By Desis, for Desis and Everyone Else!!
What’s a Desi?
The term “desi” is a term that is commonly used by people from the Indian subcontinent to refer to themselves or other people (origin or ancestry) from the region.
The word “Desi” is derived from the Sanskrit word “desh,” which means “country” or “region” or “homeland”. (‘Sanskrit’ word ‘Desh’? What is Sanskrit?)
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Desi people can come from countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Maldives. The term can also be used to describe aspects of Indian origin culture, including food, clothing, music, and art.
Raksha Bandhan
Summary
Raksha Bandhan, also referred to as Rakhi Purnima, is a traditional Indian festival observed with great enthusiasm throughout India and beyond. At its core, Raksha Bandhan celebrates the unique relationship shared between brothers and sisters. The festival revolves around the sacred thread, or “rakhi,” which sisters lovingly tie around their brothers’ wrists, symbolizing their unbreakable bond.
What is Raksha Bandhan?
Raksha Bandhan is a traditional Hindu festival celebrated to honor the relationship between brothers and sisters. The term “Raksha Bandhan” (Raksha – to Protect, Bandhan – something that’s tied) translates to “bond of protection.” On this day, sisters tie a sacred thread known as a “rakhi” around their brothers’ wrists, primarily to seek divine protection from all harm – for their brothers; and also as a symbol of their love and affection. In return, brothers offer gifts and pledge to safeguard their sisters throughout their lives.
When is Raksha Bandhan Celebrated?
Raksha Bandhan is usually observed on the full moon day (Rakhi Purnima) of the Hindu month of Shravana, which typically falls in August. The festival holds special significance in Indian culture and is celebrated with enthusiasm across the country.
Purnima is the Sanskrit word for full moon. It is the fifteenth day of the lunar cycle, as the moon reaches the final stage of the Shukla Paksha (waxing period). The full moon is considered the third of the four primary phases of the moon; the other three phases are amavasya (new moon – first day of the lunar cycle, as the moon is completely dark), krishna paksha pratipada (first quarter moon – has it’s right half illuminated), and krishna paksha chaturdashi (third quarter moon – has it’s left half illuminated).
Explanation of the words used
How is Raksha Bandhan Celebrated?
- Rituals: The ceremony starts with the sister applying a ’tilak’ (a mark) on her brother’s forehead, followed by tying the rakhi around his wrist. Prayers and wishes for each other’s well-being are exchanged during this process.
- Gift Exchange: Brothers offer gifts, sweets, or even money to their sisters as a token of their love and appreciation. It’s a heartwarming exchange that solidifies their bond.
- Emotional Connection: Raksha Bandhan transcends the physical distance between siblings. Even if they’re geographically separated, sisters often send rakhis by mail or through digital platforms, maintaining the tradition.
Stories and Variations Across India
India’s diversity is mirrored in the various regional stories and practices associated with Raksha Bandhan:
Historical Tales: One notable story is the myth of Draupadi and Lord Krishna. Draupadi tied a torn piece of her saree on Krishna’s wrist to staunch his bleeding wound. Touched by her gesture, Krishna vowed to protect her forever.
Rakhi with a Twist: In India, the tradition of tying rakhi extends beyond blood relations. Women tie rakhis to men not related to them, as a sign of respect and protection – symbolically making them their brothers, promoting a sense of community and unity.
Raksha Bandhan transcends cultural and geographical boundaries, reflecting the essence of India’s rich tapestry of traditions. It’s a celebration of love, protection, and the unbreakable bond between siblings. Through its various stories and practices, Raksha Bandhan paints a vivid picture of the cultural nuances that define India’s heritage.
In the state of Odisha, Raksha Bandhan coincides with the Gamha Purnima festival.
Gamha Purnima
The Celebration of Nature’s Bounty
Gamha Purnima, also known as Gomma Purnima or Gomata Purnima, is a significant festival celebrated in the Indian state of Odisha.
The festival is dedicated to Lord Balarama, the elder brother of Lord Krishna.
On the day of Gamha Purnima, people worship Lord Balarama and offer prayers for his blessings. They also worship cows and bullocks, which are considered sacred animals in India.
Gamha Purnima falls on the full moon day of the Indian traditional calendar month of Shravana, which usually corresponds to the months of July or August.
The Rituals and Significance
Reverence of Cows
Central to the celebration is the veneration of cows, often referred to as “Gomata” or “Go,” which means “cow” in Sanskrit. Cows are considered sacred in Hinduism and are associated with divine qualities. On Gamha Purnima, people offer prayers, adorn the cows with flowers and vermilion, and feed them as a mark of respect, reverence and gratitude.
Ritualistic Bathing
One of the significant rituals of Gamha Purnima involves giving cows a ceremonial bath. Cows are bathed with clean water, often mixed with turmeric and other natural ingredients, as a way to purify and refresh them.
Charitable Acts
As a way of giving back and seeking blessings, people often donate food, fruits, and other essentials to the cows. This act of charity is considered highly auspicious during Gamha Purnima.
Tied Threads
In some regions of Odisha, people tie threads around the horns of cows, similar to the way rakhis are tied around wrists during Raksha Bandhan. This gesture symbolizes protection, care, and the bond between humans and animals.
Prayers for Good Harvest
Gamha Purnima also marks the beginning of the monsoon season, which is vital for agricultural activities. People offer prayers for a good harvest and seek blessings for a fruitful rainy season.
Celebration of Nature
Alongside the cow-centric rituals, Gamha Purnima is a celebration of nature’s bounty. People often spend time outdoors, enjoying the beauty of the environment, and participating in various cultural and traditional activities.
Jhulan Yatra
In some places, Gamha Purnima also coincides with Jhulan Yatra, a swing festival dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha. This festival involves setting up swings adorned with flowers and offering prayers to the divine couple.
The Message of Gamha Purnima
Gamha Purnima carries a profound message of respect for all living beings and a deep connection with nature. By celebrating and honoring cows, which are considered sacred and embodiments of nurturing energy, the festival promotes harmony between humans, animals, and the environment.
Alexander and Raksha Bandhan
The legend is said to have originated in the 3rd century BC, when Alexander, the Macedonian prince invaded India. King Puru (or Porus as the Greeks knew him) was the ruler of the Paurava kingdom, and he fought bravely against Alexander’s forces. However, he was eventually defeated, and Alexander took him prisoner.
Roxana, the wife of Alexander the Great, was said to be impressed by King Puru’s courage and nobility, and she decided to tie a rakhi on his wrist. This was a gesture of love and protection, and it was believed that it would bind the two of them together as siblings.
King Puru was touched by Roxana’s gesture, and he agreed to her request not to harm Alexander. The two men became friends.
The legend of Porus and Roxana is a reminder of the power of love and compassion. It shows how even enemies can be brought together by the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood.
It is important to note that there is no historical evidence to support the legend of Porus and Roxana. However, the legend is still popular in India, and it is often told as a way to celebrate the festival of Raksha Bandhan.
Here is an account of Alexander’s abrupt end of conquering the world after this encounter above.
The Battle of the Hydaspes: Alexander and King Porus
In 326 BCE, Alexander the Great, the Macedonian king and conqueror, embarked on his campaign to conquer the Indian subcontinent. His path led him to the banks of the Hydaspes River (modern-day Jhelum River in Pakistan), where he faced King Porus, a powerful ruler of the Paurava Kingdom.
Alexander’s Struggle and Departure
Some historical accounts suggest that the Battle of the Hydaspes was not a clear victory for Alexander the Great. Instead, they propose that the battle was fiercely contested, and King Porus’s forces posed a significant challenge to the Macedonian army. King Porus’s strategic acumen and the might of his war elephants created formidable obstacles for Alexander’s forces.
While Alexander’s army managed to make some gains, the conflict resulted in heavy casualties and exhausted resources. The grueling nature of the battle, combined with the realization of the vastness of the Indian subcontinent and the challenges it presented, especially after the tough battle with a relatively small unknown kingdom’s forces, led Alexander and his troops to reconsider their campaign.
Historical Significance
The Battle of the Hydaspes marked a significant juncture in Alexander’s Indian campaign. While he continued to push further eastward, his soldiers began to grow weary, and he eventually decided to turn back. The encounter with Porus had given Alexander an insight into the strength and resilience of the Indian kingdoms, which influenced his decision to eventually halt his conquests and return to his homeland.
Hasty Departure
So rather than proceeding deeper into India, Alexander and his forces decided to halt their campaign and make a relatively hasty departure towards the sea. The difficulty in managing a sprawling empire, the weariness of his troops, and the logistical challenges of maintaining supply lines in unfamiliar terrain all played a role in this decision.
Local Lore and Legends
One intriguing point is the absence of local mentions of Alexander’s conquest in some historical narratives. While Alexander’s campaign is well-documented in Greek sources, references to him in local Indian texts are notably scarce. This has led some historians to question the extent of his impact on Indian history and the authenticity of certain accounts.
Historical Interpretations
While the traditional narrative of Alexander’s conquest exists, these accounts may not paint an accurate picture about history.
Rakhi Purnima and Sacred Threads
“Upanayana” ceremony in Hinduism, also known as the sacred thread ceremony. This ceremony marks a significant transition in a young boy’s life, symbolizing his initiation into the study of the Vedas and his progression into adulthood.
What is Upanayana
The Upanayana ceremony is a sacred rite of passage that dates back to ancient times in Hindu culture. It is typically performed for boys but in ancient times the sacred thread was for both boys and girls – as it marks their readiness for formal education and spiritual studies.
The Sacred Thread (Yajnopavita)
One of the central aspects of the Upanayana ceremony is the wearing of the sacred thread, known as the “yajnopavita.” This thread is made of cotton, handmade 3 strings tied in a loop. The three stands of thread represents Rig, Yajur and Sam Veda. The knot in the sacred thread is called Brahma-Granthi. In Sanskrit Granthi is a knot. There are three knots, one each for the Gods Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. The thread is worn over the left shoulder and diagonally across the torso.
Significance and Symbolism
The Upanayana ceremony and the sacred thread hold deep symbolic meanings:
Initiation into Learning
The Upanayana marks a boy’s initiation into the study of the Vedas and other sacred texts. It is a recognition of his intellectual and spiritual readiness to begin his education journey.
Female scholars like Gargi and Lopmudra are known to have undergone Upanayan Sanskar. Maitreyi, Visvavara, Apala, Indrani, Urvashi, Ghosha, and Sachi are also well known scholars in Indian history.
Source
Transition to Adulthood
The ceremony symbolizes the transition from childhood to adulthood, signifying the young boy’s entry into the responsibilities of life, including education, family, and society.
Connection with Tradition
The sacred thread represents a connection with ancient traditions and knowledge. Wearing it serves as a reminder of one’s duty to preserve and propagate the knowledge of the Vedas.
Spiritual Symbolism
The three strands of the thread symbolize the qualities of sattva (purity), rajas (passion), and tamas (ignorance). Wearing the thread reminds the wearer of the pursuit of purity and self-improvement.
The ceremony marks the second birth of the child in the world of knowledge and the children are called ‘dwij’ meaning twice born.
Source
Changing the Sacred Thread on Rakhi Purnima
The tradition of changing the sacred thread on Rakhi Purnima is a regional practice observed by some communities.
Rakhi Purnima, a special celestial occasion is also the day for this renewal. The ceremony involves removing the old thread and replacing it with a new one, symbolizing the continuation of learning, growth, and spiritual progress. It’s a way of reconnecting with one’s identity, traditions, and the responsibilities that come with adulthood.
Top image Source
What is Vishu?
What is Vishu?
Vishu is an Indian new year festival that is primarily celebrated in the southern Indian state of Kerala, as well as in some other parts of the country.
It usually falls on or around April 14th each year and marks the beginning of the Malayalam New Year. The festival is also known as Malayalam New Year or Kerala New Year.
Vishu is a festival that is rich in cultural and religious significance. One of the most important rituals of Vishu is the Vishukkani, which means “the first thing seen on Vishu morning”.
The Vishukkani is a special arrangement of auspicious items such as rice, betel leaves, flowers, fruits, and coins, all placed in a special vessel called Uruli. The Uruli is placed in front of a deity or a photograph of Lord Krishna, and is the first thing that people see upon waking up on Vishu morning. It is believed that seeing the Vishukkani brings good luck and prosperity for the year ahead.
Another important tradition of Vishu is the giving of Vishukkaineetam, which is a token amount of money given to family members, friends, and employees as a symbol of goodwill and prosperity.
Here are some popular dishes that are prepared for Vishu:
- Vishu Kanji: This is a rice porridge made with coconut milk, spices, and vegetables like pumpkin or beans. It is a traditional dish that is usually served for breakfast on Vishu morning.
- Thoran: This is a dry vegetable dish made with grated coconut, green chilies, and spices. It is usually made with vegetables like beans, cabbage, or carrot.
- Vishu Sadya: This is a traditional vegetarian feast that is served on Vishu day. It typically includes a variety of dishes like sambar, rasam, avial, thoran, and payasam.
- Mango Pachadi: This is a sweet and sour mango chutney made with ripe mangoes, jaggery, and tamarind. It is often served as a side dish for the Vishu Sadya.
- Ada Pradhaman: This is a sweet rice pudding made with rice flakes, coconut milk, jaggery, and cardamom. It is a popular dessert served during the Vishu Sadya.
- Paal Payasam: This is a sweet milk pudding made with rice, milk, sugar, and cardamom. It is a popular dessert in Kerala and is often served during festivals.
Vishu marks the beginning of a new agricultural year and is considered to be an auspicious day for farmers to start cultivating their crops. It is also believed to be the day when Lord Vishnu incarnated as Lord Krishna, and therefore, it has great significance in the Hindu religion.
Navaratri
India, the land known for her rich cultural tapestry, and her people celebrate a multitude of festivals to celebrate life, spirituality, and universal peace. Among these, Navaratri stands out as a vibrant and spiritually significant nine-night festival. Navaratri, which translates to “nine nights” in Sanskrit, is a time for devout worship, energetic dance, and culinary feasts. Let’s explore Navaratri in India.
NavaRatri – A Nine Day festival
Each day of this festival has a specific purpose and is dedicated to a different form of Mother Goddess Durga in all of her splendor.
Day 1: Pratipada – Goddess Shailaputri
The first day of Navaratri, is in the honor of Goddess Shailaputri, the daughter of the mountains. She symbolizes purity and the power of nature. According to the stories, she is the reincarnation of Goddess Sati, the first consort of Lord Shiva.
Day 2: Dwitiya – Goddess Brahmacharini
Goddess Brahmacharini, worshipped on the second day, is an epitome of penance and devotion. She represents the pursuit of truth and knowledge. Her name signifies one who practices devout celibacy.
Day 3: Tritiya – Goddess Chandraghanta
On the third day, we venerate Goddess Chandraghanta, a symbol of bravery and grace. Her name derives from her half-moon-shaped bell (ghanta) and her fierce demeanor while fighting evil forces.
Day 4: Chaturthi – Goddess Kushmanda
Goddess Kushmanda, celebrated on the fourth day, is the creator of the universe. She is believed to have created the world by a mere smile. Her name signifies her power to provide warmth and energy.
Day 5: Panchami – Goddess Skandamata
Goddess Skandamata, revered on the fifth day, is the mother of Lord Kartikeya (Skanda), the god of war. She symbolizes motherly love, protection, and divine maternal instincts.
Day 6: Shashti – Goddess Katyayani
The sixth day honors Goddess Katyayani, a fierce warrior who emerged from the anger of the gods. She embodies strength, courage, and fearlessness.
Day 7: Saptami – Goddess Kalaratri
Goddess Kalaratri, worshipped on the seventh day, is the destroyer of darkness and ignorance. She is the fierce form of Goddess Parvati, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness.
Day 8: Ashtami – Goddess Mahagauri
Goddess Mahagauri, on the eighth day, represents purity and serenity. She is depicted in a white attire, symbolizing her divinely peaceful nature.
Day 9: Navami – Goddess Siddhidatri
On the final day, we revere Goddess Siddhidatri, the bestower of supernatural powers. She signifies the fulfillment of desires and the ultimate achievement of spiritual enlightenment.
Festival traditions across India
Navaratri is also associated with Dussehra or Dasara in many parts of India, particularly in the southern regions. These festivals are related and mark the victory of good over evil, but they have distinct names and significance.
Navaratri
Navaratri, which means “nine nights” in Sanskrit, is a festival celebrated over nine nights and ten days. It honors the divine feminine energy, especially Goddess Durga, who is worshipped in various forms during this period. The festival is dedicated to the triumph of good over evil. Each day of Navaratri is associated with a specific form of the goddess and has its own significance.
Durga Puja
Embed from Getty ImagesIn West Bengal, Navaratri culminates in the grand Durga Puja festival. Elaborate idols of Goddess Durga are crafted and worshipped with great pomp and splendor. The festival is marked by processions, music, and cultural performances.
Dussehra or Dasara
Dussehra, also known as Dasara in some regions, is the culmination of Navaratri and typically falls on the tenth day. It is a major festival celebrated with great fervor. The word “Dussehra” is derived from Sanskrit and means “remover of bad fate” (dus – bad; sehra – fate).
Vijayadashami
Vijayadashami is another name for Dussehra, and it has profound significance. “Vijaya” means victory, and “dashami” refers to the tenth day of the lunar calendar. On this day, it is believed that Lord Rama, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, defeated the demon king Ravana, who had abducted Rama’s wife, Sita. It marks the victory of righteousness (dharma) over evil (adharma).
The story of Vijayadashami revolves around Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after his 14-year exile and his victory over Ravana. The people of Ayodhya celebrated his return by lighting lamps, which is why Diwali, the festival of lights, is also associated with this occasion.
Mahishasura Mardini
Mahishasura Mardini is a significant aspect of Goddess Durga. The name “Mahishasura Mardini” means “the slayer of the buffalo demon.” According to Hindu mythology, the demon king Mahishasura was causing havoc in the universe. Unable to defeat him, the gods invoked the divine feminine energy, and Goddess Durga emerged to confront and defeat Mahishasura in a fierce battle.
This story symbolizes the triumph of good (Goddess Durga) over evil (Mahishasura). During Navaratri, especially in South India, the goddess is worshipped as Mahishasura Mardini, signifying her role as the vanquisher of evil forces.
Ayudha Puja
One of the prominent traditions during Dussehra is the Ayudha Puja. Also known as Astra Puja or Shastra Puja, is a significant ritual in South India that involves the worship of tools, instruments, and vehicles.
While “Ayudha” does indeed mean “weapon” in Sanskrit, this puja is not limited to just weapons; it encompasses a wide range of objects and tools that are essential in people’s daily lives.
Ayudha Puja is a gesture of respect towards the tools and equipment that play a vital role in our daily lives. It emphasizes the idea of using our skills and tools responsibly and with gratitude.
Saraswati Puja
Embed from Getty ImagesIn some regions, Dussehra marks the end of the Navaratri celebrations with Saraswati Puja. Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge and learning, is revered on this day.
Saraswati Puja during Navaratri usually performed on the 7th day (Saptami) or 9th day (Navami) of the festival, depending on local traditions, holds special significance for students as it aligns with the belief that invoking the goddess’s blessings during this auspicious period can enhance their academic pursuits and creative endeavors.
Books, musical instruments, and educational tools are kept in front of the goddess and worshipped. Students seek her blessings for academic success.
While Navaratri is celebrated across India, its essence and rituals vary from region to region.
Navaratri Traditions and Customs
Navaratri is a time of spiritual reflection, devotion, and celebration. Here are some key traditions and customs associated with this festival:
Garba and Dandiya Raas
Garba is a traditional Gujarati dance performed in a circular formation. Dancers move gracefully to the beat of traditional folk songs, often accompanied by claps and twirls. It symbolizes the circular path of life.
Dandiya Raas involves dancers wielding colorful sticks (dandiyas) in pairs. This lively dance signifies a mock-fight between the Goddess and the demon king.
Embed from Getty ImagesGolu or Bommai Kolu or Bommala Koluvu
Golu, also known as Bommai Kolu in Tamil Nadu and Gombe Habba in Karnataka, and Koluvu in Andhra Pradesh, is a significant tradition in South India, particularly during the Navaratri festival.
Families create Golu displays. Golu consists of arranging dolls and figurines in tiers or steps. Each step narrates a story or theme, often featuring deities and mythological scenes.
The topmost step usually features idols of deities, particularly Goddess Saraswati, Lakshmi, and Durga during Navaratri. Other steps may showcase scenes from epics like the Ramayana or Mahabharata, miniature village setups, and depictions of daily life.
Ram Lila
Embed from Getty ImagesRam Lila is a dramatic reenactment of episodes from the Ramayana, particularly the story of Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana.
On the final day of Durga Puja, effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhakarna, and his son Meghanada (Indrajit) are burned in a symbolic act of the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana. This event, known as Ravana Dahan, draws large crowds and is accompanied by fireworks.
Fasting and Prayer
Many devotees observe fasts during Navaratri. Some opt for a complete fast, while others consume fruits, milk, and light meals. Fasting is seen as a way to purify the body and soul.
Prayers and bhajans (devotional songs) are an integral part of Navaratri. Devotees visit temples and offer their reverence to the goddess.
Traditional Foods and Offerings
Navaratri is a gastronomic delight with a variety of dishes prepared across India. Here are some popular dishes and treats served during this festive season:
Sundal – South Indian Chickpea Salad
A South Indian delicacy, Sundal is a protein-packed snack made from boiled chickpeas or lentils. It’s seasoned with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and grated coconut, making it a healthy and delicious offering during the festival.
Payasam (South Indian) Or Kheer (North India) – Rice Dessert
Payasam or kheer is a sweet rice dish made with milk, rice, and flavored with cardamom and saffron. It’s a favorite dessert in all of India. Traditionally made with Jaggery.
Kuttu Ki Puri – Buckwheat Puri
A North Indian fasting favorite, Kuttu Ki Puri is made from buckwheat flour and deep-fried until it puffs up. It’s served with potato curry.
Sabudana Khichdi – Tapioca Pearl Stir-Fry
This Maharashtrian dish features tapioca pearls stir-fried with peanuts, curry leaves, and spices. It’s a popular fasting recipe.
Sandesh – Bengali Sweet
Sandesh is a famous Bengali sweet made from fresh paneer (Indian cottage cheese), sugar, and cardamom. It’s often garnished with pistachios.
Rasgulla – Sweet Cheese Balls
Another Bengali favorite, Rasgulla consists of soft cottage cheese balls soaked in sugar syrup. It’s a delightful dessert enjoyed during Navaratri.
Mysore Pak
Mysore Pak is a sweet treat that originates from the city of Mysore in Karnataka. It’s made from ghee (clarified butter), sugar, and gram flour. The result is a rich, melt-in-the-mouth dessert that’s savored during Dussehra.
Puliyodarai (Tamarind Rice)
Puliyodarai is a tangy and spicy South Indian rice dish made with tamarind pulp and a flavorful spice mix. It’s a popular dish often prepared for festivals and special occasions.
Obbattu or Holige or Puran Poli
Obbattu or Bobbattu, also known as Holige in Karnataka and Puran Poli in Maharashtra, is a popular sweet flatbread made from chana dal (split chickpea lentils) and jaggery. It’s a traditional delicacy during Dussehra and is enjoyed in southern India.
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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