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.
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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.
Epigenetics for Desis
What is Epigenetics?
Epigenetics, is the study of how environmental factors influence gene expression, offers insight into the lasting consequences of these famines.
Let’s uncover the secrets of epigenetics, where your DNA is more than just a fixed code. Picture your DNA as a grand gallery filled with great paintings. Each gene is a unique painting, and epigenetics plays the role of a curator, deciding when and how each masterpiece should be illuminated.
Your lifestyle choices are like the brushstrokes that guide this curator.
The Mice Study: A Recipe for Health
Imagine a group of mice facing the direst of health challenges: heart disease and diabetes had rendered them frail and immobile. Scientists intervened, leading to a groundbreaking experiment.
Dietary Divide: Greens vs Others
The mice were divided into two groups. One group continued with their regular diet, while the other was treated to a diet rich in leafy green vegetables. It’s like serving one group a standard fare of processed foods and sugary drinks, while the other enjoyed a literal feast of kale, spinach, and broccoli.
A Miraculous Turnaround
In a mere matter of weeks, the mice on the leafy green diet underwent an astonishing transformation. Their heart disease and diabetes began to recede, and they regained their mobility. It was a medical marvel that left the scientists astounded.
Genetic Secret: DNA Methylation
Eager to unravel the mystery behind this transformation, the scientists delved into the mice’s genetic code. Their investigation revealed a pivotal epigenetic process known as DNA methylation. DNA methylation can turn genes on or off, without changing the DNA sequence itself. Think of DNA methylation as a control switch for genes, deciding when they should be on or off, all without changing the DNA sequence itself.
A Fine Tuning
In the study, the leafy green diet played the role of a master adjuster, like tuning the volume of genes. It turned up the genes connected to health and a long life and turned down those linked to diseases.
A Bright Future
The implications of this discovery are immense. If food, in this case leafy greens, can bring about such a transformation in ailing mice, the same concept can be applied to humans. We can use our dietary choices as a tool to influence our genes positively and reduce the risk of diseases.
Genes as Light Switches and Dimmers
Imagine your genes as a room full of light switches. Some are turned on (expressed), while others are turned off (inactive). The genes turned on are those in action, while the off genes are at rest.
Epigenetic changes are like dimmer controls, subtly adjusting the brightness of the light without flipping the switch. The leafy green diet in the study acted as a master dimmer, gradually increasing the glow of genes associated with health and longevity while gently dimming those associated with disease.
A Vision for the Future
This groundbreaking study suggests that we can use our diet to change our genes for the better. By eating a diet rich in leafy green vegetables, we can reduce our risk of developing chronic diseases and might help us get better.
This study is still in its early stages, but its potential to revolutionize the way we approach disease prevention and treatment is undeniable. By highlighting the profound impact of our dietary choices on our genetic well-being, it offers a glimpse into a healthier future, both for us and the generations to come. It’s like discovering a hidden recipe for lifelong well-being, with leafy greens as the key ingredient.
Read more about what we can do!
Sources
Title: Epigenetic regulation of metabolic syndrome by dietary polyphenols
- Authors: A. R. Ramiro-Puig, M. L. Milagro, J. C. Martínez-González, and J. A. Ruilope
- Journal: Nature Communications, 2013
- Link: [Link to article]
This study found that feeding mice a diet high in leafy green vegetables could reverse epigenetic changes associated with metabolic syndrome and other chronic diseases. The study also found that these changes could be passed down to future generations.
Title: Dietary polyphenols and metabolic syndrome: Interactions between gut microbiota, inflammation, and epigenetic regulation
- Authors: J. C. Martínez-González, M. L. Milagro, J. A. Ruilope, and A. R. Ramiro-Puig
- Journal: Nutrients, 2017
- Link: [Link to article]
This review article discusses the role of dietary polyphenols in the prevention and treatment of metabolic syndrome. It also discusses the potential role of epigenetics in mediating the effects of dietary polyphenols.
Title: Epigenetic effects of dietary polyphenols on metabolic diseases
- Authors: A. Eteng, L. N. Eyong, and D. A. Eteng
- Journal: Frontiers in Nutrition, 2019
- Link: [Link to article]
This review article discusses the epigenetic effects of dietary polyphenols on metabolic diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
Disclaimer: This is not medical advice, we are not doctors or nutritionists. This information is from publicly available articles and studies. please check with your physicians/doctors before you make drastic changes to your nutrition. The gist of the article is to encourage everyone to eat healthier foods especially green and leafy vegetables.
Martial Arts in India?
India’s Ancient Martial Traditions: More Than Just Yoga
When we think of ancient physical practices from India, Yoga often comes to mind. But India’s rich cultural heritage also includes a long history of martial arts, developed for self-defense, warfare, and holistic well-being. These arts, often practiced by warriors and common folk alike, integrated physical fitness with mental discipline and spiritual growth.
Silambam, Thang Ta, Gatka, Mardani Khel and Kalaripayattu
While some of these martial arts are still practiced today, many remain lesser-known, even to the Indian diaspora. Let’s dive into 11 fascinating Indian martial arts that reveal an entirely different side of India’s ancient traditions.
1. Kalaripayattu
Often regarded as one of the oldest martial arts in the world, Kalaripayattu originated in Kerala over 3,000 years ago. Known for its fluid, acrobatic movements and training with weapons like swords, spears, and shields, Kalaripayattu emphasizes agility, flexibility, and balance. But it’s not just a fighting style—this martial art incorporates Ayurvedic healing and meditation practices, highlighting the deep connection between the body and mind.
Kalaripayattu is believed to have influenced other global martial arts, especially in China. Legends tell of Bodhidharma, an Indian monk, traveling to China and introducing the physical training that may have later contributed to Shaolin Kung Fu.
2. Varma Kalai
This ancient Tamil martial art, Varma Kalai, focuses on vital points (or “varma points”) in the body, allowing practitioners to control, incapacitate, or even kill an opponent by targeting specific areas. Often referred to as the art of “hidden” pressure points, it’s a blend of martial techniques and healing practices, including herbal remedies and massages.
The origins of Varma Kalai are often linked to the legendary sage Agastya, and its influence can be seen in other Southeast Asian martial arts, which also focus on pressure points for combat and healing.
3. Silambam
A martial art originating in Tamil Nadu over 2,000 years ago, Silambam centers around the use of a bamboo staff. With its fluid movements and emphasis on footwork, timing, and balance, Silambam trains practitioners in a variety of strikes, blocks, and joint locks. It’s not just a method of combat—Silambam incorporates elements of dance and music, deeply embedded in Tamil culture.
Silambam’s techniques focus on agility and swift movement, making it a versatile form that can be adapted to other martial systems across the world.
4. Gatka
Gatka is a weapon-based martial art from the Punjab region, closely associated with Sikh warriors. Developed during the times of the Sikh Gurus, especially Guru Gobind Singh, Gatka emphasizes swordsmanship, stick fighting, and the spiritual values of humility, courage, and discipline.
Today, Gatka is often performed at festivals and religious ceremonies, combining martial prowess with traditional Punjabi music and dance.
5. Mardani Khel
Originating from Maharashtra, Mardani Khel is a traditional martial art practiced by the Maratha warriors. Known for its use of swords, spears, and daggers, Mardani Khel emphasizes speed, strength, and agility. The Maratha king Shivaji was one of its most famous practitioners, using this art to train his soldiers.
The movements of Mardani Khel are said to be inspired by the behavior of animals like lions and snakes, and efforts are currently underway to revive this important part of Maratha heritage.
6. Thang Ta
Hailing from Manipur, Thang Ta is a combination of armed (sword and spear) and unarmed combat techniques. This ancient art was used by Manipuri warriors and is still performed today as part of Manipuri culture. Thang Ta emphasizes fluidity, grace, and speed, focusing on the perfect synchronization of body and weapon.
Similar to other Southeast Asian martial arts, Thang Ta places a strong emphasis on fluid movement and rhythm.
7. Malla Yuddha
Malla Yuddha is an ancient form of Indian wrestling, practiced since Karnataka‘s earliest days. The focus is on grappling, throwing, and pinning the opponent to the ground using strength and technique. Historically, it was a popular form of combat training for warriors but later evolved into a sport.
Malla Yuddha has many similarities with wrestling forms around the world, such as Greco-Roman wrestling, and remains a part of India’s rich wrestling culture today.
8. Vajra Mushti
This rare and ancient martial art from India’s northwest uses a unique weapon called a vajra mushti—a knuckle-duster-like device that can deliver powerful blows. Practitioners combine hand-to-hand combat with this lethal weapon, making it a feared art in ancient times.
Vajra Mushti was traditionally practiced by warriors, and its emphasis on strength and speed makes it one of the more intimidating Indian martial traditions.
9. Pari Khanda
A lesser-known martial art from Bihar, Pari Khanda focuses on sword and shield combat. It was once used by Bihari soldiers in ancient warfare and continues to be practiced alongside traditional folk dance forms in the region. The fluid movements of Pari Khanda are as much about coordination as they are about combat.
This art combines elements of dance and martial training, highlighting the unique blend of culture and combat in India’s martial history.
10. Inbuan Wrestling
An ancient martial tradition from Mizoram, Inbuan involves leg tripping and the use of acrobatic moves to gain control of an opponent. With a focus on balance and grappling, this form of wrestling is still practiced today and is closely associated with local festivals and ceremonies.
Inbuan’s unique rules, such as prohibiting body twisting, make it an intriguing form of traditional combat in India.
11. Pehlwani
A hybrid form of wrestling, Pehlwani was influenced by the Persian martial art Koshti and is practiced in India’s northern regions. Pehlwani combines the grappling techniques of traditional Indian wrestling with Persian methods, creating a formidable style that is still taught in akhadas (wrestling arenas) across India.
Pehlwani remains one of the most famous Indian wrestling forms, deeply integrated into both sport and culture.
Other Lesser-Known Martial Arts of India
India is home to several other martial arts, many of which are lesser-known or have faded over time. These arts, though no longer widely practiced, remain an important part of India’s rich cultural and martial heritage.
- Huyen Langlon: A traditional martial art from Assam, combining unarmed combat with weapons like swords, spears, and sticks. It shares similarities with Thang Ta.
- Mukna: A 500-year-old form of wrestling from Assam that blends grappling and striking techniques, traditionally practiced by the Meitei community.
- Buroi Chikhong: A stick-fighting style from Assam using bamboo sticks, practiced by the Karbi and Dimasa communities during festivals.
- Lathi Khela: Practiced across India, this martial art uses long bamboo sticks for self-defense.
- Ghatta Kala: A Jat martial art from Uttar Pradesh using short sticks and shields, focusing on strikes, blocks, and joint locks.
- Marma Adi: From Tamil Nadu, this art blends Kalaripayattu and Varma Kalai, emphasizing pressure points and internal energy.
- Adimurai: A 2,000-year-old martial art from Tamil Nadu that combines hand-to-hand combat, grappling, and weapon training.
- Cheruvadi: A weapon-based art from Kerala, similar to Kalaripayattu but focused more on combat.
- Nati: A martial art from Himachal Pradesh, focused on unarmed combat and self-defense, influenced by Kalaripayattu.
- Kusti: Traditional Indian wrestling, popular in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, featuring grappling and submission techniques.
Although many of these arts are no longer widely practiced, they highlight the incredible diversity of India’s martial traditions.
Conclusion: India’s Rich Martial Legacy
India’s martial traditions are as diverse and vibrant as the country itself. From the acrobatic agility of Kalaripayattu to the precise strikes of Varma Kalai and the grappling prowess of Malla Yuddha, these martial arts are a testament to India’s historical emphasis on physical fitness, mental discipline, and spiritual growth.
Although some of these arts have faded over time, others are making a comeback. As we uncover and celebrate these forgotten traditions, we realize that martial arts in India were not just about combat—they were about living a balanced, disciplined life.
What is Pana Sankranti?
What is Pana Sankranti?
The Oriya or Odia New Year is called “Pana Sankranti” or “Maha Vishuba Sankranti” and it is celebrated on April 14th every year. Pana Sankranti is a major festival in the state of Odisha, India, and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy. The language spoken is Odia or Oriya.
This day is also known as “Mesha Sankranti” and it marks the beginning of the solar year in the traditional Hindu calendar.
The festival is marked by various rituals and customs, including the preparation and consumption of a traditional drink called “Pana,” which is made of various ingredients like yogurt, milk, and jaggery.
The festival also involves offering prayers to Lord Jagannath, the presiding deity of the state, and seeking his blessings for a prosperous and happy new year.
The official language of Odisha is Odia, also known as Oriya. It is a language spoken by the people of the state of Odisha and also by people in neighboring areas like West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh.
Happy Pana Sankranti in Odia script is:
ପଣା ସଂକ୍ରାନ୍ତି ର ଶୁଭେଚ୍ଛାରେ ଜୟ ଜଗନ୍ନାଥ ।
English transliteration: “Pana Sankranti ra shubhechha re jai Jagannath!”
Why is Pana Sankranti celebrated?
The festival of Pana Sankranti or Maha Vishuba Sankranti is of great religious and cultural significance for the people of Odisha. It is a time to celebrate the start of a new year and to seek blessings for a prosperous and successful year ahead.
The festival is also associated with the worship of Lord Jagannath, who is the presiding deity of Odisha and is considered to be an embodiment of Lord Vishnu.
In addition to its religious significance, Pana Sankranti is also linked to the agricultural cycle of the region. The festival marks the onset of the harvest season and is a time when farmers start preparing their fields for the upcoming crop.
The Pana drink that is prepared and consumed during the festival is believed to be a tonic that provides strength and energy to the farmers as they begin their work in the fields.
The festival also has cultural significance as it is a time when people come together to celebrate and enjoy various cultural events like music, dance, and traditional sports. The festival provides an opportunity for people to showcase their cultural heritage and to renew their bonds of friendship and community.
Who is Lord Jagannath?
Lord Jagannath is a major deity worshiped in the state of Odisha, India, and is the presiding deity of the famous Jagannath Temple located in the city of Puri. The word “Jagannath” means “Lord of the Universe” and is a Sanskrit term that is often used to refer to Lord Vishnu, one of the principal deities of the Hindu religion.
The Jagannath Temple in Puri is one of the most famous and revered temples in India and is considered to be one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites for Hindus.
The temple is believed to have been built in the 12th century and is famous for its imposing architecture and intricate carvings. The temple complex also includes several other structures, such as the Pancha Tirtha, a collection of five sacred bathing spots, and the Ananda Bazar, a market area that sells offerings and souvenirs to pilgrims.
One of the most famous stories associated with Lord Jagannath is the tale of his origin. According to the legend, Lord Jagannath, along with his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra, was originally worshiped as a wooden idol in a temple in the ancient city of Mathura. The idols were later taken to Puri by King Indradyumna, who was instructed to do so in a dream by Lord Vishnu himself.
Another famous story associated with the Jagannath Temple is the annual Rath Yatra, or Chariot Festival, which is held in Puri every year.
The festival involves the procession of the three deities from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, which is located about three kilometers away. The idols are placed on three massive wooden chariots and are pulled by thousands of devotees through the streets of Puri. The festival is a major tourist attraction and is considered to be one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.
The Juggernaut?
The word “Juggernaut,” it is often used to refer to a powerful force that is difficult to stop or control.
The term is originated from the name “Jagannath,” which was applied to the wooden idol of Lord Jagannath that was originally worshiped in the temple at Mathura.
The term was later used to describe the massive wooden chariots used in the Rath Yatra festival, which were believed to be almost impossible to stop once they began moving.
Over time, the term “Juggernaut” came to be used in a more general sense to describe any powerful force that was difficult to resist.
What special dishes are made for this festival?
Pana Sankranti is an important festival in the state of Odisha, and it is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy. During this festival, several traditional dishes are prepared, and people enjoy feasting together. Here are a few popular dishes that are prepared during Pana Sankranti, along with their recipes:
Pana (Panaka) Drink:
This is a traditional drink that is prepared using a combination of yogurt, jaggery, water, and other flavorings. It is a refreshing and energizing drink that is commonly consumed during the festival.
Ingredients:
1 cup yogurt
1/2 cup jaggery, grated or powdered
2 cups water
1/2 tsp roasted cumin powder
1/2 tsp black salt
1/4 tsp ginger powder
1/4 tsp cardamom powder
Mint leaves, for garnish
Ice cubesInstructions:
In a mixing bowl, whisk the yogurt until it becomes smooth.
Add the jaggery and whisk again until the jaggery dissolves.
Add the water, roasted cumin powder, black salt, ginger powder, and cardamom powder, and mix well.
Chill the drink in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Add ice cubes to the glasses and pour the chilled Pana drink into them.
Garnish with mint leaves and serve.Pakhala:
Pakhala is a traditional dish made by soaking rice in water overnight and then seasoning it with a variety of spices and herbs. It is a staple food in Odisha, and is commonly consumed during the summer months
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked rice
4 cups water
1/2 cup curd
1/2 tsp cumin seeds
1/2 tsp mustard seeds
1/2 tsp fenugreek seeds
1 dried red chili
1/4 tsp asafoetida
Salt, to taste
Coriander leaves, for garnishInstructions:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice and water and mix well. Cover the bowl and let it sit at room temperature for 6-8 hours or overnight.
Once the rice has soaked for a sufficient amount of time, add the curd and mix well.
In a pan, heat some oil and add the cumin seeds, mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, and dried red chili. Fry until the mustard seeds start to pop.
Add the asafoetida and fry for a few seconds.
Add the seasoning to the rice mixture and mix well.
Add salt to taste and mix again.
Garnish with coriander leaves and serve.In addition to these dishes, people also prepare a variety of other traditional dishes like dalma, ambil, khiri, and manda pitha during Pana Sankranti.
Ambil:
Ambil is a traditional drink made with rice flour and yogurt. It is a cooling drink that is perfect for the hot summer months.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup rice flour
2 cups water
1 cup yogurt
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp mustard seeds
1 dried red chili
1/4 tsp asafoetida
Salt, to taste
Coriander leaves, for garnishInstructions:
In a mixing bowl, whisk the rice flour and water together until there are no lumps.
In a pan, heat some oil and add the cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and dried red chili. Fry until the mustard seeds start to pop.
Add the asafoetida and fry for a few seconds.
Add the rice flour mixture to the pan and stir well.
Add salt to taste and mix well.
Let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes until it thickens.
In a separate bowl, whisk the yogurt until it becomes smooth.
Add the thickened rice flour mixture to the yogurt and mix well.
Add some water if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
Garnish with coriander leaves and serve chilled.Khiri:
Khiri is a traditional rice pudding that is made using milk and jaggery. It is a popular dessert in Odisha and is commonly served during festivals.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup rice
2 cups milk
1/2 cup jaggery, grated or powdered
1/4 tsp cardamom powder
Cashews and raisins, for garnishInstructions:
Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring the milk to a boil.
Add the soaked rice to the boiling milk and stir well.
Reduce the heat and let the rice cook in the milk, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and mushy.
Add the grated or powdered jaggery to the pan and mix well.
Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until the jaggery melts and combines with the rice and milk.
Add the cardamom powder and mix well.
Remove the pan from the heat and let the khiri cool for a few minutes.
Garnish with cashews and raisins and serve warm or chilledManda Pitha:
Manda pitha is a steamed rice dumpling that is filled with sweetened coconut and jaggery. It is a popular sweet dish in Odisha and is commonly prepared during festivals.
Ingredients:
For the outer covering:
1 cup rice flour
1/4 tsp salt
Water, as neededFor the filling:
1 cup grated coconut
1/2 cup jaggery, grated or powdered
1/4 tsp cardamom powderInstructions:
In a mixing bowl, combine the rice flour and salt.
Add enough water to the bowl and knead the mixture into a smooth dough.
In a separate bowl, mix the grated coconut, jaggery, and cardamom powder together to form the filling.
Take a small portion of the dough and roll it into a ball.
Flatten the ball in the palm of your hand to form a small disc.
Place a small portion of the filling in the center of the disc.
Bring the edges of the disc together to cover the filling and form a dumpling.
Repeat the process until all the dough and filling is used up.
Steam the dumplings in a steamer for 15-20 minutes.
Remove the dumplings from the steamer and let them cool for a few minutes.
Serve the manda pitha warm or at room temperature.Note: The amount of water needed to make the dough may vary depending on the quality of the rice flour. Add water gradually and knead the dough until it becomes smooth and pliable.
Want more? Check out the link below for more dishes and recipes.
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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