Have you ever walked through an old fort or palace in India and spotted a charming overhanging balcony with delicate lattice work, jutting out from a wall like it’s whispering a story from the past? That’s a Jharokha – one of the most graceful elements of Indian architecture, especially prominent in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Mughal-influenced…
Author: NEERJA BHATNAGAR
Indian Folklore and Its Moral Lessons
India is a treasure trove of storytelling traditions. Long before books and screens, wisdom was passed down through stories — spoken, sung, or performed. These stories were not just for amusement; they were designed to teach values, develop character, and sharpen the mind. Today, as we navigate a fast-paced world, these folktales still offer deep,…
Handwoven Heritage: The Art of Indian Textiles
A tribute to the threads that built a nation. Across India, every region has its own story—told not just in language or food, but in fabric. The loom is the storyteller, and every weave holds within it centuries of wisdom, tradition, and identity. But this story is fading, threatened by fast fashion, industrialization, and fading…
Gita Saar: Life Lessons from the Bhagavad Gita
Timeless Wisdom for Navigating Modern Challenges What if I told you that a 5,000-year-old conversation on a battlefield could help you deal with today’s stress, confusion, and daily dilemmas? Yes, that’s the Bhagavad Gita for you — a timeless guidebook hidden in plain sight! Let’s simply decode its wisdom, so even if you’ve never opened…
Festivals Beyond the Mainstream: Discovering India’s Hidden Cultural Celebrations
When we think of Indian festivals, we think about Diwali, Holi, Eid, Christmas, Navratri, and Pongal. These grand celebrations are deeply embedded in our culture and are celebrated across the country. But India’s true essence often lies in the unheard melodies—the lesser-known festivals that beat quietly but passionately in the hearts of local communities. Today,…
Ektara: The One-Stringed Musical Wonder
The Ektara, a simple yet profoundly expressive musical instrument, has resonated through the heart of Indian folk music for centuries, with its single string ( hence the name ek (one) tara (string) and humble design, it carries the power to evoke deep emotions and transport listeners to a world of melody, devotion, and storytelling. The…
Dastangoi: The Lost Art of Storytelling
Once upon a time, before books became our bedtime companions and screens took over our leisure hours, stories were told—spoken with passion, performed with flair, and woven with magic. This was the essence of Dastangoi, an ancient oral storytelling tradition that once captivated audiences across the Indian subcontinent. What is Dastangoi? Dastangoi, derived from the…
Chai Culture in India: More Than Just Tea—How Chai Binds Communities and Traditions
If there’s one thing that unites India across its diverse cultures, languages, and traditions, it’s chai. This humble yet iconic beverage is more than just a drink; it’s a ritual, an emotion, and a way of life. Whether served in a bustling railway station, a roadside tapri (stall), or a lavish drawing room, chai symbolises…
Bhajans and Their Impact on Mindset: The Power of Devotional Music in Spiritual and Mental Well-Being
Music has always played a profound role in human life, but when infused with devotion, it transforms into a powerful medium for spiritual elevation and inner peace. Bhajans—soulful devotional songs sung in praise of the divine—are an integral part of Sanatan Dharma. These songs not only invoke a deep sense of devotion but also have…
Ayurveda for Modern Life: How Ancient Ayurvedic Wisdom Can Help in Today’s Fast-Paced World
In today’s fast-paced world, stress, poor diet, and imbalances in daily routines have led to an increase in lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. While modern medicine treats symptoms, Ayurveda—India’s 5,000-year-old system of holistic healing—focuses on prevention and overall well-being. With research-backed practices, Ayurveda offers timeless solutions to modern-day health challenges. Understanding Ayurveda:…