Tribal Trails of Chhattisgarh: Discovering the Rich Gond and Bastar Heritage!

Tribal Trails of Chhattisgarh: India’s Unsung Cultural Gem When it comes to immersing yourself in India’s incredible tribal heritage, the under-the-radar state of Chhattisgarh should be at the very top of your list! This lush, off-the-beaten-path region is the home turf for two of the country’s most vibrant and culturally rich indigenous groups – the Gonds and Basters. From mind-blowing artistic traditions and sacred forests to colorful harvest festivals, Chhattisgarh’s tribal customs are not only thrillingly unique – they’re also remarkably well-preserved from modern influences. Let’s dive into the mesmerizing world of rituals, arts, and natural wonders waiting to be discovered on the state’s unsung tribal trails. Gond Gondwana’s Natural & Spiritual Wonders Kick things off by immersing yourself in the fascinating realm of the Gond tribe, widely celebrated as India’s “tribal Picassos.” You’ll be stunned by the incredibly intricate, vibrantly surreal artworks and crafts these indigenous people create. Not only that but their intimate reverence for nature and forest conservation is deeply woven into both their belief systems and incredible artistry. The Gonds consider the dense forests of the Gondwana region their spiritual motherland and protectors. Many of their vibrant paintings and sculpted creations feature sacred deities, symbols, and creatures representing this ancient nature worship. Venture into the cool, emerald-canopied depths of Chhattisgarh’s forests and you’ll stumble upon the Gonds’ revered Dev Gudi groves – pockets of pristine woodlands set aside as sanctuaries for local deities and spirits. Witnessing these unspoiled sylvan lands while soaking in the tribe’s spiritual connection is simply transcendent. Then there are the infectious, wildly colorful Gond harvest festivals like Akhari and Sokhari that turn entire villages into psychedelic open-air celebrations to welcome the new crop season. Get ready to dance alongside tribespeople in stunning traditional garb and face paintings. The Breathtaking Bastar Culture Hub Down in Chhattisgarh’s southeastern districts lies the incredible Bastar region, a veritable hotbed of tribal culture where you can fully immerse yourself in the ways of the Murias, Abhuj Maria, Dhurvaa, Bhatra, and Halba indigenous groups. Do you know that the Bastar region is inhabited by over two dozen tribal groups? It’s a melting pot of unmatched cultural, artistic, and linguistic diversity unlike anywhere else on Earth. This makes even the smallest village an absolute treasure trove of traditions and art forms for curious travelers to discover. Spend time with the famously reclusive Maria tribespeople to witness their intimate, centuries-old knowledge of the forests and self-sustaining practices up close. Or shop incredible handloom textiles, wood carvings, iron crafts, and terracotta creations at artisan villages or the legendary Bastar Dussehra market. The mind-bending skills and creativity on display are simply breathtaking. The Undiscovered Museums & Ecotrails It’s no secret that Chhattisgarh harbors some serious biodiversity hotspots rich with wild tiger habitats and lush nature reserves. But did you also know the state is rapidly developing new sustainable eco trails, tribal heritage museums, and interactive village hubs perfect for cultural tourists? Places like the Ghotul museums and Badri Rai trek immerse you in fascinating mating rituals, folk songs, and lifestyles of local tribes. Walkways like Rakhi Trail and the new Mawai Ecosphere Trail offer low-impact adventures into the dense forests and countryside that have nurtured these indigenous communities for millennia. Just be sure to go with a knowledgeable local guide! You’ll leave with the most authentic, intimate glimpse into Chhattisgarh’s incredible tribal communities in a mindful, ethical manner. So if you crave an eye-opening, culturally and ecologically immersive adventure that strays far from India’s beaten paths, then start planning your tribal trail odyssey through Chhattisgarh’s cultural treasures immediately. This underrated destination deserves far more hype.

Fathima Sanna

Entertainment

Visaranai to Aadujeevitham: 5 South Indian Movies Based On Real Life Stories!

Aren’t movies that revolve around reality a little more intense? From freezing blood to breaking one’s heart, the cinematic depiction of real-life events is often riveting. Some movies based on real-life incidents are portrayed with splashes of fictionalized scenes, either to intensify or to conceal certain things in order to protect the identity of the real people involved. If you’re looking for such intriguing movies, South India has produced some arresting movies inspired by real-life incidents to keep you up till the very end. Visaranai (2015) Visaranai directed by Vetrimaaran is the movie adaptation of the novel Lock Up by M. Chandrakumar. The movie highlights the merciless police brutality lashed down on a group of innocent immigrants ambling down a street of Andhra Pradesh. From beating up to dehumanizing, they were forced to confess the crime they didn’t commit. This thrilling Tamil movie will surely chill your blood. Aval (2017) Here comes a horrific Tamil movie brimming with paranormal attacks. Aval begins with happy moments of a Chinese mother and daughter back in 1934. In the present, a loving couple is shown leading a beaming life of love. Everything is fine until a family moves into the house next door where this Chinese mother and daughter lived years ago. If you’re up for a thrilling movie packed with paranormal occurrences, this one will definitely satisfy you. Manjummel Boys (2024) Are you a wanderlust? If yes, you must be familiar with Guna Caves, nestled in Kodaikanal town of Tamil Nadu. Manjummel Boys directed by Chidambaram S. Poduval is based on a harrowing real-life incident that happened back in 2009. When a group of friends were vacationing in Kodaikanal, one of them fell and was trapped in a crevice at Guna Caves. Ambajipeta Marriage Band (2024) Ambajipeta Marriage Band is a Telugu movie with an incredible blend of reality and fiction, shedding light on caste discrimination that sadly still exists. The movie is set in a village named Ambajipeta, nestled in the east Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh, centering around twins, Malli and Padma. If you’re up for a movie that delves into the thrashing ocean of true love transcending the boundaries of caste and societal expectations, you should immediately watch this. Aadujeevitham (2024) Aadujeevitham is still blowing up the internet for its riveting, heartbreaking plot. The movie tells the tale of a migrant named Najeeb Mohammad who goes to Saudi Arabia with the hope of sending a good amount of money back to his beloved family. But what’s awaiting him is nothing other than a gut-wrenching nightmare, where he is trapped to lead a slave life like a goat, by herding goats in the middle of the scorching desert.

Fathima Sanna

Education

6 Effective Ways To Deal With Back-to-School Anxiety!

Summer vacation is about to say goodbye, and all the schools are set to open for a new, bright academic year. Though most children’s hearts are pitter-pattering with new colorful bags, umbrellas, and many more sweet-smelling stationery items, some children’s hearts are throbbing with thrashing anxiety. From ‘not knowing what to expect’ to ‘the thought of making new friends’, anxiety can be disturbing to many. So here’s how you can help your child deal with anxiety. Tell Them What to Expect Unfamiliarity can lash down anxiety. Not knowing what to expect, the school environment, and many more can make them fall into the whirlpool of disrupting thoughts. In such cases, it’s important to have an open conversation with your child where he/she can unhesitatingly address the concern and acquire your help. Sometimes taking your child to school on the first day and introducing the school environment can help them to an extent. Feed Them With Positivity Keep telling them about all the wonderful things awaiting them at school. From friends who’ll colour their lives to teachers who’ll help them grab their dreams, and convince them about the possibilities and opportunities they’re going to chase and grasp. Ensure Better Living From eating junk food to sleep deprivation, anxiety can stem from an unhealthy lifestyle. Make sure your child is having proper meals and a good night’s sleep. A healthy lifestyle can not only strengthen your child’s body but also magically help your child ease their mental discomforts. Stay Calm and Listen to Your Child It’s important for parents to stay calm and be all ears. Talk as gently as possible to comfort your kid. Comparing your child with your neighbor’s smart child will only worsen their anxiety. So instead of lashing down at them for their brimming worries, cheer them up to chase their dreams and let them know that they’re not alone in this. Arrange Playdates Invite some of their school friends for playdates. Sometimes the thought of bonding again with friends after a long time makes them feel more anxious. Arranging playdates once in a while can help them cope with anxiety. Seek Help If It’s Needed Sometimes things can spill out of your hands. If anxiety is villainous, don’t hesitate to seek help from professionals. The excessive worries fuelled by anxiety disorder can dampen the strength and make your child struggle so helplessly.

Fathima Sanna

Entertainment

Enjoyed Laapataa Ladies? 4 Movies & Series About Small Towns To Watch!

Looking for movies and series set in small towns with slices of comedy to crack up? Laapataa Ladies, the heartwarming tales of two newly married brides who get lost and swapped, highlights the issues lashed down on women by society. If this movie with its heart-wrenching and chuckling moments made your heart hungry for movies with small-town lives, here’s the list of movies to delve into. Toilet: Ek Prem Katha (2017) Toilet: Ek Prem Katha centers around the lack of toilets in rural villages. When the newly married Jaya discovers the lack of a toilet in the groom’s house, she decides to file for divorce, leaving Keshav with a strong urge to fight against open defecation and to ensure proper sanitation to win back his love. The movie not only supports the government’s campaign of promoting sanitation but also sheds light on ensuring basic needs as an important act of love. Pad Man (2018) Here comes another movie with Akshay Kumar. Pad Man is set in a rural village, where women struggle with period poverty and menstrual taboo. Laxmikant, the loving husband of Gayatri, gets upset to see his wife coping with an unhygienic rag during her period. Seeing this, Laxmikant is set to create an affordable pad for his wife and to tear away the age-old menstrual taboo to bring awareness. Panchayat (2020) Panchayat is a wonderfully woven series set in a fictionalized small town named Phulera, nestled in Uttar Pradesh, shedding light on the lack of proper job opportunities and the struggles of being trapped in a low-paying job. Abhishek, an engineering graduate from an urban area is left with the only option to join as a secretary of a panchayat office. His struggles amidst the harsh corners of reality, hurled away from his dream life, will surely make you thrilled to keep binge-watching. Ghar Waapsi (2022) Ghar Waapsi is a gripping series that centers around Shekhar, who has to return to the comfort of his homeland after being sacked from his job at Bangalore. Isn’t being jobless something shameful to admit? Yes, Shekhar decides to keep his unemployment to himself and to live within the pampered walls of familial love. But what will happen if he gets caught?

Aswathy

Education

Druk Padma Karpo School: A Renowned Center For Cultural Understanding & Creative Expression

Amid the stunning beauty of Ladakh, with the majestic backdrop of the Great Himalayas, proudly stands Ladakh’s educational gem, Druk Padma Karpo School. This notable educational institution was featured in the movie “3 Idiots” and affectionately called ‘Rancho School’ by visitors. We, the movie enthusiasts, only came to know about this school through the film. Beyond that, how many of you know about the cultural importance of this temple of education? Though the fame and name of this institution through the movie 3 Idiots is commendable, this 18-year-old educational institution has its own pride to boast and come forward. All About Sustainability You’ll be familiar with the iconic character played by Aamir Khan in the movie 3 Idiots’, who champions unconventional methods of education, creativity, and hands-on learning. Druk Padma Karpo School, founded years before the movie, embodies these same principles in everyday teaching, making it a unique and intriguing educational institution. The Founder His Holiness, the Gyalwang Drukpa, founded this school with a noble vision to educate the Buddhist value system through various study methods. Padma Karpo, which means the ”white lotus”, is an important symbol in Buddhism that embodies Buddhism’s values. The Temple Of Buddhist Philosophy Located in the coldest region of Ladakh, the school is a beacon of deep cultural values rooted in Buddhist philosophy. It proudly continues the mission of imparting world-class education to students from the Himalayan region, including nomadic tribes. The school’s curriculum includes teachings about Buddhism, Ladakhi language, and culture. It incorporates traditional festivals and ceremonies into the curriculum, which is evidence of its dedication to preserving and promoting Buddhist values. The Campus Once you step onto the campus, you can feel the magic. The whole building is designed like a Buddhist mandala. You will first notice the unique architecture harmoniously blends modern and traditional elements. The school’s buildings, constructed with locally sourced materials, are beautiful and environmentally friendly. Solar panels provide sustainable energy, while classrooms are designed to maximise natural light and warmth. These features and the school’s commitment to using reusable materials showcase its dedication to environmental conservation. Inside the classrooms, students explore the vast canvas of creativity while they learn everything. They are exposed to practical methods by conducting experiments, exploring new ideas, implementing critical thinking and problem-solving, etc. They get to know and practice their culture through music and dance, which imparts an inborn love for learning. The Famous ‘Idiotic Wall’ After the successful release of the movie 3 Idiots, this school’s famous ‘Idiotic Wall’, which was shown in the movie became the centre of attraction. Visitors come to the school just to see it and take photos in front of it. A visitor’s centre, photo station, and Rancho’s Cafe are also available for visitors to explore and enjoy. Sustainability At Its Core The school is not just an educational institution but a pioneer in sustainable education. Its water recycling system, eco-friendly garden, and use of reusable materials are all part of its commitment to minimising environmental impact. These practices inspire not just the students but also the visitors to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle.

Aswathy

Entertainment

Accordion Legacy: A Patent Anniversary Celebration of Generational Melodies

On May 24, 2024, Google honoured the accordion ( a musical instrument) with a unique and creative doodle as a tribute to its melodious journey that began in 1829. The instrument, affectionately called ‘the squeezebox,’ has touched the hearts of generations with its lively polkas and soulful tangos. Google delightfully presented the doodle as a beautiful musical display. The logo was transformed into distinctive accordion bellows, and the dancing figures appeared in traditional German attire and danced according to the tunes. The accordion’s mesmerising sound continues to captivate audiences in Parisian cafes and ignite dance floors at Brazilian festivals, showcasing its enduring legacy and universal appeal. Some Accordion Facts The accordion, a genuinely global instrument, has found its place in almost every musical culture worldwide. In Russia, it is a key instrument in balalaika (a Russian musical instrument) ensembles, adding a lively and energetic sound. In Colombia, it is the heart of Vallenato groups (a popular Colombian folk music genre), providing the rhythmic and melodic foundation. From the lively Russian balalaika ensembles to the soulful Colombian vallenato groups, the accordion’s universal appeal is proof of its enduring legacy.

Nikhat Parveen

Culture and Heritage

Mystic Monasteries: Seeking Solace in India’s Ancient Buddhist Sanctuaries

Portals to Enlightenment Do you know that India is home to some of the most ancient and revered Buddhist monasteries in the world? These sacred sanctuaries, nestled amidst towering mountains and serene landscapes, have been beacons of spiritual enlightenment for centuries. Get ready to embark on a captivating journey through these mystic monasteries, where ancient wisdom and architectural grandeur converge to create an aura of tranquility and introspection. Tawang Monastery – A Himalayan Jewel Tucked away in the remote and breathtaking landscapes of Arunachal Pradesh, the Tawang Monastery stands as a shining jewel of Buddhist spirituality. As you approach this majestic complex, you’ll be awestruck by the sight of its imposing façade, adorned with vibrant frescoes and intricate carvings that depict the life and teachings of Lord Buddha. But wait, there’s more! You’ll be fascinated to learn that this sacred sanctuary houses a priceless collection of ancient Buddhist scriptures and artifacts, each one a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region. Rumtek Monastery – A Tibetan Treasure Venture into the picturesque valleys of Sikkim, where the Rumtek Monastery awaits to unveil its Tibetan Buddhist treasures. Prepare to be mesmerized by the ornate architecture, featuring intricate wood carvings, colorful murals, and towering stupas that seem to reach for the heavens. As you wander through the tranquil courtyards and listen to the melodic chants of the resident monks, you’ll be transported to a realm of serenity and spiritual awakening. Not only is this monastery a hub of Buddhist learning, but it also serves as a vibrant cultural center, hosting captivating festivals and celebrations throughout the year. Namdroling Monastery – A Nyingma Sanctuary Nestled in the verdant hills of South India, the Namdroling Monastery stands as a testament to the rich traditions of the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism. Prepare to be captivated by the intricate architecture, featuring ornate golden roofs, towering stupas, and meticulously crafted statues that radiate an aura of divine serenity. As you explore this sacred sanctuary, you’ll be fascinated by the intricate rituals and ceremonies that have been meticulously preserved, offering a rare glimpse into the spiritual practices of this ancient Buddhist tradition. Drepung Monastery – A Scholastic Haven Journey to the outskirts of Leh, where the majestic Drepung Monastery stands as a beacon of Buddhist scholasticism. Prepare to be awestruck by the sheer scale of this monastic complex, which once housed over 10,000 monks dedicated to the pursuit of spiritual knowledge and philosophical contemplation. As you wander through the labyrinth of prayer halls, libraries, and dormitories, you’ll be transported back in time, imagining the vibrant intellectual discourse that once echoed through these ancient corridors. The Rhythms of Monastic Life Not only do these ancient monasteries offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Buddhist architecture and spirituality, but they also provide a rare opportunity to experience the rhythms of monastic life. Prepare to be captivated by the daily rituals and practices that have been carefully preserved for generations, from the mesmerizing chanting of sacred mantras to the intricate sand mandala ceremonies that symbolize the impermanence of existence. Embracing the Mystic Spirit As you bid farewell to these mystic monasteries, remember that they are not just architectural wonders or spiritual sanctuaries; they are living embodiments of profound wisdom and ancient traditions that have stood the test of time. Embrace the mystic spirit that permeates these sacred spaces, and carry with you the memories of a journey that has undoubtedly enriched your soul and broadened your understanding of the world’s spiritual tapestry.

Nikhat Parveen

Culture and Heritage

Nomadic Narratives: Unraveling the Wandering Tapestry of India’s Nomadic Communities

The Call of the Endless Trail Do you know that India is home to a vibrant tapestry of nomadic communities, each with its own unique traditions and ways of life? These wandering tribes have mastered the art of embracing the freedom of the open road, carrying their homes and cultures on their backs as they traverse the vast landscapes of our nation. Get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey through the nomadic narratives of India, where every step unveils a captivating story of resilience, adaptation, and a deep connection with nature. The Rebaris – Guardians of the Desert Imagine traversing the vast, arid expanse of the Thar Desert, where the Rebari tribe has carved out a nomadic existence for centuries. You’ll be awestruck by the intricate embroidery adorning their vibrant attire, each stitch telling a tale of their rich cultural heritage. But wait, there’s more! You’ll be fascinated to learn that these nomads are not just skilled weavers but also expert camel breeders, possessing an intimate knowledge of these magnificent “ships of the desert” that have been their companions on the endless trails. The Gaddis – Shepherds of the Himalayas Venture into the towering Himalayan ranges, where the Gaddi tribe has mastered the art of transhumance – the seasonal migration of livestock between mountain pastures. Prepare to be mesmerized by the intricate woodcarvings that adorn their portable homes, each one a testament to their artistry and connection to the natural world. Not only do these nomads possess an intimate understanding of the rugged landscapes they traverse, but they also play a vital role in preserving the delicate ecological balance of the Himalayan regions. The Banjaras – Traders on the Move Journey through the dusty trails of India’s heartland, where the Banjara tribe has been weaving their nomadic tapestry for centuries. You’ll be captivated by the vibrant colors and intricate designs of their distinctive attire, each piece a reflection of their rich cultural identity. But wait, there’s more! You’ll be amazed to learn that these wandering traders were once the lifeline of India’s commercial network, transporting goods across vast distances and facilitating cultural exchange between distant communities. The Bakarwals – Nomads of the Pastures Immerse yourself in the pastoral landscapes of Kashmir, where the Bakarwal tribe has mastered the art of seasonal migrations in search of lush grazing grounds. Prepare to be enchanted by the rhythmic jingles of their flocks and the melodic tunes they sing to soothe their animals. Not only do these nomads possess a deep reverence for nature, but they also play a crucial role in preserving the region’s biodiversity by ensuring the sustainable use of natural resources. Embracing the Nomadic Spirit As you bid farewell to these captivating nomadic narratives, remember that these communities are not just wanderers; they are the embodiment of a way of life that has stood the test of time. Embrace the nomadic spirit that permeates their existence, a spirit that values freedom, resilience, and a deep connection with the natural world. Carry with you the memories of these extraordinary journeys, and let them inspire you to embrace the wonders that lie beyond the beaten path. Preserving the Nomadic Tapestry In an ever-changing world, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that the rich tapestry of India’s nomadic communities is preserved for generations to come. By celebrating their unique traditions, respecting their ways of life, and promoting sustainable practices, we can ensure that the nomadic narratives continue to weave their magic across the vast landscapes of our incredible nation.

Fathima Sanna

Entertainment

Drive in Saturday to Cloudbusting: 6 Best Uniquely Crafted Songs Inspired by Science!

Are you someone who exuberantly chases scientific theories and facts? Is someone bored of songs woven with unrealistic pieces of words stolen from fantasy worlds? If yes, we’ve collected some spectacularly unique songs inspired by science, for you to sway your head to vibe and think about. Drive on Saturday (1973) Drive in Saturday is a uniquely striking song by David Bowie, set in a futuristic world after an apocalypse where humans no longer remember how to do sex, and have to rely on old movies of the 1960s and 70s to learn about it. Quantum Theory (2006) Quantum Theory by Jarvis Cocker is a comforting song about the parallel universe. A world where everything is perfectly fine. Parallel universe has been taken as a thought to console oneself from the excruciating pain of our reality on earth. In Quantum Theory, Jarvis says, “Somewhere everyone’s happy. Somewhere fishes do not have bones.” Reflektor (2013) Reflektor is a song that echoes the troubles lashed down at us by technological progress. Arcade Fire wanted to stress the issues of alienation sprouted by the internet age. The lyrics are deeply moving. “We are so connected, but are we even friends?” These lines reflect the closed box where we live with haunting shadows of loneliness. Jupiter Crash (1996) Here comes a uniquely thrilling song that talks about the Shoemaker-Levy 9 comet’s crash on Jupiter. In 1994, the world observed the event with startling expressions. You’ll also love the stringing of guitar for its enrapturing beat like the thrashing of waves on the shore. Na Cl (1978) Na Cl by Kate and Anna McGarrigle, is an exceptional song that talks about the romantic relationship between chlorine and sodium atoms. The song will surely make you think and chortle if you’re a science enthusiast. By the way, this couple marries to emerge as sodium chloride. Cloudbusting (1985) Kate Bush’s Cloudbusting is inspired by Peter Reich’s memoir titled “A Book Of Dreams“. Thus, the song revolves around Wilhelm Reich and his son Peter, singing from Peter’s viewpoint. The song talks about the good old times Peter had with his father in their family farm where they spent time cloudbusting.

Ishita

Trends

Top Free AI Image Generators 2024 To Boost 10X Productivity!

Top free AI image generators in 2024 offer exceptional capabilities. These are powerful tools that use artificial intelligence to generate unique images, from whipping up a pretty drawing to letting you express your creativity without breaking the bank! They can even create something as unique as the Mona Lisa eating cheese! Intrigued? Let’s learn more about them. 1. DALL-E 2 (by OpenAI) DALL-E is the OG, the one that started it all. It stands out with its ability to create the most photorealistic art pieces. This tool doesn’t just work with photorealism; it can do whatever you throw at it! The limit is your imagination, and perhaps the long wait time between each generation. But hey, it’s worth it for the amazing results it spits out. 2. Midjourney Midjourney took what DALL-E does and improved it, making a flexible image generation program mainly used in concept art. Its open community makes it easy for anyone new to AI image generation to learn it. 3. Stable Diffusion Stable Diffusion is an open-source model in which developers constantly make cool stuff, like new features and extensions that improve AI. It’s a top choice for users who want precise control over image generation and tech-savvy individuals working on niche projects. While setting it up can be a hassle, part of it is setting up the mods and extensions made by the community. The flexibility is always worth it. 4. NightCafe Creator NightCafe Creator is an image generator that creates beautiful visuals with a handful of artistic styles right at your fingertips. Its user-friendly interface offers many opportunities to experiment and quickly generate awe-inspiring visuals with different aesthetics. The free tier may have limitations, but it’s still pretty flexible. 5. Craiyon (Formerly DALL-E Mini) Craiyon is entirely free and surprisingly fast, making it perfect for brainstorming, creating quick visual concepts, and having a bit of fun! Remember that image quality often won’t reach the heights of other AI generators on this list. Tips for Success The Power of Top Free AI Image Generators In 2024, AI image generators continue to evolve, offering incredible creative potential for free. These tools help you: Get Started with Top Free AI Image Generators! Start experimenting with these top free AI image generators to revolutionize your creative projects. The possibilities are truly limitless!

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