Blogs

Tracing the Journey of Buddha, Dhamma and Sangha in the West

The world is full of very varied expressions that fill the planet on which we live with color and diversity. These cultural expressions are very varied, therefore there are many varied peoples with very different characteristics such as languages, religions or traditions, but thanks to globalization and technology we also live in a more interconnected world, so we can learn more about other beliefs despite being very distant and Buddhism is a religion that has won the admiration of many people in the West, a place in the world where it has more and more followers. Why is Buddhism so popular with Westerners?

Published in Oct 2021

How to wear the traditional sari with a touch of modern fashion trends?

What makes the sari stand out from other clothes and fashion garments is the color options it comes in, combined with the long history of India, and with the addition of modern trends. As such, the sari today is the true representation of the beauty and the significance of how one traditional garment can survive the test of time. The abundance of prints and colors were all perfectly combined to deliver pieces that will make every woman beautiful in its own way, and additionally, convey a message that could hold a religious and cultural meaning. As such, the sari has become the ultimate and must-have Indian fashion garment that is still very popular today.

Published in Oct 2021

The Evolution of Indian Sculptures in Bronze Age and Beyond

The Harappan civilization is marked by a large number of copper objects. Apart from making artefacts out of pure copper, Harappan craftsperson alloyed copper with arsenic, tin or nickel. Copper and bronze artefacts included vessels, spears, knives, short swords, arrowheads, axes, fish hooks, needles, mirrors, rings and bangles. Usually, tools like knives, axes and chisels, which needed hardened edges were alloyed. At Mohenjodaro, the number of bronze tools increased from six per cent to 23 per cent from the lower to the higher levels. One hoard found at Harappa consisted of a large cooking pot with a bronze cover. Inside were several copper tools. Seals were also made using Bronze as part of Harappan craft. Apart from utilitarian items made from Bronze and copper, a few pieces of metal sculpture have been found at Harappan sites. Two bronze female figurines were found at Mohenjodaro. One of them is the famous ‘dancing girl’.

Published in Oct 2021

Apsaras in Indian Mythology and Art

The apsaras are the celestial nymphs living in svargaloka (heaven). They perhaps got their name since they are supposed to move among waters, among the clouds. Their main work is to please Indra the lord of the gods, by dancing and singing. Indra often deputes them to seduce the sages engaged in severe austerities, since they may become more powerful than himself if they succeed. It also touches on the craftsmanship involved in creating brass Apsara sculptures, showcasing the skill and artistry required. Overall, the article celebrates the fusion of mythology and artistry, illustrating how Apsaras continue to inspire and captivate through their representation in brass.

Published in Oct 2021

Depictions of Bodhisattva in different cultures

A reformation in Buddhism at the beginning of our era led to the formation of a new branch known as Mahayana Buddhism. It distinguished itself from the ego-oriented Theravada Buddhism (the original Buddhism), with its arhats (someone who attains salvation) and Pratyeka Buddha (someone who became an arhat without anyone’s help or guidance). The fellow-human oriented Mahayana Buddhism introduced the divine helpers or bodhisattvas who appear on the path to liberation. A bodhisattva is a being (sattva) who has reached enlightenment (bodhi), or nirvana, but who delays entry into parinirvana out of compassion for muddle-headed humanity. Bodhisattvas help people and guide the deceased to heaven. The concept of Bodhisattva was founded upon a significant event in Gautama Buddha’s life. When Siddharta left his home, he had wanted to take his son Rahula with him. But he couldn't do it as the mother’s hand lay protectively over the child. After many years of the inward storm, he won his reconciliation with life when he rediscovered the depth of humanity in that protecting gesture of the mother’s hand even in sleep. And so he said, “As a mother protects her only son, so let everyone cultivate a boundless compassion towards all that has life.” It is this great and enduring compassion that shifts the emphasis from the Hinayana (Theravada Buddhism) ideal of Arhat who seeks enlightenment for himself to that of the Bodhisattva who does not cease striving till the whole world is guided by him towards enlightenment. As long as there is suffering, the bodhisattvas will remain. Here let us look at some of the important bodhisattvas and their depiction in various cultures.

Published in Oct 2021

Nataraja – A figure of Apocalypse and Creation

Saivagama Tantras, the ritualistic sacred texts of Sadhana or devout single-pointed worship, devised an artistic form to which all human devotion can be directed — Nataraja, the supreme dancer. The form of Nataraja has been hailed as the highest concept of art. Ancient Saivites were known to practise a dance-drama at the famous Nataraja Temple of Chidambaram. In the holy month of Margazhi (December-January) in Tamil Nadu, on the day with the asterism Tiruvadirai, the Arudra festival is especially important to Lord Nataraja in all temples, particularly Chidambaram. Among the five elements, the subtlest space whose essence is sound, is represented by the Akasa Lingam in the temple dedicated to this concept, Chidambaram. Lord Nataraja personifies the descent from the subtlest as an act of creation and also the ascent from the grossest as an act of dissolution. Ananda Tandavam — the Blissful dance — is the dance of Nataraja of Chidambaram. Tirumoolar in his Tantra Tirumandiram refers to it as ‘Nadanta’ posture — the pinnacle of meditative bliss — even beyond the realm of unheard sound or Shiva Vyapti, the ultimate! The dance hall is Chit Akasha, the hall of Supreme Consciousness.

Published in Oct 2021

Bomkai Art – Where Simplicity meets Extravagance

Odisha is considered one of the major handloom-concentrated states in India and its handloom products are recognized all over the country and abroad for their highly artistic and intricate designs, color combinations, and durability even today. The handloom originated from a small village called Bomkai in Patrapur Tahsil of Ganjam district and originally it was woven with coarser cotton yarn. The characteristic of this traditional Bomkai lies in the stepping and shaft formula and the regular motif remains the same in any composition. The uniqueness is that there is no fixed layout for the Anchal panels developed by extra weft in various colors.

Published in Oct 2021

Lord Hanuman – A Prototype of the Ideal Worshipper

Hanuman, the ancient monkey-divinity of India: for many, he represents the force of life in man's struggle to exist. He is most known for his devotion to the god-king Rama, and for his exploits as leader of the monkey army that helped save Rama's princess from the demon-king of Lanka. Yet in northern parts of the country, Hanuman is a god of great importance in his own right. There he is worshiped as the epitome of strength and vitality; popular legends associate him not so much with the self-restrained Rama as with Siva, possessor of creative and destructive energy. Hanuman is well known throughout India-rural and urban, north and south. He appears in much Sanskrit and vernacular dramatic literature, and in epic poems; he is the central hero of many folk stories, and a popular subject of village plays and dances. His likeness in stone and wood adorns many shrines.

Published in Oct 2021

The Evolution of Indian Sculptures

Does a dull, slightly blackened piece of a metal artefact lie in a corner of your room? Well, I have seen a lot of houses with such a scenario. When asked they say “it lost its shine and is no longer of aesthetic beauty.” The fact is that it still has its shine. It's only a matter of polishing it nicely before it will turn into its bright gold-yellowish colour and spread its beauty and charm in the room. Yes, we are talking about brass here, a highly underrated metal in present times. But did you know that brass had a glorious past in India, in fact worldwide, a past wherein it was put into use for making everything from household utensils to guns and canons? Let us briefly look at how important a role brass played in the development of Indian culture and society. Brass was a commonly used alloy in India as early as the first century B.C. Brass articles of the first century B.C. or A.D. have been found on the excavation of ancient stupas. General Excavation of stupas at Manikyalaya revealed a copper box enclosing a brass cylindrical box cast and beautifully turned on the lathe. The great tope at Manikyalaya has been identified to be a mausoleum of the Indo-Scythian King Kanishka (first century B.C. or A.D.). Another inscribed brass urn of the same date as the former has been discovered in a tope about 30 miles west of Kabul in the district of Wardak. This was similar to the ordinary water vessels used in India.

Published in Oct 2021

The Glory of Jamawars of Kashmir

The glory, and the colors of nature captured skillfully on cloth characterize the famous Jamawars of Kashmir. "Jama" means robe and "war" is yard. King and nobles bought the woven fabric by the yard, wearing it as a gown or using it as a wrap or shawl. The base of the Jamawar was always wool-with perhaps addition of a little cotton. The brocaded parts were woven in silk or pashmina. Most of the designs were floral, with the kairy or paisley as the predominant motif. The art of weaving a Jamawar was painstaking and intricate one. Several kannis or little wooden shuttles of different colors were used for a single weft line of the fabric. Upto 50 colors could be worked into one shawl-the most popular colors being zard (yellow), sufed (white), mushki (black), ferozi (turquoise), ingari (green), uda (purple), gulnar (crimson) and kirmiz (scarlet). Months of hard work went into the preparation for each Jamawar, with not more than an inch being added per day in a 48-inch width of material.

Published in Oct 2021

Baluchari Art – Intricate Weaves and Visual Narratives

Comprising saris, shawls and handkerchiefs, this textile is probably the only woven narrative in India. Every piece holds an interesting story in its folds — the lavish lifestyles of Nawabs and European sahibs and bibis. Though much is not known about its origins and also why the tradition stopped, over the years an effort has been made to revisit and revive Baluchari. The Baluchari saree was one of the National Award winners among the main weaving styles in the year 2009 and 2010 presented by the then President of India. hrough time, the visual language of textiles has offered up vital clues to the prevailing social contexts, to ideas of what was desirable and fashionable, to the economy and the body politic that was significant at their time of production and use. Examples abound from the late-16th-century woven Vrindavan Vastra with its images inspired from the Hindu text of the Bhagavata Purana, and on to today’s graphic t-shirts this widespread means of communication continues to endure. The late-19th-century pictorial Baluchari weave can be viewed through this prism of history and context with its enduring continuum echoing its past.

Published in Sep 2021

Looking to Buy Indian Art? Here are Some tips Worth Considering

India has a rich history to boast about with regard to arts and paintings. Paintings have always been an integral part of our culture for centuries. It is only through stories woven in artwork that we know so much about our heritage today. From the prehistoric cave paintings to the modern Indian paintings these have changed and evolved to a large extent. Bhimbetka in Madhya Pradesh, discovered and explored only in 1957, is one of the richest sources of primitive art in the world, with paintings that come right into the historic period. In the Ajanta caves, we can find locales, figures, and episodes of the Jataka stories. The Ajanta artists showed themselves capable of depicting the most moving scenes in the life of Buddha with a classic restraint that has won them a place among the most expressive paintings in the world. The mural traditions and miniature paintings also evolved in the sixth to the eleventh century which is also symbols of great artistic creations.

Published in Sep 2021

Indian Formal Wear for Women and Men

Have you ever looked at a piece of Indian fabric like a saree, a lehenga, or a Sherwani and marveled at the flowing cuts, ornate designs, hand-crafted patterns, texture of the fabric, and unique motifs? Exotic India has a vast collection of pure and authentic items inspired by Indian culture. Our array of formal wear is unmatchable with the added advantage that each piece portrays a traditional touch to it. We are indeed proud and happy about the heritage that we carry and want to bring it to people who share the same passion for their culture and traditions. Visit our website and browse through an amazing catalogue of Indian products and we assure you that you won’t be disappointed!

Published in Sep 2021

Top 5 Women's Salwar Kameez that Must Be In their Wardrobe

It's not a disputed fact that women have the luxury of lots of options to choose from when it comes to wearing an outfit. From our traditional sarees and Lehengas to suits, there is a wide range of female attire in India. There are many different kinds of clothing traditionally worn by Indian women, which are mostly associated with the local culture, religion, and climate which makes the list really vast! Indian fashion is known for its unique and ethnic types of garb. The most common and most popular outfit that we have is undoubtedly the Salwar Kameez. Just like the famous saree, it is traditional attire that can go from simple and comfortable to intricate and decorative. Even among Salwar Kameez, you will have a wide variety to choose from, from Anarkali to Jacket style Salwar kameez. Confusing again, right? So let's look at five Salwar Kameez that must definitely be in your wardrobe.

Published in Sep 2021

Bandhani –The Tie and Die Art since Time Immemorial

The article emphasizes the social and ceremonial roles Bandhani plays, especially in traditional clothing for weddings and festivals. Additionally, it touches on the contemporary revival of Bandhani, with modern designers incorporating this age-old art into new fashion trends. Overall, it celebrates Bandhani as a rich heritage craft that continues to thrive. This craft is one of the oldest in the world for making coloured designs on a fabric. The technique involves dyeing a fabric which is tied tightly with a thread at several points in various colors, thus producing a variety of patterns like Bandhni, Lehriya, Mothda, Ekdali and Shikari depending on the manner in which the cloth is tied. There is a magical quality about Bandhini: vibrant colours, arresting combinations, dramatic swirls and twirl – “Bandhini” derives its name from the Hindi word Bandhan which means ties, relation and therefore tying up. It is an antique art generally practiced mainly in Western India. Bandhani is being sold all over India and the demand has increased over the past few decades. Sales go up during the festive and wedding seasons in India. Majority of the market is domestic. If talking in terms of International demand, Safas and turbans of various kinds are more popular.

Published in Sep 2021

Batik Paintings – The Javanese Wax Resistant Fibre Art

Batik painting is a highly beautiful and an ancient art form. Batik paintings represent a highly unique form of art involving various figures and patterns drawn on the pieces of fabrics. These paintings are believed to have originated in Indonesia wherein the original word referred to the dots on clothes. Batik represents the wax-resist dye technique, used in textiles. This art is believed to be more than one thousand years old. Batik art work is widely practised in regions like Java (Indonesia) and India. India is known for its rich tradition in Batik paintings and truly exquisite works of Batik art continue to be procured from different regions of India. From the Javanese origin the word batik is taken.

Published in Sep 2021

Kalamkari – The Art Comprising Giant Tapestries to Small Squares

Amongst the Indian textile tradition, the simple cotton Kalamkari fabric had a greater impact and revolutionised the garment trade in the 18th and 19th centuries. The vibrant jewel-bright colours, printed and painted, caught the fancy of women in England and France and became the fashion for daily wear. Kalamkari fabrics, dubbed as chintz, by the English traders, formed a major part of the trade of the East India Company. Kalamkari is an ancient Indian art that originated about 3000 years ago. It derives its name from Kalam meaning Pen, and Kari meaning work, literally Pen-work. The Kalamkari artist uses a bamboo or date palm stick pointed at one end with a bundle of fine hair attached to this pointed end to serve as the brush or pen. These paintings were earlier drawn on cotton fabric only, but now we can see these paintings on silk and other materials as well. Centuries ago, folk singers and painters used to wander from one village to other, narrating stories of Hindu mythology to the village people. But with course of time, the process of telling tales transformed into canvas painting and that’s when Kalamkari art first saw the light of day. The Kalamkari art includes both, printing and painting.

Published in Sep 2021

Make Music with Your Feet- The Charm of Indian Anklets

When thinking of jewelry, one always immediately considers what earrings, necklace, bracelet and rings to wear. However, beyond the most common categories of jewelry, body jewelry includes styles that one should not overlook. The anklet, in particular, is one style that is subtle yet sexy and actually steeped in history. Beyond a common accessory or piece of jewelry, in Indian culture, anklets actually have a lot of meaning. Also known as a payal in hindi, the piece of jewelry that fits around the ankle is worn by married Indian women, usually on the left ankle. In fact, it is traditionally gifted to a newly married Indian woman upon first arriving at her new husband’s home. However, anklets aren’t actually only reserved for married women. Unmarried women also wear anklets. For single women, the piece of jewelry is a symbol of both their bravery and pride. Wearing one on the right ankle could also signify that the woman is in search of a partner.

Published in Sep 2021

The Festival of Navaratri in Hinduism: Matra & Pooja Vidhi

The Hindu festival of Navratri is celebrated for nine nights and ten days. The word Navratri itself has quite a literal meaning. It comes from the Sanskirt words Nava, which means nine, and ratri, which means nights. According to a few Hindu texts, including the Vaishnava Puranas and the Shakta, there are actually two or four seasons where Navratri is celebrated. Two of these are specifically known as the Sharada Navaratri and the Vasanta Navaratri. The most prominent and observed of the Navratri festivals is the Sharada Navaratri, which is celebrated near the autumn equinox, in the months of September or October, referred to in the Hindu calendar as the months of Ashbin and Ashwayuja respectively. Regardless of the specific time of year that the Navaratri is celebrated, all of the festivals celebrate the triumph of good over evil, and specifically, are in honor of the noble Hindu goddess Durgu and her victory over the malicious Mahishasura. Discusses the significance and traditions associated with the Navratri festival in India.

Published in Sep 2021

The Perfect Family Heirloom for Generations - Eternal Beauty of Indian Saree

A quintessential item of Indian fashion is undoubtedly the Sari. In fact, when considering Indian style, the first thing that many often think of is the sari. The word “sari” itself comes from the Sanskrit word “sati”, which means strip of cloth. From the very meaning of the word, the Indian sari, which can also be spelled as “saree”, is one long piece of cloth, which is unstitched and usually measures between four and a half to nine yards long and twenty-four to forty-seven inches wide. Now, a sari is not just any simple piece of cloth. Saris come in a wide range of eye-catching colors, and striking designs that often feature various prints, embroideries and embellishments, and are made of different fabrics. There are said to be approximately thirty different regional varieties of Saris in India. The nation’s well-known tradition and expertise in dyeing, printing and silk weaving fabrics all come alive in the countless saris worn by women in India and beyond the country’s shores.

Published in Sep 2021

Green Tara: The Mother of Liberation

Buddhism is full of unique religious expressions, in which faith combines with culture to shape all those beliefs that make up this ancient religion. Within Buddhism there are many deities with special characteristics that are worthy of veneration by believers; whether they are from Hinduism or other beliefs, these deities are important and the rituals to worship them are always present. That is why deities such as Tara, a goddess with many forms in which the green Tara stands out, is important to Buddhists, as this divine mother has qualities such as helping you achieve success and get ahead.

Published in Sep 2021

10 Ways to Style Indian Stone Jewelry

Indian stone jewelry is beautifully decorated and available in various stone and precious metal types. Sterling silver, amethyst, and citrine stone jewelry are a few of many gems seen adorning the runways of Indian Fashion Week 2021. From chandelier earrings to choker style necklaces, adding bold indian accessories isn’t a challenge. Keep reading to learn how you can achieve high fashion looks by creating casual and evening outfits with indian stone jewelry! A collar-style necklace is the perfect way to accentuate your neckline. This look also allows you to skip earrings and bracelet accessories, since the intricate detailing of your necklace will become the focal point. You can add a full skirt with a ruffle hem and an all-over embroidered design. This indian stone accessory works best with lighter, neutral colors against darker colors, like white and blue. You can wear your hair in a sweet half up, half down hairstyle and light makeup. For a royal touch, add a matching, sheer dupatta scarf!

Published in Sep 2021

Some Interesting Facts about Banarasi Sarees

Banarasi Saris originate from the city of Varanasi, also known as Banaras, which is, naturally, within the region of Uttar Pradesh, India. It was during the Mughal period in the 14th century when the art of intricate weaving began to flourish in the city. During those times, the exquisite silk of the Banarasi Sari was exclusively crafted for royalty and was woven using genuine gold and silver threads. It could often take as long as one year in order to handcraft these silks. Suffice it to say, when it came to garments, the Banarasi Sari represented the pinnacle of quality craftsmanship, luxury, and extravagance.

Published in Sep 2021

How to Style a Dupatta Scarf in the Modern Age

A dupatta is a traditional headscarf (usually worn over the shoulders), within Asian cultures including India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Dupatta is a combination of two Sanskrit words which means two or double (du) and (patta), which means piece of clothing. The earliest remembrance can be dated back to the Indus Valley civilization when they were worn by both men and women. Males mostly wore their scarves to symbolize royalty and were mainly used to cover the upper body area. An all-over white outfit with linen-style pants and a long tunic is the ideal relaxed look and can be paired with a blue dupatta that has geometric prints and patterns. If the overall look is more casual, the dupatta can be worn by wrapping the fabric around the neck once, allowing it to drape open, and adding a waist belt. A dress that has a sweetheart or square neckline and a ruffle hem pairs well with flat slippers and chandelier earrings.

Published in Sep 2021

Mehendi-A Fragrant Indian Art

No one does body art like in India, where the craft has existed for thousands of years. Mehendi or Mehndi, as it’s also known, is the ancient form of temporary body art or skin decoration. In fact, the tradition goes so far back that archeologists have found mummies with forms of Mehendi on their hands. You could say that it’s the early ancestor of today’s common tattoo but one that isn’t permanent. In Western cultures, the temporary skin art is widely known as the henna tattoo. Unlike permanent tattoo ink, Mehendi is applied on the skin using a paste that’s derived from the crushed dried leaves of the henna plant. Hence its western name. A paintbrush, gold rod, plastic cone, toothpick or stick are the usual tools used to apply the paste onto the skin. While the color of the paste is usually a dark brown, it can also vary in shade with Mehendi sometimes applied in red color tones.

Published in Sep 2021

From the Jewellery Box of the Goddesses : Traditional Indian Temple Jewellery

As the saying goes, all that glitters is not gold. However, in India, well, it often is. A magnificent part of Indian culture is traditional Indian jewelry. Imagine intricately formed, ornate gold adorned with the most stunningly brilliant gemstones, pearls, and diamonds. There are actually three major classifications of traditional Indian jewelry. There’s bridal jewelry, spiritual jewelry, and, last but not least, temple jewelry. The origins of temple jewelry can be traced back to South India in particular. From the ninth century until the sixteenth century, the region of South India was ruled by the Chola, Pandya, and Krishnadeva Raya dynasties, who were all fine jewelry connoisseurs. Ruling for such a long period of time, temple jewelry became an intrinsic part of both religious and cultural tradition.

Published in Sep 2021

Meet Jhumka – The History of Indian Earrings

If you’ve ever attended a wedding or special occasion, then the chances are that you saw dozens of women wearing jhumka. They’re a style of earrings popular on the Indian subcontinent and hold a cultural significance, dating back to the Mughal Empire. Jewelry is the ultimate form of self-expression and an opportunity to reconnect with your heritage through a form of living art. You can find jhumka earrings in almost every shape and style, each incorporating the signature bell shape into the design. No woman’s jewelry box is complete without a pair of jhumka earrings. These timeless earrings double as an ornament, giving you a statement piece that is sure to be the center of attention wherever you go.

Published in Sep 2021

The Heritage and Evolution of Pattachitra Paintings

Paintings are one of the oldest forms of storytelling in the world. Pattachitra art is one of the oldest forms of art from Pattachitra – giving the artform its name. This art style was used to depict images of Hindu mythological stories and fascinating characters. You can spot Pattachitra art with its distinctive bold colors and Italian craftsmanship. If you want to add a unique piece of Indian art to your home, there is nothing better to choose than a Pattachitra painting. These paintings incorporate Indian customs, rituals, and values in a unique and beautiful way that celebrates the Hindu faith and religion. This traditional art has evolved to appear in clothing and accessories, becoming living art that you can incorporate into your everyday life.

Published in Sep 2021

The History of Pashmina Shawls

Pashmina cashmere is spun using the downy undercoat of the Himalayan Mountain goat. These goats famously live at a high altitude of above 15,000 ft. The colder climate of the Himalayan Mountain range means that the quality of the wool is considerably higher. The Chyangra goat is the source of the cashmere for pashmina shawls. For generations, Indian and Nepalese women have been passing down pashmina shawls as part of their daughter’s dowry. This personal connection and idea of a pashmina shawl as a sign of affection dates back to their origin. The artisan behind making pashmina garments and items is believed to date back to 3000 B.C. It’s believed Caesar was a fan of pashmina fabrics.

Published in Sep 2021

10 Must-Have Traditional Handmade Bedspreads from India

Ethnic traditional bedspreads from India are full of vibrant colors! This makes it easy to add a touch of culture to your room decor. Traditional Indian quilting dates back as early as the 17th century, when the technique was used to make clothing such as hunting coats. Usually made from chintz fabric, which was dyed and painted cotton, each was made with running stitches.

Published in Sep 2021

A Journey into Handloom Weaving

This article is for handloom users keen to understand more about the process and those interested in exploring handlooms for the first time. We would like to acquaint you with the different stages in the process, where individual fibres come together to become beautiful fabrics and how you can distinguish pure handloom from imitations. Knowing handlooms also allows you to understand the challenges industry is facing in current times.

Published in Aug 2021

How to wear an Indian Saree - A Complete Step By Step Guide

A six step demonstration of how to easily drape a Saree.

Published in Jan 2000