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:
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Interesting facts about India you didn’t know about!
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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.
Barabagh
Badabagh, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
In the outskirts of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, there is a complex known as Bada Bagh, which is famous for its cenotaphs.
Bada Bagh, also referred to as Barabagh, is an ancient royal cenotaph garden located about 6 kilometers from the city of Jaisalmer. It is a serene and captivating place where you can find a series of beautifully crafted chhatris (cenotaphs) dedicated to the rulers of the Bhatti dynasty.
The cenotaphs are made of yellow sandstone and showcase intricate architectural designs. They stand tall against the backdrop of the desert landscape, creating a mesmerizing sight. Bada Bagh is a popular tourist attraction where visitors can explore the rich history and architectural heritage of Jaisalmer.
Cultural Significance
The cenotaphs at Bada Bagh in Jaisalmer hold significant cultural and historical importance. They are dedicated to the rulers of the Bhatti dynasty, who played a crucial role in the history of Jaisalmer.
In Rajasthani culture, cenotaphs, also known as chhatris, serve as memorial structures to honor and commemorate the deceased. These cenotaphs are constructed in a distinctive architectural style, reflecting the artistic traditions of the region. The cenotaphs at Bada Bagh are primarily made of yellow sandstone, which is a characteristic feature of Jaisalmer’s architecture.
Each cenotaph is adorned with intricate carvings, depicting scenes from the lives of the rulers and their valorous deeds. The chhatris are often decorated with intricate motifs, including floral patterns, ornamental designs, and religious symbols. The craftsmanship displayed on these structures is a testament to the artistic skill and cultural heritage of the region.
Visiting the cenotaphs at Bada Bagh provides a glimpse into the regal history of Jaisalmer and offers an opportunity to pay respects to the rulers who once reigned over the land. It allows visitors to appreciate the architectural splendor and immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of Rajasthan.
These cenotaphs not only serve as architectural marvels but also serve as a link to the past, preserving the memory and legacy of the Bhatti rulers for generations to come. They stand as a reminder of the glorious history of Jaisalmer and the contributions of the rulers who shaped the region’s identity.
What’s a Chhatri? When were these built?
A chhatri, is a type of architectural feature commonly found in Indian and Rajasthani architecture. The word “chhatri” translates to “umbrella” or “canopy” in Hindi. It refers to a small, dome-shaped pavilion or cenotaph that is often supported by pillars.
Chhatris were traditionally built as memorial structures or cenotaphs to honor important individuals, such as royalty or high-ranking officials. They served as architectural tributes to commemorate the deceased and their contributions to society. Chhatris were typically constructed in prominent locations, such as near water bodies, atop hills, or within temple complexes.
The construction of chhatris flourished during the medieval period in India, particularly from the 16th to the 19th centuries. They can be found across various regions of India, with notable examples in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat.
The chhatris are characterized by their elegant design and elaborate decorations. They often feature intricately carved pillars, domes, and arches, showcasing the architectural skills and artistic traditions of the time. The materials used for construction vary, ranging from stone and marble to sandstone and brick, depending on the region and the resources available.
Chhatris are not limited to cenotaphs but can also be found as decorative elements in palace complexes, temples, and havelis (traditional mansions). They continue to be an integral part of Indian architecture, representing the cultural heritage and artistic finesse of the bygone eras.
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)
Mahabharata by Amar Chitra Katha- The Birth of Bhagavad Gita- 42 Comic Books in 3 Volumes
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.
Why are people eating with their hands?
Why do Indians eat with their hands?
Eating with hands is a common practice in many cultures around the world, including India.
Indian cuisine is incredibly diverse, with a wide array of flavors, textures, and aromas and the foods of India mostly require one to use their hands with some level of dexterity.
Indian food needs it’s own techniques and it’s not even as simple as using yours hands!
Some Indian dude probably 🙂
Consider, for example rice: which is a staple food – it is bland by itself. It’s always paired or served with something else to give it the flavor it needs – usually lentils, meats and vegetables (cooked with a rich mix of spices) commonly known as curries (and so many more types) and pickles.
The consistency of these different flavorings or curries require one to gently mix these intense flavors with the rice well enough to get an uniform flavor for each scoop. Forks and spoons are good too but cannot give you an authentic experience.
In some areas different types of flat breads called roti, chapati, paratha and so on and in the south some crepe like foods are part of the meals.
These breads and crepes need to be broken into pieces and used to scoop the accompanying curries or chutneys and they complement each other and complete the flavor profile – which by themselves are either too bland or too spicy.
The food demands personal attention to really get the taste the recipe & cooks intended!
The bonus of course eating with hands is a more intimate and personal experience, as it connects the individual to the food they are consuming.
But, how do you actually eat with your hands?
First, wash your hands. Then use your fingers to tear any chapati’s or Dosa etc and use that piece of (Bread or crepe) to gather a curry or chutney and then eat that whole.
It sounds complicated, but really it’s not. 😛
Here is someone who did a better job of explaining this:
Or, if you would rather watch a video with step by step instructions, check these out:
Or check out this short video:
Cleanliness is an important aspect of Indian culture, and it is customary to wash one’s hands before and after meals. In fact, the concept of hygiene and cleanliness is deeply ingrained in Indian culture and has been practiced for centuries.
The Rig Veda, one of the oldest texts in the world dating back to 1500 BCE, describes several methods of water purification.
Water purification in Ancient India
In ancient India, the knowledge of water purification was already established. The Rig Veda, one of the oldest texts in the world dating back to 1500 BCE, describes several methods of water purification. One such method involved boiling water with herbs and letting it cool to remove impurities.
The ancient Indian text Charaka Samhita, written around the 2nd century BCE, also describes several methods of water purification, including boiling, filtering, and exposing it to sunlight.
Do Indians brush their teeth?
The practice of washing up and brushing teeth is also an important part of Indian culture, with ancient texts like the Vedas (dating back to 1500 BCE) mentioning the use of neem twigs as toothbrushes and herbal pastes for oral hygiene.
What is neem? And what does neem have to do with dental hygiene?
Yes, Indians have been brushing their teeth for thousands of years!
Indian customs
The Ayurvedic system of medicine, which originated in India thousands of years ago, also emphasizes the importance of oral hygiene and cleanliness for overall health and well-being.
Overall, the practice of eating with hands and the emphasis on cleanliness and hygiene in India are deeply rooted in the country’s culture and traditions, with a history that goes back thousands of years.
Are there other cultures where they eat with their hands?
Yes, of course. Check out this video on how to eat Ethiopian food:
Ethiopia:
People traditionally eat with their hands in Asia, the middle east, Africa and South America.
Try it, but check out the techniques above for a master level proficiency.
Why is it common to use utensils?
Let us look at how these evolved over time:
- Early humans: The earliest humans ate with their hands, as did most cultures around the world until relatively recently. This was because utensils were not necessary for eating most foods, and because they could be difficult to make and clean.
- Ancient Greece and Rome: The Greeks and Romans were the first cultures to develop a wide variety of utensils, including spoons, forks, and knives. These utensils were made of metal and were often quite ornate. They were used for both eating and for ceremonial purposes.
- Middle Ages: In the Middle Ages, the use of utensils declined in Europe. This was due in part to the fact that metal was scarce, people ate with their hands, or with pieces of bread or other food.
- Renaissance: The Renaissance saw a revival in the use of utensils in Europe. This was due in part to the rediscovery of classical Greek and Roman culture, and in part to the fact that metal became more plentiful. Utensils were now seen as a sign of wealth and status, and they became increasingly popular among the upper classes.
Is it customary to eat with hands? Is that hygienic?
The tradition of eating with hands in India is not necessarily connected to the idea of being cleaner, but rather a way of being more in touch with the food and the act of eating.
And yes, it IS hygienic.
In ancient India, the knowledge of disease transmission and the importance of cleanliness was well-documented in texts like Ayurveda. Ayurveda, a traditional system of medicine, emphasized the significance of hygiene in maintaining good health. This system recognized that disease could be caused by germs and pathogens, and it advocated for measures to prevent their spread.
One of the fundamental practices Ayurveda prescribed was the regular washing of hands and maintaining overall cleanliness. People were encouraged to wash their hands with water and, in some cases, special herbal concoctions to minimize the risk of infection. Additionally, rituals of purification before meals helped ensure that individuals were free from potential contaminants while handling food.
On the other hand, in other civilizations, the understanding of disease transmission was comparatively limited in ancient times. The concept of germs and their role in spreading illnesses was not widely known until the pioneering work of scientists like Louis Pasteur and Robert Koch in the 19th century. Before that, the prevailing theories often revolved around supernatural causes or imbalances in bodily humors.
With this limited understanding of disease transmission, the importance of hygiene, including handwashing, wasn’t as prominent in other cultures during ancient and medieval times. As a result, the practice of eating with hands, which could potentially transfer germs from hand to mouth, might have had different implications in these societies compared to the hygienic practices in ancient India.
Hygiene and cleanliness is deeply ingrained in Indian culture and has been practiced for centuries.
Indian customs
Approach to cleanliness
Western Civilizations
- Brushing teeth: The earliest evidence of brushing in Western civilizations dates back to ancient Egypt, where people used twigs to clean their teeth. However, brushing teeth did not become widespread until the 18th century, when the first mass-produced toothbrushes were introduced.
- Bathing frequently: Bathing was not a common practice in Western civilizations until the 19th century. This was due in part to the fact that bathing was seen as a luxury, and in part to the fact that bathing was not considered to be essential for good hygiene. However, as people became more aware of the importance of hygiene, bathing became more common.
- Keeping houses and kitchens clean: Keeping houses and kitchens clean was not a priority in Western civilizations until the 19th century. This was due in part to the fact that people did not know as much about germs as they do today. However, as people became more aware of the importance of hygiene, keeping houses and kitchens clean became more common.
Eastern Civilizations
- Brushing teeth: The earliest evidence of brushing teeth in Eastern civilizations dates back to ancient India, where people used twigs to clean their teeth. Brushing was also practiced in China and Japan, and it was seen as an important part of maintaining good health.
- Bathing frequently: Bathing was a common practice in Eastern civilizations, and it was seen as an important part of maintaining good health. People bathed in rivers, lakes, and streams, and they also used baths in their homes.
- Keeping houses and kitchens clean: Keeping houses and kitchens clean was also a priority in Eastern civilizations, and it was seen as an important part of maintaining good health. People swept their houses regularly, and they also cleaned their kitchens before after cooking.
Eating with hands or utensils
The practice of eating with hands or utensils varied depending on the culture. In some cultures, eating with hands was seen as more hygienic, while in other cultures, eating with utensils was seen as more hygienic.
In Western civilizations, eating with utensils became the norm in the 19th century. This was due in part to the fact that people became more aware of the importance of hygiene, and in part to the fact that utensils were seen as a sign of wealth and status – and convenient for the cuisines.
In Eastern civilizations, eating with hands remained the norm, even though people were aware of the importance of hygiene. This was because people ensured that their hands were cleaned, and eating with hands is also more convenient, natural and intuitive.
Today, there is no one right way to eat. Some people prefer to eat with their hands, while others prefer to eat with utensils. The best way to eat is the way that you feel most comfortable and hygienic.
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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