Indian traditions

Five Indian sweets that are nothing short of a piece of art

Five Indian sweets that are nothing short of a piece of art

August 24, 2020

Indian desserts, especially traditional sweets, are any sweet tooth foodie’s dream come true. The sweet taste is not the only part of the food or sweet one cherishes; it is also the way an edible looks. In fact, many sweets in India have also been recognised for their artistic ...

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The tale of Mathura’s Govardhan Hill

The tale of Mathura’s Govardhan Hill

August 10, 2018

According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna protected the residents of Govardhan in Uttar Pradesh (north India) from harsh rains and thunderstorms by lifting the Govardhan Hill on his finger. Today, people from various parts of the world visit the place to circumambulate the hill,...

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Why and when do Indians fast?

Why and when do Indians fast?

September 23, 2017

Certain religious periods in India, see people go on a vrat or fast, but these fasting days are not without thought, just like the diets.

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The art of Kalamezhuthu from Kerala

The art of Kalamezhuthu from Kerala

May 16, 2017

A temple art, the vivid drawings of the Kalamezhuthu are a representation of the beliefs of the people from the south Indian state of Kerala, where it is crafted and celebrated.

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Paan: A traditional Indian mouth freshener

Paan: A traditional Indian mouth freshener

March 15, 2017

Consumption of paan after meals is a traditional habit in India that is still followed in many cultures. Credit to its refreshing and medicinal properties, it never went out of fashion. But, the fads that have followed it are exotic, creative and even adventurous.

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Turtuk – where digital mail didn’t replace postal letters

Turtuk – where digital mail didn’t replace postal letters

March 10, 2017

As modern technologies and western influences have found a place even in the most isolated parts of India, there are some places that still hold on to the traditional communication mediums and preserve the old India. Turtuk in Ladakh is one of them.

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Goa’s fascinating Shigmo Festival

Goa’s fascinating Shigmo Festival

March 2, 2017

The western Indian state of Goa, a major tourist destination, is geared up to host the annual Shigmo Festival - a celebration of traditions and history through the eyes cultures and colours.

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The Charm of Mother’s Market in Manipur

The Charm of Mother’s Market in Manipur

February 20, 2017

A unique commercial complex, the Mother’s Market has been functioning for 500 years in Imphal, the capital city of the north-eastern Indian state, Manipur. Run entirely by women, it is a marketplace rooted in history and speaking of women empowerment.

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How healthy are pickles?

How healthy are pickles?

February 18, 2017

Part of various food cultures around the world, the good old pickle or 'aachar' has more to it than flavours and fragrance. A bottle of preserved vegetables in oil or vinegar alongside salt and spices, 'aachar' has a host of health benefits.

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Saffron: An ancient Indian medicine

Saffron: An ancient Indian medicine

February 17, 2017

It is often brought to use on special occasions and ceremonies as part of culture and cuisine. But saffron or kesar also has medicinal characteristics, making this precious, ancient Indian spice a healing agent.

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Guarding the artwork from Kutch

Guarding the artwork from Kutch

December 27, 2016

This art preservation centre is working towards conserving and propagating artwork from India’s largest district, Kutch. Referred to as Kutchi work, the distinctive thread and mirror work is unique to this part of India but is slowly loosening its ends to other places.

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Country liquor from Goa now to be a ‘heritage spirit’

Country liquor from Goa now to be a ‘heritage spirit’

August 10, 2016

Traditional, hand-crafted drink Feni is to India what champagne is to France and it is now to become a ‘heritage spirit’ and not be limited to the title ‘country liquor’ from Goa.

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