Indian Tradition Research Articles

‘झूला’ - Swing: Associations in Literature

This research paper explores the literary and cultural symbolism of the swing, examining its representations in poetry, fiction and devotional literature. While commonly associated with childhood play and innocence, the swing transcends its physical form to embody deeper emotional, psychological and spiritual meanings. It functions as a metaphor for nostalgia, freedom, memory and transition; suspended between joy and sorrow, motion and stillness, past and future. Drawing from diverse literary works, the paper analyses the evocative use of swings in ‘Swing Song’ by A.A. Milne and ‘The Swing’ by Robert Louis Stevenson, where the swing symbolizes the wonder and transience of childhood. In fiction, Harper Lee’s ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ presents the swing as a symbol of childhood freedom within a racially divided world, while Arundhati Roy’s ‘The God of Small Things’ portrays it as a device reflecting emotional turmoil, trauma, and the oscillation between psychological states. The study also explores the spiritual and cultural resonance of the swing in Indian devotional traditions, especially within ‘bhakti’- devotional poetry. Prominent poets such as Mirabai and Surdas frequently depict Lord Krishna and Radha on the ‘jhoola’ – swing, with their verses symbolizing divine joy, rhythmic love and cosmic harmony. By examining these varied texts and traditions, the paper reveals how the swing serves as a potent literary and cultural symbol; bridging childhood and adulthood, the material and the spiritual and the remembered and the imagined. Ultimately, the swing becomes a suspended space that holds layered narratives of emotion, identity and meaning.

Trees of Eternity: A Study of Pīpala and Matsu in Indian and Japanese Death Beliefs

Indian and Japanese cultures have revered trees since ancient times, correlating them with their physical characteristics of fertility and growth and the spiritual symbolism of eternity, spiritual protection, and even the afterlife. The current paper explores the symbolic significance of trees in Indian and Japanese death beliefs, with a special emphasis on the Pīpala tree in India and the Matsu in Japan. According to Indian traditions, the Pīpala tree has long been believed to connect the earthly and divine realms, which has served as a site of meditation for sages who have attained enlightenment under the shade of this tree. Beyond that, the same tree also symbolizes several Hindu deities. Consequently, it is frequently associated with reincarnation and the life and death cycle. Similarly, in Japan, the Matsu tree symbolizes longevity and is commonly planted in cemeteries to protect the spirits of the deceased. The current study employs a comparative ethnographic approach: that illuminates the religious, mythological, and ritualistic customs that highlight the similar yet unique ways these trees influence their people’s conceptions of life and death.

Integrating Indigenous Knowledge Systems in Mega-Event Management: A Case Study of Maha Kumbh Mela

Abstract The Maha Kumbh Mela, the largest religious gathering in the world, offers a unique case study for understanding the application of Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) in mega-event management. Rooted in ancient Indian traditions, the Mela is managed through a sophisticated blend of spiritual governance, traditional crowd management techniques, and sustainable resource utilization. This study explores how indigenous knowledge informs logistical planning, public health strategies, environmental conservation, and disaster preparedness at the Maha Kumbh Mela. Using a qualitative research methodology, including historical analysis and case study evaluation, this paper highlights the role of IKS in managing complex socio-cultural events. The findings reveal that indigenous practices, coupled with modern governance frameworks, create an effective model for large-scale event management. The study concludes that integrating IKS with contemporary management strategies can enhance the sustainability and efficiency of mega-events globally. The Maha Kumbh Mela is not just a religious congregation; it is a living example of how Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) sustain large-scale human gatherings with remarkable efficiency. Despite hosting millions of pilgrims, the event functions seamlessly, thanks to age-old wisdom in crowd behavior, ecological balance, and decentralized governance. This study delves into the practical application of IKS, revealing how traditional timekeeping, sacred spatial planning, and community-led administration contribute to its success. The findings suggest that harmonizing IKS with modern innovations can offer scalable, sustainable solutions for managing mega-events, disaster relief operations, and urban planning worldwide. Keywords Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS), Maha Kumbh Mela, Mega-Event Management, Sustainable Practices, Crowd Control Strategies

Effective Strategies for Promoting Ayurvedic Medicines in the Healthcare Market

Ayurvedic medicine, an ancient system of natural healing deeply embedded in Indian tradition, is gaining significant global traction for its holistic and preventive approach to health. However, despite its rising popularity, Ayurvedic products face several obstacles in the healthcare sector, such as strict regulatory frameworks, insufficient scientific research, competition from mainstream allopathic treatments, and limited public awareness. This study seeks to identify and assess effective strategies for advancing the promotion of Ayurvedic medicines through the use of modern marketing practices, adherence to regulatory standards, and enhanced consumer education. The research highlights the influence of digital marketing tools, social media outreach, and influencer marketing in boosting the visibility and trustworthiness of Ayurvedic brands. It also investigates the role of collaborations with medical professionals and institutions in building consumer confidence and acceptance. Emphasis is placed on the development of scientifically supported products, transparent labeling, and alignment with global healthcare standards as essential steps to address consumer doubts and improve credibility. Moreover, the paper underscores the necessity of revamping branding strategies by incorporating visually appealing packaging, clear messaging of product advantages, and demographically targeted promotional activities. The use of online platforms and mobile applications is also recognized as vital for increasing product accessibility and expanding market reach. By blending time-honored Ayurvedic principles with modern business and marketing techniques, this research delivers practical recommendations for industry stakeholders, including businesses, regulatory bodies, and healthcare providers, aiming to enhance the market impact of Ayurvedic medicines. The findings contribute meaningfully to ongoing discussions on the integration of alternative medicine into mainstream healthcare and present a roadmap for fostering sustainable growth and broader acceptance of Ayurvedic solutions in today's competitive medical landscape.

Textual Tradition of India and the West: A Study

Indian textual tradition dates back to the later Vedic Period. It is a firm belief that Veda has directly come from the Almighty and is created even before the existence of human beings. They are considered among the oldest, if not the oldest, religious works in the world. They are commonly referred to as “scripture”, which is accurate in that they can be defined as holy writ concerning the nature of the Divine. Unlike the scriptures of other religions, however, the Vedas are not thought to have been revealed to a certain person or persons at a specific historical moment; they are believed to have always existed and were apprehended by sages in deep meditative states at some point prior to c. 1500 BCE but precisely when is unknown. In contrast to this, the Holy bible focuses on ‘WORD’. According to the Gospel of John, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (John 1:1). This passage suggests that Jesus is not only a messenger of God's word but that He is the very essence of that word. The importance of ‘word’ has given the required ground to the acquired prosperity of the textual culture in the west and with the spread of Christianity in the world this concept is spread. The current paper tries to study both the textual traditions in this light and provide a just comparison with the help of selected texts.

ROLE AND IMPACT OF EDUCATIONAL RITUALS IN INDIAN EDUCATION SYSTEM

The role of educational sanskars in Indian education system has been very important, because they not only impart knowledge, but also inculcate morality, culture and social values ​​in students. The purpose of education is not limited to academic achievement, but it helps in the overall development of a person. Educational sanskars develop discipline, dedication, tolerance, and moral conduct in students, so that they can become responsible citizens of the society. In Indian traditions, from the Gurukul system to the modern education system, the impact of sanskar-based education can be clearly seen. In the current perspective, changes are taking place in the education system due to globalization and technological progress, due to which the role of educational sanskars has become more relevant. Educational sanskars can be inculcated in students through moral education, education of human values, and co-curricular activities. This research studies the historical and modern perspective of educational sanskars in the Indian education system and analyzes how these sanskars contribute to the personality development of students and social harmony.

EXPLORING THE ROOTS OF THE CONCEPT OF GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP EDUCATION IN INDIAN ETHOS

This paper explores Global Citizenship Education (GCED) and its connection with ancient Indian texts with a view to establish how these texts can foster GCED that thrives on responsibility, care and interdependence of the world. GCED is designed to incite global awareness and practice towards sustainable living through the acknowledgement of the intertwined economic, social and cultural foundations of a common human experience. Principles such as Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family), Atithi Devo Bhava (the sacred hospitality) and Lokah Samastah Sukhinu Bhavantu (universal well-being) of the Indian scriptures like Vedas, Upanishads have GCED values, embedded as inclusivity, empathy and oneness. Content analysis method is used in this qualitative research to demonstrate how this texts construct a spiritual and cultural basis for global citizenship education which promotes harmonious and coexistence and respect for diversity. Such ideals also focus on the global ethic that recognizes people from the different parts of the world to embrace the highest standards of activeness through being kind citizens of the world. India is one of the richest sources of thoughts on unity and interconnectedness, and the findings reveal that Indian philosophical traditions can provide a timeless blueprint for a globally conscious and culturally sensitive society. The integration of these ancient teachings opens up possibility to bring a holistic, ethic-based framework that promotes the values of global citizenship in nurturing a peaceful and sustainable world.

“Artistic” Femininity: Republican Nandan and the Discourse of Xiqu “Aestheticism”

In her influential 1988 essay “Feminist Theory, Poststructuralism, and Performance,” American performance theorist Peggy Phelan documented her “most disturbingly interesting” exposure to what she calls “Eastern dance forms” at an international gathering of scholars, performers, and the like. 1 The conference is said not only to have fostered strenuous discussions of the female role in such traditions as Balinese dance-drama, Indian kathakali, Japanese kabuki, and “Chinese opera,” but also to have featured the performance of a youthful male performer of female roles in the Indian odissi tradition. Astonished, if not disappointed, by the conference’s disengagement with the politics of representing female roles, Phelan asserts that “[s]uch classical female roles played by men or women do not, by definition and design, penetrate the ‘identity’ of any female; they are surface representations whose appeal exists precisely as surface.” 2 And this “surface femininity” is said to hinge upon “immediate recognition of the comic artifice and reverent idealization of the form,” which “reminds the spectator of the absence of the female (the lack) rather than of her presence.” 3

The Problem of Studying “Mental States” in Ancient Thought

This article presents a comprehensive analysis of how the concept of mental states evolved in the philosophical schools of the ancient world. The study covers the earliest period, when internal experiences were interpreted through the prism of supernatural phenomena, and traces the gradual shift from mystical interpretations to a rational understanding of the soul, mind, and emotions. It examines the views of ancient Greek philosophers (Plato, Aristotle, the Stoics), as well as the perspectives found in Indian (Buddhism and Jainism) and ancient Chinese (Taoism and Confucianism) traditions. Particular attention is paid to how the initial religious–mystical interpretations served as a starting point for the development of ethical principles, spiritual practices, and modern psychology.

Threads of Identity, The Cultural Tapestry of the Jawi Peranakan Kebaya

The Jawi Peranakan community stands as a remarkable testament to the rich tapestry of cultural exchange and hybrid identity in Southeast Asia. Emerging from the intermarriages between Tamil Muslim traders, known as Chulias, and local Malay women during the 17th and 18th centuries, this unique group has woven together diverse influences from Indian, Malay, and Islamic traditions. Central to their cultural expression is the kebaya, a traditional garment that transcends mere fashion to embody the community's historical journey, social status, and religious values. The kebaya, originally a long, flowing blouse worn over a sarong, has undergone significant evolution, reflecting the intricate interplay of cultural influences that define the Jawi Peranakan identity. As the Chulias integrated into local societies, they adapted their attire to align with Islamic principles of modesty while incorporating elements of Malay aesthetics and Indian textile artistry. This garment not only serves as a symbol of cultural heritage but also as a marker of social standing, showcasing the wealth and refinement of the Jawi Peranakan women who wear it.Moreover, the kebaya's design and construction reveal a fascinating narrative of resilience and adaptation. The incorporation of vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and luxurious fabrics speaks to the community's ability to navigate and negotiate their hybrid status within the broader Malaysian landscape. The use of traditional accessories, such as the kerongsang, further emphasizes the cultural synthesis that characterizes the Jawi Peranakan identity. This essay delves into the evolution of the Jawi Peranakan kebaya, exploring its intricate designs, the cultural synthesis it represents, and its enduring significance in preserving the heritage of a community that continues to navigate the complexities of identity in a modern world. Through the lens of the kebaya, we can appreciate the profound impact of intercultural interactions and the resilience of the Jawi Peranakan in maintaining their unique cultural legacy amidst the broader Malaysian landscape. By examining the historical context and contemporary relevance of the kebaya, we gain insight into the broader themes of cultural integration, identity formation, and the enduring power of tradition in shaping the lives of the Jawi Peranakan community

Nature-Based Solutions as Tradition in India: Lessons for Water Sustainability in the Peri-Urban

The discourse around ‘nature-based solutions’ (NBSs) is quite recent, but this paper contends that, as knowledge and practice, the notion of NBS is not novel. Indigenous and rural communities are known to work closely with nature to fulfil their water needs, eke out sustainable livelihoods, and cope with climate variability and the impacts of natural disasters. India is a country where NBS has been a tradition for millennia. Water has been sustainably managed here and related societal challenges successfully met through the use of nature, natural systems, or natural processes within rural as well as urban settings. However, despite the merits, in recent times, many of the old NBSs have come to be neglected and degraded, being increasingly replaced by gray infrastructure. These changes are deepening the water crisis in the country, with the rapidly transforming peri-urban locations being an important area of concern. This paper outlines some of the major NBS forms traditionally established and used in different parts of India. Thereafter, using an integrated analytical framework for assessing sustainability of NBS (developed under project NATWIP), the value of the NBS legacy in India will be analyzed. Finally, the paper proposes important lessons as a way forward for enhancing water sustainability in peri-urban India that is based on the adoption and rejuvenation of the disappearing NBS science in the country.

Art and Environmental Protection

The article highlights the alarming and ongoing environmental crisis in India, particularly in the National Capital Region (NCR), where air pollution, toxic water bodies, and unmanageable waste are leading to severe health complications and, in extreme cases, even resulting in death of residents. Even though citizens and civil societies quickly critique the government, they fail to draw attention to public complacency, unawareness and lack of participatory action in combatting this crisis. Ironically, contemporary attitudes towards nature are contradictory to the cultural ethos of India. The ancient Indian tradition considered nature in its various forms as divine. The concept persists to this day, as is evident in many forms of nature worship. Unfortunately, the reverence for nature in the present day has become ritualistic, and the essence of nature worship, as understood by the ancients, has been lost due to heightened consumerism. The present article argues that art and culture can play a vital role in safeguarding the environment and maintaining ecological balance. By creating awareness about the Indian knowledge and value system reflected in ancient Indian art, literature and political discourses, the community can be made aware of the deep-rooted reverence for nature in Indic philosophies, where forests, rivers, and wildlife were regarded as sacred and protected through governance and cultural practices. The paper also emphasises the significance of contemporary art, which could be a potent tool in sensitising common people about the grave environmental crisis and facilitating their participation in environmental protection.

CULTURAL CONTINUITY OF UTTARAKHAND'S RAMLILA

Ram is the center point of the value concept of Indian wisdom" (Ramchand 2024: 169). Ramlila is an integral part of Indian culture and traditions, through which the life and ideals of Ram are presented in a dramatic form. This performance is very important from religious, social and cultural point of view. The tradition of Ramlila holds a special place in Uttarakhand, where it is a symbol of cultural heritage and community participation. The traditional form of Ramlila in Uttarakhand is full of localness, which is celebrated as a cultural festival in open spaces of villages, towns and cities, government land or buildings and the land of the staging committee. About 44 male and 18 female characters play an important role in the staging of Ramlila. The characters for the performance are usually selected from the local community, who display the traditional art of performance. The roles of the characters, traditional costumes, and the use of local musical instruments make this event even more special and picturesque. These performances show the inclusion of religiosity and customs, which gives the audience a unique experience of spirituality and entertainment. Technology and modernity have also influenced the form of Ramlila performance, such as the inclusion of modern sound and light arrangements, digital technology, modern songs and music and contemporary contexts make Ramlila more attractive. These technological changes have played an important role in connecting the young audience. The dramatic inclusion of contemporary problems and issues also makes the performance relevant and entertaining. Ramlila organizing committees consider Ramlila not only a religious event, but also a means of promoting social unity and community spirit. Along with spreading moral and religious values, this event is also helpful in preserving regional traditions. In Uttarakhand, this event is working to keep people connected to their cultural roots from generation to generation. Uttarakhand's Ramlila is known for its historicity, staging style, cultural diversity, and community participation. It is a wonderful example of harmony between tradition and modernity, where a confluence of traditional culture and modern presentation is seen. The study of Uttarakhand's Ramlila provides an opportunity to understand its historicity, staging style, cultural neutrality, community participation (especially in the context of women's participation), and the balance between tradition and modernity. It is not only a religious and cultural heritage, but also a living tradition, which accepts the change of time and maintains its relevance and originality as well as carries out the process of change and continuity.This is a part of the research work done under the ICSSR funded program "Comparative study of the history of Ramlila staging and contemporary styles of presentation in Uttarakhand and social impact assessment of women's participation".

The Evolution of Ancient Indian Civilization A Study of Vedic Culture and Its Global Impact

The ancient Indian civilization, rooted in the Vedic culture, represents one of the most profound and enduring contributions to human history. Emerging around 1500 BCE, the Vedic period laid the foundation for Indian society, shaping its religious, philosophical, and social structures. This study delves into the evolution of Vedic civilization, exploring its origins, cultural ethos, and the transformative role it played in shaping Indian traditions and global thought. Key aspects such as the development of the Vedas, the establishment of the caste system, and the evolution of rituals and spiritual practices are examined to understand their societal implications. Additionally, the research highlights the intellectual advancements of the period, including mathematics, astronomy, and linguistic studies, which influenced both Eastern and Western knowledge systems. The paper also evaluates the dissemination of Vedic philosophies—such as yoga, Ayurveda, and the concept of dharma—across borders, underscoring their relevance in contemporary global contexts. By analyzing the profound interplay between tradition and innovation, this study aims to illuminate the enduring legacy of Vedic culture as a cornerstone of ancient Indian civilization and its far-reaching impact on world history, culture, and thought.

Exploring Consciousness: An Indian Philosophical Perspective

Consciousness, a derivative of Latin word conscius (con- “together” and “scio” “to know”). In Simple terms it is awareness of internal and external existence. However, even now, defining consciousness remains a difficult Endeavor. Its nature has led to millennia of analyses, explanations, and debate by various philosophers. In the Western tradition, consciousness is basically a function of brain. In fact, it characterized psychology as a science of consciousness when it first emerged as a discipline in the latter half of the nineteenth century. In Indian philosophy, the study of consciousness is a basic component of the human experience that offers profound insights into the nature of the self, the cosmos, and life. According to Indian traditions, consciousness is a far broader idea that permeates the entire universe and is not just confined to human experience. It describes consciousness as an underlying, timeless principle that serves as the foundation for existence and the lens through which we perceive the universe. It is an innate, immutable principle that exists outside of the mental and physical domains. It Sees consciousness as a universal, all-pervading force that shapes and informs the very fabric of existence. The various viewpoints on consciousness including its philosophical, ethical, and spiritual aspects, are examined in this article. The essay offers Rich and varied viewpoints on consciousness provided by Indian philosophical traditions, emphasizing its essential, non-material character as well as its relationship to the self and the universe. Indian philosophies describe consciousness as an underlying, timeless principle that serves as the foundation for existence and the lens through which we perceive the universe, in contrast to Western perspectives that frequently reduce consciousness to brain activity.

Between fire and custom: A study of Indian cremation practices on the island of the gods (Bali)

Background: Cremation tradition is one of the ritual practices that has deep meaning in Indian and Balinese culture. This study explores the cremation practices of Indians on the island of Bali, which reflect the intersection between their ancestral traditions and local Balinese customs. In the context of globalization and migration, this study is relevant to understanding the dynamics of cultural interaction and the sustainability of ritual identity in a multicultural society. This research aims to analyze how Indians in Bali carry out their cremation practices, adapting or maintaining traditional Indian elements within the framework of Balinese customs. Methods: The methodology used is qualitative with in-depth interview techniques, participatory observation, and document analysis. Data was collected from the Indian community living in Bali, Balinese traditional leaders, and religious leaders. Findings: The results show that the cremation practices of Indians in Bali are the result of a process of cultural adaptation and negotiation. Although the core rituals continue to reflect Indian traditions, many elements are integrated with Balinese customs, such as the use of cremation sites and the involvement of local communities. This outcome reflects a unique cultural harmony and the sustainability of the tradition amidst the dynamics of social change. Conclusions: This study concludes that the cremation practice of Indians in Bali serves not only as a spiritual ritual but also as a symbol of harmonious cultural interaction. Novelty/Originality of this article: The findings have important implications for cultural anthropology and intercultural studies and can serve as a reference in designing policies that support cultural diversity in a globalized society.

Visualizing Essence of Boons from Epic Literature: A Panorama of Glorious Indian Tradition

Visualizing Essence of Boons from Epic Literature: A Panorama of Glorious Indian Tradition

Assimilating the ‘Earth-Energies’: The Ecological Roots in Heisnam Kanhailal’s Pebet and Memoirs of Africa

In the 1970s, the performance traditions in India witnessed a flurry of creative interventions to articulate contemporary sensibilities. If the state-sponsored ‘theatre of roots’ ultimately made these interventions what Rustom Bharucha called a ‘cosmetic’ act bereft of any meaningful connection with its originary ecology, theatre practitioners like Heisnam Kanhailal evolved a different idiom of theatre by rooting it in their immediate surroundings. Kanhailal conceptualised his theatre as the ‘theatre of the earth’—theatre that is rooted in the earth and is conditioned by the accumulated wisdom derived from the earth. It heavily relies on a ‘performance text’ that predominantly emphasises the non-verbal and gestural components and evolves organically through an intense process of physicalisation where the actors would establish a nuanced sensorial connection with the natural environment, its innate rhythm, movement, fluidity, and poeticism. The actors would absorb those earth-energies as they would effortlessly enact the most agonisingly turbulent facts of everyday life and the moments of resistance. By studying the ecological roots in Kanhailal’s Pebet and Memoirs of Africa, this paper looks at the ways in which his theatre assimilates the organic principles of life and how those earth-energies permeate the participant-audience, creating a symbiotic bond between them and the natural environment. The paper will examine, using appropriate theories, how the ‘theatre of the earth’ transcends the spatial limit and performs not only the ‘ecology of pain.’ but also an ‘ecology of hope.’ The paper will also explore the possibility of creating an ecology of resilience as it practices a syncretic form that focuses on the regenerative power of nature, thereby bridging the rift caused by the anthropocentric logic of domination and development.

Contribution of Sanskrit in Mathematics and Astronomy

यथा शिखा मयूराणाां नागाणाां मणयो यथा। तथा वेदाङ्गशास्त्राणां ज्योतिषं मूर्धनिस्थितम् ।। “Like the combs of the peacocks and the crest-jewel of the serpents, the science of, Jyotiṣa is situated at the head of all the sciences forming the auxillaries of the vedās (Vedāṇgas)” says Lagadha in Vedāṅga Jyotiṣa . Introduction Sanskrit’s contributions to the field of Mathematics and Astronomy are well known. Both Mathematics and Astronomy has played a vital role in all aspects of life in the Indian society. ‘Jyotiṣam’ an auxiliary of Veda(s), is a branch of study that includes Mathematics, Astronomy and Astrology. Mathematics forms the base for the study of Celestial bodies. The study of mathematics was always systematic in the Indian tradition. This paper is an attempt to summarize briefly the notable contributions of Indian Mathematicians / Astronomers.

Study on the Subjects and Styles of Mural Paintings in the Kizil Grottoes of Xinjiang

The Kizil Caves, situated in Baili County within the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China, rank among the most significant Buddhist sites along the historic Silk Road. The murals adorning these caves are not merely works of Buddhist art; they serve as invaluable resources for understanding the historical and cultural legacies of the Western Regions. This article delves into an in-depth examination of the themes and stylistic elements found in Kizil Cave murals, shedding light on their significance within Buddhist artistry and highlighting their rich characteristics reflecting multicultural fusion. These murals depict a wide range of themes, including narratives from Buddha's life, Jataka tales, stories exploring causal relationships, everyday secular activities, and decorative arts. Their artistic styles exhibit influences from Indian traditions, Central Asian motifs, and aspects derived from Han culture found in the Central Plains. Research findings underscore that the Kizil Cave murals hold remarkable artistic and historical significance; they encapsulate religious beliefs and social customs prevalent during that period while offering valuable insights into cultural interactions facilitated by the ancient Silk Road.