Culture

Ashoka shines and shines brightly like a bright star

Amidst the tens of thousands of names of monarchs that crowd the columns of history, their majesties and graciousnesses and serenities and royal highnesses and the like, the name of Asoka shines, and shines, almost alone, a star. From the Volga to Japan his name is still honoured. China, Tibet, and even India, though it has left his doctrine, preserve the tradition of his greatness. More living men cherish his memory to-day than have ever heard the names of Constantine or Charlemagne.

India is not a melting pot but a thali

If America is a melting pot, then to me India is a thali — a collection of sumptuous dishes in different bowls. Each may not mix with the next, but they combine on your palate to produce a satisfying repast.

India is not an underdeveloped country

India is not, as people keep calling it, an underdeveloped country, but rather, in the context of its history and cultural heritage, a highly developed one in an advanced state of decay.

Holy Cow

Until around the 20th century, the cow was considered sacred (and beef taboo) in Japan, China, and other parts of South East Asia. It was also similarly considered in Ancient Egypt.

Mount Semeru in Java

Mount Semeru, a volcanic mountain in East Java, Indonesia, is named after Mount Sumeru (or simply Meru) from Hindu mythology. Meru is said to be at the centre of the cosmos.

Ayurveda's nine doors

Ayurvedic diagnosis includes an examination of the body's nine doors (नवद्वार): two each of eyes, ears, and nostrils, along with the mouth, genitalia, and the anus.

The Kichidi Kedgeree

The British breakfast dish of Kedgeree, which consists of rice, smoked haddock, eggs, parsley, and butter or cream, is said to have been adapted from the Indian Kichidi.

Culture