Religions Archives - Storytrails

Culture, Religions

Why do we celebrate Diwali? | The Festival of Lights

The festival of Diwali has many stories behind it. It is celebrated on different days, at different times and for different gods. But the common factor in each of these is the victory of good over evil. Here are some of the tales.

Culture, People, Places, Religions

Who are the village gods of Tamil Nadu? | Aiyanar, Mariamman

In a small village near Madurai, the village gods are quite unlike the Vedic gods. They may look fearsome and grim, but have colourful and human personalities. They are the go-to gods in case of any trouble, illness or grief. The ancient village gods of Tamil Nadu are the personal guardians of the village, the protectors of the people and have a specific role to play in the lives of Keezha Kuil Kudi village people.

History, Places, Religions

Ancient stone caskets that stored Buddha’s relics | Sanchi Stupa, India

Buddha died around 483 BCE. His remains were stored in 8 stone caskets. Emperor Ashoka had an idea – a vision to spread Buddhism through these relics. How did he do it? This story explores the journey of Buddha’s cremated remains from nearly 2500 years ago to locations that have become important Buddhist pilgrimage sites, one of which is the Sanchi Stupa.

History, People, Religions

When did Christianity come to India? | The story of St. Thomas | St. Thomas Basilica, Chennai

St Thomas, one of the apostles of Jesus travelled to India as early as 52 CE making India among the earliest places in the world where Christianity spread. This story explores his life and the beginnings of Christianity in India.

Culture, History, Religions

Bhandara Festival

The town of Jejuri in Maharashra is famous for the Bhandara festival, where devotees splash each other with turmeric.

People, Places, Religions

Guru Tegh Bahadur -The Martyr

This is the tragic story of Guru Tegh Bahadur, a Sikh Guru who died at the hands of Mughal emperor, Aurangzeb. Guru Tegh Bahadur died championing the cause of Kashmiri Pandits who were not even Sikhs, but Hindus!

Religions