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Indian culture and traditions are something which has now become renowned all across the world.  We all refer to customs and traditions of India as something very diverse and unique. But seldom do we give a thought to why things are done in certain specific ways. Indian culture is full of several unique customs and traditions, which outsiders might find intriguing. Most of these originate from the Ancient Indian scriptures and texts, which have dictated the way of life in India for thousands of years. 1. Greeting - The Namaste The Namaste is one of the most popular Indian customs and isn't just restricted to the Indian territory anymore. You have Barack Obama, who has been seen doing it on various occasions, or you had Ban Ki-Moon, the UN Secretary-General, greeting everyone with a namaste at the Times Square in New York on the first International Yoga Day. But, what's the significance? The Namaste, or namaskar, or 'namaskar' is one of the five forms of traditional gree...

Our country has a rich tradition of folk art – which originates from tribes in different parts of India.  In the North Sahyadri mountain range of Maharashtra lives the Adivasi tribe by the name of ‘Warli ’ Known to be amongst the largest tribes in India in terms of numbers and living close to the bustling metropolis of Mumbai – the Warli shun modern culture and live on their own terms. Their life is all about farming. They greatly respect nature and wildlife for the resources that they provide for sustenance. The characteristic style of Warli painting as we see it – was not recognised until the 1970’s, even though it is believed to date back to the 10th century A.D. This ritual art took a contemporary turn when Jivya Soma Mashe and his son Balu Mashe started to paint in this style. They painted from an artistic perspective and not a religious or cultural one. Jivya has since then come to be known as the father of modern Warli painting. Dark Green Kantha Stole,Terracotta Pendant Set...

  What is Yoga?   If you thought that yoga was all about bending and twisting your body in odd shapes, it's time to rethink. Yoga is much more. In very simple words, giving care to your body, mind and breath is yoga. Derived from the Sankrit word ‘yuj’ which means ‘to unite or integrate’, yoga is a 5,000-year-old Indian body of knowledge. Yoga is all about harmonizing the body with the mind and breath through the means of various breathing exercises, yoga poses (asanas) and meditation. Some yoga poses: Corpse Pose: Like life, yoga classes typically end with this pose. It allows for a moment of relaxation, but some people find it difficult to stay still in this pose. However, the more you try this pose, the easier it is to sink into a relaxing, meditative state. Do it: Always! Skip it: If you don’t want to have a moment’s peace. Modify: Place a blanket under your head, if that feels more comfortable. You can also roll up a blanket and place that under your knees, if your lowe...