Swastik

Welcome to the Indian house and I am sure you will find this symbol somewhere or the other. Visible yet unnoticed. This is how this pious symbol is.

A 3000 years old ancient mark, with four arms bent at 90 degrees, usually oriented horizontally or at a 45° angle.  It is considered to be a religious symbol which is commonly used in temples and houses in India. Its Indian form typically features a dot in each quadrant (as shown in the figure below).

Its origin is unclear. But in India its considered to be 'shubh' or 'pious'. To start any good work we use this symbol in different forms; as its used in rakhi, greeting cards, clothes, show pieces, wall hangings and God knows, you'll find it on any random thing lying across. Change is visible, but the culture somehow follows and finds it way. And now India has started using it in designs of hidden cameras as well. I just came across this image sometime back. Surprised? Me too. :)

Have a look at some of the real images below. You'll witness it!!

See a few more ways how a 'Swastik' is used in India. You'll find it on any random thing or people you come across. This is India. :) 

                                                                                                                                      

Svastik on an Auto Rickshaw in Delhi.

Svastik carved on utensils used for worship.

Designer Svastik space in a restaurant.

Today, the swastika is used primarily as a religious symbol by Hindus, but it also appears in Buddhism and Jainism.

The symbol is very commonly used in festivals here in India, like in Deepawali or in Holi. And its also created on the doors and walls of the houses. Its also a part of Rangoli designs on floors. You can find some images below. It is created with flowers, colors, abeer etc.

Doesn't it look amazing with a deep/diya beside it? 

Its beauty is personified when its used in Rangoli created with flowers. Isn't it?

But.. Remember... DON'T step on it. Its not practiced in India as its considered to be Pious. Don't come and ask me as I have already warned you all. :) 

Chai (Indian tea)

This is how the day starts here.. with a cup of tea. Ek pyaali chai ki. :)
The first sip someone will look forward to early in the morning.
Most of the times, there are no fixed timings for it. The intake can reach up to 5-10-15 cups or glasses a day. Be it a single family or a joint family, all of the family members get a chance to sit together and chit-chat and lead to different kinds of discussion. This is fun and the bond of the relationship gets stronger everyday. Tea becomes an excuse to keep everyone together.

And now, if we talk about its importance in terms of revenue, India produces some of the best tea in the world and 4% of the National income of India comes from tea.

Major kinds of tea that comes from India is Assam, Darjeeling, Nilgiri tea and yes, Orissa tea is also known for its taste.

'Chai' is the basic term used for tea here in India. 'Chai' is a hindi word of tea. In hindi, its चाय.

Though there are different styles to prepare chai and is prepared with different flavors which is actually very strong. And the basic ingredients are black tea, milk, water, sugar and spices. And the spices which are majorly used in it is, cloves, ginger, cardamom, cinnamon and pepper. No doubt, 'The Chai' tastes so wonderful. :)

Traditionally, Kulhar ki chai (Tea in small pots) and Chai ki pyaali (Chai in a glass) are two different styles to serve tea in India.

Kulhar ki chai

Chai ki pyaali

In South India, the tea is generally served in a steel glass, in a steel bowl.

In winters, Chai and pakodas are favorite.

Below is an image of a kettle. A Chai wallah's kettle or a tea maker's kettle. 

There are many other styles to prepare and serve Chai in India. The list is too long. Better visit India and spent some time here and you will get to know the varieties of Indian tea. :)

By any chance, if you are invited to an Indian house, that means you will not only get a chance to have tea, along with that you will also be served snacks which will be mouth watering. Don't forget, Indians are well know for their hospitality. :)

Incredible India

Dear readers,

I created this blog in order to express the value and respect that I hold for my country, India. To show you a different India from a different perspective. Small things and places unexplored will be the main highlight.

Stay tuned...!!!

Peace and Regards.
Ritu.

Website - www.ivibgyor.com