Stories

In Kerala, the onset of the Onam harvest festival signals a festive occasion filled with vibrant  cultural performances and, most notably, the elaborate Onam Sadhya feast. This culinary  extravaganza, steeped in tradition, brings loved ones together to enjoy a lavish vegetarian  meal served on banana leaves. The Onam Sadhya finds its origins deeply embedded in the  mythology and history of Kerala, India. Its essence is intricately linked to the tale of King  Mahabali, a revered ruler celebrated for his magnanimity and just governance. As per Hindu  mythology, the gods grew concerned about Mahabali's increasing power, prompting Lord  Vishnu to incarnate as Vamana, a diminutive Brahmin. Vamana requested just three steps of  land from Mahabali, which eventually expanded to encompass the entire cosmos. Mahabali,  upon granting his consent, was granted the opportunity to visit his kingdom and people once  a year during Onam, as a mark of reve...

  ব'হগ মাথোঁ এটি ঋতু নহয় নহয় ব'হাগ এটি মাহ অসমীয়া জাতিৰ ই আয়ুস ৰেখা গণ জীৱনৰ ই সাহ গণ জীৱনৰ ই সাহ গণ জীৱনৰ ই সাহ   Translation     Bohag is not just a season it is a month. It is the lifeline of the Assamese nation. It is the courage of mass life. It is the courage of mass life. It is the courage of mass life. (The above-mentioned lines are from the song ‘Bohag Mathu Rhitu Nohoi’ by the legendary Dr. Bhupen Hazarika.) Introduction Assam, the land of Red River and Blue Hills crafted by the veins of the Brahmaputra is a mosaic of cultural diversity. The diverse traditions, customs and languages in the region converge to create a kaleidoscope of culture. Central to the cultural landscape of the region is Bihu which reflects the myriad of traditions. Bihu has been integral to the cultural landscape of Assam since time immemorial. Bihu not only involves feasting and dancing but also signifies the transition of seasons. There are three distinct Bihu which are celebrated i...

  INTRODUCTION :  Odisha is a state of rich culture and horary traditions . From Ancient time onwards ,Odisha had been a major center for different episodes of events . Whether it's the Great Kalinga war of Ashoka or the emergence of different forms of Brahmanical worship , Odisha has always played a major role in the synthesis. It's the home of Dravidians , Aryans and Tribal people making the culture of the state diversified and vibrant . Earlier , Odisha was known as "Utkal" which stands out as ‘The Land of Exciting Cultures',  thus justifying the vivid and affluent nature of the state . All the archaeological and historical evidence shows that the state came into the frame almost during the mid of 3rd CE BCE . So the antiquity of the state goes back to the time period of Mahajan padas and Maurya which shows that the state also had been actively involved in the field of trade and politics. All these features make it a prime zone for the development of multiple c...

In the serene village of Chavara nestled in Kollam, Kerala, a remarkable yet lesser-known temple festival awaits those eager to witness a cultural spectacle like no other - the enchanting 'Chamayavilakku'. This annual extravaganza unfolds within the sacred precincts of the Kottankulangara Devi Temple, casting a spellbinding aura during the months of March and April. Let's embark on a journey to uncover the mesmerizing traditions and captivating legends surrounding this extraordinary celebration. Kottankulangara Devi Temple in Chavara near Kollam, in Kerala, India Image Credit: Wikimedia commons Legend has it that the origins of Chamayavilakku trace back to a mystical encounter in the depths of a jungle. A group of playful boys stumbled upon a peculiar coconut, which upon being cracked open, began to exude crimson droplets resembling blood. Recognizing this as a divine sign, they sought counsel from the village priest, who affirmed that it was an embodiment of the goddess Bh...

  Traditions and history form an integral part of folklore, representing the essence of our ancestors' past and serving as the foundation of cultural heritage. The oral transmission of these customary practices has been a longstanding tradition, passed down from generation to generation. However, with the evolution of time, there has been a shift towards recording folklore more frequently, reflecting changing societal norms and technological advancements. Gangaur is one of such kind festival related with a regional folklore and legacy of the performing community. With its diverse range of customs and civilizations, India is a country of festivals that emote passionate devotion and brilliant colours over its landscapes. Ganguar, or Gangaur, is a festival deeply ingrained in the cultural tapestry of Rajasthan, India, where its vibrant celebrations resonate across the landscapes, infusing the air with an unparalleled fervour. Rooted in ancient Hindu mythology, Ganguar finds its orig...

The Lushai people, commonly referred to as the Mizo, trace their lineage back to the enigmatic Chhinlung civilization, rooted deeply within the verdant landscapes of Mizoram in India, as well as the neighboring enclaves of Northeast India. Within the fabric of their existence lies a tapestry woven with threads of antiquity, each strand bearing the weight of centuries past, manifesting in their exquisite artistry, traditional attire, culinary prowess, cultural practices, and the tapestry of festivals that adorn their communal calendar. Among their resplendent festivities, one shines with unparalleled brilliance – ‘Chapchar Kut’. This vibrant celebration is a symphony of colors, a dance of jubilation that reverberates through the hills and valleys, echoing the exuberance of a people deeply connected to their heritage. Its origins, steeped in the mists of time, are believed to date back to a bygone era, perhaps nestled between the years 1450 and 1600 A.D., when legends mingled freely wi...