Author Archives: udaykumarvarma9834

In the heart of Bastar, a land where tradition and wilderness intertwine, lies an institution that has captured the imagination of many—the Ghotuls. These unique sanctuaries belong to the Muria tribes of Bastar, and they are nothing short of enchanting.  If ever there were to be a marriage between the carnal ecstasy and a delightfulContinue reading “Salphi-Bastar’s Signature Drink -Part II”

Bringing Cheer to Everyday Life “Wine is sunlight, held together by water.” —Galileo India’s famed diversity is a tapestry of multiple forms, many of them enigmatic and esoteric. But  one diversity that is truly outstanding is the tradition of local beverages. Whether nestled in the mystical hills of Manali, the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, the lushContinue reading “Salphi – Bastar’s Signature Drink: Part I”

What does the festival of Janmashtami signify?  Several things.  In fact, the life of Lord Krishna is so multi-faceted that those who wish to understand and discover Him, can approach His pursuit in any manner that comes to their minds. The very breadth of approaches to reach Him is so extensive and encompassing, that theContinue reading “This Janmashtami day, can we just think of ourselves? “

Reconciling Worlds: Development Vs. Culture Patalkot, except for its location in  the deep bosom of mother earth,  today looks like any developing village. Paved roads have replaced stone steps and earthen paths, clean drinking water is available through pipes,  electricity has reached the households and village streets are lit up in the night. There is a school, evenContinue reading “Enigmatic Patalkot -III”

Celebrating Unity in Diversity On the day following Raksha Bandhan, Chhindwara, the heartland of India observes, a unique and captivating festival known as भुजलिया, Bhujalia or Bhujaria. It unfolds an enchanting tradition. Its origins, although not steeped in antiquity, still weaves a tapestry of tradition, unity, and harmony that has thrived for over half a century.  Characterized by vibrant rituals,Continue reading “Bhujalia (भुजलिया) Festival of Chhindwara”

A Tapestry of Heritage and Change In the embrace of ancient mountains, where mist-clad valleys cradle the imagination, the Bharia tribe resides, a living bridge between epochs. Welcome to the enigmatic realm of Patalkot, Madhya Pradesh, where the Bharia people have woven a fabric of history, culture, and evolution that captivates the soul. This hollowedContinue reading “Enigmatic Patalkot -II”

(A walk in the tranquil and refreshing environment of Tamia brings a joy and peace rarely experienced elsewhere. A place that was more dominated by nature itself rather than by those who come to enjoy it, has remained unsullied, unpolluted for a long time. Regrettably the invasion of this sea of serenity by the insensitiveContinue reading “Walking in Tamia”

One sees great things from the valley; only small things from the peak. -G.K.Chesterton Madhya Pradesh, a state synonymous with verdant forests and natural riches, presents a treasure trove of landscapes that beckon explorers and nature enthusiasts. Amidst this bounty, nestled in the Tamia region of the Chhindwara district, lies an exquisite gem known as Patalkot,Continue reading “Enigmatic Patalkot: A Hidden Gem of Madhya Pradesh’s Wilderness”

24 miles or about 38 km south of Chhindwara town is situated the famous historical fort of Deogarh. The fort, imposingly aloft a hill, stands circled by a deep valley. In most months of the year, it is covered with dense forest rich and luxuriant with verdant vegetation and offers a most pleasing and pacifyingContinue reading “Deogarh- A Captivating Slice of Chhindwara’s History”

The population of the district town of Chhindwara in Madhya Pradesh is less than 200,000 according to 2011 census. Yet, when Baba Bageshwar was here early this month on a three day sojourn to tell “Katha”, close to 5,00,000  people congregated at the Katha site. Obviously, not only the whole town but far more from theContinue reading “Unlocking An Extraordinary Influence”