Author Archives: udaykumarvarma9834

“In heaven, Lord Ganesha will establish the predominance of gods, on earth, that of people, in the nether world, that of serpents and anti-gods” ~A Hymn from Sri Bhagavat-Tathva~ In the illustrious pantheon of Hindu deities, Lord Ganesh occupies a truly extraordinary place. He defies conventional expectations, sporting an elephant’s head, a less-than-shapely physique, andContinue reading “Understanding Ganesha: Seeking True Eudemonia”

The Gotmar Festival of Chhindwara But how did this blood-soaked rivalry even begin? The local lore, passed down through generations, provides some insight, though the true genesis remains uncertain. The Defenders And The Aggressors The Many Stories of Origin The true genesis of this blood-soaked rivalry may forever remain shrouded in uncertainty, but local lore offers severalContinue reading “A Bloody Tradition That Endures Part-II”

The Gotmar Mela of Chhindwara The River, The Tree, The Victory Flag Defying Logic, Celebrating Brutality Nestled along the serene banks of the river Jaam in the heart of India’s Chhindwara district exists a tradition that defies all logic. It is a ritual that has endured the test of time, a celebration that transforms into a brutalContinue reading “A Bloody Tradition That Endures-Part I”

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”