By Desis, for Desis and Everyone Else!!
This site seeks to demystify Indian customs and culture for anyone who wants to learn more. Hopefully, you find the content interesting, educational and find answers to questions you had, but never asked.
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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.
Ancient and very simple, 10 guidelines for life
Here are some simple guidelines to live a peaceful and contented life - based on ancient wisdom from the different schools of philosophies from India, do note that these have been edited for this content and by no means an official list, but we hope they help give an overall understanding:
1) Embrace Dharma - Do your Duty
Discover your unique role and responsibilities in life, aligning your actions with righteousness and fulfilling your duties selflessly (Dharma).
2) Do Positive Actions
Engage in virtuous deeds, treating others with kindness, compassion, and respect. Understand that your actions have consequences and strive to create positive ripples in the river of Karma.
3) Detach yourself from the Results
Perform your duties without attachment to the outcomes, focusing on the sincerity and righteousness of your actions rather than personal gains. Surrender to the natural flow of events, trusting in the wisdom of the universe (Detachment from Results).
4) Be aware of the Illusions of the world
Realize the illusory nature of the material world and see through the enchanting veil of Maya. Understand that true fulfillment and lasting happiness lie beyond the transient aspects of existence.
5) Seek Liberation from bondage of self and desires
Aspire for Moksha, the ultimate liberation from the cycle of rebirth and transmigration. Realize your true nature, transcending the illusions of Maya and attaining unity with the divine (Moksha).
6) Practice Awareness
Cultivate present-moment awareness, embracing each experience with gratitude and acceptance. Live with awareness, be mindful, paying attention to your thoughts, words, and actions, ensuring they align with your Dharma.
7) Nurture Inner Growth
Strive for personal growth and spiritual development. Continuously reflect on your beliefs, values, and actions, seeking to deepen your understanding and connection with the divine.
8) Find Balance
Lead a balanced life, attending to your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Honor your own needs while also contributing to the welfare of others and society.
9) Choose Love and Compassion
Let love and compassion be your guiding principles. Extend kindness and understanding to yourself and others, recognizing the inherent divinity within all beings.
10) Cultivate Contentment
Embrace gratitude for the blessings in your life, finding contentment in the present moment. Let go of excessive desires and attachments, knowing that true fulfillment comes from within.
By integrating these principles into our life's tapestry, we can embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery, harmony, acceptance, service and contentment.
Martial Arts in India?
Is yoga the only known physical form of exercise or practice that existed in India?
Yoga is not the only physical form of exercise or practice that existed in India. India has a long history of physical practices and exercises that were used to stay in shape and maintain physical fitness.
These physical practices were not limited to the military and were often practiced by ordinary people as well. They were seen as important for maintaining physical health and fitness, as well as for spiritual and mental well-being.
There is an ancient history of martial arts and training with and without weapons, and when weapons were used there were so many and these were not just referred to as a form of martial art, but as a science in the ancient scriptures.
Let us look at just some of the most well known ones:
Silambam, Thang Ta, Gatka, Mardani Khel and Kalaripayattu
Varma Kalai
Varma Kalai is a traditional Indian martial art that is primarily focused on vital points of the human body, known as "varma points".
The word "varma" means "hidden" or "secret" in Tamil, and the art is believed to have originated in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, where it is still practiced today.
According to legend, Varma Kalai was developed thousands of years ago by the sage Agastya, who is also credited with many other contributions to Tamil culture and tradition, but the true origins of the art are not well documented.
Varma Kalai is known for its emphasis on targeting specific varma points on the body, which are believed to be centers of energy and life force.
By striking or manipulating these points, practitioners of Varma Kalai can theoretically control their opponent's movements, knock them unconscious, or even kill them.
In addition to its martial applications, Varma Kalai also includes a range of healing techniques, including massage, herbal medicine, and yoga.
Many practitioners of the art believe that the manipulation of varma points can be used to treat a wide range of medical conditions, including chronic pain, digestive issues, and respiratory problems.
While Varma Kalai is primarily associated with Tamil Nadu, similar practices can be found in other parts of India and Southeast Asia.
For example, in Thailand, the martial art of Muay Boran includes techniques for striking vital points on the body, and in China, the art of Dim Mak focuses on attacking pressure points to disable or incapacitate an opponent.
Kalaripayattu
Kalaripayattu is a traditional martial art form that originated in the Indian state of Kerala.
It is considered one of the oldest martial arts in the world, with a history that can be traced back over 3,000 years.
The name "Kalaripayattu" is derived from the Malayalam words "kalari" (which means "training hall") and "payattu" (which means "exercise" or "practice").
According to legend, Kalaripayattu was created by the sage Parashurama, an avatar of the Hindu god Vishnu. Parashurama is said to have created the art as a means of teaching self-defense to the scholars, yogis and sanyasis (hindu monks), who usually do not carry weapons.
Kalaripayattu is known for its fluid, acrobatic movements, which are designed to improve agility, flexibility, and balance. The art incorporates a wide range of techniques, including strikes, kicks, grappling, and weapons training. Some of the weapons used in Kalaripayattu include the sword, shield, spear, and bow and arrow.
Here is a cool sword fight using this technique in a Jackie Chan movie - The Myth.
In addition to its martial applications, Kalaripayattu also includes a range of healing techniques, such as massage and herbal medicine. The art emphasizes the importance of developing a strong mind-body connection, and practitioners are encouraged to focus on breathing, meditation, and mental discipline.
Similar martial arts can be found in other parts of India and Southeast Asia, such as Silambam in Tamil Nadu and Muay Thai in Thailand. However, Kalaripayattu is considered unique for its combination of physical and spiritual training, as well as its focus on the principles of Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine.
Kalaripayattu, in particular, has had a significant influence on the development of other martial arts around the world, including karate, kung fu, and capoeira. The movements and techniques of Kalaripayattu have been incorporated into these martial arts, and many practitioners of these arts recognize the influence of Kalaripayattu on their practices.
The origins of Kalaripayattu can be traced back to ancient India, where it was primarily used as a form of combat training for soldiers. Over time, it evolved into a more holistic practice that included physical, mental, and spiritual training. The transfer of Kalaripayattu to other martial arts around the world is believed to have been influenced by the travels of Indian monks and traders, who spread the practice to other countries.
Gatka
Gatka is a traditional martial art form that originated in the Punjab region of India, which includes parts of present-day India and Pakistan. The art is primarily associated with the Sikh community, and it is considered an important part of Sikh culture and heritage.
Gatka is a weapon-based martial art, with a focus on swordsmanship and stick fighting. The art incorporates a wide range of weapons, including swords, spears, shields, and daggers, as well as empty-hand techniques.
The origins of Gatka can be traced back to the time of the Sikh gurus, who encouraged the practice of martial arts among their followers. According to legend, the tenth Sikh guru, Guru Gobind Singh, was a skilled warrior who developed many of the techniques used in Gatka. The art was also used by the Sikhs as a means of defending themselves against the Mughal Empire, which ruled over much of India at the time.
Today, Gatka is primarily practiced as a cultural and spiritual tradition, rather than as a means of self-defense. It is often performed at Sikh festivals and other cultural events, and it is considered an important part of Sikh identity.
Similar martial arts can be found in other parts of India and Southeast Asia, such as Kalaripayattu in Kerala and Silambam in Tamil Nadu. However, Gatka is considered unique for its emphasis on the values of the Sikh faith, such as humility, courage, and self-discipline, and for its incorporation of traditional Punjabi music and dance into the practice.
Silambam
Silambam is a traditional Indian martial art form that originated in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The art is primarily focused on the use of a long bamboo staff, called a silambam, but it also incorporates a range of empty-hand techniques and other weapons.
The history of Silambam can be traced back over 2,000 years, and it is believed to have been developed by the Tamil people as a means of self-defense and hunting.
The art was also used by the Tamil kings as a means of training their soldiers, and it was an important part of Tamil culture and tradition.
Silambam is known for its fluid, flowing movements, which are designed to improve balance, coordination, and agility. The art incorporates a wide range of techniques, including strikes, blocks, throws, and joint locks, and it places a strong emphasis on footwork and timing.
In addition to its martial applications, Silambam also includes a range of healing techniques, such as massage and herbal medicine. The art emphasizes the importance of developing a strong mind-body connection, and practitioners are encouraged to focus on breathing, meditation, and mental discipline.
Similar martial arts can be found in other parts of India and Southeast Asia, such as Kalaripayattu in Kerala and Arnis in the Philippines. However, Silambam is considered unique for its emphasis on the use of the staff as a primary weapon, as well as its incorporation of traditional Tamil music and dance into the practice.
Malla Yuddha
Malla-yuddha, also known as Mallakamba, is a traditional form of Indian wrestling that originated in Karnataka, a state in southern India. It is a centuries-old martial art that has been practiced in India for generations, and it remains popular in some parts of the country today.
Malla-yuddha involves the use of a wooden pole or rope, which the wrestler uses to perform various acrobatic moves and holds. The goal of the sport is to pin down one's opponent, using a combination of strength, technique, and strategy. The sport can be performed individually or in teams, and competitions are typically held in arenas or open spaces.
Historically, Malla-yuddha was a popular form of combat training among warriors and soldiers in ancient India. It was considered an important skill for defending oneself and one's community, and it was often incorporated into military training programs. Over time, Malla-yuddha became more of a recreational sport, and it is now primarily practiced for entertainment and cultural reasons.
There are similar forms of wrestling and martial arts that exist in other parts of the world, such as Sumo wrestling in Japan, Pehlwani in Pakistan, and Shuai Jiao in China. While the techniques and rules may differ, these practices all share a common focus on grappling, throwing, and pinning down one's opponent, making them similar in some ways to Malla-yuddha.
Mardani Khel
The martial art from Maharashtra that was popularized by the Maratha Empire is called "Mardani Khel".
It is a traditional Indian martial art form that originated in the province of Sindh (now part of Pakistan) and was later adopted and developed by the Maratha warriors.
Mardani Khel emphasizes physical fitness, agility, and strength training, as well as weapon-based combat. It is said to be based on the movements and behavior of various animals, such as the lion, tiger, snake, and peacock, and incorporates a variety of weapons including swords, shields, daggers, and spears.
The Maratha Empire, which ruled over large parts of present-day India in the 17th and 18th centuries, was known for its military prowess and use of Mardani Khel in battle. The Maratha warrior-king Shivaji is said to have been a skilled practitioner of the martial art, and he used it to great effect in his battles against the Mughal Empire.
Today, efforts are being made to revive and promote Mardani Khel as a cultural and martial heritage of Maharashtra. While it is not as well-known or widely practiced as some other Indian martial arts, Mardani Khel remains an important part of the martial history and traditions of Maharashtra and the Maratha people.
Thang Ta
Thang Ta, also known as Huyen lallong, is a martial art form that originated in the northeastern Indian state of Manipur. It is a combination of two different martial art forms - Thang Ta (sword and spear) and Sarit Sarak (hand to hand combat).
Thang Ta involves the use of swords and spears, and Sarit Sarak is focused on unarmed combat. Together, they form a comprehensive system of self-defense that emphasizes fluidity, grace, and speed.
The history of Thang Ta dates back to the ancient times when the people of Manipur used these techniques to defend themselves against neighboring tribes and other threats. It was also used by Manipuri kings and warriors during battles and conflicts.
Today, Thang Ta is primarily practiced as a form of cultural preservation and is performed during festivals and other celebrations in Manipur. It has also gained popularity as a form of physical exercise and self-defense in other parts of India and around the world.
While Thang Ta is a unique martial art form, there are some similarities with other martial arts in Southeast Asia, such as Silat from Indonesia, Kali from the Philippines, and Muay Boran from Thailand. These martial arts share some similar techniques and philosophies, including an emphasis on fluid movement, weapon-based combat, and close-range fighting.
Other Martial arts
Other traditional martial arts & practices in the Indian subcontinent that have either been lost or are not widely practiced anymore.
Huyen langlon
Huyen langlon is a traditional martial art from Assam that shares many similarities with Thang Ta. It combines unarmed combat with the use of weapons, including swords, spears, and sticks.
Mukna
Mukna is a traditional form of wrestling from Assam that incorporates elements of striking and grappling. It is believed to have originated over 500 years ago and was traditionally practiced by men from the Meitei community.
Buroi chikhong
Buroi chikhong is a traditional stick fighting style from Assam that involves the use of a long bamboo stick. It is primarily practiced by the Karbi and Dimasa communities and is often performed during festivals and other celebrations.
Lathi khela
Lathi khela, which is also practiced in other parts of the Indian subcontinent, is a traditional martial art that involves the use of a long bamboo stick.
Ghatta kala
Ghatta kala was a traditional martial art from the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh that was practiced primarily by the Jat community. It involved the use of a short stick and a small shield and incorporated a range of techniques, including striking, blocking, and joint locks.
Marma Adi
Marma Adi is a martial art from the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu that incorporates elements of Kalaripayattu and Varma Kalai. It focuses on the use of pressure points and joint locks and emphasizes the importance of meditation and internal energy.
Adimurai
Adimurai is a traditional martial art form that originated in the southern state of Tamil Nadu in India. It is believed to be used since over 2,000 years.
Adimurai is a combination of various techniques such as hand-to-hand combat, grappling, weapons training, and other self-defense techniques. Adimurai is similar in some ways to other Indian martial arts such as Kalaripayattu and Silambam, but it also has unique features that distinguish it from these other styles. Adimurai was traditionally practiced by the warrior class in Tamil Nadu, and was used to defend against invading armies and other threats.
Cheruvadi
Cheruvadi is a martial art from the southern Indian state of Kerala that is similar to Kalaripayattu but places more emphasis on weapon-based combat.
Nati
Nati is a martial art from the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh that incorporates elements of Kalaripayattu and is primarily focused on unarmed combat and self-defense.
Kusti
Kusti, also known as Indian wrestling, is a traditional form of wrestling that is popular in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. It involves grappling and submission holds, and is typically performed on a dirt surface.
These traditional martial arts practices continue to be an important part of India's cultural heritage and history. While they may not be as well-known as some of the more popular martial arts practices from other parts of India and the region, they did exist - and sadly not all of them are practiced anymore.
The 4 stages of life
In ancient Indian traditions, they believed that everyone must treat life as being in 4 stages. This was not a requirement but a suggestion in order for everyone to lead a fulfilling life. Let us look at what these are...
According to ancient Indian teachings, there are four main stages of life, known as "ashramas" that an individual is expected to follow during their lifetime. These stages provide a framework for personal growth, social responsibilities, and spiritual development.
The four ashramas are:
Brahmacharya
This stage is focused on education, self-discipline, and celibacy. It begins with childhood and extends into youth. During this period, individuals receive formal education, develop moral values, and cultivate skills necessary for later stages of life. Brahmacharya emphasizes learning, character building, and the pursuit of knowledge under the guidance of a teacher or guru.
Grihastha
This stage represents the householder phase, where an individual enters into married life, establishes a family, and takes up worldly responsibilities. It involves fulfilling societal duties, raising children, pursuing a career, and contributing to the welfare of the family and society. Grihastha emphasizes the pursuit of material wealth, balancing worldly responsibilities, and leading a righteous and ethical life.
Vanaprastha
This stage marks the transition from worldly life to a more contemplative and detached existence. After fulfilling family and social obligations, individuals gradually withdraw from their active roles and responsibilities. Vanaprastha is a period of semi-retirement and self-reflection, where individuals focus on spiritual practices, meditation, and seeking higher truths. They may undertake pilgrimages, engage in introspection, and prepare themselves for the final stage of life.
Sanyasa
This stage represents complete renunciation and detachment from worldly affairs. Sanyasa is characterized by a renunciate lifestyle, where individuals relinquish material possessions, social ties, and all attachments. They dedicate themselves fully to spiritual pursuits, seeking liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death. Sannyasis live a life of simplicity, meditation, and service to humanity, detached from the material world.
It's important to note that these stages are not strictly followed by everyone in contemporary society, and their interpretation and application may vary. However, they continue to hold significance as a traditional framework for understanding the different phases of life and the progression towards spiritual growth and enlightenment in ancient Indian teachings.
These are ancient principles, and perhaps worked fine in ancient times. Then how does one use these guidelines in today's world?
Here's how it could look:
- Brahmacharya (Student Stage): In modern times, the Brahmacharya stage can be seen as a period of education and skill development. Individuals, both young and old, can focus on acquiring knowledge, pursuing higher education, and developing vocational skills. This stage involves a commitment to learning, discipline, and personal growth. It can be a time for individuals to explore their interests, gain expertise in their chosen fields, and cultivate a strong foundation for the future.
- Grihastha (Householder Stage): The Grihastha stage pertains to building a family and contributing to society. In modern times, it involves establishing a career, starting a family, and actively participating in one's community. Balancing personal and professional responsibilities becomes crucial. Individuals can strive for harmonious relationships, support their families, contribute to social welfare, and maintain ethical conduct. The Grihastha stage encourages finding a meaningful balance between personal aspirations, familial obligations, and societal engagement.
- Vanaprastha (Retirement Stage): The Vanaprastha stage represents a gradual transition from active worldly pursuits to a more reflective and spiritually focused life. In modern times, it can be viewed as a phase of personal introspection, self-discovery, and a shift towards a more contemplative lifestyle. While retirement from work may be a part of this stage, it is more about redirecting one's energy towards personal growth, spiritual practices, and the pursuit of inner fulfillment. It can involve activities like meditation, yoga, engaging in social service, and sharing wisdom and experiences by mentoring younger generations.
- Sanyasa (Renunciate Stage): The Sanyasa stage traditionally involved complete renunciation of worldly attachments and dedicating oneself solely to spiritual pursuits. In modern times, it can be seen as a period of deepening spiritual exploration and detachment from material desires. While not everyone may adopt a renunciate lifestyle, individuals can still cultivate qualities of detachment, mindfulness, and focus on spiritual growth. This stage may involve a retreat or sabbatical to engage in intensive spiritual practices, seeking guidance from spiritual mentors, and contributing to the well-being of society through spiritual wisdom and teachings.
In modern times, individuals can adapt these stages to suit their personal circumstances and aspirations. It's important to understand that the stages are not strictly sequential, and there can be overlaps and variations depending on individual choices and life situations.
The essence lies in integrating the teachings of self-development, responsibility, and spiritual growth into daily life, ultimately leading to personal fulfillment and contributing positively to society.
By consciously incorporating elements from these ancient teachings, individuals in modern times can seek balance, purpose, and spiritual nourishment, fostering personal growth, and enhancing their overall well-being.
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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