Book review : Questions you always wanted to ask by Swami Mukundananda
Curiosity is the most basic virtue of existence. The curiosity is what keeps the world going and rising. Human, by nature, is a curious animal. Our mind generates hundreds of questions every single day. Only problem is we don’t always seek to get answers of these questions. We search for answers in various ways. While […]
Guardians of the Locals: A look into Hindu Folk Deities
The phrase folk religion or folk deity is very commonly heard in terms of culture. Every state and region in India have a set of folk deities. After the release of movie Kantara, there was wide discussion about the folk deities represented in the movie. So I thought, let’s try to answer the question : […]
Consecration in an incomplete temple at Ayodhya: A fact check
Before I start writing this post, I want to make it aptly clear. I am not associated with any political party, or do not represent or endorse views of any. I am not even a primary member of any political party, and I have friends across all party lines. Now that I have made it […]
Brushstrokes of Tradition: Exploring the Artistry of Kerala Murals
A visit to the Shiva Temple in Ettumanoor, Mattancherry Palace and Vadakkumnatha kshetram will introduce us to a very beautiful and unique painting style, called as Kerala Mural painting. Kerela Mural Paintings dates back to 12th century where this kind of art form enjoyed a royal patronage. Kerela mural paintings are the paintings depicting Hindu […]
The Art of rule : Helping you lead better
Book name : The Art of Rule : 151 Shlokas on Good Governance and Statecraf Author : Deepali Vasishtha Publication : Rupa Publications Price: 295/- Often, in my lectures, I say that leadership and management can be best understood through our epics and puranas. I write articles on the application of these tales in modern […]
Decoding Vahana: Is it Truly Just a ‘Mount’ or Something More?
Introduction In our epics and Puranas, we read about different deities. The deities appear on earth for their devotees, they fight wars and they bless the devotees. And when they perform all these duties, their loyal associate is the Vahana or mount. The Vahana is also an integral part of the iconography of the deity. […]
Daanam and CSR: The Sacred Art of Giving in Hinduism
Many epics and Purans tell story of Mahabali, one of the greatest kings the earth has seen. He is the grandson of Pralhada and descendent of sage Kashyapa. Mahabali is considered to be the noblest and most prosperous ruler, who transformed his kingdom into a heavenly place. His legend is a major part of the […]
Beyond the Canvas: Maratha Style Paintings and their Cultural Significance
Chhatrapati Shivaji the Great was the founder of the Maratha Kingdom. From his time (1630-1680) onwards till the British established their rule, the Marathas continued to dominate the political scene of the country. The second half of the Maratha rule (18th to 19th century) saw the flourishment of art and culture. Of the various branches […]
Lakkundi & Shravanabelagola : Latest applicants for World Heritage tag
After recent inclusion of Hoysala temples in UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the tourism in Karnataka is expected to be on rise. With the aim of boosting the tourism and better upkeeping of the heritage, two prime monuments in Karnataka have been proposed for the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage list. The one is Shravanabelagola in Hassan […]
From Myth to Canvas: Mayura’s Vibrant Presence in Hindu Art
Mayura and a little bit about it Mayura or peacock is our national bird. Yes, we all have studied that in school. The importance of peacock goes way beyond just being the national bird. Peacock has always been an important element of all types of arts, including dance, literature, sculptures, jewellery etc. The bird has […]