By Desis, for Desis and Everyone Else!!
What’s a Desi?
The term “desi” is a term that is commonly used by people from the Indian subcontinent to refer to themselves or other people (origin or ancestry) from the region.
The word “Desi” is derived from the Sanskrit word “desh,” which means “country” or “region” or “homeland”. (‘Sanskrit’ word ‘Desh’? What is Sanskrit?)
Did you ever wonder:
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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 the Bhagavad Gita?
The Srimad Bhagawad Gita, also known as the Bhagavad Gita, is a 700-verse epic that forms a part of the Indian epic, the Mahabharata. It is a conversation between Prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna, who serves as his charioteer and mentor. Set on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, the story unfolds as Arjuna finds himself paralyzed by doubt and moral dilemma before the great war.
The Bhagawad Gita is not a religious text per se, it a text followed religiously in India; it is a practical guide to life. It addresses the fundamental questions of existence, duty, and the nature of reality. Through an intricate blend of philosophy, ethics, and practical wisdom, it offers insights into how we can live an empowered and fulfilling life, while remaining connected to our higher self.
What do the words “Bhagawad” and “Gita” mean?
Bhagawad: The term “Bhagawad” (or “Bhagavad” in more common transliteration) is derived from the Sanskrit word “Bhagavan”, which translates to “the divine one” or “the lord”. In the context of the Bhagavad Gita, it refers to Lord Krishna, who is considered a divine incarnation or an avatar of Lord Vishnu. The use of “Bhagawad” in the title signifies the text’s focus on the teachings and insights provided by this divine being.
Gita: The word “Gita” simply means “song” in Sanskrit. The word “Gita” in Sanskrit also has a broader connotation than just “song”. While it is often translated as “song”, which reflects its poetic and rhythmic quality, “Gita” in this context refers to “word”, “speech”, or “message”.
So the Bhagawad Gita is essentially a conversation, or a divine discourse, where Lord Krishna imparts spiritual wisdom and guidance to Prince Arjuna. Therefore, the Bhagavad Gita can be thought of as the “Divine Message” or “Divine Speech”.
1. The Essence of the Bhagavad Gita
At the core of the Gita is a profound, universal message applicable to people from all walks of life. It addresses the moral and philosophical dilemmas faced by Arjuna, who stands torn between his duty (Dharma) as a warrior and his moral qualms about fighting his own kin. The Gita, through Krishna’s words, offers guidance not just to Arjuna but to all of us on how to confront and resolve life’s challenges and dilemmas.
2. Krishna and Arjuna: A Timeless Dialogue
The conversation between Krishna and Arjuna is symbolic of the eternal dialogue between the divine and the human spirit. Krishna, as Arjuna’s charioteer, imparts wisdom on various aspects of life, from duty and righteousness to devotion and spirituality. This dialogue transcends time and culture, offering a blueprint for living a life of balance, purpose, and insight.
3. Dharma: The Ethical Compass
Dharma, a key concept in the Gita, represents duty, righteousness, and moral order. It’s about making choices that align with one’s true nature and the greater good. The Gita encourages us to live a life of Dharma, emphasizing the importance of ethical living and moral responsibility.
4. The Gita as a Practical Guide to Life
The Bhagavad Gita is not just a theoretical treatise but a practical guide to living. It speaks to everyday issues and dilemmas, offering a framework for decision-making that balances personal desires with ethical considerations. The Gita teaches us how to live a life that is both meaningful and fulfilling.
5. Philosophy, Ethics, and Practical Wisdom
The Gita’s teachings encompass a wide range of topics, from the nature of reality to the path to self-realization. It provides a comprehensive view of life, blending philosophical depth with ethical guidelines and practical advice. The wisdom of the Gita helps us navigate the complexities of life with greater clarity and purpose.
6. Living an Empowered and Fulfilling Life
The Bhagavad Gita offers invaluable lessons on how to live an empowered life. It teaches us how to face challenges with courage, make decisions with wisdom, and live with a sense of purpose. The Gita shows us how to remain connected to our higher self amid life’s trials and tribulations.
Five Key Takeaways from the Gita
- Duty and Right Action (Dharma):
- Concept: The Gita emphasizes the importance of performing one’s duty (dharma) and right action without attachment to the results.
- Example: Consider a college student or a young professional focused on their studies or career. The Gita teaches to put in the best effort without being overly fixated on grades or promotions. The focus should be on the process and learning, rather than just the end result.
- Mindfulness and Self-Control:
- Concept: The Gita speaks about controlling the mind and senses to achieve inner peace and clarity.
- Example: In an age of constant digital distractions and social media, practicing mindfulness means consciously spending time away from screens, meditating, or engaging in activities that bring mental peace and presence, like hiking or yoga.
- The Concept of Detachment:
- Concept: The Gita advises detachment from the fruits of one’s actions – to act without a selfish desire for personal gain.
- Example: Imagine working on a group project or contributing to a community service. The idea is to contribute your best without being solely driven by personal credit or recognition, but for the greater good of the team or community.
- The Impermanence of Life:
- Concept: The Gita teaches that life is transient and that one should not be overly attached to the material world.
- Example: This can be understood in the context of not getting too caught up in material pursuits like luxury items or social status. It’s about finding value in experiences, relationships, and personal growth.
- Self-Realization and Inner Journey:
- Concept: The Gita places great emphasis on the journey towards self-realization, understanding one’s true self beyond the physical body and mind.
- Example: For a young adult, this could mean exploring personal passions and values, understanding one’s identity and purpose beyond societal labels and expectations, perhaps through travel, introspection, and engaging with diverse cultures and philosophies.
Conclusion
The Bhagavad Gita, with its timeless wisdom, remains a beacon of light guiding us towards a life of meaning, purpose, and fulfillment. It encourages us to live authentically, uphold our duties, and stay connected to our higher self. As a practical guide to life, the Gita offers a path to not only understanding the deeper aspects of existence but also living a life that is truly empowered and fulfilling.
Southern Spices
What about Southern Masalas?
South Indian cuisine also uses a variety of spice blends or masalas, but they are different from the garam masala used in Northern Indian cuisine. Here are some examples of South Indian masalas or spice blends used – and their usage varies and can be quite different than how garam masala is used in other cuisines:
Sambar powder – A mix of spices used with lentils:
This is a spice blend used to make sambar, a lentil-based vegetable stew that is a staple in South Indian cuisine.
The blend typically includes coriander seeds, cumin seeds, black peppercorns, dried red chilies, fenugreek seeds, mustard seeds, turmeric, and curry leaves.
Sambar powder varies from region to region, and can be made with different proportions of these ingredients. This blend of spices comes to life only when it’s added to cooked yellow lentils or toor dal and a medley of seasonal vegetables.
This dish is a daily staple is usually a part of breakfast (served with Idli, Dosa, Vada, Pongal etc.) and lunch (with rice of course) in most South Indian states like – Kerala, Karnataka, Tamilnadu, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Click here to try some sambar or sambhar powder (try the MTR brand they are famous) and here for yellow lentils or toor dal. If you just want to get a mix with the sambhar powder and some lentils in it – check this out.
Rasam Powder – a mix of spices for tomato or tamarind:
This is a spice blend used to make rasam, a tangy South Indian soup like preparation (and eaten with rice) that is often served as a palate cleanser between courses. The blend typically includes coriander seeds, cumin seeds, black peppercorns, dried red chilies, mustard seeds, turmeric, and curry leaves.
Rasam powder can also vary from region to region. Rasam is made with either boiling a lot of tomatoes or some tamarind paste (pulp removed) to add the tanginess after the rasam powder is added and sauted. (The mix packets will have instructions)
Check out these Mixes. (try the MTR can’t go wrong with them)
And there are more of course. We are not done yet 🙂
Bisi bele bath powder – a mix for spicy lentil rice:
Bath is not a place in the UK or somewhere to bathe – bath means rice in Kannada (Spoken in Karnataka) and Marathi (Spoken in Maharashtra) Now you know the word for rice in two languages.
And Bisi is hot since it’s served hot, and Bele means lentils – both words are from Kannada.
This is a spice blend used to make bisi bele bath, a rice dish that is popular in Karnataka. The blend typically includes coriander seeds, cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds, mustard seeds, peppercorns, cinnamon, cloves, and dry red chilies.
The masala or powdered mix needs to be added to yellow lentils (after the lentils are cooked) and then this spicy mix is added to hot steaming rice and mixed.
Try one of these Bisibele bath powders and check here if you want some yellow lentils or toor dal.
Chettinadu masala – A mix of spices from chettinad:
This is a spice blend used in Chettinadu cuisine, which comes from the Chettinadu region of Tamil Nadu. It typically includes dried red chilies, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, black peppercorns, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and star anise. Chettinadu masala is known for its spicy and aromatic flavor.
Try some Chettinadu masala when you make some chicken.
These are just a few examples of the many different spice blends used in South Indian cuisine. The exact blend of spices used can vary depending on the region and the cook, but they are all important for adding flavor and complexity to South Indian dishes.
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.
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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