Category Archives: Culture and History

Thinking through Act

“Acting is behaving truthfully under imaginary circumstances.”

Acting is basically an art of imitation or reflection or representation. It is the quality of utilizing your own spirit body and mind in being someone else. Actors on the stage do not show themselves up there, but they show the character they get into to people.”  Acting is equivalent to forgetting the original self.

Acting is not about being someone different. It’s finding the similarity in what is apparently different, then finding myself in there.

Benefits of acting

There are many benefits of acting :

  1.  It is a self-cleansing art.
  2. It helps us to forget ourselves, our worries, or goals, our life pressure, etc for the same time.
  3. It helps us to “be present”. Through acting, we enjoy “the moment”. We are at “the moment”.
  4. It helps us to understand the small little worlds as well as the big worlds of various people around us.
  5. Every act gives us a different perception that adds to build our character.

Methods of acting

  1. Stanislavski/Strasberg/Method: It uses affective memory considering our past. We need to relate to our past events. It draws situations from real life and there is an “emotional recall” as we get in touch with your emotional self.
  2. Meisner Method: It is the method based on the usage of imagination only. We need to enforce us to ask questions to ourselves. We ask the questions “what if”. We need time to contemplate under what situation will I be like this and considers the hypothetical future.

Voice Acting

Our emotions come out of our voices. Talking to a person over a voice call, we can immediately interpret if he is happy, sad, angry, guilty, lonely, or anything else. The Voice of a person gives a strong sense of the feelings of a person. Therefore, in addition to bringing the character by our body movements, we also need to bring out the character through our voice. Indeed, the voice acting is so powerful that it has opened up a separate domain for artists. Voice acting by podcasts are becoming popular day by day. It is easy to access and very interesting helping listeners to create a world of their own by listening to the voice artists. In addition, in these difficult times of pandemic, where shooting is difficult due to the rules of social distancing, podcasts are the way for artists.

Irrespective of the form of acting, the main trick is to make your character your best friend. We need to study up on character traits; read testimonials, interviews, or watch videos. Then, we need to try to bring the traits through voice. Traits, in general, depending on age, geographical location, any distinct characteristic, or disability. There is a need to develops a culture of responsive acting. It is also important to tackles self-consciousness. It is an effective way of creating the world around us. An actor is an energy bank, always excited about his character and his story.

“Acting is a sport. On stage you must be ready to move like a tennis player on his toes. Your concentration must be keen, your reflexes sharp; your body and mind are in top gear, the chase is on. Acting is energy. In the theatre people pay to see energy.”

Advertisement

International Friendship Day

“True friends are never apart, may be in distance but never in heart.”

International Friendship Day is a day in several countries for celebrating friendship. It is celebrated on July 30 every year across the globe. The day is celebrated to mark the importance of friendships and friends in promoting peace in various cultures across the globe, to cherish friendship and value the people in our lives.

The idea of World Friendship Day was first proposed by Dr. Ramon Artemio Bracho in 1958 in Paraguay. He coined this term when he was having dinner with his friends in Puerto Pinasco. The dinner hosted by Dr. Ramon Artemio Bracho gave rise to the World Friendship Crusade, which is a foundation that encourages friendships across the world irrespective of race, color, religion, and ethnicity.  In 2011, the Friendship Crusade, on April 27, 2011, the General Assembly of the United Nations declared July 30 as official International Friendship Day. It was initially promoted by the greeting cards’ industry, evidence from social networking sites shows a revival of interest in the holiday that may have grown with the spread of the Internet, particularly in India, Bangladesh, and Malaysia. Mobile phones, digital communication, and social media have contributed to popularize the custom. It is also celebrated by exchanging gifts and planning outings with friends. In India, people celebrate this day by giving colorful friendship bands and flowers to each other.

Those who promote the holiday in South Asia attribute the tradition of dedicating a day in the honor of friends to have originated in the United States in 1935 but it actually dates back to 1919. The exchange of Friendship Day gifts like flowers, cards, and wrist bands is a popular tradition on this occasion.

Friendship Day celebrations occur on different dates in different countries. The first World Friendship Day was proposed for 30 July in 1958, by the World Friendship Crusade. On 27 April 2011, the General Assembly of the United Nations declared 30 July as official International Friendship Day with the idea that friendship between peoples, countries, cultures, and individuals can inspire peace efforts and build bridges between communities. However, several countries celebrate friendship day in before and after the UN-designated date. In India, Friendship Day is celebrated on the first Sunday of every August. In Nepal, Friendship day is celebrated on 30 July each year. In Oberlin, Ohio, Friendship Day is celebrated on 9 April each year.

“Friendship is the base of every relation. It is the golden thread that ties the heart of all the world.” 

According to the United Nations’ website, “Through friendship — by accumulating bonds of camaraderie and developing strong ties of trust — we can contribute to the fundamental shifts that are urgently needed to achieve lasting stability, weave a safety net that will protect us all, and generate passion for a better world where all are united for the greater good.” The UN resolution places emphasis on involving young people, as future leaders, in community activities that include different cultures and promote international understanding and respect for diversity. To mark the International Day of Friendship the UN encourages governments, international organizations, and civil society groups to hold events, activities, and initiatives that contribute to the efforts of the international community towards promoting a dialogue among civilizations, solidarity, mutual understanding, and reconciliation.

“Freindship is the only cement that will ever hold the world together.”

International Tiger Day

“Let us keep the tigers in jungles & not in history, save tigers”

Global Tiger Day, often called International Tiger Day, is an annual celebration to raise awareness for tiger conservation, held annually on 29 July. It was created in 2010 at the Saint Petersburg Tiger Summit. In the summit, governments of tiger-populated countries vowed to double the tiger population by 2022. Almost a decade has passed since then. The goal of the day is to promote a global system for protecting the natural habitats of tigers and to raise public awareness and support for tiger conservation issues. According to the WWF experts Darren Grover,  the world had lost around 97 percent of wild tigers in the last 100 years. Currently, only 3,000 tigers are left alive compared to around 100,000 Tiger a century ago.  Many international organizations, including the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), and Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI), are also involved in the conservation of the wild tigers.

“The roar is rare.”

The awe-inspiring tiger is one of the most iconic animals on Earth. The tiger population across the world dropped sharply since the beginning of the 20th century but now for the first time in conservation history, their numbers are on the rise. Union Minister for Environment, Forests and Climate Change, Prakash Javadekar, on Tuesday, released the detailed Status of Tigers Report 2018. According to the report, released on the eve of Global Tiger Day, tigers were observed to be increasing at a rate of 6 percent per annum in India from 2006 to 2018. In good news for India, Environment Minister, Prakash Javadekar on Tuesday said, the country “has 70 percent of world’s tiger population”, after releasing a report on tiger census ahead of International Tiger Day on July 29. 

There are a number of different issues that tigers all around the world face. There are a number of threats that are driving tigers close to extinction, and we can do our bit to make sure that we do not lose these incredible creatures. Some of the threats that tigers face include poaching, conflict with humans, and habitat loss.  Poaching and the illegal trade industry is a very worrying one. This is the biggest threat that wild tigers face. Demand for tiger bone, skin, and other body parts is leading to poaching and trafficking. This is having a monumental impact on the sub-populations of tigers, resulting in localized extinctions. We often see tiger skins being used in home decor. Moreover, bones are used for medicines and tonics. This has seen illegal criminal syndicates get involved in the tiger trade in order to make huge profits. It really is a worrying industry. In fact, it is thought to be worth 10 billion dollars per annum in the United States alone. This is why we need to support charities and work hard to put an end to poaching and the illegal trade of tiger parts. While this represents the biggest threats to tigers, there are a number of other threats as well. This includes habitat loss. Throughout the world, tiger habitats have reduced because of access routes, human settlements, timber logging, plantations, and agriculture. In fact, only around seven percent of the historical range of a tiger is still intact today. That is an incredibly small and worrying amount. This can increase the number of conflicts between tigers, as they roman about and try to locate new habitats. Not only this, but genetic diversity can reduce because it can cause there to be inbreeding in small populations.

Since the tiger is an “umbrella species”, its conservation enables the conservation of their entire ecosystems. Several studies have shown that Tiger reserves harbor new species, which are found practically every year. Tiger reserves have also improved the water regimes in regions where they are located, improving groundwater tables and other water bodies, thus contributing favorably to the climate. This year marks the tenth International Tiger Day. On International Tiger Day, several countries discuss issues related to tiger conservation and also try to amass funds for wildlife preservation. Moreover, many celebrities also pitch in for International Tiger Day and try to spread awareness about the conditions of tigers using their massive social media presence. India is especially important for International Tiger Day 2020 as the country currently has 75% of all tigers on the planet. A lot of people are not aware of these threats, and so spreading the knowledge can help to make sure that we all do our bit to ensure that the tiger’s future is a fruitful one. There will be a lot of videos, infographics, and interesting pieces of content going around that you can share with others.

“Tiger is a symbol of Beauty, Bravery, Strength and Nationality. So Save the Tiger, Save the Nation’s Pride.”

The power of “Now”

Life, a very adventurous journey has three divisions, present past and future. We all have only one life and we want to live it to the fullest and make the best out of it. In our life, we have to deal with the present, past, and future. Thus, we are often confused about which moment of life is more important and should be given maximum attention. Let us try to figure this out.

Looking into the past and future

We all tend to be far-sighted, thinking of future plans, future goals, etc. We work for our future, we save for our future, and we plan for our good future. We work hard to achieve our future goals. But, we are uncertain of our future. Yup, are you sure your future will come? No one knows. Thinking of the future and making plans according to is also important, but getting lost in these plans is not the correct way. Working in a way that misses out today and seems promising of a good future is where we are getting ditched because we will be investing in something that does not exist.

Past, on the other hand, is what we already created. It is impossible to change now what we have done 10 years ago. We can only learn from the past to improve our present and future. So, there is no point in living in the past. If we live in the past, we are stuck.

Live in present. But, why? 

“If you want to conquer the anxiety of life, live in the moment, live in the breath.”

Think deeply and question again. Are there three divisions of time or is it only one? Are there past, present, and future or is it only present? Confused? It will be clear. 

Our present makes our past and our future. How? What we have today will become our past tomorrow. So, by living in the present, we create our past. By making our present beautiful, we create memories and by doing mistakes now, we create lessons to learn. Basically, it is possible to add what we want to add in our past. It is possible to create our past by designing our present in the way we want. We can also make our future in a similar manner. Whatever we do today will be reflected in our future. Whatever we want in the future, wherever we dream to stand in the future, it begins from the present. We have to work today only to reach where we want to be in the future. Our performance today decides what we will get in the future. If we want to get the best out of our life, we need to live in the present and give the best today, there is no other option.

“The present moment is the only moment available to us, and it is the door to all moments.”

“Now” is the happiness

The best and most important moment is now. It is not possible to grab it or hold it. What is possible is to enjoy it, make it the best by giving it the best and staying in that moment. Neither our past is bad, nor our future may be. It’s just certain instances of past that are bad or according to us and an imagined situation of future that may be overwhelming or fearful. But, the most precious moment is now. We need to enjoy it to the fullest. If we merge with the present we are truly living otherwise, we are dead. Living the present is happiness, it is the true pleasure. Make your each second beautiful. Embrace it.

The practice of gratitude

“Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life is the foundation for all abundance.” – Ekhart Tolle

Gratitude or gratefulness, is a feeling of appreciation felt by the recipient of kindness, gifts, help, favors, or other types of generosity, towards the giver of such gifts. Gratitude turns what we already have into enough. It gives us a feeling of satisfaction and eternal peace. Gratitude is the best medicine, it heals one’s mind, body, and spirit, and it attracts more things to be grateful for.

Why do we need to practice gratitude?

“The struggle ends where gratitude begins”.

We all are surrounded by beautiful nature, we have our favorite people around us and we have enough food, clothes, and facilities. But, it is quite common that we take these things for granted. When we take things for granted, we are not satisfied with what we have and we strive to get something else, if we get it, then again we want something else, and we are never satisfied. Consider the present situation where we all are sitting at our respective houses. Earlier we could freely roam around, walk-in streets and parks, visit beautiful places, enjoy the fresh air and beauty of nature. But, we used to take all these for granted. We were really not grateful for the places around us, the beauty around us. But, now we realize its importance. The reality is that we always have enough of the resources around us for our survival. But, sadness drives in when we don’t appreciate what we have and take that for granted. Each one of us is living a life that is actually a dream life for a second person. So, just embrace it.

Imagine your life without the people around you, who are always there with you and support you. If you remove them from your life and think deeply, you will realize that they have a big role to play in your life which you never really thought about. The people around you are precious, value them, and be grateful to them that they are with you. Imagine a day without food, clothes, shoes, or air. If you do this exercise, you realize that you have enough of these things. Your desire to eat in a restaurant and to wear stylish clothes was really not that important. You get your food every day, you have clothes and shoes to wear. So, be thankful for what you have. Each and everything we get in our life, each and everything happening to us is very valuable to build us, to build our personality. Everything happens for a good reason. Being thankful for everything we get and for every event we come across gives us a satisfactory feeling, it eliminates negativity and makes our life more pleasurable. Saying thank you to another person pleases them and us too.

What do we get out of it?

A grateful heart is a magnet for miracles. The day you start practicing gratitude, it never ends. The more you express your gratitude for what you have, the more things you will have to express gratitude for. It gives you immense peace, happiness, and satisfaction. It rewires our brain and reduces stress. It boosts our immunity, improves relationships, and makes each day more beautiful. It makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow. Gratitude is the most wonderful feeling. Once you start practicing it, there is no way back.

“Thank You ” is the best prayer anyone could say.

Science and God

“Science” and “God”, the two words which are often seen as separate entities. These words seem conflicting to most of us and are often a topic of debate. Science seems to question the existence of God and believers of God often question why we are unable to explain the entire universe completely by science till date, a question on the success of science. We can often come across debates on televisions, radio, magazines, etc where people try to prove one as superior over the other. But, are they really two different things? Are they conflicting terms? Or are they same?

A deeper thought over it can clear our confusion. If we deep dig, we find that indeed both are connected. We really don’t need to choose between them. Science and God, are superior powers. The differences arise when we start associating God with some particular religion and Science with the only education. In reality, science is the process of thinking God’s thought after him. “An equation is really nothing unless it expresses a thought of God”, according to Ramanujan. They both actually merge at the spiritual level.

When we talk of science, it is the theories, the fundamental laws that very well explains the nature around us. It offers an explanation of all the natural phenomena in a very beautiful way and at a very basic level. It helped us understand how to converse in the language of nature, i.e in mathematics. It gives human power. The more we as humans understand science, the more powerful we become. Visit the days when humans started to understand science to get to know about the secrets of nature, the things they imagined then are now a reality. The gadgets they considered as their dreams are now in our hands. The technology we imagine today will also become a reality pretty soon. Science gave a power to humans to achieve the impossible.

God, on the other hand, is another superiority. There has been no proper evidence of someone seeing a God. We have not seen God, but we all believe in a “power” that is superior to all of us and many refer to this superior power as “God”. God gives humans the strength and power by making us understand the language of love and humanity. Spirituality is the heart of a human being and through God, we reach here. God helps us understand our potential and make us believe in our strengths. It changes our perception and makes the world a very beautiful and peaceful place for us. The world is incomplete without God.

We can thus conclude,  that both Science and God are a source of immense power to human beings and both are tied together. Both speak the same language. The more faith we develop in God, the more we get close to science, the more we understand science, our belief in the existence of God becomes stronger. Louis Pasteur rightly said that “a bit of science can distance us from God, but more of it nears one to him”, and that is for sure. Diving deep into them will give us immense power and peace.

10 Best Places To Visit In Mcleodganj 😍

10 Best Places To Visit In Mcleodganj

Famous amongst wanderers as ‘Little Lhasa’, Mcleodganj is one of the few places in India where one can witness the perfect blend of Indian and Tibetan cultures living in harmony with each other. This hill town boasts of alluring bounties such as picturesque trekking trails, soothing weather conditions, idyllic landscapes, and vibrant culture. It’s the perfect place to witness the beauty of Himachal by exploring these 23 best places to visit in Mcleodganj during your next trip to this Himalayan wonderland.1. Triund – Crown Jewel Of DharamshalaKnown as the crown jewel of Dharamshala, Triund is one of the most popular Mcleodganj tourist places. The trek from Mcleodganj to Triund takes you through scenic landscapes and rocky terrains. Night Camping at the hilltop under the starlit sky is a visual treat that travelers can enjoy during their Triund trek.Location: Himachal Pradesh 176219Timings: AnytimeBest time to visit: May and JuneFamous For: TrekkingEntry Fee: FreeHow to reach: You will first have to reach the Gullu Temple from where you can start your trek to Triund which is around 6 kms away.2. Bhagsu Falls – Paradisiacal SceneryBhagsu Falls, the most popular Mcleodganj waterfall, is known for its lush green surroundings, and paradisiacal scenery. Located in the quaint village of Bhagsu, it is one of the best places to visit in Mcleodganj where travelers can take a dip in the freezing water, click pictures, and savor lip-smacking food at nearby cafes.Location: Trail to Shri Gunna Devi Mandir, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219Timings: Open 24 hoursBest time to visit: March to JuneFamous For: SightseeingEntry Fee: FreeHow to reach: The falls are located at a distance of only 2 kilometers from the main market so one can easily walk to these waterfalls.3.Nechung Monastery – Awe Inspiring ViewDedicated to the Goddess Kali, Guna Devi Temple is one of the most popular places to visit near Mcleodganj. Surrounded by lush green Oak, and Deodar trees, this temple does not only have a mystical significance but also allows travelers to cherish the mesmerizing views of the Kangra valley.Location: Naddi Village, DharamsalaBest time to visit: October to DecemberFamous For: SightseeinHow to reach: The temple is located at a distance of 4 kilometers from Naddi. You can take a cab to reach half way and from there you will have to opt for a trek.4.Sunset Point – Cherish Enthralling ViewsAs the name suggests, Sunset Point provides enthralling views of the setting sun that slowly dips down behind the majestic Dhauladhar ranges. It is one of the best places to visit in Mcleodganj Himachal Pradesh for photographers, and nature enthusiasts, where they can relish an exhilarating view of the Naddi Village.Location: Naddi Village, DharamsalaTimings: SunsetBest time to visit: October to FebruaryFamous For: Mesmerizing viewsEntry Fee: FreeHow to reach: Take a cab from Mcleodganj and reach the sunset point. On the way, you will also get to see Dal Lake where you can take a pit stop.5.St. John’s Church – Known For Rock Solid ArchitectureDepicting authentic neo-Gothic architecture, St. John’s church is among the top Mcleodganj tourist attractions. Dedicated to John – the Baptist, this church is embedded in the forest area of Forsyth Ganj, and is known for its rock-solid architecture, wild surroundings, and pacifying vibes.Location: Naddi Village to Mcleodganj RoadTimings: 7 am to 7 pmBest time to visit: October to FebruaryFamous For: SightseeingEntry Fee: FreeHow to reach: The best way to reach this church is by taking a cab ride from Mcleodganj.5. InrPas – An Offbeat Placenown for its venturesome trekking trail, Indrahar pass is one of the best places to visit in Mcleodganj for travelers who wish to explore offbeat places. Situated at an altitude of 4,342 meters, the Indrahar pass offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges and an extensive floral diversity of the surrounding hills.Location: Dhar Alangari, Himachal Pradesh 176219Best time to visit: May and JuneFamous For: TrekkingHow to reach: The most appropriate3 way to reach Indrahar pass from Mcleodganj is by road or railways.6. Vipassana Meditation Centre – Find Peace Of MindNestled by the Dhauladhar ranges, Vipassana Meditation Centre in Dharamkot is an oasis of peace, and tranquility. It is one of the best attractions in Mcleodganj where travelers can find peace of mind amidst the soothing Himalayan mountains, far from the hustle and bustle of the cities.Location: Kangra, McLeodganj, DharamsalaTimings: 9:30 to 11:30am, 12:30 to 4pm (Closed on Sunday)Best time to visit: October to FebruaryFamous For: Tranquil environsHow to reach: The center is located at a distance of 8 kms which can be covered with a cab ride.7.Maharana Pratap Sagar Lake – Bird WatchingAlso known as Pong Dam Lake, Maharana Pratap Sagar is an artificial lake arising from the reservoir built across the Beas river. It is one of the best places to visit in Mcleodganj where tourists can indulge in activities such as boating, fishing, and bird watching amidst a picturesque landscape of alluring mountains.Location: Kangra district, Himachal PradeshBest time to visit: October to FebruaryFamous For: SightseeingHow to reach: The lake is sitauated at a distance of 100 kms which can be covered via a cab ride.8. Dharamkot – A Quaint TownDharamkot is a less known but beautiful hippie village situated very close to Mcleodganj in Dharamshala. Also known as the Yoga Village, this quaint town makes up for one of the most excellent places of interest in Mcleodganj owing to its untouched and untampered beauty and no crowd of tourists.If you’re looking for nothing more than relaxation, peace and quiet, as well as stunning views of the mighty Dhauladhar ranges to greet you every morning, then this tiny hamlet is the perfect place for you to head to! It’s also home to the Dhamma Sikhara Vipassana Meditation Centre and Tushita Buddhist Meditation Centre where you can have a peaceful and refreshing yoga retreat amidst the goodness of nature and a blissful weather!Location: Himachal PradeshTimings: AnytimeBest time to visit: September to JuneFamous for: Beautiful sceneriesEntry Fee: NilHow to reach: You can just take a bus or auto rickshaw from anywhere in Mcleodganj to get Dharamkot, which is just 2 km away from Mcleodganj.9. Kareri Lake – Admire The Natural BeautyKareri Dal Lake in Dharamshala exuding serenity and tranquilityLocated in a high altitude area, Kareri Lake is one of the famous tourist places in Mcleodganj. This freshwater lake is frequently visited by tourists to capture the scenic beauties. The lake starts from Mcleodganj and leads up to the Karen village. Not only the lake is a great place to admire the natural beauty but also an excellent place for photography and trekking. Snow, being the main water source, the lake water is crystal clear.Location: Dharamshala, Kangra DistrictTimings: AnytimeBest time to visit: May to July and September to NovemberFamous For: Trekking and photographyHow to reach: To reach the lake you will have to opt for a trek.10.Kangra Fort – A Royal PalaceAnother popular Mcleodganj tourist places, Kangra Fort is a royal palace built by the royal Katoch dynasty. It is amongst the oldest architecture in India. A witness to numerous evolution, wars and invasions, it is a perfect place for historians and photographers who are looking to dig up India’s past. Enjoy the magnificent view of the Manjhi and Banganga rivers from the Kangra Fort.This majestic sample of architecture, without a doubt is one of the best places to see in Mcleodganj.Location: Old Kangra, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh 176001Timings: 9 am to 5:30 pmEntry fee: INR 100 per personBest time to visit: September to NovemberFamous For: Majestic architectureHow to reach: The fort is located at a distance of 28 kms which can be reached by a simple taxi ride.

Beauty of uttarakhand 😍

उत्तराखण्ड (पूर्व नाम उत्तरांचल), उत्तर भारत में स्थित एक राज्य है जिसका निर्माण ९ नवम्बर २००० को कई वर्षों के आन्दोलन के पश्चात भारत गणराज्य के सत्ताइसवें राज्य के रूप में किया गया था। सन २००० से २००६ तक यह उत्तरांचल के नाम से जाना जाता था। जनवरी २००७ में स्थानीय लोगों की भावनाओं को ध्यान में रखते हुए राज्य का आधिकारिक नाम बदलकर उत्तराखण्ड कर दिया गया। राज्य की सीमाएँ उत्तर में तिब्बत और पूर्व में नेपाल से लगी हैं। पश्चिम में हिमाचल प्रदेश और दक्षिण में उत्तर प्रदेश इसकी सीमा से लगे राज्य हैं। सन २००० में अपने गठन से पूर्व यह उत्तर प्रदेश का एक भाग था। पारम्परिक हिन्दू ग्रन्थों और प्राचीन साहित्य में इस क्षेत्र का उल्लेख उत्तराखण्ड के रूप में किया गया है। हिन्दी और संस्कृत में उत्तराखण्ड का अर्थ उत्तरी क्षेत्र या भाग होता है। राज्य में हिन्दू धर्म की पवित्रतम और भारत की सबसे बड़ी नदियों गंगा और यमुना के उद्गम स्थल क्रमशः गंगोत्री और यमुनोत्री तथा इनके तटों पर बसे वैदिक संस्कृति के कई महत्त्वपूर्ण तीर्थस्थान हैं।देहरादून, उत्तराखण्ड की अन्तरिम राजधानी होने के साथ इस राज्य का सबसे बड़ा नगर है। गैरसैण नामक एक छोटे से कस्बे को इसकी भौगोलिक स्थिति को देखते हुए भविष्य की राजधानी के रूप में प्रस्तावित किया गया है किन्तु विवादों और संसाधनों के अभाव के चलते अभी भी देहरादून अस्थाई राजधानी बना हुआ है।राज्य का उच्च न्यायालय नैनीताल में है।राज्य सरकार ने हाल ही में हस्तशिल्प और हथकरघा उद्योगों को बढ़ावा देने के लिये कुछ पहल की हैं। साथ ही बढ़ते पर्यटन व्यापार तथा उच्च तकनीकी वाले उद्योगों को प्रोत्साहन देने के लिए आकर्षक कर योजनायें प्रस्तुत की हैं। राज्य में कुछ विवादास्पद किन्तु वृहत बाँध परियोजनाएँ भी हैं जिनकी पूरे देश में कई बार आलोचनाएँ भी की जाती रही हैं, जिनमें विशेष है भागीरथी-भीलांगना नदियों पर बनने वाली टिहरी बाँध परियोजना। इस परियोजना की कल्पना १९५३ मे की गई थी और यह अन्ततः २००७ में बनकर तैयार हुआ। उत्तराखण्ड, चिपको आन्दोलन के जन्मस्थान के नाम से भी जाना जाता है।फुरसती, साहसिक और धार्मिक पर्यटन उत्तराखण्ड की अर्थव्यस्था में महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभाते हैं, जैसे जिम कॉर्बेट राष्ट्रीय उद्यान और बाघ संरक्षण-क्षेत्र और नैनीताल, अल्मोड़ा, कसौनी, भीमताल, रानीखेत और मसूरी जैसे निकट के पहाड़ी पर्यटन स्थल जो भारत के सर्वाधिक पधारे जाने वाले पर्यटन स्थलों में हैं। पर्वतारोहियों के लिए राज्य में कई चोटियाँ हैं, जिनमें से नंदा देवी, सबसे ऊँची चोटी है और १९८२ से अबाध्य है। अन्य राष्टीय आश्चर्य हैं फूलों की घाटी, जो नंदा देवी के साथ मिलकर यूनेस्को विश्व धरोहर स्थल है।उत्तराखण्ड में, जिसे “देवभूमि” भी कहा जाता है, हिन्दू धर्म के कुछ सबसे पवित्र तीर्थस्थान है और हज़ार वर्षों से भी अधिक समय से तीर्थयात्री मोक्ष और पाप शुद्धिकरण की खोज में यहाँ आ रहे हैं। गंगोत्री और यमुनोत्री, को क्रमशः गंगा और यमुना नदियों के उदग्म स्थल हैं, केदारनाथ (भगवान शिव को समर्पित) और बद्रीनाथ (भगवान विष्णु को समर्पित) के साथ मिलकर उत्तराखण्ड के छोटा चार धाम बनाते हैं, जो हिन्दू धर्म के पवित्रतम परिपथ में से एक है। हरिद्वार के निकट स्थित ऋषिकेश भारत में योग क एक प्रमुख स्थल है और जो हरिद्वार के साथ मिलकर एक पवित्र हिन्दू तीर्थ स्थल है।हरिद्वार में संध्या आरती के समय हर की पौड़ी का एक दृश्य।हरिद्वार में प्रति बारह वर्षों में कुम्भ मेले का आयोजन किया जाता है जिसमें देश-विदेश से आए करोड़ो श्रद्धालू भाग लेते हैं। राज्य में मंदिरों और तीर्थस्थानों की बहुतायत है, जो स्थानीय देवताओं या शिवजी या दुर्गाजी के अवतारों को समर्पित हैं और जिनका सन्दर्भ हिन्दू धर्मग्रन्थों और गाथाओं में मिलता है। इन मन्दिरों का वास्तुशिल्प स्थानीय प्रतीकात्मक है और शेष भारत से थोड़ा भिन्न है। जागेश्वर में स्थित प्राचीन मन्दिर (देवदार वृक्षों से घिरा हुआ १२४ मन्दिरों का प्राणंग) एतिहासिक रूप से अपनी वास्तुशिल्प विशिष्टता के कारण सर्वाधिक महत्वपूर्ण हैं। तथापि, उत्तराखण्ड केवल हिन्दुओं के लिए ही तीर्थाटन स्थल नहीं है। हिमालय की गोद में स्थित हेमकुण्ड साहिब, सिखों का तीर्थ स्थल है। मिंद्रोलिंग मठ और उसके बौद्ध स्तूप से यहाँ तिब्बती बौद्ध धर्म की भी उपस्थिति है।पर्यटन स्थलउत्तराखण्ड में बहुत से पर्यटन स्थल है जहाँ पर भारत ही नहीं बल्कि पूरी दुनिया से पर्यटक आते हैं, जैसे नैनीताल और मसूरी। राज्य के प्रमुख पर्यटन स्थल हैं:केदारनाथ नैनीताल गंगोत्री यमुनोत्री बद्रीनाथ अल्मोड़ा ऋषिकेश हेमकुण्ड साहिब नानकमत्ताफूलों की घाटी मसूरी देहरादून हरिद्वारऔलीचक राता रानीखेत बागेश्वर भीमताल कौसानीलैंसडाउनरहन-सहनउत्तराखण्ड एक पहाड़ी प्रदेश है। यहाँ ठण्ड बहुत होती है इसलिए यहाँ लोगों के मकान पक्के होते हैं। दीवारें पत्थरों की होती है। पुराने घरों के ऊपर से पत्थर बिछाए जाते हैं। वर्तमान में लोग सीमेण्ट का उपयोग करने लग गए है। अधिकतर घरों में रात को रोटी तथा दिन में भात (चावल) खाने का प्रचलन है। लगभग हर महीने कोई न कोई त्योहार मनाया जाता है। त्योहार के बहाने अधिकतर घरों में समय-समय पर पकवान बनते हैं। स्थानीय स्तर पर उगाई जाने वाली गहत, रैंस, भट्ट आदि दालों का प्रयोग होता है। प्राचीन समय में मण्डुवा व झुंगोरा स्थानीय मोटा अनाज होता था। अब इनका उत्पादन बहुत कम होता है। अब लोग बाजार से गेहूं व चावल खरीदते हैं। कृषि के साथ पशुपालन लगभग सभी घरों में होता है। घर में उत्पादित अनाज कुछ ही महीनों के लिए पर्याप्त होता है। कस्बों के समीप के लोग दूध का व्यवसाय भी करते हैं। पहाड़ के लोग बहुत परिश्रमी होते है। पहाड़ों को काट-काटकर सीढ़ीदार खेत बनाने का काम इनके परिश्रम को प्रदर्शित भी करता है। पहाड़ में अधिकतर श्रमिक भी पढ़े-लिखे है, चाहे कम ही पढ़े हों। इस कारण इस राज्य की साक्षरता दर भी राष्ट्रीय औसत से कहीं अधिक है।त्यौहारशेष भारत के समान ही उत्तराखण्ड में पूरे वर्षभर उत्सव मनाए जाते हैं। भारत के प्रमुख उत्सवों जैसे दीपावली, होली, दशहरा इत्यादि के अतिरिक्त यहाँ के कुछ स्थानीय त्योहार हैं।देवीधुरा मेला (देवीधुरा, चम्पावत)पूर्णागिरी मेला (टनकपुर, चम्पावत)नन्दा देवी मेला (अल्मोड़ा)गौचर मेला (गौचर, चमोली)वैशाखी (उत्तरकाशी)माघ मेला (उत्तरकाशी)उत्तरायणी मेला (बागेश्वर)विशु मेला (जौनसार बावर)हरेला (कुमाऊँ)गंगा दशहरानन्दा देवी राजजात यात्रा जो हर बारहवें वर्ष होती हैखानपानइन्हें भी देखें: पहाड़ी खाना एवं भारतीय खानाउत्तराखण्डी खानपान का अर्थ राज्य के दोनों मण्डलों, कुमाऊँ और गढ़वाल, के खानपान से है। पारम्परिक उत्तराखण्डी खानपान बहुत पौष्टिक और बनाने में सरल होता है। प्रयुक्त होने वाली सामग्री सुगमता से किसी भी स्थानीय भारतीय किराना दुकान में मिल जाती है।यहाँ के कुछ विशिष्ट खानपान हैआलू टमाटर का झोलचैंसूझोईकापिलूमंण्डुए की रोटीपीनालू की सब्जीबथुए का पराँठाबाल मिठाईसिसौंण का सागगौहोत की दालवेशभूषापारम्परिक रूप से उत्तराखण्ड की महिलायें घाघरा तथा आँगड़ी, तथा पुरूष चूड़ीदार पजामा व कुर्ता पहनते थे। अब इनका स्थान पेटीकोट, ब्लाउज व साड़ी ने ले लिया है। जाड़ों (सर्दियों) में ऊनी कपड़ों का उपयोग होता है। विवाह आदि शुभ कार्यो के अवसर पर कई क्षेत्रों में अभी भी सनील का घाघरा पहनने की परम्परा है। गले में गलोबन्द, चर्‌यो, जै माला, नाक में नथ, कानों में कर्णफूल, कुण्डल पहनने की परम्परा है। सिर में शीषफूल, हाथों में सोने या चाँदी के पौंजी तथा पैरों में बिछुए, पायजेब, पौंटा पहने जाते हैं। घर परिवार के समारोहों में ही आभूषण पहनने की परम्परा है। विवाहित औरत की पहचान गले में चरेऊ पहनने से होती है। विवाह इत्यादि शुभ अवसरों पर पिछौड़ा पहनने का भी यहाँ चलन आम है।लोक कलाएँलोक कला की दृष्टि से उत्तराखण्ड बहुत समृद्ध है। घर की सजावट में ही लोक कला सबसे पहले देखने को मिलती है। दशहरा, दीपावली, नामकरण, जनेऊ आदि शुभ अवसरों पर महिलाएँ घर में ऐंपण (अल्पना) बनाती है। इसके लिए घर, ऑंगन या सीढ़ियों को गेरू से लीपा जाता है। चावल को भिगोकर उसे पीसा जाता है। उसके लेप से आकर्षक चित्र बनाए जाते हैं। विभिन्न अवसरों पर नामकरण चौकी, सूर्य चौकी, स्नान चौकी, जन्मदिन चौकी, यज्ञोपवीत चौकी, विवाह चौकी, धूमिलअर्ध्य चौकी, वर चौकी, आचार्य चौकी, अष्टदल कमल, स्वास्तिक पीठ, विष्णु पीठ, शिव पीठ, शिव शक्ति पीठ, सरस्वती पीठ आदि परम्परागत रूप से गाँव की महिलाएँ स्वयं बनाती है। इनका कहीं प्रशिक्षण नहीं दिया जाता है। हरेले आदि पर्वों पर मिट्टी के डिकारे बनाए जाते है। ये डिकारे भगवान के प्रतीक माने जाते है। इनकी पूजा की जाती है। कुछ लोग मिट्टी की अच्छी-अच्छी मूर्तियाँ (डिकारे) बना लेते हैं। यहाँ के घरों को बनाते समय भी लोक कला प्रदर्षित होती है। पुराने समय के घरों के दरवाजों व खिड़कियों को लकड़ी की सजावट के साथ बनाया जाता रहा है। दरवाजों के चौखट पर देवी-देवताओं, हाथी, शेर, मोर आदि के चित्र नक्काशी करके बनाए जाते है। पुराने समय के बने घरों की छत पर चिड़ियों के घोंसलें बनाने के लिए भी स्थान छोड़ा जाता था। नक्काशी व चित्रकारी पारम्परिक रूप से आज भी होती है। इसमें समय काफी लगता है। वैश्वीकरण के दौर में आधुनिकता ने पुरानी कला को अलविदा कहना प्रारम्भ कर दिया। अल्मोड़ा सहित कई स्थानों में आज भी काष्ठ कला देखने को मिलती है। उत्तराखण्ड के प्राचीन मन्दिरों, नौलों में पत्थरों को तराश कर (काटकर) विभिन्न देवी-देवताओं के चित्र बनाए गए है। प्राचीन गुफाओं तथा उड्यारों में भी शैल चित्र देखने को मिलते हैं।उत्तराखण्ड की लोक धुनें भी अन्य प्रदेशों से भिन्न है। यहाँ के बाद्य यन्त्रों में नगाड़ा, ढोल, दमुआ, रणसिंग, भेरी, हुड़का, बीन, डौंरा, कुरूली, अलगाजा प्रमुख है। ढोल-दमुआ तथा बीन बाजा विशिष्ट वाद्ययन्त्र हैं जिनका प्रयोग आमतौर पर हर आयोजन में किया जाता है। यहाँ के लोक गीतों में न्योली, जोड़, झोड़ा, छपेली, बैर व फाग प्रमुख होते हैं। इन गीतों की रचना आम जनता द्वारा की जाती है। इसलिए इनका कोई एक लेखक नहीं होता है। यहां प्रचलित लोक कथाएँ भी स्थानीय परिवेश पर आधारित है। लोक कथाओं में लोक विश्वासों का चित्रण, लोक जीवन के दुःख दर्द का समावेश होता है। भारतीय साहित्य में लोक साहित्य सर्वमान्य है। लोक साहित्य मौखिक साहित्य होता है। इस प्रकार का मौखिक साहित्य उत्तराखण्ड में लोक गाथा के रूप में काफी है। प्राचीन समय में मनोरंजन के साधन नहीं थे। लोकगायक रात भर ग्रामवासियों को लोक गाथाएं सुनाते थे। इसमें मालसाई, रमैल, जागर आदि प्रचलित है। अभी गाँवों में रात्रि में लगने वाले जागर में लोक गाथाएं सुनने को मिलती है। यहां के लोक साहित्य में लोकोक्तियाँ, मुहावरे तथा पहेलियाँ (आंण) आज भी प्रचलन में है। उत्तराखण्ड का छोलिया नृत्य काफी प्रसिद्ध है। इस नृत्य में नृतक लबी-लम्बी तलवारें व गेण्डे की खाल से बनी ढाल लिए युद्ध करते है। यह युद्ध नगाड़े की चोट व रणसिंह के साथ होता है। इससे लगता है यह राजाओं के ऐतिहासिक युद्ध का प्रतीक है। कुछ क्षेत्रों में छोलिया नृत्य ढोल के साथ शृंगारिक रूप से होता है। छोलिया नृत्य में पुरूष भागीदारी होती है। कुमाऊँ तथा गढ़वाल में झुमैला तथा झोड़ा नृत्य होता है। झौड़ा नृत्य में महिलाएँ व पुरूष बहुत बड़े समूह में गोल घेरे में हाथ पकड़कर गाते हुए नृत्य करते है। विभिन्न अंचलों में झोड़ें में लय व ताल में अन्तर देखने को मिलता है। नृत्यों में सर्प नृत्य, पाण्डव नृत्य, जौनसारी, चाँचरी भी प्रमुख है।उत्तराखंड एक् विविधता का दर्शन देता हैं|उत्तराखंड साहि मैं भारत की सही अनुभुती हैं|

COLD WAR: Meaning and Its Origin

The concept of the Cold War, born in 1945 after the end of the Second World War, is a fact of international relations that exposes the mutual relations between the US and the Soviet Union. This is a new chapter in post-World War II international relations. It can also be named a new international political development.

The new chapter of friendship between the US and the Soviet Union began during the Second World War, which ended after the war, the mutual differences and feeling of disharmony between the two superpowers grew deeper and the two tried to humiliate each other. Started doing This effort led to a conflict situation rather than cooperation in the diplomatic, cultural, political and social fields in both countries. On the international stage, the two powers went on to accuse each other. In an attempt to prove their supremacy in the international world, both the superpowers started looking for new ways to bring most of the states of the world to their side. This created an atmosphere of unrest all over the world and eventually, the world was divided into two powerful factions – the capitalist bloc and the communist bloc, in which the first led the US and the second led the Soviet Union.

Meaning of cold war

As is clear from its name, it is not a war of arms and weapons but a war confined to threats. There was no real war in this war. It was limited to indirect war only. In this war, both the great powers were dominant in their ideological differences. It was a type of diplomatic war that was based on the efforts of the superpowers in narrow selfishness.

The Cold War was a type of speech war that was used in paper rounds, paper-magazines. Even radio and publicity tools were fought. In this war neither any bullet was fired nor anyone was injured. In this, both the superpowers fought indirect wars in most parts of the world to maintain their suzerainty. All measures to prevent the war from turning into an armistice were also used, it was only a war by diplomatic means in which the two superpowers continued to resort to all measures to degrade each other. The purpose of this war was to strengthen its position by involving the Allies in their respective factions so that in future each could easily cut off the moves of their opposing factions. This war was the final culmination of the mistrust and doubt that arose between the United States and the Soviet Union after World War II.

Jawaharlal Nehru defined the Cold War as saying that “this war was a war of suspended capital punishment atmosphere that was more terrible than a heated war.”

Thus it can be said that the Cold War was a speech war between two superpowers based on diplomatic measures. It was a direct expression of the tension created between the two superpowers after World War II. This was more terrible than the actual war, being an ideological war.

Origin of the Cold War

The symptoms of the Cold War started appearing during World War II itself. Both the superpowers were fighting the war keeping in mind their narrow interests and showing the spirit of mutual cooperation. The spirit of cooperation that was visible during the war was beginning to end after the war and the symptoms of the Cold War had begun to emerge, with the two factions becoming stronger complaining of each other. There were some strong grounds for these complaints. These mutual differences were the main causes of the Cold War.

The main reasons for the origin of the Cold War are-

  1. The Soviet Union not following the Yalta Agreement.
  2. The Soviet Union and America’s ideological differences.
  3. Soviet Union’s emergence as a powerful nation.
  4. Soviet Intervention in Iran.
  5. Soviet intervention in Turkey.
  6. Communist spread in Greece.
  7. Second Front Dispute.
  8. Appeasement policy.
  9. The Soviet Union ignores Balkan Agreement.
  10.  America’s nuclear program.
  11. Conflicting publicity.
  12. Termination of land-lease agreement.
  13. American support to fascist forces.
  14. Berlin controversy.
  15. Repeated use of veto power by the Soviet Union.
  16. Narrow national interest based on narrow nationalism.

MOTHER: THE TRUE WARRIOR

One-person on the frontline may have different names. When the entire universe bows down and love that person from the bottom of the heart, even if someone criticizes or tries to create rumors, still the word “mother” won’t fade away. The only person who loves without expecting anything in return, there’s nothing; comparatively, it’s priceless and cannot be quantified. She is the person who survives the aftermath of sequences of struggles in her entire life, beginning from discarded as a female child from birth itself.

A newborn in the caring hands of a mother.

Let us talk about the reality of a patriarchal society. Where the voices get suppressed, but now it’s reflected in the reports. According to the World Population 2020 Report released by UNPFA (United Nations Population Fund) conveys that in India, almost one-third of the total missing females in the world accounts for an estimated figure of 45.8 million people. The children below the age of 5 years, where one out of nine females foresees death due to early gender detection.

A girl child with this mother in a rural village in India.

This pandemic may heal nature, but not the people surviving in the nation, an increase in violence and discrimination is likely to be seen as a consequence of no income source. The practice of child marriage may have vanished, but there are still traces of such incidents where they tried to flout the laws. The technology may have been a boon, but when undauntedly used by the culprits to gender bias by ultrasound, it has crashed their compassion and dreams before it ignites.

A proud mother with her three daughters.

The developing countries are already trying to fight problems like reducing poverty, boosting literacy rate, abandoning illegal trade. Additionally, other matter of concern arises like child trafficking and drug abuse are acting as barriers to the roadmap to success. An abundant investment in terms of money as well as time from renowned leaders, influencers can save the lives of the hapless fate of being such a victim of unfortunate events.

One inspirational story I can share is about a small family where a baby girl enters their life. This incident may sound as a non-fictitious story, but in Mumbai, India, where after three years of marriage, god showers happiness as a unique member enters their life. A 32-year old father was happy to see his baby after ten days free of the contamination. The mother was a patient in the COVID ward in Nowrosjee Wadia Maternity Hospital. They are safe now and returned thanking the efforts taken by the hospital. These doctors and parents who abide by the guidelines do deserve appreciation rather than criticizing uselessly on the health system. The slow curve can take steady growth any day when we won’t be able to see each other, and the day isn’t too far.

Two mothers in a single frame. Such a beauty.

Even a mother can fall into depression; after all, she is a person like all of us. On a positive note, motherhood is seen over drugs while parenting their children. After testing it on rats, contributes the information in the research related to the infralimbic cortex, which is responsible for emotions, preferred the acceptance towards maternal behavior over other addictions. This action shows immense love for their offspring. We as a part of the nourishing society, we can pledge that we will never let their name die, and forever keeping her head upraised in pride.