Karnataka’s Timeless Sanskrit Village

MATTUR 

Nestled on the banks of the Tunga River in Karnataka’s Shivamogga district lies a small yet extraordinary village—Mattur (also spelled Mathur). Unlike any other place in India, Mattur has earned a unique distinction: it is India’s only Sanskrit-speaking village, where daily conversations, school lessons, and even street signs reflect the rhythm of an ancient language.

A Living Legacy of Sanskrit: While Sanskrit is often associated with sacred texts, ancient literature, and rituals, in Mattur, it is a living, spoken language. The residents, regardless of age, speak Sanskrit in their day-to-day interactions. Children learn it from an early age, and schools in the village emphasize Sanskrit as a medium of instruction alongside Kannada and English.

This revival of spoken Sanskrit is not merely ceremonial—it is part of a deliberate cultural preservation effort that began in the 1980s. With the guidance of Sanskrit scholars and support from spiritual organisations, the villagers committed to rejuvenating a language that is considered the root of many Indian languages and a treasure trove of knowledge.

A Village Rooted in Tradition and Modernity: Mattur is primarily inhabited by Sanketi Brahmins, a community known for its traditional Vedic scholarship. Despite this deep cultural conservatism, the village is far from frozen in time. It seamlessly blends Vedic learning with modern education. Many of Mattur’s youth are well-versed in computer science, engineering, and other modern disciplines. In fact, the village boasts a high literacy rate and has produced a significant number of professionals working in India and abroad.

Yet, no matter where they go, the villagers maintain a strong connection to their roots. Sanskrit remains a binding thread, and many alumni return to contribute to local education and cultural events.

Education: The Heart of the Revival

At the centre of Mattur’s Sanskrit revival is the Sri Sharada Vilasa Pathashala, a traditional school that offers training in the Vedas, Sanskrit grammar, and classical texts. Students from across India come here to immerse themselves in the ancient language.

Additionally, local schools incorporate spoken Sanskrit classes and encourage children to use the language in daily communication, prayers, and performances.

Sanskrit in Everyday Life: What makes Mattur truly remarkable is how organic the use of Sanskrit has become. You’ll hear phrases like “katham asti?” (How are you?) or “bhavān katham gacchati?” (Where are you going?) as naturally as you’d hear Kannada or Hindi elsewhere.

Street signs, nameplates, and shop boards are written in Sanskrit. Even graffiti and casual wall art feature Sanskrit shlokas (verses) and messages.

A Model for Cultural Revival: Mattur has often been highlighted in documentaries, news features, and academic research as a model for cultural and linguistic revival. It stands as proof that ancient languages need not be relegated to the past. With community support and dedicated education, even a "dead language" can thrive in the modern world.

A Timeless Inspiration: In an age where languages and traditions are vanishing rapidly, Mattur offers a rare example of continuity, commitment, and cultural pride. It's not just a Sanskrit-speaking village—it’s a testament to India's linguistic diversity and its enduring capacity to keep heritage alive through living practice.

As one walks through Mattur, listening to the melodic cadence of spoken Sanskrit echoing from homes, schools, and temples, it becomes clear: this is not merely a village—it's a living museum of India’s spiritual and linguistic heritage.

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WHY IS @ IMPORTANT IN AN EMAIL ADDRESS?

The @ symbol is essential in an email address because it separates the user's name from the domain name, clearly identifying both who the message is for and where it should be sent.

Here's what it does:

Format of an email address:

username@domain.com

Before the @ → the username (or local part): This identifies the individual or mailbox (e.g., jane.doe).

After the @ → the domain name: This tells the email system which server or service to send the message to (e.g., gmail.com, yahoo.co.uk).

Why it's important:

1. Routing the email:

The @ helps mail servers know where to deliver the message. The domain (after the @) tells the system which server to contact. Without it, the message would have nowhere to go.

2. Standards and protocols:

Email systems are based on protocols like SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol), which rely on the @ symbol as part of the standard format defined in technical specifications (like RFC 5322).

3. Human readability:

The @ is easy to read and understand—it literally means "at". For example, jane@company.com is read as "Jane at company dot com".

Fun fact:

The use of @ in email addresses was introduced by Ray Tomlinson in 1971, when he created the first networked email system. He chose @ because it wasn’t commonly used in usernames and logically represented being at a location (server/domain).

The Sacred City of Faith, History, and Heritage

AYODHYA 

Introduction: Ayodhya, located in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, is one of the oldest and most revered cities in India. Steeped in history, mythology, and spiritual significance, Ayodhya holds a central place in the cultural and religious landscape of the country. It is best known as the birthplace of Lord Rama, the hero of the Hindu epic Ramayana, and has long been a pilgrimage site for millions of devotees.

Historical Background: The origins of Ayodhya can be traced back to ancient times. Known in ancient texts as Saketa, Ayodhya finds mention in early Buddhist and Jain literature as well as in Hindu scriptures. According to the Ramayana, it was the capital of the Ikshvaku dynasty, ruled by King Dasharatha, Lord Rama's father. The name "Ayodhya" means “unconquerable” in Sanskrit, signifying its sacred and inviolable status.

Over the centuries, Ayodhya has seen the rise and fall of many dynasties, including the Mauryas, Guptas, Mughals, and later the British. Each era has left behind layers of cultural and architectural heritage, shaping Ayodhya into a mosaic of India’s diverse history.

Religious Significance: Ayodhya holds deep spiritual meaning for Hindus as the janmabhoomi (birthplace) of Lord Rama. The Ramayana, written by sage Valmiki, immortalized the city's status, describing it as an ideal kingdom known for justice, prosperity, and peace.

For Jains, Ayodhya is equally sacred, as it is believed to be the birthplace of five Tirthankaras, including the first Tirthankara, Rishabhanatha. Buddhists, too, revere Ayodhya, which finds mention in Buddhist texts as an important center of learning and pilgrimage.

The Ram Janmabhoomi Movement and Temple Construction: Ayodhya came into the spotlight in modern times due to the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute, a complex socio-political and legal issue that spanned decades. At the center of the dispute was the claim that the Babri Masjid, built in the 16th century by Mughal emperor Babur, stood on the site of an ancient Hindu temple marking Lord Rama’s birthplace.

The mosque was demolished in 1992, leading to widespread communal tensions. After years of legal proceedings, the Supreme Court of India, in a landmark judgment in November 2019, ruled in favor of constructing a Ram temple at the disputed site. The court also ordered the allocation of alternate land for the construction of a mosque.

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir is currently under construction and is expected to be a grand symbol of faith, with intricate carvings and traditional Nagara-style architecture. The temple is being built with donations from millions of devotees around the world and is seen as a monumental chapter in the religious and cultural history of India.

Tourism and Pilgrimage: Today, Ayodhya attracts pilgrims, tourists, and scholars from all over the world. Some of the major places of interest include:

Ram Janmabhoomi – the focal point of devotion and now the site of the new temple.

Hanuman Garhi – a 10th-century temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman.

Kanak Bhawan – a temple believed to be gifted to Sita by Kaikeyi.

Nageshwarnath Temple – said to have been founded by Kush, the son of Rama.

Guptar Ghat – a sacred spot associated with the last moments of Lord Rama on Earth.

The city also hosts grand celebrations during Ram Navami (Rama’s birthday) and Diwali, which marks Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. These festivals see Ayodhya transformed into a city of lights and devotion, with lakhs of oil lamps (diyas) lighting up the riverbanks and temples.

Ayodhya in the Modern Era: In recent years, Ayodhya has seen rapid infrastructural development aimed at improving connectivity and tourism. The government has announced plans for Ayodhya International Airport, enhanced road and rail networks, and improved urban amenities.

The vision is to develop Ayodhya into a global spiritual tourism destination while preserving its ancient heritage and sacred atmosphere.

Conclusion: Ayodhya is more than just a city — it is a symbol of India's spiritual heart, historical depth, and cultural unity. Its journey from myth to modernity continues to shape the identity of millions. As it prepares to unveil the grand Ram Temple to the world, Ayodhya stands not only as a site of faith and devotion but also as a beacon of India’s civilizational legacy.

The Indian Style of Greeting

Namaste

India, a land known for its deep-rooted traditions and rich cultural heritage, offers the world many beautiful customs, and one of the most iconic among them is the traditional greeting — Namaste. More than just a form of saying hello, Namaste is a gesture filled with respect, humility, and spiritual significance.

What Does Namaste Mean?

The word "Namaste" comes from Sanskrit, where: Namaḥ means bow, obeisance, or salutation

Te means to you.

So, Namaste literally translates to "I bow to you." It is not just a verbal greeting but a respectful acknowledgment of the divinity in another person. A deeper spiritual interpretation of Namaste is:

"The divine in me honours the divine in you."

How is Namaste Performed?

Namaste is typically performed by:

1. Pressing both palms together, fingers pointing upwards, in front of the chest — a gesture known as Anjali Mudra.

2. Slightly bowing the head.

This simple but profound gesture is used in both formal and informal settings — from greeting elders and teachers to welcoming guests or beginning a yoga session.

Cultural and Spiritual Significance

Namaste is more than a greeting; it is a way of life in Indian culture. It reflects values such as:

Respect for others, regardless of age, status, or background.

Humility and gratitude, by bowing in front of others.

Spiritual connection, acknowledging that all living beings carry the divine essence.

In many Indian households and temples, Namaste is a common way to greet and show reverence to deities, elders, and visitors alike.

Namaste in Modern Times

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Namaste gained international attention as a contactless greeting that maintained social distancing without losing the warmth of a traditional welcome. Leaders and celebrities around the world adopted it as a safer and more respectful way of greeting others.

Moreover, as yoga and mindfulness practices have spread globally, Namaste has become a familiar term in wellness communities, often used at the end of yoga sessions to express gratitude and inner peace.

Global Recognition: 

Namaste has transcended cultural boundaries and is now recognised worldwide as a symbol of peace, respect, and harmony. It reminds us that true connection lies not just in physical contact, but in acknowledging each other with kindness and honour.

Conclusion: Namaste is a timeless Indian greeting that encapsulates centuries of tradition, spiritual insight, and human connection. In just one word and one gesture, it conveys respect, peace, and the understanding that we are all connected at a deeper level. In today’s fast-paced and divided world, embracing such meaningful traditions can help bring us closer — one respectful greeting at a time.

Namaste.

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HOW HOLLYWOOD GOT ITS NAME 

When we hear the word Hollywood, we immediately think of glittering stars, glamorous movies, and the heart of the world’s film industry. But long before it became the centre of cinema, Hollywood was just a quiet stretch of land in California with farms and orange groves. The story of how it got its name is both charming and fascinating.

A peaceful beginning: In 1887, a real estate developer named Harvey Henderson Wilcox and his wife Daeida Wilcox bought land near Los Angeles. Their dream was to create a calm and pleasant residential community, far from the noise of the growing city.

How the name was chosen: The credit for the name “Hollywood” goes to Daeida Wilcox. During a train journey, she met a woman who mentioned her summer home near Chicago, which was called Hollywood. Daeida found the name graceful and musical. She liked the idea so much that she decided to give their new settlement the same name.

According to some, Daeida said that “holly” represented a type of plant known for its beauty, and “wood” symbolised a peaceful forest — together meaning “a beautiful place among the holly trees.”

From farms to films: The name Hollywood officially appeared on a map in 1887, marking the start of a small town that would later make history. In the early 1900s, filmmakers began moving to the area because of its sunny weather and variety of landscapes. Soon, the peaceful farmland turned into a bustling centre for movie-making.

A name known around the world: Over the years, Hollywood became a symbol of dreams, creativity, and fame. What started as a quiet residential idea by the Wilcoxes became the shining heart of the global entertainment industry.

Conclusion: The name Hollywood carries with it a story of inspiration and transformation. Chosen for its beauty and charm, it went on to represent the magic of cinema and the spirit of imagination that continues to inspire people around the world.

Did You Know?

● The famous Hollywood Sign originally read “Hollywoodland” when it was built in 1923 to advertise a housing project.

● The last four letters — “land” — were removed in 1949, leaving the iconic word Hollywood we see today.

● Hollywood became part of Los Angeles in 1910, paving the way for its rise as the world’s movie capital.

Nourishing the World Together

WORLD FOOD DAY 

Every year on 16th October, people across the world observe World Food Day to mark the founding of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations in 1945. This special day reminds us of the importance of food, the need to end hunger, and the value of sustainable farming and nutrition.

Why World Food Day is celebrated: World Food Day was established to promote global awareness about hunger and to encourage actions that ensure food security for everyone. Despite the progress made in food production, millions of people still go to bed hungry each night. The day inspires individuals, communities, and nations to work together so that no one is left hungry.

Themes and Global Message: Each year, World Food Day focuses on a new theme related to agriculture, health, or sustainability. Themes have included topics such as “Grow, Nourish, Sustain. Together,” and “Leave No One Behind.” These messages remind us that solving world hunger is not just about growing more food, but also about producing it responsibly and sharing it fairly.

The theme for World Food Day 2025 is:

“Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future.” 

This theme calls for global collaboration — governments, organisations, communities, and individuals working together — to build a more sustainable, prosperous, and food-secure future. 

How it is observed:- 

Across the world, governments, schools, and organisations hold events such as:

● Food exhibitions and awareness rallies

● Debates and essay competitions for students

● Tree planting and community kitchen initiatives

● Campaigns promoting healthy eating and reducing food waste

These activities encourage people to think about where their food comes from and how they can contribute to a hunger-free world.

A call to action: World Food Day is not only a celebration but also a call to action. It reminds us that everyone has a role to play — whether by avoiding food waste, supporting local farmers, or helping those in need.

Conclusion: Food is a basic human right, and World Food Day teaches us to value it. By working together — farmers, scientists, governments, and citizens — we can build a world where everyone has access to safe, nutritious, and sufficient food.

Did You Know?

● The FAO headquarters is in Rome, Italy.

● Over 150 countries celebrate World Food Day each year.

● The day also coincides with the founding of FAO, which plays a key role in fighting global hunger.

The Fast-Paced Game of Skill and Stamina

SQUASH 

Squash is one of the fastest indoor racket sports in the world, demanding agility, strategy, and lightning-quick reflexes. Played within a four-walled court, it is a thrilling test of both physical fitness and mental sharpness.

Origin and History: The game of squash originated in the early 19th century at Harrow School in England. It evolved from an older game called rackets, where players hit a ball against walls. Students noticed that a punctured ball, which “squashed” when it hit the wall, offered a more challenging and exciting game—thus the name squash was born.

Over time, the sport spread to other countries, and by the 20th century, squash courts were being built across Europe, North America, Asia, and the Middle East. Today, it is played in over 185 countries.

The Court and Equipment: A squash court is a rectangular, four-walled room with a wooden floor and marked boundaries.

The front wall has service lines and a lower “tin” area (similar to a net in tennis).

Players use a lightweight racket, slightly smaller than a tennis racket.

The ball is small, hollow, and made of rubber — it comes in different types based on speed and bounce (indicated by coloured dots).

Rules of the Game:

● Squash is played either singles (one-on-one) or doubles (two teams of two).

● The players take turns hitting the ball against the front wall, ensuring it lands above the tin and below the outline.

● The ball can bounce once on the floor before being returned.

● A rally continues until one player fails to make a valid return.

● Matches are usually played to the best of five games, and each game is played to 11 points.

● Scoring is based on the Point-a-Rally (PAR) system, where every rally results in a point, regardless of who serves.

Skills and Fitness: Squash is known for its intensity. A top-level match can burn up to 1000 calories per hour!

It helps improve: speed and endurance, hand-eye coordination, flexibility and balance, strategic thinking

Players must anticipate their opponent’s moves and control the game’s pace through clever shot placement.

Major Tournaments and Players: 

Some of the most prestigious squash events include:

The British Open

The PSA World Championships

The U.S. Open

The Egyptian Open

Countries like Egypt, England, Pakistan, and Malaysia have produced many world champions such as Jahangir Khan, Jansher Khan, Nicol David, and Ali Farag.

Squash in India: Squash has gained popularity in India in recent years. Indian players like Saurav Ghosal, Joshna Chinappa, and Dipika Pallikal Karthik have achieved international success.

Several schools and clubs now offer squash facilities, and the Squash Rackets Federation of India (SRFI) promotes the game actively across the country.

Did You Know?

● Squash was once voted the world’s healthiest sport by Forbes magazine because it provides an all-round workout.

● The ball’s bounce changes with temperature — players often warm it up before starting!

● The word “let” is used when a rally is replayed due to accidental interference between players.

Conclusion: Squash is much more than just hitting a ball against a wall — it’s a fast, strategic, and fitness-oriented sport that sharpens both body and mind. Whether played for recreation or competition, it teaches focus, discipline, and sportsmanship. With growing awareness and facilities, squash is steadily finding its place among the popular games of the modern world.