Indian Culture – of Oneness with many Facets

Once I met an Israeli tourist in Laos. He had been to India a dozen times. He made a statement which has stayed with me forever. “When you visit any country you can see temples which are a couple of hundred years old. But when you are in India, you can sit next to the tree where the Buddha got enlightenment. You can live in a city which is 3000 plus years old”.

And he was right. This is a place where you can learn about a religion which is “Sanatana” or timeless. And perhaps is more philosophical in nature. Or maybe you can learn the Indian classical music. A music form that has evolved by incorporating elements from Arab and Afghan music.

Not one but many India

India is not one country. It is an amalgamation of many countries, languages and religions. Where God(s) can be a King, a flutist, a cowherd, a householder, a warrior or a die-hard romantic… A country where the typical meal (thali) caters to all the taste buds… And all the nutrients, in case you are a health freak. And each spice mix will have a different story behind it.

Music and joint family system are ingrained in the Indian culture

India has created music for rain, lighting up the city, inviting or even chasing the bees… It is a country where grandparents consider it their duty to impart knowledge to their grand kids.

Amalgamation of many cultures and sub cultures

The Indian culture has been shaped by various cultures, subcultures and religions. The ancient scriptures also are books which have kept pace with time. There is at least one festival celebrated in some part of India every month. These range from harvesting festivals to celebration of victory of good over evil… Even to a celebration of womanhood.

Heritage of Science and Maths are a part of Indian culture

India is not just about spirituality, religion and art forms. An integral part of Indian culture is mathematics and astronomy… And the traditional science of Ayurveda, which is now gaining popularity worldwide.  And many, many others… For instance, this is also a country of weavers. Every state has a different style and form of weaving.

You have to make many trips within India to really experience the Indian culture. No amount of writing can do justice to what it is all about. Here are a few to give you a feel of what I’m talking about…

Few Glimpses of the Indian culture

Khajuraho Temples:

For those who have heard about Khajuraho, these are the Erotic temples! But the fact is this temple complex is about celebration of life and love. Read more about Khajuraho.

Tower of silence:

The ancient practice of sky-burial is still practiced in some parts of India by the Parsi community. Sky burial is when you leave the dead out to the elements for feeding the birds. This is a final act of charity by the departed person… Read more on this practice of sky burial.

Living root bridges:

Heard of bridges which are not built but grown? The living root bridges of Meghalaya are a testimony of man working with nature. To bridge communities.

Mayong:

You many just disappear while reading this section… In case you chant the Luki Mantra by mistake, that is… Welcome to Mayong, the black magic capital of India.

Bull surfing:

Forget surfing on the sea. Think muddy paddy fields, a wooden board and bulls for power. Surfing in muddy fields is a cultural practice in Kerala in South India. Read more on this unique tradition of Bull Surfing.

Chausath:

The forgotten feminist cult of ancient India. One which threw patriarchy to the winds. And prayed in roofless temples with 64 female deities. This cult gave more importance to dance and art than societal bonds and traditions. It flourished before patriarchy and Victorian morality swept it away almost completely. Away from the collective consciousness of the public. Read more on this ancient feminist cult of India.

Holi, celebrating color:

Ever participated in a festival of colors ? What is the meaning of color for you? Is about love, celebration, devotion and fun? Discover Holi to see which color you want…

Fatehpur Sikri

This is a town overshadowed by the more famous Taj Mahal. And hence less visited. But the history and legends in this place are far far more interesting. And the erstwhile capital of Emperor Akbar with the stories and customs make it even more appealing. Here are some more details of Fatehpur Sikri and its charms in case you are keen.

Hoysala Temples – Belur and Halebidu, Jain Shrine – Shravanabelagola

The Hoysala temples at Belur and Halebidu. These are the fine examples of architecture. Not far away from the twin cities is Shravanabelagola. This is popular for the largest monolithic statue in the world. Read more about the amazing temples of Belur, Halebidu and Shravanabelagola.

The ruins of Hampi

Hampi is an absolute must visit if you appreciate history and would like to know more about the Vijayanagara dynasty. Located in the state of Karnataka, Hampi is one of the most popular destinations visited. Famous for the publicized Stone Chariot, Vittala Temple and Virupaksha temple, Hampi has loads more to offer. Hampi offers an interesting connection between history and mythology which very few places can match.

Kapaleeswarar Temple of Mylapore

Kapaleswarar Temple is an ancient temple located in Mylapore, Chennai. This temple is believed to be built by the Pallava dynasty. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi. Parvathi worshiped Shiva under a punnai tree. This tree still exists and believed to be the oldest tree in Chennai. Parvathi is known as Karpagambal – Goddess of the wish yielding tree. The belief is, she grants anything wished for.

The Shore Temples of Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a popular tourist destination for its heritage sites and pristine beaches. Once upon a time, Mahabalipuram was an important sea port for trade to south east Asian countries and China. The shore temples were built by the Pallava dynasty. From the seven shore temples that existed earlier, only one temple complex remains today. The remains were visible when the waters of the tsunami in 2004 receded.

Shatrunjaya Hill – The holy site for Jains

For Jains, Shatrunjaya Hill is one of the holy sites that one must visit in a lifetime. The ascend to the top of the hill has 3500 steps. Built over two phases, there are 863 temples in all atop Shatrunjaya Hill. Rishaba – the first tirthankara gave his first sermon here. Most of the tirthankaras or jinas attained nirvana or salvation here. There are many temples with images of Rishaba. Most of the pilgrims visit the Adinatha temple and the Nine enclosures. Nine enclosures are shrines which are dedicated to the tirthankaras.

Badami – The capital of the mighty Badami Chalukyas

Badami also known as Vatapi was the capital of the Badami Chalukyas over two centuries. The Badami Chalukyas fought many a war with the Pallavas. The Rock Cut Cave Temples are famous here. Also famous are the Badami Fort, Mahakuta temple, Bhutanatha temple, Agastya Lake and Banashankari temple. Interestingly the 5th century Agastya lake has never run dry till date. In addition to all of the above, Badami is a great place for bouldering.

Meenakshi Amman Temple of Madurai

Located in the heart of Madurai is Meenakshi Amman temple which dates back to the 1st century! Every year during the spring season millions of devotees visit this temple to witness the wedding ceremony of Sundareswarar and Meenakshi. Sundareswarar is another name for Lord Vishnu and Meenakshi for Goddess Parvathi. This wedding ceremony spans across 10 days and is indeed a celestial spectacle.

Mysore – The City of Palaces and Heritage town Srirangapatna

Apart from the famous procession that takes place during Dasara, Mysore is famous for its palaces. Amongst the five palaces built by the Royal family, the Mysore Palace is a popular tourist attraction. Chamundi Hill has a mythological connection with the buffalo faced demon Mahishasura being killed by Goddess Durga here. Mysore is popular for its silk, sweet (mysore pak) and its soap (mysore sandal soap). Located about 20 kms from here is the heritage town of Srirangapatna. Srirangapatna was the capital city under the rule of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan. Ranganathittu bird sanctuary and Brindavan gardens in addition to the heritage sites at Srirangapatna are the places of attraction.

The Monasteries and Educational Institutions of Bylakuppe

When China invaded Tibet in 1959, Dalai Lama along with about 80,000 Tibetans fled to India. Some of them traveled to Southern India and settled in Bylakuppe. There are presently around 70,000 Tibetans in Bylakuppe. Bylakuppe has many monasteries and educational institutes. This settlement is the second largest in the world outside Tibet. The Tibetans here do farming to earn a living in addition to selling arts and crafts.

Fontainhas – A Latin Quarter in India

Fontainhas was the residence of the Portuguese officers when they moved their base to Panjim during the pandemic of the 18th century. Hence Fontainhas has a strong Portugal influence. The colorful houses, cottages, bakeries and cobble streets all contribute to why Fontainhas is Asia’s largest Latin Quarter! Fontainhas is definitely worth a visit when visiting Goa.

The Experimental Township of Auroville

Not far away from the city of Puducherry popular for its beaches and french colonies is Auroville. Auroville also called as City of Dawn was founded by Mira Alfassa in 1968. People from all over the world live here in harmony. This township thus is a perfect example of human unity. Auroville is capable of housing 50,000 residents. Electricity, Healthcare and Education are free here. One can volunteer as a part of workshops or intern here. One of the popular attraction in Auroville is Matrimandir. Matrimandir is a meditation center which resembles a golf ball.

---

India is not just about culture. It is also about a way of thinking. This is a culture that has long grappled with the mysteries of life. And hence a plethora of thought processes and philosophy streams.

For instance, check out these musings on Indian philosophical thought regarding the joys of creation without attachment. In fact, there are many more facets to this ancient land. Wildlife, spirituality, mystery, nature, history and so on. Read more about how to explore the varied destinations in India.

In case you are keen on experiential travel and wish to explore India, visit Beyonder Travel.