Archery in India

 Archery in India is one among the prime ancient sports. Conventionally, the game has been associated with warrior-ship and kingship and it was an important requirement expected in the battle field. Though, it was mainly used in hunting and combat in the ancient times, archery has become a precision sport in the modern times. Young potential archery talents like Tarundeep Rai, Jayant Talukdar and Rahul Banerjee have made India proud at the big stage. With international and national awards and recognition pouring thick and fast, India is slowly coming up as a powerhouse in archery.

In the present scenario the game has found new takers and is gaining popularity among people of India. With the introduction of new, improved and sophisticated equipments under the strict supervision of Archery Association of India (AAI), the game has reached wider section of the masses.

History of Archery in India
The history of Archery in India dates back to the Vedic Period. During this time, bows and arrows were used for the purposes of hunting and gathering food. It was of immense importance in ancient India and this is testified to by the fact that the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, two massive sagas of royal lineages, are filled with passages that describe the techniques of archery, and the attitudes and customs surrounding its practice.

In the medieval period also, Archery was played quite extensively in India. Archery continued to be practised in the Indian palaces up through the end of the nineteenth century. In modern times, Archery has already made its way to the Olympic Games, as well.

Both steel and brass bows were used by members of royal families in competition during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Steel bows have a long history in India, as very early texts make mention of steel bows. By the time of the Mughal period (beginning mid-1500s), steel bows that were highly decorated, sometimes with gold and silver inlay, were fixtures in royal households.

Technique of Archery
Archery is a sport played with the two basic instruments of the bow and arrow. In this sport, the players use the bow to shoot arrows and hit targets. The target is made of a special grass species. The measurement of the target is approximately 8-10 inches in height and 3 inches in diameter and it remains attached to a thin bamboo pole at a height of 3 1/2 ft above ground level. An indentation is also created at the bottom of the pole. If the arrow of any player in an Archery game hits the target below this mark created, the player does not get any points. While playing, the players take aim at the target from a distance of 30 meters. The person who plays and practices the game of archery is called as an Archer.

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Temples of Rajasthan

 

Rajasthan popularly known as the incredible land is famous for its collection of temples. The architectural magnificence of the temples in Rajasthan is well known and adds to the incredibility of the land. The excellent sculptures of the Rajasthan temples reflect the artistic magnificence that was prevalent in the state during the early days. The artistic spirit of the Rajasthan temples is actually a testimony to the aesthetic artistic talent that prevailed in the state.

Architecture of Rajasthan Temples
The intricately carved temples of Rajasthan can easily marvel a visitor and the state can almost be called a paradise of architecture. Not only the gallant warriors have beautified the desert land of Rajasthan with forts and palaces but they have also expressed their spirituality by constructing temples which stand as wonderful symbols of architecture. Till date these temples are drawing large number of visitors. The architectural movement from 8th century to 11th century had influenced Rajasthan to a large extent. The temple architecture that flourished in the state of Rajasthan during that time reflected a love for beauty and nature and the adoration of beauty was reflected by the images of voluptuous feminine figures.

Hindu and Jain Temples of Rajasthan
Hinduism and Jainism were both influential in Rajasthan and they are the predominant religions of this state. As a result, the beliefs and faiths of Hinduism as well as Jainism are reflected to a larger extent through the architectural constructs of Rajasthan. The feelings of devotion, bliss, rites, rituals, superstitions and sacrifice, all amalgamate in the magnificent temples of Rajasthan.

Brahma Temple
The Brahma Temple is located in Pushkar. It is dedicated to the Hindugod of creation, Lord Brahma. One will be able to see the idol of the sacred Goose at the entrance of this temple. The sacred Goose is recognized as the vahana of Lord Brahma. This temple is made of marble and silver coins bedeck its interior.

Eklingji Temple
Eklingji Temple is located in the town of Kailashpuri, about 22 kilometers from Udaipur on national highway 8. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The most noteworthy aspect of this temple is the four-faced idol of Eklingji (Lord Shiva) that is made of black marble. This figure has a height of about 50 feet and the four faces depict the four aspects of Lord Shiva. Shivratri is the festival celebrated in this temple. This temple also has idols of Goddess Saraswati and Yamuna and Lord Ganesha and Kartikeya. It can be said that the Eklingji temple symbolizes Hindu faith and belief through its architecture.

Varah Temple
Varah Temple is located in Pushkar. This temple is dedicated to Varah (wild boar), an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This temple was built in the 12th century by a king named, Anaji Chauhan. It is known that this temple was subjected to destruction and renovated several times. Varah Temple serves as a home to a huge white idol of Lord Varaha along with carvings, sculptures, gold styled pillars depicting Garuda, the mythical bird and life-size statues of door men. Varah Temple is considered to be one of the largest and oldest temples in Pushkar.

Karni Mata Temple
Karni Mata Temple is situated in Bikaner. It is also known by the other name of Nari Mata Temple and is dedicated to Karni Mata, an incarnation of goddess Durga. In the temple, one will be able to see the idol of Karni Mata wielding a trishul (trident) in her hand. A plethora of rats will be evident to the visitors in this temple. These rats move freely in the temple and are believed to be the reincarnations of Karni Mata and her sons.

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Tribal Dances of India

  

Tribal Dances of India are performed firmly by tribal people of the country. These people, who are denominated as ‘adivasi’, possess a culture, which is distinct from the pan Indian population. It may be noted that tribal dances of India are vastly dissimilar from Indian folk dances; there is no thread that binds the two. There are several tribal folks in India; each of the aboriginal tribes possesses their own distinguishable dance traditions and invariably all of them are interwoven with the life of the people who perform the same.

Different Tribal Dances of India
Some Indian tribes pen down their songs to accompany their dances. Either the dancers sing themselves or the viewers sing and participate. Special musical instruments for the tribal dances are also utilised during the performances; but the drum is almost a requisite feature of each tribal dance. Following are some of the popular tribal dances of India:

Bagurumba Dance: ‘Bagurumba’ is a tribal dance of native ‘Bodo tribe’ in Assam and Northeast of India. It is a conventional dance which is traditionally inbuilt from one generation to other. The ‘Bodo’ women carry out the ‘Bagurumba’ dance with their colourful ‘dokhna’, ‘jwmgra’ (scarf) and ‘aronai’ (muffler). The Bagurumba dance is believed to be the major traditional dance of ‘Bodo’ tribe.

Raut Nacha: Raut Nacha is one of the most popular tribal dances of India, which is generally done by ‘Yadava’ community as a representation of worship to Krishna. The dance is closely similar to Krishna's ‘Raas leela’.

Dumhal Dance: ‘Dumhal’ dance is performed by the people of ‘Rauf’ tribe of Kashmir on precise events. The performers dress in long colourful robes and tall pointed caps are studded with beads and shells. The dancers move in a parade carrying a banner in a very traditional fashion. It is then dug into the ground and the men begin to dance, forming a circle around the banner. Dancers sing in chorus and drums are used to assist the music.

Tertali Dance: ‘Tertali’ dance is performed by the ‘Kamar’ tribe of Madhya Pradesh. It is generally performed by two or three women who sit on the ground. Manjiras or small metal cymbals are tied to different parts of the body, mostly with the legs. The head is covered with a veil and a small sword is clenched between the teeth and an ornamental pot balanced on the head.

Tarpha Nach: In the hilly regions of northwest India, Kokna tribal dance is accompanied by the Tarpha or Pavri, which is a wind instrument made of dried gourd. Hence, the Kokna dance is mostly known as Trapha Nach or Pavri Nach.

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Types of Spices

  

Indian spices exhibit a great variety which adds different flavours and aroma to the food making them more luscious and in certain cases healthy. There is a popular belief that spicy foods are bad for health. This belief is not only far from the truth but also that; spices in fact have medicinal properties and are good for health.

Medicinal Properties of Different Types of Spices
Spices are well known as appetizers and digestives and are considered essential in the culinary art all over the world. Some of them have anti-oxidant properties, while others have preservative properties and are used in some foods like pickles and chutneys etc. Some spices also possess strong anti-microbial and antibiotic activities. Many of them possess medicinal properties and have a profound effect on human health. They cleanse the oral cavity from food adhesion and bacteria; they may help to check infection, and to protect the mucous membrane against thermic, mechanical and chemical irritation. Spices possibly activate the adrenal-cortical function and fortify resistance and physical capacity. Stroke volume, blood pressure and stroke frequency can be markedly diminished or augmented by means of spices. Spices inhibit thrombus formation and accelerate thrombolysis.

Production of Different Types of Spices
India has a glorious past, pleasant present and a bright future with respect to production and export of spices. Pepper, cardamom, chillies, turmeric and ginger are some of the important spices produced in India. India is a great exporter of spices.

Different Types of Spices
The important spices produced in India are black pepper, cardamom, ginger, turmeric, chilli, garlic, coriander, cumin, fennel, fenugreek, celery, clove, nutmeg, cinnamon, tamarind, kokum, garcinia, curry leaf, saffron, vanilla and mint. Some categories of the different types of spices are as follows:

Fruit Type Spices: Many fruits are used as spices in dried form. They are known for augmenting the taste and aroma of the food. Common fruit type spices include Cardamoms, Juniper, Nutmeg, Mace, Vanilla, Star Anise etc.

Seed Type Spices: Seed type spices are the fertilized and ripened ovule having a protective covering. Some of these are used in their original form while some are powdered before use. Common members of this type of spices are Caraway, Anardana, Ajwain, Celery etc. They do not possess much nutritional value, however their use in medicinal purpose, perfumery and making flavouring agent have been well established.

Bark Type Spices: Bark type spices are obtained from the bark of the trees. These are known to be highly flavoured imparting great taste to the food when added. The bark of the trees growing at higher altitudes produces better quality bark and high content of essential oils. Common bark type spices are Cinnamon and Cassias.

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Naturopathy and Diseases

  

Naturopathy, though, is considered to be of a very recent origin but it involves ancient methods of nature cure for several diseases. Naturopathy is a constructive method of treatment which aims at removing the basic cause of disease through the rational use of the elements freely available in nature. There are references in India’s ancient sacred books about the widespread use of nature’s excellent healing agents such as air, earth, water and sun. It is not only a system of healing, but also a way of life, in tune with the internal vital forces or natural elements comprising the human body. It is a complete revolution in the art and science of living.

Role of Nature on Human Body
Naturopathy is based on the realisation that man is born healthy and strong and that he can stay as such as living in accord with the laws of nature. Even if born with some inherited affliction, the individual can get rid of it by putting to the best use the natural agents of healing. Fresh air, sunshine, a proper diet, exercise, scientific relaxation, constructive thinking and the right mental attitude, along with prayer and meditation all play their part in keeping a sound mind in a sound body. Nature cure believes that disease is an unusual condition of the body resulting from the defiance of the natural laws. Every such violation has repercussions on the human system in the shape of lowered vitality, irregularities of the blood and lymph and the accumulation of waste matter and toxins.

To cure disease in Naturopathy, the first and foremost requirement is to regulate the diet. To get rid of accumulated toxins and restore the equilibrium of the system, it is desirable to completely exclude acid forming foods, including proteins, starches and fats, for a week or more and to confine the diet to fresh fruits which will disinfect the stomach and alimentary canal. If the body is overloaded with morbid matter, as in acute disease, a complete fast for a few days may be necessary for the elimination of toxins. Fruit juice may, however, be taken during a fast. Alkaline foods such as raw vegetables and sprouted whole grain cereals may be added after a week of a fruits-only diet.

Diseases Cured by Naturopathy
The human body is a sophisticated tough machine. Most of the diseases can be treated and cured by cleansing the human body through natural, eliminative and physiological processes. Naturopathy can be used to heal several acute and ordinary ailments. Some of them are as follows:

Infertility: Naturopathy can be used to get effective relief from this menace affecting urban population.

Psychological Disorders: Critical brain related disorders like Schizophrenia, Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease have affected a considerable part of human population. While there is no fixed cure, Naturopathy can be used to help affected lot to slow down the degeneration process.

Autoimmune Diseases: Autoimmune diseases are triggered by strange activities in human immune system. Naturopathy is not used to stop the autoimmune disease, but it can be used to repair the damages caused. Once the immune system of the affected person’s body is in shape, it prevents further occurrence of the ailments.

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Kundalini Chakras, Yoga

  

Kundalini Chakras are the 7 Chakras, according to Kundalini meditation are awakened. The Chakras are arranged vertically along the spine and abundant energy pathways or channels are present, called Nadis that intersect at these Chakras. The Chakras are sometimes referred to as lotuses, since they open and close like a flower, and in the yogic system they are represented with varied number of petals, ranging from 4 at the base Chakra to 1000 at the crown. They can be stimulating and awakened by yogic practices like asanas, breathing and meditation. When motivated, they create latent forces, which awaken the power to triumph over disease, decay and finally, according to the ancient yogis, death as well.

Concept of Chakra in Kundalini
The word Chakra is a Sanskrit word, meaning "wheel" or "disc". In the ancient yoga systems of India, the word ‘Chakra’ described a spinning vortex of energy in the subtle body.

Seven Kundalini Chakras
The lotus is used as a symbol for purity in regard to the Chakras, because despite of living in mud it is not soiled by the mud but rises above it. Thus the lotus justifies the theory of Maya Shakti. Each petal of the lotus is a separate Bija Mantra for that particular Chakra. The 7 kundalini chakras are as follows;

Mooladhara Chakra (base of spine): memory, time and space;

Svadhishthana Chakra (below navel): reason;

Manipura Chakra (solar plexus): willpower;

Anahata Chakra (heart center): direct cognition;

Vishuddha Chakra (throat): divine love;

Ajna Chakra (third eye): divine sight;

Sahasrara Chakra (crown of head): illumination, Godliness.

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Indian Temple Festivals

  

Indian temple festivals are special celebration in the temple premises during particular days to commemorate some mythological legends of the temple deity. Feasts are an integral part of Indian temple festivals. The attendees spend all day at the temple, enjoying them and the temple officials arrange for a special worship and prayer times for the festivals. Such festivals often conclude with an array of spectacular fire works displayed in innovative patterns and varieties, which make spectators, go into raptures. This famous and mighty exhibit of the magnificent display of fireworks adds to the popularity of the Indian temple festivals.

Orissa Temple Festivals
Orissa Temple Festivals are famous all across eastern India. Jagannath temple, located in Puri is an important pilgrimage centre and boasts of one of the most famous Indian temple festivals, Ratha Yatra. Mukteswara Temple, Bhubaneshwar celebrates the Mukteswar Dance Festival wherein expert Odissi dancers dance to the accompanying musical instruments. Duet, solo and group dances are performed by the participants.

Kerala Temple Festivals
Kerala Temple Festivals include the most famous Arattu festival at the Lord Padmanabha temple in Thiruvananthapuram. The other significant temple festivals of Kerala are Thrissur Pooram, Utsavams in Padmanabha swami temple, Makaravilakku, Attukal Pongala, Ashtami at Vaikom temple, Sabarimala, Vrishchikotsavam and a few others.

Tamil Nadu Temple Festivals
There are two such festivals every year, one in the Malayalam month of Thulam and the other in Meenam. Chittirai festival, celebrated in Madurai is one of the most famous Tamil Nadu Temple Festivals. This festival lasts for 10 days and the eighth day witnesses the coronation of Meenakshi, while the 9th day is the Digvijaya festival and the 10th day commemorates the wedding of Meenakshi and Sundareswarar. Generally, the residents of this Indian state celebrate temple festivals in the months of March to June and September to October. During such festivals the religious deities are beautifully decked up with jewelleries and new costumes. Pongal, Natyanjali Dance festival and Karthigai Deepam are amongst the numerous temple festivals in this state.

Karnataka Temple Festivals
Karnataka Temple Festivals are renowned in south India and the Ranganatha festival is the most popular one. The festival is held in the temple dedicated to lord Ranganatha, dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Anantha Shayana. The Brahmotsava festival in Karnataka happens in the month of Chaitra and lasts for 10 days. The Karaga festival and Hoysala Mahotsava festival are a few of the innumerable temple festivals of Karnataka.

Andhra Pradesh Temple Festivals
Andhra Pradesh Temple Festivals include the prominent celebrations like Kotappakonda Temple Fair, Maridamma Festival, Sambhulingeswara Kalyanotsavam, Yellaramma Jatara Jaladurga Kalyanotsavam, Durgamma Festival and Dalta jayanti.

West Bengal Temple Festivals
The West Bengal Temple Festivals are some of the major Indian temple festivals held in eastern India. Rathayatra is a weeklong festival in honour of Lord Jagannath, Balaram and Subhadra, while Jhapan is celebrated in the honour of the serpent-deity Manasa on the last day of the Bengali month Sravana. Other than these, Durga Puja, Lakshsmi Puja, Kali Puja and Jagadhatri Puja are some more popular festivals in the temples of West Bengal. Kali puja festival brings about the worship of Maa Kali, a reflection of Maa Durga. Kalighat Temple in Kolkata is a premier site for worshipping Maa Kali. The worship of goddess Kali is marked by display of fireworks and crackers.

Bihar Temple Festivals
Bihar Temple Festivals include Makar Sankranti, Nag Panchami, Navaratri and Chhath Puja. Navaratri is one of the major Bihar temple festivals connected with the autumnal equinox that begins on the first and ends on the tenth day of Navaratri. After the idol of Durga has been worshipped for nine continuous days, it is taken to the river and immersed into it. Dusshera celebrates the victory of Rama over Ravana. This Bihar temple festival it is also called Vijayadashami. Huge colourful paper and wooden effigies of Rama's enemies, Ravana, Meghanada and Kumbhakarna are filled with fire works and burnt during Dussehra. However, the actual Puja takes place in temples of Lord Rama. Mahashivratri, Diwali, Holi and Sarhul are the other temple festivals celebrated here.

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