South Asian meal with fish, rice, curries, chilies, and lime

Exploring the Ilish Tradition in Kojagari Lakshmi Puja

On October 28, 2026October 28, 2026 By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Cultural Weave6 Comments

The exploration of Bengali culture reveals the unique practice of offering Hilsa fish during Kojagari Lakshmi Puja, particularly among families of East Bengali origin. This custom, while surprising to some, reflects the diverse traditions woven into Bengali heritage, connecting spirituality with nature. Hilsa, symbolising prosperity, serves as a cultural marker, illustrating the relationship between culinary practices, seasonal cycles, and community beliefs. It embodies the richness and variety of Bengali customs through generations.

Trip to City of Temples – VI: The Journey Back from Kathmandu to Birgunj

On October 26, 2026 By Judhajit RoychoudhuryIn Wandering Worlds3 Comments

The journey to Kathmandu was not just about the destination, but the memories created along the way. The return trip offered stunning views of Nepal’s landscapes and moments to reflect on the rich experiences—spiritual traditions, friendships, and local culture—that made the adventure meaningful, leaving lasting impressions far beyond photographs.

Trip to City of Temples – V: Three Durbar Squares, Three Ways of Remembering History

On October 25, 2026October 25, 2026 By Judhajit RoychoudhuryIn Wandering Worlds5 Comments

Rain disrupted our plans to visit Chandragiri, leading us back to Kathmandu's historic centre. We explored the lively atmosphere of Basantapur Durbar Square, where my wife found traditional jewellery. Our journey continued to Patan, admired for its well-preserved architecture, and finally to Bhaktapur, which felt like a vibrant, living town. The day showcased a rich tapestry of culture, history, and daily life across the three squares.

Trip to City of Temples – IV: Budhanilkantha, A crisis, Swayambhunath, & Sekuwa

On October 24, 2026October 25, 2026 By Judhajit RoychoudhuryIn Wandering Worlds4 Comments

Explore Kathmandu’s sacred Budhanilkantha Temple and monkey-filled Swayambhunath, navigate cash troubles and wrong buses, savour Nepali street food, and reconnect with old friends over sekuwa. Join us on Indrosphere for a day filled with spiritual discoveries, unexpected detours, laughter, and unforgettable travel memories as our Kathmandu adventure continues towards Chandragiri Hills!

Trip to City of Temples – III – Boudhanath Temple & Rainy evening

On October 23, 2026October 25, 2026 By Judhajit RoychoudhuryIn Wandering Worlds4 Comments

Discover the spiritual charm of Kathmandu as we explore the magnificent Boudhanath Stupa, savour traditional Thakali cuisine with breathtaking rooftop views, and witness the devotion of pilgrims. Our day takes an unexpected turn when rain disrupts our sightseeing plans, leading to a disappointing momo stop and a relaxing dinner at Trisara. Join us for another memorable chapter on Indrosphere!

Trip to City of Temples – II: Pashupatinath & Guhyeshwari

On October 22, 2026October 25, 2026 By Judhajit RoychoudhuryIn Wandering Worlds6 Comments

Our first full day in Kathmandu unfolded as a journey through faith, culture and unexpected discoveries. From a leisurely breakfast in Thamel to the sacred precincts of Pashupatinath and Guhyeshwari, every experience revealed another facet of Nepal’s spiritual heart. Witnessing ancient rituals, funeral rites and wedding ceremonies, we discovered how devotion intertwines with life, death and new beginnings.

Trip to the Temple City – I: The Journey begins

On October 21, 2026October 21, 2026 By Judhajit RoychoudhuryIn Wandering Worlds8 Comments

On the heels of my final Family Medicine exams in Raxaul, I extended the trip with my wife, Tania, choosing a night bus over an EV traveller to Kathmandu. Between blaring movie speakers, a humble vegetarian thali at Darechok, and dawn in Thamel, the story shows how real travel begins when plans shift.

দুটি ঋতু, এক দেবী—বাংলার দুর্গাপূজার অন্তর্লোক

On October 20, 2026 By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn ইন্দ্রবাণী3 Comments

বসন্তের বাসন্তী পূজা ও শরতের শারদীয়া দুর্গাপূজা একই মহাশক্তির আরাধনার দুটি রূপ। মার্কণ্ডেয় পুরাণের দেবীমাহাত্ম্য, কৃত্তিবাসী রামায়ণের অকালবোধন, শাক্ত ও বৈষ্ণব ভাবধারা এবং নবপত্রিকার কৃষিভিত্তিক লোকাচার মিলেমিশে বাংলার দুর্গোৎসবকে দিয়েছে অনন্য পরিচয়। জমিদারবাড়ির আড়ম্বর থেকে সর্বজনীন মণ্ডপ—দুর্গাপূজা আজ বাঙালির ধর্মবিশ্বাস, সাংস্কৃতিক ঐতিহ্য, সামাজিক সংহতি ও সামষ্টিক আনন্দের এক জীবন্ত প্রতীক।

Festive Indian thali with rice, curries, sweets, flowers, and oil lamps

Bhoger Khichuri & Labra: The Sacred Flavours of Durga Puja

On October 17, 2026October 28, 2026 By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Epicurean Enigma4 Comments

Khichuri is more than a dish—it embodies the spirit of Durga Puja. The aroma of Gobindobhog rice, the comforting warmth of roasted moong dal, and the earthy goodness of labra prepared with the season’s freshest vegetables come together in a harmony that evokes home, devotion and celebration. At every puja pandal, this simple feast represents community, the abundance of autumn and the enduring Bengali custom of expressing love through food. A bowl of bhog is not merely a meal; it carries heritage, memories and the very flavour of Pujo.

Winding dirt path through autumn trees toward a village

কেন এই মহালয়া? মহালয়ার আসল গুরুত্ব কোথায়?

On October 10, 2026October 11, 2026 By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Cultural Weave4 Comments

শরতের ভোর, শিউলির গন্ধ আর বীরেন্দ্রকৃষ্ণ ভদ্রের সেই চিরপরিচিত কণ্ঠস্বর— “আশ্বিনের শারদপ্রাতে বেজে উঠেছে আলোক মঞ্জীর...” বাঙালির মনে সঙ্গে সঙ্গে বেজে ওঠে দুর্গাপুজোর আগমনী সুর। আমরা বলি, “শুভ মহালয়া!” কিন্তু কখনও কি ভেবে দেখেছি, মহালয়া কি শুধুই পুজোর আগমনী বার্তা? নাকি এর গভীরে লুকিয়ে রয়েছে পিতৃস্মৃতি, কৃতজ্ঞতা আর মানবিকতার আরও গভীর কোনও অর্থ?