US Vice President, JD Vance to visit Jaipur tomorrow with family

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April 21, 2025, 11:38 AM

There are moments in life that test not just the limits of the body, but the boundaries of the soul. For Anurag Maloo, that moment came high on the icy slopes of Mt. Annapurna—8,091 meters above sea level—where life hung by the thinnest of threads. What followed wasn’t just a miraculous survival story; it became the birth of a movement. A message to the world. A reminder that even from the darkest depths, a brighter purpose can rise.

Today, that same man—who survived one of the longest successful CPR efforts in medical history after being trapped in a Himalayan crevasse for over 72 hours—has been named a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader (2025). It’s not just an accolade. It’s a nod to the grit, grace, and global vision of a man who came back from the brink to lead with heart.

The Fall: Into the Silence

In April 2023, Anurag was attempting to descend from Camp III to Camp II on Mt. Annapurna when he slipped and plummeted into a crevasse at 6,000 meters. The mountain, infamous for its treacherous terrain and deadly statistics, had claimed many before him. But this story would turn out differently.

For three days and nights, Anurag remained trapped in the icy void—alone, injured, and unconscious. Above him, the world rallied. His brother, Aashish Maloo, launched a heartfelt online petition demanding urgent, specialized rescue intervention. Mountaineers, sherpas, and supporters across India and Nepal joined the outcry. Time was running out.

And then—a miracle. Rescuers found him alive, albeit in critical condition, inside the crevasse. What followed was a Herculean medical effort involving sustained CPR and emergency interventions at Pokhara’s Manipal Hospital. Doctors later said that his survival defied every medical expectation.

The Rise: A Purpose Reborn

But Anurag Maloo is not just a survivor—he’s a transformer of adversity.

The Miracle Man of Annapurna: Anurag Maloo’s Journey from a Himalayan Crevasse to the World Stage

From that near-death experience was born The Voice of Glaciers Foundation (TVGF)—a global climate advocacy platform driven by lived experience, storytelling, and bold activism. With glaciers melting and ecosystems collapsing, Anurag’s fall became a metaphor for the planet’s fragility—and his rise, a clarion call for urgent climate action.

Through TVGF, Anurag amplifies stories from the frontlines of climate change—particularly from mountainous regions where melting ice is not just a warning sign but a lived reality.

The Climber, The Catalyst

Before the accident, Anurag was already a name known in startup and social impact circles. A mountaineer, impact leader, and venture ecosystem builder, he had spent over 15 years guiding early-stage startups, building entrepreneurial ecosystems, and empowering changemakers across the globe. From Techstars and Seedstars to Startup Weekend and UNLEASH, his fingerprints are on countless ventures driving innovation and inclusive growth.

As the Founder & Managing Director of Orophile Ventures, he backs startups aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). His Climbing4SDGs initiative, recognized by the United Nations, fuses high-altitude expeditions with high-impact advocacy—literally taking the SDGs to new heights.

He’s climbed across continents—scaling peaks in over 60 countries on all 7 continents—but his true summit has always been impact.

The Leader: Recognition and Ripple Effects

In 2025, Anurag was named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, a title reserved for trailblazers reshaping the future. For a man who survived against the odds, this recognition isn’t just symbolic—it’s seismic.

His long list of achievements reads like a globe-trotter’s dream and a changemaker’s resume:

REX Karamveer Chakra Awardee (2013)
RISE Global Hero Award (2023)
Former Teach for India Fellow, Jagriti Yatri, RSA Fellow (FRSA)
AIYD Young Leader, SEALA alumnus, SIBF Member
Founding Curator of WEF Global Shapers Ajmer Hub

And beyond boardrooms and base camps, Anurag gives back—serving on the boards of TiTLi, an innovative Early Childhood Care initiative, and AVP School, championing inclusive education.

The Message: From the Mountain to the World

Anurag’s story is more than a tale of mountaineering. It’s a call to courage, a hymn to hope, and a manual for modern resilience. In his own words:

“The mountain didn’t break me. It rebuilt me.”

He speaks not just of survival, but of reinvention. Not just of pain, but of purpose. Today, he is a sought-after global keynote speaker, bringing his lessons on technology, sustainability, adventure, and human spirit to stages from TEDx events to international universities and corporations.

The Legacy: Annapurna’s Anurag

He is known today by many names—“The Miracle Man”, “Annapurna’s Anurag”, “Son of the Himalayas”—but his real legacy lies in the hearts he ignites.

Anurag Maloo is not just climbing mountains anymore. He’s moving them.

And for every one of us facing our own crevasse—our dark, uncertain moments—his journey is a reminder: we can rise. Not in spite of the fall, but because of it.

Because sometimes, the deepest valleys reveal the highest callings.

UNESCO Recognises Bhagavad Gita and Natyashastra

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April 21, 2025, 11:17 AM

In a moment that celebrates India’s rich intellectual and cultural heritage, two iconic texts—the Bhagavad Gita and Bharata’s Natyashastra—have been enshrined in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register. This honor places them among the world’s most treasured documentary heritages, ensuring their preservation and accessibility for generations to come.

But this isn’t just about old manuscripts gathering dust in archives—this is about living traditions, universal truths, and the timeless conversation between the past and the future.

Memory of the World: More Than Just a List

UNESCO launched the Memory of the World Programme in 1992 with a visionary goal: to safeguard the documentary heritage of humanity. From ancient manuscripts and oral traditions to photographs and digital media, this initiative protects the fragile roots of our global memory—before they are lost to time, neglect, or disaster.

Updated every two years, the Memory of the World Register is a global hall of fame for texts that hold “outstanding universal value.” In this ever-growing mosaic of human culture, India now proudly contributes 14 radiant tiles.

Bhagavad Gita: The Song of the Self

A battlefield. A chariot. A warrior in crisis. And a divine charioteer who becomes his philosopher.

The Bhagavad Gita—700 verses nestled in the Mahabharata—captures a moment of epic hesitation and transcendent clarity. As Arjuna contemplates withdrawing from the bloodshed of war, Lord Krishna unveils the grand tapestry of dharma (duty), karma (action), and bhakti (devotion). The Gita doesn’t just belong to Hinduism—it’s a spiritual compass that has guided minds from Mahatma Gandhi to Albert Einstein.

Blending Vedic, Buddhist, and Jain philosophies, this philosophical dialogue continues to resonate, teaching us that the battlefield is not just Kurukshetra—but our own hearts.

Natyashastra: Where Emotions Dance and Stories Sing

If the Gita speaks to the soul, Natyashastra is the blueprint for how the soul expresses itself.

Attributed to the sage Bharata, this ancient treatise on performance arts stretches across a mind-boggling 36,000 verses. It lays down the grammar for theatre, dance, and music while offering a masterclass in aesthetics. The central idea? Rasa—the distilled emotion or essence that an audience experiences through art.

From classical Kathakali stages to Bollywood sets, echoes of the Natyashastra still shape how stories move us, literally and emotionally.

India’s Growing Footprint in the Register

With the addition of the Bhagavad Gita and Natyashastra, India’s presence in the Memory of the World Register now stands at a proud 14 entries, each a chapter in a grand narrative of creativity, knowledge, and resilience. Here’s a quick look at this extraordinary bookshelf:

IAS Tamil Medical Manuscripts (1997) – Over 500 texts on palm leaves with ancient Siddha and Ayurvedic remedies.
Saiva Manuscripts (2005) – Shaivite Agamas and hymns preserved from the 6th century onward.
Rigveda (2007) – The oldest of the Vedas, and arguably the world’s first literary text.
Tarikh-e-Khandan-e-Timuriyah (2011) – Mughal-era history written under Emperor Akbar’s watch.
Laghukalachakratantrarajatika Vimalaprabha (2011) – Tibetan Buddhist text exploring tantra, astronomy, and more.
Shantinatha Charitra (2013) – A 14th-century Jain manuscript, complete with stunning miniature illustrations.
Gilgit Manuscripts (2017) – Early Buddhist texts written on birch bark in Gupta script.
Maitreyavyakarana (2017) – Predicts the arrival of the future Buddha, Maitreya.
Abhinavagupta Manuscripts (2023) – A treasure trove of Kashmiri philosophical and artistic thought.
Ramcharitmanas (2024) – Tulsidas’s poetic retelling of the Ramayana in Awadhi, beloved across Asia.
Panchatantra (2024) – Ancient animal fables that teach with wit and wisdom.
Sahrdayaloka-Locana (2024) – Foundational texts in Indian literary theory, introducing the idea of dhvani (suggested meaning).

Global Resonance, Timeless Relevance

What makes the Gita and Natyashastra truly remarkable is their global appeal. These aren’t just cultural treasures locked within a single tradition—they are beacons of wisdom, creativity, and human insight.

Translated into dozens of languages, the Bhagavad Gita has become a philosophical touchstone for thinkers across the globe. Meanwhile, the Natyashastra remains essential reading for performers and scholars of theatre and aesthetics, not just in India, but in many parts of Asia and beyond.

Their recognition by UNESCO underscores a powerful truth: ancient India wasn’t just rich in monuments—it was a civilization of ideas.

Why This Matters Today

In an age where trends fade in minutes and memories are made of megabytes, these texts remind us of something deeper. They’re not relics—they’re roadmaps. They guide us on how to act with purpose (karma yoga), how to feel with depth (rasa theory), and how to preserve what truly matters.

India’s manuscripts aren’t just about heritage—they’re about humanity. And as they take their place in the global archive, they invite the world to listen, to watch, and to wonder.

Rekha Nemani is new president for WICCI Architecture Rajasthan Chapter

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April 19, 2025, 11:07 PM

The Women’s Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WICCI), Architecture Rajasthan Chapter—comprising over 220 female architects, hosted a Gala Event and Handing Over Ceremony to celebrate past achievements and welcome the new leadership for the 2025–26 term.

The event highlighted the milestones of the previous term, with Past President Ar. Kavita Jain presenting key accomplishments and event highlights. The roadmap for the upcoming term was unveiled by the New President Ar. Rekha Nemani and Vice President Ar. Ritu Khandelwal, outlining an inspiring vision for the chapter’s future.

The evening, organised by WICCI, which continues to champion inclusive growth through knowledge-sharing sessions, field visits, and community initiatives. also featured an insightful presentation by Ar. Kavita Jain on “Preserving Our Heritage,” emphasising the role of architects in cultural conservation.

The event was graced by WICCI council advisors Shamini Shankar Jain and Shalini Gehlot, along with active participation from council members Ar. Preethi Agrawal, Ar. Geetanjali Kasliwal, Ar. Rina Surana, Ar. Meenu Varshney, Ar. Aditi Taneja, Ar. Anika, Ar. Saguna, Ar. Pooja Agrawal, and Ar. Akansha Modi.

Things To Adapt Regarding SAFe Product Owner Certification

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April 18, 2025, 5:33 PM

The Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) functions as a major implementation method which enables agile practices at enterprise scales throughout evolving agile approaches. Product Owners act as fundamental connectors through which technical delivery connects to business direction within organizational settings. Professionals can prove their capability as Product Owners through formal certification provided by SAFe. The article explores five important factors involving role specifications along with necessary understanding and implementation barriers as well as organizational implications and ongoing development avenues for people who use a SAFe Product Owner Certification.

1. Embracing The Strategic-Tactical Balance Required

The SAFe Product Owner position requires qualified individuals to grasp a special balance between tactical execution and strategic thinking. SAFe Product Owners work in complex corporate contexts that need collaboration across numerous agile teams and alignment with portfolio-level objectives, in contrast to conventional product ownership positions that are restricted to single teams. This enlarged scope calls for the development of abilities to convert strategic vision into workable tasks while preserving uniformity across heterogeneous teams.

Successful certified professionals are able to make value-based decisions that take into account both the short-term demands of the team and the long-term objectives of the company. For many professionals used to more clearly defined product roles, this strategic-tactical duality represents a fundamental shift that necessitates a conscious modification of thought processes and communication approaches in order to effectively span organizational boundaries while keeping value delivery as the primary focus.

2. Mastering The SAFe Knowledge Architecture

A major obstacle that calls for careful research and conceptual integration is adjusting to the extensive knowledge architecture that underpins SAFe certification. Understanding SAFe’s fundamental ideas, crucial procedures, and implementation trends at various organizational levels is required for the certification. Candidates need to fully understand how, within the framework, Product Owners support portfolio management, corporate transformation, and program execution. This entails being proficient in SAFe-specific ideas such as weighted shortest task first prioritization, value streams, architectural runway, and the Program Increment planning process. Beyond mechanical procedures, the knowledge architecture includes behavioral elements that are necessary for successful implementation, such as facilitation methods, leadership behaviors, and negotiating tactics.

3. Navigating Certification Examination Complexities

A complex exam framework that assesses both theoretical knowledge and practical application skills must be navigated in order to obtain SAFe Product Owner certification. In contrast to straightforward multiple-choice tests, the certification exam includes scenario-based questions that call for in-depth knowledge of intricate business scenarios. Candidates must show that they are adept at applying SAFe concepts to situations that are unclear and may appear to support more than one solution. The test assesses knowledge in a variety of areas, including as backlog management, business value analysis, facilitating program increment planning, and cross-team communication strategies.

Realistic organizational difficulties are frequently presented in questions, forcing applicants to retain alignment with SAFe principles while juggling conflicting objectives. In order to successfully adapt, one must learn methodical techniques for breaking down scenario-based questions, identify chances for pattern-matching in various situations, and steer clear of typical misinterpretation traps that are purposefully incorporated into the test framework.

4. Implementing Role-Specific Practices In Organizational Context

The adaptation process doesn’t end with earning SAFe Product Owner certification; individuals still need to apply role-specific techniques in their own organizational settings. In order to overcome this implementation difficulty, theoretical information must be translated into workable strategies that take into account team dynamics, legacy procedures, and company cultures. Certified Product Owners frequently find that, while maintaining the fundamental ideas that propel value delivery, they must modify the framework’s prescriptive recommendations to suit organizational reality.

Recognizing which aspects of the framework may be modified to meet particular organizational demands and which should remain non-negotiable is essential to successful adaptation. Many certified professionals discover that in order to lead their businesses through the required changes in task prioritization, value definition, and delivery cadences, they must cultivate change management skills.

5. Sustaining Professional Growth Through Continuous Learning

Aside from initial certification, ongoing learning is required due to the fast changing nature of SAFe as a framework and product management as a scientific field. The market’s changing expectations for product development methodologies, new best practices, and frequent framework upgrades all require Certified SAFe Product Owners to adjust. For this continuous adaptation, intentional learning practices that integrate a variety of knowledge sources, such as official SAFe publications, practitioner networks, industry conferences, and cross-disciplinary research, must be established.

To keep track of changing techniques and assess how well they apply to particular organizational difficulties, successful experts use customized knowledge management systems. For the purpose of sharing implementation experiences and working together to overcome shared challenges, many certified professionals see benefit in creating peer networks.

Conclusion

A substantial professional investment that necessitates adjustment in a number of areas is SAFe POPM Training in Hyderabad. Professionals set themselves up for success by being proficient in the strategic-tactical balance, complete knowledge architecture, assessment methodology, implementation techniques, and mentality of continual learning. In addition to changing credentials, this certification process essentially improves the practitioner’s capacity to provide business value through efficient product ownership in intricate organizational settings.

A Taste of Chhattisgarh: Culinary Stories from Raipur’s Heart

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April 18, 2025, 4:24 PM

Nestled in the heart of India, Chhattisgarh is a land where ancient traditions meet vibrant modernity—and nowhere is that more evident than in its food. The capital city of Raipur serves as the gateway to this gastronomic adventure, a melting pot where every lane has a story and every flavor has a legacy. Whether you’re walking through bustling markets or sipping chai at a roadside stall, the local cuisine invites you on a journey rooted in soil, season, and soul.

So loosen your belt, bring your appetite, and get ready to explore the essential dishes that make Chhattisgarh—and Raipur in particular—a culinary destination in its own right.

1. Muthia — Steamed to Perfection

Start your day the Chhattisgarhi way with Muthia, a humble-yet-hearty dish that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful. These steamed dumplings are made from spiced rice batter and are celebrated not only for their taste but for their healthier preparation—no frying here, just wholesome simplicity.

Popular across both urban kitchens and rural hearths, Muthia is a breakfast staple that proves great flavor doesn’t need oil, just tradition and technique.

2. Dubki Kadi — Comfort in a Bowl

Tangy, soulful, and deeply satisfying, Dubki Kadi is a local lunchtime favorite. This curd-based curry is laced with soft gram flour pakodas that bob in a sea of spiced goodness. It’s the kind of dish that wraps around your senses like a warm blanket, with flavors that dance between sour and savory.

Pair it with a bowl of hot rice and you’ve got a meal that’s as comforting as it is quintessentially Chhattisgarhi.

3. Aamat — Bastar’s Answer to Sambhar

From the lush, forested lands of Bastar comes Aamat, a dish as earthy as the region itself. Think of it as Chhattisgarh’s take on Sambhar—made from mixed vegetables, cooked down with ginger, garlic, and a riot of spices.

Traditionally slow-cooked in bamboo hollow tubes, Aamat soaks in the woody aroma and rustic charm of its forest origins. In urban kitchens, modern cookware replaces bamboo, but the essence remains unchanged: a celebration of nature on your plate.

4. Bhajia — The Street Food Star

No food journey in Raipur is complete without Bhajia—a crunchy, golden snack that has its own rhythm in the street food symphony. Whether it’s Mirchi Bhaji, Onion Bhaji, or Aloo Bhaji, each variation offers its own delightful crunch and spicy zing.

Made with gram flour and the perfect mix of spices, these deep-fried fritters are best enjoyed with green chutney and a hot cup of tea. Spicy, crispy, and soul-satisfying—Bhajia is an ode to the everyday joy of Chhattisgarh’s streets.

5. Bafuari — The Healthy Hero

Missing pakodas but not the oil? Bafuari is your answer. These steamed lentil dumplings are made from Chana Daal flour mixed with chopped veggies and mild spices. Rolled into small balls and steamed to a fluffy finish, Bafuari is proof that healthy doesn’t have to mean boring.

It’s light, protein-rich, and guilt-free—a snack with substance.

6. Sabudana Khichdi — Fasting, Feasting, Flavor

Often seen as fasting food, Sabudana Khichdi in Raipur transcends its occasional roots to become an everyday favorite. Made from soaked tapioca pearls tossed with vegetables and subtle spices, it’s light yet filling.

Nutritious and delicious, it’s a perfect breakfast or mid-day snack, offering a smooth, chewy texture balanced with crunch and spice.

7. Chila — The Savory Pancake with Heritage

A Taste of Chhattisgarh: Culinary Stories from Raipur’s Heart

A close cousin of the dosa, Chila is made from a batter of rice and Urad Dal, ladled onto a hot griddle and crisped to perfection. Served hot with green chutney, it’s the kind of breakfast that makes you want seconds (and thirds).

Simple, wholesome, and surprisingly addictive, Chila is the unsung hero of Chhattisgarh’s breakfast scene.

8. Faraa — The Desi Momo

If dumplings are your thing, Faraa is your dream come true. Made from rice dough stuffed with mildly spiced herbs like coriander, these bite-sized delights are steamed rather than fried, making them light and guilt-free.

A cross between momos and traditional Indian dumplings, Faraa is a healthy snack that delivers on both taste and texture.

9. Bara — The Festival Favorite

Bara is Chhattisgarh’s answer to the South Indian Vada, but with a regional twist. Crafted from fermented Urad Dal and mixed with spices and chopped vegetables, it’s lightly fried to a golden crisp on the outside while remaining soft within.

Served during festivals and village fairs, Bara is both a crowd-pleaser and a cultural staple—a delicious symbol of celebration.

10. Khurma — A Sweet Symphony

No meal is complete without dessert, and Khurma steps up to the occasion. This sweet treat is made from roasted vermicelli simmered in milk and sweetened with sugar syrup, then enriched with a generous helping of dry fruits.

Silky, nutty, and luxuriously rich, Khurma is the comfort dessert of Chhattisgarh.

11. Tilgur — The Makar Sankranti Must-Have

Come Makar Sankranti, every Chhattisgarhi home smells of Tilgur—sweet sesame laddoos made by mixing roasted sesame seeds, dark jaggery, and peanuts. Nutty, chewy, and heartwarming, these laddoos are more than a treat; they’re a tradition passed down through generations.

Where Tradition Meets Taste

Raipur isn’t just a city—it’s a living, breathing cookbook of traditions. Each dish tells a story, each flavor a memory of festivals, family, and food shared in community. Whether you’re a culinary adventurer or someone just seeking a good meal, the local flavors of Raipur offer a delicious insight into Chhattisgarh’s cultural richness.

So the next time you find yourself in this vibrant city, follow the aromas, listen for the sizzle, and let your taste buds guide you. You won’t just eat—you’ll experience Chhattisgarh, one unforgettable bite at a time.

The Mango Map of Karnataka: A Delicious Guide to Local Varieties, From Raspuri to Totapuri

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April 18, 2025, 4:17 PM

Come summer, and Karnataka dons a golden crown—its orchards bursting with the sweet, sun-kissed bounty of mangoes. Across its rolling plains and hilly hinterlands, from the humid coast to the drier interior, mangoes rule the season like royalty. But here’s the twist—this isn’t just about one mango. Karnataka boasts a deliciously diverse lineup, each variety with its own story, taste, and local following.

Let’s peel back the layers and dive into some of the most popular mango varieties in the state—where they grow, why they’re cherished, and what makes them unforgettable.

1. Raspuri — The Juicy Classic

The Mango Map of Karnataka: A Delicious Guide to Local Varieties, From Raspuri to Totapuri

Grown in: Tumkur, Channarayapatna, Mandya, and surrounding regions in southern and central Karnataka.

If mangoes had a fan club, Raspuri would be president. Known as the queen of mangoes in Karnataka, Raspuri is celebrated for its intensely sweet, aromatic flavour and juicy, slightly fibrous flesh.

Whether you’re gulping down a glass of fresh juice or licking your fingers after a bowl of aamras, Raspuri delivers an explosion of tropical delight. It’s not just a fruit—it’s a ritual of summer.

Pro tip: Let it ripen till it practically begs to be eaten. That’s when the magic happens.

2. Badami — The Gentle Twin of Alphonso

Grown in: Bagalkot, Vijayapura, and Ballari.

If Raspuri is the queen, Badami is the suave prince. Often nicknamed Karnataka’s Alphonso, this mango is less fibrous, smoother, and richly flavoured with a subtle tang.

What makes Badami a crowd-pleaser? It’s incredibly versatile—equally suited for a refreshing mango lassi or just eaten straight from the skin (yes, mess is mandatory). It’s sweet, buttery, and always ready for a close-up.

3. Kesar — The Saffron Sweetheart

Grown in: Bagalkot and Chitradurga.

Don’t let its golden-orange skin fool you—Kesar mangoes are the dessert of the mango world. Named after the saffron spice for its brilliant hue, this variety is prized for its intensely sweet taste and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

When fully ripened, a Kesar mango smells like a perfumed invitation. One bite, and you’re transported to sunlit orchards and lazy afternoons.

Fun fact: Though originally from Gujarat, Kesar has found its own sunny patch in Karnataka—and the taste speaks for itself.

4. Neelum — The Pocket-Sized Powerhouse

Grown in: Hubballi, Dharwad, and parts of North Karnataka.

Small but mighty, Neelum mangoes bring a zesty tangy-sweet balance that makes them ideal for more than just munching. These mangoes are firm, non-fibrous, and bursting with flavour, perfect for pickles, chutneys, or sneaky midnight snacking.

There’s a reason Neelum has quietly earned a cult following—it’s the underdog that delivers every time.

5. Totapuri — The Tangy Maverick

Grown in: Tumakuru, Channarayapatna, and Hassan.

And then there’s Totapuri—the rebel with a beak. Quite literally, its distinct pointed tip gives it a parrot-like profile. But Totapuri isn’t just quirky—it’s tangy, firm, and packed with potential.

Best known for its use in juices, pickles, and cooking, this mango’s tart kick makes it the go-to for culinary adventures. It’s not the kind you slice and serve—it’s the kind you cook with heart.

More Than Just Mangoes

Karnataka’s mangoes are more than just seasonal fruits—they’re a part of the state’s cultural identity, deeply tied to family recipes, summer memories, and regional pride. Whether you’re strolling through a local fruit market or sipping chilled aamras on a hot day, each bite carries a whisper of the land it came from.

So next time mango season rolls around, skip the ordinary. Go local. Taste Karnataka. And let these golden gems tell you their story.

Heritage in Our Hands – A Letter to next gen on World Heritage Day 2025

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April 18, 2025, 2:13 PM

Dear Guardians of Tomorrow,

It’s April 18, 2025, World Heritage Day, and I’m writing to you from India, a land where ancient whispers echo in every stone, song, and forest. Our heritage carved stepwells, sacred groves, and melodies passed down through generations is a tapestry of human dreams. But as I sit here, I see cracks in this tapestry: monsoon floods eroding ancient walls, city sprawl swallowing ruins, and stories fading as elders grow silent. Yet, I believe you’ll inherit a world where India’s heritage thrives, not as relics in a museum, but as living threads in your lives. This is my letter to you, heritage lovers of today and tomorrow, about why our past matters and how we, ordinary people, can hold it in our hands for you to cherish in 2100.

Just Imagine standing before a temple where artisans chiseled gods into stone a thousand years ago, their tools echoing in the stillness. Picture a forest where tribal songs blend with the rustle of leaves, carrying wisdom older than empires. Or hear a poet’s verses, sung in a courtyard where scholars once debated under starlight. India’s heritage, recognized by UNESCO and cherished by millions, spans rock-hewn caves, soaring minarets, and vibrant festivals. It’s not just monuments but the intangible dances that tell epics, recipes spiced by ancient trade routes, and rituals that bind communities.

In 2025, India boasts dozens of World Heritage Sites, from architectural marvels to biodiversity hotspots, each a chapter in humanity’s story. But many lie in the shadows, known only to locals who guard their secrets. A stepwell in a desert village holds tales of queens and travelers; a hilltop shrine blends faiths in its weathered stones; a riverbank festival weaves music and devotion. These places, often overlooked, face threats: climate change erodes their foundations, tourism strains their fragility, and modernization drowns their stories. Yet, they endure because of people artisans, elders, children who refuse to let them fade.I think of a weaver I met, her hands threading patterns that mirror ancient carvings. She fears her craft may vanish as machines replace looms, but her daughter films her work, sharing it online to keep the tradition alive. This is heritage: not just what’s old, but what we choose to carry forward.

Heritage Through Your Eyes

A New Way to See To make our heritage yours, let’s see it anew. Imagine slipping on glasses that let you walk through a ruined city as it stood centuries ago, markets bustling and flags flying. Augmented reality can bring this to life in 2025. Picture an app where you point your phone at a weathered wall, and it reveals faded paintings or voices of poets long gone. Such tools, being developed by young coders and historians, make heritage a time machine, inviting you to explore India’s past from your doorstep. On World Heritage Day, we could launch these experiences, sharing stories of unsung sites with schoolkids and travelers, ensuring they live in your digital world, dear future.

Or join a treasure hunt through your city, chasing clues hidden in ancient arches or market songs. These gamified adventures, popping up in 2025, turn heritage into a quest. You might snap a photo of a carved doorway, learn its story, or share it with #HeritageAlive. It’s not just fun it’s a way to notice the history you pass every day, from a forgotten shrine to a spice blend tied to ancient trade.

Heritage on Your Plate: Tasting the Past
Heritage isn’t only stone and song it’s in the food we share. Picture a festival where cooks serve

dishes tied to India’s past

rice dumplings steamed in banana leaves, flavored by coastal traditions or sweets born in royal kitchens, their saffron hinting at Silk Road spices. In 2025, we’re hosting culinary events on World Heritage Day, where families and chefs recount how recipes reflect migrations, invasions, and celebrations. You could join a virtual cook-along, stirring a curry while learning how its spices traveled from distant lands. Or share your grandmother’s recipe online, tying it to a festival or monument. Food is heritage you can taste, a delicious way to keep our stories alive for you in 2100.

Building an Inclusive Legacy

Our heritage belongs to everyone, yet not all can touch it. Imagine a blind child tracing a model of a temple’s carvings or a wheelchair user exploring a fort via a virtual tour. In 2025, we’re pushing for accessibility, auditing sites to add ramps, braille guides, or sensory-friendly apps. On World Heritage Day, we’ll launch campaigns to make heritage inclusive, sharing stories of differently-abled artisans or tribal communities who steward sacred groves. You can help by advocating for access or creating audio tours for local sites. When heritage is for all, it grows stronger, reaching you in a world we hope is kinder.

Good Friday in India: A Journey Through History, Faith, and Unique Rituals

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April 18, 2025, 2:01 PM

Good Friday in India is a tapestry of faith, history, and culture, weaving together the universal Christian narrative with regional expressions of devotion. From its historical roots in the crucifixion of Jesus Christ to its modern significance as a day of reflection and charity, Good Friday holds a special place in the hearts of Indian Christians. The rituals church services, fasting, processions, and acts of service offer a space for mourning, renewal, and hope, reminding believers and non-believers alike of the enduring power of love and sacrifice. As India observes Good Friday on April 18 it continues to be a day that unites communities in reverence and compassion, honoring a timeless legacy.

Good Friday in the Indian Context

In India, Good Friday is not just a religious observance but a reflection of the country’s syncretic culture. The rituals, while rooted in Christian theology, are infused with local traditions, from the bitter Kaippuneeru in Kerala to the hymn-filled gatherings in Mizoram. The day also serves as a bridge between communities, as non-Christians often participate in processions or visit churches out of respect and curiosity, embodying India’s spirit of unity in diversity.

Kerala: The large Christian population observes Good Friday with solemn masses and processions. The consumption of Kaippuneeru and the preparation of Kozukhattai (sweet dumplings made with rice, coconut, and jaggery) on the preceding days are unique customs.

Goa: Influenced by Portuguese traditions, Goan Catholics hold elaborate processions with statues of Christ and carry crosses through the streets.

Northeast India: In states like Nagaland, Mizoram, and Manipur, Good Friday is marked by large prayer gatherings and traditional hymn singing, such as the Mizo Lengkhawm zai, which blends Christian and indigenous elements.

Puducherry: With its French Catholic heritage, Puducherry hosts emotionally charged liturgies at churches like the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, accompanied by devotional chants resonating through the streets.

Today’s Significance in India

In modern India, Good Friday remains a deeply meaningful day for the country’s 28 million Christians, who make up about 2.3% of the population. It is a public holiday in most states, except Tripura, Assam, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu, and Srinagar, allowing Christians to participate in religious observances and reflect on the day’s significance. The holiday also fosters interfaith harmony, as people from other communities often join in respecting the solemnity of the occasion

In India, Christianity arrived as early as the 1st century AD, traditionally attributed to the missionary work of St. Thomas the Apostle in Kerala. Over centuries, Portuguese, British, and French colonial influences, along with missionary activities, spread Christianity across regions like Goa, Tamil Nadu, and the northeast. Good Friday, as a central Christian observance, became embedded in these communities, blending with local traditions to create unique expressions of faith.

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April 18, 2025, 1:41 PM