ahmedabad estimated that 2,000 birds including pigeons, eagles and vultures are injured every year during the Uttarayan season and around 500 of them die from their injuries. Shockingly, the Bird Conservation Society of Gujarat state that at least 100 species of bird, including many endangered species, were injured last year. However, that did not deter people from buying manjas.

We were now just a week away from Uttarayan and half the sky was already covered with colourful kites of different sizes. The streets had an opposite tale, though. Loose strings of manjas thrown everywhere on the road and commuters manoeuvring their two-wheelers to keep the abrasive strings away from their vehicles.

At this point, I got to speak with one of the young boys who told me it was his first time outside of his home town. While working, he always keeps a heap full of flour-like substance and some fine glass powder which are mixed with the colour. “The mixture will be kneaded to get a paste. And then we apply first layer of colour on the strings. The second coating begins after the first coating dries off.” He explained the whole process eloquently.

But it was my naïve question, perhaps, that crushed his enthusiasm at once.

“So, will you be flying a kite and eating the sweets this time?” An odd silence ran between us for a minute, which then got stretched into two.

He finally shook his head, wiped the sweat off his forehead, and resumed work. While I stood there wishing I had kept the question to myself!

Factfile –
http://www.dnaindia.com
http://www.theguardian.com
http://www.tripigator.com
http://sandeepachetan.com
http://www.thehindu.com

Fly Kite in Gujarat on Makar Sankranti

The Monk Who Travelled The Globe, Celebrating the Strength of India

By

Levine Lawrence

-

January 11, 2023

9

Swami Vivekananda thoughts — Swami Vivekananda – Source

In 1893, two men met on a ship sailing from Japan to America. One was an Indian businessman and another was a Hindu sanyasi (monk). After they introduced to each other, the businessman asked the monk where he was heading to. The sanyasi said he was going to represent Hinduism in an international conference in America, while the businessman said he is on a mission to bring steel industry to India. For which the sanyasi replied, “My best wishes for such a beautiful mission. However, I would request you spend time to learn the metallurgical science of making steel, while you try to understand the process of making steel. I would prefer you to start a institute, a laboratory to do advanced research on the subject”. The businessman was awe struck by the sanyasi’s knowledge of science. That sanyasi was Swami Vivekananda.

swami vivekananda at a houseboat in Kashmir — Swamiji at a houseboat in Kashmir | Vivekananda.org

Swami Vivekananda is such an awe inspiring personality who towers over the visionaries that modern India has seen. Despite being a religious figure, he transcended all barriers – scientists, poets, politicians, all draw inspiration from him. Talking about Swami Vivekananda, Jawaharlal Nehru said “Rooted in the past, full of pride in India’s prestige, he was yet modern in his approach to life’s problems, and was a kind of bridge between the past of India and her present. “Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose said “Swamiji harmonized the East and the West, religion and science, past and present.” It is no surprise that he managed to inspire two differing political ideologues to speak in unison!

Born in Calcutta in 1863 as Narendranath Datta, his first spiritual encounter happened when he met Ramakrishna Paramahamsa in 1881. Although he did not initially accept Ramakrishna as his teacher and rebelled against his ideas, he was attracted by his personality and began frequently visiting him at Dakshineswar. After Ramakrishna’s death in 1884, he established the Baranagar Math and took the formal vow of sanyasi (monk) in 1887.

Journey across India

Swami Vivekananda's ancestral home in Kolkata — Swami Vivekananda’s ancestral home in Kolkata

In 1890, he left his monastery to travel around the world as a Hindu sanyasi, wandering across India and abroad. Beginning with Varanasi (Benaras) his first destination, Vivekananda travelled extensively in India for five years, visiting centres of learning and acquainting himself with diverse religious traditions and social patterns. He developed deep sympathy for the suffering of the poor and resolved to uplift the nation. Living primarily on alms, Vivekananda travelled on foot and by train with tickets bought by admirers. His sole possessions were a water pot, a staff and his books.

In 1891, Swami Vivekananda travelled to Gujarat. While travelling through the desert of Kutch, he had an experience from which he drew an important lesson of life: “For days, I used to travel on foot through the desert. Once when I was very thirsty, I searched for water and found a lake shimmering at a distance. When I approached the lake, it vanished. Then I realised it is just a mirage I had read about. So is it with this universe. We are all travelling in this mirage of the world for years, without knowing that it is just a mirage!”

In December, 1892, Swami Vivekananda arrived in Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu. He did not have any money to pay for a boat ride that would take him across to a rocky island. He plunged into the sea and swam across to get there. There he meditated for three days and had a vision. He wrote: “At Cape Camorin, sitting in Mother Kumari’s temple, sitting on the last bit of Indian rock—I hit upon a plan: We are so many sanyasis wandering about and teaching the people metaphysics—it is all madness. Did not our Gurudeva use to say, ‘An empty stomach is no good for religion?’

Travel around the world

Swami Vivekananda at Mead sisters' home in South Pasadena, US — Swamiji at Mead sisters’ home in South Pasadena, US | Vivekananda.org

Later, when he heard about the World Parliament of Religions being held in Chicago, Swami Vivekananda decided to go there to present his thoughts about Hinduism. Vivekananda started his journey on 31 May 1893 and visited several cities in Japan, China and Canada en route to the United States. The Parliament of the World’s Religions opened on 11 September 1893 at the Art Institute of Chicago. On the opening day, Vivekananda gave a brief speech that began with his famous words – “Sisters and brothers of America!”

To illustrate that all religions are equal in their efforts to reach God, Vivekananda quoted Hindu scriptures that said “As the different streams having their sources in different places all mingle their water in the sea, so, O Lord, the different paths which men take, through different tendencies, various though they appear, crooked or straight, all lead to Thee!” Despite the brevity of his speech, it voiced the spirit and sense of universality of the parliament.

Today, when we look back, it is clear that the philosophy of Swami Vivekananda is relevant during these turbulent times. Our nation is still searching for solutions to its problems that have plagued it since the times of Swami Vivekananda a century ago. The businessman he met on a ship was none other than Jamsetji Tata, who was so inspired by his words, that he decided to establish India’s first scientific research institute – Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore!

On his birthday, which is celebrated as the National Youth Day in India, we salute India’s first global citizen! Swami Vivekananda – a truly global Indian!

Inspiring Quotes of Swami Vivekananda

Arise, Awake, and Stop Not Till the Goal is Reached

Inspiration does Exist, But it Must Find You Working.

Dependence is Misery. Independence is Happiness.

The Gift of Knowledge is the Highest Gift in the World.

Real Love is Love for Love’s Sake. I do not Ask Health or Money or Life or Salvation.

You Cannot Believe in God Until You Believe in Yourself.

All Power is Within You; You Can Do Anything and Everything.

You are the Creator of Your Own Destiny.

Conquer Yourself and the Whole Universe is Yours.

One Ounce of Practice is Worth a Thousand Pounds of Theory.

Factfile –
http://en.wikipedia.org

Belur Math | The Headquarters of Ramakrishna Math & Ramakrishna Mission

http://swamivivekananda-myeter…

Great Vision of Swami Vivekananda About Education

By

Pari Bhatnagar

-

January 11, 2023

2

The Early Life

Swami Vivekananda was born on 12th January 1863 with the birth name Narendranath Datta (Narendra or Naren) to father, Vishwanath Datta, a Bengali barrister, philanthropist, novelist, and an attorney at the Calcutta High Court and mother, Bhubaneswari Devi, a dedicated housewife. Swami Vivekananda’s grandfather, Durgacharan Datta, was a Sanskrit and Persian scholar who at the age of twenty-five, became a monk and had to leave his family. Swami Vivekananda was born into a prominent and respectable Bengali Kayastha family in Calcutta and had eight other siblings. From a very young age, Swami Vivekananda was interested in spirituality because of his mother’s religious nature. He even used to meditate in front of the images of gods and goddesses like Shiva, Rama, Sita, and Hanuman. He was also captivated by monks.

Vivekananda-About-Education — Image – Wikimedia

Swami Vivekananda was the only student who received first–division marks in the Presidency College’s entrance examination. He was a keen reader and was passionate about an ample range of subjects like philosophy, religion, art, social science, history, and literature. He was fascinated by Hindu scriptures such as the Vedas, the Bhagavad Gita, the Upanishads, the Ramayana, the Mahabharata, and the Puranas as well. Swami Vivekananda knew Indian classical music and he even studied Western philosophy, European history, Sanskrit scriptures, and Bengali literature. He passed his Fine Arts examination in 1881 and in the year 1884, he completed his Bachelor of Arts degree.

Swami Vivekananda’s college principal, William Hastie even wrote that Narendra (Swami Vivekananda) is a genius and that he has never came across a boy like him. He even said that Narendra is bound to make his mark in life. Swami Vivekananda can speed reading and be known for his extraordinary and vast memory which is why he was even called a shrutidhara, a person who has a prodigious memory.

Who is Swami Vivekananda?

Swami Vivekananda was a social reformer, a Hindu spiritual leader, an Indian Hindu monk, a philosopher, and a great thinker. He played an important role in introducing the Indian philosophies of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world. He attempted to combine Indian spirituality with Western global. He even brought Hinduism to the level of a major world religion.

Swami Vivekananda wanted to reform and so he joined the Brahmo Samaj which was led by Keshab Chandra Sen and Debendranath Tagore. The Brahmo Samaj was dedicated to take away infant marriage and unfold schooling among women and lower castes. He first met Ramakrishna in the year 1881 and later, in the year 1884 after his father’s death, Narendra (Swami Vivekananda) accepted Ramakrishna as his Guru. Narendra then became the chief disciple of Ramakrishna. Ramakrishna died in the year 1886 and later, Narendra and eight other disciples decided to live their lives the way their master lived. This is when Narendranath took the name “Swami Vivekananda”.

Swami Vivekananda later started visiting several countries and gave many lectures. He gave lectures for nearly two years after which he returned to India. He founded the Ramakrishna Mission on 1 May 1897 for the social service and welfare of the world. He constantly targeted teaching universal principles. Under this mission, he established many schools, colleges, and hospitals. His teachings motivated everyone. He turned into an extremely good orator and an English and Bengali writer.

Swami Vivekananda’s Views on Education

Swami-Vivekananda-Education — Image-Alreyaz Basha/Wikimedia

“What is education? Is it book learning? No. Is it diverse knowledge? Not even that. The training by which the current and expression of will are brought under control and become fruitful is called education.”

“If education is identical with information, the libraries are the greatest sages in the world and encyclopedias are the Rishis.”

“Educate and raise the masses, and thus alone a nation is possible.”

“Education is the manifestation of the perfection already in man”

These are some of Swami Vivekananda’s quotes. Swami Vivekananda embraced education. According to him, education is incomplete without the teaching of aesthetics or fine arts. The knowledge of values and not of facts was his aim of education. He saw that education now only focused on scoring high marks so that students can become doctors, engineers, lawyers, or something else with the main goal being to earn as much money as possible. He wanted to re-introduce value-based education and imbibe human values in people. He said that education should cover all parts of life like physical, intellectual, material, emotional, moral, and spiritual. His teachings were based on Ramakrishna’s spiritual teachings of the Divine manifestations.

He preached philosophies, spiritualism, and principles of Vedanta. Swami Vivekananda was a great teacher. He promoted faith in Advaita Vedanta or non-dualism. He was taught and educated that service to living beings meant service to God. He believed that a person must discover himself or herself and when that happens, it will help them in the expansion and the enrichment of their soul. He also believes that knowledge is inherent in man and it already exists in the individual. One only has to discover it. He believed that education is a part of human life and that it helps create self-confidence and self-realization and that it makes an individual aware of their hidden powers. He stressed personal contact with the teacher and that without the teacher, there won’t be education.

According to Swami Vivekananda, the ultimate aims of education are:

1. Achieve perfection – knowledge is already present in man, one has to discover it.

2. Fulfilment of Swadharma – to grow like yourself and not copy others.

3. Creating self-confidence and self-realization – one has many qualities within them but they are not conscious of it. Swami Vivekananda said that – “Faith in us and faith in God – this is the secret of greatness.”

“Wake up, rise, and do not stop till your aim of life is achieved.”

4. Unity in Diversity – individuals should develop this sense through education.

5. Formation of Character – “We want that education, by which character is formed, the strength of mind is increased, intellect is expanded and by which one can stand on one’s own feet.”

6. Personality Development – According to him, “Personality is two-third and his intellect and words are only one-third in making the real man.”

7. Physical and Mental Growth – education should aim at the physical and mental development of a child.

8. Moral, Spiritual and Religious Development – a nation’s and an individual’s greatness are possible only through these.

9. Universal Brotherhood – “Through education, we should gradually reach the idea of universal brotherhood by lining down the walls of separation and inequality. In every man, in every animal, however weak or miserable, great or small, resides the same omnipresent and omniscient soul. The difference is not in the soul, but a manifestation.”

Every year, India celebrates National Youth Day on 12th January to pay tribute to Swami Vivekananda on his birth anniversary. He died on 4 July 1902, while doing meditation.

Swami Vivekananda Quotes on Education

Education is the Manifestation of the Perfection Already in Man.

Educate & Raise the Masses, & Thus Alone a Nation is Possible.

In a Conflict Between the Heart and the Brain, Follow Your Heart.

The Secret of Life is Not Enjoyment But Education Through Experience.

The Very Essence of Education is Concentration of Mind.

There is Only One Purpose in the Whole of Life – Education.

You are the Creator of Your Own Destiny!

Take Risks in Your Life, If You Win, You Can Lead ! If You Loose, You Can Guide!

Wadas – Exploring the Traditional Houses of Maharashtra

By

Cscope Staff

-

January 9, 2023

2

Wadas Traditional Houses of Maharashtra — Image – Wikimedia

Wadas are a treasured architectural legacy in Maharashtra, symbolizing the Marathas’ pride, religion, culture, customs, and stormy past. Wadas, a type of house in the past, are now being re-used and maintained as cultural and architectural heritage.

The arrival of Mumbai, an international metropolis and home to one of the world’s largest film industries, has greatly influenced the people of Maharashtra. The inhabitants of the state are flamboyant, and they are known to spend lavishly to keep up with the current fashion trends. At the same time, Maharashtra folklore has not totally lost its traditions; they are adapting to changing circumstances while still conserving its forefathers’ legacy. Maharashtra’s people have a rich cultural heritage and beliefs, which are reflected in their religious traditions and architecture.

Maharashtra is well-known for its caverns and rock-cut structures. In the 2nd century BC, Buddhist monks pioneered the formation of these spectacular caverns in search of a tranquil and peaceful setting for meditation. Later, Hindu cave temples at Ellora and Ajanta were regarded as the best masterpieces of human art by UNESCO in 1983. Some of India’s earliest wall murals composed of natural ingredients may be seen here. Even though sculptures of the time are thought to be stiff and unmoving, the famous rock-cut caves have several distinct design elements, such as craving techniques, motifs, and depictions of various postures.

The state may be recognised as a fast-paced state, but it also maintains heritage values in its building styles, particularly in temples and the Wada Housing housing type. Wada is derived from the Sanskrit term ‘Vata,’ which signifies a plot of ground suitable for building a dwelling. The traditional ‘Wada’ dwelling featured residences of many families or simply one family that lived there. It is commonly used to describe a courtyard home mansion. This House form belonged to both the governing classes and commoners. This type is historically, culturally, and economically significant. Despite differences in size, scale, and economic standing, all wadas have some basic aspects and traits.

Elements in Wada

The roots of history and a rich cultural legacy are wrapped in the minor aspects of these constructions, which showcase the beauty, sense of style, and inventiveness of individuals who made it possible. The soul of the Maratha empire may still be found in the structures constructed during their reign. Various cultural aspects, including rituals and religion, had an impact on architectural design and layout. The shape and design evolved from their everyday activities and the places required to carry them out.

Osari:It is the verandah or transition space. It is a semi-open place for activities, such as a hallway or a spill out space.
Dewadi: It is a verandah for guards
Sadrecha Sopa: Verandah area utilised for administrative tasks that is open to the courtyard, commonly in the first or centre courtyard.
Kacheri:The administrative department is located in the first or central courtyard.
Khalbhatkhana: As known as the Negotiation Room, it was a semi-public area where talks and choices were made.
Diwankhana: It has a large living room with a large hall for formal gatherings. It is to be built close above Osari and Dewadi.
Majghar: The middle chamber. The private area is separated from the public area by this section. It is mostly used by women and family members. It’s a private room.
Devghar: A Prayer Room.
Tijory : The Treasury.
Gotha: A cow-pen in a house’s backyard.
Swayampak Ghar : The Kitchen.
Kothar: A Storeroom.

The Evolution of Wada Architecture

The Wadas of the Maratha and Peshwa periods, on the other hand, depict the era’s turmoil and customs. Some are gorgeous, while others are quiet, isolated structures on river banks. Wadas, the classic dwelling type of Maratha architecture, originated during the reign of the Peshwas. Its design was a hybrid of Mughal, Rajasthani, and Gujarati elements blended with indigenous building skills. This house design handles air and light, resulting in excellent ventilation of both, and it also addresses security or privacy issues owing to the structure’s façade. Wadas are a type of residential building that first appeared in the 18th and 19th centuries. In 1730, the notion was born during the Peshwa period. The garhis (fortified palaces) featured minimal facades, decoration, and openings, but the wadas’ facades had apertures in every structural bay, as well as highly ornate openings. Topography and climatology also had a part since, depending on the rainfall, people utilised flat roofs in certain locations and sloping roofs in others.

The appearance of the wada was also influenced by social factors such as caste and occupation. Whereas the facades of the trading community were highly ornamented, the facades of the Brahmin were plainer and simpler.

Wadas are planned in accordance with the local meteorological conditions.
In general, the layout is linear.
They are two or three-story rectangular houses with a courtyard in the centre and rooms around them.
They are two or three-story rectangular residences with a courtyard in the centre and rooms around them.
The first courtyard is designated as a public place for social gatherings, while the second courtyard is reserved for ladies-only rooms.
A well is also located within one of the courtyards of the wadas.
The main staircase for the owners led from the courtyard, while the servants’ stairway was buried between walls and could not be seen.
The three courts of the wada were used in distinct ways: the first court was used for social gatherings, leading to chambers accessed by visitors.
The second court was utilised for the ‘Kacheri’ office and was exclusively accessible to officials.
The third court was for private use, particularly by the ladies of the house, and included the kitchen, storeroom, and the balantini kholi (delivery room). It also included the tulsi vrindavan herb for religious purposes.

Dimensions of Wada

The spaces adhered to the structural grid. These structural system measurements were determined by the sort of wood available.
All of the dimensions of these homes are multiples of the khann unit bays. Different styles of doors represent the owner’s wealth and social standing. The wealthier the family, the more ornamented the door, whereas the modest doors belonged to a middle-class family.

Windows

There were two types of windows: half windows and complete windows. Depending on the weather and the role of the window panels, half windows had four opening panels, two above and two below. The entire windows featured two panes and were created with desires.

Brackets

The brackets represent the beam’s final features. These elements were influenced by Asian motifs of dragons and lotus, or were influenced by family and ancestry.

Wall Niches

It is a feature from the 18th century. It was designed to house candles or diyas, which shield the light from the wind.

Wadas have come a long way since their inception, and while not all of them have survived, these beautifully designed and decorated houses have become an important part of Maratha architecture. The wadas are distinguished from other typologies in India by their unique planning based on a square grid pattern. Though, in today’s scenario, we see a decrease and deterioration of Wadas in Maharashtra maps as they have been erected for years and can no longer withstand the changes occurring around them. Many of the restored wadas are utilised as shrines or museums, but just a handful are liveable. The wadas played an essential part in establishing Maharashtra’s architectural map since the cravings and decorating were not only established but also inspired by Indo-Saracenic, Chinese, and Rajasthani architectural styles. Dhepe Wada, Shaniwar Wada, Nana Wada, Kesari Wada, Vishrambaug Wada, Raste Wada, Bhor Rajwada, Purandare Wada in Pune, Sarkar Wada at Nashik, and Juna Wada, Gaikwad Wada in Kolhapur are a few noteworthy Wadas that have withstood the test of time and are utilised in movie sets often.

Traditional Homes of South India, Culture of Generations

By

Tasneem Sariya

-

January 9, 2023

8

The earlier part of this series highlighted the traditional homes of northern India. In this section, we shall delve into the homes of southern India and take a look at the old traditional homes that have always been the landmarks of a joint family system, a concept that has been and in many ways is still an integral part of Indian culture.

Traditional Homes of Tamil Nadu

Traditional-Homes-of-South-India-pillared-courtyard — The Pillared Courtyard – Saurabh Chatterjee via Flickr

The state of Tamil Nadu covers a large area, as well as, finds itself home to different geographies. On the eastern coast lies the Bay Bengal, whereas, on the west the Nilgiri Mountains tower. The land in between is often termed as semi – arid and hence the architecture of its traditional homes also vary in many nuances across the board. However, the basic structure does not alter much, though Tamil Nadu homes can be distinguished or classified further into sub parts. Also, the classification is not based alone on the regional variations, but also on class variations. A rich, prosperous traditional home looks different from that of a poor man. Where the poor used mud and rice husk the rich used sundried and mud bricks. However the lime plaster on the walls to reflect the sunlight remains the constant material in the building of the homes. Some other features in Tamil Nadu traditional homes that are same almost everywhere is courtyard in the interior of the house, as well as the raised verandah called the Thinnai in the front or at times all around the house, used for social functions as well as family gatherings.

Traditional-Homes-of-South-India-Tamil-Homes — Chettair House – Sowrirajan s via Flickr

Chettinad homes – The Chettinad region within Tamil Nadu merits special mention here for its type of architecture. Chettinad, home to the prosperous business community, has carved out a distinct cultural identity which reflects in its architecture, cuisine and temples. Chettinad homes characterized by their use of teak and marble, often flaunt beautiful pillars on the verandah as well as two towers on either side of the front verandah that contain rooms used exclusively to conduct business. The intricately carved front door leads to the thinnai/verandah called Muggapu where photos of the older generation of the family lie. The courtyard inside is also surrounded by pillars and leads to the various different rooms. Another courtyard at the rear of the house acts the meeting place for the women of the house who cook and socialize in its wake.

Traditional-Homes-of-South-India-Agraharam — Agraharam – Wikimedia

Brahmin Agraharam – Agraharam means a grant or royal income to Brahmins for religious purpose of building temples and sustaining their families. The agraharams have a line of Brahmin homes on both sides of the street that leads to the temple, with the temple at the village center. This layout of the Brahmin homes is in the form of a garland around the temple. This distinct form of planning is found in many areas of the state. The agraharam homes are usually single or double storied but do not have an inner courtyard.

Some other typical features of homes in Tamil Nadu include the rangoli design on the red oxide floors, an uruli, a shallow pot kept outside the entrance filled with water and floating flowers, jhoolas known as oonjal as well as Tanjore paintings and a Puja room.

Traditional Homes of Kerala

The traditional home of Kerala – Thejas Panarkandy

God’s own country is also known for its comfortable sprawling traditional homes. In spite of covering a large area and surrounded by its very own garden, Kerala traditional homes are truly what one calls ‘home’. It rings a sense of homeliness with its large airy rooms, rafters on high ceilings and wooden carved windows. The neighboring houses are not too clustered, and in fact are placed from each other at considerable distance unlike traditional homes of Tamil Nadu. Called the Parambu or Thodi the surrounding land around the houses grow fruits, vegetables and coconut trees fluttering at the periphery are not an uncommon sight at all. The layout of the homes thus reflects the way Kerala is – fertile, vegetative and always with an abundance of water. Some houses also have a well within their premise.

Nalukettu or the traditional homestead where generations of family lived together is an essential feature of Kerala. The four walls joined together with an open central courtyard, these homes have a simple layout with excellent ventilation. Worth special mention are some of the homes of Calicut, where a section of the inner courtyard is kept open to allow sunlight and rain to hit the floor directly leading to some of the best childhood memories of playing in the rain.

The boat structure outside a traditional Syrian home in Kerala – DakshinaChitra

Kerala houses too have two courtyards, one inner and the other outer. The gabled roof and the clay roof shingles are much more resistant in the wet weather. The usage of wood as a construction material is evident, the poomukham or elevated entrance of the house is used to greet guests and outsiders. The pillared verandah leads to the main beautifully carved main door. Many homes also have the granary, cowshed as well as, prayer room or practice room for martial arts such as Kalarippayattu.

Traditional Homes of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh

This southern region can again be subdivided into the Telangana, Rayalseema and coastal Andhra belt. Where on one hand, Rayalseema lies in the plateau region and is famous for black slate stone used in the floors and roofing of the homes, Telangana was predominantly influenced by Muslim architecture due to its rule under the Nizam dynasty. These homes flaunt the arches, carved screens in stone as well as Urdu calligraphy. Round circular clustered homes with thatched roofs called chuttillu or Middillu are common in coastal Andhra to help them survive strong cyclonic activity. However, these are fast disappearing giving way to modern homes.

The manduva logili homes found in the districts of Godavri, Guntur, Nellore, Vijaynagaram are characterized by the inner courtyard with rooms around or a large hall that stretches across the house. Usually made of red bricks and featuring a well thought of drainage system, the homes are adorned with wooden pillars of teak or rosewood.

Traditional-homes-Andhra-Pradesh — Manduva Logili – http://raghuscolumn.blogspot.com

The agraharams of Tamil Nadu, or the nalukettus of Kerala, the Gutthu houses of Karnataka or the wada homes of Maharashtra, traditional homes of India, are a clear reflection of what they value the most – open central places for opening conversations, the pillars that strengthen the family, the elevated verandah that rise above petty issues and the elaborately designed entrance door to welcome all with open hearts.

Traditional Homes of Karnataka

Traditional-Homes-of-South-India-Karnataka-01 — Malnad Karnataka Houses – Kreedaakaushalya.blogspot.com

In India’s towns and rural settlements, where ancient and recent are interwoven, architectural distinctiveness exists in abundance. Karnataka particularly has many such dwellings. The archaism of the architecture of Karnataka can be traced back to its southern Neolithic and early Iron Age. The upper or late Neolithic people make their shelters, constructed huts made of wattle and doab, that were buttressed by stone boulders, presumably having conical roof resting on the bamboo or wooden posts into red murram or paved granite chips as revealed in archaeological excavations in sites like Brhamagiri (Chitradurga district), Sanganakallu, Tekkalakota (Bellary district), Piklihal (Raichur district).

In the northern Karnataka area, the most widely adopted building material is stone. In the southern-west Karnataka, more timber is used to build the home rightfully pointing to the Kerala influence.

Guthu Mane

Traditional-Homes-of-South-India-Karnataka-Guttu-Mane — Image – Wikimedia

Traditional Guthu Mane were built by the Bunt community of Karnataka. Guthu Mane which means “home of prestige”. The houses were constructed meticulously and fit the requirements of the matrilineal joint families that inhabited them.

Guthu Manes were built in the centre of the estates that each family occupied.

The architecture of these homes ensued with Vastu principles. Guthu houses look like mini temples from the outside. Identified by their distinct sloping roofs with Mangalore tiles and enormous courtyards that overlook paddy fields, Guthu houses are a reminder of a bygone era. They signified the wealth and prestige that the wealthy landlords who built these houses had. Exquisite care was taken to ensure that not only did Guthu houses invoke grandeur, but keeping in mind Mangalore’s often oppressive heat and humidity as a coastal region and were built accordingly.

Traditional-Homes-of-South-India-Karnataka-Home-Veranda — Image – Facebook

The open space in front of the house beyond the main gate was known as jaal. In one section of this space, there was shade made from woven dried coconut leaves referred to as madal da dompa. They were meant to serve as protection from extreme heat. In another part of the jaal, a flat stone slab called ‘kall chapadi’ and a rock-cut container for the water called ‘kalla marai’ was kept so that guests may wash their feet before entering the home.

All Guthu houses had a veranda (Mogasale) that acted as a sit-out and beautiful doors were made from intricately carved teakwood or rosewood. Ornate and exquisitely sculpted wooden pillars decorated the interiors of the inner courtyard. These pillars supported a decorated wooden ceiling, which usually had designs of mango and floral motifs, foliage, and coin patterns. Solid wooden beams called jantis held this grand ceiling.

Traditional-Homes-of-South-India-Karnataka-Home-Interior — Image – Wikimedia

The central portion of the home – the padsale was reserved for the women of the house and was not accessible by non-bunts. The homes also possessed deverna kone or rooms devoted to worshipping deities. The first floor or malige was accessed by an ascent of stairs which led to spacious bedrooms. The kitchen, referred to as adpil, was usually located in the southeast corner of the house.

Guthu houses usually emphasised a lot of woodwork. Wooden swings where the head of the house rested, chests, cabinets, shelves, chairs, writing desks, reclining chairs and the quintessential vakil bench were all components of these homes. They all had beautifully intricate carvings, which were often inlaid with ivory.

Traditional-Homes-of-South-India-Karnataka-Guttu-Mane-Wood-Work — Image – Chandrashekar Melanta

Like the traditional homes of other cultures, Guthu houses were designed and built with a delicate balance between functionality and aesthetics. Using locally available resources and expertise to display their cultural identity, the Bunt community homes were examples of pragmatic planning and an eye for detail.

Here are some hand picked the traditional South Indian decor items you can add to your home.

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How To Make The Switch From Paper To Electronic Health Records?

By

Cscope Staff

-

January 9, 2023

0

Shifting from paper to Electronic Health Records (EHRs) can seem daunting, especially for healthcare organisations that have been using paper records for decades. However, the benefits of switching to EHRs far outweigh the challenges.

Here we will explore the benefits of using EHRs, the difference between EHRs and Electronic Medical Records (EMRs), and the steps healthcare organisations can take to switch from paper to electronic health records.

The Pain Point: The Inefficiency Of Paper Health Records

For many healthcare organiSations, paper health records have been the norm for a long time. However, there are several pain points associated with using paper records, including:

Inability to access records remotely: With paper records, it is often difficult for healthcare providers to access a patient’s health information when they are not physically at the facility where the records are stored. It can lead to delays in treatment and a lack of continuity of care.
Difficulty tracking and updating records: Keeping track of paper records can be time-consuming and error-prone. It is easy for records to get lost or for information to be recorded incorrectly.
High storage costs: Storing paper records requires significant physical space and can be costly.
Risk of data breaches: Paper records are vulnerable to being lost, stolen, or damaged, which can result in data breaches and compromise the privacy of patient information.

The Solution: Electronic Health Records (EHRs)

EHRs offer several benefits over paper records, including:

Improved accessibility: EHRs can be accessed remotely so that healthcare providers can view patients’ health information anywhere with an internet connection. It can be especially beneficial when a patient receives care from multiple providers.
Enhanced record-keeping: EHRs allow for more accurate and up-to-date record-keeping. Information can be entered into the system in real time, and changes to the record are immediately reflected. In some cases, health card is linked to EHRs, which allow healthcare providers to access a patient’s medical history and information securely and efficiently.
Reduced storage costs: EHRs eliminate the need for physical storage space and the associated costs.
Increased data security: EHRs are stored electronically, meaning they are less vulnerable to being lost, stolen, or damaged. In addition, EHRs have built-in security measures to protect against data breaches.

The Difference Between EHRs And EMRs

You must remember that there is a difference between EHRs and EMRs. EMRs are digital versions of a patient’s medical record used by a single healthcare provider or organisation. EHRs, on the other hand, are more comprehensive and can be accessed and updated by multiple healthcare providers. Additionally, health cards are physical cards issued to individuals to give them access to healthcare services.

For example, if a patient visits a primary care physician, that physician might enter the patient’s medical information into an EMR. If the patient is referred to a specialist, the specialist can access the patient’s EHR, which includes the data from the EMR and any other relevant medical information.

Steps To Make The Switch From Paper Records To EHR

Making the switch from paper to EHRs requires careful planning and consideration. Here are some steps that healthcare organisations can follow to make the transition smooth:

Assess your current system: Before moving to EHRs, you need to understand your current system and its use. This includes assessing the current state of your paper records, how they are stored and accessed, and any existing technological infrastructure.
Determine your goals: It is essential to determine your goals for implementing EHRs. Do you want to improve patient care? Streamline record-keeping? Reduce storage costs? You can decide which EHR system will best meet your goals by identifying your objectives.
Choose an EHR system: There are many EHR systems on the market, and it is essential to choose one that meets your needs and budget. Consider factors such as the system’s capabilities, user-friendliness, and integration with other systems.
Train your staff: Once you have chosen an EHR system, it is vital to provide training to ensure they are comfortable using it. It may include providing hands-on training, ongoing support, and resources for your team.
Develop a plan for data migration: If you are switching from paper records to EHRs, you will need to migrate your data into the new system. This process can be time-consuming and requires careful planning to ensure that all data is transferred accurately.
Implement and test the system: Once you have completed the steps above, it is time to implement your EHR system. It may involve rolling out the system to different departments or facilities in stages. Testing the system to ensure it functions correctly and meets your needs is also essential.
Monitor and evaluate the system: After implementing your EHR system, it is essential to monitor and assess its performance regularly. It includes tracking any issues or challenges that arise and identifying opportunities for improvement.

Conclusion

Making the switch from paper to EHRs can be complex, but it is worth it in the long run. EHRs offer numerous benefits, including improved accessibility, enhanced record-keeping, reduced storage costs, and increased data security. In addition, by carefully planning and implementing an EHR system, healthcare organisations can streamline their operations and improve patient care.