Roots and Reflections - Exploring Ideas, Experiences and Wisdom

Jammu and Kashmir is home to many historical forts symbolizing the culture, military history, and strategic significance of the region. The forts of Jammu are varied, ranging from ancient construction to late fortification built by various other rulers through the centuries. Even today, these forts remain important as mementos of a bygone age in the history of the former state. Most notably, there is Bhimgarh Fort-Aka the Reasi Fort that is well known in the Reasi district. The fort is tied to local legends, especially that of Bhima from the Mahabharata. It is believed to have been built during the time of the Dogra dynasty. However, the fort is rumored to have existed since time immemorial. Bhimgarh Fort is significant from cultural and historical perspectives, especially relating to the Jammu district.  Initially, a mud-and-clay construction, the fort was reconstructed during the reign of Maharaja Rishipal Rana, the founder of the Raesi district. It was at this time, around the 7...

                                                                                                                   The vibrant festival of Basant Panchami, also known as Vasant Panchami, heralds the arrival of spring. This occasion is filled with energy, positivity, and joy. It is a time to honor Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge and learning, and to seek her blessings for a life enriched with wisdom and understanding. This year, Basant Panchami will be celebrated on February 3rd (Monday), and it is important to observe this day with devotion and enthusiasm. The festival occurs on the fifth day of the bright lunar fortnight, Sukla Paksha, in the month of Magha according to the Indian lunisolar ...

The Chinar tree, known locally as "Bouin," is an essential part of Kashmir's cultural and ecological heritage. It significantly influences the region's identity, culture, and environmental health. Historically, these trees have drawn many tourists, particularly in autumn when their leaves transform into stunning shades of red, yellow, and orange. The Chinar has adorned the landscape of Kashmir for centuries with some trees reporting to be over 600 years old. The oldest known Chinar, on the outskirts of Srinagar, is estimated to have reached approximately 650 years old. The facts presented demonstrate the significance of the Chinar tree as embodied in its continuous requirement for protection now regarded not merely as a natural treasure but also as reflecting the rich heritage of Kashmir. By January 2025, more than 28,500 Chinar trees had been identified and surveyed throughout the length and breadth of the Kashmir Valley. The data collected encompassed precise geogra...

Baldness, or hair loss (alopecia), can arise from a variety of factors, including genetics, lifestyle choices, and medical conditions. In India, hair loss and baldness are becoming more prevalent, affecting both men and women. It's estimated that about 85% of Indian men will experience some degree of baldness by the time they reach 50. Reports suggest that around 40% of Indian men start noticing hair loss before they turn 30. Furthermore, 1 in 4 Indian women experience significant hair thinning due to hormonal and nutritional issues. Major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore report higher rates of hair loss, likely linked to pollution and stress. This problem isn't limited to India; baldness is a worldwide issue, causing many individuals to struggle with feelings of inferiority as a result. In America, baldness is a common concern that affects millions of men and women. About 50 million American men deal with male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia), while around 30 m...

India's National Games is a multi-game event that occurs periodically wherein athletes from various Indian states and Union territories are gathered. To this end, the National Games is India's biggest domestic sports event, comparable to a national-level Olympics. The National Games started in 1924 with the first edition, then called the Indian Olympic Games, held in Lahore, British India. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) required this event to help create a sports culture throughout the Indian territory. In 1940, it was officially renamed the National Games. Initially, the Games were organized annually, but due to logistical and financial issues, they became infrequent. The inaugural National Games were held in Lahore (in undivided India) in 1924. The Games in their modern incarnation were established in New Delhi in 1985. In 2022, the 36th National Games, for the first-ever time as hosts, occurred in Gujarat. After this, the 37th edition took place in 2023, competing wher...

The observance of Tila Ashtami is associated and connected with the celebration of Shivratri. Maha Shivratri is the biggest festival celebrated by the Kashmiri pandits. This festival of Shivratri has a special importance in the philosophy of Kashmir Shaivism, and it is celebrated in a distinct, unique, and special way by the Kashmiri Pandits all over the world. The Shivratri to KP’s commences on the first Tithi - day of Falgun Krishanpaksh in the first fortnight of this auspicious month, lasts for a fortnight, and culminates or comes to a close with Teela Ashtami. In all important festivals of Sanatan Dharma, there is the practice of giving offerings to one's dead ancestors called Pitras in Hindu mythology, and the observance of Tila Ashtami is concerned with offering light to dead ancestors on the eighth day after Mahashivratri.  It is a practice and norm with the Kashmiri Pandits that the Shivratri Prasad, such as wet walnuts and bread made from rice flour, is distributed among n...

Jammu city truly deserves the title of the city of temples, as you can find temples, shrines, and other religious sites in every corner. These places of worship symbolize mutual brotherhood and communal harmony, attracting people from various faiths. One of the oldest and most renowned temples is the cave shrine of Peerkho, located near Panjthrithi in Jammu. It draws a large number of devotees, especially on Purnimashi, Amavaysa, Eakadashis, and Soomwars (Mondays), who come to pay their respects to Lord Shiva and seek his blessings. This cave temple is a significant pilgrimage site, often bustling with visitors. Many believe that their wishes are granted by visiting this cave and honoring Lord Shiva, whose natural idol is enshrined there. As one of the oldest temples in the city, it experiences a considerable influx of devotees on auspicious days. Additionally, the shrine sees a large number of worshippers during major festivals in Jammu, such as Shivratri, Raksha Bandhan, and Shraven ...