Culture

Culture, Mythology

Seven Mythical Creatures of India

India’s bestiary of mythical creatures is as rich, varied and diverse as its multitude of art forms, cultural artefacts and storytelling traditions. Read on to meet (from afar) seven marvellous, monstrous creatures from Indian myth and folklore from around the country that are sure to send shivers down your spine.

Culture, Religions

Of Diwali and Deepavali

The festival of Diwali unites most communities in India in joyful celebration. But did you know that different communities have different reasons to celebrate it?

Culture, Places, Religions

Why Is Diwali Not a Festival for Some Hindu Communities?

Diwali, or the ‘festival of lights’ is one of the most popular festivals in India. There are many myths and legends associated with it, and different regions in India celebrate it in different ways and for different reasons. But did you know that there are certain Hindu communities that don’t celebrate it?

Culture, History, People

Ponniyin Selvan and a Thousand-Year-Old Murder Mystery

Kalki Krishnamurthy’s magnum opus, Ponniyin Selvan, is a masterpiece in historical fiction. Based on the real events surrounding Raja Raja Chola's accession to the throne, the novel serves up an enticing concoction of espionage, deceit, desire and valour, topped with an ancient murder mystery. What is the real story? And can truth really be stranger than fiction?

Culture, History, People

Rembrandt’s Mughals

The Dutch painter Rembrandt is considered one of the masters of the Dutch Golden Age of painting. Among his paintings is a portrait of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. But Rembrandt had never met Shah Jahan. So how did he paint him? Here's the story.

Culture, History, Mythology, Religions

A Story of Two Indian Festivals

The Varaha Mandapa, a 7th century rock-cut cave temple in Mamallapuram, is home to many fascinating tales set in stone. One of the most spectacular panels in the cave features the Trivikrama or Vamana avatar of Vishnu, in which he defeats the demon king Mahabali. This epic tale also happens to be the origin story of Onam, the harvest festival of Kerala.

Culture, History, People, Places

Umayamma Rani: The Fierce Queen of Kerala

At a time when only men ruled, and women had little or no power, a queen, let alone a powerful one, was an exception. But in the late 1600s, the most formidable and respected ruler in Kerala was a queen.

Culture, Religions

A Story of Two Indian Festivals

Rakhsha Bandhan, or Rakhi, is a popular festival in north India. Onam is the most important festival for the state of Kerala in south India. One celebrates the special bond between brothers and sisters; the other celebrates the return of a much-loved king. But what connects these two completely different festivals?

Culture

Orange Oakleaf Butterfly

Did you know that India recently elected a National Butterfly?

Culture, History, Places, Religions

The Buddhist Relics of Amaravati | Egmore Museum, Chennai

The 2000 year old Amaravati marbles at the Egmore Museum in Chennai are the remnants of a Buddhist stupa built by the mighty Satavahana kings. Who were these Hindu kings that created such beautiful Buddhist art? What does a small statue of Hercules sitting amidst Buddhist relics at the Museum tell us about the evolution of Buddhism? Watch this video to know all this and more!

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