Archive for 'Uncategorized'
Kumauni Holi Posted by kunthra on Mar 20, 2011
In the Indian state of Uttarakhand (उत्तराखण्ड), there is a district called Kumaon (कुमाऊं). The people of this district celebrate a lively festival called Kumauni Holi (कुमाँऊनी होली). The townspeople celebrate Kumauni Holi with joyous singing and dancing that is accompanied by music. The Kumauni Holi is a joyous occasion because it signifies the coming…
Hindu Temples Posted by kunthra on Mar 17, 2011
Hindu temples in India are as countless as the stars in the sky, but only a few temples manage to stand out above the rest. Dakshineswar Kali Temple is located in the Indian state of West Bengal. It is about thirty meters high and was built to honor the Hindu goddess Kali. Kali is the…
Lathmar Holi Posted by kunthra on Mar 14, 2011
Lathmar Holi (लट्ठमार होली) is a festival that takes place in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh (उत्तर प्रदेश). In Uttar Pradesh there is a small town called Barsana (बरसाना). Every year in a festival called Lathmar Holi, wives beat their husbands with sticks called Lathi (लाठी). The only protection that the husbands have is…
Theyyam Posted by kunthra on Mar 12, 2011
Theyyam is a generic name for a deity that is worshipped in the Indian state of Kerala. These rituals are often held in front of temples in front of a crowd. An individual will play the part of the deity with decorated masks and makeup. Then the individual will dance to the music or perform…
Goan Food Posted by kunthra on Mar 3, 2011
The Indian state of Goa is one of the most interesting regions in India. Goa is an area that was under Portuguese rule in the 1500s. As a result, the Goan region is a mixture of Portuguese and Goan influences. These Portuguese influences can be seen in the Goan culture and cuisine. For instance, Vindaloo…
Holy Cities of India Posted by kunthra on Feb 28, 2011
There are several Indian cities that are considered holy cities. These cities are widely visited by religious pilgrims and tourists from all over the world. Kanchipuram has been dubbed the city of temples because there are at least one hundred and sixteen temples in this city alone. Kanchipuram was also an important center of learning…
Indian Forts Posted by kunthra on Feb 27, 2011
In various parts of India, there are still the strongholds of old forts that have guarded its owners in times of battle. Many of these forts are impressive and contain large and sprawling estates. Gingee Fort is located in Tamil Nadu. The Gingee Fort was built in the 9th century and was famous for fending…