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?)
Did you ever wonder:
What is Indian culture like? Learn more!
Interesting facts about India you didn’t know about!
Explore Indian customs.
Traveling to India? You are in for a treat – Explore here!
Here are a few articles from this site – use the menu at the very top of this page to discover many more…
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.
Ajanta Caves
What are the Ajanta Caves?
The Ajanta Caves are a series of 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave temples that were built between the 2nd century BC and the 6th century AD. The caves are carved into the side of a cliff and contain some of the finest examples of ancient Indian art, particularly paintings and sculptures.
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 Ellora Caves here.
Where are the Ajanta Caves?
The Ajanta Caves are located in the state of Maharashtra in western India, approximately 107 km north of the city of Aurangabad. The caves are situated in the Sahyadri hills, overlooking the Waghora River.
The most convenient way to reach the Ajanta Caves is by air or train to Aurangabad, which is well-connected to major cities in India. Aurangabad has its own airport, the Aurangabad Airport, which has regular flights to and from Mumbai, Delhi, and other major cities in India.
From Aurangabad, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the Ajanta Caves. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours by road, depending on the mode of transportation and traffic conditions.
What are the main features of the Ajanta Caves?
The Ajanta Caves are known for their unique and intricate ancient Buddhist art and architecture. Some of the main features of the caves include:
Rock-cut architecture: The Ajanta Caves were carved out of the rocky hillsides using only hand tools. The result is a series of impressive rock-cut structures that blend seamlessly into the natural landscape.
Paintings: The Ajanta Caves are famous for their exquisite paintings, which depict scenes from the life of the Buddha, as well as stories from the Jataka tales. The paintings were created using natural pigments and are considered to be some of the finest surviving examples of ancient Indian art.
Sculptures: The caves are adorned with numerous sculptures of the Buddha and the bodhisattvas, as well as other religious figures and mythological creatures. The sculptures are intricately carved and feature fine details and expressions.
Chaitya halls: The Ajanta Caves include several large halls, known as chaitya halls, which were used for worship and meditation. The halls are carved out of the rock and feature impressive pillars, arches, and decorative motifs.
Viharas: In addition to the chaitya halls, the Ajanta Caves also include several smaller caves, known as viharas, which were used as living quarters for the monks. The viharas feature simple, functional designs with few decorative elements.
Stupas: The caves also include several stupas, which are domed structures that were used to house Buddhist relics. The stupas are elaborately decorated and feature intricate carvings and sculptures.
What is the story behind the Ajanta Caves?
The story behind the Ajanta Caves is one of ancient Indian history, art, and religion. The caves were built over a period of several centuries, beginning in the 2nd century BCE and continuing until the 6th century CE. They were created primarily as a place of worship and meditation for Buddhist monks.
The location of the caves was chosen because of its remote and secluded setting in the Sahyadri hills of Maharashtra, which provided a peaceful and tranquil environment for the monks to practice their faith. Over the years, the caves were expanded and decorated with elaborate carvings, sculptures, and paintings that depicted the life of the Buddha and stories from the Jataka tales.
The caves were used for many years by the Buddhist monks, but they eventually fell into disuse and were abandoned. For centuries, they remained hidden and forgotten, until they were rediscovered by a group of British soldiers in the early 19th century.
Since their rediscovery, the Ajanta Caves have been recognized as one of the most important archaeological sites in India, and they have attracted visitors from around the world who come to marvel at their beauty and learn about the ancient Buddhist culture and history of the region.
What are the paintings about?
The paintings in the caves depict various scenes from the life of Buddha, as well as other religious and secular themes. The sculptures include images of Buddha and other deities, as well as scenes from daily life.
![Bodhisatva Padmapani - This painting is in Cave 1 of Ajanta caves.](https://i0.wp.com/umedesi.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2023/03/Ajanta0002.jpg?resize=525%2C700&ssl=1)
One of the most famous paintings in the Ajanta Caves is the “Bodhisattva Padmapani” painting in Cave 1. This painting depicts the Bodhisattva (enlightened being) Padmapani holding a lotus flower and standing in a graceful pose. The painting is noted for its fine details, such as the delicate folds of the Bodhisattva’s robes and the intricate patterns on his crown and jewelry. The painting is considered to be one of the finest examples of ancient Indian art and is a testament to the incredible skill and craftsmanship of the artists who created it.
What is the significance of Ajanta Caves?
The significance of the Ajanta Caves lies in their historical, cultural, and artistic value. The caves are considered to be one of the greatest surviving examples of ancient Indian art and architecture. They also provide important insights into the religious and cultural practices of ancient India, particularly Buddhism.
Are there any unique features that set these apart?
One of the unique features of the Ajanta Caves is their construction. The caves were carved into the side of a horseshoe-shaped cliff, and were excavated by hand using chisels and hammers. The craftsmen who built the caves were skilled in rock-cut architecture and were able to create intricate carvings and sculptures on the cave walls.
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![Bodhisatva Padmapani](https://i0.wp.com/umedesi.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2023/03/Ajanta0002.jpg?ssl=1)
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Who built the caves?
The Ajanta Caves were built over a period of several centuries, from around the 2nd century BCE to the 6th century CE.
It is not known exactly who built the Ajanta Caves, as there are no concrete references that tell us who the craftsmen were. However, it is believed that the caves were built over a period of several centuries, between the 2nd century BC and the 6th century AD. It is believed that the caves were created under the patronage of various rulers and patrons of the time, including the Satavahana dynasty, the Vakataka dynasty, and the Chalukya dynasty.
The rest of the cave complex at Ajanta consists of a series of 30 rock-cut caves, which are numbered from 1 to 30. The caves are divided into two phases of construction: the earlier Hinayana phase, which consists of caves 9, 10, 12, 13, and 15A, and the later Mahayana phase, which consists of the remaining caves.
The caves contain a wealth of art and sculpture, including paintings, carvings, and sculptures of Buddhist deities and scenes from Buddhism.
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![How the caves look from outside](https://i0.wp.com/umedesi.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2023/03/Ajanta0013.jpg?ssl=1)
What are the most famous of Ajanta Caves?
The Ajanta Caves are a series of 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments located in Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, India. The caves are famous for their unique and exquisite ancient Buddhist art and architecture, dating back to the 2nd century BCE to the 6th century CE.
The most famous caves at Ajanta are:
Cave 1: This is the oldest and largest cave at Ajanta, also known as the Great Chaitya. It is a spectacular rock-cut cave with a large prayer hall and a stupa.
Cave 2: This is another significant cave at Ajanta, also known as the Maharaja’s Cave. It features impressive carvings of Buddha and Bodhisattvas, as well as scenes from the Jataka tales.
Cave 4: This cave is famous for its exquisite sculptures of Buddha and the bodhisattvas. It is also known for its magnificent ceiling painting of a Bodhisattva.
Cave 16: This cave is known for its magnificent sculptures and frescoes depicting the life of Buddha, as well as scenes from the Jataka tales.
Cave 17: This cave is known for its impressive paintings of Avalokitesvara, the bodhisattva of compassion.
Cave 19: This cave is known for its exquisite paintings depicting the life of Buddha and scenes from the Jataka tales.
Cave 26: This cave is famous for its large statue of Buddha in the preaching pose.
Cave 29: This cave is known for its unique architectural features, including a horseshoe-shaped facade and an octagonal-shaped interior.
Cave 30: This cave is the smallest at Ajanta, but it features some of the finest paintings in the entire complex.
Cave 6: This cave is significant for its impressive sculptures of Buddha and the bodhisattvas, as well as scenes from the Jataka tales.
Cave 10: This cave is known for its intricate carvings of women and celestial beings, as well as scenes from the life of Buddha.
Ancient Paintings in Ajanta Caves
Read more about the paintings
The paintings in the Ajanta Caves are considered to be one of the greatest surviving examples of ancient Indian art. They were executed in a unique style using natural pigments made from minerals, plants, and other organic materials.
The paintings depict various scenes from the life of Buddha, as well as other religious and secular themes. The themes of the paintings are divided into two categories, Jataka stories and the life of Buddha. The Jataka stories are tales of the Buddha’s previous lives, and are depicted in caves 1, 2, 16, and 17. The life of Buddha is depicted in caves 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 11, 12, 13, 15A, 16, 17, 19, 24, and 26.
The paintings are executed in a vibrant and colorful style, with a high degree of realism and attention to detail. The artists used shading and perspective to create the illusion of three-dimensional space, and used a range of colors to create a sense of depth and richness.
Some of the most famous paintings in the Ajanta Caves include the “Mahaparinirvana” painting in Cave 26, which depicts the death of Buddha, and the “Temptation of the Buddha” painting in Cave 17, which depicts the Buddha being tempted by Mara, the god of desire.
The paintings in the Ajanta Caves are an important source of information about the religious and cultural practices of ancient India, particularly Buddhism. They provide insights into the beliefs, values, and traditions of the people who lived in ancient India, and are an important cultural and artistic treasure of the country.
What materials were used for the paintings, which lasted for centuries?
Read More about Materials used in the paintings and how old these paintings are
The paintings in the Ajanta Caves were executed using a range of natural pigments made from minerals, plants, and other organic materials. The pigments used include red and yellow ochre, lampblack, copper sulfate, indigo, and lapis lazuli.The paintings in the Ajanta Caves are executed in a distinctive style known as the Ajanta style. This style is characterized by its use of bright colors, a high degree of realism and attention to detail, and a sense of movement and dynamism. The artists used shading and perspective to create the illusion of three-dimensional space, and used a range of colors to create a sense of depth and richness.
It is difficult to estimate the exact age of the paintings in the Ajanta Caves based on the materials used. However, it is believed that the paintings were executed over a period of several centuries, between the 2nd century BC and the 6th century AD. The materials used in the paintings are consistent with the period in which they were executed, and provide important insights into the artistic and cultural practices of ancient India.
Are there similar examples of paintings elsewhere?
Read More about other examples of similar paintings elsewhere
There are examples of ancient paintings from other parts of the world that were executed using similar materials as those used in the Ajanta Caves. For example, ancient Egyptian wall paintings were executed using natural pigments made from minerals, plants, and other organic materials, including red and yellow ochre, copper sulfate, and charcoal. Similarly, ancient Chinese paintings were executed using natural pigments made from plants, minerals, and other organic materials, including indigo, vermilion, and cinnabar.The age of these paintings varies depending on the specific examples. For example, some of the earliest surviving examples of ancient Egyptian wall paintings date back to the 4th millennium BC, while the oldest surviving examples of ancient Chinese paintings date back to the Han dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD).
While the materials used in the paintings in the Ajanta Caves are similar to those used in other ancient paintings, the style and content of the Ajanta paintings are unique to India and are an important example of ancient Indian art and culture.
To recap – here are some of the interesting facts about Ajanta Caves:
- The Ajanta Caves are a group of 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments located in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, India.
- The caves were built in two phases, with the first phase dating back to the 2nd century BCE and the second phase to the 5th century CE.
- The caves are famous for their stunning paintings, which are considered to be some of the finest surviving examples of ancient Indian art. The paintings depict scenes from the life of the Buddha, as well as other religious and secular subjects.
- The caves were rediscovered in 1819 by a British officer named John Smith, who was hunting tigers in the area. He stumbled upon the caves by chance and was struck by their beauty and historical significance.
- The Ajanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are considered to be one of the greatest surviving examples of ancient Indian architecture and art.
- The caves were constructed by skilled artisans who carved the rock surfaces by hand using only chisels and hammers. The intricate carvings and sculptures are a testament to the incredible skill and craftsmanship of the ancient Indian artisans.
- The caves were abandoned in the 7th century CE, possibly due to a combination of factors, including the decline of Buddhism in India and political upheaval in the region.
- The Ajanta Caves are also known for their impressive engineering feats, such as the sophisticated water management system that allowed for the collection and distribution of rainwater throughout the complex.
- The caves attract thousands of visitors every year, who come to marvel at their beauty and learn about the rich cultural and religious history of ancient India.
- The Ajanta Caves have been the subject of numerous films, documentaries, and books, and continue to be a source of fascination and inspiration for people around the world.
What you need to know before you visit…
More about Ajanta cave Murals or paintings
The Indian cultural secret to Great Customer Service
Customer service, and how learning about Indian culture can make it the best ever!
First let us look at customer service:
What is customer service?
Customer service refers to the support and assistance provided by a business or organization to its customers before, during, and after a purchase. It involves ensuring that customers are satisfied with their experience and helping them resolve any issues or concerns they may have.
In general, good customer service involves being responsive, helpful, and empathetic towards customers, understanding their needs and concerns, and providing effective solutions to any issues that may arise.
How does customer service look like?
Customer service can look different in various scenarios and contexts, as it depends on the type of business or organization, the industry, and the customer base.
For instance, customer service in a retail store may involve greeting customers, providing product recommendations, processing transactions, and addressing any complaints or returns.
On the other hand, customer service in a call center may involve answering questions, resolving technical issues, and providing information about products or services.
What are some examples of it, in action?
Examples of customer service include:
![Customer Service](https://i0.wp.com/umedesi.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2023/04/charanjeet-dhiman-mHusyBu4bxM-unsplash.jpg?resize=580%2C387&ssl=1)
A customer calling a company’s customer service hotline to report a problem with their product. The representative listens to the customer’s complaint, offers a solution, and follows up with the customer to ensure their issue has been resolved.
![Friendly waiter taking customer orders in a restaurant](https://i0.wp.com/umedesi.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2023/04/3dc24c3e-5edc-4773-8e8f-a4a389ee3459.jpeg?resize=580%2C580&ssl=1)
A customer visiting a restaurant and being greeted by a friendly and attentive server who takes their order, checks on their satisfaction during the meal, and offers dessert or additional beverages.
![Customer service](https://i0.wp.com/umedesi.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2023/04/malte-helmhold-7xlg2MuTk9c-unsplash.jpg?resize=580%2C387&ssl=1)
A customer shopping online and encountering an issue with their order. They reach out to the company’s customer service via email or chat, and the representative responds promptly, offering a solution and ensuring the customer receives their order as soon as possible.
What does Indian culture have anything to do with customer service?
Technically, it does not. But functionally it has everything to do with it.
We saw how it looks like in the examples and by a definition mentioned above.
Let us forget those for a minute and let us take a look at some aspects of a custom from the Indian culture.
It is quite important to understand the context of what we are referring to later on.
There are a lot of customs and traditions in a culture.
Particularly, over time some traditional protocols are established and you can see this when you interact with people from diverse cultures.
How people greet each other and their interactions in various contexts show the unique nature of that region’s cultural traditions.
How do Indians greet someone?
When most Indians meet someone – the traditional way is to bring both palms together at chest height, a slight bow of the head towards the person/s being greeted and saying Namaste or Namaskar.
![A digital illustration in a vibrant, contemporary pop art style, featuring a man and woman in traditional Andhra Pradesh attire, facing forward and welcome guests with a Namaste](https://i0.wp.com/umedesi.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2023/04/AndhraCoupleWelcomeNamaste.jpg?resize=580%2C332&ssl=1)
Learn more about greeting someone in India
Showing respect to everyone is paramount in everyday interactions, especially to people who may be or perceived to be older than oneself.
![Bride greeting elders with Namaste](https://i0.wp.com/umedesi.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2023/04/namasthe.jpg?resize=580%2C361&ssl=1)
Even while referring to someone a respectful word is attached to the persons name indicating respect. It’s quite common for younger folks referring to someone older as Uncle and Aunty (in the regional language – do note there are many ways for these two relationships) instead of using their given names even if they are not related to them – as a sign of respect.
When someone is seen as closer to their age – they call them the word for Brother or Older brother or sister as the case maybe.
Why do most Indians refer to elders as Uncle or Aunty even if they are not related?
In India and in the surrounding region, there are specific words for relationships. To put it in context in a western or English words used – let us look at what we call siblings, then cousins and older relatives.
The words for brothers, sisters, uncles, and aunts vary across different languages in India. In the modern day, Uncle and Aunty are commonly used in place of these below.
Here are some examples:
Hindi:
- Brother: Bhai (भाई)
- Sister: Behan (बहन)
- Uncle (paternal): Chacha (चाचा)
- Uncle (maternal): Mama (मामा)
- Aunt (paternal): Chachi (चाची)
- Aunt (maternal): Mami (मामी)
Bengali:
- Brother: Bhai (ভাই)
- Sister: Bon (বোন)
- Uncle (paternal): Kak (কাক)
- Uncle (maternal): Jethu (জেঠু)
- Aunt (paternal): Pishi (পিসি)
- Aunt (maternal): Mashi (মাসি)
Telugu:
- Brother: Anna (అన్న)
- Sister: Akka (అక్క)
- Uncle (paternal): Pedananna (పెదనన్న)
- Uncle (maternal): Mamayya (మామయ్య)
- Aunt (paternal): Peddamma (పెద్దమ్మ)
- Aunt (maternal): Pinni
Marathi:
- Brother: Bhau (भाऊ)
- Sister: Bahin (बहिण)
- Uncle (paternal): Kaka (काका)
- Uncle (maternal): Mama (मामा)
- Aunt (paternal): Aai (आई)
- Aunt (maternal): Maushi (माऊशी)
In many Indian languages, the words for relatives are specific to the gender and age of the person being referred to, as well as their relationship to the speaker. The use of these specific terms shows respect and acknowledges the complexity of relationships. Each term carries its own nuance, conveying not just who they are, but how you relate to them in the family context.
But here’s the twist: this rich vocabulary often spills over to refer to anyone older than you, even outside your circle of blood relatives. The familiar “Uncle” and “Aunty” become respectful way of addressing strangers too, acknowledging their seniority and experience. So, the shopkeeper down the street, the friendly neighbor, or even the taxi driver – they might all be called “Uncle” or “Aunty” or “Bhai” (brother) or “Behan” (sister).
These words for specific relations are sometimes used to refer to total strangers as a sign of respect.
Additionally it’s very common to add “ji” to the end of a name or a relational term, like “Uncleji” or “Behanji” (‘Behan’ meaning sister), as a way of showing respect. It’s a courteous suffix used in both formal and informal settings.
While addressing actual relatives or strangers, this addition elevates the level of politeness in the conversation. Similar practices exist in other languages and cultures, where specific words or suffixes are attached to names to indicate respect, especially when addressing elders or strangers. This cultural practice underscores the value placed on respect and formality in interpersonal interactions.
How are guests treated in an Indian home?
Guests are treated with a great deal of respect and hospitality in Indian homes.
![A guest is served a meal in an traditional manner in an Indian home](https://i0.wp.com/umedesi.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2023/04/adb002.jpg?resize=580%2C326&ssl=1)
Here are some cultural and traditional customs associated with how guests are treated in Indian homes:
![Indian Lady welcoming guests with traditional welcome](https://i0.wp.com/umedesi.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2023/04/Indian-beautiful-woman-in-Saree-holding-Puja-or-Pooja-Thali.jpg?resize=580%2C316&ssl=1)
- Welcoming the Guest: As soon as the guest arrives, they are welcomed with a warm greeting, often with a garland of flowers or a tilak (a mark made with vermilion powder on the forehead) and offered a seat. The host or hostess may also offer the guest a glass of water or a hot beverage like tea or coffee.
- Serving Food: In Indian culture, offering food to the guest is considered a way of showing respect and hospitality. Guests are often served a variety of dishes, including snacks, main course, and desserts. It is also common to serve the guest the best food the family has to offer.
- Accommodation: If the guest is staying overnight, the host provides them with comfortable accommodation. They may be given a private room or a bed in a common area.
- Departure: When it is time for the guest to leave, the host or hostess may offer them a parting gift as a token of appreciation for their visit. They may also accompany the guest to the door or the gate and say goodbye.
Almost anywhere in India – regardless of whether the host is well off or not, it’s common for travelers and visitors to be offered a place to clean up or to bathe, clean clothes, a hot meal at a minimum, and a place to rest. The host family will offer the best of everything they have.
These customs are deeply ingrained in Indian culture and are seen as a way of showing respect, love, and hospitality to guests.
Athidi Devo Bhava – The guest is God!
Indian cultural traditions
It is believed that when a guest comes to one’s home, they are a representative of God and should be treated as such.
![Athithi Devo Bhava - Guest is God](https://i0.wp.com/umedesi.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2023/04/adb001-768x432-1.jpg?resize=580%2C326&ssl=1)
What does ‘Athithi Devo Bhava’ mean?
“Athithi Devo Bhava” is a Sanskrit phrase that means “Guest is equivalent to God.”
This phrase is often quoted in Indian culture to emphasize the importance of treating guests with the utmost respect and hospitality.
It is believed that when a guest comes to one’s home, they are a representative of God and should be treated as such. This concept is deeply ingrained in Indian culture.
And that folks is what Indian culture can help us learn about Customer service. Treating our customers like a guest in an Indian home or rather using that concept:
It is OUR privilege to SERVE our customers with respect, affection & anticipate and fulfill their needs before they have to ask – just as we would if they are our guest in OUR home.
Key principles in action
- Respect, Respect, Respect
- Understand the needs
- Anticipate the next need/s
- Serve with humility and affection
- Offer the BEST of what we have
- Invite back
This will definitely lead to higher customer satisfaction and retention.
Let us know what you think, and if you have tried this how it has worked for you.
Try it out today on your friends and family to test this concept out – Treat them like your top customers!
Are there different customs in different regions of India?
India is a diverse country with many different regions, each with their own unique customs and traditions when it comes to hospitality and treating guests. Here are some examples of how guests are treated in different regions of India:
- North India: In North India, guests are often welcomed with aarti, a ritual in which a lamp is waved in front of the guest as a sign of welcome. They may also be offered paan, a preparation made with betel leaves, nuts, and spices. It is common to serve guests rich and spicy food, and to make sure they are well-fed and comfortable.
- South India: In South India, guests are often welcomed with a garland of flowers and a traditional sweet called Mysore pak. They are also served a variety of vegetarian dishes, including rice, lentils, and vegetables. In some parts of South India, guests are also offered a banana leaf as a plate to eat their food from.
- East India: In East India, guests are often welcomed with a gamosa, a traditional cloth towel. They may also be served a refreshing drink made with mangoes, or a sweet made with jaggery and coconut called rasgulla. In some parts of East India, it is also customary to offer guests a traditional paan made with mustard oil and betel leaves.
- West India: In West India, guests are often welcomed with a tikka, a mark made with vermilion powder on the forehead. They may also be served a refreshing drink made with kokum or a sweet made with milk and sugar called peda. In some parts of West India, guests are also offered a traditional snack called farsan, which is made with gram flour.
- Northeast India: In Northeast India, guests are often welcomed with a traditional shawl or scarf called a phanek. They may also be offered a refreshing drink made with fermented rice called chang or a sweet made with black sesame called til pitha. In some parts of Northeast India, guests are also offered a traditional rice beer called apong.
What about in other countries in the region?
Hospitality and treating guests with respect and honor is an important cultural value in many countries and cultures around the world, including those neighboring India. Here are a few examples:
- Nepal: Similar to India, Nepalese culture places a great deal of importance on hospitality and treating guests with respect. Guests are often welcomed with a garland of flowers or a khada, a traditional silk scarf. They are also offered food and beverages, and it is customary to serve the guest the best food the family has to offer.
- Bhutan: In Bhutanese culture, guests are welcomed with a cup of suja, a salty butter tea, and a plate of traditional snacks. It is customary to offer guests a comfortable place to sit and to engage in conversation with them.
- Iran: In Iranian culture, hospitality is known as “Mehman Nawazi.” Guests are often welcomed with tea or coffee, sweets, and a range of snacks. It is also customary to offer guests a comfortable place to sit and engage in conversation.
- Turkey: In Turkish culture, hospitality is known as “Misafirperverlik.” Guests are welcomed with tea, coffee, or sherbet, and are often offered a range of snacks and sweets. It is also common to offer guests a place to rest or to stay overnight.
- Japan: In Japanese culture, hospitality is known as “Omotenashi.” Guests are often welcomed with a bow and a warm greeting. It is customary to offer guests a comfortable place to sit and to provide them with food and beverages.
Important Disclaimer: Just because your Indian origin/desi friends do not treat you exactly as described above does not mean disrespect! Traditions have changed over time, but the principles do remain in action. (But if you think it will help, feel free to forward them this link 😉
Meenakshi Temple
The Meenakshi Temple is one of the most significant and revered temples in Tamil Nadu, India.
Top Image Credit எஸ்ஸார், CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Where is the Meenakshi Amman Temple?
The Meenakshi Amman (Amman – Mother) It is located in the city of Madurai, and is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi, an incarnation of Parvati, and her consort Lord Sundareswarar, who is an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The temple is also known as the Meenakshi-Sundareswarar Temple, and is considered one of the finest examples of Tamilian architecture.
Madurai, the city where the temple is located, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history dating back to the 3rd century BCE.
The Meenakshi Temple was built in the 17th century by the Nayak dynasty, who ruled over Madurai at that time. The temple complex covers an area of about 15 acres and is made up of four main entrances or gopurams, which are adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. The main gopuram is over 50 meters tall, making it one of the tallest temple towers in India.
The main deity of the Meenakshi Temple is Goddess Meenakshi, who is considered the presiding deity of Madurai. She is depicted with four arms, holding a lotus, a parrot, a bow, and a scepter. Lord Sundareswarar, her consort, is depicted with one arm holding a trident and the other in a gesture of blessing.
The Meenakshi Temple is renowned for its Tamilian architectural style, characterized by towering gopurams, intricate carvings, and colorful paintings.
The temple’s pillars, ceilings, and walls are adorned with elaborate sculptures depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and daily life. The temple is also famous for its golden lotus tank, which is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva performed his cosmic dance.
Special Features in the temple
Gopurams
A gopuram is a monumental tower, usually ornately decorated, that is a prominent feature of the entrances to many Hindu temples in South India. These towers are typically made of stone or brick, and rise to several stories, with each story featuring intricate carvings and sculptures depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.
In South Indian temple architecture, the gopuram is an essential element and serves as the gateway to the temple’s inner sanctum. It is believed that the gopuram acts as a symbolic boundary between the physical world and the spiritual realm, and that crossing the threshold of the gopuram is equivalent to entering a sacred space.
The Meenakshi Temple in Madurai, Tamil Nadu has 14 gopurams or towers, with the four tallest ones located at the entrances on the four cardinal directions. Each of these gopurams has a unique name and significance, which are as follows:
East Gopuram
This is the main entrance to the temple and is known as the “Indra Vimanam” as it is believed to be the abode of the Hindu god Indra.
South Gopuram
This entrance is known as the “Sundara Pandya Vimanam” named after the Pandya king who is said to have built the gopuram.
West Gopuram
This entrance is called the “Velli Vayil Vimanam” which means “Silver Courtyard Tower.” It is said to have been covered in silver plates in ancient times.
North Gopuram
This entrance is known as the “Kadaka Vimanam” named after the sage Kadamba who is believed to have built it.
The remaining 10 gopurams are smaller and are located within the temple complex. Each of these gopurams also has a unique name and significance, which are as follows:
Ashta Shakthi Mandapam Gopuram
This gopuram leads to the Ashta Shakthi Mandapam, which is a hall dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi’s eight forms.
Kilikoondu Mandapam Gopuram
This gopuram leads to the Kilikoondu Mandapam, which is a hall where the temple elephant is housed.
Ashta Bhuja Gopuram
This gopuram leads to a shrine dedicated to the eight-armed goddess Durga.
Sundareswarar Shrine Gopuram
This gopuram leads to the shrine of the temple’s presiding deity, Lord Sundareswarar.
Meenakshi Nayakkar Mandapam Gopuram
This gopuram leads to a hall used for religious and cultural performances.
Pudu Mandapam Gopuram
This gopuram leads to a hall used for temple processions.
Vasantha Mandapam Gopuram
This gopuram leads to a hall that is used during the spring festival of Vasanthotsavam.
Oonjal Mandapam Gopuram
This gopuram leads to a hall where the deities are placed on swings during festivals.
Kilikoondu Mandapam Vayil Gopuram
This gopuram leads to the courtyard where the temple elephant is bathed.
Shenbaga Vimanam Gopuram
This gopuram leads to a shrine dedicated to the god Vishnu.
Mandapas
Mandapas, are pillared halls or pavilions found in Hindu temples. These halls are used for religious and cultural events such as music, dance, and recitals, and also serve as spaces for devotees to gather and meditate.
The Meenakshi Temple in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, has several mantapas within its complex, each with its own unique name and significance. Some of the mantapas in the temple are:
Ashta Shakthi Mandapam
This is a hall dedicated to the eight forms of the goddess Meenakshi, and is located in the eastern part of the temple complex. It is also known as the “Hall of Eight Shakthis” and is used for various cultural and religious events.
Kilikoondu Mandapam
This is a pillared hall located near the temple tank, and is used for storing the temple chariots and the temple elephant.
Meenakshi Nayakar Mandapam
This is a hall located on the northern side of the temple complex and is used for various events such as music concerts and dance performances.
Oonjal Mandapam
This is a pavilion located in the southwest corner of the temple complex and is used during temple festivals. It is also called the “Swing Pavilion” and is where the deities are placed on swings.
Pudu Mandapam
This is a hall located near the eastern entrance of the temple, and is used for various events during temple festivals.
Vasantha Mandapam
This is a hall located on the northern side of the temple complex, and is used during the spring festival of Vasanthotsavam.
Raja Gopuram Mandapam
This is a hall located in the tallest gopuram of the temple, and is used for various events during temple festivals.
Interesting facts about the Meenakshi Temple and the surrounding area include:
- The temple has 14 gopurams, with the tallest one being the southern tower, which is 170 feet tall.
- The temple complex has several shrines and halls, including the 1000-pillar hall, which is renowned for its intricate carvings and sculptures.
- The temple is a popular pilgrimage site, with thousands of devotees visiting every day.
- The temple also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Meenakshi Thirukalyanam, which celebrates the marriage of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar.
- Madurai, the city where the temple is located, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history dating back to the 3rd century BCE.
- The city has been an important center of trade and culture for centuries and is known for its rich heritage, including its music, dance, and cuisine.
- Madurai is also known for its street food, including the famous Madurai Jigarthanda, a refreshing drink made with milk, almond gum, and nannari syrup, and the delicious Madurai idli, which is softer and fluffier than the typical South Indian idli.
- Madurai is also home to several other important temples, including the Koodal Azhagar Temple, the Pazhamudhir Solai Temple, and the Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple, all of which are worth visiting.
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.
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