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?)
The top question most folks have – do you eat curry?
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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.
Onam
Summary
Nestled in the southwestern corner of India lies the enchanting state of Kerala, a land renowned for its natural beauty, cultural richness, and vibrant festivals – often referred to as God’s own land. One such celebration that captivates the hearts of people of Kerala and visitors alike is Onam, a ten-day harvest festival that brings together tales of kings, Gods, cultural traditions, and a sumptuous feast that reflects the essence of Kerala’s spirit.
About Kerala
Kerala is a state in the southwest of India. It is located on the Malabar coast, which is bordered by the Arabian Sea to the west, Karnataka to the north and northeast, and Tamil Nadu to the east. The capital of Kerala is Thiruvananthapuram.
Kerala is known for its ecotourism initiatives, beautiful backwaters, and unique culture and traditions. It is also known as “God’s own Country”.
Kerala is a small state, making up only about 1 percent of India’s total area. It has a population of 30 million and a surface area of 38,900 km2. The majority language is Malayalam.
King Mahabali and Lord Vamana
At the heart of Onam lies the legend of King Mahabali and Lord Vamana (an avatar of Lord Vishnu). Mahabali, known for his just rule and devotion, attracted the attention of Lord Vishnu, who took the form of Vamana, a learned man but who is of a very small stature. Seeking alms, Vamana asked for three paces of land from the generous King Bali . The King grants his request. Vamana then grows to a giant and with his first two strides, he covered the earth and heavens. As there was no place for the third step, Mahabali offered his head and Vamana places his foot and pushes the king to the nether worlds. Impressed by his selflessness, Vamana granted him a boon to visit his kingdom once a year, a celebration that came to be known as Onam.
Ten Days of Onam
Onam spans ten days, each marked by unique rituals and festivities:
Onam: A Festival of 10 Days
Onam, the vibrant harvest festival of Kerala, unfolds over ten days, each brimming with its unique traditions, rituals, and cultural significance.
Day 1 – Atham
The festival commences with Atham, marked by the creation of a simple floral arrangement, “Pookkalam,” at the entrance of homes. It symbolizes the start of the festivities and encourages creativity and community engagement. This is a day of preparation. People clean their homes and decorate them with flowers. They also buy new clothes and food for the festival. This marks King Mahabali’s preparations to journey from Heaven to his earthly kingdom.
Day 2 – Chithira
Chithira signifies the essence of unity and the spirit of togetherness. The creation of Onam Pookkalam, a floral carpet, symbolizes this day’s festivities.Homes come alive with color as people contribute to the floral patterns. Pookkalam are made by women and children, and they are placed in front of homes and temples.
Day 3 – Chodhi
Another layer of flowers is added to the carpet, employing an assortment of four to five flower types. Families prepare for the days ahead by engaging in collective activities. This is a day of fasting and prayer. People pray for the well-being of their families and friends.
Day 4 – Vishakam
Vishakam sees the Pookkalam taking a more intricate form. The day holds a special significance as it marks the start of many cultural performances and events that continue throughout Onam. This is a day of celebration. People feast on traditional Onam dishes and enjoy cultural performances. This day launches various tournaments as part of the celebration.
Day 5 – Anizham
On Anizham, the Pookkalam continues to flourish with more complex designs. The festivities gain momentum, and various art forms like traditional dances and music performances grace the stages. On this day, people visit temples and offer prayers. Preparations for the grand boat race take place on this fifth day.
Day 6 – Thriketa
Thriketa witnesses a heightened enthusiasm as the Pookkalam becomes even more intricate and captivating. It’s a day of joy and excitement, as the community comes together to celebrate their shared cultural heritage. Festive celebrations are ignited on this day.
Day 7 – Moolam
As Moolam dawns, the Pookkalam reaches its zenith, showcasing the mastery of floral artistry. Traditional rituals and prayers are performed, reflecting the spiritual essence of Onam. Temples come alive with special pujas and rituals.
Day 8 – Pooradam
On Pooradam or Pooram, the excitement builds as families prepare for the upcoming boat races, “Vallamkali.” The highlight of the day is a grand procession of elephants and dancers. Idols of Vamana and King Mahabali are raised in homes to commemorate this day.
Day 9 – Uthradom
Uthradom, the penultimate day, is marked by intense preparations for the grand feast, “Onam Sadya.” Homes are cleaned, and ingredients are gathered for the culinary extravaganza. Mahabali’s symbolic entry into Kerala is observed. This is a day of homecoming. People believe that King Mahabali returns to Kerala on this day. They welcome him with a feast and prayers.
Day 10 – Thiru Onam
The pinnacle of Onam arrives with Thiru Onam or Thiruvonam. Homes are adorned with grand Pookkalams, and families don traditional attire. The day commences with rituals and prayers, followed by the grand Onam Sadya feast, where families and communities gather to savor the diverse flavors of Kerala’s cuisine. Cultural performances, games, and festivities mark the day, reminding everyone of the cultural unity and harmony that Onam symbolizes. The pinnacle of the celebration, this day sees the warm and reverential welcome of King Mahabali by the people of Kerala.
Onam Traditions
Pookkalam
This is a floral carpet made of fresh flowers arranged in intricate patterns on the floor. People start making pookkalam from Atham onwards, and add a new layer every day until Thiruvonam. The pookkalam symbolizes the welcome to King Mahabali and also showcases the artistic talent of the people.
Vallamkali
On the Pampa River, traditional boat races called “Vallamkali” are held, reflecting Kerala’s maritime heritage and unity. This boat race takes place on the backwaters of Kerala. The boats are long and narrow, and can accommodate up to 100 rowers.
The rowers wear white mundu (a traditional garment) and colorful turbans, and sing songs to synchronize their movements. The boat race is a spectacle of speed, skill, and teamwork.
Onakalikal
Traditional games such as tug-of-war, archery, and martial arts competitions engage participants and spectators.
Kayyikali is one of the famous sport – where the opponents use fists. This is quite brutal but popular. Usually has two teams. Read more here.
Sadya
This is a grand feast served on a banana leaf, consisting of various vegetarian dishes – including “Avial” (mixed vegetable stew), “Sambhar” (lentil stew with seasonal vegetables and spices), “Parippu” (lentil dish), rice, pickles, papadum, and payasam (a sweet dessert). Sadya is usually eaten with hands, and is considered a highlight of Onam. People invite their friends and relatives for sadya, and enjoy the food and company. The harmonious blend of flavors mirrors Kerala’s multicultural landscape.
Thiruvathirakali
This is a dance performed by women, dressed in white sarees with golden borders. They form a circle around a lamp or a floral decoration, and sway gracefully to the rhythm of a song. The dance is dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati, and expresses the love and devotion of women towards their husbands.
PuliKali
This is a folk art that involves men painting their bodies as tigers and leopards, and dancing to the beats of drums. The performers wear masks and costumes, and mimic the movements of wild animals. The pulikali is a fun and colorful way to entertain the crowds.
Onathappan
This is a clay pyramid that represents King Mahabali or Lord Vishnu. It is placed in the center of the pookalam, and worshipped with flowers, fruits, and incense. On Thiruvonam day, the onathappan is immersed in water, as a farewell to King Mahabali.
Onam’s Cultural Significance
Onam symbolizes the spirit of unity and togetherness, across all classes of society. The festival underscores Kerala’s agrarian roots, where the harvest is celebrated as a community effort. People from all walks of life come together to partake in the festivities, reinforcing the essence of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” the world as one family.
Onam Beyond Kerala
As the Indian diaspora spreads across the world, so does the spirit of Onam. Indians of Kerala origin living outside the state organize celebrations that bring a taste of Kerala’s traditions and flavors to distant shores.
Onam, with its legends, intricate floral carpets, boat races, and grand feasts, offers a window into Kerala’s cultural ethos. It encapsulates the colorful tapestry of this enchanting land and serves as a testament to unity, harmony, and the enduring ties that bind its people.
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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.
Sarangapani Temple Kumbhakonam
The name Sarangapani (“one who has the bow in his hand”) derives from the Sanskrit word Sarangam meaning bow of Vishnu and pani meaning hand. (Source Wikipedia)
For more information check the temple website or Wikipedia
The Sarangapani Temple is a famous temple located in the town of Kumbakonam in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is considered to be one of the most important temples in the region.
The Sarangapani temple is one of the few ancient temples in India that is still active and has been functioning for over 1000 years.
The temple is believed to have been built during the 12th century by the Chola kings and has undergone several renovations and additions over the centuries. The temple has a beautiful architecture and is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures.
The main deity of the temple is Lord Sarangapani, a form of Lord Vishnu, who is depicted in a standing posture with his consorts Sridevi and Bhudevi. The temple also has shrines dedicated to other deities like Lord Rama, Lord Hanuman, and Goddess Lakshmi.
The temple is a popular pilgrimage site and attracts thousands of devotees every year. The annual Brahmotsavam festival, which is celebrated in the Tamil month of Panguni (March-April), is a major event at the temple and draws large crowds.
The Sarangapani Temple is a must-visit destination for those interested in temples and historical architecture, and is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu.
Here are some interesting facts about the Sarangapani temple:
- The temple has a unique feature of having two separate sanctums for Lord Sarangapani and Goddess Komalavalli. This is unusual as most Hindu temples have a single sanctum for the main deity.
- The temple is one of the few ancient temples in India that is still active and has been functioning for over 1000 years.
- The temple is renowned for its stunning architecture, which features intricate carvings, beautiful sculptures, and exquisite frescoes.
- The temple is believed to have been visited by several great saints and scholars, including Adi Shankaracharya, who is said to have composed a hymn in praise of Lord Sarangapani.
- The temple is also famous for its annual float festival, which takes place in the Tamil month of Thai (January-February) and involves a procession of beautifully decorated floats on the temple tank.
- The temple is said to have been originally built by the Chola dynasty, but was later expanded and renovated by various rulers, including the Nayaks and Marathas.
- The temple has several unique features, including a special shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the form of a reclining posture, which is rare in South Indian temples.
- The temple has been declared a protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India and is considered an important cultural and historical site in India.
The term Desi can refer to people of Indian subcontinent origin or ancestry, or it can refer to the cultural practices and products of the region.
Desi food, will include dishes such as biryani, Pongal, samosas, Dosa, Idli, Parantha, Chawal and dal, while Desi fashion may feature traditional clothing styles like sarees, salwar kameez, Dhoti, and kurta pajama.
Desi music may include traditional folk music (dozens of styles), classical music (also several distinct schools), traditional dance (several traditional and ancient styles) and popular movie or music genres like Bollywood, Tollywood, Kollywood, Mollywood (all different regional language film industry names – a play on the word Hollywood).
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