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Oil Prices Swing Wildly Amid Iran Conflict: WTI Plunges 10% to $85 After Hitting $115 Peak

By
Nirjala Gaud
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PC(WSJ)

Dramatic Volatility in Global Energy Markets as Geopolitical Tensions Ease Slightly

West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil futures experienced extreme turbulence, plunging as much as 10% to $85.02 per barrel on Tuesday. This sharp drop followed a dramatic surge earlier in the week, with prices briefly crossing $115 per barrel on Monday. The intraday trading range spanned an astonishing -$38 – the widest since the chaotic days of the 2020 pandemic, when oil prices infamously turned negative for a brief period.

The wild swings stem directly from the ongoing war involving Iran, which has severely disrupted oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz – the critical chokepoint carrying roughly 20% of the world’s oil supply. Uncertainty persists over whether tankers are safely transiting the strait, prompting major Gulf producers like Saudi Arabia to curtail output due to overflowing storage facilities. The conflict has rippled beyond crude, driving up prices for natural gas, gasoil, and other energy products. In the US, retail gasoline prices have climbed to their highest levels since August 2024, adding pressure on consumers and raising inflation concerns.

Trump Outlines Plan to Stabilize Prices

In a news conference held in Florida, President Donald Trump announced steps aimed at cooling the overheated market. He stated plans to waive certain oil-related sanctions and deploy the US Navy to escort tankers through the Strait of Hormuz.
“We’re looking to keep the oil prices down,” Trump said. “They went artificially up because of this excursion.” Trump revealed he had discussed the matter in a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier on Monday but provided no further specifics on the sanctions relief or escort operations.

G7 Monitors Situation, Holds Off on Emergency Reserves

Oil prices began retreating during Monday’s session after the Financial Times reported that the G7 nations were convening to consider releasing emergency strategic reserves. However, France – the current G7 president – clarified that the group is “not there yet” on agreeing to such a move, though members are closely watching energy market developments.

The G7 finance ministers, in coordination with the International Energy Agency, have indicated readiness to take “necessary measures” to support global energy supplies, including potential stockpile releases, but emphasized the need for more analysis before acting.
As the situation in the Middle East remains fluid, markets continue to react to every signal of de-escalation or prolonged disruption. Trump’s comments and the prospect of restored tanker flows have provided some relief, but analysts warn that sustained clarity on the strait and broader conflict resolution will be key to stabilizing prices.

Celebrating the Divine Feminine: Indrani Samaroh 2026 – MP’s Grand Tribute to Women’s Creativity in Tribal & Traditional Arts,,

By
Nirjala Gaud
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PC(Facebook, Instagram)

Empowering the ‘Srijanatmakta’ of Indian Women -Why Indrani Samaroh Stands Out in MP’s Cultural Landscape

The Indrani Samaroh holds profound significance as a dedicated platform for celebrating and preserving the creative contributions of women in Indian traditional and tribal arts. It spotlights the “srijanatmakta” (creativity) of women, offering a vibrant stage for female performers to showcase skills passed down through generations in families and communities. Essentially, this festival serves as a heartfelt tribute to the “Indian Nari,” who, through her sensitivity and tireless labor, remains the primary custodian of India’s rich cultural values and heritage.

Preserving Living Traditions Alive – MP’s Role in Keeping Rare Arts Breathing

By featuring rare tribal dances like Chillauri and classical forms like Mahari, the event plays a vital role in sustaining “living traditions”-arts that are far more than historical relics but active, vibrant elements of community identity. Hosted at the Madhya Pradesh Tribal Museum, it acts as a cultural bridge, connecting ancient tribal wisdom and ecological consciousness with the modern world, inviting audiences to engage deeply with these profound art forms.

Celebrating the Divine Feminine: Indrani Samaroh 2026 – MP's Grand Tribute to Women's Creativity in Tribal & Traditional Arts,,

Uniting India’s Diversity Through Women’s Artistry – A National Cultural Harmony in MP

The festival promotes incredible diversity by bringing together regional expressions-from the soulful folk music of Bundelkhand to Odisha’s classical traditions -fostering a powerful sense of national cultural unity. In Madhya Pradesh’s heart, Indrani Samaroh becomes a beacon of inclusivity, showcasing how women’s creativity weaves India’s varied heritage into one harmonious tapestry.

Behind the Magic: Madhya Pradesh Tribal Museum Leads the Way as Primary Organizer

The Indrani Samaroh is proudly organized by the Madhya Pradesh Tribal Museum in Bhopal, in collaboration with and supported by the Department of Culture, Government of Madhya Pradesh. Key figures, including curators like Ashok Mishra, oversee these grand events, making it part of the state government’s commitment to providing platforms for tribal and folk artists with a special focus on women’s contributions.

This Week in Bhopal: Catch Indrani Samaroh 2026 -Free Entry, Timeless Performances Await!

Scheduled right now from March 10 to March 12, 2026, performances kick off each evening at 6:30 PM at the Madhya Pradesh Tribal Museum, Shyamala Hills, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462002. Entry is completely free, making it accessible for everyone to experience this celebration. (Note: The museum galleries are typically open 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Tuesday-Sunday, closed Mondays-perfect for combining a daytime visit with evening festivities.)

Celebrating the Divine Feminine: Indrani Samaroh 2026 – MP's Grand Tribute to Women's Creativity in Tribal & Traditional Arts,,

Day-by-Day Highlights: MP’s Spotlight on Stellar Women Performers Across Three Magical Evenings

The three-day lineup, starting at 6:30 PM daily, bursts with variety:March 10 (Tuesday): Vadhya-Ranjini instrumental ensemble, Bundeli Jas Gayen folk singing by Smt. Santosh Sahu & group (Sagar), and Chillauri Dance by Smt. Shakuntala Dhurve & troupe (Betul).March 11 (Wednesday): Devotional bhajans by Smt. Sona Devi & group (Dindori), Mahari Dance by Guru Rupashree Mohapatra & troupe (Puri), and Dollu Kunitha by Smt. Hemavati & group (Bengaluru). March 12 (Thursday): Regional folk singing by Smt. Premvati & group (Anuppur), classical dance highlights (Kathak/Odissi), and vibrant Gudum Baja tribal performance. Often complemented by painting camps and craft fairs, this MP-curated program promises an immersive cultural feast.

Meet the Custodians of Heritage – Remarkable Women Leading MP’s Indrani Samaroh Stage

These artists are true guardians of living traditions, chosen for their mastery in orally transmitted arts: Smt. Santosh Sahu (powerful Bundeli Jas from Sagar), Smt. Shakuntala Dhurve (Korku tribe’s rhythmic Chillauri from Betul), Guru Rupashree Mohapatra (Mahari, the ancient precursor to Odissi from Puri), Smt. Hemavati (high-energy Dollu Kunitha from Bengaluru), Smt. Sona Devi (spiritual bhajans from Dindori), and Smt. Premvati (regional folk songs from Anuppur). Their participation underscores women’s pivotal role in preserving India’s diverse cultural legacy.

From Local Roots to National Prestige – The Inspiring Evolution of Indrani Samaroh in MP

Launched shortly after the Madhya Pradesh Tribal Museum’s opening in June 2013, Indrani Samaroh was conceived as a special tribute around International Women’s Day (March 8). Named after “Indrani,” the mythical queen symbolizing feminine power and grace, it began as a local focus on Madhya Pradesh tribes (like Gond and Bhil) but has grown into a prestigious national event. Today’s editions blend performances with workshops, craft demos, and discussions on heritage preservation challenges— solidifying Madhya Pradesh’s leadership in honoring women’s artistic legacy.

Savitribai Phule The First Teacher of India Who Changed the Future of Girls’ Education

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EBNW Story
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In nineteenth-century India, education was largely limited to upper-caste men. Girls were rarely allowed to attend school, and those from marginalised communities had almost no access to formal learning. Society believed that educating women would disrupt traditional family roles, and strict social customs discouraged women from stepping into public life.

In such a restrictive environment, Savitribai Phule emerged as one of the most courageous reformers in Indian history. Through education, poetry and social activism, she challenged both caste discrimination and gender inequality. Today she is widely remembered as India’s first female teacher and a pioneer who opened the doors of education for millions of girls.

Along with her husband Jyotirao Phule, Savitribai started a movement that reshaped India’s social and educational landscape.

The Journey From Child Bride to Teacher

Savitribai Phule was married at the age of nine, which was common in India during the nineteenth century. Recognising the power of education, Jyotirao Phule began teaching her to read and write at home. Savitribai later received formal teacher training in institutions in Ahmednagar and Pune, preparing herself for a professional career in teaching — something almost unheard of for women at that time.

Her transformation from a child bride to an educated teacher became a symbol of women’s empowerment in India.

Opening the First School for Girls

In 1848, Savitribai and Jyotirao Phule established one of India’s first modern schools for girls at Bhide Wada in Pune.

The school welcomed girls from all backgrounds, including those from socially marginalised communities. At a time when education was restricted by caste and gender, this step was revolutionary.

Encouraged by the success of their first school, the couple expanded their work. By 1851, they had established several schools in Pune for girls and children from marginalised communities. Their curriculum included subjects like mathematics, science and social studies, offering students a broad and modern education.

Facing Social Hostility

Savitribai Phule faced severe opposition from conservative sections of society. As she walked to school every day, people often threw stones, mud and cow dung at her in protest.

Despite the humiliation and harassment, she remained determined. According to many accounts, she carried an extra sari so she could change after reaching the classroom and continue teaching.

Her courage turned her into a powerful symbol of resistance against social injustice.

Champion of Social Equality

Savitribai and Jyotirao believed education was the key to breaking the rigid caste system. Their schools welcomed children from communities that had long been denied education, including the Mahar and Mang castes.

Savitribai was also deeply committed to women’s welfare. In 1863, the couple established Balhatya Pratibandhak Griha, a shelter for widows and pregnant women who faced social stigma. The centre provided care, protection and support, helping prevent female infanticide.

A Poet and Voice for Justice

Savitribai Phule was not only an educator but also a writer and poet. Her works, including Kavya Phule (1854) and Bavan Kashi Subodh Ratnakar (1892), addressed issues such as caste discrimination, women’s rights and the importance of education.

Through her poetry, she encouraged people to challenge injustice and seek knowledge.

Leadership in Social Reform

Savitribai played an important role in the Satyashodhak Samaj, an organisation founded by Jyotirao Phule to promote equality and oppose caste discrimination.

After her husband’s death in 1890, she continued leading the movement and remained active in social reform efforts.

A Life of Service Until the End

During the devastating plague outbreak in Pune in 1897, Savitribai dedicated herself to helping infected patients. She helped run a clinic and personally carried a sick child to receive treatment.

While serving the sick, she contracted the disease herself and passed away on March 10, 1897.

A Legacy That Still Inspires India

Savitribai Phule transformed the course of Indian education and social reform. By promoting girls’ education, challenging caste discrimination and supporting vulnerable women, she laid the foundation for a more equal society.

More than a century later, her courage and vision continue to inspire educators, activists and students across India.

Savitribai Phule’s life reminds us that education is not just a tool for knowledge, but a powerful force for social change.

Embracing Your Inner Greatness Celebrating the International Day of Awesomeness

By
Nirjala Gaud
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PC: (Pinterest, Ed Glen Today.com)

Discover the Fun, Positive Power of International Day of Awesomeness

The International Day of Awesomeness, observed every year on March 10, is a joyful, unofficial global holiday that invites everyone to recognize and celebrate the “awesome” qualities in themselves and others. In a world often filled with challenges and negativity, this lighthearted day serves as a refreshing reminder that every person possesses unique strengths, talents, and everyday feats worth celebrating.

The Fun Origins of a Positive Phenomenon

The idea for the International Day of Awesomeness sparked in 2007 when web developer Kevin Lawver was joking with coworkers and an intern named Freddie Maneiro. During a casual conversation, the intern playfully suggested celebrating Lawver’s “awesomeness,” prompting Lawver to declare there should be an International Day of Awesomeness. He shared the concept on Twitter (now X), and it quickly caught on.

The date March 10 was deliberately chosen because it marks the birthday of martial artist and actor Chuck Norris. This wasn’t a direct tribute to Norris himself but a playful nod to the internet’s legendary “myth” of his unbeatable, larger-than-life awesomeness that exploded in popularity through Chuck Norris Facts memes.

The first official celebration took place in 2008, and by 2010, it had grown into a broader international movement. Over time, contributors like Dan Lurie added the iconic tagline “Because everyone needs an excuse to be awesome,” while Lawver’s daughter, May, offered a more inclusive twist: “No one’s perfect, but everyone can be awesome.”

What started as a workplace joke evolved into a worldwide call for positivity, self-appreciation, and kindness, inspiring people, companies, and communities to spread good vibes.

Embracing Your Inner Greatness Celebrating the International Day of Awesomeness

Why This Day Matters: Key Goals and Purpose

At its core, the International Day of Awesomeness aims to: Counteract self-doubt by encouraging people to set aside insecurities and embrace what makes them special.

Highlight the “unseen” – those daily acts of kindness, resilience, creativity, or effort that often go unnoticed.Build confidence and resilience through reflection on personal strengths and achievements, no matter how small.Spread positivity in a negativity-heavy world, using social media, community events, and simple gestures to flood feeds with uplifting stories.It’s a “breath of fresh air” that reminds us awesomeness isn’t about perfection – it’s about showing up, trying, and inspiring others.

How to Celebrate: Make Today Awesome

Celebrating is simple, fun, and personal. Here are some popular ways to join in:

Celebrate Yourself

Perform a “Feat of Awesomeness”: Step outside your comfort zone – try a new hobby like cooking a bold recipe, painting, learning a skill, or even something adventurous. Reflect on your uniqueness: Write down your talents, quirks, or recent wins in a journal. Kick off the day with energy: Blast your favorite playlist, do a quick workout, or start a gratitude ritual.

Celebrate Others

Offer genuine praise: Tell a friend, family member, or colleague exactly why they’re awesome be specific! Spread random acts of kindness: Buy coffee for the person behind you, leave an encouraging note, or volunteer. Share online: Post uplifting messages or stories using hashtags like #IDOA (International Day of Awesomeness) or #DayOfAwesomeness. Whether big or small, every act counts. The day is all about guilt-free self-love and lifting others up.

This March 10, take the opportunity to acknowledge your own extraordinary qualities and spotlight the greatness in those around you. Because, as the tagline reminds us, everyone truly needs an excuse to be awesome – and today is the perfect one

Cheetah Population in India Rises to 53

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EBNW Story
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Jwala, the Namibian Cheetah, gave birth to five cubs on Monday at the Kuno National Park, in Madhya Pradesh’s Sheopur district, taking India’s Cheetah population to 53, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav said.

Of these, 50 are now in Kuno National Park, and three are in Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh.

In an X post, Union Minister Bhupender Yadav said the number of Indian-born thriving cubs has risen to 33, and lauded the veterinarians and field staff taking care of the big cats at the Kuno National Park.

He wrote, “Cheetahs cross half-century. A moment of great pride for Project Cheetah as Jwala, the Namibian Cheetah and a successful third-time mother, gave birth to five cubs today at the Kuno National Park. With this birth, the number of Indian-born thriving cubs has risen to 33, marking the 10th successful cheetah litter on Indian soil another important milestone in India’s cheetah conservation journey.”

“This achievement reflects the dedicated efforts, skill, and commitment of the veterinarians, field staff and all involved who continue to work tirelessly on the ground. With the arrival of these cubs, the total cheetah population in India has now reached 53. A historic and heart-warming moment for wildlife conservation. May Jwala and her cubs grow strong and race ahead, carrying India’s cheetah story to even greater heights,” the X post read.

1,015 Indian Students Graduate as Doctors from Philippines’ Davao Medical School Foundation

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EBNW Story
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In one of the largest graduating cohorts of Indian medical students from a single overseas medical institution in recent years, 1,015 Indian-origin students were awarded Doctor of Medicine (MD) degrees at the 25th International Medical Doctors Graduation Ceremony of Davao Medical School Foundation Inc. (DMSF) held in Davao City.

The Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree awarded by DMSF is equivalent to the MBBS degree in India, marking one of the largest cohorts of Indian students graduating from an overseas medical institution in recent years.

Over the years, the Davao Medical School Foundation has emerged as a prominent destination for Indian students seeking medical education abroad. Nearly 12,000 Indian students have graduated from the institution, with many now practicing medicine across India and internationally.

Students graduating this year represent a diverse cross-section of India, with aspiring doctors travelling from across the country to pursue their medical education at DMSF, reflecting the institution’s growing appeal among Indian medical aspirants.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. David Pillai, CEO and Founding Chairman, Transworld Educare, said: “This graduation ceremony marks a proud milestone for the students, their families and the broader ecosystem supporting Indian students pursuing medical education overseas. The Philippines has long been a trusted destination for Indian medical aspirants due to its strong academic standards, English-medium instruction and globally recognised medical training.

1,015 Indian Students Graduate as Doctors from Philippines’ Davao Medical School Foundation

Seeing over a thousand Indian students graduate from Davao Medical School Foundation this year reflects the growing aspirations of Indian students seeking quality global medical education and their commitment to strengthening healthcare systems in India and worldwide.”

DMSF has also built a strong academic reputation for its graduates’ performance in the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) — the qualifying examination required for overseas medical graduates seeking to practice medicine in India. Over the past decade, DMSF graduates have consistently featured among top FMGE rankers, reflecting the institution’s robust academic and clinical training.

The Philippines has emerged as an important destination for Indian students pursuing medical education abroad due to several key factors:

• English-medium medical education, making it accessible for Indian students
• Strong clinical exposure and hospital-based training
• Established Indian student community across several medical institutions
• Relatively affordable education compared to many global destinations

The growing presence of Indian students in Philippine medical universities reflects the strengthening academic engagement between India and the Philippines, particularly in the field of medical education.

Erwin Rommel N. Hontiveros, OIC Dean of Colleges, Davao Medical School Foundation said: “For decades, Davao Medical School Foundation has welcomed Indian students and supported them throughout their journey to becoming skilled medical professionals. The achievements of our graduates, including their performance in the FMGE examination, reflect the strong academic and clinical training provided by the institution.”

The graduation ceremony brought together academic leaders, faculty members, graduating students and their families, celebrating the achievements of Indian medical aspirants and highlighting the growing educational collaboration between India and the Philippines.

West Asian Conflict and the Emerging Economic Challenges for India

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EBNW Story
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The escalating tensions involving Israel, Iran, and the United States have once again turned West Asia into a focal point of global geopolitical instability. As a region that controls vital energy supplies and trade routes, any conflict here quickly produces ripple effects across the global economy. For India, which maintains deep economic and strategic connections with West Asian countries, the consequences are already becoming visible in sectors such as industry, agriculture, and international trade.

Strategic Energy Routes Under Pressure

One of the most critical concerns arising from the conflict is the potential disruption of global energy routes. A large share of the world’s crude oil passes through the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow but strategically vital maritime corridor located near Iran. Any escalation that threatens this passage could push global oil prices upward. For India, which imports the majority of its crude oil requirements, such fluctuations directly translate into higher transportation costs, increased inflation, and pressure on the national economy.

West Asian Conflict and the Emerging Economic Challenges for India

Industrial Disruptions: The Case of Morbi’s Ceramic Sector

The consequences of the conflict are not limited to energy markets alone. India’s industrial sector has also begun to experience disruptions. The ceramic manufacturing hub in Morbi, widely recognized as the ceramic capital of India, has faced operational challenges due to irregular fuel supplies and rising energy costs. Since ceramic kilns require continuous high-temperature operations powered by natural gas or propane, supply interruptions have forced several units to temporarily halt production. Such disruptions threaten employment and export competitiveness in one of India’s key manufacturing clusters.

Agricultural Concerns: Rising Fertilizer Costs

The agricultural sector is also vulnerable to the indirect effects of geopolitical instability. Fertilizers such as Urea and Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) rely heavily on natural gas and global supply chains. As energy prices rise and shipping routes become uncertain, fertilizer prices tend to increase in international markets. For Indian farmers, this translates into higher input costs, which could influence crop production decisions and affect agricultural profitability in upcoming seasons.

Trade Disruptions and the Rice Export Challenge

India is one of the world’s largest exporters of rice, particularly basmati rice, to West Asian markets. Countries such as Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates constitute important destinations for Indian rice exports. However, ongoing conflict in the region has complicated shipping logistics and payment mechanisms. These disruptions have slowed export activity and created fluctuations in domestic rice prices, highlighting the vulnerability of trade flows during geopolitical crises.

Broader Economic Implications

Beyond individual sectors, the conflict carries broader macroeconomic implications for India. Rising oil prices can increase the country’s import bill, widen the current account deficit, and exert upward pressure on inflation. At the same time, uncertainty in global markets may affect investor confidence and financial stability. These developments underline the interconnected nature of geopolitics and economic resilience in an increasingly globalized world.

Conclusion

The unfolding conflict in West Asia serves as a reminder that regional tensions can have far-reaching economic consequences. For India, the situation underscores the importance of strengthening energy security, diversifying trade partnerships, and building resilient supply chains. As global uncertainties continue to shape the international landscape, proactive economic and diplomatic strategies will be essential for safeguarding India’s long-term stability and growth.

West Asian Conflict and the Emerging Economic Challenges for India

((The article has been written by: Soniya Yadav, Student, Kanoria Mahila Mahavidyalaya)

Mewar’s Timeless Jewellery Heritage Bespeaks Stories from History Emanating from Rajput Courts…

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EBNW Story
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For centuries, the land of Mewar has been synonymous with valour, art and regal splendour. Among its most enduring cultural symbols is its extraordinary jewellery tradition, an art form that reflects the region’s history, craftsmanship and social identity. Here comes the report from The EBNW Story written by Kanan Rathore...

Royal Roots of Ornamentation
Jewellery in Mewar flourished under the patronage of the Rajput courts, especially during the reign of the Maharanas of Udaipur. Royal families adorned themselves with intricate pieces crafted from gold, silver, pearls, emeralds and precious gemstones. Techniques such as kundan, jadau, meenakari and thewa evolved and flourished across the region, blending artistry with luxury.

Mewar's Timeless Jewellery Heritage Bespeaks Stories from History Emanating from Rajput Courts...

Dr. Uttama Singh Rao, a historian of regional culture, explains,
“Jewellery has always been an integral part of the culture and traditions of Mewar. From royal households to prosperous families, owning intricately crafted ornaments was a symbol of prestige, heritage and identity.”

Jewellery in Everyday Culture
While the royal courts popularised elaborate jewellery, the tradition was equally visible in rural communities. Women across villages adorned themselves with distinctive ornaments made of gold or silver, reflecting both aesthetics and practicality. Many ornaments were also believed to have Ayurvedic and acupressure benefits, enhancing circulation and balancing the body’s energy points.

A Symbol of Celebration
Jewellery holds deep importance in the cultural life of Mewar, particularly during weddings and festivals. Brides traditionally wear elaborate sets including necklaces, bangles, anklets and head ornaments, while men too historically wore jewellery such as earrings, necklaces and rings.

Mewar's Timeless Jewellery Heritage Bespeaks Stories from History Emanating from Rajput Courts...

According to senior history scholar Divyansh Saxena,
“The jewellery traditions of Mewar reveal a fascinating social hierarchy. While royal families wore the most elaborate pieces with precious stones, common households and tribal communities developed their own distinctive styles and materials.”

A Heritage Passed Through Generations
More than adornment, jewellery in Mewar is considered family heritage or ‘viraasat’. Passed down through generations, these ornaments carry memories, stories and cultural pride, ensuring that the glitter of Mewar’s past continues to shine in the present.

While the royal courts popularised elaborate jewellery, the tradition was equally visible in rural communities. Women across villages adorned themselves with distinctive ornaments made of gold or silver, reflecting both aesthetics and practicality. Many ornaments were also believed to have Ayurvedic and acupressure benefits, enhancing circulation and balancing the body’s energy points.

Sheetala Saptami 2026/Sheetala Ashtami 2026: A Sacred Tradition of Devotion, Hygiene and ‘Cold Food’ Rituals in Rajasthan

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EBNW Story
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In many parts of North and Western India, especially in Rajasthan, devotees observe Sheetala Saptami or Sheetala Ashtami, a traditional festival dedicated to Goddess Sheetala, the deity believed to protect people from diseases and epidemics. The festival is usually celebrated 7 to 8 days after Holi during the Hindu month of Chaitra.
The word “Sheetala” means cool or calm, symbolizing healing and protection. Historically, the goddess has been worshipped as the protector from diseases such as smallpox, measles, and other infections. The festival therefore carries a strong message of health, cleanliness, and well-being within communities.

Mythological Beliefs and Stories
According to traditional beliefs and folklore, Goddess Sheetala travels from house to house on this day blessing families that maintain cleanliness and devotion. It is believed that the goddess prefers a calm and cool environment, which is why the kitchen fire is not lit on the festival day.
Several folk stories associated with the festival highlight the importance of hygiene and respect for the goddess. It is said that families who observe the rituals properly receive protection from illness and misfortune, while those who neglect the traditions risk inviting the goddess’s displeasure.

Unique Ritual of ‘Basoda’ or Pre-Cooked Food
One of the most distinctive customs of the festival is that no fresh food is prepared on the day of Sheetala Saptami or Ashtami. Instead, families cook all the meals the previous day, a practice popularly known as Basoda or Basioda.
On the morning of the festival, devotees offer these pre-prepared dishes to the goddess as bhog and then consume them with family members. The ritual symbolizes allowing the hearth to rest and maintaining a “cool” kitchen, in accordance with the goddess’s association with calmness and healing.

Temple Visits and Community Celebrations
Devotees wake up early in the morning, bathe, and visit temples dedicated to Sheetala Mata to offer prayers, flowers, and food. In several towns and villages of Rajasthan, special gatherings and small fairs are also organized near temples where families come together to celebrate the occasion.

Traditional Foods Prepared for the Festival
Food is an essential part of the celebration. A variety of dishes are prepared a day earlier and offered to the goddess. Popular items include puri, aloo ki sabzi, pachkuta, kairi ki lonji, dahi bada, sweet preparations, and snacks.
One of the most commonly consumed dishes in Rajasthan on this day is dahi-chawal, locally known as “Oliya”, which is considered cooling and simple, perfectly reflecting the essence of the festival.

Regions Where It Is Celebrated
While the festival is especially prominent in Rajasthan, it is also widely observed in Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana. The rituals and food traditions may vary slightly from region to region, but the central belief of worshipping Goddess Sheetala for protection and well-being remains the same.

A Tradition Rooted in Faith and Cultural Wisdom
Sheetala Saptami–Ashtami beautifully reflects the blend of faith, seasonal wisdom, and community traditions in Indian culture. By honouring Goddess Sheetala and sharing food prepared with devotion, families celebrate a ritual that has been passed down for generations, one that emphasizes hygiene, harmony, and gratitude for health and protection.

Celebrating Bhil Heritage: Lalita Tahed’s Solo Exhibition at Madhya Pradesh Tribal Museum

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Nirjala Gaud
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In the heart of Bhopal, amidst the serene Shyamala Hills, the Madhya Pradesh Tribal Museum is currently hosting a captivating exhibition-cum-sale of paintings by Lalita Tahed, a prominent artist from the Bhil community. instagram.com This event, part of the museum’s “Shalaka” series-the 70th and 71st installments-runs from March 3 to March 30, 2026, at the Likhandra Exhibition Gallery.
The “Shalaka” initiative is a monthly program designed to empower tribal artists by providing them a dedicated platform to showcase and sell their works directly to art enthusiasts and collectors. It underscores the museum’s commitment to preserving and promoting India’s indigenous art forms.

About the Artist: Lalita Tahed

Lalita Tahed, a young and talented Bhil tribal artist hailing from the Jhabua district of Madhya Pradesh, was born in Antarvelia village. Growing up enveloped by nature without formal education, she developed an early affinity for traditional wall art. Her artistic journey took a significant turn after relocating to Bhopal, where she honed her skills in the traditional Bhil style under the mentorship of her mother-in-law, the esteemed Padma Shri awardee Lado Bai.
As a resident artist at the museum and associated with spaces like Pratibha Veethi, Lalita’s paintings vividly capture the stories, traditions, and lived experiences of the Bhil community. Her style is marked by vibrant colors, intricate lines, and the signature use of multi-hued dots to depict themes of nature, wildlife, spirituality, and tribal customs.

This exhibition marks her first solo

show, a milestone in her career. Her works have previously been displayed in major Indian cities such as New Delhi and Hyderabad, with pieces adorning international collections in France, the USA, and Australia. Among her accolades is a Gold Medal from an art competition at the Manikarnika Art Gallery in Delhi.

The Essence of Bhil Art

Bhil painting stands as one of India’s oldest tribal art forms, practiced by the Bhil community across Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. Its defining characteristic is the intricate dot patterns that fill large, bold shapes-these dots symbolize ancestors, deities, grains like maize, or raindrops, embodying life and prosperity.
Traditionally, Bhil art utilized a vibrant palette derived from natural materials: turmeric for yellow, clay for red, and leaves for green. Today, contemporary artists like Lalita incorporate bright acrylics on canvas, blending ancient techniques with modern narratives. The paintings serve as visual records of tribal life, folklore, and spiritual beliefs, often eschewing Western perspectives for a more narrative, flat style.

Celebrating Bhil Heritage: Lalita Tahed's Solo Exhibition at Madhya Pradesh Tribal Museum

Common themes include: Nature and Wildlife: Depictions of trees,
peacocks, horses, and tigers, highlighting the community’s profound environmental bond.

Daily Tribal Life: Scenes of farming, hunting,
dancing (such as the Ghoomar), and community rituals.

Rituals: Particularly the Pithora ritual-sacred wall murals painted by men known as Likhandras to invoke blessings for homes.

The term “Likhandra” honors the traditional Bhil painters who created ritualistic murals on tribal home walls. The museum’s gallery name pays homage to this storytelling heritage.

Historical Evolution of Bhil Art

The roots of Bhil art trace back to ancient times, with scholars linking it to prehistoric rock paintings in the Bhimbetka caves. Tribal lore attributes its origins to a divine gift from Goddess Parvati, inspired by the Bhils’ harmony with nature. Historically ritualistic, Pithora paintings adorned mud walls plastered with cow dung and clay, using neem twigs as brushes and natural pigments. These ephemeral artworks were created for occasions like births, weddings, or festivals, with ritualistic murals traditionally handled by men (Lakharas) and everyday art passed matrilineally from mothers to daughters.
The modern evolution began in the 1980s at Bharat Bhavan in Bhopal, where artist J. Swaminathan encouraged tribal talents like Bhuri Bai and Lado Bai to transition to paper and canvas using acrylics. Bhuri Bai pioneered painting on paper, paving the way for artists like Lalita Tahed to professionalize their heritage. Contemporary Bhil art now integrates modern elements like airplanes, buses, and cell phones alongside traditional motifs, reflecting the community’s evolving lifestyle.

Exhibition Details and Visitor Information

Venue: Likhandra Exhibition Gallery, Madhya Pradesh Tribal Museum, Shyamala Hills, Bhopal.
Dates: March 3 – March 30, 2026.

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