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Showing posts from January, 2025

Who is Meldi Maa?

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  This is an article about Meldi Maa, a Hindu goddess. It discusses her legend, her iconography, and her temples. Meldi Maa is a local, folk goddess of Gujarat, mainly worshipped in Saurashtra, western Gujarat, as the protector of farmlands and peoples. She is believed to have been created by dirt from the hands of Goddess Uma. She is often depicted riding a goat with eight hands. Devotees seek her blessings for success in their travels, especially to the United States. The article also mentions that Meldi Maa is a popular subject in Mata ni Pachedi, a Gujarati folk art form. Sources and related content: https://www.exoticindiaart.com/article/who-is-meldi-maa/

Pattachitra: An Ancient Folk Art that Reflects the Ethos of India

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  This is a blog about Pattachitra paintings. It discusses the history of Pattachitra paintings, techniques, and styles of Pattachitra and answers some of the commonly asked questions related to this unique folk art from Eastern India. Pattachitra paintings are a type of scroll painting that originated in the 8th century AD. The term Pattachitra is derived from the Sanskrit words patta, which means canvas, and Chitra, which means painting. Pattachitra paintings are typically made with natural colors and depict Hindu deities, mythological stories, and folklore. Pattachitra paintings are an important part of Odia culture and are often used in religious ceremonies. Sources and related content: https://www.exoticindiaart.com/blog/pattachitra-an-ancient-folk-art-that-reflects-the-ethos-of-india/

Tanjore Painting : Art of the Gods

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This is a blog about Tanjore paintings. It discusses the history, technique, and materials of Tanjore painting. Tanjore paintings are a form of South Indian visual art that began in Tanjore in the 16th century. They are characterized by their depiction of Hindu deities, bright colors, iconic compositions, architectural framing, gold foil, inlays of beads and precious or semi-precious gems, gesso undercoat, and painted on wooden planks. Sources and related content: https://www.exoticindiaart.com/blog/tanjore-painting-art-of-the-gods

Skanda – The War God Son of Shiva

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This is a blog about Skanda, the Hindu god of war. It discusses his history, iconography, and stories. Skanda is the son of Shiva and Parvati. He is known for his battle with the demon Tarakasura. He is also associated with wisdom and is worshipped for protection and bravery. His most popular icons depict him as a six-headed god. He is often shown with his wives Devasena and Valli. Sources and related content: Skanda – The War God Son of Shiva - Exotic India Art www.exoticindiaart.com

Kurma (Turtle) : Lord Vishnu's Second Incarnation (Avatar)

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  The article on the Kurma Avatar describes Lord Vishnu's second incarnation as a tortoise. This form emerged to support Mount Mandara during the churning of the ocean, aiding the gods in obtaining the nectar of immortality. Kurma, as a symbol of endurance and stability, played a crucial role in maintaining balance during this cosmic event. The story highlights the importance of Vishnu's various avatars in preserving cosmic order. Source and related content: https://www.exoticindiaart.com/article/kurma-avatar-lord-vishnu-second-incarnation/

Why We Say “Swaha” in Havan or During Pooja

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All of us would have noticed that at the end of each mantra the priests say something known as Swaha. Whenever there is a Yagna done it believed to be uncomplete without pronouncing the word ‘Swaha’. In a Yagna, some Gods are named and called and pledged to the fire by offering foods and other necessary items. The fire consumes it and transfers to the specific Gods to the direction related with them. In the Hindu pantheon, Fire is recognised as the Godi of Agni. This deity is one of the Vedic deities and was among the Supreme deities worshiped at the time. He is called twin brother of Indra and the husband of goddess Swaha. They felt that during the early periods of creation the Gods had some slight difficulties for there was no allowance made for them to eat. This was making them weak. This is when there was the penance of Brahma along Kagthaan gawdi of Goddess Adi Shakti. He asked her for a solution. The goddess exposed that all that will be offered to the holy fire during the Yagna...

Discovering the Hidden Meanings: Vahanas of Hindu Deities

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Vahanas are special animals or vehicles which are typically associated with each god or goddess in Hindu mythology. These vehicles are not just animals that the deity rides on but depict aspects of the deity’s character, function in the universe, and power. Let's explore some prominent examples: •  Lord Ganesha and the Mouse (Mushak) The most famous Hindu deity,  Ganesha  who has an elephant head and four arms, sits on a mouse. This is to signify that no matter how tiny one is, he or she can rise above odds and be great. It also warns the audience that during battle, the ego is the single biggest and most dangerous foe that can be faced. •  Lord Shiva and the Bull (Nandi) Nandi, the divine cow is the vehicle of  Lord Shiva  – the destroyer and the changer. The bull symbolizes power, masculinity fidelity, and loyalty. It also represents virtue of strength and the capacity to go through the game of life vicissitudes. •  Lord Vishnu and the Garuda Garuda,...

Lesser Known Celebrations of Makar Sankranti: From Jammu to Karnataka

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This is a blog about Makar Sankranti. It discusses the different ways it is celebrated in India. Some ways it is celebrated include Sakaraat in Haryana, Attarani in Jammu, Suggi in Karnataka, Hangarai in Tripura, and Tirmoori in Pakistan. Sources and related content: https://www.exoticindiaart.com/blog/lesser-known-celebrations-of-makar-sankranti-from-jammu-to-karnataka/

Traditions of Sun Worship in Hinduism : आदिदेव नमस्तुभ्यं

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This article is about the traditions of sun worship in Hinduism. It discusses the history of sun worship in Hinduism, from the Vedic period to today. The article also discusses the different forms of the sun god Surya and the various festivals and rituals associated with sun worship. The most important festivals associated with sun worship include Makar Sankranti and Chhath Puja. Sources and related content: https://www.exoticindiaart.com/article/adi-deva-namastubhyam-traditions-of-sun-worship-in-hinduism

Maha Kumbh 2025 । महा कुंभ मेला 2025

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महाकुंभ- यह हर 144 साल में एक बार होने वाला आयोजन है! यह हिंदू आस्था, परंपरा और एकता का ऐसा उत्सव है जैसा कोई और नहीं है। दुनिया भर से तीर्थयात्रियों को आकर्षित करने वाला यह पवित्र मेला 2025 में तीर्थराज (तीर्थों के राजा) प्रयाग में होने वाला है। जैसे-जैसे शहर और दुनिया इस अनोखे मेले में भाग लेने की तैयारी कर रही है, आइए हम आपको महाकुंभ और कुंभ के इतिहास, महत्व और उत्सव की यात्रा पर ले चलते हैं। Source and related content: https://www.exoticindiaart.com/article/all-about-maha-kumbha-mela-2025/

Worshipping the Sun : Makara Sankranti Tradition Across India

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This is a blog about the Hindu festival of Makara Sankranti. It discusses the festival's origins and how it is celebrated in different regions of India. The festival is celebrated with food, dance, and prayer. Sources and related content: Worshipping the Sun : Makara Sankranti Tradition Across India www.exoticindiaart.com

Matsya Avatar: Vishnu's Fish Incarnation, the First of the Dashavatara

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The Matsya Avatar is the first of Lord Vishnu's ten incarnations (Dashavatara) in Hindu mythology. In this form, Vishnu appears as a fish to save the sacred Vedas and humanity from a great deluge. The narrative describes how a demon named Hayagriva stole the Vedas from Brahma, leading Vishnu to take the Matsya form to retrieve them. He also warns King Satyavrata (Manu) of an impending flood, advising him to build a boat and gather all species to preserve life. When the deluge occurs, Matsya guides the boat by tying it to his horn, ensuring the safety of the Vedas and living beings, and ultimately restoring cosmic order. Source and related content: https://www.exoticindiaart.com/article/matsya-avatar/

How to Style Indian Shawls this Winter?

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Indian shawls, including Pashmina, Kani, Jamawar, and Kullu, are timeless winter accessories that combine warmth with elegance. These shawls can be styled versatilely, such as draping over both shoulders, wrapping around the neck, or cinching with a belt for a structured look. Vibrant designs like Kani and Jamawar add a touch of luxury, while Kullu shawls with geometric patterns offer a casual appeal. Heavier fabrics like velvet or silk dupattas enhance traditional outfits, and shawls can serve as head coverings in cold weather. These styling tips make Indian shawls a perfect addition to any winter wardrobe. Source and related content: How to Style Indian Shawls this Winter?

From Pashminas to Paper Mache: What Makes Kashmir Heaven on Earth

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This is a blog about the beauty of Kashmir. It discusses the history of the phrase "heaven on earth" and how it is associated with Kashmir. The author travels to Kashmir to learn about the crafts of the region, including Pashmina weaving, Kani, Aari, and Sozni shawls, paper mache work, and carpet weaving. The author discovers that the true beauty of Kashmir lies in the spirit of its people and their dedication to their crafts. The author concludes that Kashmir is a true heaven on earth. Sources and related content: From Pashminas to Paper Mache : What Makes Kashmir Heaven on ... www.exoticindiaart.com