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Bharatiya Sanskruti · A living heritage
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From the journal
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Sanatan Festivals & Rituals · 2 min read
Ayudha Puja: Respecting the Tools and the People Behind Our Work
Ayudha Puja brings the objects of work into a space of gratitude. Tools, instruments and other implements are cleaned and honoured in several Navratri traditions. The observance offers a…
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Puranic Legends & Epics · 2 min read
Why Rama Went into Exile: Kaikeyi’s Boons and a Difficult Promise
Rama's departure for the forest changes the direction of the Ayodhya story. A planned coronation becomes a separation, and a public expectation gives way to a promise made within…
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Puranic Legends & Epics · 2 min read
Sita’s Decision to Join Rama: Reading Her Voice in the Exile Story
Sita's place in the exile story is sometimes reduced to the sentence that she followed Rama into the forest. In the Ayodhyakanda, however, her departure is preceded by conversation.…
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Puranic Legends & Epics · 2 min read
Lakshmana in the Forest: Companionship, Vigilance and Responsibility
Lakshmana accompanies Rama and Sita into exile, but his role is more than that of a figure standing beside them in a painting. His decision raises questions about loyalty,…
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Puranic Legends & Epics · 2 min read
Bharata and Rama’s Sandals: Authority Held in Trust
Bharata's meeting with Rama is one of the most searching episodes in the exile narrative. He comes hoping Rama will return, yet the brothers do not resolve the crisis…
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Puranic Legends & Epics · 2 min read
Chitrakuta in the Ramayana: A Forest Home and a Family Meeting
Chitrakuta is an important setting in the early forest narrative of the Ramayana. It is associated with the establishment of a forest dwelling and with Bharata's meeting with Rama.…
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