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.
What is Dharma?
Dharma: A Path to Purpose, Balance, and Harmony
Dharma is more than just a word in Indian philosophy—it’s a guiding principle that offers clarity, purpose, and balance in our daily lives. But what exactly is Dharma? How does it affect us, and why should we care about it?
What is Dharma?
At its core, Dharma refers to one’s duty or purpose in life, shaped by their role in society and personal circumstances. It’s like having a moral compass that points you toward righteousness, ensuring your actions contribute to both personal and societal harmony. The word “Dharma” comes from the Sanskrit root “dhr”, which means “to sustain” or “to uphold”—just like the foundations that hold up a building, Dharma sustains the moral and ethical order of life.
Have you ever wondered what your life’s purpose is? Dharma suggests that each of us has a unique role to play in this world. Whether you’re a parent, a teacher, a leader, or a friend, your Dharma reflects the responsibilities that come with your role. And by fulfilling them, you contribute to a larger cosmic order.
The Story of Arjuna: A Lesson in Dharma
One of the most famous examples of Dharma comes from the Bhagavad Gita, a revered Indian scripture. In this text, the warrior prince Arjuna is faced with a moral dilemma. He stands on the battlefield, torn between his duty as a warrior and his hesitation to wage war against his own family.
Enter Lord Krishna, his divine charioteer, who reminds Arjuna of his Swadharma—his personal duty as a warrior. Krishna encourages him to act according to his role, explaining that neglecting his Dharma would lead to societal chaos and personal unrest.
This timeless lesson teaches us that even when our duties seem difficult or emotionally challenging, fulfilling them with integrity leads to personal growth and social harmony.
Quotation from the Bhagavad Gita:
— Bhagavad Gita 2.31
“In the discharge of thy own duty, O Arjuna, there is no cause for hesitation. The warrior engaged in his own duty, right or wrong, shall not incur sin.”
Dharma in Different Philosophical Systems
Dharma isn’t limited to one religious tradition. It’s a universal concept, present in multiple schools of thought across Indian philosophy.
1. Dharma in Hinduism
In Hinduism, Dharma is about aligning our actions with the universal principles of righteousness. Every person has their own Swadharma, a personal duty that is shaped by their skills, nature, and place in society. Think of it as living in sync with your strengths and responsibilities. Neglecting one’s Swadharma can create chaos, both in the individual and in the world around them.
2. Dharma in Jainism
In Jainism, Dharma is closely tied to the journey toward liberation. Jain teachings emphasize right conduct, moral purity, and discipline. By adhering to one’s Dharma, a Jain seeks to purify their soul, moving closer to spiritual freedom.
3. Dharma in Buddhism
In Buddhism, Dharma (or Dhamma in Pali) refers to the teachings of Buddha. These teachings guide individuals toward ethical conduct, wisdom, and mental discipline. Following the Dharma helps Buddhists attain Nirvana, the ultimate liberation from suffering.
Dharma in Daily Life: How Do We Practice It?
Think of Dharma as your personal “to-do list” from the universe. Every day, you wake up with responsibilities—some big, some small. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or a parent, each role comes with its own duties. Fulfilling them with sincerity is practicing Dharma.
Imagine life as a giant play. Each of us has been assigned a role, and Dharma is our script. A king must rule with justice, a teacher must educate with care, and a parent must nurture with love. We don’t get to choose our roles, but we can choose how we perform them.
The Results of Following Dharma: Let Go of the Outcomes
Here’s a powerful insight from the Bhagavad Gita—Dharma is about action, not the result. Lord Krishna teaches that we must act according to our Dharma without attachment to the outcome. Ever planted a seed and tended to it with love, not knowing if it would grow? That’s the essence of practicing Dharma. We fulfill our duties because it’s right, not because we expect something in return.
Quotation from the Bhagavad Gita:
— Bhagavad Gita 3.35
“It is better to live your own destiny imperfectly than to live an imitation of somebody else’s life with perfection.”
In this way, Dharma encourages us to detach from personal gain. It teaches us that the real reward is in the integrity and effort we put into our duties, not in the outcome.
Dharma and Social Harmony: Keeping Society Together
Dharma isn’t just a personal pursuit—it’s the glue that holds society together. By fulfilling our roles with honesty and compassion, we contribute to societal harmony. Imagine if everyone ignored their duties—if doctors stopped healing or teachers stopped teaching. Society would quickly fall apart.
By practicing Dharma, we help maintain a balance. Whether we are leaders, caregivers, or students, each of us plays a crucial part in the well-being of society.
Common Misconceptions About Dharma
- Dharma is rigid: No, Dharma is flexible. It changes as we evolve and as our roles in life shift.
- Dharma is selfish: Quite the opposite! True Dharma emphasizes selflessness and service to others.
- Dharma is religious: While it has religious roots, Dharma is relevant to all aspects of life, from moral to social duties.
FAQs About Dharma
1. What is Dharma?
Dharma is one’s duty or purpose in life, determined by their role and station in society.
2. How does Dharma influence our lives?
Dharma guides our actions, promoting righteousness and harmony, contributing to individual growth and societal well-being.
3. Can Dharma change over time?
Yes, Dharma evolves as we move through different stages of life and take on new responsibilities.
4. How can one practice Dharma?
By understanding and fulfilling one’s duties with sincerity, dedication, and integrity.
5. Is Dharma only a religious concept?
No, it applies to every aspect of life, from family to work, and society at large.
Conclusion: Living with Purpose
Dharma teaches us that life has a purpose, and that purpose is shaped by the duties we perform. Whether you’re raising children, leading a team, or simply being a good friend, Dharma invites you to approach each role with integrity and dedication.
Ask yourself: What is your Dharma today? What role are you fulfilling, and how can you perform it with more sincerity and compassion?
As we practice Dharma, we not only improve ourselves but also contribute to the harmony and well-being of the world around us. Let’s embrace this ancient wisdom and live each day with purpose and balance.
Glossary of Terms
- Dharma: Duty, righteousness, and moral law that sustains the cosmic order, shaped by one’s role in life.
- Bhagavad Gita: A 700-verse Hindu scripture that comprises a dialogue between prince Arjuna and the god Krishna.
- Swadharma: One’s own duty or role, shaped by personal qualities and social position.
Samsara – is our existence an endless cycle?
Summary
The concept of Samsara refers to the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth that all living beings are believed to go through. According to this belief, a person’s actions and thoughts in their current life determine their future experiences, including their next birth. This cycle continues indefinitely until the individual is able to break free from it through attaining Moksha, or liberation from the cycle.
What is Samsara?
Samsara as understood in India, means that all living beings are subject to the cycle of samsara, which involves repeated cycles of birth, death, and rebirth.
In each new life, an individual is born into a new body and environment, determined by their past actions and karma.
The cycle of samsara continues indefinitely until the individual is able to break free from it through attaining Moksha.
Samsara, originating from the Sanskrit word meaning “wandering” or “continuous flow,” refers to the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth experienced by sentient beings. It is a fundamental concept deeply embedded in Indian cultural texts, including Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, each offering its unique perspective on this eternal cycle.
In the realm of Indian philosophy, Samsara is viewed as a cyclical journey of the soul through various lifetimes. It is believed that every individual soul, known as the Atman, is bound to this cycle until it achieves liberation or Moksha. The quality of one’s actions, guided by the law of Karma, determines the circumstances and experiences of each subsequent birth within Samsara.
Buddhism, too, acknowledges Samsara as a perpetual cycle of suffering.
Rooted in the Four Noble Truths, Buddhism posits that the attachment and craving for worldly desires bind individuals to this cycle, leading to perpetual dissatisfaction and rebirth. The goal in Buddhism is to break free from Samsara by attaining Nirvana, the state of ultimate liberation from suffering.
Jainism, known for its emphasis on non-violence and asceticism, also acknowledges Samsara as an unending cycle of birth and death.
In Jain philosophy, every living being, from the tiniest microorganism to the highest celestial being, is believed to be trapped in Samsara due to karmic bondage.
The path to liberation lies in the purification of the soul through right conduct, austerity, and the renunciation of attachments.
Sikhism, a distinct tradition that emerged in the Indian subcontinent, envisions Samsara as a cycle of birth and death influenced by individual actions and thoughts.
In Sikh philosophy, liberation from Samsara is sought through devotion to the divine, following the teachings of the Guru Granth Sahib, and leading a righteous and selfless life.
Across these various philosophical traditions, Samsara represents a state of perpetual existence, where individuals are subject to the fluctuations of joy and suffering, pleasure and pain, success and failure.
It is a continuous cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, perpetuated by desires, attachments, and the consequences of past actions.
The understanding of Samsara underscores the transient nature of worldly existence, urging individuals to seek liberation and transcendence.
It prompts a reflection on the impermanence and unsatisfactory nature of phenomenal reality, inspiring the pursuit of spiritual growth and the quest for ultimate truth.
The recognition of Samsara’s transient nature guides us towards seeking spiritual enlightenment, liberation, and the realization of our true nature beyond the boundaries of this eternal cycle.
Samsara, is like a spiritual journey where we can learn, grow, and become better versions of ourselves. Each life gives us chances to learn important lessons, let go of our attachments, and become more spiritually evolved.
What is rebirth and transmigration?
If we were to imagine life as a grand journey, with multiple stops along the way, and each stop represents a lifetime, a unique adventure filled with joys, challenges, and growth.
Now, let’s say that after each stop, we pack our bags, bid farewell to that stop and everything at that stop (and that particular body), and hop onto the next train to our next destination.
That’s rebirth in a nutshell.
It’s the idea that after our current life ends, our soul or consciousness moves on to another body, ready to embark on a brand new adventure. It’s like changing costumes for the next act in the cosmic theater of existence.
But what determines which train we board and what kind of journey awaits us?
That’s where transmigration comes into play. Transmigration suggests that the quality of our next journey is influenced by our actions, thoughts, and choices in our previous lives. It’s as if our deeds and experiences leave an impression on our soul, shaping the path and circumstances of our future lives.
So, if we led a life filled with kindness, compassion, and love, it’s like booking a first-class ticket to a more favorable destination in our next adventure. On the other hand, if our actions were unkind or harmful, well, let’s just say our next ride might be a bit bumpier.
The cycle of rebirth and transmigration is like a cosmic cycle of learning and growth. Each new life provides opportunities for us to learn valuable lessons, overcome challenges, and refine our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. It’s an ongoing journey of self-discovery, giving us chances to evolve and reach higher states of awareness and enlightenment.
So, if one can imagine oneself as a timeless traveler, one will be hopping from one train to another, with each journey building upon the experiences and choices of the last. It’s an ever-unfolding story, where the destination is liberation, freedom from the cycle of rebirth and transmigration (samsara) , and a union with the ultimate truth – moksha!
Ajanta Caves
What are the Ajanta Caves?
The Ajanta Caves are a series of 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave temples that were built between the 2nd century BC and the 6th century AD. The caves are carved into the side of a cliff and contain some of the finest examples of ancient Indian art, particularly paintings and sculptures.
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 Ellora Caves here.
Where are the Ajanta Caves?
The Ajanta Caves are located in the state of Maharashtra in western India, approximately 107 km north of the city of Aurangabad. The caves are situated in the Sahyadri hills, overlooking the Waghora River.
The most convenient way to reach the Ajanta Caves is by air or train to Aurangabad, which is well-connected to major cities in India. Aurangabad has its own airport, the Aurangabad Airport, which has regular flights to and from Mumbai, Delhi, and other major cities in India.
From Aurangabad, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the Ajanta Caves. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours by road, depending on the mode of transportation and traffic conditions.
What are the main features of the Ajanta Caves?
The Ajanta Caves are known for their unique and intricate ancient Buddhist art and architecture. Some of the main features of the caves include:
Rock-cut architecture: The Ajanta Caves were carved out of the rocky hillsides using only hand tools. The result is a series of impressive rock-cut structures that blend seamlessly into the natural landscape.
Paintings: The Ajanta Caves are famous for their exquisite paintings, which depict scenes from the life of the Buddha, as well as stories from the Jataka tales. The paintings were created using natural pigments and are considered to be some of the finest surviving examples of ancient Indian art.
Sculptures: The caves are adorned with numerous sculptures of the Buddha and the bodhisattvas, as well as other religious figures and mythological creatures. The sculptures are intricately carved and feature fine details and expressions.
Chaitya halls: The Ajanta Caves include several large halls, known as chaitya halls, which were used for worship and meditation. The halls are carved out of the rock and feature impressive pillars, arches, and decorative motifs.
Viharas: In addition to the chaitya halls, the Ajanta Caves also include several smaller caves, known as viharas, which were used as living quarters for the monks. The viharas feature simple, functional designs with few decorative elements.
Stupas: The caves also include several stupas, which are domed structures that were used to house Buddhist relics. The stupas are elaborately decorated and feature intricate carvings and sculptures.
What is the story behind the Ajanta Caves?
The story behind the Ajanta Caves is one of ancient Indian history, art, and religion. The caves were built over a period of several centuries, beginning in the 2nd century BCE and continuing until the 6th century CE. They were created primarily as a place of worship and meditation for Buddhist monks.
The location of the caves was chosen because of its remote and secluded setting in the Sahyadri hills of Maharashtra, which provided a peaceful and tranquil environment for the monks to practice their faith. Over the years, the caves were expanded and decorated with elaborate carvings, sculptures, and paintings that depicted the life of the Buddha and stories from the Jataka tales.
The caves were used for many years by the Buddhist monks, but they eventually fell into disuse and were abandoned. For centuries, they remained hidden and forgotten, until they were rediscovered by a group of British soldiers in the early 19th century.
Since their rediscovery, the Ajanta Caves have been recognized as one of the most important archaeological sites in India, and they have attracted visitors from around the world who come to marvel at their beauty and learn about the ancient Buddhist culture and history of the region.
What are the paintings about?
The paintings in the caves depict various scenes from the life of Buddha, as well as other religious and secular themes. The sculptures include images of Buddha and other deities, as well as scenes from daily life.
One of the most famous paintings in the Ajanta Caves is the “Bodhisattva Padmapani” painting in Cave 1. This painting depicts the Bodhisattva (enlightened being) Padmapani holding a lotus flower and standing in a graceful pose. The painting is noted for its fine details, such as the delicate folds of the Bodhisattva’s robes and the intricate patterns on his crown and jewelry. The painting is considered to be one of the finest examples of ancient Indian art and is a testament to the incredible skill and craftsmanship of the artists who created it.
What is the significance of Ajanta Caves?
The significance of the Ajanta Caves lies in their historical, cultural, and artistic value. The caves are considered to be one of the greatest surviving examples of ancient Indian art and architecture. They also provide important insights into the religious and cultural practices of ancient India, particularly Buddhism.
Are there any unique features that set these apart?
One of the unique features of the Ajanta Caves is their construction. The caves were carved into the side of a horseshoe-shaped cliff, and were excavated by hand using chisels and hammers. The craftsmen who built the caves were skilled in rock-cut architecture and were able to create intricate carvings and sculptures on the cave walls.
Who built the caves?
The Ajanta Caves were built over a period of several centuries, from around the 2nd century BCE to the 6th century CE.
It is not known exactly who built the Ajanta Caves, as there are no concrete references that tell us who the craftsmen were. However, it is believed that the caves were built over a period of several centuries, between the 2nd century BC and the 6th century AD. It is believed that the caves were created under the patronage of various rulers and patrons of the time, including the Satavahana dynasty, the Vakataka dynasty, and the Chalukya dynasty.
The rest of the cave complex at Ajanta consists of a series of 30 rock-cut caves, which are numbered from 1 to 30. The caves are divided into two phases of construction: the earlier Hinayana phase, which consists of caves 9, 10, 12, 13, and 15A, and the later Mahayana phase, which consists of the remaining caves.
The caves contain a wealth of art and sculpture, including paintings, carvings, and sculptures of Buddhist deities and scenes from Buddhism.
What are the most famous of Ajanta Caves?
The Ajanta Caves are a series of 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments located in Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, India. The caves are famous for their unique and exquisite ancient Buddhist art and architecture, dating back to the 2nd century BCE to the 6th century CE.
The most famous caves at Ajanta are:
Cave 1: This is the oldest and largest cave at Ajanta, also known as the Great Chaitya. It is a spectacular rock-cut cave with a large prayer hall and a stupa.
Cave 2: This is another significant cave at Ajanta, also known as the Maharaja’s Cave. It features impressive carvings of Buddha and Bodhisattvas, as well as scenes from the Jataka tales.
Cave 4: This cave is famous for its exquisite sculptures of Buddha and the bodhisattvas. It is also known for its magnificent ceiling painting of a Bodhisattva.
Cave 16: This cave is known for its magnificent sculptures and frescoes depicting the life of Buddha, as well as scenes from the Jataka tales.
Cave 17: This cave is known for its impressive paintings of Avalokitesvara, the bodhisattva of compassion.
Cave 19: This cave is known for its exquisite paintings depicting the life of Buddha and scenes from the Jataka tales.
Cave 26: This cave is famous for its large statue of Buddha in the preaching pose.
Cave 29: This cave is known for its unique architectural features, including a horseshoe-shaped facade and an octagonal-shaped interior.
Cave 30: This cave is the smallest at Ajanta, but it features some of the finest paintings in the entire complex.
Cave 6: This cave is significant for its impressive sculptures of Buddha and the bodhisattvas, as well as scenes from the Jataka tales.
Cave 10: This cave is known for its intricate carvings of women and celestial beings, as well as scenes from the life of Buddha.
Ancient Paintings in Ajanta Caves
Read more about the paintings
The paintings in the Ajanta Caves are considered to be one of the greatest surviving examples of ancient Indian art. They were executed in a unique style using natural pigments made from minerals, plants, and other organic materials.
The paintings depict various scenes from the life of Buddha, as well as other religious and secular themes. The themes of the paintings are divided into two categories, Jataka stories and the life of Buddha. The Jataka stories are tales of the Buddha’s previous lives, and are depicted in caves 1, 2, 16, and 17. The life of Buddha is depicted in caves 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 11, 12, 13, 15A, 16, 17, 19, 24, and 26.
The paintings are executed in a vibrant and colorful style, with a high degree of realism and attention to detail. The artists used shading and perspective to create the illusion of three-dimensional space, and used a range of colors to create a sense of depth and richness.
Some of the most famous paintings in the Ajanta Caves include the “Mahaparinirvana” painting in Cave 26, which depicts the death of Buddha, and the “Temptation of the Buddha” painting in Cave 17, which depicts the Buddha being tempted by Mara, the god of desire.
The paintings in the Ajanta Caves are an important source of information about the religious and cultural practices of ancient India, particularly Buddhism. They provide insights into the beliefs, values, and traditions of the people who lived in ancient India, and are an important cultural and artistic treasure of the country.
What materials were used for the paintings, which lasted for centuries?
Read More about Materials used in the paintings and how old these paintings are
The paintings in the Ajanta Caves were executed using a range of natural pigments made from minerals, plants, and other organic materials. The pigments used include red and yellow ochre, lampblack, copper sulfate, indigo, and lapis lazuli.The paintings in the Ajanta Caves are executed in a distinctive style known as the Ajanta style. This style is characterized by its use of bright colors, a high degree of realism and attention to detail, and a sense of movement and dynamism. The artists used shading and perspective to create the illusion of three-dimensional space, and used a range of colors to create a sense of depth and richness.
It is difficult to estimate the exact age of the paintings in the Ajanta Caves based on the materials used. However, it is believed that the paintings were executed over a period of several centuries, between the 2nd century BC and the 6th century AD. The materials used in the paintings are consistent with the period in which they were executed, and provide important insights into the artistic and cultural practices of ancient India.
Are there similar examples of paintings elsewhere?
Read More about other examples of similar paintings elsewhere
There are examples of ancient paintings from other parts of the world that were executed using similar materials as those used in the Ajanta Caves. For example, ancient Egyptian wall paintings were executed using natural pigments made from minerals, plants, and other organic materials, including red and yellow ochre, copper sulfate, and charcoal. Similarly, ancient Chinese paintings were executed using natural pigments made from plants, minerals, and other organic materials, including indigo, vermilion, and cinnabar.The age of these paintings varies depending on the specific examples. For example, some of the earliest surviving examples of ancient Egyptian wall paintings date back to the 4th millennium BC, while the oldest surviving examples of ancient Chinese paintings date back to the Han dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD).
While the materials used in the paintings in the Ajanta Caves are similar to those used in other ancient paintings, the style and content of the Ajanta paintings are unique to India and are an important example of ancient Indian art and culture.
To recap – here are some of the interesting facts about Ajanta Caves:
- The Ajanta Caves are a group of 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments located in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, India.
- The caves were built in two phases, with the first phase dating back to the 2nd century BCE and the second phase to the 5th century CE.
- The caves are famous for their stunning paintings, which are considered to be some of the finest surviving examples of ancient Indian art. The paintings depict scenes from the life of the Buddha, as well as other religious and secular subjects.
- The caves were rediscovered in 1819 by a British officer named John Smith, who was hunting tigers in the area. He stumbled upon the caves by chance and was struck by their beauty and historical significance.
- The Ajanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are considered to be one of the greatest surviving examples of ancient Indian architecture and art.
- The caves were constructed by skilled artisans who carved the rock surfaces by hand using only chisels and hammers. The intricate carvings and sculptures are a testament to the incredible skill and craftsmanship of the ancient Indian artisans.
- The caves were abandoned in the 7th century CE, possibly due to a combination of factors, including the decline of Buddhism in India and political upheaval in the region.
- The Ajanta Caves are also known for their impressive engineering feats, such as the sophisticated water management system that allowed for the collection and distribution of rainwater throughout the complex.
- The caves attract thousands of visitors every year, who come to marvel at their beauty and learn about the rich cultural and religious history of ancient India.
- The Ajanta Caves have been the subject of numerous films, documentaries, and books, and continue to be a source of fascination and inspiration for people around the world.
What you need to know before you visit…
More about Ajanta cave Murals or paintings
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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