Discover the rhythms, traditions, and stories that shape communities worldwide with Cultural Currents. From festivals and rituals to art, music, and everyday life, this category offers a window into the heart of cultures both familiar and exotic. Cultural Currents celebrates the richness and creativity of human expression, helping you connect with the narratives that make each culture unique.
Bengali culture thrives on traditions and artistry, particularly evident in Sindur Khela during Durga Puja. This emotional ritual celebrates womanhood, resilience, and community as married women apply vermillion to each other’s faces, symbolizing joy and unity amidst farewells. Once exclusive to married women, Sindur Khela has evolved to include all women, reflecting the inclusivity of Bengali identity. It embodies love and solidarity, marking an eternal bond among women.
Durga Puja is a deeply emotional and cultural celebration for Bengalis, marking the arrival of Goddess Durga. It involves artistic preparations, including idol making and elaborate pandals. The festival, beginning with Mahalaya and spanning five days, highlights themes of unity, love, and spirituality. Food is integral, featuring community feasts. As festivities conclude, a bittersweet farewell to the Goddess reaffirms bonds of culture and anticipation for future celebrations.
Airports evoke a unique introspection, marked by the transition between known and unknown. While waiting during a layover at Doha, the author reflects on a Warli art mural seen at Indira Gandhi Airport. This ancient art form, practiced by the Warli tribe, symbolizes ancestral memory and nature's sacredness. The mural serves as a cultural ambassador, reminding travelers of enduring stories and the traditions connecting them to India's heritage.
On International Nurses Day, we honor nurses for their selflessness and resilience, especially during the COVID-19 crisis. Florence Nightingale's pioneering work inspired this day, highlighting nurses' pivotal role in shaping healthcare. Despite challenges like long hours and inadequate resources, their unwavering commitment is a beacon of hope. Let's express gratitude and support for nurses worldwide.
The author celebrated his first wedding anniversary on May 3. The past year of marriage was filled with learnings, challenges, and strengthening of their love. They remembered their first vacation, family visits, and other joyful occasions. The anniversary was celebrated with both families, involving a lunch at home and a party at Capitol Residency Hotel in Ranchi, with reminiscence of their wedding rituals. The author expressed deep love for his wife and looked forward to many more years of shared experiences.
Mandala art is a captivating representation of the universe and the human psyche. It has a rich history dating back to ancient times, spreading across various cultures and religions. Mandala art comes in diverse types, each with its own significance, and serves as a therapeutic practice, promoting mindfulness and self-expression. This art form, whether created or admired, can inspire, heal, and bring inner peace.
Hanuman, a highly venerated deity in Hinduism, is believed by many to have been born in Jharkhand, specifically in a place known as Anjan Dham. This hill is thought to be where Hanuman's celestial mother Anjana gave birth following a penance. The location, which features a temple dedicated to Anjana, attracts numerous pilgrims each year. However, other locations across India, like Anjaneri and Anjanadri, also claim to be Hanuman's birthplace, reflecting the diversity and complexity of Hindu mythology.
The Paryavaran Mela (Environment Fair) was held in Ranchi, India, and hosted by the non-profit, Yugantar Bharti, in collaboration with the Nature Foundation. The event included environmental conservation stalls, handicraft vendors from various states, and cultural performances, particularly the Chhau dance. The Chhau dance, a significant symbol of community identity and unity, originates from Eastern India and is recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Durga Puja is a vibrant festival embodying history, spirituality, and community, celebrating the goddess Durga as a symbol of strength and motherhood. Its roots trace back to ancient times, evolving through various cultural influences in Bengal. The festival transformed during the colonial era into a symbol of national pride. Today, Durga Puja combines artistic expression with devotion, showcasing innovations in decoration and culture. Recognised by UNESCO, it remains a powerful reflection of Bengal’s identity and unity.
Agatha Christie, the "Queen of Crime" and best-selling novelist, experienced a transformative chapter of her life in Baghdad. After a 1928 divorce, she found solace and inspiration in Iraq, marrying archaeologist Max Mallowan. Immersing herself in Mesopotamian culture, Christie contributed to archaeological digs, enriching her literary work, including "They Came to Baghdad." Her love for the city and its people profoundly influenced her novels, leaving a lasting legacy.
