Dhanvantari, On the day of Dhanteras, both Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari emerged from the churning of the ocean, known as Samudra Manthana. In many hospitals and clinics across India, statues of a deity holding a Shankha (conch), Chakra (discus), and Kalash (pot) can be seen—this deity is none other than Dhanvantari, who is revered…
Melukote, Diwali, the festival of lights, is celebrated across India with immense joy and enthusiasm. However, not all regions observe the festival with the same fervor. One such place is Melukote, a quaint town in Karnataka’s Mandya district. Unlike other parts of the country, where Diwali is marked by grand celebrations, Melukote stands apart with…
Narakasura, Narak Chaturdashi, celebrated a day before Lakshmi Poojan, is an integral part of Diwali in Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Telangana, and parts of Andhra Pradesh. Depending on the lunar cycle, these two festivals may sometimes coincide. This celebration carries a profound message. Narakasura, the son of Vishnu (in his Varaha avatar) and Lakshmi (as Bhudevi),…
Lakkundi and Shravanabelagola’s Monolithic Marvels, The State Department of Archaeology, Museums, and Heritage (DAMH) has proposed two prominent monuments in Karnataka for inclusion in the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage list. These are Shravanabelagola, located in Hassan district, and Lakkundi, situated in Gadag district. Following the recent recognition of the Hoysala temples as UNESCO World Heritage…
Maratha Kingdom, established by Chhatrapati Shivaji the Great (reigning from 1630 to 1680), played a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape of India until the British takeover. During the second half of the Maratha Empire, spanning the 18th to 19th centuries, art and culture thrived. Among the many art forms that flourished under Maratha…
Damsels of the Temple, The Vijayanagara Kingdom holds a significant place in Indian history due to its remarkable contributions to the development of society, arts, culture, and history, particularly in promoting the Hindu faith. It was one of the most powerful dynasties in southern India and played a crucial role in halting the expansion of…
Yogmaya Temple Mehrauli, one of Delhi’s oldest cities. Is situated in South Delhi and has witnessed numerous conflicts between various dynasties over the centuries. The area has evolved over time, with each period leaving its unique mark on its development. Rich in history, Mehrauli is home to numerous monuments and structures from different eras. According…
The Kakatiya Rudreshwara Temple Kakatiya Temple: Located in Palampet, Mulugu District, the Kakatiya Temple is among the most important and easily accessible heritage sites near Warangal, Telangana, India. Renowned for its architectural brilliance, cultural significance, and historical importance, it remains an underrated gem among tourists. Last year, I had the incredible opportunity to visit this…
Brahmapuri, Some self-proclaimed historians claim that the Portuguese introduced formal education to Goa, portraying it as an uncivilized land before their arrival. However, this narrative is nothing more than a “white lie.” In reality, Goa had a well-structured education system long before the Portuguese set foot on its soil. Unfortunately, subsequent invasions disrupted and ultimately…
Lakshman Rekha: A Divine Boundary with Consequences Growing up, I often heard the phrase, “Sita was also required to adhere to the Lakshman Rekha. To defy it, who are you?” This statement was frequently directed at the girls and women around me by parents and family members. It left me wondering—what exactly is this Lakshman…
