Fascinating form of body art

TATTOO 

Introduction

Tattoos are a fascinating form of body art where ink is permanently embedded in the skin to create designs. Across history, tattoos have been much more than decoration—they have served as symbols of status, identity, spirituality, and personal stories. What once carried cultural or ritual significance has evolved into a globally celebrated form of self-expression and fashion.

A Historical Ink Trail 📜

The earliest known evidence of tattooing dates back to the Neolithic period. Ötzi the Iceman, a 5,300-year-old mummy found in the Alps, had 61 tattoos believed to have been used for medicinal or therapeutic purposes. In Ancient Egypt, tattoos symbolised religious devotion and social standing, while Celts and Anglo-Saxons used them as war paint and tribal identifiers.

In Polynesia, tattooing—called tatau, the origin of the English word “tattoo”—was a sacred art form. These intricate patterns conveyed lineage, rank, and accomplishments. The process was often painful and viewed as a rite of passage, and an unmarked body was considered incomplete or without identity.

In India and parts of Africa, tattooing and body art have long been used in rituals and celebrations. Henna tattoos (mehndi) remain a cherished tradition during weddings and festivals, symbolising joy and blessing.

The Global Comeback 🌍

For centuries, tattoos in the Western world were stigmatised and associated with sailors, criminals, or social outsiders. This perception began to shift in the late 19th century. In 1891, Samuel O’Reilly’s invention of the electric tattoo machine revolutionised tattooing, making it faster, more precise, and widely accessible.

By the late 20th century, tattoos experienced a massive surge in popularity. Celebrities, musicians, and athletes proudly displayed their ink, helping to transform tattoos from taboo to trend. Today, tattooing is a booming global industry, with artists exploring an extraordinary range of styles—from traditional Japanese Irezumi and tribal designs to realistic portraits, abstract watercolor art, and minimalistic linework.

Modern Trends and Styles

Contemporary tattoo art is as diverse as the people who wear it. Popular trends include:

● Traditional tattoos: Bold lines and vibrant colors with classic motifs.

● Watercolor tattoos: Designs that resemble brushstrokes or splashes of paint.

● Minimalistic tattoos: Subtle, simple lines or symbols with deep meaning.

● Portrait tattoos: Realistic depictions of loved ones or inspirational figures.

● Cultural and spiritual tattoos: Designs that honor heritage or beliefs.

Tattoos have moved beyond rebellion to become statements of individuality, creativity, and even professional artistry. In many places, attitudes toward tattoos in workplaces and society have softened, though they still vary by culture.

More than just skin deep ✨

A tattoo is rarely just a drawing—it’s a powerful personal statement. People get tattoos for many reasons:

● Self-expression: To showcase personality, beliefs, or creativity.

● Memorials: To honor a loved one or commemorate a life-changing event.

● Cultural or spiritual connections: To preserve traditions or signify faith.

● Aesthetic appeal: To carry a piece of art they admire.

For many, tattoos are a way to reclaim their bodies after trauma or to celebrate milestones. They challenge traditional ideas of beauty and permanence, serving as a form of non-verbal communication—telling a story to those who see them and, most importantly, to the wearer.

Considerations before getting inked

While tattoos are meaningful and beautiful, they are permanent. Before getting one, it’s important to:

Research the design and its symbolism. Choose something meaningful and timeless.

Select a skilled, hygienic tattoo artist. Safety and quality are essential.

Think long-term. Trends change, but your tattoo will remain.

Understand the healing process and aftercare. Proper care ensures vibrant, lasting art.

Consider cultural and workplace attitudes. Visible tattoos may not be accepted everywhere.

Conclusion

Tattoos have traveled an extraordinary journey—from sacred tribal rituals and ancient therapeutic marks to a global art form celebrated for its creativity and personal meaning. Whether chosen to honour heritage, commemorate milestones, or simply express individuality, tattoos remain one of humanity’s most enduring forms of storytelling.

In a world of fleeting trends, a tattoo is deliberate and permanent—a memory, a conviction, or a work of art etched forever on the skin. Tattoos remind us that every design tells a story, and every story leaves a mark.

From Kurukshetra to Kitchens Worldwide

THE UDUPI KING AND KRISHNA’S BLESSING 

The Mahabharata was the greatest war of its time because there was hardly any kingdom that did not take part in it.

Rulers from India, Afghanistan, and even Iran chose sides—either with the Kauravas or the Pandavas. Yet, one southern kingdom stood apart, even while present on the battlefield: the kingdom of Udupi.

When the King of Udupi arrived at Kurukshetra with his army, both Kauravas and Pandavas tried to win him over. But the king was extremely farsighted. He approached Shri Krishna and asked:

“O Madhava! Everyone seems eager to fight this war. But has anyone considered how food will be arranged for such a massive army gathered here?”

Shri Krishna replied with a smile,

“Maharaj, you have raised an excellent question. From your words, I sense you already have a plan. Please tell me what you have in mind.”

The Udupi king said,

“O Vasudeva! A war between brothers seems unjust to me, and I do not wish to fight. But it is also true that this war cannot be avoided. So I have decided that I, along with my army, will stay here and arrange food for all the soldiers who will fight.”

Hearing this, Krishna said joyfully,

“Maharaj, your thought is noble! In this war, fifty lakh warriors will fight. If a capable king like you manages their food, we can rest assured. I also know that only two people could manage such a vast army’s meals—Bhima and you. But since Bhima must fight, I request you to take this responsibility.”

Thus, the King of Udupi took charge of feeding the armies.

On the very first day, he provided food for all the warriors so efficiently that not a single grain was wasted. As the days passed and the number of soldiers decreased, his arrangements remained perfect. Both sides wondered,

“How does the Udupi king know exactly how much food to prepare each day?”

Managing meals for such a massive army was itself a miracle, but doing it with absolute precision was nothing short of divine.

Finally, the war ended with the Pandavas’ victory. On the day of his coronation, Yudhishthira asked the Udupi king,

“Maharaj, all the kings praise us for defeating such a mighty army, led by great warriors like Bhishma, Dronacharya, and Karna, despite our small force. But I feel you deserve more praise than us—you fed millions of warriors without wasting even a single grain. What is your secret?”

The Udupi king smiled and asked,

“O Emperor, to whom do you give credit for your victory?”

Yudhishthira replied,

“To none other than Shri Krishna. Without Him, defeating the Kauravas would have been impossible.”

The king said gently,

“Just as you credit Shri Krishna for your victory, I credit Him for my miracle.”

Everyone was surprised. The king revealed the secret:

“Every night, Shri Krishna would eat groundnuts (peanuts). I would quietly count the shells He left behind. The number of peanuts He ate foretold the number of soldiers who would die the next day. If He ate 50 peanuts, then 50,000 soldiers would perish in the battle. Based on this, I would prepare the food. That is why no food was ever wasted.”

On hearing this divine secret, everyone bowed down in reverence to Shri Krishna.

It is said that Shri Krishna blessed the Udupi king:

“Because you arranged food with such devotion and skill, I bless you and your people. From now on, the men of your kingdom will naturally possess the talent to prepare pure, sattvic meals that will be renowned across the world.”

That is why, even today, Udupi people have opened restaurants across India and abroad. Their cuisine is famous everywhere, and due to Krishna’s blessing, Udupi restaurants serve only sattvic—pure, wholesome—food.

Even in modern times, it is rare to find a city in India without an Udupi restaurant, and overseas too, these restaurants flourish—still carrying the echo of Krishna’s ancient blessing.

This story is one of the rare tales from the Mahabharata and is often narrated in the Krishna Matha of Udupi, which was established by the King of Udupi himself. 

A Treasure Chest for the Planet’s Future

THE SVALBARD GLOBAL SEED VAULT 

Have you ever planted a tiny seed and watched it grow into a beautiful plant? 🌱 Now imagine a place where millions of seeds from every corner of the Earth are kept safe—like a giant time capsule for plants. That incredible place exists, and it’s called the Svalbard Global Seed Vault.

🌍 What is the Svalbard Global Seed Vault?

The Svalbard Global Seed Vault is a secure underground facility that stores duplicate copies of seeds from gene banks worldwide. Think of it as a “backup hard drive” for the world’s crops. If anything happens to crops due to war, disasters, pests, or climate change, these seeds can help farmers and scientists regrow them.

That’s why it’s nicknamed the “Doomsday Vault”—not because it’s scary, but because it’s humanity’s safety net for the future of food.

📍 Where is it and why Svalbard?

The vault is located 1,300 km (810 miles) from the North Pole on the island of Spitsbergen, part of Norway’s Svalbard archipelago in the Arctic Circle.

Why so remote and cold?

❄ Natural Freezer: The Arctic permafrost keeps seeds frozen even without much electricity.

🛡 Stable & Safe: Svalbard is geologically stable—no earthquakes or volcanoes—and politically neutral.

🌊 High Ground: Even if sea levels rise, the vault will remain above water.

🏗 What does the Vault look like?

From the outside, it looks like a mysterious concrete wedge jutting out of a snowy mountain. Inside is a 130-meter (426 ft) tunnel leading to three vast chambers. The temperature is kept at -18°C, similar to a deep freezer at home. The thick walls and remote location mean it could survive earthquakes, explosions, and even nuclear strikes.

Fun fact: Its entrance is decorated with an art installation called Perpetual Repercussion, which glows like ice crystals under the Arctic sky! ✨

🌾 Seeds stored inside

The vault can eventually hold 4.5 million seed samples—each containing hundreds of seeds. So far, over 1.2 million have been deposited. These include:

🍚 Rice and wheat – staples for billions of people.

🌽 Maize, beans, and barley.

🥕 Vegetables like carrots, cabbage, and eggplants.

🌿 Wild relatives of crops—plants not widely farmed but valuable for breeding climate-resilient varieties.

Even India has contributed! Indian scientists have sent seeds of rice, pigeon pea (tur dal), and other essential crops to protect South Asia’s agricultural heritage.

🌐 Who runs it?

The vault is managed through a partnership between:

The Norwegian Government 🇳🇴

The Global Crop Diversity Trust (Crop Trust)

The Nordic Genetic Resource Center (NordGen)

Countries and organisations send their seeds in sealed packages. They own their seeds—like safety deposit boxes in a bank. Nobody else can access them without permission.

📜 A real-life example: Syria’s war

In 2015, during the Syrian civil war, a major seed bank in Aleppo was destroyed. Scientists were able to withdraw their duplicates from the Svalbard Vault, replant them in safer locations, and save critical crops for the Middle East. It was the vault’s first real-world rescue mission—proof that it works!

⚡ New Developments & Technology

🌡 The vault uses minimal electricity because of natural permafrost cooling.

📊 Advanced barcoding systems track every single packet of seeds.

🌱 In 2020, during the pandemic, more than 60,000 new seed samples were added—reminding us how vital food security is.

🛰 Plans are underway to create digital maps of crop genetics alongside physical seeds for future research.

🌟 Why it matters for the future 

The Svalbard Vault isn’t just about food. It’s a symbol of global cooperation and hope:

🧬 Preserves biodiversity to help breed drought- or flood-resistant crops.

🍽 Ensures future food security, even if disaster strikes.

🌏 Unites nations, even those in conflict, around a shared responsibility to protect nature.

🧠 What can students learn?

Value of Biodiversity: Every plant, even wild weeds, might hold the secret to solving future food challenges.

Teamwork Across Borders: Countries set aside differences for a common cause.

STEM Inspiration: Careers in botany, genetics, and environmental science can make a global impact.

Small Things Matter: A single seed can save a species—or even a civilisation.

🎉 Did you know?

The vault opened on 26 February 2008.

It can survive earthquakes up to magnitude 10!

Even if the power fails, it can stay cold for 200 years.

New varieties like climate-smart rice and drought-tolerant maize are regularly added.

🌱 Final thought

The Svalbard Global Seed Vault is more than a cold storage for seeds—it’s a promise to future generations. It shows that even in a world of differences, humanity can unite to protect the foundation of life: plants.

Maybe one day, you could be a scientist, engineer, or environmentalist helping to save the planet’s biodiversity. After all, every great forest starts with a single seed! 🌍✨

September 18

WORLD BAMBOO DAY 

Introduction:

World Bamboo Day is celebrated every year on September 18 to raise global awareness about the importance of bamboo and to encourage its sustainable use. Known as the “green gold” of nature, bamboo is one of the fastest-growing plants on Earth and plays a vital role in environmental conservation, livelihoods, and culture.

Origin and History:

World Bamboo Day was officially declared in 2009 during the 8th World Bamboo Congress held in Bangkok, Thailand. The World Bamboo Organisation started this initiative to highlight bamboo’s potential as a renewable resource. Since then, people across the globe—including governments, environmental groups, and communities—have organised events like bamboo planting drives, exhibitions, and educational workshops on this day.

Importance of Bamboo: 

1. Environmental Benefits - Bamboo absorbs more carbon dioxide and releases more oxygen compared to many trees, helping combat climate change. Its dense roots prevent soil erosion and improve soil quality. It grows without the need for chemical fertilisers or pesticides.

2. Economic Uses - Bamboo is used to make furniture, flooring, paper, handicrafts, musical instruments, and even clothing. In some regions, it is a source of food (bamboo shoots) and provides raw material for construction. It supports rural economies by providing jobs to artisans and farmers.

3. Cultural Significance - In countries like India, China, and Japan, bamboo symbolises strength, flexibility, and resilience. It is often used in festivals, rituals, and traditional art forms.

Sustainable Development and Bamboo: 

Bamboo aligns with several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

SDG 13 (Climate Action): Its ability to store carbon helps fight global warming.

SDG 15 (Life on Land): Protects ecosystems by preventing deforestation and soil degradation.

SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth): Provides employment opportunities in eco-friendly industries.

How to Celebrate World Bamboo Day

🌱 Plant Bamboo: Participate in or organise bamboo planting activities.

📚 Spread Awareness: Share facts about bamboo’s benefits at schools, on social media, or in community events.

🛍️ Support Bamboo Products: Choose eco-friendly bamboo alternatives like toothbrushes, utensils, or paper to reduce plastic use.

🎨 Explore Culture: Learn about traditional crafts or art forms that use bamboo.

Fun Facts About Bamboo:

● Bamboo can grow up to 91 cm (35 inches) in a single day under the right conditions!

● There are over 1,600 species of bamboo worldwide.

● It has been used for over 5,000 years in building, paper-making, and art.

Conclusion: 

World Bamboo Day reminds us of bamboo’s incredible versatility and its role in a sustainable future. By protecting bamboo forests and using bamboo wisely, we not only preserve ecosystems but also support livelihoods and cultures worldwide. Celebrating this day is a step toward a greener, healthier planet.

A Journey from a Tea Stall to the Prime Minister’s Office

THE LIFE OF NARENDRA MODI 

Introduction:

Narendra Damodardas Modi, the 14th Prime Minister of India, is one of the most influential leaders of modern times. His life story—rising from a tea seller’s son to the highest elected office in the world’s largest democracy—has become a symbol of determination, discipline, and perseverance.

Birth and Childhood: 

Narendra Modi was born on 17 September 1950 in Vadnagar, a small town in Gujarat, just a few years after India’s independence. He grew up in a lower-middle-class family. His father, Damodardas Mulchand Modi, ran a tea stall near the railway station, and young Narendra often helped him serve tea. His mother, Hiraba Modi (Heeraben), was a homemaker who instilled in him values of hard work and simplicity.

Growing up in modest surroundings taught Modi resilience and self-reliance. Even as a child, he showed an interest in public speaking, debates, and stage performances.

Early Inclinations and Self-Discovery:

From an early age, Modi showed a desire to serve society. At just eight years old, he joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a Hindu nationalist volunteer organisation, which played a pivotal role in shaping his ideology and worldview.

As a teenager, he made a life-changing decision: he left home to travel across India. His journey of self-discovery took him to ashrams and remote corners of the country, where he learned about India’s diverse cultures, challenges, and spiritual traditions. This experience deepened his understanding of the nation and fueled his passion for public service.

The Political Struggle and Rise: 

In the early 1970s, Modi became a full-time pracharak (campaigner) for the RSS. During The Emergency (1975–77)—a period of political crisis in India—he went underground, organising protests and distributing anti-government pamphlets, which showcased his courage and organisational skills.

In 1985, the RSS assigned him to work with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). His abilities quickly earned him recognition. By 1988, he was appointed General Secretary of the BJP’s Gujarat unit, where he strengthened the party’s presence and played a key role in its successes during the 1990s.

His major breakthrough came in 2001, when he was appointed Chief Minister of Gujarat after the state suffered a devastating earthquake. Though his leadership initially faced skepticism, Modi soon proved himself as a strong administrator. He implemented economic reforms, improved infrastructure, and promoted industrial growth, establishing his reputation as a pro-development leader.

The Path to Prime Ministership:

In 2013, Modi was declared the BJP’s prime ministerial candidate for the 2014 general election. His campaign focused on development, good governance, and a “New India”, resonating deeply with the public. The BJP achieved a historic majority, and Modi became the first Prime Minister of India to be born after independence.

In 2019, he was re-elected with an even larger mandate, solidifying his position as one of India’s most dominant political figures.

Prime Ministership and Achievements:

As Prime Minister, Modi has launched several major initiatives and reforms, including:

● Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission) – Encouraging cleanliness and sanitation.

● Digital India – Promoting technology-driven governance and digital access.

● Make in India – Boosting manufacturing and entrepreneurship.

● Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana – Expanding financial inclusion for millions.

● Goods and Services Tax (GST) – Simplifying India’s tax system.

He has also emphasised foreign diplomacy, enhancing India’s global presence through international partnerships and active participation in world forums. Supporters praise his decisive leadership and economic vision, while critics debate some of his policies and their broader impact—highlighting the complexity of his political legacy.

A Leader Who Rose Above Challenges: 

Modi’s journey was never easy. Coming from a humble background without political connections or wealth, he faced skepticism and criticism throughout his career. Yet his discipline, communication skills, and vision for India’s development helped him rise through the ranks. His story continues to inspire millions of Indians who believe in hard work and perseverance as the keys to success.

Conclusion: 

Narendra Modi’s life—beginning at a small tea stall in Vadnagar and reaching the Prime Minister’s Office in New Delhi—is a testament to resilience, determination, and leadership. His journey reflects the possibilities within India’s democracy: that even the humblest beginnings can lead to the highest responsibilities. Whether admired or critiqued, Modi’s rise remains one of the most compelling narratives in India’s political history—a story of grit, vision, and unwavering commitment to his nation.

Story from Panchatantra

THE WEAVER’S SHORTSIGHTED WISH 

In a quiet little village, there lived a poor weaver named Mandharaka. No matter how hard he worked, he barely earned enough to feed his family. One day, burdened by his troubles, he wandered into the nearby forest. There, he unexpectedly met a kind-hearted Yaksha—a celestial being—who offered to grant him a boon.

Mandharaka was overjoyed but unsure what to ask for. Wanting to make the best choice, he hurried home to consult his wife. She thought for a moment and said,

“If you had two heads and four arms, you could weave twice as fast, finish more work, and earn more money. That would solve all our problems!”

Trusting her advice, Mandharaka returned to the Yaksha and made this unusual request. The Yaksha smiled and immediately granted the boon. To Mandharaka’s amazement, he now had two heads and four arms! Feeling proud and excited about the future, he walked back to his village.

But when the villagers saw him, they were terrified. To them, Mandharaka looked like a fearsome demon. Panic spread quickly, and without thinking, they attacked him with sticks and stones. The poor weaver, who had only wished for prosperity, was killed on the spot—destroyed not by enemies, but by his own short-sighted wish.

Moral: Quick fixes and shortsighted decisions may seem promising, but without foresight and wisdom, they can lead to disaster instead of lasting growth.

Do you know

HOW DOES 3D PRINTING WORK?

3D printing, also called additive manufacturing, is a process of creating three-dimensional objects layer by layer from a digital design. Here’s how it works step by step:

🖥 1. Design the Model

A 3D model is created using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software or downloaded from online libraries.

The design file is saved in a format like .STL or .OBJ.

🪡 2. Slicing the Model

The 3D model is imported into slicing software, which cuts the model into thin horizontal layers.

The slicer also generates instructions, called G-code, that tell the printer exactly where and how to move.

🖨 3. Printing the Object

The 3D printer reads the G-code and starts building the object layer by layer.

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), the most common method, melts plastic filament and extrudes it through a heated nozzle. Other methods include:

Stereolithography (SLA): Uses UV light to harden liquid resin.

Selective Laser Sintering (SLS): Uses a laser to fuse powdered material.

🔧 4. Layer-by-Layer Construction

Each layer is deposited or cured on top of the previous one, bonding together until the full shape is formed.

The printer bed or the nozzle may move in the X, Y, and Z directions to achieve the final structure.

✨ 5. Post-Processing

The finished print may need cleaning, curing, sanding, or painting for a smooth and polished look.

📦 Applications of 3D Printing

● Prototyping and Manufacturing: Engineers 

● create prototypes quickly and cheaply.

●Medicine: Prosthetics, implants, and even bio-printing tissues.

●Education and Art: Students and artists bring creative projects to life.

● Construction: Large-scale printers build houses and bridges.

🌱 Advantages

● Customisation of designs.

●Reduced waste compared to traditional manufacturing.

● Faster production for small batches or unique items.