Newsletter Archive

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

Shri Nath Ji ki Haveli in Nathdwara: The History and Significance of Temple

The sacred land of India is home to many beautiful temple towns that are visited by millions of devotees every year and one of them is Nathdwara which lies approximately 48 kilometers North-East of Udaipur. The town is popular because it is home to the idol of Shri Nath Ji which is a child form of Lord Krishna. He is the main presiding deity of the Nathdwara temple and is worshiped by many devotees throughout the year. He is mainly worshiped in the states of Gujarat and Rajasthan by the devotees of the Pushtimarg sect of Vaishnavism, which was founded by Shri Vallabhacharya and follows the Bhagavat Purana. It is believed by devotees that the face and arms of Shri Nath Ji emerged from the Govardhan Hill itself. A temple was built for the deity in a nearby village called Jatipur.

Published in Feb 2024

Cultural Tapestry of Gold in Indian Art

The earliest recorded instance of metal being used in artwork dates back to the 4th century CE. Ancient texts like the Vishnudharmottara Purana document the practice of creating gold pigments for painting, a tradition that persisted over centuries, as evidenced by later works such as the Shilpratna and Manasollasa. These texts describe a meticulous processes of gold-coated paintings and even polishing it with boar tusks to achieve their characteristic sheen. Read More!

Published in Feb 2024

Lord Jagannath Temple Puri: Mysteries, Rituals, and the Legendary Puri Ratha Yatra

The city of Puri in Odisha, India is famous for many attractions, and the most magnificent of them is the Lord Jagannath Temple. Visited by millions of devotees every year, the Shri Jagannath Temple was constructed in the 12th century by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva from the Eastern Ganga dynasty. Ever since then, it has stood as a symbol of devotion and Hindu faith. The temple has a lot of importance for Hindus all over the world because this is one of the Char Dhams, the 4 sacred pilgrimage centers, apart from Dwarka in the West, Rameshwaram in the South, and Badrinath in the North. It is believed that visiting all these shrines at least once in a lifetime is necessary to attain salvation.

Published in Feb 2024

Shaligram Stones: The Most Unique Form of Lord Vishnu

Devotees of the Hindu religion are known for their firm devotion and that is why they worship their deities in the most beautiful and unique forms. This can be seen in the worship of the Shaligram Shila by the devotees of the Vaishnava tradition. The Shaligram stones are sacred for Hindus because they are considered to be a form of Lord Vishnu who is considered to be the preserver and protector of the universe. They are found near the Gandaki River which flows in Nepal and is one of the largest tributaries of the holy Ganga. The unique thing about them is that they are smooth and shiny and that they are even marked with the impressions of the Sudarshan Chakra which is the divine discus of Lord Vishnu. Mostly Shaligram stones are black but they are found in other hues as well like yellow, red, blue, etc.

Published in Feb 2024

Adi Parashakti: Supreme Cosmic Energy & Source of all Creation

In Hinduism, the goddess Parashakti also known as “Adi-Parashakti” or “Mahadevi” is revered as Para Brahman, the Supreme Being. She is the Great Goddess, from whom all other deities originate, and she is also the real one who creates, observes, and destroys the entire universe. Parashakti translates as “The Eternally Limitless Power,” and it is the active energy that both generates and destroys the universe. Parvati, the goddess of strength and bravery, is venerated as her purest material form, Sagun Swaroop. However, the goddess “Adi Parashakti” is also described as a true spirit devoid of form (Nirguna).

Published in Feb 2024

Nagas Sarpa Parampara: Origin & Symbolism of Hindu Nagas

Rooted in traditions of eclectic nature, Hinduism fascinates as much as it stirs the surprised awakening to the celestial world. Such is what we’ll explore as the space of Snakes - Nagas/Sarpas in the Hindu world.

Published in Feb 2024

Cheriyal Paintings: A Glimpse Into Their Past and Their Present

Cheriyal paintings are colorful and mostly use primary colors only. The trademark feature of a Cheriyal scroll painting is that it has a background that is red in color and a border that has floral motifs. They usually depict scenes from Hindu epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata, incidents mentioned in the Puranas like the Shiv Purana, Garuda Purana, and the Markandeya Purana, and other mythological events like the Krishna Leela. Apart from this they also depict daily scenes from the lives of the common folk. It must be noted that the figures depicted in Cheriyal scroll paintings are always facing each other.

Published in Feb 2024

The Story of Sudarshan Chakra: A Celestial Weapon and a Divine Mystery

The Sudarshan Chakra, Lord Vishnu’s celestial discus, is far more than a mythological weapon. Symbolizing the eternal cycle of time, cosmic order, and divine protection, it represents the force that preserves dharma and dispels evil. This sacred emblem holds deep significance in Hindu philosophy and rituals, reminding devotees of the omnipresent vigilance of the Supreme Protector. Dive into its legends, symbolism, and mystical energies to understand why Sudarshan Chakra remains a revered icon across time. More than a weapon, the Sudarshan Chakra is a divine wheel of protection, balance, and cosmic justice. Discover the spiritual meaning behind Lord Vishnu’s sacred disc and its mystical role in upholding dharma.

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

Brass Statues as per Vastu – Bring Prosperity, Peace & Elegance Home

As per Vastu Shastra, brass statues should be placed in the northeast or east part of your home to invite positivity and prosperity. Ideal idols include Lord Ganesha, Buddha, and Goddess Lakshmi. Keep them elevated, clean, and facing inward to balance energy flow and aesthetic harmony. Avoid bedrooms or bathrooms for deity idols. Proper brass placement enhances peace, creativity, and good fortune. In modern homes, brass statues serve more than decorative appeal when aligned with Vastu principles, they are believed to influence energy flow, calmness, and prosperity.

Published in Jan 2024

The Significance of Sacred Animals in Hinduism

There are many unique qualities about the Hindu religion and one of them is the advocacy of compassion towards animals and in fact, all creatures in the world. Animals are considered sacred in Hinduism. Not only do Hindus worship various animals but they also show their compassion and respect towards them by following practices like pure vegetarianism and non-violence towards animals. They hold a lot of significance and are associated with various Gods and Goddesses as their mounts. For instance, the mouse is considered to be Lord Ganesha’s mount while the lion is considered to be the mount of Goddess Durga.

Published in Jan 2024

Ashtadikpalakas: Guardians of 8 Directions in Hindu Belief

The Ashtadikpalakas are the eight Hindu guardian deities who rule the cardinal and intercardinal directions, each representing a natural force and divine attribute. Rooted in Vedic tradition, they are central to Vastu Shastra, temple architecture, and cosmic balance. From Lord Indra in the East to Nirrti in the Southwest, their roles are both symbolic and functional offering protection, harmony, and spiritual alignment in sacred spaces and homes alike.

Published in Jan 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

Baisakhi Festival and the Story Behind the Formation of the Khalsa Panth

Baisakhi Festival is one of the most important festivals in Sikhism and Punjab. Celebrated every year on 13 or 14 April, it marks both the Sikh New Year and the harvest season. The day is especially significant because Guru Gobind Singh Ji founded the Khalsa Panth in 1699 at Anandpur Sahib. Through the creation of the Panj Pyare and the Five Ks, Baisakhi became a symbol of courage, equality, faith, and unity. Discover the meaning of Baisakhi Festival, the formation of the Khalsa Panth, the Panj Pyare, and why this day matters in Sikh history.

Published in Jan 2024

Unlocking the Secrets of Temple Construction in India

India is the land of spirituality and all things holy. People from the far west come here for soul searching and are left spellbound by the temples in India. The grand architecture and the vibrant ways of worship have a profound impact on them. Temple construction in India has been immensely instrumental in the addition of a new dimension to the Hindu culture. The art of temple construction evolved under many dynasties that were spread all over India. Different regions had different styles of architecture that became synonymous with them. For instance, the Dravidian style of architecture was mainly preferred in the Southern regions for the construction of many ancient temples in India.

Published in Jan 2024

25 Popular Sanskrit Words and Their Meanings

Sanskrit is a sacred language and is considered to be the mother of all languages because many words of these languages have been taken from Sanskrit. For instance, many of the words of English have been taken from Sanskrit. Many sacred texts of the Hindu religion like the Vedas, the Upanishads, epics like the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, and the holy Bhagavad Gita have been written in Sanskrit and this gives this holy language a highly revered status, especially in India. As the world is gaining interest in India and in the Indian culture, more and more people are getting drawn to this divine language and are attempting to learn it. If you’re one of them, we have a list of Sanskrit words that not only sound melodious but also have profound meaning to them.

Published in Jan 2024

11 Most Influential Thinkers of Ancient India

Ancient India was the hub of learning. With the most gifted and sharp minds being born here, India was a boiling pot of thoughts, ideas, and philosophies that transformed the world. The earliest known universities were in India, from Nalanda which had the biggest library in the world to Takshashila which graduated great thinkers like Chanakya. Many scholars contributed to a variety of fields. For instance, Acharya Pingala who invented the binary number system, Adi Shankara who was the pioneer of Advaita Vedanta, and many more. It is these revolutionary bright minds who made the history of India so glorious.

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

Indian Authors and Indian Literature and Their Impact on the World

India is the land of many wonders and the brightest minds have taken birth here. These have contributed immensely to the growth of Indian literary tradition. Pioneers in various fields have penned many texts that make up the trove of literary treasures of India. Indian authors have created a rich repository of literary gems on various topics and themes. From treatises on medicine to sacred ancient texts, from poetry and plays to political accounts, Indian literature is very diverse and has had a profound impact on the world across a variety of fields.

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

A Peek Into the Pran Pratishtha Ceremony of the Ram Mandir

The world will chant along when the skies echo with Jai Shri Ram on 22nd January as the city of Ayodhya welcomes the return of its rightful king Lord Rama, yet again. It’s been a long and arduous journey for Hindus across the country and it is finally culminating beautifully. With only 2 weeks to go before the inauguration ceremony, the world is gearing up for the event. Everyone is wondering how the series of events will pan out, who will be present, and many other things. Here are some of the details about the ceremony.

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

Ram Mandir Architecture: A Story Beyond Brick and Mortar

The construction of the Ram Mandir has been completed to a great extent and the temple is finally nearing the day of its inauguration. With this development, the eyes of the entire world are on how the temple is turning out. It has been going on under the guidance of Chandrakantbhai Sompura who designed the Akshardham Temple in Gujarat. He is being assisted by his two sons Nikhil Sompura and Ashish Sompura. There are questions about every aspect of the construction and we have tried to answer most of them.

Published in Jan 2024