Hindu panchang history, etymology and details

Hindu panchang history, etymology and details

Hindu panchang, also known as the Hindu calendar, is a traditional system of timekeeping that has been used in India for centuries. The word "panchang" is derived from the Sanskrit words "panch" meaning five and "anga" meaning limb, hence, the Hindu panchang comprises five limbs. These limbs are tithi, vaar, nakshatra, yoga, and karana. Each of these limbs has a specific function and plays an important role in determining auspicious dates and times for various events and ceremonies.

History and Etymology of Hindu Panchang:

The origins of the Hindu panchang can be traced back to the Vedic period, which lasted from around 1500 BCE to 500 BCE. The Vedas are a collection of ancient texts that contain knowledge and wisdom passed down through generations of sages and seers. One of the earliest references to the use of a calendar can be found in the Rigveda, which mentions the measurement of time in terms of months and years.

Over time, the Hindu panchang evolved and became more complex. The current system that is used today was developed during the Gupta Empire (320 CE to 550 CE). This system was based on the lunar cycle and was used to determine the dates of various festivals and ceremonies.

Details of the Hindu Panchang:

As mentioned earlier, the Hindu panchang comprises five limbs, each of which has a specific function.

Tithi: The tithi is a lunar day, and there are 30 tithis in a lunar month. The tithi is determined by the position of the moon in relation to the sun. Each tithi is associated with a specific deity and has its own significance.

Vaar: The vaar is a day of the week, and there are seven vaars in a week. Each vaar is associated with a specific planet and has its own significance.

Nakshatra: The nakshatra is a lunar mansion, and there are 27 nakshatras in a lunar month. Each nakshatra is associated with a specific deity and has its own significance.

Yoga: The yoga is a combination of the positions of the sun and the moon, and there are 27 yogas in a lunar month. Each yoga is associated with a specific deity and has its own significance.

Karana: The karana is half of a tithi, and there are 11 karanas in a lunar month. Each karana is associated with a specific deity and has its own significance.

The Hindu panchang is used to determine auspicious dates and times for various events and ceremonies such as weddings, housewarming ceremonies, and festivals. It is also used to determine the dates of important Hindu festivals such as Diwali, Holi, and Dussehra.

In conclusion, the Hindu panchang is a traditional system of timekeeping that has been used in India for centuries. It comprises five limbs, each of which has a specific function, and is used to determine auspicious dates and times for various events and ceremonies. The Hindu panchang is an important part of Hindu culture and tradition, and continues to be used by millions of people around the world.

Never Ending Agony Of Pakistan's Khwaja Sira Community

Pakistan's Khwaja sira community, also known as hijras or transgender persons, have a long history of cultural significance and social stigma. Despite the recognition of the third gender in Pakistani law, the Khwaja sira community still faces significant discrimination and marginalization.

The Khwaja sira community is made up of individuals who identify as neither male nor female. They have existed in South Asia for centuries and have traditionally played important roles in religious and cultural ceremonies, particularly in Islamic and Hindu communities. However, their status as a recognized third gender was only formalized in Pakistan in 2009, when the Supreme Court granted them legal recognition and rights.

Despite this legal recognition, the Khwaja sira community still faces significant discrimination and marginalization in Pakistani society. They often experience rejection from their families and communities, leading many to leave their homes and live in marginalized and vulnerable situations. This rejection is often rooted in cultural and religious beliefs that view the Khwaja sira community as immoral and sinful.

The Khwaja sira community also faces significant challenges in accessing basic services such as healthcare, education, and employment. Discrimination and harassment are common in these areas, making it difficult for members of the community to access the resources they need to lead healthy and productive lives.

Efforts have been made to improve the situation of the Khwaja sira community in Pakistan. NGOs and activists have been working to increase awareness about the community and their rights, and to provide support and advocacy for members of the community. Additionally, some businesses and government agencies have implemented affirmative action policies to provide job opportunities and improve access to services for the Khwaja sira community.

However, much more needs to be done to address the discrimination and marginalization faced by the Khwaja sira community in Pakistan. This includes a broader societal shift in attitudes towards gender and sexual orientation, as well as concrete policy and legal changes to protect the rights of the community. With sustained efforts from civil society and the government, the Khwaja sira community can live a life free from discrimination and marginalization.

Top granite stones of India

Top granite stones of India

Granite is a widely used natural stone that is popularly used in various construction and decorative projects. India is known for its rich reserves of granite, and it produces a wide range of granites that are exported to countries across the world. In this blog, we will discuss the top granite stones of India, their location, color, export data, usage, and qualities.

Black Galaxy Granite:

Black Galaxy granite is a popular choice for countertops, flooring, and wall cladding due to its striking black background with golden specks. It is found in the Chimakurthy region of Andhra Pradesh, and it is exported to countries such as the USA, Canada, and the Middle East. This granite is known for its durability, resistance to heat and scratches, and easy maintenance.

Absolute Black Granite:

Absolute Black Granite is a premium quality granite that is known for its deep black color and uniform texture. It is quarried in the Khammam region of Telangana, and it is exported to countries such as the USA, UK, and Europe. This granite is ideal for countertops, flooring, and wall cladding due to its durability, resistance to stains, and low water absorption.

Tan Brown Granite:

Tan Brown Granite is a popular granite that is characterized by its brownish-red color with black and gray specks. It is quarried in the Karimnagar region of Telangana, and it is exported to countries such as the USA, Canada, and Europe. This granite is ideal for countertops, flooring, and wall cladding due to its durability, resistance to scratches and stains, and low maintenance.

Kashmir White Granite:

Kashmir White Granite is a beautiful white granite that is characterized by its gray and black specks. It is quarried in the Madurai region of Tamil Nadu, and it is exported to countries such as the USA, Canada, and Europe. This granite is ideal for countertops, flooring, and wall cladding due to its durability, resistance to scratches and stains, and low maintenance.

Imperial White Granite:

Imperial White Granite is a premium quality white granite that is characterized by its black and gray specks. It is quarried in the Madurai region of Tamil Nadu, and it is exported to countries such as the USA, Canada, and Europe. This granite is ideal for countertops, flooring, and wall cladding due to its durability, resistance to scratches and stains, and low maintenance.

Paradiso Granite:

Paradiso Granite is a beautiful granite that is characterized by its purple and gray hues. It is quarried in the Kanakapura region of Karnataka, and it is exported to countries such as the USA, Canada, and Europe. This granite is ideal for countertops, flooring, and wall cladding due to its durability, resistance to scratches and stains, and low maintenance.

In conclusion, India has a rich reserve of granite stones, and the stones mentioned above are just a few of the many that are available. Each granite stone has its unique qualities, and they are ideal for various construction and decorative projects. With India's expertise in granite extraction and processing, it is no surprise that the country is a leading exporter of granite stones across the world.

Top five non veg dishes of Gujarat

Gujarat, a state located in western India, is known for its rich culture and delectable cuisine. Although Gujarati cuisine is mostly vegetarian, it also offers a variety of non-vegetarian dishes that are popular in the region. Here are the top five non-veg dishes of Gujarat:

Salli Boti: Salli Boti is a traditional Parsi dish that has become a part of Gujarati cuisine. It is a lamb curry that is cooked with onions, ginger, garlic, tomatoes, and spices. The dish is usually served with a side of crispy potato sticks, known as salli. The combination of tender lamb and crispy potato sticks makes for a delicious and flavorful dish.

Chicken Dhansak: Chicken Dhansak is a popular Parsi dish that is made with chicken, lentils, and vegetables. The dish is flavored with spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric, and is usually served with rice or roti. The sweetness of the lentils balances the spiciness of the chicken, making it a perfect combination.

Surati Koliwada: Surati Koliwada is a spicy fried chicken dish that originates from the city of Surat in Gujarat. The chicken is marinated in a blend of spices and then coated with a batter made from gram flour and spices. It is then deep-fried until crispy and golden brown. Surati Koliwada is usually served with green chutney and a squeeze of lemon.

Bheja Fry: Bheja Fry is a dish made with goat brains that are cooked with onions, tomatoes, and spices. The dish has a unique texture and flavor, which comes from the soft and creamy brains. It is usually served as a side dish with rice or roti.

Saas Ni Machchi: Saas Ni Machchi is a fish curry that is made with a coconut and yogurt-based sauce. The fish is cooked in a spicy and tangy sauce that is flavored with cumin, coriander, and turmeric. It is usually served with rice or roti.

In conclusion, Gujarat offers a variety of non-vegetarian dishes that are rich in flavor and unique in taste. From the spicy Surati Koliwada to the tangy Saas Ni Machchi, there is something for everyone to enjoy. If you are a food lover, be sure to try these dishes the next time you are in Gujarat.

Rajasthani Non-Veg Evolution

Rajasthan, the land of the royals, is known for its rich cultural heritage, art, music, and, of course, food. Rajasthani cuisine is known for its unique taste, spices, and flavors, and it has evolved over the years. In this blog, we will explore the evolution of Rajasthani authentic non-vegetarian food in the past 50 years.

Before we dive into the evolution, let's take a look at the traditional non-vegetarian dishes of Rajasthan. The most popular non-vegetarian dish in Rajasthan is Lal Maas, which is a spicy mutton curry made with a blend of red chili powder, garlic, and other spices. Other popular dishes include Safed Maas, a creamy white mutton curry, Junglee Maas, a wild game meat curry, and Murg Mussallam, a whole chicken roasted with a mix of spices.

Now, let's take a look at how these traditional dishes have evolved over the past 50 years. The first major change that has occurred is the use of technology. In the past, the traditional dishes were cooked in a clay pot over a wood fire. Today, modern cooking methods such as pressure cooking and using gas stoves have become more popular.

Another major change is the availability of ingredients. With the globalization of food, ingredients from all over the world are now easily available in Rajasthan. Chefs are experimenting with new ingredients and adding their own twist to traditional dishes. For example, some chefs are using coconut milk instead of cream in Safed Maas, and others are adding prawns to Lal Maas.

The influence of tourism has also impacted the evolution of Rajasthani non-vegetarian food. With an increase in tourism, chefs have started to cater to the tastes of tourists by making the dishes less spicy and using more butter and cream. This has resulted in the creation of new dishes such as Butter Chicken, which is now a popular dish in Rajasthan.

Finally, the evolution of Rajasthani non-vegetarian food can also be attributed to the changing lifestyles of people. With busy schedules, people are now looking for quick and easy meals. To cater to this demand, chefs have started to create ready-to-eat dishes such as Mutton Keema and Chicken Tikka Masala.

In conclusion, Rajasthani non-vegetarian food has come a long way in the past 50 years. From traditional dishes cooked in clay pots over wood fires to modern cooking methods using gas stoves and pressure cookers, the evolution has been significant. With the availability of new ingredients, influence of tourism, and changing lifestyles, chefs are constantly experimenting with new dishes and adding their own twist to traditional dishes. However, despite all the changes, the essence of Rajasthani cuisine remains the same, and it continues to be one of the most unique and delicious cuisines in India.

गुजरात में गिर गायों का संक्षिप्त इतिहास'

गुजरात में गिर गायों का संक्षिप्त इतिहास'

 गीर गाय, जिसे गीर या गिरिंका गाय के नाम से भी जाना जाता है, मवेशियों की एक अनोखी नस्ल है जो भारत की मूल निवासी हैं। विशेष रूप से, वे गुजरात राज्य के गिर वन क्षेत्र से हैं। ये गायें सदियों से गुजरात की संस्कृति और अर्थव्यवस्था का अभिन्न अंग रही हैं। इस ब्लॉग में हम गुजरात में गिर गायों के संक्षिप्त इतिहास की खोज करेंगे।

 गिर वन क्षेत्र गुजरात के सौराष्ट्र क्षेत्र में स्थित है। यह क्षेत्र राजसी एशियाई शेर सहित अपने विविध वनस्पतियों और जीवों के लिए जाना जाता है। यह गिर गाय का घर भी है, जिसे मालधारी समुदाय ने पीढ़ियों से पाला है। मालधारी एक खानाबदोश जनजाति है जो सदियों से इस क्षेत्र में रहती है। वे मवेशी प्रजनन में अपनी विशेषज्ञता के लिए जाने जाते हैं और उन्होंने गिर गाय की नस्ल के विकास में महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभाई है।

 गुजरात में गिर गायों का इतिहास प्राचीन काल में देखा जा सकता है। वैदिक शास्त्र, जो 1500 ईसा पूर्व के हैं, भारतीय समाज में मवेशियों के महत्व का उल्लेख करते हैं। गायों को पवित्र माना जाता था और विभिन्न प्रयोजनों के लिए उपयोग किया जाता था, जिसमें खेतों की जुताई, दूध प्रदान करना और धन के प्रतीक के रूप में उपयोग किया जाता था।

 मुगल युग के दौरान, जो 16वीं शताब्दी में शुरू हुआ, गुजरात पर मुस्लिम शासकों का शासन था। इसके बावजूद, मालधारियों ने गिर गायों का प्रजनन जारी रखा और एक संपन्न डेयरी उद्योग विकसित किया। मुगल शासकों ने डेयरी उद्योग के महत्व को पहचाना और उच्च गुणवत्ता वाली गायों के प्रजनन को प्रोत्साहित किया।

 19वीं सदी में ब्रिटिश उपनिवेशवादी भारत आए और उन्होंने देश का प्रशासन अपने हाथ में ले लिया। अंग्रेजों ने गिर गाय की नस्ल के महत्व को पहचाना और नस्ल में सुधार के लिए प्रजनन केंद्रों की स्थापना की। पहला गिर प्रजनन केंद्र 1917 में जूनागढ़, गुजरात में स्थापित किया गया था। अंग्रेजों ने 1927 में एक गिर स्टड फार्म भी स्थापित किया, जिसने नस्ल के विकास में महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभाई।

 1947 में भारत को स्वतंत्रता मिलने के बाद, गुजरात सरकार ने प्रजनन केंद्रों को अपने कब्जे में ले लिया और गुजरात कृषि विश्वविद्यालय की स्थापना की। इस विश्वविद्यालय ने गिर गाय की नस्ल के विकास में महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभाई है और नस्ल की आनुवंशिक शुद्धता को बनाए रखने में मदद की है।

 आज, गिर गाय भारत में मवेशियों की सबसे लोकप्रिय नस्लों में से एक हैं। वे अपनी उच्च दूध उपज, रोग प्रतिरोधक क्षमता और विभिन्न जलवायु के अनुकूल होने के लिए जाने जाते हैं। नस्ल को दुनिया भर में मान्यता भी मिली है, ब्राजील और संयुक्त राज्य अमेरिका जैसे देशों ने प्रजनन उद्देश्यों के लिए गिर गायों का आयात किया है।

 अंत में, गुजरात में गिर गायों का इतिहास गुजरात के लोगों की लचीलापन और सरलता का प्रमाण है। सदियों के विदेशी शासन के बावजूद, मालधारी और अन्य पशुपालकों ने नस्ल की आनुवंशिक शुद्धता को बनाए रखने और इसके सांस्कृतिक महत्व को बनाए रखने में कामयाबी हासिल की है। आज, गिर गाय गुजरात की अर्थव्यवस्था और संस्कृति का एक अभिन्न अंग है और आने वाली पीढ़ियों तक इसकी विरासत बनी रहेगी।

A Brief History of Gir Cows in Gujarat

Gir Cows, also known as Gyr or Girinka cows, are a unique breed of cattle that are native to India. Specifically, they are from the Gir Forest region in the state of Gujarat. These cows have been an integral part of the culture and economy of Gujarat for centuries. In this blog, we will explore the brief history of Gir cows in Gujarat.

The Gir Forest region is located in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat. This region is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including the majestic Asiatic lion. It is also home to the Gir cow, which has been bred by the Maldhari community for generations. The Maldharis are a nomadic tribe that has lived in the region for centuries. They are known for their expertise in cattle breeding and have played a crucial role in the development of the Gir cow breed.

The history of Gir cows in Gujarat can be traced back to ancient times. The Vedic scriptures, which date back to 1500 BCE, mention the importance of cattle in Indian society. Cows were considered sacred and were used for a variety of purposes, including ploughing fields, providing milk, and as a symbol of wealth.

During the Mughal era, which began in the 16th century, Gujarat was ruled by Muslim rulers. Despite this, the Maldharis continued to breed Gir cows and developed a thriving dairy industry. The Mughal rulers recognized the importance of the dairy industry and encouraged the breeding of high-quality cows.

In the 19th century, the British colonizers arrived in India and took over the administration of the country. The British recognized the importance of the Gir cow breed and established breeding centers to improve the breed. The first Gir breeding center was established in 1917 in Junagadh, Gujarat. The British also established a Gir Stud Farm in 1927, which played a crucial role in the development of the breed.

After India gained independence in 1947, the government of Gujarat took over the breeding centers and established the Gujarat Agricultural University. This university has played a crucial role in the development of the Gir cow breed and has helped to preserve the breed's genetic purity.

Today, Gir cows are one of the most popular breeds of cattle in India. They are known for their high milk yield, disease resistance, and adaptability to different climates. The breed has also gained recognition worldwide, with countries such as Brazil and the United States importing Gir cows for breeding purposes.

In conclusion, the history of Gir cows in Gujarat is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the people of Gujarat. Despite centuries of foreign rule, the Maldharis and other cattle breeders have managed to preserve the breed's genetic purity and maintain its cultural significance. Today, the Gir cow is an integral part of the economy and culture of Gujarat, and its legacy will continue for generations to come.

India's Economic Superpower Potential

India's Economic Superpower Potential

How India will become economic superpower by 2030?

India is one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world, and there is a growing belief that it could become an economic superpower by 2030. The country has made significant strides in recent years, and there are several reasons why India has the potential to become a global economic powerhouse.

Demographics

India has a young population, with a median age of just 28 years old. By 2025, it is estimated that over half of the population will be under the age of 25. This demographic dividend means that India has a vast pool of young, skilled workers who are entering the workforce, and this can be harnessed to drive economic growth.

Economic reforms

Over the past few years, the Indian government has implemented several economic reforms to improve the business climate and attract foreign investment. These include the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), the liberalization of FDI norms, and the simplification of business registration processes. These reforms have helped to boost investor confidence and create a more favorable environment for businesses to operate in.

Infrastructure development

India has made significant investments in infrastructure development, including the construction of new highways, airports, and ports. The government has also launched initiatives such as the Smart Cities Mission, which aims to build 100 smart cities across the country. These infrastructure developments will help to attract businesses and create jobs, and will also help to improve the quality of life for Indian citizens.

Digital revolution

India is undergoing a digital revolution, with the rapid adoption of smartphones and the internet. This has created a huge market for digital services and e-commerce, and has also led to the development of innovative technologies such as fintech and edtech. The digital revolution is creating new opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs, and is helping to drive economic growth.

Manufacturing sector

India is already a major manufacturing hub, and the government is keen to develop the sector further. The 'Make in India' initiative aims to promote domestic manufacturing and attract foreign investment into the sector. The government has also introduced incentives such as tax breaks and subsidies to encourage the development of new manufacturing facilities. The manufacturing sector has the potential to create millions of jobs and drive economic growth in India.

Energy security

India has made significant progress in the development of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power. The government has set ambitious targets for the adoption of renewable energy, and is also exploring other sources such as hydrogen and biofuels. Energy security is crucial for economic growth, and India's investments in renewable energy will help to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and create a more sustainable future.

In conclusion, India has a lot of potential to become an economic superpower by 2030. The country's young population, economic reforms, infrastructure development, digital revolution, manufacturing sector, and investments in renewable energy are all factors that will help to drive economic growth in the coming years. However, there are also challenges that India will need to overcome, such as improving its education system and addressing income inequality. If India can successfully tackle these challenges, then it has the potential to become a global economic powerhouse.