Categories
About... Festivals Indian New Year Festivals Temples

What is Pana Sankranti?

What is Pana Sankranti? The Oriya or Odia New Year is called “Pana Sankranti” or “Maha Vishuba Sankranti” and it is celebrated on April 14th every year. Pana Sankranti is a major festival in the state of Odisha, India, and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy. The language spoken is Odia or Oriya. This […]

Categories
Historical Places Southern India Temples Travel

Brihadeeswara Temple: A Thousand-Year-Old Wonder

Travel back 1,000 years to the Brihadeeswara Temple in Tamil Nadu. Built by Raja Raja Chola I, this architectural masterpiece is as awe-inspiring today as it was in the 11th century.

Categories
About... Indian culture Indian Epics

What is Mahabharata?

What is the Mahabharata? Mahabharata is one of the two major Sanskrit epics of ancient India, the other being the Ramayana. It is a story of dynastic struggle and conflict between two sides of a royal family, the Kuru dynasty, the Pandavas and Kauravas – which leads to a great war. The Mahabharata is believed […]

Categories
About... Desi Food

What is Jaggery?

What is Jaggery? Jaggery is a traditional non-centrifugal cane sugar consumed in many parts of the world, especially in South Asia and Africa. What is Jaggery made of? Generally, it is made from sugarcane juice that is boiled down and then left to cool and solidify. Jaggery can also be made from date palm sap […]

Categories
About... Indian culture Things Desis Do Traditions

Brushing Teeth with Neem Twigs: Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern Science

Before plastic toothbrushes, people relied on nature for oral hygiene. In India, neem twigs were the original toothbrush—trusted for centuries in Ayurveda. But how did other cultures clean their teeth? Some methods may surprise you.

Categories
A Way of Life About... Desi Words or Terms Indian culture

What is Ayurveda?

What is Ayurveda? Traditional Indian medicinal sciences, also known as Ayurveda, have a rich cultural and historical background that goes back thousands of years. Ayurveda is considered to be one of the oldest systems of medicine in the world, and it originated in India around 5,000 years ago. The term “Ayurveda” is derived from the […]

Categories
A Way of Life About... Desi Health Desi Words or Terms Indian culture Traditions

What are Yoga and Meditation?

Explore the ancient practice of yoga, its origins, different styles, and its profound connection to meditation. Understand how yoga has evolved and its impact on physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

Categories
About... Indian culture Traditions

The Indian cultural secret to Great Customer Service

Great customer service is more than transactions—it’s about making people feel valued. India’s “Atithi Devo Bhava” philosophy treats guests like gods, a principle that translates perfectly into world-class customer service. Learn how Indian hospitality enhances business success.

Categories
About... Desi Words or Terms Indian culture Things Desis Do Traditions

What is Namaste?

Namaste means “I bow to you” and honors the divine within. Found in yoga, Indian culture, and beyond, it shares roots with greetings like Thailand’s wai and Japan’s bow. Explore its meaning and global significance!

Categories
About... Festivals

Sree Rama Navami

What is Sree Rama Navami? Sree Rama Navami is a Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Rama, who is believed to be the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is observed on the ninth day (navami) of the Chaitra month of the Hindu lunar calendar, which typically falls in March or April of […]