Gods and goddesses are terms used to describe the deities in various polytheistic religions, with each representing specific aspects of life, nature, or human experience.
Durga Puja whispers across borders, even in Erbil where celebrations are solitary yet profound. Ancient traditions link her arrival and departure steeds to omens—elephant for prosperity, palanquin for illness. This year, she comes with promise yet departs with caution. Beyond rituals, her timeless message endures: resilience, courage, and faith that transcends geography, carried quietly in memory, devotion, and hope.
Nanna, the moon god of ancient Sumer, was a celestial deity revered for his profound influence over time, agriculture, and destinies. As the lord of the lunar calendar, he provided guidance and protection to mortals, particularly in Ur, where his grand ziggurat stood as a testament to his power. Nanna's legacy transcended Sumer, influencing neighboring cultures and highlighting the enduring connection between humanity and celestial bodies.
Tusu Festival, celebrated in eastern India during the harvest season, reflects agrarian traditions and community spirit. Rooted in folklore, it honors Tusu, a martyred girl, symbolizing resilience and sacrifice. Key elements include Tusu songs, dolls, feasting, and vibrant gatherings, blending tradition with modern values and addressing contemporary issues.
Our year-end road trip from Ranchi to Puri was a journey of fulfilling wishes and creating unforgettable memories. Jagrata's long-held desire to visit the Jagannath Temple was finally realized, while Tania experienced her first glimpse of the sea. The trip unfolded amidst picturesque landscapes and delightful culinary stops. However, we encountered some challenges upon arriving in Puri due to road blockades implemented by the city police to manage the crowds. Despite this, the spiritual visit to the Jagannath Temple and the coastal adventures at Puri’s Golden Beach and Chilika Lake made the experience truly enriching.
Inanna, the goddess of love, war, and life in Uruk, sought to explore the Underworld, ruled by her sister Ereshkigal. Despite warnings, Inanna descended, shedding her divine adornments at each gate. Once faced with Ereshkigal, she was struck down. Enki intervened, allowing her return with a trade, leading to Dumuzi's capture. Inanna's tale reflects themes of transformation, sacrifice, and the balance of opposites.
Hidden in the rugged hills of Sidhi, Madhya Pradesh, the prehistoric shrine of Baghor shelters a triangular stone believed to be over 11,000 years old—perhaps the earliest symbol of the Mother Goddess in India. Discovered by archaeologists in the 1970s, it continues to be worshipped today, bridging prehistory and faith in a timeless ode to the divine feminine.
Itu Puja, or Itu Brata, is a cherished festival in Bengal, celebrated in the month of Agrahayan (November-December) in honor of Mitra, the ancient Vedic Sun God. It symbolizes gratitude to nature and community, emphasizing agricultural prosperity. The festival, deeply rooted in tradition, features women leading rituals, fasting, and singing. Personal memories of devotion highlight its significance, connecting past and present while fostering harmony with nature.
Enheduanna, the first known author in history, was a high priestess in ancient Mesopotamia around 2300 BCE. Daughter of Sargon of Akkad, she bridged cultures through her literary works and divine devotion, particularly to Inanna. Her poetry reflects deep personal and spiritual struggles, establishing her enduring legacy in literature and religion.
The Ubaid culture, existing in southern Mesopotamia around 5000 to 4000 BCE, laid the groundwork for Sumerian civilization. Notably, the Lizard Figurines, with their unique reptilian features, suggest complex societal beliefs, including possible connections to shamanism and fertility. These artifacts highlight Ubaid advancements in art, agriculture, and spirituality.
Govardhan Puja is an annual Indian festival celebrated after Diwali, honoring Lord Krishna's protection of Vrindavan. It highlights the significance of cow dung as a sacred material in rituals, symbolizing purity and sustainability. The festival emphasizes gratitude, community, and ecological consciousness, linking spiritual values with respect for nature and traditional practices.
