By Desis, for Desis and Everyone Else!!
This site seeks to demystify Indian customs and culture for anyone who wants to learn more. Hopefully, you find the content interesting, educational and find answers to questions you had, but never asked.
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What’s a Desi?
The term “desi” is a term that is commonly used by people from the Indian subcontinent to refer to themselves or other people (origin or ancestry) from the region.
The word “Desi” is derived from the Sanskrit word “desh,” which means “country” or “region” or “homeland”. (‘Sanskrit’ word ‘Desh’? What is Sanskrit?)
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Desi people can come from countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Maldives. The term can also be used to describe aspects of Indian origin culture, including food, clothing, music, and art.
Ellora Caves
What are the Ellora Caves?
The Ellora Caves are a group of 34 rock-cut temples located near the city of Aurangabad in Maharashtra, India. The caves were carved out of the volcanic basalt rock in the 6th to 10th centuries CE and represent one of the largest rock-cut monastery-temple cave complexes in the world.
Embed from Getty ImagesThe Ellora Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are considered to be one of the greatest examples of rock-cut architecture in India.
Vignettes of Ajanta & Ellora – Google Arts & Culture
The caves are a testament to the religious harmony that existed in ancient India, as they include Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain temples, all located in close proximity to one another.
The Hindu caves at Ellora are dedicated to the god Shiva and feature elaborate carvings and sculptures depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. The Buddhist caves are decorated with intricate paintings and carvings depicting the life and teachings of the Buddha, while the Jain caves feature detailed carvings of Jain tirthankaras (spiritual leaders).
The most famous cave at Ellora is the Kailasa Temple, which is the largest monolithic structure in the world. It was believed to have been built in the 8th century CE (but no hard evidences exist) and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is carved entirely out of a single rock, and it is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures that depict scenes from great Indian epics.
Are Ajanta and Ellora the same?
No. They are very different and both are a must see for anyone to admire and appreciate the artwork which is perhaps the most unique in all of the known world.
Read more about the Ajanta Caves here.
Where are the Ellora caves located?
Ellora Caves are located in the Indian state of Maharashtra, about 30 kilometers from the city of Aurangabad. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are renowned for their rock-cut architecture and intricate sculptures.
Who built the Ellora caves? And when?
The Ellora Caves were built over a period of several centuries, from the 6th to the 10th centuries CE, under the patronage of various rulers and patrons of the time. The exact identities of these rulers and patrons are not known with certainty, as very little historical documentation exists from this period.
However, it is believed that the caves were built by a number of different dynasties and religious groups, including the Rashtrakutas, the Chalukyas, and the Yadavas, who were all powerful South Indian dynasties during this period. These rulers were patrons of the arts and provided financial support for the construction of religious monuments, including the Ellora Caves.
The Hindu caves at Ellora were likely built during the reign of the Rashtrakuta dynasty, who were great patrons of Hinduism and built several large temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Buddhist and Jain caves were likely built during the reign of the Chalukya dynasty, who were known for their support of Buddhism and Jainism.
What is the Kailasa Temple?
The Kailasa temple, located in Cave 16, is considered one of the most remarkable structures in the Ellora Caves. It is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and was built in the 8th century AD by the Rashtrakuta king Krishna I. It is believed to be the largest monolithic structure in the world, carved out of a single piece of rock.
How long did it take to build this one temple?
The construction of the Kailasa temple is unique and remarkable, with its intricate carvings and sculptural details. It is not clear how long it took to build the temple, but it is believed to have taken several decades.
Who built the Kailasa temple?
Although there is no concrete evidence to suggest who exactly built the Kailasa temple, historians and scholars attribute it to the Rashtrakuta dynasty, based on inscriptions found on the site.
For a good coverage of this temple see this video – the first and last part of this, show this temple.
Are all the caves at Ellora the same?
The rest of the Ellora Caves also feature impressive architecture and intricate sculptures. The Buddhist caves are known for their peaceful aura and contain large statues of the Buddha. The Jain caves are highly ornate, with elaborate carvings and friezes depicting scenes from Jain mythology.
Why is the Kailasa temple considered unique, perhaps in all of India, if not the entire world?
The Kailasa temple at Ellora (Cave 16) is a remarkable example of ancient Indian rock-cut architecture. The temple is carved out of a single massive rock, and its construction required an exceptional level of skill and technical expertise.
To create the temple, the builders first removed the debris and soil surrounding the rock to expose the solid rock face.
Then they would have used hammers and chisels to create a rough outline of the temple’s floor plan, pillars, and sculptures.
The next step would have been to carve the temple’s intricate details, including the reliefs, sculptures, and ornamental motifs, using smaller chisels and polishing tools.
The construction of the Kailasa temple was a complex and time-consuming process, requiring the efforts of skilled artisans, architects, and laborers working over many years. The temple’s sheer scale and complexity, as well as the delicate details of the carvings, would have required an immense amount of effort and patience.
A single mistake would make the entire temple impossible to build. They would have to make sure the SINGLE rock they used does not have any cracks or blemishes INSIDE it. The temple is MULTIPLE stories and is not a tiny temple!
The skill level and design planning, had to be of an unimaginable level!
One glaring thing most visitors will notice is that several of the sculptures of the gods are broken or disfigured. This was the work has been attributed to Aurangazeb one of the mughal rulers. He was a very devout follower of his religion which forbade idolatry and he ordered the destruction of this temple which was too hard, and they eventually gave up after several years.
Why? The sculptures were too hard to break! (It’s a wonder that the original carvers and sculptors were able to carve intricate designs several centuries earlier!)
Is it even possible to build something like the Kailasa temple today?
It is unlikely that such a temple could be built today, at least not in the same way. Modern construction techniques and equipment may be able to achieve a similar outcome, but the level of detail and artistry achieved by the ancient builders is difficult to replicate with modern machinery.
Moreover, the Kailasa temple’s rock-cut architecture is unique to its time and place, and it represents a particular tradition of Indian architectural style that is not widely practiced today. The building of such an intricate structure would also pose significant logistical and financial challenges in today’s world.
Are there any other structures made from a single rock (monolithic) anywhere?
While the Kailasa temple at Ellora is considered one of the most remarkable structures in the world, there are a few other examples of monolithic construction that are comparable in complexity and grandeur.
However, none of them are identical to the Kailasa temple in terms of design or artistic style.
One such example is the Abu Simbel temple complex in Egypt, which was built in the 13th century BC by Pharaoh Ramesses II.
The complex includes two temples, each of which is carved out of a single rock face. The temples are adorned with intricate reliefs and sculptures, and their construction required the efforts of thousands of workers.
Another example is the Lycian tombs in Turkey, which were carved out of solid rock in the 4th century BC. The tombs are ornately decorated with sculptural details, and some of them are several stories high.
However, it is worth noting that the Kailasa temple at Ellora is unique in terms of its size, complexity, and artistic style. The sheer scale and level of detail of the temple’s carvings make it a truly remarkable achievement in the history of world architecture.
Epics, Vedas and more
What is an Epic?
An epic is a long narrative poem that typically tells the story of heroic deeds and adventures. Epics usually involve a protagonist who is a legendary or mythological figure and who undertakes a quest or journey of great significance. The style and structure of epics vary across cultures and time periods, but they often include themes such as bravery, honor, love, and the struggle between good and evil.
Epics can be found in many different cultures, including ancient Greek, Roman, Indian, and Norse cultures. Some of the most famous examples of epic poetry include Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey, the Mahabharata and Ramayana of India, and the epic poems of Beowulf and Gilgamesh. In addition to poetry, the term “epic” is sometimes used to describe other types of works, such as films, novels, and video games, that share similar themes and storytelling techniques.
How long are these epics?
In terms of length, complexity, and number of characters, the Mahabharata is one of the longest and most complex epic poems in the world. It consists of over 100,000 verses and tells the story of a great war between two branches of a royal family in ancient India. The Mahabharata includes a vast cast of characters, each with their own complex motivations and relationships, as well as philosophical and moral discussions about the nature of existence, duty, and righteousness.
The Ramayana is another ancient Indian epic poem, similar to the Mahabharata in terms of its cultural significance and literary complexity. It tells the story of the prince Rama, who sets out to rescue his wife Sita from the demon king Ravana. The Ramayana is also a lengthy work, consisting of over 24,000 verses.
While the Ramayana is not as long as the Mahabharata, it is still a complex and nuanced work that explores themes such as loyalty, love, and duty.
The Iliad and Odyssey, both attributed to the ancient Greek poet Homer, are also long and complex epic poems. The Iliad tells the story of the Trojan War, while the Odyssey follows the journey of the Greek hero Odysseus as he tries to return home after the war. Both poems feature a large cast of characters and explore themes such as heroism, honor, and the relationships between mortals and gods.
The Epic of Gilgamesh, an ancient Mesopotamian epic, is another long and complex work that features a variety of characters and themes. It tells the story of the eponymous king and his search for immortality, and includes themes such as friendship, mortality, and the relationship between humans and the divine.
How complex are the Indian epics?
There are many supporting stories, subplots, and smaller epics within the Mahabharata and Ramayana that focus on individual characters and their stories in more detail.
For example, within the Mahabharata, there are many subplots and stories that focus on individual characters such as Bhishma, Karna, Draupadi, and Arjuna. These stories explore their backgrounds, motivations, and relationships, and provide greater depth and complexity to the overall narrative of the Mahabharata.
The Mahabharata: Complete and Unabridged (Set of 10 Volumes with Box)
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Similarly, within the Ramayana, there are many supporting stories and subplots that focus on characters such as Hanuman, Ravana, and Sita. These stories provide greater detail and nuance to the characters and their motivations, and add to the overall richness and complexity of the Ramayana.
Read the Ramayana – see several options
Valmiki’s Ramayana: The Great Indian Epic (Amar Chitra Katha) – Illustrated Comics
Where are these sub plots and stories told?
The stories and characters of the Ramayana and Mahabharata are primarily found in the Puranas and other related texts.
What are Puranas?
The Puranas, which are a collection of ancient Indian texts, and contain many stories and characters from the epics. They are divided into different categories, such as the Mahapuranas and Upapuranas, and include stories about various deities, heroes, and historical figures, as well as philosophical and moral teachings.
Bhagavata Purana
Also known as Srimad Bhagavatam, it is considered one of the most important Puranas by many Indians. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and includes stories of his various incarnations, including Lord Krishna. It also includes philosophical discussions and teachings on dharma (duty), karma (consequences of actions), and bhakti (devotion to the divine).
Vishnu Purana
This Purana is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and includes stories of his various avatars, as well as descriptions of creation and cosmology. It also includes discussions of dharma, karma, and other spiritual topics.
Shiva Purana
This Purana is dedicated to Lord Shiva and includes stories of his various forms and manifestations. It also includes discussions of creation, cosmology, and various spiritual practices associated with Shiva worship.
Markandeya Purana
This Purana is named after the sage Markandeya and includes stories and teachings related to Lord Vishnu and his various avatars. It also includes discussions of karma, dharma, and various spiritual practices.
Agni Purana
This Purana is dedicated to the god Agni and includes stories related to him, as well as discussions of various spiritual practices and rituals. It also includes descriptions of astronomy, astrology, and other topics.
Padma Purana
This Purana is named after the lotus flower that is associated with Lord Vishnu. It includes stories related to Lord Vishnu and his various avatars, as well as discussions of various spiritual practices and topics.
These are just a few examples of the many Puranas that exist. Each Purana typically focuses on a particular deity or set of deities and includes stories, teachings, and discussions related to that deity or set of deities.
What are the Vedas?
The Vedas are a collection of four sacred texts that are considered the oldest and most authoritative scriptures of Hinduism.
They were composed in Vedic Sanskrit, an ancient form of the language, between 1500 BCE and 500 BCE. The four Vedas are:
Rigveda
The oldest and most important of the four Vedas, consisting of hymns and prayers addressed to various deities.
Yajurveda
A collection of ritual texts and instructions for performing Vedic ceremonies and sacrifices.
Samaveda
A collection of melodies and chants used in Vedic rituals.
Atharvaveda
A collection of incantations, and prayers used for a variety of purposes, including healing, protection, and success in battle.
The above are ultra simplified descriptions of the actual content which is very nuanced and voluble.
There are also many other texts associated with the Vedas, such as the Brahmanas, Aranyakas, and Upanishads, which provide further commentary and interpretation on the Vedas.
What are the Upanishads?
The Upanishads are a collection of philosophical and spiritual texts that explore the nature of reality, the self, and the ultimate goal of human existence (yes, they were asking these questions a very very long time ago and had quite a bit to discuss about what they thought about these).
There are over 200 Upanishads, but the most important ones are the Principal Upanishads, which include the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, the Chandogya Upanishad, and the Taittiriya Upanishad.
The Upanishads are considered to be the end portion of the Vedas, and were composed between 800 BCE and 500 BCE. They are written in prose and contain dialogues between teachers and students, as well as stories and parables that illustrate philosophical concepts in an easy to understand format.
Here are some of the most well-known Upanishads, along with brief descriptions:
Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
This is one of the oldest and largest, and is often considered one of the most important. It includes discussions of the nature of Brahman, the supreme reality, and the relationship between the individual soul (atma) and the universal soul (paramatma). (The word soul in English is loosely used here – there are several words in Sanskrit and quite frankly in many languages around the world, which are technically non-translatable – as some concepts and words are harder to get across)
Chandogya Upanishad
This includes discussions of various spiritual practices, including meditation, sacrifice, and the proper recitation of mantras. It also includes discussions of the nature of the self and the relationship between the self and the universe.
Taittiriya Upanishad
This includes discussions of the nature of the self and the universe, as well as various spiritual practices such as meditation, sacrifice, and the recitation of mantras.
Katha Upanishad
This includes the famous story of Nachiketa, a young boy who meets with Yama, the lord of death, and learns about the nature of the self and the universe.
Isha Upanishad
This includes discussions of the nature of Brahman and the relationship between the individual soul and the universal soul. It also includes discussions of various spiritual practices and the concept of karma.
Mundaka Upanishad
This includes discussions of the nature of Brahman and the relationship between the individual soul and the universal soul. It also includes discussions of various spiritual practices and the concept of liberation.
These are just a few examples of the many that exist. Each typically includes discussions of various spiritual practices, as well as philosophical and metaphysical discussions related to the nature of the self and the universe.
What is Itihasa?
In Indian tradition, Itihasa refers to the genre of historical narrative. The two great epics of India, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, are traditionally considered Itihasa, which means “thus indeed it happened” or “so it was”.
Well, it depends on a lot of things!
This is because they are believed to be based on actual historical events, although some parts of the stories are often hard to come to terms with, since they talk of things which in the modern day, some modern scholars find hard to believe could ever be real a long time ago – so must be tall tales…
For example: there is mention of people traveling around on earth and between different worlds – in vimanas (literally flying craft – or airborne vehicles), beings (or a distinctly different kind of people) visiting from different worlds, people traveling between different dimensions (existing in the same place), the passage of time differently when traveling in space and so many things which were only possible or even theorized as potentially possible in modern day in the past few decades.
Additionally, there is mention of usage of some weaponry which sounds very strange and yet very familiar:
In both Mahabharata and Ramayana, there is a description of a weapon called the Brahmastra, which is said to have the power to destroy entire armies and cities or calibrated to destroy whole worlds (kind of like the death star’s (from Star Wars) lasers in an arrow). The descriptions of the Brahmastra in the Mahabharata suggest the after-effects of the weapon resemble radiation sickness.
According to the text, the weapon caused a “great destruction of the earth” and left behind a “terrible aftermath.” The text describes how the land became barren and how the water turned to poison, killing all living creatures. It also describes how the survivors of the weapon suffered from a range of symptoms, including hair loss, skin lesions, and birth defects in their children.
Some scholars have suggested that this weapon was similar to a nuclear weapon or a missile, but others argue that it was a more mythical and symbolic weapon.
The use of the term Itihasa for the Ramayana and the Mahabharata reflects the belief that they are not just mythological stories, but rather accounts of real historical events that have been passed down through generations. The cities mentioned do exist. Some as ruins, some as living cities and some submerged deep in the ocean, flooded some 9-10 thousand years ago (estimated).
These epics are also regarded as sacred texts not just in India but also in a lot of countries around South East Asia, and are studied for their moral, ethical, and philosophical teachings.
The term Itihasa is often used in contrast to the term Purana, which refers to a different genre of Hindu literature that focuses on mythology, cosmology, and other aspects of India tradition. While the Puranas also contain stories of gods and goddesses, they are not considered historical narratives in the same way that the Ramayana and the Mahabharata are.
At the end of the day, one can read and wonder. And a wonderful collection of stories, philosophies and different texts they all are. All of those who read them and ponder and wonder can definitely walk away with a different approach to life, values, adherence to truth, duty, loyalty, existential philosophy and spirituality.
Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer, a remarkable city in Rajasthan, India, known for its golden beauty and desert charm. You might wonder why such a place was built in the middle of the desert.
Jaisalmer was strategically built several centuries ago in the desert to serve as a stronghold by Maharawal Jaisal. Its elevated position on a hill offered an excellent vantage point to spot any approaching enemies.
Jaisalmer is often referred to as the “Golden City.” This moniker is attributed to the city’s golden sandstone architecture that seems to glow in the warm desert sunlight. This epithet reflects the enchanting golden ambiance that envelops Jaisalmer, making it a captivating destination in the heart of the Thar Desert.
The city’s stunning golden architecture, including the famous Golden Fort, was constructed using the abundant sandstone found in the area, which glows like gold in the sunlight lending the city its distinctive charm. The Jaisalmer Fort, was built approximately 800 years ago in the 12th century. It was founded by Maharawal Jaisal, a Rajput ruler, who established the fort as a strategic stronghold in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan, India. Over the centuries, the fort has stood as a testament to the rich history and architectural brilliance of the region.
Despite its seemingly desolate location, Jaisalmer thrived as a bustling trading hub. Merchants from distant lands would journey here, bringing exotic goods and cultural influences. The city’s prosperity grew along with the trade routes that passed through its gates.
Today, Jaisalmer continues to captivate visitors with its enchanting atmosphere. From exploring the winding lanes of the fort to enjoying camel rides in the vast desert dunes, there’s always something exciting to experience. Jaisalmer’s existence in this arid land is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of its people, who have created a vibrant oasis amidst the desert sands.
The Golden Fort or Sonar Quila
Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Quila or the Golden Fort. It is located in the city of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India. This imposing fortress stands proudly on a hilltop and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Jaisalmer Fort is unique because it is not just a historical monument but also a living fort with a vibrant community residing within its walls for many generations. It is one of the few fully inhabited forts in the world. Within its massive sandstone walls, you’ll find a maze of narrow streets, bustling markets, traditional houses, and numerous shops selling handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry.
The fort was built in the 12th century by Rajput ruler Maharawal Jaisal and served as a strategic stronghold on the ancient trade route between India and Central Asia. Its golden hue, which blends harmoniously with the surrounding desert landscape, has earned it the name “Golden Fort.” The fort’s walls, made of locally sourced yellow sandstone, seem to glow like gold when bathed in sunlight.
The architecture of Jaisalmer Fort is a splendid example of Rajputana style, characterized by intricately carved jharokhas (balconies), ornate facades, and impressive gateways. It houses several Jain temples, including the famous Jain temple dedicated to Lord Parshvanath.
Living within the fort walls, the families have preserved their rich cultural heritage and traditional way of life. Their homes have been passed down through generations, and they continue to maintain the customs and traditions of their ancestors. The fort community has its own schools, shops, and basic amenities, making it a self-sustained microcosm within the larger city.
A visit to Jaisalmer Fort offers a glimpse into a bygone era, where history and contemporary life coexist. Exploring its narrow lanes, interacting with the locals, and witnessing the stunning views of the city and Thar Desert from the fort’s ramparts make for an enchanting experience.
Jaisalmer Fort stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance of the past and the resilience of the present, preserving the cultural fabric of Rajasthan in its timeless embrace.
See more Places in Rajasthan
The term Desi can refer to people of Indian subcontinent origin or ancestry, or it can refer to the cultural practices and products of the region.
Desi food, will include dishes such as biryani, Pongal, samosas, Dosa, Idli, Parantha, Chawal and dal, while Desi fashion may feature traditional clothing styles like sarees, salwar kameez, Dhoti, and kurta pajama.
Desi music may include traditional folk music (dozens of styles), classical music (also several distinct schools), traditional dance (several traditional and ancient styles) and popular movie or music genres like Bollywood, Tollywood, Kollywood, Mollywood (all different regional language film industry names – a play on the word Hollywood).
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