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!
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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.
Sas Bahu temple
The Sas Bahu Temple, located in Nagda, near Udaipur in Rajasthan, is an architectural gem that showcases the intricate craftsmanship and rich history of the region. This temple, also known as the Sahastra Bahu Temple, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is believed to have been built in the 10th century during the reign of the Paramara dynasty.
The Sas Bahu Temple stands as a testament to the exceptional artistry of the bygone era. It features intricate carvings, exquisite sculptures, and delicate detailing that reflect the influence of the Nagara style of architecture. The temple is adorned with beautifully sculpted idols, depicting various deities and mythological scenes, offering a glimpse into the religious and cultural beliefs of ancient Rajasthan.
The temple’s name, Sas Bahu, translates to “Mother-in-law and Daughter-in-law” in Hindi. It is said that the temple was initially constructed to honor the relationship between a mother-in-law and daughter-in-law, symbolizing harmony and familial bonds.
Visiting the Sas Bahu Temple is a journey into the past, where the architectural brilliance of Rajasthan’s heritage shines through. The intricate carvings, majestic pillars, and serene atmosphere create a captivating ambiance, providing a unique spiritual experience.
Located amidst picturesque surroundings, the Sas Bahu Temple offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city of Udaipur. It serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage and artistic legacy of Rajasthan, inviting visitors to appreciate the grandeur of its historical treasures.
Om or Aum?
Summary
“Om” or “Aum” is a sacred sound with deep spiritual and cultural significance in Indian traditions. It represents the ultimate reality or divine essence. Chanting or saying “Om” is believed to facilitate spiritual growth, self-realization, and connection with the divine.
The benefits of chanting “Om” include relaxation, stress reduction, improved focus, and a sense of harmony and balance. It can promote a calming effect, enhance concentration, and deepen the mind-body connection. Chanting “Om” is considered a powerful tool for meditation, promoting mindfulness, and experiencing inner peace.
Scientific research on chanting “Om” is limited, but studies on meditation practices suggest potential benefits such as increased attention, improved brain function, and enhanced autonomic nervous system activity.
Chanting “Om” is a personal and subjective experience, and its effects may vary from individual to individual. It is recommended to approach chanting with reverence, practice with intention, and observe its effects on your own spiritual and well-being journey.
What is Om or Aum?
Om is a sacred sound and symbol that is important in various Indian traditions. It is considered the primordial sound of the universe, representing the ultimate reality, consciousness, and the essence of existence.
The sound of Om is believed to encompass the three fundamental aspects of existence: creation, preservation, and dissolution.
- The elongated “A” sound represents creation, the waking state of consciousness, and the beginning of all things and the initial manifestation of energy.
- The resonating “U” sound represents preservation, the dreaming state of consciousness, harmony, balance, and the continuity of energy.
- The subtle humming of “M” represents dissolution, the deep sleep state of consciousness, the merging of individual with the cosmic divine and the completion of the cosmic cycle.
Together, the three sounds, A, U, and M, merge to form Om, representing the entire spectrum of existence. Chanting or meditating on Om is believed to help connect with the divine, harmonize the mind and body, and awaken spiritual consciousness.
Om is a powerful mantra, a tool for meditation, and a symbol of unity with the divine and the nature of interconnection between all things. It is also widely used in spiritual practices, rituals, and chants in various cultures and traditions across the world.
Why is it important?
Om is an important sound and symbol to Indians because it has deep spiritual and philosophical significance in their culture and traditions.
- Spiritual significance: Om is considered a sacred and divine sound that represents the ultimate reality, or the divine essence. It is seen as a pathway to connect with the divine and attain spiritual enlightenment. Chanting or meditating on Om is believed to help facilitate spiritual growth, self-realization, and a deeper understanding of the nature of existence.
- Cultural heritage: Om is deeply rooted in Indian culture and has been revered for thousands of years. It is found in ancient scriptures like the Vedas and Upanishads, which form the basis of Indian philosophy and spirituality. As a result, Om has become a symbol of Indian identity, cultural heritage, and religious practices.
- Symbol of unity: Om represents the underlying unity of all things. It signifies the interconnected-ness of individuals, the universe, and the divine. Chanting Om is a way to acknowledge and honor this unity, promoting a sense of oneness and harmony among people.
- Meditative practice: The rhythmic chanting of Om has a calming and centering effect on the mind. It helps in achieving a state of deep relaxation, focus, and inner peace. Chanting Om during meditation is believed to enhance concentration, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being.
- Philosophical insights: Om is associated with profound philosophical concepts in Indian philosophy, such as the nature of reality, the eternal sound, and the unmanifested potential. It encapsulates the ideas of existence, consciousness, and bliss. Exploring the meaning and symbolism of Om provides philosophical insights and contemplative pathways for individuals on their spiritual journey.
Om is important to Indians because it represents their spiritual heritage, cultural identity, and provides a profound framework for understanding the nature of reality and the pursuit of spiritual growth and self-realization.
Where or when is it used?
Om is a sacred sound that is used in many spiritual practices, rituals, and prayers in different cultures and traditions. It is believed to have many benefits, including:
- Helping people to connect with their spiritual nature
- Cultivating inner awareness
- Deepening spiritual practices
- Serving as a focal point for devotion, mindfulness, and spiritual transformation
Here are some ways in which Om is used:
- Chanting and meditation: Om is often chanted or repeated silently as part of meditation and mantra repetition. It is believed to help people to deepen their concentration, experience inner peace, and connect with the divine.
- Prayers and invocations: Om is often used as a sacred invocation or opening mantra in prayers and rituals. It sets the spiritual tone and creates a sacred atmosphere for connecting with the divine, seeking blessings, and expressing devotion.
- Yoga and breath-work: Om is frequently incorporated as part of pranayama (breath control) exercises in yoga practices. It is chanted during specific breathing techniques, such as “Om Chanting” or “Ujjayi Breathing,” to enhance focus, energize the body, and deepen the breath-awareness connection.
- Religious ceremonies: Om holds a central place in religious ceremonies, such as pujas (ritual worship), yajnas (fire rituals), and sacred initiations. It is chanted by priests, devotees, or participants to invoke divine blessings, offer gratitude, and create a sacred atmosphere.
- Symbolic representation: The symbol of Om (ॐ) is often used as a visual representation in religious art, mandalas, and sacred objects. It serves as a reminder of the divine presence, cosmic unity, and the essence of spiritual teachings.
Whether chanted aloud or silently repeated, Om is considered a powerful and sacred sound that can help people to connect with their spiritual nature, cultivate inner awareness, and deepen their spiritual practices.
What are the benefits of chanting Om?
Chanting Om can have many benefits, including:
- Relaxation and stress reduction: Chanting Om can help you relax and reduce stress. The repetitive sound can help you focus on the present moment and let go of worries.
- Improved concentration and focus: Chanting Om can help you improve your concentration and focus. The repetitive sound can help you block out distractions and stay on task.
- Increased harmony and balance: Chanting Om can help you feel more balanced and at peace. The sound vibrations can help to promote overall well-being.
- Deeper mind-body connection: Chanting Om can help you connect with your body and mind on a deeper level. The sound vibrations can help you become more aware of your breath, sensations, and emotions.
- Spiritual awakening: Chanting Om can be a powerful tool for spiritual awakening. The sound vibrations can help you connect with your inner wisdom and higher self.
It is important to note that the benefits of chanting Om may vary from person to person. Some people may experience all of the benefits listed above, while others may only experience some of them. It is also important to note that chanting Om is a personal practice. There is no right or wrong way to do it. Experiment with different techniques and find what works best for you.
How do you say Om or Aum?
To say “Om” or “Aum”, follow these steps:
- Find a comfortable and quiet space where you can focus without distractions.
- Sit in a comfortable position, with your spine straight and relaxed.
- Take a few deep breaths to center yourself and calm your mind.
- Begin by exhaling completely and emptying your lungs.
- As you inhale, open your mouth slightly and let the sound “Aaaah” naturally flow out. Feel the vibration starting from the lower belly or abdomen, rising up through your chest.
- Transition smoothly to the sound “Ooooh” as you continue to exhale. The sound should resonate in your chest, throat and mouth.
- Finally, close your lips and make the humming sound “Mmmm” as you fully exhale. Feel the vibration buzzing in your head and throat.
- Allow the sound to naturally taper off and merge into silence.
- Repeat the process, focusing on the smooth transition between the three sounds, “Aaaah,” “Ooooh,” and “Mmmm.”
- As you chant, try to feel the resonance and vibration of the sound throughout your body.
Remember, the key is to chant “Om” with a sense of deep focus, intention, and awareness. The sound should be produced naturally and comfortably, without straining or forcing it. Practice gradually and allow yourself to find a rhythm and pace that feels right for you.
It’s important to approach chanting “Om” with reverence and sincerity, as it is a sacred sound with spiritual significance. Allow yourself to fully immerse in the experience and let the vibrations of “Om” resonate within you.
Are there any studies about the benefits?
While there is limited scientific research specifically focused on the benefits of chanting “Om” or “Aum,” there are a few studies that have explored the effects of chanting and meditation practices in general.
Here are a couple of studies that touch upon the potential benefits:
- “Effects of Om Chanting on Brain Function, Autonomic Nervous System, and Hormones” (by Venkatesh et al., 2017): This study examined the effects of chanting “Om” on brain function, autonomic nervous system activity, and hormone levels. The researchers found that Om chanting led to increased parasympathetic nervous system activity, reduced sympathetic nervous system activity, and improved attention and concentration. It suggested that Om chanting may have a positive impact on mental and physical well-being.
- “The Effects of Om Mantra Meditation on Brain Hemispheric Coherence and Autonomic Nervous System” (by Joshi et al., 2013): This study investigated the effects of Om mantra meditation on brain hemispheric coherence and autonomic nervous system functioning. The results showed increased hemispheric coherence, indicating better communication between the brain hemispheres, and improved autonomic nervous system balance. These findings suggest potential benefits of Om mantra meditation in promoting brain integration and balance.
- A study published in the journal “Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback” in 2007 found that chanting Om can help to reduce stress. The study participants who chanted Om for 15 minutes showed a significant decrease in stress hormones, such as cortisol, compared to the control group.
- A study published in the journal “Neuroscience Letters” in 2008 found that chanting Om can help to improve focus. The study participants who chanted Om for 15 minutes showed an increase in alpha waves in the brain, which are associated with relaxation and concentration.
- “Immediate Effects of OM Chanting on Heart Rate Variability Measures Compared Between Experienced and Inexperienced Yoga Practitioners”, published in the journal “Scientific Reports” in 2019. This study found that chanting Om can help to improve heart rate variability, which is a measure of the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.
- “Neurohemodynamic correlates of ‘OM’ chanting: A pilot functional magnetic resonance imaging study”, published in the journal “Frontiers in Human Neuroscience” in 2013. This study found that chanting Om can activate certain areas of the brain, including the limbic system, which is involved in emotion and memory.
- “Meditation on OM: Relevance from ancient texts and contemporary science”, published in the journal “Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences” in 2008. This study discusses the benefits of chanting Om from a scientific and spiritual perspective.
While these studies provide some insight into the effects of chanting and meditation practices, it’s important to note that the research in this area is still developing, and more studies are needed to establish conclusive evidence regarding the specific benefits of chanting “Om” or “Aum.”
It’s also worth mentioning that the benefits of chanting “Om” are often subjective and can vary from person to person. Many individuals report personal experiences of improved focus, relaxation, and spiritual connection through the practice of chanting “Om.” Ultimately, the best way to explore the effects of chanting is through personal practice and self-observation.
Images:
Top: Photo by Shubham Dhage on Unsplash
Middle: Photo by ArrN Capture on Unsplash
Gunpowder!
What’s gunpowder?
It’s really nothing to do with real gunpowder – but some spice mixes from southern India are referred to gunpowder by folks from other regions (in jest of course) – because of the spicy nature of these spicy mixes.
Let us look at some of these – what they are and how and why they are used. We will also include some simple recipes too.
Karappodi or Idli podi or Chutney powder is a common term used for this based on which state in Southern India you are in. Usually (not always) these are spice mixes used as a common condiment with breakfast – you add this mix to your plate and then add hot ghee (clarified butter) and mix this into a nice slurry and dip your breakfast – Idli or dosa or uthappam – and enjoy the spicy flavor it adds. Sometimes these mixes are added to hot rice and ghee of course (a couple of spoonfuls of spice mix and ghee) and it’s a spicy savory taste of heaven.
What are Idli, Dosa and Uthappam?
These are very common breakfast items served all over southern India. These are not the only dishes but you could say the most popular. All three are made with a lightly fermented batter of rice and urad dal or black gram lentils.
Idli – is made when the above batter is steamed
Dosa – the batter is diluted a bit and then spread thin on a hot pan to create a crispy savory crepe.
Uthappam – The batter is poured thick like a savory pancake.
Types of gunpowder or spice mixes
While some of these are very similar there are slight variations and the names will be different based on the region.
Here are a few:
Karappodi
This is a spicy dry chutney powder made with roasted lentils, dried red chilies, garlic, and other spices. It is typically served with idlis (steamed rice cakes) or dosas (crepes made from fermented rice and lentil batter). (Similar to Chutney powder just a different name)
Paruppu podi
This is a lentil-based powder that is typically served with rice and ghee. It is made with roasted lentils, dried red chilies, cumin seeds, and peppercorns. Served with idlis (steamed rice cakes) or dosas (crepes made from fermented rice and lentil batter). It is most commonly used in Tamil Nadu.
Idli podi
This is a dry chutney powder made with roasted lentils, dried red chilies, sesame seeds, and other spices. It is typically served with idlis (steamed rice cakes) or dosas (crepes made from fermented rice and lentil batter). It is most commonly used in Tamil Nadu.
Milagai podi
This is a dry chutney powder made with roasted lentils, dried red chilies, and other spices. It is typically served with idlis (steamed rice cakes) or dosas (crepes made from fermented rice and lentil batter). It is most commonly used in Tamil Nadu.
Kothamalli podi
This is a spice blend made with fresh coriander leaves, dried red chilies, and other spices. It is typically used as a seasoning for various South Indian dishes, including rice and lentil dishes. It is most commonly used in Tamil Nadu.
Molaga podi
This is a dry chutney powder made with roasted lentils, dried red chilies, and other spices. It is typically served with idlis (steamed rice cakes) or dosas (crepes made from fermented rice and lentil batter). It is most commonly used in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.
Ellu podi
This is a spice blend made with sesame seeds, dried red chilies, and other spices. It is typically used as a seasoning for various South Indian dishes, including rice and lentil dishes. It is most commonly used in Tamil Nadu.
You may notice that most of the ingredients are quite similar with a couple of different items which make the difference and some of the names are different but it’s almost the same ingredients.
This is because the names vary by region and some ingredients are typical to those regions and this is how there is an immense variation and diversity in the cuisines of India.
Nothing is the same or boring 🙂 , it’s always a fabulous culinary experience!
You must experience it!
Here are some different variations of dry spice mixes which are typically mixed with Ghee or Sesame seed oil (yes sesame seeds – this is believed to be good for you)
Recipes for different ‘gunpowder’ mixes
Koora Karam (Spice Mix for curries)
(Koora – telugu word for any gravy or dry dish; Karam – Spice)
Ingredients:
1/2 cup dried red chilies
1/2 cup coriander seeds
1/4 cup cumin seeds
1 tsp mustard seeds
1 tsp fenugreek seeds
1 tsp black peppercorns
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp asafoetida or Hing powderInstructions:
Dry roast all the spices separately until they turn aromatic.
Allow them to cool and then grind them into a fine powder.
Store in an airtight container.
Idli Podi (spice mix for idli)
Idli – breakfast item – podi – powder
Ingredients:
1 cup urad dal
1/2 cup chana dal
1/2 cup dried red chilies
1/2 cup sesame seeds
1/2 cup curry leaves
1/2 cup grated coconut (optional)
1 tsp asafoetida or Hing powder
Salt to tasteInstructions:
Dry roast the dals separately until they turn golden brown.
Dry roast the red chilies and curry leaves until they turn crisp.
Dry roast the sesame seeds until they turn golden brown.
Allow them all to cool and then grind them into a coarse powder.
Add the asafoetida or Hing powder and salt and mix well.
Store in an airtight container.Chutney Podi (mixed lentil Spice Mix)
Ingredients:
1/2 cup urad dal
1/2 cup chana dal
1/2 cup dried red chilies
1/2 cup grated coconut
1 tsp asafoetida or Hing powder
Salt to tasteInstructions:
Dry roast the dals separately until they turn golden brown.
Dry roast the red chilies until they turn crisp.
Dry roast the grated coconut until it turns light brown.
Allow them all to cool and then grind them into a coarse powder.
Add the asafoetida or Hing powder and salt and mix well.
Store in an airtight container.Sonti Karam (Dried Ginger Spice Mix)
Sonti – dried ginger; Podi – powder; Karam – spicy powder
Ingredients:
1/2 cup dried red chilies
1/2 cup coriander seeds
1/2 cup cumin seeds
1/4 cup black peppercorns
1/4 cup dry ginger powder
1 tsp asafoetida or Hing powder
Salt to tasteInstructions:
Dry roast all the spices separately until they turn aromatic.
Allow them to cool and then grind them into a fine powder.
Add the dry ginger powder, asafoetida or Hing powder, and salt and mix well.
Store in an airtight container.Vellulli Karam (Garlic Spice Mix)
Vellulli – Garlic; Karam – Spicy mix
Ingredients:
1 cup dried red chilies
1 cup garlic cloves
1/2 cup urad dal
1/2 cup chana dal
1 tsp asafoetida or Hing powder
Salt to tasteInstructions:
Dry roast the dals separately until they turn golden brown.
Dry roast the red chilies until they turn crisp.
Allow them to cool and then grind them into a fine powder.
Add the garlic cloves and grind into a coarse paste.
Mix the ground powder and garlic paste together.
Add the asafoetida or Hing powder and salt and mix well.
Store in an airtight container.Kandi Podi (Lentil Spice Mix)
Kandi – Yellow lentils or toor dal; Podi – powder
Ingredients:
1 cup toor dal
1/2 cup dried red chilies
1/2 cup curry leaves
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp mustard seeds
1 tsp asafoetida or Hing powder
Salt to tasteInstructions:
Dry roast the toor dal until it turns golden brown.
Dry roast the red chilies and curry leaves until they turn crisp.
Allow them all to cool and then grind them into a coarse powder.
Add the cumin seeds, mustard seeds, asafoetida or Hing powder, and salt and mix well.
Store in an airtight container.Palli Karam (Peanut Spice mix)
Palli- Peanuts; Karam – Spicy mix
Ingredients:
1 cup roasted peanuts
1/2 cup dried red chilies
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp coriander seeds
1 tsp asafoetida or Hing powder
Salt to tasteInstructions:
Dry roast the red chilies, cumin seeds, and coriander seeds until they turn aromatic.
Allow them to cool and then grind them into a fine powder.
Add the roasted peanuts and grind into a coarse powder.
Add the asafoetida or Hing powder and salt and mix well.
Store in an airtight container.Karivepaku Karam (Curry Leaf Spice Mix)
Karivepaku – Curry leaf; Karam – Spicy mix
Ingredients:
1 cup curry leaves
1/2 cup dried red chilies
1/4 cup urad dal
1/4 cup chana dal
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp asafoetida or Hing powder
Salt to tasteInstructions:
Dry roast the dals separately until they turn golden brown.
Dry roast the red chilies and curry leaves until they turn crisp.
Allow them all to cool and then grind them into a coarse powder.
Add the cumin seeds, asafoetida or Hing powder, and salt and mix well.
Store in an airtight container.Nuvvula Karam (Sesame seed spice mix)
Nuvvula – Sesame seeds; Karam – Spicy mix
Ingredients:
1/2 cup sesame seeds
1/2 cup roasted peanuts
1/2 cup dried red chilies
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp asafoetida or Hing powder
Salt to tasteInstructions:
Dry roast the sesame seeds separately until they turn light brown.
Dry roast the red chilies until they turn crisp.
Allow them all to cool and then grind them into a coarse powder.
Add the roasted peanuts, cumin seeds, asafoetida or Hing powder, and salt and mix well.
Store in an airtight container.Image at the top is from https://www.sailusfood.com/
Nalla Karam (Black spice mix)
Nalla- Black; Karam – Spicy mix
Ingredients:
1/2 cup coriander seeds
1/4 cup cumin seeds
1/4 cup black peppercorns
1/4 cup dry coconut pieces
1/4 cup sesame seeds
1/4 cup urad dal
1/4 cup chana dal
2 tsp mustard seeds
2 tsp fenugreek seeds
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp asafoetida or Hing powder
Salt to tasteInstructions:
Dry roast all the ingredients, except turmeric powder, asafoetida or Hing powder, and salt separately until they turn golden brown.
Allow them to cool and then grind them into a fine powder.
Add the turmeric powder, asafoetida or Hing powder, and salt and mix well.
Store in an airtight container.Note: This spice mix can be stored for up to 2-3 months in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
Are Italian spice mixes inspired by south Indian gunpowder?
Did you notice that some italian bread is served with some olive oil and some dry spice mixes?
In Southern India breakfast or lunch is also served with a variety of dry spicy mixtures called karappodi, sontipodi and others served with hot ghee- as seen above.
While there may be some similarities between the spice mixes used in Italian cuisine and South Indian cuisine, they may or may not be directly related. But since there is a lot of evidence of the trade between the Roman empire and Southern India for spices in ancient times there could and would have been some exchange of how the spices were used in the country of it’s origin.
Here’s some information on the different spice mixes used in Italian cuisine:
Bruschetta topping
This is a mix of diced tomatoes, garlic, fresh basil, and olive oil, which is typically served on toasted bread as an appetizer.
Bread dipping mix
This is a blend of dried herbs and spices, including oregano, basil, thyme, and garlic, which is mixed with olive oil and served with bread as a dipping sauce.
Italian seasoning blend
This is a mix of dried herbs and spices commonly used in Italian cuisine, including basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and garlic.
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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