cultural heritage
The Rich Cultural Heritage Behind Zohran Mamdani: How a New York Mayor's Surname Reflects Centuries of Trade and Migration
Nov 05, 2025 05:51 pm CST
Newly elected New York mayor Zohran Mamdani's surname carries a rich history tracing back to the Khoja community - South Asian Muslim merchants who shaped economic development across continents. This article explores how the Mamdani family's journey from Uganda to America reflects centuries of trade, religious evolution, colonial displacement, and cultural resilience, offering insights into how communities build enduring connections across generations and geographies.
BJP MP Urges Renaming Delhi to Indraprastha: A Move to Honor Ancient Indian Heritage
Nov 01, 2025 02:42 pm CST
Delhi BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal has written to Home Minister Amit Shah proposing to rename the national capital as 'Indraprastha' to honor its ancient roots. The proposal includes renaming key landmarks and installing statues of the Pandavas, citing the need to align Delhi with India's cultural renaissance movement that has seen other historic cities reclaiming their traditional identities. Similar requests have previously been made by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and former minister Vijay Goel.
India Rejects UN Report Claims: Traditional Cultural Expressions Thriving, Not Under Threat
Nov 01, 2025 02:23 pm CST
India has officially rejected a UN Special Rapporteur's report claiming the country's traditional cultural expressions are endangered, with MP Indra Hang Subba asserting these claims lack empirical evidence. The parliamentary representative emphasized that India's rich cultural heritage continues to flourish nationwide, supported by comprehensive legal frameworks that effectively protect traditional knowledge and artistic expressions despite claims to the contrary.
The Chhath Puja Homecoming: How Electoral Timing Creates a Dilemma for Bihar's Diaspora
Oct 07, 2025 06:29 pm CST
This article explores the cultural significance of Chhath Puja for millions of Bihari migrants across India and globally, highlighting their annual pilgrimage home to celebrate this sacred festival. It examines the challenging dilemma they face this year with Bihar assembly elections scheduled shortly after Chhath celebrations, preventing many from participating in both their cherished cultural traditions and democratic rights. The piece delves into the deeper tensions between maintaining cultural identity and navigating the practical realities of migrant life, revealing how this working-class community balances devotion to heritage with the demands of economic necessity.
India's Tallest Ravana Effigy Face Mysteriously Survives Flames During Kota Dussehra Celebration
Oct 03, 2025 09:47 pm CST
During Kota's Dussehra festival, India's tallest Ravana effigy at 233 feet experienced a technical glitch when its face refused to burn despite the rest of the structure being engulfed in flames. Municipal fire brigade eventually intervened with a hydraulic crane to complete the ceremonial burning, concluding the traditional celebration that symbolizes good triumphing over evil.
A Century of Nation-Building: Personal Insights into the RSS Journey from Colonial Resistance to Modern India
Oct 02, 2025 08:26 pm CST
This comprehensive account offers a unique insider perspective on the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh's evolution over 100 years, from its founding during colonial subjugation to its present role in Indian society. Written by a former police officer and governor who witnessed the organization's grassroots work in politically volatile Kerala and insurgency-affected Northeast India, the article provides rare insights into RSS's social engineering initiatives, disaster response capabilities, and nation-building philosophy through personal experiences spanning decades of public service.
MF Husain Museum in Qatar: A New Cultural Landmark Opening November 28
Oct 01, 2025 08:28 pm CST
The 'Lawh Wa Qalam: MF Husain Museum' opening in Doha on November 28 will showcase the legendary artist's work through multimedia exhibitions featuring paintings, films, and poetry. Commissioned by Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, this architectural masterpiece based on Husain's own design will display over 35 paintings inspired by Arab civilization, enhancing Qatar's cultural landscape.
Bisrakh Village: The Unique Place in UP Where Ravana is Worshipped Instead of Burned on Dussehra
Oct 01, 2025 05:17 pm CST
In Bisrakh village near Greater Noida, residents observe a distinctive Dussehra tradition by worshipping Ravana rather than burning his effigy. This UP village, believed to be Ravana's birthplace, honors him as an ancestor and scholarly figure. The local Shiv Mandir, known as the Ravana temple, attracts visitors nationwide who come to experience this contrasting celebration that challenges the conventional narrative of Dussehra across India.
PM Modi Celebrates Nari Shakti in Foreword to Italian PM Giorgia Meloni's Autobiography
Sep 29, 2025 03:38 pm CST
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has written the foreword to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's autobiography "I Am Giorgia: My Roots, My Principles," highlighting their strong personal friendship and shared values. Modi connects Meloni's leadership journey with the Indian concept of Nari Shakti (feminine power), praising her courage and commitment to preserving cultural heritage while engaging globally. Their relationship has strengthened India-Italy ties across multiple sectors, with Modi describing the autobiography as Meloni's "Mann Ki Baat" to the world.
The Digital Revolution of Durga Puja: How AI is Transforming Kolkata's Ancient Festival Traditions
Sep 29, 2025 12:39 pm CST
Discover how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing Kolkata's centuries-old Durga Puja festival, where traditional idol makers and community organizers now leverage AI tools like ChatGPT to create innovative designs for the UNESCO-recognized celebration. This fascinating intersection of ancient traditions and cutting-edge technology represents a new chapter in preserving cultural heritage while embracing modern innovation.