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Unlocking Spiritual Growth: The Significance of Navratri Fasting

By
Dimple Arora
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0

Navratri, the Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga, is not just about colourful attire and vibrant dances. At its core, Navratri fasting is a profound spiritual journey that holds the potential for personal transformation and a deeper connection with the divine. This sacred practice involves abstaining from certain foods and indulgences, and it is much more than a dietary choice—it is a powerful means of cleansing the body and mind.

The Holistic Approach

Navratri fasting is not just about skipping meals; it is a holistic approach to nourishing the soul. Devotees believe that by avoiding certain foods and practicing restraint, they can purify their bodies and minds. This process opens the gateway for spiritual growth and self-realization.

Meditation and Prayer

During Navratri, the power of fasting is amplified when combined with meditation and prayer. Devotees spend their days in deep introspection, connecting with the divine through spiritual practices. This period offers a unique opportunity to enhance one’s relationship with the divine, seeking blessings and guidance from Goddess Durga.

Discipline and Dedication

The fasting during Navratri is not merely a ritual but a display of discipline and dedication. It is a testament to one’s commitment to spiritual growth and self-improvement. By adhering to the rules of fasting, devotees demonstrate their sincerity and devotion to the goddess.

A Profound Personal Transformation

Navratri fasting is a beautiful and meaningful tradition that allows individuals to embark on an inner journey. It offers an opportunity to connect with the divine and experience spiritual growth. Whether one participates in Chaitra Navratri or Sharad Navratri, approaching this practice with sincerity and devotion can lead to profound personal transformation and a deeper understanding of the spiritual world.

As you fast during Navratri, remember that it’s not just about the food you consume, but the nourishment you provide to your soul. The spiritual benefits of this practice can extend far beyond the festival itself, enriching your life in numerous ways and fostering a deeper connection with the divine.

Delhi’s ‘Green War Room’ Takes Center Stage in the Battle Against Air Pollution

By
Simran Saini
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The Delhi government has taken a resolute step in its ongoing fight against the looming threat of air pollution by unveiling the groundbreaking ‘Green War Room’ on October 3, 2023. This innovative initiative is poised to spearhead a 24/7 effort, meticulously monitoring and executing the Winter Action Plan, with a particular focus on tackling the dire air quality concerns that typically grip the national capital during the winter months.

The struggle against air pollution in Delhi has been a protracted one, with a complex interplay of factors contributing to the escalating pollution levels. The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), a preeminent think tank headquartered in New Delhi, has flagged the issue of localized pollution. This encompasses a wide array of pollution sources, encompassing vehicular emissions, industrial operations, and construction activities. Moreover, the ancient practice of stubble burning by farmers in neighboring states, such as Punjab and Haryana, at the advent of winter further exacerbates Delhi’s air quality woes.

Gopal Rai, Delhi’s Environment Minister, played a pivotal role in inaugurating the ‘anti-pollution war room’ and underscored the indispensable role of public participation in combating air pollution. The war room is intricately linked to the ‘Green Delhi app,’ a mobile application providing citizens with a user-friendly platform to actively contribute to the battle against pollution.

In a landmark development, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal unveiled a comprehensive 15-point Winter Action Plan on September 29, 2023, specifically designed to wrestle control of air pollution in Delhi during the winter season. To add to this multi-pronged strategy, the Delhi government is set to launch an anti-dust campaign on October 5, 2023, further emphasizing its commitment to a cleaner, healthier environment.

Minister Rai, in a press statement, referenced CSE findings that “31 percent of pollution sources emanate within Delhi, with external sources from neighbouring states contributing a staggering 69 percent of the pollution.” This data is grounded in a CSE report from November 2021, which delves into the origins of particulate pollution in Delhi and the ramifications of traffic congestion on local air quality. This insightful report identifies vehicles as the chief contributors to the city’s real-time pollution levels.

While there was a marginal improvement in air quality during the winter of 2022, a recent CSE report underscores that Delhi continues to grapple with the unwanted title of the most polluted city among the five major cities in the national capital region. The advent of large-scale air quality monitoring in Delhi in 2018 marked a significant milestone in addressing this enduring issue.

The supervision of the ‘Green War Room’ has been entrusted to a team of 17 experts, including scientists and engineers, under Minister Rai’s stewardship. The Green Delhi app, a collaborative platform uniting 28 government departments, empowers citizens to report pollution sources. Each grievance will be vigilantly monitored by the war room, underscoring the government’s commitment to transparency and responsiveness. Minister Rai emphasized the inclusive nature of the platform, stating, “All complaints received on the Green Delhi app are jointly overseen by all 28 departments, including those from the central government, the Delhi government, and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), among others. Nodal officers have been appointed in every department to operate this app.”

Early results are promising, with over 70,684 complaints received through the Green Delhi App, a staggering 90 percent of which have already been effectively addressed. A significant proportion of these grievances was directed towards the operations of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), underscoring the critical role of interdepartmental collaboration in addressing pollution-related concerns.

As of October 3, 2023, Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) registered at 155, positioning it within the “moderate” range. The AQI scale spans from “good” (0-50) to “satisfactory” (51-100), “poor” (201-300), “very poor” (301-400), and “severe” (401-500). The ‘Green War Room’ and its associated initiatives aspire to propel Delhi’s AQI into healthier ranges, safeguarding the well-being of its inhabitants and the environment they inhabit. The city’s journey towards cleaner air is marked by determination, innovation, and a profound commitment to the welfare of its residents.

UMMEED: Nurturing Hope for Children’s Well-being

By
Dimple Arora
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0

In a world teeming with challenges and uncertainties, UMMEED stands as a symbol of unwavering hope, compassion, and healing for those in need. UMMEED, which beautifully expands to “Understand, Motivate, Manage, Empathize, Empower, and Develop,” is an exceptional organization that operates on the core belief that “every child matters.” By focusing on these fundamental principles, UMMEED is redefining the way we approach child well-being, particularly in the context of mental health and development.

Establishing School Wellness Teams

One of the key recommendations put forth by UMMEED is the establishment of School Wellness Teams in all educational institutions. These teams act as the guardians of students’ well-being. They are the first line of defense, tasked with identifying students who may be at risk of self-harm or are displaying warning signs. These compassionate individuals provide essential support and guidance, ensuring that no child feels alone in their struggles.

Promoting Sensitivity and Reducing Stigma

UMMEED places great emphasis on fostering sensitivity and understanding within schools. By creating a nurturing and judgment-free environment, students can be encouraged to express their feelings and concerns openly. Furthermore, UMMEED advocates for the reduction of the stigma surrounding suicidal tendencies and self-harming behaviors. It is only in such an environment that students can feel safe enough to seek help.

Collaboration Between Schools and Parents

To create a safer and more supportive atmosphere for students, UMMEED underscores the importance of collaboration between schools and parents. By working together, these influential entities can identify and address the issues faced by students, both within the school environment and at home.

Fostering Healthy Competition

UMMEED recognizes the detrimental impact of unhealthy competition on students. The incessant comparisons and pitting of students against one another can lead to immense stress and pressure. The organization advocates for a more compassionate and nurturing educational environment that prioritizes individual growth rather than relentless competition.

Immediate Changes for Safer Spaces

In addition to the overarching recommendations, UMMEED suggests several immediate changes that can contribute to safer school environments. These include the practice of locking all empty classrooms to prevent unauthorized access, ensuring there are no dark or isolated areas within the school premises, and maintaining well-kept garden areas. These seemingly small adjustments can play a significant role in creating a safer and more welcoming atmosphere for students.

UMMEED is not merely an organization; it is a beacon of hope and a catalyst for transformative change. By adhering to their core principles of understanding, motivating, managing, empathizing, empowering, and developing, they have set in motion a movement that prioritizes the well-being of every child. In a world brimming with challenges, UMMEED serves as a shining example of what can be achieved when hope is nurtured, compassion is ignited, and action is taken.

World Arthritis Day: All you need to know about Arthritis

By
Dimple Arora
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0

Dr. Pramiti Rastogi shares her knowledge on World Arthritis Day..

World Arthritis Day is observed annually on October 12 to raise awareness about rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) that affect the joints, bones and connective tissues. This year’s theme is “Living with an RMD at all stages of life” and focuses on the challenges and opportunities for people with RMDs in different phases of life.

Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints that may affect one joint or multiple joints.

Arthritis can cause pain, stiffness, swelling, redness, and decreased range of motion in the affected joints. It can also affect other organs and systems in the body, such as the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels.

The two main types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear of the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones in the joints. It usually occurs in older adults and affects the weight-bearing joints, such as the knees, hips, and spine. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to attack the lining of the joints (synovial membrane). It can affect any joint in the body and often occurs in younger adults, especially women.

Factors Causing Arthritis

The exact causes of arthritis are not fully understood, but some factors may increase the risk of developing certain types of arthritis. The factors include: Family history; Increasing age; Gender(Women are more likely than men to develop rheumatoid arthritis and other types of inflammatory arthritis); Obesity; Injury: Infection; Metabolic disorders (Conditions that affect the metabolism of certain substances in the body, such as gout (caused by high levels of uric acid) or pseudogout (caused by calcium pyrophosphate crystals), can cause arthritis); Some diseases that affect other organs or systems in the body, such as psoriasis , lupus, or diabetes can also cause arthritis.

Signs and Symptoms of Arthritis

– The signs and symptoms of arthritis vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. 

– Joint pain: The pain may be constant or intermittent, mild or severe, sharp or dull. It may worsen with movement or activity.

– Joint stiffness: The stiffness may be worse in the morning or after a period of rest. It may limit the range of motion or flexibility of the joint.

– Joint swelling: The swelling may be due to fluid accumulation or inflammation in the joint. It may make the joint feel warm or tender to touch.

– Joint redness: The redness may be due to increased blood flow or infection in the joint. It may make the skin over the joint look flushed or inflamed.

– Joint deformity: The deformity may be due to bone erosion, cartilage loss, or joint damage. It may change the shape or alignment of the joint.

– Other symptoms: Depending on the type of arthritis and its impact on other organs or systems in the body, other symptoms may include fever, fatigue, weight loss, skin rashes, eye problems, lung problems, heart problems, nerve problems, or blood problems.

Treatment of Arthritis

There is no permanent cure for arthritis, but there are various treatments that can help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. The treatment options depend on the type and severity of arthritis, as well as the patient’s preferences and goals. These include: Medications like analgesics, corticosteroids, DMARDs, biologic agents, or gout medications ;

Surgical procedures such as arthroscopy, joint replacement, or joint fusion; 

Therapies like exercises, stretches, or massage, occupational therapy, acupuncture, yoga, or tai chi can help to improve joint function, mobility, and strength. 

Preventive Measures for Arthritis

– Arthritis cannot always be prevented, but there are some steps that can help reduce the risk of developing arthritis or delay its onset. These steps include:

Maintaining a healthy weight; Eating a balanced diet: A healthy diet can provide the nutrients and antioxidants that are essential for joint health and function. Foods that have anti-inflammatory properties, such as fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, and olive oil, may help reduce inflammation and pain. Foods that have inflammatory properties, such as sugar, refined carbohydrates, saturated fats, and processed meats, may worsen inflammation and pain; Exercising regularly; Protecting the joints: Avoiding injuries or infections that can damage the joints is important for preventing arthritis; Managing other conditions: Controlling other diseases that can affect the joints or increase the risk of arthritis is also important for preventing arthritis. 

Arthritis is a common disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It can cause pain and disability and affect the quality of life of those who have it.

World Arthritis Day is an opportunity to raise awareness about arthritis and its impact on individuals and society. It also encourages people to seek early diagnosis and treatment and to adopt healthy lifestyles to prevent or manage arthritis.

By working together with healthcare providers, researchers, policymakers, and support groups, people with arthritis can overcome the challenges and live well with their condition.

IIM Sambalpur Launches First MBA Batch for Working Professionals in Delhi

By
Dimple Arora
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0

IIM Sambalpur, one of India’s premier management institutes, has officially inaugurated its first MBA batch tailored for working professionals in Delhi. This marks a significant achievement for IIM Sambalpur, offering a platform for working professionals and entrepreneurs to pursue their management education while continuing their business pursuits. The program stands out for its focus on Data Science, Product Management, Innovation, and Startups, in addition to core functional areas.

Dr. Alok Kumar Mishra, Joint Secretary of the Association of Indian Universities, emphasized the significance of the credit system introduced in the National Education Policy, which allows students to participate in institutions across the country and abroad.

Shatanik Goswami, Lead Consultant at Google Cloud Consulting, praised Professor Mahadev Jaiswal, Director of IIM Sambalpur, for the achievement and highlighted the crucial aspects of Product Management, particularly the interconnection of business, interests, and experience within startups.

Professor Rajeev Tandon, former CEO of SC Johnson, discussed “Product Management in the Era of 4.0” and the need for a shift in perspectives on brand and product development.

Deepak Sharma, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of India Accelerator, highlighted innovation-based entrepreneurship, emphasizing the fusion of imaginative thinking with efficient execution.

One of the most inspiring aspects of IIM Sambalpur’s inaugural MBA batch for Working Professionals is Shri G M Gupta, an 80-year-old entrepreneur who passionately shared his enthusiasm for learning. He’s the owner of a startup in the defense sector and believes that the exposure to new technologies, case studies, and unlearning old rules will enable him to manage more effectively.

IIM Sambalpur will host the prestigious “Pan IIM World Management Conference – 2023” from December 21 to 23, 2023, under the theme “Entrepreneurial Innovation and Digital Governance for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth.”

IIM Sambalpur is a premier management institution committed to providing quality education, fostering entrepreneurship, and developing socially responsible leaders. Located in Sambalpur, Odisha, it offers a flagship 2-year MBA program and is renowned for its admissions through CAT. The institute boasts an average package of INR 16.64 LPA, with a maximum package reaching INR 64.61 LPA for the 2023 batch.

This new MBA program aims to equip working professionals with the latest skills and knowledge, promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, and fostering an inclusive and sustainable approach to management and leadership.

Ratnaakar Group Joins Hands with Barkville Foundation to Create a Green Oasis for Rescued Animals

By
Dimple Arora
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0

In a remarkable display of environmental stewardship, Ratnaakar Group has partnered with the Barkville Foundation to establish a Green Oasis for Rescued Animals. Launched on September 28th, this initiative underscores Ratnaakar Group’s unwavering commitment to providing a safe and nurturing haven for the animals in the care of the Barkville Foundation. The central message of this partnership is crystal clear: “Earth is for All.”

Founders Swati Verma and Hemani Mod of the Barkville Foundation expressed their profound gratitude to Ratnaakar Group and extended their appreciation to the dedicated employees of Ratnaakar who actively participated in a tree plantation drive. Under this extraordinary initiative, a thousand trees of diverse species, including Neem, Drumstick, Billi Patra, Madudo, Champa, and Jasud, were meticulously planted. The designated area underwent thorough preparation, including tilling and pit creation for plantation, and protective fences were installed to safeguard specific plants. Furthermore, a drip irrigation system was implemented to ensure efficient water usage and accelerate the growth of the newly planted trees.

Nishant Shah, Joint Managing Director of Ratnaakar Group, emphasized the significance of the project, stating, “Caring for our planet and its inhabitants is not just a responsibility; it’s our privilege. Through our partnership with the Barkville Foundation, we are nurturing a Green Oasis for Rescued Animals, a sanctuary that embodies the spirit of harmony and coexistence. Together, we are sowing the seeds of compassion and sustainability, ensuring that ‘Earth is for All,’ now and for generations to come.”

Situated on a vast 17,000 square feet of land in Dabhod, Gandhinagar, the Barkville Foundation is on a mission to offer a second chance to our four-legged companions. Their steadfast commitment revolves around providing a safe and caring home for animals in dire need, irrespective of their size or past traumas. Barkville’s vision extends to ending the cycle of abuse and pet overpopulation through rescue operations, investigations, spay/neuter programs, and educational initiatives while fostering lasting bonds between humans and animals through adoption programs.

Initially focused on rescuing and rehabilitating homeless (stray) dogs and animals, the post-COVID landscape brought new challenges, mainly related to abandoned pets. Presently, Barkville provides shelter to 85 abandoned pet dogs, including Labradors, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, St. Bernards, Beagles, Pitbulls, and various mixed breeds. In addition to dogs, the facility houses cows, horses, kittens, bunnies, and numerous birds.

Running a shelter for such a diverse array of animals comes with its share of challenges, with funding being a primary obstacle. The invaluable assistance of volunteers and organizations in various capacities, including fundraising, caring for the shelter’s residents, participating in educational efforts, and promoting adoptions through personal and social media connections, plays a crucial role in addressing these challenges.

Ratnaakar Group, a stalwart in the construction industry for over three decades, is known for creating spaces that fulfill dreams and inspire trust. With a steadfast commitment to innovation, integrity, superior workmanship, timely delivery, and the highest level of professionalism, Ratnaakar Group has garnered the trust of over a thousand satisfied clients and business partners, residing across a remarkable 4.8 million square feet area of residential and commercial spaces.

When Barkville envisioned creating an open and green space for their cherished animal residents, they knew they could trust Ratnaakar Group to partner with them in bringing joy and happiness to their furry friends. The joint endeavor aimed to plant a variety of trees in a designated space on the Barkville campus, complete with a protective fence to create a safe environment for vulnerable animals, allowing them to heal. This heartwarming initiative not only benefits the animals but also underscores the importance of sustainability and compassion for all living creatures.

Largest Hindu Temple Outside India Inaugurated In New Jersey

By
Dimple Arora
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0

BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, the largest Hindu temple in the US, opened its doors on Sunday, October 8, in New Jersey, making it the largest Hindu temple outside India in the modern era.

Craftsmanship and Construction

The temple is a testament to remarkable craftsmanship, made from four varieties of marble sourced from Italy and limestone from Bulgaria. These precious materials traveled over 8,000 miles to reach their final destination in New Jersey. Intricately carved pieces were assembled on-site, culminating in the creation of this monumental Hindu temple.

Spanning 126 acres, the temple is a monumental architectural masterpiece achieved through the dedication of artisans and volunteers who invested approximately 4.7 million hours to meticulously hand-carve around two million cubic feet of stone.

Adorned with Historical Figures

Adorning the temple walls are carvings of historical figures, including Martin Luther King Jr. and Abraham Lincoln. The temple’s grandeur has left visitors astounded, with one volunteer describing it as a transportive experience to India.

Collaborative Effort and Unique Features

The Akshardham temple’s construction involved 12,500 volunteers from around the world, working tirelessly since 2011. Notably, it features the largest elliptical stone dome ever built.

Global Landmark

Globally, BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardhams serve as landmarks of Hindu art, architecture, and culture, welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. The New Jersey Akshardham marks the third such cultural complex worldwide, following those in Gandhinagar, India (1992), and New Delhi (2005).

Grand Dedication Ceremony

At the inauguration ceremony, Mahant Swami Maharaj conducted the ‘Pran Prathistha’ ritual, surrounded by traditional ceremonies and rituals. India’s Permanent Representative at the UN, Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj, led a delegation of ambassadors and representatives from the United Nations to the temple ahead of the grand dedication ceremony.

The Akshardham temple in New Jersey stands as a symbol of devotion, dedication, and a testament to the rich Hindu heritage, welcoming people of all backgrounds to experience its grandeur.

Government of India Establishes National Turmeric Board to Boost Industry

By
Dimple Arora
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0

In a significant move to promote the turmeric industry, the Government of India has officially notified the establishment of the National Turmeric Board. This newly formed board aims to play a pivotal role in fostering the growth and development of turmeric and its associated products within the country.

The National Turmeric Board will serve as a beacon for all matters concerning turmeric, enhancing collaborative efforts, and fostering closer coordination with existing bodies such as the Spices Board and other government agencies. Its primary focus will be on harnessing the immense potential of turmeric, capitalizing on its health and wellness benefits that have garnered global attention.

The key objectives of the National Turmeric Board encompass:

  1. Increasing Awareness and Consumption: The board will strive to raise awareness and stimulate higher consumption of turmeric both domestically and internationally.
  2. Exploring New International Markets: Efforts will be made to develop new international markets for turmeric exports, contributing to India’s position as the world’s largest producer and exporter of turmeric.
  3. Research and Development: Encouraging research and development to explore innovative turmeric-based products and capitalize on traditional knowledge for creating value-added turmeric products.
  4. Capacity Building: Focus on enhancing the skills and capabilities of turmeric growers, enabling them to gain more value from their produce.
  5. Quality and Food Safety Standards: Promoting adherence to quality and food safety standards, ensuring that turmeric from India maintains its reputation for quality and safety.
  6. Realizing Turmeric’s Full Potential: The board aims to fully harness turmeric’s potential, ensuring that its benefits are utilized for the betterment of humanity.

The activities of the National Turmeric Board are expected to contribute significantly to the well-being and prosperity of turmeric growers by bringing value addition closer to the farms. This approach will enable growers to receive better returns for their produce. Moreover, the board’s emphasis on research, market development, consumption, and value addition will solidify India’s position in global markets as a leading exporter of high-quality turmeric and related products.

The composition of the board includes a Chairperson appointed by the Central Government, representatives from various ministries and departments, state government representatives on a rotation basis, research institutions, farmers, exporters, and a Secretary appointed by the Department of Commerce.

India currently dominates the global turmeric industry as the largest producer, consumer, and exporter. In the 2022-23 season, India cultivated turmeric across 3.24 lakh hectares, yielding over 11.61 lakh tonnes, representing over 75% of global turmeric production. The country boasts over 30 turmeric varieties grown in more than 20 states, with Maharashtra, Telangana, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu being the top producing states.

With a substantial share of over 62% in global turmeric trade, India exported 1.534 lakh tonnes of turmeric and its products valued at $207.45 million USD in 2022-23. Leading export destinations for Indian turmeric include Bangladesh, the UAE, the USA, and Malaysia.

With the National Turmeric Board’s concerted efforts, it is anticipated that turmeric exports will surge to an impressive $1 billion USD by 2030, cementing India’s position as a global leader in the turmeric industry.

Maharaja Agrasen – The Legendary King who lives for people 

By
Dimple Arora
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0

Priyanshi Pareek reports on Maharaja Agrasen Jayanti..

Maharaja Agrasen Jayanti is a regional public holiday in India, usually observed in Haryana and Punjab, though it may be observed in some years in Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. It is observed on the fourth day of Ashwin, the seventh month in the Hindu calendar. 

This holiday is celebrated on the birth anniversary of the legendary Hindu king, Agrasen Maharaj.

This year it will be celebrated on 15th October, 2023.

About Maharaja Agrasen

Prince Agrasen was born on 15th September 3082 BCE to Suryavanshi Maharaja Vallabh of Pratap Nagar (in today’s Rajasthan, India) in the last stage of Dvaapar Yug. 

Maharaja Vallabh named a city on Prince Agrasen’s name as ‘Agra’ (in today’s Uttar Pradesh, India).

Prince Agrasen was very well known for his compassion, who never discriminated against anyone and the subjects were very pleased with the way he conducted himself during his childhood. 

Unfortunately, Maharaja Vallabh was martyrdom during the Mahabharat War. During the martyrdom of Maharaja Vallabh, Prince Agrasen was 15 years old. Being the eldest son, Prince Agrasen was crowned as successor.

When Agrasen became a young man, he attended the Swyamvara of the daughter of the King Nagaraj, Princess Madhavi. The Princess Madhavi selected Prince Agrasen, by putting the garland on him.

Work of Maharaja Agrasen 

Maharaja Agrasen was a doer who conjured prosperity for all. An adherent of Socialism, he devised a unique rule in order to ensure an egalitarian society. 

He promulgated that any person coming to Agroha to settle down permanently, shall be given one rupee, one brick, by each resident of Agroha. With the bricks he could build a house for living and with the money collected he could set up his own business. This way through a small help by each a person could attain an equal status in the society of equals. 

He adopted the ideal of Non-Violence during the 18th Yagna, wherein he realised the futility of animal sacrifices. The Yagna was being performed for the establishment of the 18th Gotra. This realisation led him to become one of the strong protagonists of Non-Violence.

Sammakka-Sarakka Jatara: The Grand Celebration of Tribal Heritage

By
Simran Saini
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0

Nestled deep within the heartland of India, the tranquil village of Medaram, located in Telangana’s Mulugu district, bursts into a riot of colours, sounds, and spiritual fervour during the biennial tribal festival known as Sammakka-Sarakka Jatara. Often referred to as Medaram Jatara, this extraordinary event unfolds in the month of Magha, typically coinciding with Sudha Pournami, the full moon day, which usually graces the second or third week of February. This festival serves as an awe-inspiring showcase of the profound traditions and rich cultural heritage of the Koya tribal people.

The Legend Behind the Name

Sammakka-Sarakka Jatara pays homage to a momentous tribal uprising that unfolded in the 12th century. During a period of devastating drought, the Kakatiya rulers imposed harsh taxes on tribal communities. Leading the charge against this injustice was the formidable mother-daughter duo, Sammakka and Saralamma. Today, millions of pilgrims gather in Medaram to seek the blessings of the warrior goddess Sammakka and her daughter Sarakka during this grand fair.

A Festival of Remarkable Scale

Sammakka-Sarakka Jatara proudly bears the distinction of being the largest tribal religious festival in Asia. Official records from the Telangana government reveal that this three-day extravaganza attracts over 10 million devotees hailing from various Indian states, including Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Jharkhand. The magnitude of this gathering underscores the festival’s profound significance in the hearts and minds of the attendees.

Enriching Rituals and Offerings

Visitors to Medaram during the festival are treated to a spectacle of rituals and offerings. Devotees bring vermilion, jaggery, and sacrificial animals as offerings to the revered goddesses. They sing songs that eulogize the valour of Sammakka and Sarakka, believing that these deities possess the power to infuse courage into their souls. Before presenting their offerings, devotees must purify themselves by taking a dip in Jampanna Vagu, a tributary of the River Godavari, cleansing their souls of sins.

The fields surrounding the Medaram temple sprawl across several acres, and neighbouring villages teem with temporary shelters erected to accommodate the influx of devotees.

Three Days of Devotion

On the first day of Sammakka-Sarakka Jatara, tribal priests ceremoniously retrieve the casket of vermilion, believed to belong to Sarakka, from the forests. The atmosphere resonates with the frenzied beats of drums, the blaring of trumpets, and unceasing chants. Deities representing other Koya warriors are also brought forth on this day.

The second day witnesses the emergence of the principal deity, Sammakka, from Chilakkalagutta. Devotees offer jaggery equivalent to their own weight to the goddess. Other valuable items such as money, saris, bangles, gold, and coconuts find their place on the temple’s altar. Fowls and goats are sacrificed to honour the goddess’s divine presence. On the third and final day, the priests return the deities to their forest abodes, marking the poignant conclusion of the festival.

A River of Significance

One of the most revered aspects of Sammakka-Sarakka Jatara is the ritualistic dip taken by devotees in Jampanna Vagu, a tributary of the River Godavari. This waterway derives its name from the tribal warrior Jampanna, the son of the tribal goddess Sammakka, who met his heroic end while confronting the Kakatiyan Army in this very stream. Local lore attributes the river’s striking red hue to Jampanna’s blood, although scientific analysis attributes the colour to the soil and mineral composition.

Navigating the Journey

Medaram remains a remote destination nestled within the Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary, a part of Dandakaranya, the largest surviving forest belt in Mulugu. Accessing this spiritual haven is facilitated by special Medaram Jatara-bound trains departing from Secundrabad Railway Station to Kazipet/Warangal. From there, travellers can catch a Jatara-bound TSRTC bus. TSRTC also provides special bus services from Warangal and Hyderabad to Medaram village, with region-specific queues at Medaram Bus Stand to streamline traffic management.

Sammakka-Sarakka Jatara stands as a resplendent testament to India’s diverse tapestry of traditions and spirituality. It beckons people from diverse backgrounds to celebrate the tenacity and valour of its tribal heroes, Sammakka and Sarakka. More than just a festival, it is a testament to the enduring spirit of a people and their unwavering faith in their ancestral deities.

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