Articles by Prakriti Anand

Mohini: Lord Vishnu’s Female form in Hindu Culture

One of the most interesting legends from the treasures of Hindu literature is the story of Mohini, Vishnu’s form as a divine female, whose beauty is unparalleled. From the dramatic episode of Samudra-Manthana (churning of the ocean by gods and demons) to the bewildering scene of Bhasmasura’s defeat by her charms, Mohini is a popular presence in Indian religion and folklore. The embodiment of “Moha '' (allure, the divine mirage) that enchants every being, Mohini is the representation of Vishnu’s subtle and ever-present powers that run the Universe.

Published in Jul 2024

Rahu and Ketu Twin Planets in Hindu Culture: Origins, Eclipses & Astrology Meaning

Rahu and Ketu, known as the shadow planets in Hindu culture, have deep roots in astrology. Born from a single Asura, they influence eclipses and symbolize the karmic balance between material desire (Rahu) and spiritual detachment (Ketu). This guide respectfully explores their fascinating origin, unique forms, and impact on life. Discover the myth, symbolism, and astrological meaning of Rahu and Ketu. Learn how these shadow planets influence eclipses, karma, and spiritual growth.

Published in Jul 2024

Rama-Katha: Exploring the Many Ramayanas Across India and Beyond

Tulsidas could not have been more right when he wrote these lines. Centuries after him, when A.K. Ramanujan, a scholar of Sanskrit and Indian culture, began his quest for Ramayana across India and the world, the sheer number and retellings that he witnessed were awe-inspiring. As an ode to the many Ramayanas that he got to know about, and for the many more that existed, hidden in their locales, Ramanujan wrote “Three Hundred Ramayanas”, a work popular world over for its exploration of the many Ramayanas. What the philosophy of Tulsidas and the scholarly journey of Ramanujan have in common is how they underline the awesome number of Rama stories. The central character of Sri Rama is the same in all these tales.

Published in Jul 2024

Mangala (Mars) in Indian Culture: Legends, Astrology & Worship

Mangala, the planet Mars in Indian culture, symbolizes courage, strength, and warrior energy. Revered in Jyotisha and Hindu mythology, he is associated with both Shiva and Vishnu, and regarded as the son of Earth (Bhauma). Worship of Mangala on Tuesday, through mantras, Yantras, and rituals, enhances resilience, leadership, and focus, while mitigating anger and stubbornness. Understanding Mangala’s influence helps devotees balance energy, channel determination, and achieve virtuous success in life.

Published in Jun 2024

Yoga Darshana: Philosophy of Yoga in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras

“Yoga is a lifestyle”. This sentence has become the simplest definition and expression of what Yoga is. From the villages of India to the sprawling modern spaces of Europe and America, Yog or Yoga is one of the most popular practices that transcend the boundaries of culture and geography. Yet, beyond the aforementioned line, not much is actually known about Yoga, its practice, and its philosophy in the popular sphere. Then how can we know what exactly is Yoga? Thankfully, the solution to this conundrum was formulated centuries ago. In ancient India, a Maharishi (great sage) by the name of Patanjali compiled the philosophy of Yoga in “sutras”, literally “threads”, or short formulations in Sanskrit, which contain the oceanic knowledge of Yoga.

Published in Jun 2024

Devguru Brihaspati: Jupiter, The Divine Teacher of Gods & Wisdom

Guru (the great or heavy one) or Brihaspati are the names of the teacher of Gods, a position given to Jupiter in Indian culture. A prime and powerful member of the Navagraha Mandala, Brihaspati rules the spheres of wisdom and knowledge and is one of the few Graha (planets) that are mostly auspicious for a person. It is said that even when an individual has a weak Brihaspati in their Kundali or birth chart, the grand planet (due to its massive size), with a big heart, tries its best to bestow them with positive or neutral results. A planet that guides one as a patient and magnanimous master, Guru or Brihaspati is royalty among the Nine Planets. Let us know a few interesting things about this great planet-

Published in Jun 2024

Budha (बुध): God of Planet Mercury & Ruler of Intellect

Born out of the romance of Chandra, the Hindu Moon-God, and Tara, the wife of Jupiter, Budha, the planet Mercury has one of the most interesting tales among the Navagraha or Nine planet cluster. In Hindu astrology, also known as Jyotisha Vidya, Budha is the ruler of intellect, who bestows intelligence and wisdom and guides a person towards good or bad decisions. The controller of Budhi or mental faculties, Budha is a powerful planetary deity in Hinduism, worshipped to gain stability and strength of mind.

Published in Jun 2024

Chandra Dev: The Hindu God of Moon, Tales, Legends and Worship

Chandra Dev, known as Soma or Rajnipati, is the Hindu Moon God and a key Navagraha deity. Worshiped for his powers over the mind, emotions, and healing, Chandra features in Vedic texts, astrology, and legends like his love for Tara, birth of Budha (Mercury), and interactions with gods like Shiva and Ganesha. His waxing and waning explain lunar phases, and his symbolism appears in goddess iconography, Jyotisha, and rituals across India, highlighting his enduring spiritual and cultural significance.

Published in Jun 2024

Agni Dev: The Hindu God of Fire

The son of Rishi Kashyap and Aditi, Agni earlier was only meant to consume sacred, ritual offerings, poured in the Kunda or altar and bring it to the gods. He was born to be the mediator between the world of humans and the heavens. On one of the days, Agni saw the wives of the Saptarishi, or seven sages, who were very beautiful and was attracted to them. However, he could not approach them because it would have been immoral to propose marriage to the already married women. A witness to all this was Swaha, the daughter of Prajapati Daksha, who was in love with Agni, who seemed to be smitten by other women. Not losing heart, Swaha wittily transformed herself into the wives of the Saptarishis and reached Agni with her loving proposal.

Published in Jun 2024

Shani Jayanti 2026: Everything you need to know about Shani Dev

Receiving the fruits of one’s acts in the afterlife is one thing, but there is one Hindu god who keeps a keen, unwavering eye on all our actions, and accordingly with the firmness of a judge, gives good or bad results of our Karma during our lifetimes. He is Shani, Shanishchara (one who chara or walks shaneh or slowly), Saturn, the son of Bhagwan Surya, and one of the Navagraha or nine planets. This year Shani Jayanti or the birth anniversary of Lord Shani is to be celebrated on 6th June 2024, in different parts of India, where temples of the planet god are situated. Let us get to know a few things about Lord Shani, a powerful, popular but misunderstood divinity in Hindu culture.

Published in Jun 2024

Aligarh Brass Art : Unlocking the Artistic Stories of the City of Locks

Upon entering the brass factory in Aligarh, I found a structure that was in no way fitting my definition of a “factory”. With an uneven mud floor, a makeshift roof supported by steel pillars, walls painted with a thick layer of soot and dust on which hang the bags and clothes of the artists, and a portable stove on which the Kaarigars (craftsmens) were making their tea, the space looked more like a hastily developed village than a factory.

Published in May 2024

Devi in Art: How Indian Art Traditions Honor Goddesses

As Navaratri arrives, every devotee observing the nine nights of the goddess begins preparing to welcome and worship Durga and her various forms. From brass, copper, bronze, stone, and wood statues to paintings of the great goddess in her different aspects, Navaratri highlights the ways in which Hindu culture remembers and celebrates Devi. Going back to the ancient period, when the divinity of the goddess was represented through powerful symbols and simple iconography, Indian art has a plethora of ways in which Devi is commemorated. Looking at a few gems from Indian paintings, this article memorializes how Indian art traditions honor Hindu goddesses.

Published in Apr 2024

Chaitra Navaratri - Dates, Significance, Rituals & Traditions

Durga literally translates to “she who is difficult to attain”, however, one of her dhyana-mantra worshiped her as “Durgati-Nashini” or “she who ends evil or misfortune”. Simply put, goddess Durga is the ultimate deity, the beginning, sustenance, and end of creation. She is Srishti (creation), Maya (the visual and experienced world around), and Kali (the annihilator). In all the sects and traditions of the country, her presence is felt in one form or the other.

Published in Apr 2024

Holi in India: A Journey Through Paintings

Sweets and savory dishes on plates, bowls of colors, Gulal in the air, people singing Phaag (folk songs celebrating Phagun or the month of Holi), fervor, and joy all around- the arrival of Holi is a time when everyone welcomes energy, newness, and life with open arms. In the states of India, people have different ways of celebrating the festival with their loved ones. This ancient festival of colors seems to be one of the most important occasions for the people of India till modern times. In this blog, we will relish the vibrancy of Holi through the colors of Indian painting. With each brushstroke and eye-catching color filling the canvas with eternal colors, these paintings perfectly capture the essence of Holi for India and its people.

Published in Mar 2024

Vasant: Spring Season in Indian Culture

In the Satikhanda of Rudrasamhita of Shiva Purana, the conversation between Kamadeva and Lord Brahma is described. The lord of love asks the creator, for a powerful companion and weapons, for his task of bringing Shiva out of his meditative state. As Brahma draws a deep breath, a young man, ornamented with garlands of flowers is born, brimming with beauty, and complete with all auspicious features. He was Vasant. The dark-skinned Vasant brought with him a bloom of nature- causing flowers to blossom and birds to sing, which transformed the ambiance into a heavenly one. Seeing this, Brahma was pleased and introduced the divine man to Kamadeva as his friend. Vasant from the moment of his birth was to accompany Kamadeva, empowering and amplifying his effects on all beings. By quickly transforming the state of space, Vasant has the power to cause romance, love, affection, and bliss, making it a welcome presence in the culture of India.

Published in Mar 2024

Maha Shivaratri and its Stories from the Puranas

Maha Shivaratri- “the extraordinary or great night of Shiva” in Hindu tradition and Shaiva devotion is one of the most powerful occasions for celebrating the auspicious and eternal Shiva. Falling in the month of February-March, Maha Shivaratri commemorates the divine union of Shiva and Shakti by the marriage of Shiva and Parvati, but many also celebrate the occasion as a victory of Shiva over the forces of Tripuri in his Tripurantaka form. In Kashmir Shaivism, where Tantra reigns supreme, devotees observe the Hara-Ratri or night of Hara (Shiva) and Bhairavotsava- the union of Bhairava and Bhairavi, potent and Tantric forms of Shiva and Parvati. For others, Maha Shivaratri is the night when Shiva performs his legendary Tandava. As we eagerly look forward to this celebration of Shiva and Shiva-tattva (the essence of Shiva), let us revisit a few divine tales of Shiva from the Puranas and devotional traditions of the country and be mesmerized by the otherworldly yet easily pleased primordial one.

Published in Mar 2024

The Story of the Buddha in Sculptures

From the earliest artistic depictions of Bharhut, Sanchi, Amaravati, Nagajunkonda, and the marvelous statues of Gandhara and Mathura, Buddhist art has translated the wisdom of the Buddha into stone and metal. Condensing his immeasurable virtues and venerable life in art, sculptures of the Buddha offer a chance to the followers of Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha, to witness the aura of the Enlightened One, and be guarded by his light to the supreme brilliance of Bodhi.

Published in Feb 2024

Love in Indian Paintings: The Many Expressions of Prema, Sringaar and Kama

Rajput paintings, from different sub-schools, depict the scenes of Radha and Krishna in the forests or gardens of Vrindavana, where Radha appears in the garments of Krishna as the blue-skinned Krishna veils his face with the chunri of Radha. Some of the inscriptions that accompany classic Ragamala paintings identify Ragini Bhairavi as a maiden (unmarried young woman), who is enamored by the aura of Bhairava, and with a single-minded devotional love, prays to Shiva, for receiving the hand of Bhairava in marriage. Seeing these artworks transports the audience into the romantic world of the subjects- a realm away from the narrowness of the world, where all expressions of Prema, Sringaar, and Kama have found an eternal, aesthetic haven.

Published in Feb 2024

Bani Thani: A Jewel in the Crown of Kishangarh Paintings

I drank with my eyes the beauty of this glamorous woman who stood near Bihari Lal in ecstasy”. These lines are from the poem of Nagari Das aka Maharaja Savant Singh of Kishangarh, the poet-prince who is associated with the conception and origin of one of the most popular and unparalleled figures in Indian art- Bani-Thani or the “bedecked woman”. Emerging as the “Monalisa of Indian Art”, Bani-Thani is the representative of the luxurious and expressive art of Rajput school and a gem in the crown of Kishangarh paintings.

Published in Feb 2024

The History of Kani Shawl: Kashmir’s Heritage Chosen by PM Modi

PM Modi’s choice of a Kani shawl for welcoming Rama Lala highlights the timeless elegance of Kashmir’s weaving heritage. Originating from Kanihama village, Kani shawls are handwoven with intricate floral patterns that date back to the Mughal era. Worn by royals across India and Europe, these shawls symbolize devotion, artistry, and luxury making them a perfect blend of history, culture, and craftsmanship. Discover the royal history of Kashmir’s Kani shawl, PM Modi’s pick for Rama Lala’s welcome. Explore its Mughal roots, artistry, and enduring global legacy.

Published in Jan 2024

Kutch Shawls: Handwoven Heritage from Gujarat’s Bhujodi Weavers

Kutch Shawls are traditional handwoven textiles from Gujarat’s Bhujodi region, crafted by the Vankar community using the extra-weft weaving technique. Made from natural wool or cotton and dyed with eco-friendly pigments, they carry 600 years of cultural symbolism. Recognized under the “Kachchh Shawl” GI tag, they reflect India’s living textile heritage and sustainable fashion values.

Published in Jan 2024

Krishna Leela in Pattachitra Art: Complete Krishna Story Art of All Episodes

Pattachitra in its layout draws from the idea of time in Hinduism, which flows eternally, in episodes that are interconnected, forming a garland of celestial events, where each bead is a Lila or divine play of the supreme god. In this Pattachitra, the episodes of Krishna Lila are laid out beautifully, starting (from the top left corner) from Vaikuntha, where Vishnu lies on his Adi Shesha, being attended by Sri Lakshmi. On the lotus emerging from his navel, Lord Brahma is enthroned. From here, the tale of Krishna goes to the human realm (moving in a clockwise direction).

Published in Jan 2024

Aditya Hridaya Stotra: When Sri Rama Worshipped the Sun

As winter air gets chillier and the sky gets grey, our eyes reach the sky, looking for the shining heavenly body- Surya or Sun, which has been a source of light, life, hope, and strength for civilizations, for centuries. Little do we know, that ages, Yugas apart from today, standing on the brink of war with Ravana, Sri Rama too reached out to the powers of Suryadeva (Sun god), at sage Agastya’s advice, to instill in him, divine prowess, confidence, and victory. Bowing down to the most illustrious Sun, Agastya with Rama created the “Aditya Hridaya Stotra”- “the Heart of the Sun” hymn (that which infuses the heart with the powers of the Sun), a hymn chanted by Hindus to gain worldly and spiritual benefits, which like the light of the Sun, never end.

Published in Jan 2024

Tirupati Balaji Temple: Stories, History, Geography, Secrets

With a followership that comprises commoners and some of the richest and most influential people of our times, Sri Tirupati Balaji as a powerful and ever-present form of Vishnu in Kaliyuga has gained popularity across the globe. For his devotees, the Sri Kshetra (auspicious region) of Tirumala is “Kaliyuga Vaikuntha” (the abode of Vishnu in Kaliyuga) and Tirupati Balaji is “Kaliyuga Varada” (he who bestows boons in Kaliyuga). The mighty Balaji is “Sat-chit-ananda” – the bliss of supreme, pure consciousness and the essence of devotion and divinity. Let us immerse ourselves in the glory of the Lord of Tirumala, and go on a virtual journey of this sacred land of Vishnu on earth.

Published in Dec 2023

Rudrashtakam : The Hymn of Rudra, its Significance and Meaning

In the pages of Rig Veda, Rudra emerges as a potent and supreme deity, who controls the balance of the universe. He is Vastospati- the protector of Vastu or the sacred order of Srishti. He is Pashupati, who controls the frantic soul in the forest of the world. In the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra, it is Rudra, who is being evoked for the powers that he holds over death and time. Rudra of Rigveda merges with Shiva in the Puranas, becoming an aspect of the Lord, when he is angered and takes up the task of protection of good and destruction of negative forces.

Published in Dec 2023

What is ISKCON? History, Teachings and Hare Krishna Movement

What is ISKCON, and why has the Hare Krishna Movement inspired millions around the world? From vibrant temples to devotional chants of ‘Hare Krishna,’ ISKCON has created a global community devoted to Krishna-bhakti. But how did this modern Vaishnava movement begin, and what are its core teachings?

Published in Dec 2023

Guru Parb : Remembering the Holiness of Guru Nanak

“Ik Omkar Satnaam”- Om, the sacred word, is the only true (sat) name (naam), of the supreme divine- the beginning of the Mul Mantara (first, root chant) of Sikhism carries within itself the highest degree of spiritual knowledge. The divine being as one and formless, which is the root of Nirguna Bhakti (formless devotion) is encapsulated in the beliefs of Sikhism and its pious text, Guru Granth Sahib. Devotion to Guru acts of service as acts of devotion and valor coursing through the veins of its members- Sikhism is one of the most popular and widespread religions in the modern world. And all its virtues owe their origin to the heavenly persona of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, whose descent is celebrated with enthusiasm and devotion as “Guru Parb” every year, in the days that follow the festivities of Deepawali.

Published in Nov 2023

Dev Deepawali: Celebrating Bhakti with Bhagwan

Kartik, beginning in October and ending in November, has been hailed in Hindu tradition and scriptures as the month of the divine. From the first-revered Ganesha, the goddess of wealth Lakshmi, to Vishnu, Shiva, Krishna, Tulsi, and even one of Mahabharata’s heroes Bhishma are evoked and celebrated in Kartik Maah. The best of Kartik’s festivities in India can be experienced in the home of Shiva, Kashi, where a five-day festival known as “Dev Deepawali” or the Deepawali of the Gods is celebrated with enthusiasm unseen anywhere else.

Published in Nov 2023

Best Diwali Gift Ideas 2025 | Unique & Thoughtful Presents for Family

Mist in the air, a thousand diyas lit, laughter all around, firecrackers and mouth watering sweets adding to the spirit of festivities, Diwali for Indians is THE festival! With families, states and the entire nation coming together, it seems that the week-long joys of Deepawali can not get any better. But there is one thing which is sure to add to the cheeriness of the occasion. Gifts!

Published in Nov 2023

9 Forms of Goddess Worship in Navaratri: Meaning, Names & Blessings

Navaratri celebrates the nine divine forms of the goddess Shakti, worshipped for their power to protect, nurture, and transform life. Across nine nights, devotees revere Durga, Lakshmi, Saraswati, and other aspects of the Mother through prayer, fasting, and rituals. As described in scriptures like the Devi Mahatmyam, honoring these forms awakens inner strength and devotion. The nine goddesses together represent the eternal Adishakti, the cosmic mother of creation and liberation. What are the 9 forms of Devi in Navaratri? Learn their names, meaning, and blessings in this guide to goddess worship and spiritual significance.

Published in Oct 2023

The Festival of Ganesha Chaturthi: Welcoming Auspiciousness

The day of Ganesha Chaturthi begins with the arrival of Ganapati or Pranapratishtha. The image of Ganesha is established in the home of the Puja-pandals (especially in Maharashtra and adjoining regions) and welcomed with devotional zeal. Then, the Shodashopchara (shodasha- sixteen, upchar-ritual offerings) starts, in which 16 forms of prayer and worship are offered to the Lord. As the day of departure approaches, the devotees prepare Bappa with Uttar-Puja, for the last part of the rituals, which is the Visarjana.

Published in Sep 2023

Yoga is the journey of the self, through the self, to the self - The Bhagavad Gita

The guidance of a guru is often emphasized by dedicated practitioners as the optimal way to learn yoga. Each of us is a unique individual with specific circumstances, and a guru provides a personalized touch that is absent in mass classroom teaching. By analyzing your current state, a guru tailors a personalized discipline for your transformative journey. They identify the obstacles holding you back and prioritize working on those areas.

Published in Jul 2023

Which Ganesha Statue is Good for Your Home?

“ॐ एकदंताय विद्महे, वक्रतुण्डाय धीमहि, तन्नो दंती प्रचोदयात्”- Ganesha, known as Prathama Puja (the first worshipped) and Vighnaharta (remover of obstacles), represents knowledge, success, and good fortune. Bringing his idol home invites positivity, prosperity, and protection for the entire family. Exotic India Art offers a handpicked collection of authentic Ganesha statues crafted by skilled artists using traditional methods and pure materials. Explore our range and invite auspicious energy into your home today!

Published in Feb 2023

Hinduism and Yoga: A Deep Connection

Hindu literature contains texts such as Yoga-Vasishtha of Valmiki, Yogayajnavalkya Samhita, Yoga-Upanishads, and numerous commentaries and translations of these books which hold the wisdom of Yoga in their pages. The emphasis of these Hindu texts on spiritual upliftment and withdrawal from the external world is not meant to instill disdain towards the world, albeit these Yogic practices and ideas are formulated to make a human being a valuable member of their society. A true yogi can perform all the actions as “Karma Yoga”, all the while being in a state of complete oneness with the supreme reality. In modern thought, Yoga is seen as an Indian way of life based around postures (Aasanas) and breathing exercises (Pranayama) which help one in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This image, however, is in no way a true and complete definition of the place of Yoga in Hinduism.

Published in Feb 2023

The Divine Beauty of Pichhwai Paintings: From the Background to the Foreground

The allure of traditional Indian artworks and how they majestically stand out in modern spaces can never be overemphasized. Indian paintings, including Pichhwais, are divine images as well as heritage gems, and worshipping one in your home Puja ghar or displaying a Pichhwai masterpiece on your walls will instill in your home the heavenly vibrations of Srinathji. Explore Exotic India Art’s selection of heavenly Srinathji Pichhwais and Sri Krishna Lila Pichhwai paintings, and welcome the Lord of Nathadwara into your home.

Published in Jan 2023

Traditions of Sun Worship in Hinduism: आदिदेव नमस्तुभ्यं

Sun worship in Hinduism is one of the oldest spiritual traditions in India, tracing the divine Surya from the Rig Veda to epic tales like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Revered as the source of light, life, and positivity, Surya’s blessings are celebrated through rituals, hymns, and festivals like Makar Sankranti. Explore how this ancient practice shaped Indian culture, astrology, and spiritual well-being. Learn about Sun worship in India, Surya rituals, Vedic traditions, and Makar Sankranti festivities. A complete guide to Hindu solar deity practices.

Published in Jan 2023

Bijay Biswal : Mystifying Through Realism

Situated in the lap of nature, Bijay Biswal’s hometown in Orissa was where the artist got his formal education. He completed his post-graduation in Political Science, and later to fulfill the wish of his father, studied Law as well. The heart of the artist, however, was captured by the flowing lines, vibrant colors, and the muses all around him. As a young man, Biswal painted signboards in his town, to catch a glimpse of which, a crowd of locals used to gather around the boards. As any creative person does, Biswal rejoiced in reading literature- poetry, and prose in English as well as other books, which also gave him the ideas he later displayed on his magnificent canvases. He still ardently collects books, which according to him are a huge source of inspiration and a vital part of his training as an artist.

Published in Jan 2023

The Many Flowers in a Garland: Types of Pashmina Shawls

These varieties in Pashmina shawls represent only a few of the most popular variants of woolen apparel. The painstaking process of making a Pashmina did not stop the weavers from welcoming the numerous inventions and new introductions in the design and technique of Pashmina. Makers also experimented according to the taste and preferences of the elite patrons of Pashmina, each of whom ended up adding a bit more to the colorful tapestry of Pashmina.

Published in Dec 2022

How the Magic is done Technique of Weaving the Pashminas of Kashmir?

Shawls worn by the people of Kashmir are usually “homespun”- made by men and women after collecting wool from the goats, at home. For the high quality, artistically embellished shawls that are appreciated by the refined international and national collectors of Indian luxury items, the production happens in the workshop or “Karkhana” of the master weaver, known as “Ustaad”. The value of the finished Pashmina is assessed by the time that went into the process, the labor dedicated to the different steps of production, and the intricacy of weaving and embroidery.

Published in Dec 2022

Pashmina of Kashmir : The Delicate Threads of History

The craft of Pashmina might have developed in the medieval period, but the links of Kashmir with Indian culture go back to ancient times. The local legend of Kashmir narrates that the ocean of goddess Sati sprawled in the region until the sage Kashyapa offered prayers so that the ocean would dry. His prayers were answered and the land that emerged from the ocean came to be known as Kashmir (Kashmira- the lake of Kashyapa).

Published in Dec 2022

What is a Conch Shell? History, Meaning and Uses in Hinduism and Buddhism

Conches are a species of extremely large mollusc which belong to the Strombidae family. They’re considered ‘shy’ creatures since they usually come out during the night to feed and spend the day buried deep in the sand. If the lip of the conch shell is well flared, it means that the shell is fully developed. The conch uses the lip of its shell to dig itself into the seabed where it usually stays and hides. The meat of the conch is a great source of nutrition since it contains a high amount of protein and the shell is much coveted around the world. Conch shells also produce pearls, but these are extremely rare and very expensive.

Published in Oct 2021

Rajarajeshwari (Lalita): Empress of Beauty, Desire, and Wisdom

Of the many great yogic goddess lineages, Rajarajeshwari is preeminent. Self-willed and independent, Lalita is an exquisitely sensuous goddess also known as Kameshvari (“Empress of Desire”). At the same time, she is the completely devoted wife of the Supreme Lord Shiva, who is pure consciousness. She exists in a perpetual state of perfect harmony, ever benevolent, her eyes moist with compassion for all beings. Rajarajeshwari – prominently known as Goddess Lalita, is considered as the Hindu Goddess of beauty and enjoyment. She comes in the third position among the Dasha Mahavidyas and also known by the names Tripurasundari and Shodashi. Goddess Lalita Tripurasundari is also one of the nine forms of goddess worship on Navaratri. Goddess Lalitha is assumed to be the divine energy of Sri Chakra. In the pictures, she is depicted as a sixteen-year-old extremely beautiful goddess who blesses mankind with sixteen advices. Moreover, this is the age of perfection and maturity.

Published in Oct 2021

Folk is the New Chic – How to Style your Home the Indic Way

India has a long history of varied cultures, traditions, languages, rulers and religions. This has resulted in a multitude of architectural ideas, influences and styles (most of them centuries old) that have evolved from different parts of the country. Traditional Indian design is essentially forged in the crucible of multiple regional cultures. It’s diverse, multi-faceted, but full of colours. Using Indian decor ideas to add ethnic touches to your home is pretty workable, affordable and doable. Here are some common intersections of a few of those diverse ideas, and how they have found a space and are making an impact even in modern homes. Richly carved wooden furniture. Wooden furniture, painstakingly and profusely carved with exquisite artistry, shouts vernacular Indian style. Intricate carvings in wood and marble were symbolic of prosperity in the olden days. As these were mainly seen in the palaces and forts of kings and queens, others aspired to display this ‘royal’ design element in their homes. It is not uncommon to find many traditional homes with beautifully carved window- and door-frames even today.

Published in Sep 2021

Evolution of the Buddha Image

Discover how the Buddha's image evolved through centuries. A fascinating exploration of how art, culture, and spirituality shaped the iconic visual representations of Buddha. The Buddha image, which completely revolutionalised, by its great dynamism, unimaginably diversified iconography, massive scale and unique spiritualism, the art scenario in ancient India, seems to have evolved upon human mind during the lifetime of the Buddha himself, although this image of mind took some six hundred years to emerge into stone or clay like mediums. As the Buddhist tradition has it, even during Buddha's lifetime, the idea of making his images persisted in his devotees' minds. Study the evolution of the Buddha image across cultures and time. This guide offers an academic look at how Buddhist art transformed and its cultural significance throughout history.

Published in May 2004