By Desis, for Desis and Everyone Else!!
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.
Navaratri
India, the land known for her rich cultural tapestry, and her people celebrate a multitude of festivals to celebrate life, spirituality, and universal peace. Among these, Navaratri stands out as a vibrant and spiritually significant nine-night festival. Navaratri, which translates to “nine nights” in Sanskrit, is a time for devout worship, energetic dance, and culinary feasts. Let’s explore Navaratri in India.
NavaRatri – A Nine Day festival
Each day of this festival has a specific purpose and is dedicated to a different form of Mother Goddess Durga in all of her splendor.
Day 1: Pratipada – Goddess Shailaputri
The first day of Navaratri, is in the honor of Goddess Shailaputri, the daughter of the mountains. She symbolizes purity and the power of nature. According to the stories, she is the reincarnation of Goddess Sati, the first consort of Lord Shiva.
Day 2: Dwitiya – Goddess Brahmacharini
Goddess Brahmacharini, worshipped on the second day, is an epitome of penance and devotion. She represents the pursuit of truth and knowledge. Her name signifies one who practices devout celibacy.
Day 3: Tritiya – Goddess Chandraghanta
On the third day, we venerate Goddess Chandraghanta, a symbol of bravery and grace. Her name derives from her half-moon-shaped bell (ghanta) and her fierce demeanor while fighting evil forces.
Day 4: Chaturthi – Goddess Kushmanda
Goddess Kushmanda, celebrated on the fourth day, is the creator of the universe. She is believed to have created the world by a mere smile. Her name signifies her power to provide warmth and energy.
Day 5: Panchami – Goddess Skandamata
Goddess Skandamata, revered on the fifth day, is the mother of Lord Kartikeya (Skanda), the god of war. She symbolizes motherly love, protection, and divine maternal instincts.
Day 6: Shashti – Goddess Katyayani
The sixth day honors Goddess Katyayani, a fierce warrior who emerged from the anger of the gods. She embodies strength, courage, and fearlessness.
Day 7: Saptami – Goddess Kalaratri
Goddess Kalaratri, worshipped on the seventh day, is the destroyer of darkness and ignorance. She is the fierce form of Goddess Parvati, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness.
Day 8: Ashtami – Goddess Mahagauri
Goddess Mahagauri, on the eighth day, represents purity and serenity. She is depicted in a white attire, symbolizing her divinely peaceful nature.
Day 9: Navami – Goddess Siddhidatri
On the final day, we revere Goddess Siddhidatri, the bestower of supernatural powers. She signifies the fulfillment of desires and the ultimate achievement of spiritual enlightenment.
Festival traditions across India
Navaratri is also associated with Dussehra or Dasara in many parts of India, particularly in the southern regions. These festivals are related and mark the victory of good over evil, but they have distinct names and significance.
Navaratri
Navaratri, which means “nine nights” in Sanskrit, is a festival celebrated over nine nights and ten days. It honors the divine feminine energy, especially Goddess Durga, who is worshipped in various forms during this period. The festival is dedicated to the triumph of good over evil. Each day of Navaratri is associated with a specific form of the goddess and has its own significance.
Durga Puja
Embed from Getty ImagesIn West Bengal, Navaratri culminates in the grand Durga Puja festival. Elaborate idols of Goddess Durga are crafted and worshipped with great pomp and splendor. The festival is marked by processions, music, and cultural performances.
Dussehra or Dasara
Dussehra, also known as Dasara in some regions, is the culmination of Navaratri and typically falls on the tenth day. It is a major festival celebrated with great fervor. The word “Dussehra” is derived from Sanskrit and means “remover of bad fate” (dus – bad; sehra – fate).
Vijayadashami
Vijayadashami is another name for Dussehra, and it has profound significance. “Vijaya” means victory, and “dashami” refers to the tenth day of the lunar calendar. On this day, it is believed that Lord Rama, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, defeated the demon king Ravana, who had abducted Rama’s wife, Sita. It marks the victory of righteousness (dharma) over evil (adharma).
The story of Vijayadashami revolves around Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after his 14-year exile and his victory over Ravana. The people of Ayodhya celebrated his return by lighting lamps, which is why Diwali, the festival of lights, is also associated with this occasion.
Mahishasura Mardini
Mahishasura Mardini is a significant aspect of Goddess Durga. The name “Mahishasura Mardini” means “the slayer of the buffalo demon.” According to Hindu mythology, the demon king Mahishasura was causing havoc in the universe. Unable to defeat him, the gods invoked the divine feminine energy, and Goddess Durga emerged to confront and defeat Mahishasura in a fierce battle.
This story symbolizes the triumph of good (Goddess Durga) over evil (Mahishasura). During Navaratri, especially in South India, the goddess is worshipped as Mahishasura Mardini, signifying her role as the vanquisher of evil forces.
Ayudha Puja
One of the prominent traditions during Dussehra is the Ayudha Puja. Also known as Astra Puja or Shastra Puja, is a significant ritual in South India that involves the worship of tools, instruments, and vehicles.
While “Ayudha” does indeed mean “weapon” in Sanskrit, this puja is not limited to just weapons; it encompasses a wide range of objects and tools that are essential in people’s daily lives.
Ayudha Puja is a gesture of respect towards the tools and equipment that play a vital role in our daily lives. It emphasizes the idea of using our skills and tools responsibly and with gratitude.
Saraswati Puja
Embed from Getty ImagesIn some regions, Dussehra marks the end of the Navaratri celebrations with Saraswati Puja. Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge and learning, is revered on this day.
Saraswati Puja during Navaratri usually performed on the 7th day (Saptami) or 9th day (Navami) of the festival, depending on local traditions, holds special significance for students as it aligns with the belief that invoking the goddess’s blessings during this auspicious period can enhance their academic pursuits and creative endeavors.
Books, musical instruments, and educational tools are kept in front of the goddess and worshipped. Students seek her blessings for academic success.
While Navaratri is celebrated across India, its essence and rituals vary from region to region.
Navaratri Traditions and Customs
Navaratri is a time of spiritual reflection, devotion, and celebration. Here are some key traditions and customs associated with this festival:
Garba and Dandiya Raas
Garba is a traditional Gujarati dance performed in a circular formation. Dancers move gracefully to the beat of traditional folk songs, often accompanied by claps and twirls. It symbolizes the circular path of life.
Dandiya Raas involves dancers wielding colorful sticks (dandiyas) in pairs. This lively dance signifies a mock-fight between the Goddess and the demon king.
Embed from Getty ImagesGolu or Bommai Kolu or Bommala Koluvu
Golu, also known as Bommai Kolu in Tamil Nadu and Gombe Habba in Karnataka, and Koluvu in Andhra Pradesh, is a significant tradition in South India, particularly during the Navaratri festival.
Families create Golu displays. Golu consists of arranging dolls and figurines in tiers or steps. Each step narrates a story or theme, often featuring deities and mythological scenes.
The topmost step usually features idols of deities, particularly Goddess Saraswati, Lakshmi, and Durga during Navaratri. Other steps may showcase scenes from epics like the Ramayana or Mahabharata, miniature village setups, and depictions of daily life.
Ram Lila
Embed from Getty ImagesRam Lila is a dramatic reenactment of episodes from the Ramayana, particularly the story of Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana.
On the final day of Durga Puja, effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhakarna, and his son Meghanada (Indrajit) are burned in a symbolic act of the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana. This event, known as Ravana Dahan, draws large crowds and is accompanied by fireworks.
Fasting and Prayer
Many devotees observe fasts during Navaratri. Some opt for a complete fast, while others consume fruits, milk, and light meals. Fasting is seen as a way to purify the body and soul.
Prayers and bhajans (devotional songs) are an integral part of Navaratri. Devotees visit temples and offer their reverence to the goddess.
Traditional Foods and Offerings
Navaratri is a gastronomic delight with a variety of dishes prepared across India. Here are some popular dishes and treats served during this festive season:
Sundal – South Indian Chickpea Salad
A South Indian delicacy, Sundal is a protein-packed snack made from boiled chickpeas or lentils. It’s seasoned with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and grated coconut, making it a healthy and delicious offering during the festival.
Payasam (South Indian) Or Kheer (North India) – Rice Dessert
Payasam or kheer is a sweet rice dish made with milk, rice, and flavored with cardamom and saffron. It’s a favorite dessert in all of India. Traditionally made with Jaggery.
Kuttu Ki Puri – Buckwheat Puri
A North Indian fasting favorite, Kuttu Ki Puri is made from buckwheat flour and deep-fried until it puffs up. It’s served with potato curry.
Sabudana Khichdi – Tapioca Pearl Stir-Fry
This Maharashtrian dish features tapioca pearls stir-fried with peanuts, curry leaves, and spices. It’s a popular fasting recipe.
Sandesh – Bengali Sweet
Sandesh is a famous Bengali sweet made from fresh paneer (Indian cottage cheese), sugar, and cardamom. It’s often garnished with pistachios.
Rasgulla – Sweet Cheese Balls
Another Bengali favorite, Rasgulla consists of soft cottage cheese balls soaked in sugar syrup. It’s a delightful dessert enjoyed during Navaratri.
Mysore Pak
Mysore Pak is a sweet treat that originates from the city of Mysore in Karnataka. It’s made from ghee (clarified butter), sugar, and gram flour. The result is a rich, melt-in-the-mouth dessert that’s savored during Dussehra.
Puliyodarai (Tamarind Rice)
Puliyodarai is a tangy and spicy South Indian rice dish made with tamarind pulp and a flavorful spice mix. It’s a popular dish often prepared for festivals and special occasions.
Obbattu or Holige or Puran Poli
Obbattu or Bobbattu, also known as Holige in Karnataka and Puran Poli in Maharashtra, is a popular sweet flatbread made from chana dal (split chickpea lentils) and jaggery. It’s a traditional delicacy during Dussehra and is enjoyed in southern India.
What is NavRoz?
What is NavRoz?
Indian Parsis celebrate Nowruz, which is the Persian New Year, and it is known as “Navroz” in India. The celebration of Navroz among Indian Parsis has its roots in the Zoroastrian tradition of ancient Persia, and it is celebrated as a cultural and social festival.
Nowruz is a Persian festival that marks the beginning of the new year and the start of spring. It is celebrated on the spring equinox, which usually falls on March 20th or 21st. Nowruz is a combination of two Persian words, “now” meaning new, and “ruz” meaning day. Thus, Nowruz means “new day.”
Where is Nowruz from?
The origins of Nowruz can be traced back to ancient Persia and Zoroastrianism, which was the dominant religion of the region before the arrival of Islam.
Why are they in India?
Zoroastrians, also known as Parsis, have a significant presence in India, particularly in Mumbai and Gujarat. The arrival of Zoroastrians in India can be traced back to ancient history and is attributed to historical events in Persia (present-day Iran). Here’s a brief overview of why and how Zoroastrians came to India:
- Persecution in Persia: Zoroastrianism is one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions, founded by the prophet Zarathustra (Zoroaster) in ancient Persia around the 6th or 7th century BCE. For several centuries, Zoroastrianism was the dominant religion in the region. However, during the 7th century CE, Persia was conquered by Arab forces, and Islam became the dominant religion. Zoroastrians faced religious persecution under Islamic rule, which led to a mass exodus from Persia.
- Arrival in India: Seeking refuge from religious persecution, a group of Zoroastrians fled Persia and set sail to various regions to find safe havens. One of these groups landed on the western coast of India in the state of Gujarat around the 8th or 10th century CE. They settled in the town of Sanjan and sought permission from the local king to stay in India.
- The Sanjan Agreement: The Zoroastrian immigrants, led by their priest and spiritual leader, Dasturji Kaus, approached the local king, Jadi Rana, seeking permission to settle in Sanjan. The king, being cautious about accepting foreigners, presented a vessel filled with milk to symbolize that the land was already full and could not accommodate more people. The wise Zoroastrian priest added a pinch of sugar to the milk, signifying that they would blend harmoniously with the existing population. Impressed by this gesture, the king granted them permission to settle, and this event is known as the “Sanjan Agreement”.
- Preservation of Identity: Over the centuries, the Parsis in India retained their distinct Zoroastrian identity and culture while assimilating with Indian society. They have made significant contributions to India’s economic, cultural, and social fabric. Parsis have been active in various fields, such as business, industry, education, and philanthropy.
Today, India is home to a vibrant Parsi community that continues to uphold their Zoroastrian beliefs and traditions. They have established fire temples for worship, and Zoroastrian practices, including the Tower of Silence for the disposal of the dead, are followed by some Parsis.
The Parsis in India have made lasting contributions to the country’s pluralistic and diverse society, and their presence is a testament to India’s tradition of providing refuge and acceptance to those seeking shelter and freedom from persecution.
When is Navroz or Nowruz?
The celebration of Navroz among Indian Parsis usually takes place in the month of March, and it is marked by a variety of customs and traditions. The celebrations usually begin a few days before the actual day of Navroz, and the preparations include cleaning and decorating the house, buying new clothes, and preparing special dishes.
What are the main traditions?
One of the main traditions of Navroz celebrations among Indian Parsis is the setting up of a Sofreh Haft Sin, which is a traditional table setting consisting of seven items that begin with the Persian letter “sin”. The seven items in the Sofreh Haft Sin include
- Sabzeh (wheat or lentil sprouts),
- Samanu (sweet pudding made from sprouted wheat),
- Senjed (dried fruit of the oleaster tree),
- Seer (garlic),
- Seeb (apple),
- Somāq (sumac berries), and
- Serkeh (vinegar).
- In addition to these seven items, other items such as coins, candles, may also be included in the Sofreh Haft Sin.
Apart from the Sofreh Haft Sin, other customs and traditions observed by Indian Parsis during Navroz celebrations include visiting friends and family, exchanging gifts, and enjoying traditional Parsi dishes such as Sali boti (a meat dish with potato straws), Dhansak (a lentil and meat stew), and Ravo (a sweet dish made with vermicelli and nuts).
Overall, Navroz celebrations among Indian Parsis are marked by joyous and festive gatherings with family and friends, and it is an important occasion for preserving and celebrating their cultural heritage.
The British Raj
Summary
Did you know that British colonial rule in India, which lasted over two centuries, left behind far more than political change? During this time, the British extracted massive wealth from India, leaving behind scars that shaped the nation’s economy and society. From famines to the deindustrialization of India, the consequences of the British Raj are still felt today, influencing inequality and underdevelopment in modern India. This story is one of exploitation, oppression, and an enduring legacy that continues to shape the country’s path.
From Abundance to Abject Poverty
In the 1700s, India was an economic powerhouse, holding 27% of the world’s economy—more than all of Europe combined! But after 250 years of British dominance, India’s share plummeted to less than 3%. This devastating fall tells a grim tale of colonial exploitation.
“In 1700, India’s share of the world economy was 27%, more than all of Europe combined—by the end of British rule, it had fallen to just 3%”
Historical Records
Impact of British Rule
Before British rule, India was a hub of trade and commerce, with flourishing industries like agriculture, textiles, and manufacturing. But after the death of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in 1707, the British seized control, exploiting India for its resources. By the time India gained independence in 1947, the country’s once-thriving industries had collapsed, its economy crippled, and its people divided.
Ancient Indian Industries
India was a far greater industrial and manufacturing nation than any in Europe or Asia. Its textile goods, exquisite jewelry, precious stones, pottery, porcelains, fine metalwork were renowned worldwide.From the writings of JT Sunderland
Textile Industry
India was once a textile superpower, holding a 25–30% share of the global textile trade. But under British rule, India’s vibrant textile industry was crushed by monopolies and disrupted trade links.
Shipbuilding Industry
Indian vessels were known for their elegance, utility, and durability, outlasting English ships by far.
Historical Records
India’s shipbuilding industry was another victim of British exploitation. Indian vessels, known for their durability and elegance, outlasted British ships by decades. But the British East India Company’s dominance led to the downfall of the Bengali merchant fleet, robbing India of a vital source of revenue.
Bengali ships were much more durable than English ships. Bengali ships had an average lifespan of over 20 years, while English ships were not known to last more than 12.
Merchant contracts from that time period
Steel Industry
Indian made Steel was popularized as Damascus steel which came from the Indian Steel Industry which was the first in the world to provide steel to the world from before the 6th century CE
Historical records
India pioneered the production of crucible steel, also known as Damascus steel, as early as the 6th century CE. This industry, too, was crippled under British rule, leading to a loss of global reputation.
Exploitation by Taxation
Beyond industries, the British imposed harsh taxes on Indian farmers, often forcing them into debt and starvation. This system of exploitation created millions of landless farmers and fueled cycles of poverty.
The Impact of the British Raj
By the late 19th century, India had become Britain’s largest source of revenue. Indian taxes funded British soldiers and civil servants, but the cost to India was catastrophic.
“India is to be bled of money; the Lancet should be directed to those parts where the blood is congested”
Marquess of Salisbury, UK Prime Minister
It’s estimated that the British extracted a jaw-dropping $43 trillion from India during their rule. The construction of railways, often hailed as a British “gift” to India, was primarily for British economic interests, with each mile costing Indians exorbitantly more than what similar infrastructure cost in the U.S.
The total amount of wealth extracted from India by the British amounts to a jaw-dropping $43 trillion.
Modern economists estimation
Railways of India
Every mile of Indian rail cost an inflated £18,000 to construct, compared to only £2,000 for the same distance in the United States.
Historical Records
The British-built railways were used to exploit India’s resources, transporting agricultural goods out of the country—even during famines, which resulted in the deaths of 35 million people.
The Legacy of British Colonialism
“Under British rule, an estimated 35 million preventable deaths occurred due to famines”
Contemporary Records
The story of India’s decline under British rule is a harsh reminder of the destruction wrought by colonialism. Fortunately, since gaining independence, India hasn’t experienced a large-scale famine, and the country is on a path of self-reliance and recovery. While the economic scars run deep, the resilience of India continues to shine.
Conclusion
The story of India’s journey from abundance to abject poverty under British rule stands as a poignant reminder of the price paid for colonialism’s pursuit of wealth and power.
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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