The Jagannath Rath Yatra

by Shree Sauparnika V In the sacred town of Puri, a festival unfolds each year that draws millions to its streets and millions more in prayer. It is a celebration of devotion, tradition, and the bond between the divine and the devotee. Ancient in its origins and grand in its scale, it is one of […]

Temples that Rose from the Ashes

by Shree Sauparnika V Temples in India are not just structures of stone and mortar — they are living legacies. They carry echoes of chants, the rhythm of footsteps, and the weight of centuries. In their silence, they have witnessed celebration and sorrow, kings and commoners, seasons of abundance and times of destruction. Some still […]

Waking up to Vishu

By Adithya Ganapathy (Age -12) It is the first day of Medam. Crops are about to be harvested, and then Vishu comes. Vishu, also known as the Malayali New Year, is a Hindu festival celebrated in Kerala.  It is believed that on this day, Lord Krishna killed Narakasura, a demon. It is also celebrated as the […]

The Goan Carnival: A Festive Extravaganza

By Shree Sauparnika V Every year, just before the beginning of Lent, the coastal state of Goa comes alive with the vivid colours, lively music, and infectious energy of the Carnival. This vibrant festival that takes place in February or March, is a unique celebration that embodies the rich cultural heritage and Portuguese influence in […]

Savitribai and Jyotirao Phule

By Shree Sauparnika V In the 19th century, India was grappling with numerous social issues, including caste discrimination, gender inequality, and a lack of access to education, especially for marginalised communities. At this critical juncture, two remarkable individuals emerged as champions of reform: Savitribai Phule and her husband, Jyotirao Phule. Their tireless efforts towards education […]

Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj

By Mahima Sankar Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is well-known as the founder of the Maratha Empire, but what of the other leaders who continued his legacy? After Shivaji Maharaj, it was his oldest son – Chhatrapati Sambhaji – who went on to expand his father’s empire, becoming one of the most formidable Maratha leaders.  Read more about the […]

Makara Sankranti in Kumaon

By Vijita Mukherjee Makara Sankranti is celebrated with a lot of enthusiasm in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. On this day, known as Uttarayani or Ghughuti (घुघुति) in Kumaon, the sun enters the zodiac sign of ‘Makara’ (Capricorn), and starts to move to the north (uttar). With a change of season, the migratory birds start […]

Uncle Pai: India’s Favourite Storyteller

By Sharanya Iyer Everybody loves a good story, but only some have the true gift of storytelling. One such gifted individual was Anant Pai. So intense was his love for storytelling that he built his entire life around it. Known as the father of the Indian comic industry, Anant Pai was an immensely generous person […]

Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya  (1861 – 1946)

He was the man who popularised the slogan Satyameva Jayate, Truth will Triumph. Patriot, educationist, social reformer and lawyer, Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya is a towering figure in the story of our independence. His vision and hard work created Benaras Hindu University (BHU). He was a prolific writer and journalist. Pandit Malaviya’s political career saw […]

Tarabai Shinde: The Fiery Feminist

By Nainika Nambiar The 19th century saw a lot of changes in Indian society. It was a time of reform and progress in areas like education, gender equality, caste equality and more. During this phase of promoting an equal society, Tarabai Shinde was one of the very few courageous women who stood up to advocate […]

Meghnad Saha: India’s Pioneer Astrophysicist

By Krishna Priya  Imagine gazing up at the stars and wondering about the secrets they hold. Now, imagine being able to unlock those secrets with a revolutionary equation that reveals the hidden properties of stars. This is precisely what Meghnad Saha, a visionary Indian astrophysicist, achieved in the early 20th century. Meghnad literally means ‘one […]

A ‘Comical’ Journey in the History Classroom

By Mangalam Narayanan and Lakshmi Madhusudan History is considered boring and studying for and writing history exams is nothing less than a chore. Some of the more enterprising teachers have devised interesting ways of teaching history, but what about history exams? How can we make history exams inspiring and engaging for our students? Have you […]

The Pancha Sakha Poets

By Jayshree Misra Tripathi The Pancha Sakha or the Five Friends were a group of five poet-philosophers who heralded great change in Medieval Odisha (also known as Udra Desa). These scholars translated Hindu texts written in Sanskrit into simple prose, that could be easily understood by the common folk.   The Pancha Sakha resided in […]

The Margamkali Dance

The Syrian Christian community of Kerala is one of the oldest Christian communities in India, dating back to the first century CE. Margamkali is a traditional dance performed by them in which a dozen dancers, wearing the traditional chatta (blouse) and mundu (dhoti) dance around a brass lamp. The dance incorporates the martial arts of […]

Yubee-Lakpee

Yubee-Lakpee literally means ‘coconut-snatching’, which is a high-energy Manipuri game. In Manipur, able-bodied young men clutch a large coconut, its husk oiled thoroughly, and dodge other players to reach the goal. Yubee-Lakpee is almost like rugby in its roughness but definitely more difficult. Even the bodies of the players are greased! Each team has seven […]

Famous Quotes #26

Here is a quote by the Greek philosopher Socrates, which tells us to stop and smell the roses from time to time.

Famous Quotes #25

Here is a quote by author Salman Rushdie, which talks about the importance of changing one’s perspective.

Bali Jatra: The Voyage to Bali

By Jayshree Misra Tripathi In the month of Karthika of the Hindu Lunar Calendar, that falls mid-October to mid-November, the night of the full moon is called Karthika Purnima. A festival is celebrated in Odisha to honour ancient mariners and traders, called Sadhabas. On this night, they would set sail for the distant shores of […]

Famous Quotes #24

Here is an interesting quote by the poet Rumi, which encourages us to introspect and change ourselves before trying to change others.

The Dree Festival

India is full of unique festivals and celebrations, which differ from region to region. One such interesting and important festival is Dree, which is celebrated in the months of June and July in Arunachal Pradesh. This is an agricultural festival, aimed at pleasing the gods and praying for a bountiful harvest. According to the legend, […]

The Festival of Gangaur

In the month of Chaitra, falling between March and April, parts of North and Central India celebrate the festival of Gangaur. The word Gangaur comes from ‘gana’ referring to Shiva and ‘gaur’ which refers to Gauri, another name for Parvati. This festival is dedicated to Parvati, the goddess of marriage and fertility, and is celebrated […]

The Warrior Queens of Medieval Odisha

By Jayshree Misra Tripathi The Bhaumakara Reign  In the first half of 8th century CE, the Bhaumakara dynasty had conquered and unified the kingdoms of Kangoda, Kalinga and Toshali, in the eastern region of the Indian subcontinent. Their rule would extend for over two centuries, from 736 CE to 945 CE. This period was also a […]

The Story of Petha

By Zaara D’Souza Petha is a famous sweet from Agra. Juicy on the inside and crisp on the outside, this delectable treat is made from white pumpkin (also known as winter melon or ash gourd), and soaked in rose sugar syrup to lend it a sweet, refreshing taste. As the story goes, it was first […]

Nature in the Saptaswara

The Saptaswara (the seven notes) form the basis of Indian Classical Music. Did you know that these notes are said to have originated from nature? The notes – Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, Ni – are believed to come from the sounds made by various animals. Shadja or Sa: Cry of the peacock in […]

Amla Navami

Every year, in the month of November, people celebrate Amla Navami, a day dedicated to the worship of Amla or the Gooseberry tree. Also known as Akshaya Navami, this festival falls in the month of Kartik, as per the Hindu calendar. According the various legends in the Skanda Purana, Padma Purana and Vishnu Purana, the […]

Vishkanya: The Ancient Assassins

Did you know about the deadly female assassins of ancient India? These women were called ‘Vishkanya’, which literally translates to ‘Poison Maiden.’ These assassins were said to be used by kings and ministers to administer poison to their political rivals, in various ways. Read on to know more these mysterious figures.   Historical Mentions   […]

Famous Quotes #23

Here is a quote about the importance of maintaining the right relationships for the right reasons, from the Drona Parva of the Mahabharata.

Arati Saha: A Swimming Legend

By Zaara D’Souza Arati Saha was a swimming legend, who created history when she became the first Asian woman to swim across the English Channel, at the young age of 19. Read on to know more about her life.  Childhood Arati Saha was born in 1940 in Kolkata, West Bengal to a middle class family.  […]

Khar: The Astringent of Assam

By Shakthi Bharathi and Himasweeta Sarma According to Ayurveda, there are six tastes known as the ‘rasas’. Each rasa plays its own role in boosting health and influencing the taster’s mood. Thus, the perfect meal has to contain all six rasas: salty, sweet, pungent, sour, bitter, and astringent.   Astringents, the last of these, are peculiar. […]

Sundakkai: The Bitter Berry

By Shakthi Bharathi  According to Ayurveda, there are six tastes known as the ‘rasas’. Each rasa plays its own role in boosting health and influencing the taster’s mood. Thus, the perfect meal has to contain all six rasas: salty, sweet, pungent, sour, bitter, and astringent.   Bitterness often gets a bad reputation as the smell of […]

Kokum: The Versatile Fruit

By Shakthi Bharathi According to Ayurveda, there are six tastes known as the ‘rasas’. Each rasa plays its own role in boosting health and influencing the taster’s mood. Thus, the perfect meal has to contain all six rasas: salty, sweet, pungent, sour, bitter, and astringent.   ‘Sour’ is a combination of the first three—it has the […]

Kadambini Ganguly: A Pathbreaking Doctor

Did you know that Kadambini Ganguly was the first woman practitioner of western medicine not only in India but in all of South Asia? She was also the first woman speaker in the Indian National Congress. Read more to learn some interesting facts about this inspiring woman.  -By Srinidhi Murthy  Early Life and Education  Kadambini […]

Raja Mircha: The King of Chilies

By Shakthi Bharathi According to Ayurveda, there are six tastes known as the ‘rasas’. Each rasa plays its own role in boosting health and influencing the taster’s mood. Thus, the perfect meal has to contain all six rasas: salty, sweet, pungent, sour, bitter, and astringent.   India has been invaded time and again for its greatest […]

Jaggery: The Healthy Sugar

By Shakthi Bharathi  According to Ayurveda, there are six tastes known as the ‘rasas’. Each rasa plays its own role in boosting health and influencing the taster’s mood. Thus, the perfect meal has to contain all six rasas: salty, sweet, pungent, sour, bitter, and astringent.   India, known for its festive sweets as much as its […]

Kala Namak: The Black Salt

By Shakthi Bharathi  According to Ayurveda, there are six tastes known as the ‘rasas’. Each rasa plays its own role in boosting health and influencing the taster’s mood. Thus, the perfect meal has to contain all six rasas: salty, sweet, pungent, sour, bitter, and astringent.   Salt, the first of these, has always been valuable […]

Bhanu Athaiya: India’s First Oscar Winner

By Zaara D’Souza Bhanumati Rajopadhye (now Athaiya), was born in Kolhapur in the year 1929. She was one of the seven children of self-taught artist and photographer, Annasaheb Rajopadhye. As Bhanu watched her father work alongside different directors and filmmakers, it opened her eyes to the world of art and film. Bhanu was a driven […]

The Many Benefits of Pepper

Pepper is a flowering vine that is grown for its peppercorns. Native to the Malabar Coast in India, Pepper is the most commonly traded spice in the world and is ubiquitous in cuisines all over the world. Apart from its unique spicy flavour, pepper also has multiple other uses. Some of them are:

Nobel Laureates with Indian Origins – Part 3

By Srinidhi Murthy As part of our ongoing series, read about some more Nobel Laureates with Indian origins, whose Indian roots, education or heritage have helped them earn international acclaim.   Har Gobind Khorana   Born in 1922, in Raipur village in Multan, Punjab (present-day Pakistan), Har Gobind Khorana was the youngest among his four siblings. His […]

Nobel Laureates with Indian Origins – Part 2

By Srinidhi Murthy  Indian thinkers, artists and academics have been making the country proud on a global level throughout contemporary times. In the second part of our series on Nobel Laureates with Indian origins, read about some more famous figures whose origins, experience, and education in India contributed to their journey in achieving the Nobel […]

The Many Benefits of Curry Leaves

Curry leaves, commonly known as kadipatta are native to India. These aromatic leaves are a staple in most Indian cuisines and are used extensively to flavour foods, especially in the form of a tadka. However, curry leaves are also used outside the kitchen. Here’s how:

The Invention of Gadbad Ice Cream

By Sinchana Shetty  During the summer season, when the craving for ice cream is higher than the temperature, some go for the classic Gadbad Ice Cream. Popularised in Mangalore, packaged versions of this ice cream can now be found in every store. But do you know how this iconic ice cream came to be? It […]

Wetlands of India

Wetlands are crucial to the survival of our planet. Read on to know how and why they're so important.

Indian Dancers of the 20th Century

Dance is an joyful and integral part of Indian culture. Read on to know about some legendary dancers who have received international recognition due to their talent, creativity and innovation.

Sethu Lakshmi Bayi

Read about Rani Sethu Lakshmi Bayi, the queen from the Travancore dynasty who championed women empowerment and worked for social reforms.

Dollu Kunitha: The Folk Dance of the Kuruba Community

Read on to know about Dollu Kunitha, a folk dance from the Kuruba community of Karnataka, and the Shiva legend connected with it.

Harvest Festivals of India

Read about some of the harvest festivals celebrated across India.

Sohrai: The Thanksgiving Festival of the Santhal Tribe

Read about Sohrai, the five-day-festival of thanksgiving that is celebrated by the Santhal tribe of India.

Pulijudam: The Game of Goats and Tigers

By Komal Narwani Pulijudam, or the game of Goats and Tigers, is an ancient strategic board game. It is popular in the southern states of India. Played by two players or teams, this is an asymmetric game. One player handles three tigers and the other possesses up to fifteen lambs or goats. This game of […]

Dadaria: An Art Form of the Baiga Tribe

A delightful blend of dance, poetry and emotions, Dadaria is an art form practiced by the Baiga tribe belonging to the central states of India such as Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh.

The Story of Himachal Pradesh

By Srinidhi Murthy Known as ‘Dev Bhoomi’ or ‘Land of Gods’, Himachal Pradesh was formed as the eighteenth Indian state on 25th January, 1971. It shares borders with the union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh to the north, Punjab to the west, Haryana to the southwest, and Uttarakhand to the southeast. Read more […]

Nobel Laureates with Indian Origins – Part I

By Srinidhi Murthy Alfred Bernhard Nobel, though renowned for his invention of dynamite, was a man of many hats. He was an inventor with a special inclination towards chemicals and machines. He was also an entrepreneur and philanthropist. With a desire to appreciate and acknowledge those who dedicate their lives to the greatest benefit of […]

Mudiyettu: The Folk Dance from Kerala

Mudiyettu is a ritual theatre and folk dance drama from Kerala. The dance, which depicts the battle between the goddess Kali and the demon Darika, is performed in Bhadrakali temples during the harvest season between February and May. According to the myth, Darika received a boon from Brahma which made him invincible to any man […]

Famous Quotes #22

Here is a quote about the nature of spirituality, from the Indian philosopher Ramkrishna Paramhansa.

Famous Quotes #21

Born in 788 CE, Adi Shankaracharya brought together various streams of thought in Hinduism. He was just 32 years old when he died leaving behind a vast body of work, and reviving the doctrine of Advaita Vedanta. Here is an interesting thought from the scholar.

Famous Quotes #20

This quote by pioneering Bengali filmmaker, Satyajit Ray, reminds us that there is no limit to creativity.

The Story of Rajasthan

By Srinidhi Murthy Formed on 30 March, 1949, Rajasthan is the largest Indian state by area, with Jaipur as its capital. It shares borders with the states of Haryana and Uttar Pradesh to the northeast; Madhya Pradesh to the southeast; Gujarat to the southwest; and Punjab to the north. The name Rajasthan is derived from […]

Hakka and Bukka, the Founders of Vijayanagara  

Hakka and Bukka, the valiant brothers from Warangal, overcame every hurdle thrown on their way, to become the founders of one of the greatest Indian empires – Vijayanagara.  

Chennamma, the Rani of Keladi

After the death of her husband, Chennamma reigned justly for over 25 years. Read on to know how this determined queen saved both Rajaram, the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji, and her kingdom, Keladi, from the wrath of Aurangzeb. 

The Story of Madhya Pradesh

By Srinidhi Murthy Madhya Pradesh is the fifth-largest Indian state by population and the second-largest by area. The region has been a witness to the bravery of freedom fighters like Chandra Shekhar Azad, Tatya Tope, Rani Lakshmi Bai and Tantya Bhil, who fought against the British. Read on to know more about the history of […]

The Life and Legacy of Annamacharya

Read about the life and legacy of Annamacharya, the Telugu composer and poet who is considered Andhra Pada Kavita Pitamaha or Grandfather of Telugu song-writing.

Indian Musicians of the 20th Century

Indian musicians throughout history have reached great heights and gained global accolades with their talent and dedication. Here are the stories of some such musicians of the 20th century, who have made outstanding contributions to the field of music. 

The Legend behind Khichdi

By Dheer Sanghi  Khichdi is one of India’s most widespread and popular dishes, made in a variety of ways over several regions, mostly situated in the North. Made with rice and lentils, khichdi is very easy to make and has high nutritional value. It is also commonly given to babies as their first solid food […]

Hira and Savitribai: Women Who Inspired Chhatrapati Shivaji

Chhatrapati Shivaji's reign was filled with brave men and women who earned the king's respect. Here are the stories of two such women whose courageous deeds impressed him.

The Story of Arunachal Pradesh

By Srinidhi Murthy Arunachal Pradesh is an Indian state that gained its statehood on 20 February, 1987. With Itanagar as its capital, Arunachal Pradesh borders Nagaland and Assam to the south and shares international borders with China in the north, Myanmar in the east, and Bhutan in the west. Read more to know about the […]

The Story of Chhattisgarh

By Srinidhi Murthy Chhattisgarh is one of the Indian states situated in the central part of the nation, with Raipur as its capital. The state is surrounded by Odisha to the east, Telangana to the south, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh to the west, and Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh to the northeast and north. Read more […]

The Many Benefits of Coconut

Botanically classified as a fruit, a nut, and a seed, the coconut is as versatile as its classification. Its application varies in forms and fields. From cosmetics to medicines to food to decor, the humble coconut finds application in almost every industry, with every part from the water to the meat to the shell to […]

Indian Painters of the 20th Century

India has produced numerous artists and painters who have made their name on a global scale. Here are seven such famous Indian painters of the 20th century that you should know.

Famous Quotes #19

This quote by the great philosopher, economist and strategist of the Mauryan Empire, Chanakya, reminds us of the value and importance of truth.

Famous Quotes #18

This quote by prize-winning, Indian-American writer, Jhumpa Lahiri, depicts the magical power of books.

The Many Benefits of Lemongrass

Lemongrass is a herb that is native to South India and Sri Lanka. It is a common ingredient in Asian cooking. However, it is a versatile plant with many uses, take a look at a few of them below.

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The Story of West Bengal

West Bengal is the fourth-most populous state in India and the fourteenth-largest state by area. The state borders Nepal and Bhutan in the north and Bangladesh in the east. With Kolkata as its capital, West Bengal also borders the Indian states of Jharkhand, Sikkim, Assam, Bihar and Odisha. Read more to know some interesting facts […]

Gobi’s Globetrotting Gastro-tale!

Cauliflower was brought to India from England in 1822, and became an instant hit with the local population, who incorporated the vegetable into their traditional recipes.

The Many Benefits of Turmeric

A staple spice in Indian cuisine, no culinary preparation is complete without a dash of turmeric. This magic ingredient also has myriad other uses, here are some important ones.  

5 Women Mountaineers from India

Read about the inspirational women from India who conquered their obstacles to scale new heights and make the country proud.

The Story of Assam

Known for its tea and silk, Assam is located in the northeastern part of India. Read on to know the story of this hilly state.

Guru Arjan Dev – The 5th Sikh Guru

Read all about Guru Arjan, the fifth Sikh Guru, whose martyrdom strengthened the conviction of his community.

5 Lesser-Known Tribal Dances of India

India is a land blessed with great diversity across all art forms and dance is no exception. Read about some lesser-known tribal dance forms of India. 

The Story of Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh has witnessed the reigns of many dynasties and many freedom fighters from the region sacrificed their lives for our nation. Read the state story now!

Swarnakumari Devi

Novelist. Freedom fighter. Women's rights activist. Do you know the many facets of one of India's first female authors, Swarnakumari Devi?

The Fascinating Story of Tea in India

Read the interesting story of how commercial tea plantations started in India.

The Story of Karnataka

The history of the state of Karnataka has given it so many monuments, traditions and stories to tell. Read them all now!

Indian Summer Food Stories

In India, summer brings with it delicious fruits and traditional refreshing food and drinks. Read interesting facts and legends behind some popular Indian summer foods.

Famous Quotes #17

This quote by Rabindranath Tagore shows that creation is an act of love.

The Story of Easter

Read the story behind why Easter is celebrated and what it signifies.

The Story of Ramzan

Ramzan is a month of prayer, fasting and service that is observed by Muslims across the world. Read on to find out the significance of Ramzan and the values that it represents.

Famous Quotes #16

Here is a quote by the Chinese philosopher Zhuangzi on the nature of wisdom.

Interesting Facts About Indian Mathematician Aryabhata

Read some interesting facts about Aryabhata, the great Indian mathematician who discovered the value of Pi.

Kalbelia Dance

Read about the Kalbelia dance, performed by the snake charming tribe of Rajasthan.

The Many Benefits of Ginger

Ginger not only adds taste to our food, but has a lot of medicinal properties too!

The Story of Tamil Nadu

The state of Tamil Nadu has witnessed the rise and fall of proud empires and produced brave heroes who gave their all for the freedom of the nation.

The Significance of Gopalkala

Read all about Gopalkala, the dish in the dahi handi, and how it imbibes the values Lord Krishna exemplifies.

Architects of the Indian Constitution

On Republic Day, read all about the great minds behind the Indian constitution.

The Many Benefits of Lemon

The tangy fruit, lemon, finds its application in many culinary and non-culinary uses.

Why is Tilgul given on Makar Sankranti?

Read all about the delicious sweet that makes Makar Sankranti all the more fun!

Guru Gobind Singh’s Khalsa

Did you know how Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru, established the Khalsa?

Krishnadeva Raya: The Brave King

Read about the life of Krishnadeva Raya, the 16th-century king of the Vijayanagara empire who took the kingdom to its zenith of glory.

Many Indian New Years

Different regions and religions of India celebrate different New Year's Days. Read all about the most popular new year celebrations all across the country.

5 Indian Christmas Delicacies

Read all about 5 interesting Indian delicacies that are prepared during Christmas time.

Popular Board Games of Ancient India

Read about the ancient games that were the predecessors of board games like Ludo, Snakes and Ladders and Chess.

Famous Quotes #15

Here is a quote from Dr B.R. Ambedkar, the Father of the Indian Constitution.

The Submarines of the Indian Navy

Read all about the history of submarines in the Indian Navy, from the past to the present.

The Many Benefits of Tulsi

Well known for its medicinal properties, Tulsi is also a holy plant for Hindus and is worshipped every morning in some households.

The Ancient Game of Pallanguli

Read about Pallanguli, the ancient Indian game that is said to improve hand eye coordination and mental maths skills.

Sangodd Festival of Goa

The day marks the feasts of Saint Peter and Saint Paul.

Dr V. Shanta (1927-2021)

Dr Shanta was a renowned oncologist who actively sought to make cancer treatment affordable to patients in India. 

Mukta Salve

Her essay titled 'About the grief of Mangs and Mahars' is considered to be the first work of literature by a Dalit woman.

Who was Krantidoot Azimullah Khan?

Although Khan sowed the seeds of rebellion, he became a marginal figure due to a lack of personal wealth, title, supporters, or skill in combat. Hence why his story isn’t told often.

Dhungri Mela

The Dhungri Mela festival in Manali is held in honour of Hidimba.

Channapatna Toys of Karnataka

The production of Channapatna toys is a zero-waste industry.   

Different Celebrations of Vijayadashami

People across India celebrate Vijayadashami or Dussehra as a day of triumph and victory in many different ways.

The Many Benefits Of Tamarind

The sweet and tangy fruit, in our country, has many uses apart from tickling our taste buds.

Famous Quotes #13

He may have made many a dent with his fists, but what has left a greater impact are his words.

Nag Panchami

In Hindu mythology, snakes often symbolise virility and it is this aspect of the snake that the wrestlers worship on this day.

Famous Quotes #12

Here is a beautiful quote from Shashi Deshpande's 'In the Country of Deceit' that makes one pause and think.

Uda Devi: A True Veerangini

Uda Devi bravely risked her life to ensure that the British regiment could not break through the women’s battalion and reach reinforcements.

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Must-See Libraries in India

Did you know? Located in Kolkata, the National Library of India is the nation's largest library in terms of volume.

A History of Indians at the Olympics

India first participated during the Paris 1900 Olympics.

Ochira Kalli

Named after the town it takes place in, Ochira Kalli is a local festival celebrated at the Ochira Parabrahma Temple in Kerala.

Quiz time with Uncle Pai

The world has changed but it's the same feeling of breathlessness during our ACK Family Online Quiz, read how did it all start.

APJ Abdul Kalam (1931 – 2015)

Did you know? Abdual Kalam almost met with death twice.

Toys of Indus Valley Civilization

The people of the Indus Valley civilization had mastered the art of making toys out of clay.

The Story of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh has given the country seven prime ministers and also occupies the largest number of seats in the Lok Sabha.

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Stories of Sweets of India

Did you know? Lord Jagannath offered her Rasgulla to pacify Lakshmi.

The Faith and Beliefs of Christianity

The faith of Christianity is based on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. The followers are known as Christians.

Sunderlal Bahuguna (1927 – 2021)

It is a tragic irony that the man who fought to provide a breath of fresh air to people lost his life struggling for oxygen amidst the pandemic.

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The Kalinga War

The Kalinga War was a turning point in the life of Emperor Ashoka of the Mauryan Dynasty.

Medicine In Ancient India and Ayurveda

According to Ayurveda, an individual can enjoy good health only if the body, mind and soul are all properly nurtured.

The First War of Indian Independence

The British historians may call it ‘The Revolt of 1857’, but the uprising of 1857 will always be the First War of Independence in India.

The Story Of Telangana

The youngest state of the country has a glorious legacy of art, culture, literature and economics. 

Pandit Ravi Shankar (1920 – 2012)

George Harrison, the lead guitarist of The Beatles, described Pandit Ravi Shankar as the godfather of world music.

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Tansen – The Muscial Gem

Tansen’s contribution to Hindustani classical music remains matchless even to date.

The Ancient Game Of Ganjifa Cards

This game was brought to India by the Mughals in the sixteenth century.

Lesser-Known Facts About Kalpana Chawla

On December 5, 1997, Kalpana Chawla returned from space and the world celebrated the successful flight of the first Indian woman in space.

Rana Sanga (1482-1528)

Rana Sanga was the king of Mewar who is accredited for reuniting several Rajput clans and creating a stalwart Rajput association.

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5 Women Environmentalists of India

Here are five women activists who made it their life’s mission to speak for the voiceless and raise awareness about their cause.

Cheraw: The Traditional Bamboo Dance of Mizoram

Did you know? In 2010, this folk dance figured in the Guinness Book of World Records.

Hari Govind Govil (1899-1956)

Hari Govind Govil was the inventor of groundbreaking innovation, the typeface for the Devanagari script,

Artists of Change – Dulari Devi and Ramchandra Manjhi

Dulari Devi and Ramchandra Manjhi, two folk artists from the state of Bihar, have battled all odds to pursue their passion.

 4 Legendary Indian Women In Science

Read about the legendary Indian women who have made notable contributions in sciences, but remain largely unknown to the world.

The Story Of Uttarakhand

It is believed that the sage Veda Vyasa wrote the epic Mahabharata in this mountainous state.

Indian Navy Facts 

A glorious maritime heritage, spanning five millennia, of the only nation in the world to have an ocean named after her.

Interesting facts about Jana Gana Mana

Did you know that the complete national anthem is just one of the five stanzas of the original hymn?

The Pashupati Seal of Mohenjo-Daro

What does the Pashupati seal depict? A deity, an asura or a yogi?

The Armed Forces In Peacetime

The Armed Forces constantly train themselves so that they are better prepared than the adversary for any eventuality.

Swami Vivekananda (1863 – 1902)

He revived the Indian spirit that lay shackled by Western domination.

Famous Quotes #11

This quote by a renowned Bengali saint, Anandamayi Ma, describes the true traits of a saint. 

Celebrating Christmas

Here's a peek at the grand Christmas celebrations in India!

Shah Jahan’s Dining Habits

The Mughal emperor was a patron of fine arts as well as culinary arts!

Astad Deboo (1947 – 2020)

The dancer extraordinaire could effortlessly fuse modern dance forms with classical styles.

The Many Benefits of Sandalwood

One of the world's most expensive kinds of timber, it has many applications across India.

Sufi Saints of India

Here are some of the most prominent Sufi mystics who settled in the subcontinent.

The Gangaur Festival

Celebrated in honour of Parvati, the main worshippers are the womenfolk of Rajasthan.

Govind Swarup (1929 – 2020)

His innovative spirit made India one of the leading countries in astronomical research.

Soumitra Chatterjee (1935 – 2020)

The proficient thespian had acted in over 300 films in his 65 year long career.

The Hornbill Festival

2020 marks the 20th anniversary of this unique celebration in Nagaland!

Celebrating Diwali

Here's a peek at how Diwali celebrations unfold on the big day!

Dancing the Dhemsa 

The Gadaba tribe celebrate joys and cope with sorrows through this folk dance.

The Story of Tripura

There is a legend that traces the state's origins all the way back to the Mahabharata.

Famous Quotes #10

Rabindranath Tagore emphasises what an ideal education should be about.

Rani Abbakka Chowta (1525-1570) 

At the time, the colonising Portuguese considered her their biggest threat!

M.S. Subbulakshmi (1916-2004)

The legendary Carnatic singer paved the way for millions of women to follow their passion.

The Festival of Dolls

Bommai Golu is a festival celebrated in the South during the nine days of Navratri.

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The Story Of Sikkim

The state’s name is derived from a Nepali expression 'sukhim', meaning happiness.

Famous Quotes #9

This quote from Bodhidharma reminds us of the power of the human mind.

The Many Benefits Of Honey

Honey has a host of medicinal benefits, not to mention it tastes great!

The Downfall Of The Nandas

The Nandas were one of India's most prosperous dynasties, done in by arrogance and greed.

The Marwar Festival

This colourful festival commemorates the legacies of Rajasthan’s greatest rulers and heroes.

Kamini Roy (1864-1933)

The eminent Bengali poet and social reformer fought for women's rights in British India.

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15 Things You Should Know About The IAF

The Indian Air Force is the fourth-largest in the world and has a storied legacy.

The Village Without Doors 

Read how the villagers of Shani Shingnapur came under Shani's divine protection.

Marshal Arjan Singh (1919-2017)

Trace the illustrious airman's career through five major chapters in Indian history.

The Khadi Movement

For Mahatma Gandhi, khadi was more than just cloth. It was a unifying force.

Vikram Sarabhai (1919-1971)

Known as the father of the Indian space program, Dr. Sarabhai's legacy has inspired millions, including former president Dr. Kalam.

India’s First Int’l T20 victory!

Relive India's historic win at the ICC T20 World Cup of 2007.

Six Things You Never Knew About Mangalyaan

Read how India become the first nation to put a satellite in Mars’ orbit on its very first try!

Anant Pai (1929 – 2011)

Read the story of how our beloved Uncle Pai created Amar Chitra Katha and Tinkle!

Famous Quotes #8

In the spirit of Uncle Pai Day, here are six quotes from the legend that will make you think.

M. Visvesvaraya (1860 – 1962)

Known as 'The Father of Engineering', he paved the way for a modernised India

Famous Quotes #7

Today's quote is by Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam about the power of the youth!

India’s White Revolution

The Father of India's White Revolution was the brains behind the iconic Amul brand.

Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (1888-1975)

We celebrate Teacher's Day in honour of India's first vice-president and second president.

Maharani Vani Vilasa (1866-1934)

This queen-regent of Mysore was responsible for Asia's first hydro-electric project!

Onam – God’s Own Celebration

Onam is a harvest festival celebrated in the state of Kerala and by Malayalees around the world.

The Many Benefits Of Rice

The staple food has many more uses apart from just the kitchen.

Dhyan Chand (1905-1979)

The three time Olympic gold medalist redefined the world of Indian hockey forever.

Famous Quotes #6

This quote by Mother Teresa aptly highlights how silence can be healing.

The Legend Behind Payasam

Did you know this legendary dessert has a divine connect to an epic chess game?

The Prisons of the Freedom Struggle

India's freedom fighters spent many a night imprisoned. Here are a few jails they spent time in.

8 Things To Know About Quit India

While the movement seemed a failure initially, it became the catalyst in securing India's freedom.

Muthulakshmi Reddy (1886-1968)

She was a woman of many firsts, paving the way for thousands after her.

A Brief History Of The Indian Flag

Here's a timeline tracing the evolution of our iconic tricolour!

The Many Benefits Of Bananas

The humble banana plant offers us so much more than just the fruit!

Rakshabandhan Through The Ages

Raksha Bandhan gave some very interesting twists to historic events!

Famous Quotes #5

The Avvaiyar had some timeless advice about sacrifice over submission.

The Man Who Made India Fly

Did you know J.R.D. Tata was the person behind the creation of Air India?

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The World’s Highest Battlefield

Dras valley also served as the final battlefield in the Kargil war with Pakistan, in the summer of 1999.

India’s First ‘Ace’ Fighter Pilot

Lieutenant Indra Lal ‘Laddie’ Roy was the only Indian fighter pilot to be awarded the title of ‘ace’.

Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy (1882-1962)

Every year, July 1st is celebrated as National Doctor's Day in honour of this legendary physician.

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The Story of the Pani Puri

Historically speaking, pani puris are considered to be the evolutionary byproduct of the phulki.

A History Of ACK In 10 Covers

Here is a collection of iconic titles that traces Amar Chitra Katha's incredible journey over five decades.

Balbir Singh Dosanjh (1924-2020)

Balbir was the first-ever recipient of the Padma Shri award in the sports category.

The Story of The Pav

The fluffy pav travelled all the way from Portugal to Goa before landing in Bombay.

The Many Benefits of Neem

Boasting a multitude of uses, the neem plant is truly a panacea.

Famous Quotes #4

This quote comes from the Sufi tradition at the expense of the humble donkey.

Meghalaya’s Living Bridges

This theme for International Day for Biological DIversity 2020 is "Our solutions are in nature". Here's the perfect example.

Shankar And His Dolls

Legendary cartoonist Shankaran Pillai is also the founder of Delhi's famous Doll Museum.

Famous Quotes #3

A quote by our very own Sachin Tendulkar on how to deal with criticism.

India Goes Nuclear

On May 11, 1998, India successfully conducted Operation Shakti at Pokhran, becoming nuclear-ready in the eyes of the world.

Srinagar’s Tulip Gardens

Here's an interesting fact about Srinagar's Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden.

The History of Money in India

A standardized currency system in the Indian sub-continent can be traced back to the Harappan civilization.

The Story of Sambaar

The tangy, South Indian vegetable-laden broth actually owes its origins to the Maratha empire, and was actually made by mistake!

The Chapati Movement

Do you know the story of how the humble chapati became a sign of resistance against the British army?

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Six Indian Dishes Not From India

Believe it or not, these quintessentially Indian dishes are not Indian at all, tracing their origins to beyond our country's borders.

What is a Ravanhatha?

Ancestor to the modern day violin, the ancient stringed instrument was used to please the gods themselves.

Famous Quotes #2

A quote by Nagarjuna, former head of the ancient Nalanda University, on the merit of worldly pleasures.

The First Passenger Train

April 16th marks the anniversary of India's first passenger train journey. Read more about it here.

World Art Day 2020

On the occasion of World Art Day, take a look at some of our iconic art over the years.

The Jallianwala Bagh Tragedy

#OnThisDay in 1919, India became witness to the British atrocity that was the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy.

V. K. Murthy (1923 – 2014)

April 7th marks the death anniversary of the famed cinematographer who shot India's first cinemascope film 'Kaagaz ke Phool'.

The Three Jewels of Jainism

On the occassion of Mahavir Jayanti, let us remember the three jewels of enlightenment according to the holy sage.

Famous Quotes #1

Rabindranath Tagore tells us to always stay positive and find a way in the darkest of times.

Anna Mani (1918-2001)

Read more about this path-breaking scientist on the occasion of World Meteorology Day!

The Festival of Nowruz

So what is Nowruz all about? Here's a quick introduction to the Parsi festival.

Ustad Vilayat Khan (1928-2004)

The maestro was instrumental in developing entirely new schools of music, and is considered one of the greatest sitar players of all time.

World Speech Day 2020

We're celebrating World Speech Day this year by remembering Rabindranath Tagore's last speech in 1941.

National Science Day 2020

Keeping with this year's theme "Women in Science", we are celebrating the first female scientists in India.

Anandibai Joshi (1865-1887)

She was the first Indian woman to obtain a medical degree, but was never able to actually practise.

Happy Mahashivratri!

Here are some of the many names of Shiva. How many names do you know?

Shivaji and Jijabai

One of the most influential people in Chattrapati's Shivaji's life was his mother, the peerless Jijabai.

The Lui-Ngai-Ni Festival

Celebrated in Manipur, this seed-sowing festival is meant to ensure a rich harvest every year.

Sarojini Naidu

Poet. Activist. Freedom Fighter. How well do you know the Nightingale of India?

Kavi Pradeep (1915-1998)

The man who penned the words for hundreds of memorable melodies, Kavi Pradeep was a poetic genius.

Medaram Jatra

Celebrated in Telengana, this tribal festival is in honour of a mother and daughter's fight against injustice.

The Vembanad Lake

Did you know Kerala's Vembanad wetlands is the country's second largest wetland ecosystem?

Kalpana Chawla (1962-2003)

17 years ago, on this day, astronaut Kalpana Chawla lost her life when Space Shuttle Columbia exploded in the earth's orbit.

The Me-Dam Me-Phi Festival

Celebrated by the Ahom community in Assam, this festival is a special day that honours their dearly departed.

Vidya Bal (1937-2020)

The celebrated author and social activist dedicated her entire lifetime to fighting for women's rights.

Our Fundamental Duties

Can you recall all the fundamental duties as listed in our Constitution?

The Indian Railways Elephant

Do you know there is an elephant who works for the Indian Railways? He's the cutest thing ever!

Thiruvallavur Day

The Tamil poet Thiruvallavur is considered one of the greatest writers of all time, not just in India but across the world.

National Youth Day

Did you know Swami Vivekananda's birthday is celebrated as National Youth Day in India?

World Heritage Sites in India

Can you name all the World Heritage sites in India as declared by UNESCO? Here's the complete list.

The Guru’s Wisdom

On the occasion of Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti, take a moment to reflect of one of the guru's many teachings.