Tag: Faith & Tradition

Faith and tradition are intertwined concepts that have shaped human societies for millennia. Tradition often transmits religious beliefs and practices across generations, providing a sense of continuity and identity. However, the relationship between faith and tradition can be complex, with potential for harmony and conflict.

Sohrai: A Tribal Festival of Gratitude, Art, & Harmony in Jharkhand

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Cultural Currents39 Comments

Sohrai, a prominent festival in Jharkhand, transcends a mere harvest celebration for tribal communities, embodying gratitude to nature, cattle, and ancestors, while strengthening cultural ties. It begins with rituals led by the village priest, followed by vibrant celebrations showcasing Sohrai paintings, depicting life and nature. Key elements include music, dance, and community bonding, emphasizing interconnectedness. Recent initiatives preserve this heritage, ensuring recognition for artists and highlighting a tradition that harmonizes with the environment.

Bhoot Chaturdashi: Bengal’s Own Night of Spirits & Light

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Cultural Currents20 Comments

Bhoot Chaturdashi, celebrated in Bengal during late autumn, honors ancestral spirits through rituals like lighting fourteen earthen lamps and consuming fourteen leafy greens. This reflective observance, linked to folklore and protection, emphasizes the connection between life and death, nature, and the significance of remembering one's heritage amid the changing world.

Idol of Goddess Lakshmi at the mandap of Maitraee Club, Doranda, Ranchi

Kojagori Lakshmi Puja: A Night of Divine Blessings & Abundance

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Cultural Currents3 Comments

Kojagori Lakshmi Puja, observed predominantly in Bengal, is a significant festival dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, who symbolizes wealth, prosperity, and good fortune. It coincides with the harvest festival, marking both the beginning of harvest season and the end of the monsoon period. Celebrated with fervor, the festival sees homes adorned with lights, the reciting of mantras, and sharing of traditional sweets. This celebration fosters community spirit, promoting the values of generosity, compassion, and caring for others.

Baba Mandir: The Soldier Who Never Stopped Guarding the Himalayas

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Journeys & Mindscapes1 Comment

Perched at 13,123 feet in the Himalayas, Baba Mandir honors Baba Harbhajan Singh, the soldier who guards the Indo-China border even in legend. Amid prayer flags, misty valleys, and mountain winds, we experienced faith, devotion, and awe. From the life-size statue to sacred rituals, the shrine offers a profound journey into courage, spirituality, and the indomitable spirit of the Himalayas.

Triveni Sangam: Where Rivers & Rituals Converge

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Journeys & MindscapesLeave a comment

In Hindu tradition Triveni Sangam is the "confluence" of three rivers. Sangam is the Sanskrit word for confluence. The point of confluence is a sacred place for Hindus. A bath here is said to wash away all of one's sins and free one from the cycle of rebirth. One such Triveni Sangam, in Prayagraj (Allahabad) has two physical rivers Ganges, Yamuna, and the invisible or mythic Saraswati River. The site is in Prayag (Allahabad).

Karma Puja: Nature, Dance, & Community in Jharkhand

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Cultural Currents19 Comments

Karma Puja is a vibrant festival celebrated in Jharkhand, India, deeply rooted in indigenous tribal traditions. It is dedicated to the worship of the deity Karma, believed to be the protector of forests, fields, and crops. The festival involves various rituals, including tree worship, offerings, and the captivating Karma dance. It symbolizes gratitude towards nature and seeks blessings for prosperity and well-being. Karma Puja serves as a unifying force, fostering a sense of community and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Spiritual Journey to Shirdi: A Pilgrimage Experience

On By Judhajit RoychoudhuryIn Journeys & MindscapesLeave a comment

Embarking on a pilgrimage to the revered Shirdi Sai Baba Temple in Maharashtra was an immensely spiritual experience. The teachings of Sai Baba, emphasizing faith and compassion, left a lasting impression. The tranquil temple complex, filled with devout pilgrims from diverse backgrounds, offered a profound sense of peace. This journey was a reminder of the enduring power of faith and devotion, and a return is eagerly anticipated.

The Legend & Faith Behind Shingnapur’s Unique Village

On By Judhajit RoychoudhuryIn Journeys & MindscapesLeave a comment

Join me on a journey to Shani Mandir in Shingnapur, Maharashtra, where faith and legend converge. The village, without doors due to belief in Lord Shani's protection, is home to a mysterious black stone believed to house the deity. Visitors seek solace and make offerings for relief from Saturn's challenges. The temple exudes tranquillity, with staff offering guidance and free meals, offering a spiritually enriching experience.

Sarhul Festival: A Tribute to Nature & Tribal Heritage

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Cultural Currents38 Comments

The Sarhul festival in Jharkhand, celebrated primarily in April, honors nature and signifies the arrival of spring. Indigenous tribes, such as the Munda, Ho, and Oraon, engage in rituals centered around the sacred Sal tree, representing fertility and spirituality. The festivities include traditional music, vibrant dances, communal feasting, and ancient folklore, promoting cultural heritage and environmental consciousness while fostering community unity and gratitude toward Mother Nature.

Exploring Harissa: History & Beauty of Our Lady of Lebanon

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Journeys & Mindscapes3 Comments

Lebanon's Our Lady of Lebanon, situated in Harissa, stands as a symbol of faith and resilience amid the country's rich cultural heritage. Founded in the late 19th century, the shrine features a magnificent statue of the Virgin Mary overlooking Beirut. Accessible via a scenic cable car ride, it attracts pilgrims and visitors alike. The site combines spiritual solace with cultural significance, embodying Lebanon's enduring history and beauty.