Notes and Study material for Exams
Ramanuja: The Architect of Vishishtadvaita Vedanta Introduction: Ramanuja, a towering figure in the history of Hindu philosophy, stands as one of the most influential proponents of Vedanta, the philosophical system derived from the Upanishads. His unique interpretation of Vedanta, known as Vishishtadvaita (qualified non-dualism), has profoundly shaped the religious and philosophical landscape of Hinduism, particularly … Read more
Adi Shankara: The Architect of Advaita Vedanta Adi Shankara, a towering figure in the history of Hinduism, was a philosopher, theologian, and social reformer who profoundly shaped the religious landscape of India. Born in the 8th century CE, he is revered as the most influential exponent of Advaita Vedanta, a non-dualistic philosophy that emphasizes the … Read more
Beyond the Booker: Exploring Other Literary Honours in India The literary landscape of India is vibrant and diverse, teeming with talented writers across genres and languages. While the prestigious Man Booker Prize has gained international recognition, it only scratches the surface of the rich tapestry of literary awards that celebrate Indian writing. This article delves … Read more
The Kumbh Mela: A Sea of Faith and Cultural Tapestry The Kumbh Mela, a massive Hindu pilgrimage and festival, is a spectacle unlike any other. It is a confluence of faith, culture, and human spirit, drawing millions of devotees from across India and the world. This article delves into the history, significance, rituals, and cultural … Read more
The Nyaya School: A Journey Through Logic and Epistemology in Ancient India The Nyaya school of Indian philosophy, one of the six orthodox (Ästika) schools of Hinduism, stands as a testament to the ancient Indian pursuit of knowledge and understanding. While often overshadowed by the more prominent schools like Vedanta, Nyaya’s unique focus on logic … Read more
The Vaisheshika School: A Journey into the Realm of Atomism and Metaphysics The Vaisheshika school, one of the six orthodox (Ästika) schools of Hindu philosophy, stands out for its unique approach to understanding the nature of reality. Unlike other schools that focus on the nature of Brahman or the path to liberation, Vaisheshika delves into … Read more
Shramana: A Journey Through Ancient Indian Thought and Practice The term “Shramana” holds a significant place in the tapestry of ancient Indian thought and practice. It signifies a broad spectrum of ascetic and philosophical movements that emerged in the pre-Buddhist and early Buddhist periods, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural and religious landscape of … Read more
Sankirtana: The Ecstatic Chant of Devotion Sankirtana, a Sanskrit term meaning “congregational chanting,” is a powerful devotional practice deeply rooted in the Hindu tradition, particularly within the Vaishnava sect. It involves the collective chanting of sacred names, mantras, and hymns, often accompanied by musical instruments and rhythmic movements. This practice, transcending mere vocalization, is a … Read more
Jat-Jatin The Jats are a large and influential ethnic group found in the northern Indian states of Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. They are also found in smaller numbers in other parts of India, as well as in Pakistan and Afghanistan. The Jats are a warrior caste, and have a long history of military … Read more
Kathak: A Journey Through Time and Emotion Kathak, a captivating Indian classical dance form, is a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of the subcontinent. Its origins can be traced back to the ancient bards, the “Kathaks,” who traveled from village to village, narrating stories and epics through rhythmic gestures and expressive movements. Over centuries, … Read more