Latest news with #Dussehra
India.com
3 days ago
- General
- India.com
Discover The Fascinating History Behind Mysuru City's Name
Mysore, one of the most iconic cities of Karnataka, India, is famous for its extravagant culture, tradition, grandiose palaces and colorful history. It has always served as a hub for art, education and even spirituality. But do you know what the name Mysru refers to? Well, it is as fascinating as the city itself. Its origin comes from mythology and history and has undergone a lot of shifts in terms of language. In this post, we will cover the roots behind the city perspectives. Mythological roots Did you know that Mysore gets its name from Mahishasura, an ancient demon king? Similarly, the word 'Mysuru' also derives from Hindu mythology. The tale follows, there once was a buffalo headed demon called Mahishasura. He possessed a boon from lord Brahma, which made him virtually invincible. With this blessing, he went on murder spree across the earth and even the heavens in order to subdue the mortals and gods. Defeating him was no easy task for the gods, but with the help of Durga, the goddess of Shakti (a feminine divinity), they managed to win the battle. After nine long days of fighting, Goddess Durga managed to defeat Mahishasura on the final day of the battle. This is referred to as Vijayadashami or Dussehra. This great recital of good conquering evil is celebrated throughout the country during the Nokia Mysuru Dasara, a famous festival in India. As for the Lord Mysuru Dasara, the name Mysurus is said to have evolved from the great battle. It is believed to have had stems from 'Mahishur', an ancient name meaning 'the land of Mahisha.' Like stories of Mesopotamia, Myishuru also changed with time in sequence leading to the modern name of Lord Mahishuru. Historical Evolution of The Name From its original form Mahishuru It saw several effective metamorphosis thanks to Japanese inhabitants of the colonized region. Between the 14th to 16th century of the Vijayanagara Empire rule, the city was known as Mahishuranagara like the rest of the regions. Other than the Vijayanagara Empire, the Wodeyar dynasty claim to have moved to Mysuru after the 14th century bringing with them television and the rise of international sports but with the dying claim of retaining the identity of the city of Mysore. When the British got to India, they altered several Indian names for easier usage. 'Mysuru' became Mysore which was a common name during the colonial period and also after independence. There has been a movement to restore the native Kannada name 'Mysuru' in the recent past for restoration of Indian identities. The Karnataka government did change the city's name from 'Mysore' to 'Mysuru' in 2014 to coincide with its cultural history and genealogy, so the conversion Bill was passed in 2014. The Cultural Significance of The Name 'Mysore' is not just an abstract name; it conveys potency and enriched history. It is a reminder of the great city's mythological roots, and its continuous association with the tale of Goddess Durga and Mahishasura. This heritage outshines during the highly publicized Dasara festival that happens every year, pulling millions of people from around the globe. The vivid and appearance of the city together with the processions, performances and decoration of the palace, during Dasara signals to pay passt to the history of the city and its royal and mythological history. Alongside this, the term 'Mysore' retains shades of the city being a hub of Kannada culture and traditions. Myusru today is considered the cultural capital of Karnataka and is renowned for music, classical dance and art. The city name denotes a Kannada word symbolizing the neverending devotion of the city towards its language and culture. Mysore Today: The Continuation of History. Mysore today is an amalgamation of the city's historical as well as current modern advancements. Mysore is renowned for its sanitation, architectural vandals and has purportedly the highest standard of living in India. The city is emerging as a center for innovation and development with some of the most important schools and research centers and growing businesses. Mysore still complies to the adage 'Old is Gold'. The glorious history of the city is well preserved in gifted marvelous architecture and dramatic landscapes such as Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, and Brindavan Gardens Ishs Thus, the name Mysuru automatically brings a sense of nostalgia. Final Thoughts: There is no denying that the origins of Mysore's name are a mixture of mythology, history, and culture. The city today stands as one of the most significant metropolitan cities, but it all began as a legend of Mahishasura. Every name, especially the ones that stem from myths, carry a story with them. Mysore has always been more than just a city, and this name reflects the unmatched heritage. The city is constantly evolving, but the name remains the same; a symbol of charm and pride. It enables us to reminisce about the spellbinding heritage this city possesses.
Scroll.in
5 days ago
- General
- Scroll.in
Translated short fiction: A Konkani Christian cowherd wonders if he should convert to Hinduism
Caetano stepped onto the track that wound up the hill. This stony track led to the Cowherd's Cross that could be reached in about fifteen minutes if one moved away from the village. The rainy season was almost over, but the clear sky was suddenly filled with dark clouds and it began to rain. The whole area was overgrown with wild grass, and much of the track was hidden by the long blades that had fallen across it. Caetano hacked at the undergrowth with his scythe and carefully cleared the small branches that blocked his path. In the old days cows would follow this track as they moved up the hill in search of pasture, so the cowherds of the village were quite familiar with this route. Caetano had used this track since the time he was a child and had wandered all over the hill with his herd of cows. But the villagers do not rear cows any longer. There are no cows in Caetano's cattle shed these days. He was halfway up the hill when he paused and looked back as the sound of the dhol fell upon his ears. He peered in the direction of the village but it was hidden by tree tops and palm fronds. The Konkani Hindus would be celebrating Dussehra the next day. He had seen some youngsters by the Sree Ravalnath temple, perhaps one of them was beating on the drum. He stopped there only for a moment and then set off again. Caetano reached the banyan tree at the top of the slope, from where the land spread evenly on all sides. Silk cotton trees of different sizes, bushes of wild berries like kanna and churnam and medicinal plants like the pongra stuck out of the undergrowth around the banyan. The whole area was covered with tall grass that grew wild all around. The Cowherd's Cross stood under this banyan … Caetano stepped forward and his eyes fell on the Cross that was almost hidden by the tall grass. Caetano's childhood memories were awakened as he thought of how the cowherds would swing on the aerial roots that dangled from the banyan, how some of them would scramble up these dangling roots, swing from the branches and slide down to the ground. And then they would play marbles till the sun was high up in the sky … He made his way towards the Cross hacking at the tall grass with his sickle. The structure was encrusted with moss and this gave it a dark greenish, blackish hue. Caetano was filled with dismay. The villagers did not know who had set up this Cross or when it had been built, but everyone referred to it as the Cowherd's Cross. The first wild berries that ripened on the bushes in the hills were always set aside as an offering to the Cross; women, who went into the hills in search of firewood, placed wild flowers before the structure. Cowherds would light cotton wicks and offer prayers exhorting the Cross to cure the cows of their afflictions and to ensure that an animal that had strayed from the herd would find its way safely, back to its shed. But all this was a thing of the past. No one bothered to climb the hill or to make his way to the Cross these days. Only Caetano continued to do so whenever he was troubled or his spirits were low. He placed flaming wicks at the foot of the structure and prayed to it, his faith in the power of the Cross remained unshaken. He had come here today to bare his heart before the Cross, to tell it what he had decided … Caetano glanced towards the west where the sun was hidden behind pale pink clouds and the sky displayed a rosy tinge. A layer of darkness had descended on the hill slopes and valleys to the east. Caetano picked up his sickle and cleared the wild grass around the Cross. He scraped the thick moss encrusted on the structure and swept it clean with a leafy twig. He drew some cotton wicks and a matchbox out of his pocket and lit them at the foot of the Cross, setting the whole structure awash with light. He fell to his knees and made the sign of the Cross on his forehead, crying out to it from the depths of his heart. Clasping his palms together so that his interlaced fingers were close to his chest, Caetano bowed his head and addressed the Cross, laying his heart bare. Tears welled up in his eyes, a few drops flowed on to his cheeks, pausing momentarily before they turned into a continuous stream … Caetano would come up to the Cross, light a few wicks, offer prayers and return home before darkness fell. But he was in no hurry to get back home today. He wanted it to get dark first. He glanced at the half-burnt wicks, and the tears dried on his face. He picked up the sickle and set off down the slope in the growing darkness. This had happened eight days ago. It was late in the evening and Caetano had just finished reciting the rosary. He was lighting a fire in the hearth when his titeev Simao, walked onto the porch. 'Come here, Caetano, I want to talk to you,' his uncle said. Caetano emerged from the house and seated himself on the mud seat beside his uncle. 'Caetano, I'm thinking of becoming a Konknno, a Konkani Hindu; of converting back into our old faith. You'll do the same, won't you?' Simao said everything he wanted to convey without pausing for breath. 'I? Become a Hindu?' Caetano's words betrayed his astonishment, his lips trembled and his voice was tinged with fear. The next moment he lapsed into a shocked silence. 'We were Konkani Hindus in the past. The Portuguese converted us, they made us Christians. You will get fields and orchards if you convert to Christianity, they said to our ancestors … many Konkani Hindus joined the Christian faith at that time … But the Portuguese didn't give everyone land. They tricked them …' Simao titeev continued passionately as Caetano listened to him in shocked silence. He couldn't understand what his uncle was trying to say. This was something new. He couldn't come to terms with the thought that they were Konkani Hindus in the past. I am a Christian. I've been baptised by the priest, in church. I wear this crucifix on a chain around my neck. I go to mass every Sunday. I recite the rosary without fail, every evening. How can I be a Hindu, then? What does he mean when he talks of becoming a Konknno all over again? 'Look here, Caetano. My family will convert to Hinduism on Dussehra. I've come to tell you this because you are my brother's son. If you don't join us you will remain the only Christian in Ganvshi village. No one will step into your house. No one will come to your aid if you are in trouble. Think about this and let me know …' Caetano didn't say a word, so Simao got up from his seat and set off home. Caetano didn't sleep a wink that night. He lay in bed, thinking deeply, then he sat up for a while. He got to his feet and stepped out into the courtyard, then he came back and lay down again. Ganvshi is a small village of twenty-one households, of which nineteen are Hindu families and two are Christian ones. The Santeri and the Ravalnath temples are in the open space to the east of the village and the jagor or temple festival is celebrated here in May. The Christians do not have a church here, they go to the church in the neighbouring village for mass. The two Christian families can only turn to the Cowherd's Cross on the hilltop if they seek a symbol of their faith. These two households were part of a single family, that of Costa Fernandes, fifty years ago. Costa had two sons and a daughter, Agnel, Simao and Christalin. Christalin got married and moved away. Simao built a new house for his family when he got married, too. Agnel had only one son, Caetano, who was four years old when his mother passed away. Agnel, who was a coconut plucker, fell off a coconut palm and died soon after that, and Caetano was all alone. It was his titeev Simao who took the boy under his wing and brought him up after that.
Hindustan Times
25-05-2025
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
Operation Sindoor theme to rule Delhi Ramlilas in 2025, during the Dussehra festivities in September-October
Post the recent India-Pakistan border tensions, the war might have been averted but citizens continue to look for ways to ensure the efforts of our soldiers are never forgotten. As a mark of tribute, several Ramlila committees across Delhi-NCR have decided to honour the Armed Forces during this year's theatrical staging of the Ramayana, ahead of the Dussehra festivities. During a special meeting conducted on Friday, by Shri Ramlila Mahasangh – an organisation representing approximately 850 Ramlila committees across the Capital – four proposals were put forth. The first among these was to pay homage to Indian soldiers through thematic tableaux and/or the screening of a documentary. Arjun Kumar, president, of the association and Lav Kush Ramlila, shares: 'We invited 200 out of the 850 big and small Ramlila committees from across the city. Unanimously, all of them agreed ki humein is saal Ramlila mein apni saina ka shaurya – which we witnessed during Operation Sindoor – woh stage par dikhana chahiye. We have sent out a message to all Ramlila committees to either present a tableau themed on the Army's bravery, as part of the Ramlila they organise, or screen a short film of about 15-20 minutes that we will be providing. Some Ramlila committees have also promised to depict the efforts of our Armed Forces through plays.' This year, the Ramlilas in Delhi will be staged for 12 days – one day more than usual – from September 22 to October 3, with Dussehra being marked on October 2. 'Tab tak kaafi time ho jayega, aur logon ko humein bhulne nahi dena ki humari sena ne humare liye kya kya kiya hai,' shares Mahender Nagpal, president of the Ashok Vihar Ramlila Committee. He adds: 'Like the Tiranga Yatra was recently organised in honour of our soldiers, this too is our way of keeping their sacrifices alive in public memory. And that's precisely why we have resolved to accomplish this through Ramlilas this year… Jab Ramlila ke stage par yeh message chalaya jayega tab logon tak humari baat pahunch payegi… Our nation wants peace but is fully capable of striking when threatened.'
India Today
24-05-2025
- General
- India Today
Ganga Dussehra 2025 Date, shubh muhurat snan daan, and rituals explained
Ganga Dussehra, also known as Gangavataran, is a sacred Hindu festival celebrating the descent of the holy river Ganga to Earth. In 2025, this auspicious occasion will be observed on Thursday, June 5. The festival holds deep spiritual significance, especially for devotees of Goddess Ganga, and is marked by bathing rituals, charitable acts, and grand celebrations across DUSSEHRA 2025 DATE AND MUHURAT DETAILSGanga Dussehra date: Thursday, June 5, 2025Dashami tithi begins at 8:24 pm on June 4, 2025 Dashami tithi ends at 10:45 pm on June 5, 2025Hasta nakshatra begins at 12:05 am (June 5 early morning)Hasta nakshatra ends at 3:04 am on June 6, 2025Vyatipata yoga begins at 5:44 am on June 5, 2025Vyatipata yoga ends at 6:43 am on June 6, 2025SIGNIFICANCE OF GANGA DUSSEHRAGanga Dussehra marks the descent of the river Ganga from heaven to Earth. It is believed that the sacred river flowed down to purify and liberate the souls of King Bhagiratha's ancestors. The word "Dussehra" comes from 'Dasha,' meaning ten, and 'Hara,' meaning destroy—symbolising the river's power to destroy ten types of BEHIND GANGAVATARAN – DESCENT OF GANGAAccording to Hindu scriptures, the Goddess Ganga resided in Lord Brahma's kamandal (sacred vessel). Upon Bhagiratha's penance, Lord Shiva agreed to channel her descent, softening her intense flow by capturing her in his locks. As Ganga flowed to Earth, she not only purified the souls of Bhagiratha's ancestors but also brought the divine purity of heaven to the mortal PERFORMED ON GANGA DUSSEHRAadvertisementHOLY DIP IN THE GANGES – GANGA SNANDevotees take a holy dip (Snan) in the river Ganga on this day, which is believed to cleanse all sins and negative karmas. Popular locations for the ritual include:HaridwarRishikeshVaranasiPrayagraj (Allahabad)GarhmukteshwarCHARITY AND DAAN – OFFERINGS FOR SPIRITUAL MERITPerforming daan (charity) is considered extremely beneficial on Ganga Dussehra. Items commonly donated include:Clothes (especially white cotton)Food and grains (particularly jaggery, rice, and wheat)Earthen lampsCopper or silver utensilsDonations to Brahmins and the poorGANGA PUJA AND AARTIDevotees perform Ganga Puja with flowers, diyas, incense, and Ganga Jal. Ganga Aarti, especially at Dasaswamedh Ghat in Varanasi, is a grand sight with thousands participating, chanting hymns, and lighting lamps along the TO CHANT ON GANGA DUSSEHRAChanting Ganga stotras and mantras is believed to bring divine blessings and mental peace. Some powerful mantras include:'Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya Ganga Dharaya Namah''Har Har Gange'Recitation of Ganga Sahasranam or Ganga AshtakamThese chants enhance spiritual energy and invoke protection from sins and DISTINCTION – GANGA DUSSEHRA VS. GANGA JAYANTIWhile both festivals are associated with the Goddess Ganga, they are not the same:Ganga Jayanti celebrates the rebirth of Goddess Dussehra commemorates her descent from heaven to Dussehra is observed on Dashami of Jyeshtha Shukla Paksha, while Ganga Jayanti is marked earlier in the year during Chaitra TO NIRJALA EKADASHIGanga Dussehra typically falls one day before Nirjala Ekadashi. However, in some years (depending on tithi overlap), both may fall on the same date. In 2025, Nirjala Ekadashi will be observed on June 6, the day after Ganga BENEFITS OF GANGA DUSSEHRAObserving Ganga Dussehra with devotion and sincerity is believed to:Cleanse the body and soul of all sinsImprove health and vitalityBring peace to ancestors' souls (Pitra Shanti)Attract divine grace and prosperityIt is also an opportunity to reconnect with nature, water conservation, and the sacredness of Dussehra 2025 is more than a festival—it is a celebration of purity, devotion, and nature's grace. As you prepare for this holy day on June 5, embrace the teachings of Ganga Devi. Whether through a sacred dip, charity, or prayer, let your actions flow with the same compassion and clarity as the Ganga herself.
India.com
23-05-2025
- India.com
10 Fascinating Facts That Make Mysuru City A Must-Visit Destination
Located in the southern state of Karnataka, Mysuru, previously known as Mysore, is rich in history and culture. The city is known for its traditions, beauty and innovation. Aside from its royal palaces, it is home to many vibrant festivals. Here are some mind-blowing facts about this city that you probably didn't know. 1. Also Known As The City Of Palaces A lot of people refer to Mysuru as the City of Palaces and for good reason. The reason being the numerous architectural structures constructed when the Wadiyar dynasty was ruling there. Out of all these structures, myself and many others consider the Mysore Palace to be the most remarkable one. The location is praised for attracting millions of tourists on an annual basis. This grand structure not transforms into a symbol of opulence and heritage due to the fact that it contains a mix of Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic styles, but also due to the astonishing architecture present there. 2. Historical Capital Of Karnataka The Wadiyar dynasty ruled over this place from 1399 untill India gained independence in 1947. Even though Bengaluru is the capital contended to be 'India's Start-up city', Mysuru still remains one of the most important educational and cultural places. One can't deny the reality that this historical city is famous for its grace. 3. Birthplace of the Dasara festival Mysuru is famous for celebrating Dasara (Dussehra) all over the world. In Mysuru, both Navratri and Dussehra are celebrated as the Nada Habba or state festival. It is celebrated for ten days with joy and excitement in commemoration of Goddess Chamundeshwari defeating Mahishasura demon. The highlight of the festival includes the majestic decorated elephants, musical floats, traditional music, and much more. This is a once in a lifetime event you do not want to miss! 4. Chamundi Hill and Its Legends The Chamundeshwari Temple can be found atop the Chamundi Hill, approximately 12 kilometers outside of the city center. The temple is of great divine legacy because it is dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari. The temple of the goddess who slaughtered the buffalo demon Mahishasura is said to be the origin of the hill's name ('Mahishur'). 5. A Pioneer in Urban Planning Mysuru was one of the first ever cities in India to adopt modern urban planning with the help of Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV. With futuristic ideas, he founded the Mysore University, the Oriental Research Institute, and the KRS Dam, all while ensuring the city's development in the early 20th century. 6. Home to India's First Private Radio Station In 1935, Akashvani Mysore, India's first private radio station, opened in Mysuru. It was started as a small broadcasting unit and later became known as All India Radio (AIR) Mysuru. Today, Akashvani still runs programs on classical music and Kannada culture. 7. Rich Wildlife Heritage People who love the outdoors are sure to visit Mysuru due to the presence of some of the finest wildlife sanctuaries in South India. Bandipur National Park and Nagarhole National Park are just a few hours drive and they provide sightings of tigers, elephants, leopards, and other exotic species. These parks are part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 8. Sandalwood and Silk Hub Mysuru is renowned for sandalwood carvings as well as silk sarees, both of which are famous around the world. The fragrant wood is carved into idols, boxes, and other decorative items while the sarees are made of silk woven with zari in a myriad of vivid colors. These products capture the city's craftsmanship and are popular treasures for tourists. 9. Educational Excellence Myusru has several premier educational institutions, such as the University of Mysore, established in 1916. It is often referred to as 'Oxford of The East,' because of its crucial contribution to higher education in pre-independent India. The city also hosts eminent institutions like the Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). 10. Cycle Rickshaws and Eco-Friendly Initiatives Mysuru is one of India's cleanest cities as per the Swachh Survekshan survey. The district has promoted the use of public transport along with waste segregation and solar energy use. Cycle rickshaws are a common means of transport in the city, which helps bolster this sustainable reputation. Final Thoughts Mysuru is more than a tourist site; it is a living resource of history, art, and culture of India. Exploring the breathtaking palaces, attending the splendid Dasara events, or simply soaking in the tranquility of nature have their own charm. Mysuru never fails to captivate people by seamlessly blending tradition with modernity, making it a must visit for travelers around the world.
