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.
Deogiri Fort
In state of Maharashtra, near Aurangabad, there is a magnificent fort at Deogiri also known as the Daulatabad. It used to be called the Deogiri fort later renamed as the Daulatabad Fort. Get ready to step back in time and discover the origins, rise, and fall of this iconic structure.
The Story of the Deogiri fort
It’s story begins around the 12th century, approximately 800 years ago, in the heartland of India. At that time, Deogiri was a small village located in present-day Maharashtra. It was ruled by the ambitious Yadava dynasty, a clan of powerful warriors.
The Beginnings
In 1187 CE, the Yadava ruler Bhillama V founded a fortress atop a hill near Deogiri. This was the birth of the Deogiri Fort, which would later be renamed Daulatabad under the Delhi Sultanate. The strategic location of the hill made it an ideal spot for a fortress, providing a commanding view of the surrounding plains and enhancing its defensive capabilities.
Over time, the Yadavas transformed the fort into a formidable stronghold, fortifying it with thick stone walls, moats, and intricate defense mechanisms. The fort became renowned for its impregnability. The Yadavas dreamed of power, wealth, and prosperity.
Features
One of the most striking features of Daulatabad Fort was its majestic hilltop citadel. Perched at the summit, this inner fortress housed the royal palace, elegant courtyards, and luxurious chambers. The citadel was a testament to the opulence and grandeur of the Yadava dynasty.
However, the fortunes of Deogiri Fort took a dramatic turn in the early 14th century, around 700 years ago.
Treachery – The Fort falls into enemy hands
The ambitious Sultan Alauddin Khalji of the Delhi Sultanate set his sights on the fort, determined to bring it under his rule.
The Sultan, knowing the fort was almost impregnable employed a clever strategy to deceive the defenders. He enlisted the services of an engineer named Malik Kafur, who pretended to be a defector and gained the trust of the Yadava rulers. With insider knowledge, Kafur meticulously studied the fort’s vulnerabilities and defense mechanisms.
Exploiting internal strife and creating confusion among the defenders, the Delhi Sultanate launched a surprise attack, breaching the supposedly impregnable gates and capturing the fort.
Legends of this time tell the tale of Harpaladeva, a fearless Yadava warrior known for his loyalty and valor. He valiantly defended the fort against the invading forces of the Delhi Sultanate. Despite his heroic efforts, the fort eventually succumbed to the relentless assault, and the Delhi Sultanate emerged victorious in 1296 CE, after a fierce battle.
They later renamed the city “Daulatabad”, meaning “City of Fortune”.
Through available stories, we glimpse the heroic defense of Harpaladeva and the treacherous tactics of Malik Kafur.
The fate of the Daulatabad Fort
Under the Delhi Sultanate, Daulatabad Fort witnessed a period of decline. Its strategic significance diminished, and the fort gradually lost its glory. The Sultanate rulers made some modifications to the fort but didn’t invest much effort in its upkeep.
In the centuries that followed, Daulatabad Fort changed hands multiple times, each transition leaving its mark on the fort’s architecture and history.
It passed from the Delhi Sultanate to the Bahmani Sultanate. One notable event occurred during the Mughal Empire, approximately 400 years ago, when Emperor Aurangzeb aimed to bring the Deccan region, including Daulatabad, under his control. After a prolonged siege, the Mughals conquered the fort in 1633 CE, utilizing their military might and strategic approach.
After the Mughals, it fell to the Marathas. Each new ruler left their mark on the fort, adding their architectural influences and adapting it to their needs.
By the 18th century, approximately 300 years ago, Daulatabad Fort had lost much of its military importance. It became more of a historical landmark than an active stronghold.
The British East India Company, who emerged as a dominant force in India during that time, took control of the fort, and it eventually fell into disuse.
Today, the Deogiri or Daulatabad Fort stands as a remarkable testament to India’s rich history. Its awe-inspiring architecture and storied past draw visitors from around the world. Exploring its winding passages, secret chambers, and panoramic views allows us to connect with the past and marvel at the triumphs and setbacks of those who built and fought for it.
So, there you have it—the captivating tale of the Deogiri or Daulatabad Fort. From its humble beginnings as a village fortress to its rise as an impregnable stronghold, and its eventual transformation into a historical landmark, this fort has witnessed the ebb and flow of empires.
It stands as a testament to the resilience of ancient civilizations and leaves us in awe of the remarkable achievements of India’s past.
Where is it, and how do we get there?
The Deogiri or Daulatabad Fort is located near the town of Daulatabad in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, India. It is approximately 16 kilometers northwest of Aurangabad city.
To reach the fort, one can travel to Aurangabad, which is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is Aurangabad Airport, which has regular flights from major cities in India. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Daulatabad.
If you prefer traveling by train, Aurangabad Railway Station is the closest major railway station. It is connected to various cities across the country. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Daulatabad.
Once you reach Daulatabad, you can easily access the fort. The fort is situated atop a hill, and there is a paved pathway leading to the entrance. However, do keep in mind that reaching the fort requires climbing a substantial number of steps, so it is advisable to wear comfortable footwear and carry water.
Guides are available at the fort entrance who can provide interesting insights and historical information about the fort. Exploring the fort can be a captivating experience as you wander through its ancient passages, marvel at its architectural wonders, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
It is worth noting that Daulatabad Fort is a popular tourist attraction, and it is advisable to plan your visit during weekdays or non-peak seasons to avoid crowds. Additionally, it is recommended to check local regulations and opening hours before planning your trip, as they may be subject to change.
So, pack your curiosity and embark on a memorable journey to the Deogiri or Daulatabad Fort, where history awaits to be discovered amidst the stunning landscapes of Maharashtra.
Brihadeeswara Temple
What is Brihadeeswarar temple or Periya Kovil?
Periya Kovil, also known as Brihadeeswara Temple, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the city of Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India. It was built in the 11th century by the Chola dynasty king Raja Raja Chola I and is considered a masterpiece of South Indian architecture.
The temple is famous for its massive tower, which stands at 216 feet tall and is one of the tallest temple towers in the world. The tower is decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures that depict Hindu epic stories.
One of the unique features of the temple is that it was designed in such a way that the main deity in the sanctum sanctorum does not cast a shadow at noon during any time of the year.
This is achieved through the placement of the tower and the position of the sun.
The temple also has a large Nandi (bull) statue made of a single stone, which is 16 feet long and 13 feet high, making it one of the largest Nandi statues in India.
Periya Kovil is considered a UNESCO World Heritage site and is visited by thousands of tourists and devotees every year. It is renowned for its architectural beauty, historical significance, and spiritual importance.
How was the Brihadeeswarar temple built?
There are several theories about how the Brihadeeswarar Temple was built, but the most widely accepted one is that it was built using a ramp system to raise the massive stone blocks into place.
It is believed that the stones were quarried from nearby locations and transported to the site using elephants and carts.
What are the unique features of the temple?
One of the most remarkable features of the temple is the round stone at the top of the tower, which weighs around 80 tons.
This stone is believed to have been brought to the site using a specially designed ramp and then raised to the top of the tower using a complex system of ropes and pulleys.
It is said that the stone was placed on top of the tower using a technique known as “kudakkal”, which involved placing a wooden frame around the stone and then removing the frame once it was in place.
What is the statue in front of the temple?
The Nandi statue that sits in front of the temple is made of a single stone and is 16 feet long and 13 feet high. It weighs around 25 tons and is one of the largest Nandi statues in India. The statue is said to have been carved from a single piece of rock and then transported to the site using elephants and carts.
Why is the Nandi statue in the front of any Shiva temple?
The bull, or Nandi, is a sacred animal in Hinduism and is also the vehicle or mount of Lord Shiva. Therefore, it is customary to have a statue of a bull in front of every Shiva temple.
In the Indian epics, Nandi is depicted as a divine being who is very loyal and obedient to Lord Shiva. He is said to have a profound knowledge of music and dance and is often associated with fertility and strength.
The statue of the bull in front of a Shiva temple is not just a decorative feature but also has a symbolic and religious significance.
It represents Nandi’s devotion to Lord Shiva and serves as a reminder of the devotee’s own devotion and loyalty to the deity.
In many Shiva temples, the statue of the bull is placed in such a way that it faces the entrance of the temple, indicating that Nandi is the gatekeeper of the temple and that he grants permission to enter the temple and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
The statue of the bull in front of every Shiva temple is an important symbol in Hinduism and represents the close bond between Lord Shiva and Nandi, as well as the devotion and loyalty that devotees should have towards their deity.
How big is the temple?
The temple itself is 216 feet tall, with the tower accounting for around 198 feet of its height. The base of the temple is around 96 feet square, while the sanctum sanctorum, or garbhagriha, is around 20 feet square.
The temple complex covers an area of around 30 acres and includes several other smaller temples and structures.
How long did it take to build this temple?
It is believed that the temple took around 7 years to build, from 1003 AD to 1010 AD, with over 60,000 workers and artisans involved in its construction.
The temple was built using a combination of granite and limestone, with the granite blocks used for the lower portions of the temple and the limestone used for the upper portions.
The temple has undergone several renovations and restorations over the centuries, but its original design and architecture have been largely preserved.
Who built the Brihadeeswara Temple?
The Brihadeeswara Temple at Tanjavur, also known as the Periya Kovil, was built by King Rajaraja Chola I, one of the greatest monarchs of the Chola dynasty, in the year 1010 AD.
Rajaraja Chola I was the third ruler of the Chola dynasty and is considered to be one of the greatest kings in Indian history. He was an accomplished military commander and administrator who led the Chola dynasty to new heights of power and prosperity. He expanded his kingdom through successful military campaigns and established a powerful naval fleet that controlled the seas around South India.
Under Rajaraja’s reign, the Chola dynasty reached its zenith and extended its influence across South India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia. He was known for his patronage of the arts, literature, and architecture, and his reign was marked by a period of cultural and economic growth.
The Brihadeeswara Temple is considered to be one of Rajaraja’s greatest contributions to Indian architecture. The temple is a masterpiece of South Indian architecture and is renowned for its towering vimana, or tower, which stands at over 200 feet tall. The temple is also famous for its massive Nandi statue, which is carved out of a single stone and weighs over 20 tonnes.
Rajaraja was also known for his successful trade relations with foreign kingdoms. He maintained close ties with the Srivijaya Empire in Southeast Asia and traded with the Arab world, China, and Europe.
The Chola navy played a crucial role in facilitating trade and commerce, and Rajaraja’s reign was marked by a period of economic growth and prosperity.
Overall, Rajaraja Chola I was an accomplished ruler who made significant contributions to the Chola dynasty’s military, administrative, and cultural achievements. The Brihadeeswara Temple at Tanjavur is a testament to his architectural prowess and his patronage of the arts.
What is Gangaikonda Cholapuram?
The name Gangaikonda refers to a title that was given to the Chola King Rajendra I, (the son of Raja Raja Chola who built the Brihadeeswara temple at Tanjavur, above) who ruled from 1012 to 1044 AD.
Gangaikonda literally means “the one who conquered the Ganges”, and it is believed that Rajendra I earned this title after he successfully led a military campaign to conquer several regions in northern India, including the Ganges basin.
According to historical accounts, Rajendra I led a massive army of over 200,000 soldiers on a campaign to expand the Chola empire. He conquered several kingdoms and regions, including the city of Kalinga, which was a major center of trade and commerce in ancient India. Rajendra I then continued his campaign further north and eventually reached the banks of the river Ganges.
At the time (it still is), the Ganges or the river Ganga as it is actually known in India, was considered one of the holiest rivers in India and was revered by Hindus as a symbol of purity and sanctity. Rajendra I’s conquest of the Ganges basin was therefore seen as a major achievement and a symbol of the Chola empire’s military might and dominance.
To commemorate his victory, Rajendra I built a new capital city called Gangaikonda Cholapuram, which means “the city of the Chola king who conquered the Ganga River”. The city was built around a grand temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it became a major center of trade, commerce, and culture in southern India.
Today, the Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its architectural beauty and historical significance. It is a testament to the grandeur and power of the Chola dynasty and their achievements in the fields of art, culture, and military conquest.
Who were the Cholas?
The Cholas were a powerful dynasty that ruled over a large part of southern India from the 9th to the 13th century AD. They were known for their military conquests, their patronage of the arts and culture, and their contributions to trade and commerce in the region.
Under the rule of the Chola kings, the kingdom expanded to encompass large parts of present-day Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh, as well as parts of Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
At its peak, the Chola empire covered an area of over 200,000 square miles.
For context, the land area of the British Isles, including the area of modern Ireland, is approximately 121,684 square miles (315,134 square kilometers).
The British Isles includes Great Britain (which consists of England, Scotland, and Wales), Ireland (which consists of the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland), and many smaller islands.
The Cholas were great patrons of the arts and culture, and they made significant contributions to the fields of literature, music, dance, and architecture.
They built several magnificent temples and monuments, many of which still stand today and are considered among the finest examples of South Indian architecture.
In addition to their cultural achievements, the Cholas were also known for their maritime trade and commerce. They had a well-developed navy and maintained trade links with several kingdoms and regions, including Southeast Asia, China, and the Middle East. The Chola kingdom was a major center of trade, and its ports were among the busiest and most prosperous in the region.
The Cholas also had a significant influence on the political and cultural landscape of the region. They established diplomatic and cultural ties with neighboring kingdoms and were known for their patronage of the arts and literature. They also played a significant role in the spread of Hinduism, and many of their cultural and religious practices continue to influence the region to this day.
Where can we see the influence of the Cholas?
During the reign of the Chola dynasty in southern India, they had significant influence in several kingdoms in Southeast Asia, including:
Srivijaya: An ancient Malay kingdom that was located on the island of Sumatra in present-day Indonesia. The Cholas had trade and diplomatic ties with Srivijaya, and Indian culture and religion had a significant influence on the kingdom.
Champa: A kingdom that was located in present-day Vietnam. The Cholas had trade links with Champa and played a role in spreading Indian culture and religion in the region.
Khmer Empire: An ancient kingdom that was located in present-day Cambodia. The Cholas had trade and diplomatic ties with the Khmer Empire, and Indian culture and religion played a significant role in the kingdom’s cultural and religious landscape.
The Cholas were known for their maritime trade, and their ships carried Indian merchants and scholars to these kingdoms.
The Cholas traded in spices, textiles, and precious stones, among other commodities, and their trade links helped establish cultural and religious ties between India and Southeast Asia.
Indian culture and religion, including Hinduism and Buddhism, spread to Southeast Asia through Indian traders, scholars. The Cholas played a significant role in this process, and many of the temples and monuments built by the Cholas in southern India exhibit clear influences on Southeast Asian architecture and art.
One of the most significant examples of Chola influence in Southeast Asia is the temple complex of Angkor Wat in Cambodia, which was built by the Khmer Empire in the 12th century AD.
The temple’s architecture and layout show clear influences from Indian temple architecture, including the Dravidian style that was prominent in the Chola kingdom.
What other dynasties or kingdoms existed around at that time?
The Chola dynasty existed during a time of great political and cultural flourishing in southern India, between the 9th and 13th centuries AD. The Cholas were one of the most powerful and influential dynasties of this period, and their reign was marked by significant achievements in art, architecture, literature, and trade.
During the Chola period, other prominent dynasties also existed in southern India, including the Pallavas and the Pandya dynasties.
The Pallavas
The Pallavas ruled the northern parts of present-day Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh from the 3rd to the 9th centuries AD, while the Pandya dynasty ruled the southern parts of present-day Tamil Nadu from the 6th to the 14th centuries AD.
The Pallavas were known for their patronage of art and architecture, and several significant temples and monuments were built during their reign, including the Shore Temple in Mamallapuram and the Kailasanatha Temple in Kanchipuram.
The Pallavas also had trade links with kingdoms in Southeast Asia, and Indian culture and religion had a significant influence on these kingdoms.
The Pandyas
The Pandya dynasty was known for its maritime trade and had trade links with kingdoms in Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. The Pandya rulers were also patrons of art and literature, and several significant temples and monuments were built during their reign, including the Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai and the Nellaiappar Temple in Tirunelveli.
The Chola dynasty, however, was the most influential and powerful dynasty of the three. The Cholas were known for their maritime trade, and their navy was one of the most powerful in the world during their reign. The Cholas also had a significant impact on Indian art, architecture, and literature, and several significant temples and monuments were built during their reign, including the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, the Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram, and the Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple.
The Cholas’ trade links with kingdoms in Southeast Asia were also more extensive than those of the Pallavas and the Pandyas. The Cholas maintained diplomatic ties with several kingdoms in Southeast Asia and played a key role in spreading Indian culture and religion in the region. The temple complex of Angkor Wat in Cambodia is one of the most significant examples of Chola influence in Southeast Asia.
Ellora Caves
What are the Ellora Caves?
The Ellora Caves are a group of 34 rock-cut temples located near the city of Aurangabad in Maharashtra, India. The caves were carved out of the volcanic basalt rock in the 6th to 10th centuries CE and represent one of the largest rock-cut monastery-temple cave complexes in the world.
Embed from Getty ImagesThe Ellora Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are considered to be one of the greatest examples of rock-cut architecture in India.
Vignettes of Ajanta & Ellora – Google Arts & Culture
The caves are a testament to the religious harmony that existed in ancient India, as they include Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain temples, all located in close proximity to one another.
The rest of the video covers the other caves. Source
The Hindu caves at Ellora are dedicated to the god Shiva and feature elaborate carvings and sculptures depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. The Buddhist caves are decorated with intricate paintings and carvings depicting the life and teachings of the Buddha, while the Jain caves feature detailed carvings of Jain tirthankaras (spiritual leaders).
The most famous cave at Ellora is the Kailasa Temple, which is the largest monolithic structure in the world. It was believed to have been built in the 8th century CE (but no hard evidences exist) and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is carved entirely out of a single rock, and it is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures that depict scenes from great Indian epics.
Are Ajanta and Ellora the same?
No. They are very different and both are a must see for anyone to admire and appreciate the artwork which is perhaps the most unique in all of the known world.
Read more about the Ajanta Caves here.
Where are the Ellora caves located?
Ellora Caves are located in the Indian state of Maharashtra, about 30 kilometers from the city of Aurangabad. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are renowned for their rock-cut architecture and intricate sculptures.
Who built the Ellora caves? And when?
The Ellora Caves were built over a period of several centuries, from the 6th to the 10th centuries CE, under the patronage of various rulers and patrons of the time. The exact identities of these rulers and patrons are not known with certainty, as very little historical documentation exists from this period.
However, it is believed that the caves were built by a number of different dynasties and religious groups, including the Rashtrakutas, the Chalukyas, and the Yadavas, who were all powerful South Indian dynasties during this period. These rulers were patrons of the arts and provided financial support for the construction of religious monuments, including the Ellora Caves.
The Hindu caves at Ellora were likely built during the reign of the Rashtrakuta dynasty, who were great patrons of Hinduism and built several large temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Buddhist and Jain caves were likely built during the reign of the Chalukya dynasty, who were known for their support of Buddhism and Jainism.
What is the Kailasa Temple?
The Kailasa temple, located in Cave 16, is considered one of the most remarkable structures in the Ellora Caves. It is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and was built in the 8th century AD by the Rashtrakuta king Krishna I. It is believed to be the largest monolithic structure in the world, carved out of a single piece of rock.
How long did it take to build this one temple?
The construction of the Kailasa temple is unique and remarkable, with its intricate carvings and sculptural details. It is not clear how long it took to build the temple, but it is believed to have taken several decades.
Who built the Kailasa temple?
Although there is no concrete evidence to suggest who exactly built the Kailasa temple, historians and scholars attribute it to the Rashtrakuta dynasty, based on inscriptions found on the site.
For a good coverage of this temple see this video – the first and last part of this, show this temple.
Are all the caves at Ellora the same?
The rest of the Ellora Caves also feature impressive architecture and intricate sculptures. The Buddhist caves are known for their peaceful aura and contain large statues of the Buddha. The Jain caves are highly ornate, with elaborate carvings and friezes depicting scenes from Jain mythology.
Why is the Kailasa temple considered unique, perhaps in all of India, if not the entire world?
The Kailasa temple at Ellora (Cave 16) is a remarkable example of ancient Indian rock-cut architecture. The temple is carved out of a single massive rock, and its construction required an exceptional level of skill and technical expertise.
To create the temple, the builders first removed the debris and soil surrounding the rock to expose the solid rock face.
Then they would have used hammers and chisels to create a rough outline of the temple’s floor plan, pillars, and sculptures.
The next step would have been to carve the temple’s intricate details, including the reliefs, sculptures, and ornamental motifs, using smaller chisels and polishing tools.
The construction of the Kailasa temple was a complex and time-consuming process, requiring the efforts of skilled artisans, architects, and laborers working over many years. The temple’s sheer scale and complexity, as well as the delicate details of the carvings, would have required an immense amount of effort and patience.
A single mistake would make the entire temple impossible to build. They would have to make sure the SINGLE rock they used does not have any cracks or blemishes INSIDE it. The temple is MULTIPLE stories and is not a tiny temple!
The skill level and design planning, had to be of an unimaginable level!
One glaring thing most visitors will notice is that several of the sculptures of the gods are broken or disfigured. This was the work has been attributed to Aurangazeb one of the mughal rulers. He was a very devout follower of his religion which forbade idolatry and he ordered the destruction of this temple which was too hard, and they eventually gave up after several years.
Why? The sculptures were too hard to break! (It’s a wonder that the original carvers and sculptors were able to carve intricate designs several centuries earlier!)
Is it even possible to build something like the Kailasa temple today?
It is unlikely that such a temple could be built today, at least not in the same way. Modern construction techniques and equipment may be able to achieve a similar outcome, but the level of detail and artistry achieved by the ancient builders is difficult to replicate with modern machinery.
Moreover, the Kailasa temple’s rock-cut architecture is unique to its time and place, and it represents a particular tradition of Indian architectural style that is not widely practiced today. The building of such an intricate structure would also pose significant logistical and financial challenges in today’s world.
Are there any other structures made from a single rock (monolithic) anywhere?
While the Kailasa temple at Ellora is considered one of the most remarkable structures in the world, there are a few other examples of monolithic construction that are comparable in complexity and grandeur.
However, none of them are identical to the Kailasa temple in terms of design or artistic style.
One such example is the Abu Simbel temple complex in Egypt, which was built in the 13th century BC by Pharaoh Ramesses II.
The complex includes two temples, each of which is carved out of a single rock face. The temples are adorned with intricate reliefs and sculptures, and their construction required the efforts of thousands of workers.
Another example is the Lycian tombs in Turkey, which were carved out of solid rock in the 4th century BC. The tombs are ornately decorated with sculptural details, and some of them are several stories high.
However, it is worth noting that the Kailasa temple at Ellora is unique in terms of its size, complexity, and artistic style. The sheer scale and level of detail of the temple’s carvings make it a truly remarkable achievement in the history of world architecture.
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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