(Image originally published in India Today, October 2024.) A tale from across the sea and time The Parsis didn’t arrive in India with drums or declarations. They came quietly, after much had already been lost. Generations ago—some say more than a thousand years—Zoroastrians fled their homeland in Persia. Their temples had been desecrated, their way […]
The Milk, the Sugar, and the Spark – Story of the Parsis Read More »
As winter’s grip softens and the first tender shoots push through the earth, cultures around the world awaken to the promise of renewal. Throughout the ages, the sacred feminine has been celebrated as the nurturer of life, wisdom, and beauty—a force that transforms darkness into light. In this post, we explore the timeless myths and
Divine Feminine: Folklore, Myths, and the Sacred Women of Spring Read More »
Since time immemorial, fire has been the heart of human ritual—both a physical necessity and a sacred force. Across ancient civilizations, fire symbolized transformation, purification, and the power of the divine. Nowhere is this more evident than in the great seasonal festivals that marked the turning of the year, particularly around the equinoxes and
Origins of Ancient Rituals: Fire, Renewal, and the Turning of the Seasons Read More »
Once upon a time, before black pepper became the undisputed king of spices, there was another—more complex, more aromatic, and far more coveted. Long pepper (Piper longum), with its warm, layered heat and hints of cardamom and nutmeg, was the true jewel of the ancient spice trade. Revered in India, sought after in Rome, and
Long Pepper: The Forgotten Spice of Kings Read More »
As winter loosens its grip and the world awakens with the warmth of spring, ancient cultures wove stories to make sense of this grand transformation. These myths, rich in symbolism, reflect a universal theme—rebirth, fertility, and the triumph of light over darkness. From goddesses of dawn to underworld journeys, spring’s return has always been told
Folklore & Myths of Spring: The Eternal Dance of Light and Life Read More »
As winter loosens its icy grip, the world stirs with new life. Buds push through the softened earth, rivers swell with melted snow, and the air hums with the promise of renewal. Across ancient civilizations, this great awakening of nature was not merely observed—it was celebrated with fire, feasts, and fervent devotion. From the flickering
Seasonal Festivals of Spring: Welcoming the Return of Light Read More »
There comes a moment in the wheel of the year when the earth stands in perfect balance—day and night equal, light and dark in harmony. This is the Spring Equinox, a celestial event that has been honoured for millenia across civilisations, marking the rebirth of the land, the renewal of life, and the return of
Spring Equinox: The Time of Balance and Renewal Read More »
From the ancient fire altars of Vedic seers to the spice-laden routes of the Silk Road, from sacred beekeeping in Egyptian temples to salt’s role in Celtic purification rites—certain ingredients have shaped our rituals, medicines, and seasonal feasts for millennia. As winter fades and the earth stirs to life, salt, honey, and spices reemerge
Salt, Honey, and Spices: Sacred Ingredients of Spring Read More »
Uttarakhand’s rugged terrain and varied climate have long nurtured a unique array of natural ingredients. Many of these ingredients, once staples in local kitchens, continue to play an important role in traditional recipes and health practices. Below is a closer look at some of these foraged treasures: Lingda (Fiddlehead Ferns) What It Is: Lingda
Forgotten Ingredients of Uttarakhand Read More »
When most people hear the word bhang, their minds instantly leap to Holi celebrations, intoxicating thandai, and loud, colourful revelry. But in the hills of Uttarakhand, bhang — the seeds of the cannabis plant — holds a surprisingly dignified place in traditional cuisine. Yes, you heard that right — bhang isn’t just for festive
Bhang on Your Plate: Uttarakhand’s Unusual Culinary Ingredient Read More »