The Cultural Soul of Rajasthan

KALBELIYA 

The Kalbeliya community (also spelled Kalbelia) is a traditional nomadic community of Rajasthan, India. They are best known for their vibrant folk dance and music, which reflect a deep connection with nature—especially snakes. The Kalbeliya people form an important part of Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage and have gained global recognition for preserving their traditional art forms.

The word Kalbeliya (Kalbelia) is closely linked to the traditional occupation and belief system of the community, but its meaning comes more from oral tradition than written etymology.

Meaning of Kalbeliya

The term “Kal” is commonly associated with poison or deadly substance in Indian languages.

“Beliya / Belia” is believed to refer to a container, bowl, or carrier, traditionally used for holding snake venom or snakes.

Kalbeliya therefore roughly means:

“Those associated with poison” or “people who handle poison (snake venom)”.

Cultural Interpretation

The name reflects the community’s historical role as snake handlers and venom experts.

It also connects to their spiritual belief that their ancestors, followers of Guru Kanifnath, possessed special powers to withstand poison.

Origin and Background

The Kalbeliya community originated in the Thar Desert region of Rajasthan. Traditionally, they lived a nomadic life, moving from village to village in search of livelihood. Their identity and lifestyle were closely linked to snakes, which played a central role in their social, cultural, and spiritual practices.

Historical Background of the Kalbeliya Community

The history of the Kalbeliya community is largely preserved through oral traditions passed down from generation to generation. Historically, they are believed to be associated with the Nath sect, an ancient Shaivite spiritual tradition linked to saints such as Guru Gorakhnath and Kanifnath.

According to community belief, their ancestors were followers of Guru Kanifnath, who was believed to possess spiritual powers, including resistance to poison. This belief laid the foundation for the community’s traditional occupation of snake handling and healing.

For centuries, Kalbeliyas served rural society as snake catchers, venom handlers, and healers for snake bites, which were common in desert regions. During the rule of Rajput kings and local rulers, they were allowed to move freely across regions and were compensated with food grains, clothing, or small payments for their services and performances.

During British rule, nomadic communities like the Kalbeliyas faced restrictions and social neglect. Their traditional systems gradually weakened due to changing laws and attitudes.

A major turning point came after Independence with the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, which banned the catching and keeping of snakes. This law ended their centuries-old profession and forced the community to adapt to new livelihoods, marking a significant shift in their history.

Traditional Occupation

For generations, the Kalbeliya people were snake charmers. They caught snakes, handled venom, and possessed traditional knowledge of curing snake bites. This occupation was not only their source of income but also a key part of their cultural identity.

After the ban on snake handling, the community gradually shifted to folk performances, agriculture, animal rearing, and daily wage work, while continuing to preserve their traditional knowledge through music and dance.

Types within the Kalbeliya Community:

The Kalbeliya community is not uniform and includes different clan-based and regional groups. These are not rigid castes but social divisions mainly related to marriage and customs.

Clan-based groups (Gotras):

Common clans include Sapera, Jogiya, Kanifnathi, Nath, and Bawariya. Marriage generally takes place outside one’s own clan.

Occupational distinctions:

Traditionally, some families specialised in snake handling and healing, while others focused on music and dance.

Regional variations:

Kalbeliyas living in regions such as Jaisalmer, Barmer, Jodhpur, Ajmer, and Pali show slight differences in dress, music, and dance styles.

Despite these divisions, the community shares a strong collective identity.

Culture and Oral Traditions

The Kalbeliya community has a rich oral tradition. Their folk songs are not written but memorised and passed down orally. These songs often narrate stories related to:

● Daily life and struggles

● Love and devotion

● Folklore and mythology

● Nature and desert life

Their culture reflects simplicity, resilience, and strong community bonding.

Kalbeliya Dance: A Symbol of Grace

The Kalbeliya dance is the most famous cultural expression of the community. Performed mainly by women, the dance is inspired by the graceful movements of snakes. It involves swift spins, flexible body movements, and rhythmic footwork, making it visually captivating.

Costume and Music: 

Women wear flowing black ghagras decorated with mirror work and colourful embroidery.

Men accompany the dance by playing traditional instruments such as the pungi, been, dholak, and khanjari.

The music is lively, rhythmic, and often improvised.

UNESCO Recognition:

In 2010, the Kalbeliya folk songs and dances of Rajasthan were inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This recognition brought international attention to the community and highlighted the importance of preserving India’s traditional art forms.

A Famous Kalbeliya Dancer:

One of the most renowned Kalbeliya dancers is Gulabo Sapera.

She is an internationally acclaimed artist who played a key role in taking Kalbeliya dance to global platforms. In 2016, she was awarded the Padma Shri for her contribution to folk dance. Beyond performance, she is known for promoting education and empowerment, especially among women of the Kalbeliya community.

Religious Beliefs and Customs:

The Kalbeliya community follows unique customs:

● They traditionally bury their dead instead of cremation.

● Snakes are considered sacred and are worshipped.

● Festivals such as Nag Panchami hold special importance.

Present-Day Challenges: 

Despite global recognition, many Kalbeliya families continue to face challenges such as poverty, limited access to education, and social marginalisation. However, cultural festivals, tourism, and government initiatives have opened new opportunities in education and cultural employment.

Significance of the Kalbeliya Community:

The Kalbeliya community stands as a living example of how traditional knowledge and cultural heritage can survive and adapt in changing times. Their music and dance are not merely entertainment but powerful expressions of identity, history, and harmony with nature.

Did You Know?

● Kalbeliya dance movements are inspired by the movement of snakes.

● The dance is performed at major cultural festivals in India and abroad.

● Kalbeliya women traditionally stitch and decorate their own costumes.

Nature’s Golden Nectar

HONEY 

Honey is a natural sweet substance produced by honeybees using the nectar of flowers. Known for its rich taste, golden colour, and numerous health benefits, honey has been valued by humans since ancient times. It is one of the few foods that is completely natural, nutritious, and long-lasting.

How Is Honey Made?

Honey production is a fascinating natural process. Honeybees collect nectar from flowers and store it in their honey stomachs. Inside the hive, the nectar is passed from bee to bee, where enzymes break down complex sugars into simpler ones. The bees then deposit the liquid into honeycomb cells and fan it with their wings to evaporate excess water. Once the nectar thickens, it becomes honey and is sealed with wax.

Types of Honey

The colour, flavour, and aroma of honey depend on the type of flower nectar used. Some common varieties include:

● Multifloral Honey – made from the nectar of many flowers

● Monofloral Honey – derived mainly from one type of flower

● Forest Honey – collected from wild forest regions

● Manuka Honey – famous for its medicinal properties

Acacia, Mustard, Eucalyptus, and Tulsi Honey

Each type has unique taste and health benefits.

Nutritional Value of Honey

Honey is rich in natural sugars like glucose and fructose, which provide instant energy. It also contains:

● Vitamins such as B-complex and vitamin C

● Minerals like calcium, iron, potassium, and magnesium

● Antioxidants and enzymes

Because of these nutrients, honey is often considered a healthier alternative to refined sugar.

Health Benefits of Honey

Honey has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Some important health benefits include:

● Boosts immunity

● Aids digestion

● Soothes sore throat and cough

● Heals wounds and burns due to its antibacterial properties

● Improves heart health

● Provides quick energy and reduces fatigue

In Ayurveda, honey is considered a natural healer.

Uses of Honey

Honey is widely used in everyday life:

● As a natural sweetener in tea, milk, and desserts

● In baking and cooking

● In Ayurvedic and home remedies

● In cosmetics and skincare products

● In medicinal syrups and ointments

● Honey in History and Culture

Honey has held a special place in many ancient civilisations. Egyptians used it in food, medicine, and even in embalming. In Indian tradition, honey is one of the five sacred ingredients of Panchamrit. It is also mentioned in ancient texts like the Vedas and Charaka Samhita.

Storage and Purity of Honey

Pure honey has a very long shelf life and does not spoil easily. Over time, honey may crystallise, but this does not mean it is spoiled. Warming it gently restores its liquid form. However, care must be taken to avoid adulterated honey available in the market.

Conclusion

Honey is truly nature’s gift to mankind — delicious, nutritious, and medicinal. From improving health to adding sweetness to our lives, honey plays an important role in our diet and culture. Protecting honeybees and promoting sustainable beekeeping is essential to preserve this precious natural resource.

Do You Know?

● Honey never spoils; jars of honey found in ancient Egyptian tombs were still edible.

● A single honeybee produces only about one-twelfth of a teaspoon of honey in its lifetime.

● Honey has natural antibacterial properties that help in wound healing.

Celebrating India’s Timeless Attire

WORLD SAREE DAY 

Every year, 21st December is celebrated as World Saree Day. This special day is dedicated to honouring the saree, one of the oldest and most graceful garments worn by women. More than just a piece of clothing, the saree represents tradition, culture, artistry, and identity.

What is World Saree Day?

World Saree Day is celebrated to promote the wearing of sarees and to revive interest in this traditional Indian attire in modern times. On this day, women from different age groups, professions, and regions proudly drape sarees to express their love for Indian culture.

The celebration encourages people to embrace handloom sarees, support local weavers, and appreciate the diversity of Indian textiles.

Why is the Saree So Special?

The saree is considered one of the oldest surviving garments in the world, with a history dating back over 5,000 years. It is unique because:

● It suits women of all ages and body types

● It can be draped in multiple styles

● It reflects regional identity and craftsmanship

● It combines elegance with comfort

From daily wear to festive occasions, the saree adapts beautifully to every moment of life.

Diversity of Indian Sarees

India is home to a rich variety of sarees, each telling a story of its region:

● Banarasi Sarees – Uttar Pradesh

● Kanchipuram Silk Sarees – Tamil Nadu

● Paithani Sarees – Maharashtra

● Chanderi Sarees – Madhya Pradesh

● Baluchari Sarees – West Bengal

● Sambalpuri Sarees – Odisha

Each saree showcases local traditions, motifs, colours, and weaving techniques passed down through generations.

Importance of World Saree Day

World Saree Day plays a significant role in:

👗 Preserving India’s textile heritage

🧶 Encouraging the use of handloom and sustainable fashion

🤝 Supporting weavers and artisans

🌍 Promoting Indian culture at a global level

👩‍🏫 Inspiring younger generations to value traditional attire

In today’s fast-fashion world, the saree stands as a symbol of slow, sustainable, and meaningful fashion.

Ideas for World Saree Day Celebrations

● Wearing sarees to schools, colleges, and workplaces

● Organising saree walks, exhibitions, and cultural programmes

● Sharing photographs and stories on social media

● Educating students about Indian textiles and handloom traditions; and also about India’s rich clothing heritage.

Do You Know?

🧵 A saree is usually 5 to 9 yards long.

👑 The saree has been worn by women across social classes for centuries.

🌿 Handloom sarees are eco-friendly and biodegradable.

🇮🇳 Many Indian sarees have received GI (Geographical Indication) tags.

Conclusion

World Saree Day is a celebration of grace, heritage, and identity. The saree is not just an outfit—it is a symbol of India’s history, artistry, and womanhood. By wearing and promoting sarees, we honour our weavers, preserve our traditions, and pass on a priceless legacy to future generations.

On this World Saree Day, let us proudly drape a saree and celebrate the timeless elegance of India.

A Fun Fact About Shakespeare’s Time

The Story of the Letter “J”

Did you know that the letter J was not always part of the English alphabet?

In fact, during Shakespeare’s time, people did not use the letter J the way we do today. The alphabet we know now has a long and interesting history!

Life Before the Letter “J”

Long ago, the letters I and J were considered the same letter.

The letter I was used for:

the vowel sound (as in ink), and

the consonant sound that we now write as J (as in jam).

Because of this, many words looked very different from how we write them today. For example:

Juliet was written as Iuliet

Jesus was written as Iesus

John was written as Iohn

To us, these spellings look strange, but at that time, they were perfectly normal.

How Did the Letter “J” Begin?

As handwriting and printing developed, scribes and printers began adding a small tail to the letter I in certain positions. This decorative or “fancy I” slowly developed into the shape we now recognize as J.

However, even though the shape existed, it was still not treated as a separate letter of the alphabet.

Separating I and J

In 1524, an Italian scholar named Gian Giorgio Trissino suggested an important idea:

Use I for the vowel sound

Use J for the consonant sound

This idea spread across Europe, but languages—especially English—were slow to change.

When Did “J” Become a Real Letter?

The change happened gradually:

During the 1600s, some English books began using J regularly.

By the early 1700s, English finally accepted J as a separate letter.

That is how the English alphabet became the 26-letter alphabet we use today.

Did Shakespeare Use the Letter “J”?

William Shakespeare, who died in 1616, lived during this time of change.

He saw the shape J, but it was not yet a fully accepted letter. In his time, I and J were still often mixed together in writing.

Why Is This Important?

The story of the letter J teaches us that:

Language is always changing

Even the alphabet has a history

What seems normal to us today was once very different

The next time you write the letter J, remember—you are using one of the youngest letters in the English alphabet!

Do you know

What is a GI Tag?

India is a land of rich traditions, unique cultures, and region-specific products. From the aroma of Darjeeling Tea to the elegance of Kanchipuram Silk Sarees, many Indian products owe their special identity to the place where they are produced. To protect such uniqueness, the concept of the GI tag was introduced.

What is a GI Tag?

A GI tag, or Geographical Indication tag, is a sign used on products that originate from a specific geographical area and possess distinct qualities, reputation, or characteristics that are essentially linked to that place.

In simple words, a GI tag tells us that:

● The product comes from a particular region

● Its quality or fame is due to that geographical location

● It cannot be authentically produced elsewhere in the same manner

Meaning of Geographical Indication

The term Geographical Indication refers to a name or sign used on goods that corresponds to a specific location. The uniqueness may arise due to:

● Climate

● Soil

● Traditional methods of production

● Skills passed down through generations

Both natural factors and human skills play an important role in defining a GI product.

Examples of GI-Tagged Products in India

India has hundreds of GI-tagged products. Some well-known examples include:

● Darjeeling Tea – West Bengal

● Basmati Rice – Indo-Gangetic Plains

● Alphonso Mango – Maharashtra

● Kanchipuram Silk Sarees – Tamil Nadu

● Kolhapuri Chappals – Maharashtra and Karnataka

● Mysore Sandalwood – Karnataka

Each of these products carries the legacy and culture of its region.

Types of Products Eligible for a GI Tag

GI tags can be given to various categories of goods, such as:

1. Agricultural products – rice, tea, coffee, fruits, spices

2. Handicrafts – textiles, metal crafts, pottery, jewellery

3. Food items – sweets, snacks, traditional dishes

4. Manufactured goods – region-specific tools or products

GI Tag in India: Legal Framework

In India, GI tags are granted under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.

The official GI Registry is located in Chennai.

Once registered, the product receives legal protection against misuse and imitation.

Why is a GI Tag Important?

The GI tag serves multiple purposes:

✔ Protects traditional knowledge and heritage

✔ Prevents misuse and duplication of famous regional names

✔ Ensures quality and authenticity for consumers

✔ Provides economic benefits to local farmers and artisans

✔ Promotes rural development and exports

✔ Enhances India’s cultural identity at the global level

Duration and Renewal of GI Tag

A GI tag is valid for 10 years.

It can be renewed indefinitely as long as the product continues to maintain its unique characteristics.

Do You Know?

🌱 Darjeeling Tea was the first product in India to receive a GI tag in 2004.

🧵 GI tags are not owned by individuals but by communities or associations of producers.

🌍 GI tags are recognised internationally under the TRIPS Agreement of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

Conclusion: The GI tag is much more than a legal label—it is a tool to protect India’s cultural heritage, empower local communities, and preserve traditional skills. By recognising and supporting GI-tagged products, we contribute to the protection of regional identities and sustainable development.

As consumers, being aware of GI tags helps us choose authentic products and appreciate the rich diversity that India offers.

Classification of Food Categories

NOVA 

The NOVA food classification system was developed by researchers at the University of São Paulo, Brazil. It classifies foods based on the extent and purpose of food processing, rather than on nutrients alone. This system is widely used in nutrition education, public health, and research.

Why is it called the NOVA classification?

The term “NOVA” comes from the Portuguese word nova, which means “new.” 

This name was chosen by Brazilian researchers to highlight the “new” way foods are produced and consumed in the modern world, especially the rapid rise of industrially processed and ultra-processed foods.

Key Reasons Behind the Name “NOVA”

1. Focus on new food processing methods

Traditional nutrition systems classified food mainly by nutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, fats).

The NOVA system is new because it classifies food based on how much and why it is processed.

2. Attention to newly developed ultra-processed foods

Many modern foods—like instant noodles, soft drinks, packaged snacks—did not exist earlier.

The NOVA system was created to study the health impact of these new industrial foods.

3. Developed in Brazil (Portuguese language)

Since the system was developed by researchers in Brazil, the Portuguese word “NOVA” was naturally used.

In Simple Words

It is called NOVA because it offers a new perspective on food classification, emphasising modern food processing and its effects on health rather than just nutrients.

The Four NOVA Food Groups

🟢 Group 1: Unprocessed or Minimally Processed Foods

These are natural foods altered very little after harvesting or slaughtering. Processing aims only to preserve or prepare them.

Examples: 

* Fresh fruits and vegetables

* Whole grains (rice, wheat, millets)

* Pulses and legumes

* Milk, curd, plain yogurt

* Eggs, fresh meat, fish

* Nuts and seeds

Purpose of processing: Cleaning, drying, grinding, freezing, boiling

🟡 Group 2: Processed Culinary Ingredients

These are substances extracted from Group 1 foods or from nature and are used in cooking, not eaten alone.

Examples:

* Sugar

* Salt

* Honey

* Butter, ghee

* Vegetable oils

Purpose of processing: Pressing, refining, milling

🟠 Group 3: Processed Foods

These foods are made by adding salt, sugar, or oil to Group 1 foods. They usually have 2–3 ingredients.

Examples:

* Pickles

* Jam and jelly

* Cheese

* Freshly baked bread

* Salted nuts

* Canned fruits and vegetables

Purpose of processing: Preservation, enhancing taste

🔴 Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods

These are industrially formulated products made mostly from substances extracted from foods, with additives. They are ready-to-eat or ready-to-heat.

Examples:

* Soft drinks and packaged juices

* Instant noodles

* Chips, biscuits, cakes

* Chocolates, ice cream

* Fast foods (burgers, pizza)

* Breakfast cereals (sweetened)

Common additives: Flavours, colours, emulsifiers, preservatives

Why is NOVA Classification Important?

● Helps identify unhealthy ultra-processed foods

● Encourages home-cooked, natural diets

● Useful in school health education and nutrition awareness

● Linked to studies on obesity, diabetes, and heart disease

Advantages and Disadvantages of Each NOVA Food Category

The NOVA classification helps us understand food not just by nutrients, but by how processing affects health, society, and lifestyle. Each group has its own benefits and limitations.

🟢 Group 1: Unprocessed or Minimally Processed Foods

Advantages

✔ Rich in natural nutrients like vitamins, minerals, fibre, and antioxidants

✔ Support good digestion and immunity

✔ Lower risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease

✔ Promote traditional diets and local foods

✔ No harmful additives or artificial chemicals

Disadvantages

✘ Short shelf life (fresh fruits, vegetables, milk)

✘ Require time and effort for cleaning and cooking

✘ Seasonal availability may limit access to some foods

🟡 Group 2: Processed Culinary Ingredients

Advantages

✔ Essential for cooking and food preparation

✔ Improve taste, texture, and aroma of meals

✔ Help meet energy needs (oils, ghee, sugar)

✔ Enable home cooking, reducing dependence on packaged foods

Disadvantages

✘ High intake can lead to health problems

Excess salt → high blood pressure

Excess sugar → obesity, diabetes

Excess fats → heart disease

✘ Not meant to be consumed on their own

🟠 Group 3: Processed Foods

Advantages

✔ Longer shelf life than fresh foods

✔ Convenient and easy to store

✔ Usually made with few ingredients

✔ Can still retain some nutritional value

✔ Useful during travel or emergencies

Disadvantages

✘ Often contain high salt or sugar

✘ Regular consumption may reduce intake of fresh foods

✘ May encourage preference for strong flavours

🔴 Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods

Advantages

✔ Very convenient (ready-to-eat or ready-to-heat)

✔ Attractive taste and appearance

✔ Long shelf life

✔ Easily available and affordable

Disadvantages

✘ High in salt, sugar, unhealthy fats

✘ Low in dietary fibre and micronutrients

✘ Contain artificial colours, flavours, preservatives

✘ Increase risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease

✘ Can cause addiction-like eating habits

✘ Replace traditional home-cooked meals

🌱 Overall Message of NOVA

More Group 1 foods → Better health

Use Group 2 ingredients in moderation

Limit Group 3 foods

Avoid frequent consumption of Group 4 foods

✨ Do You Know?

● The NOVA system is used by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in nutrition studies.

● Diets rich in Group 1 foods are associated with better overall health.

● Ultra-processed foods are often high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats.

● The NOVA classification was introduced in 2009 by Brazilian nutrition researcher Carlos A. Monteiro and his team.

● The system helps people understand why some foods are harmful even if they seem nutritious on the label.

● Countries with diets high in ultra-processed foods show higher rates of lifestyle diseases.

● Traditional Indian meals mainly belong to Group 1 and Group 2, making them naturally healthier.

The Temple of Eternal Flames

JWALA JI MANDIR, HIMACHAL PRADESH🔥

Jwala Ji Mandir, also known as Jwalamukhi Temple, is one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites in Himachal Pradesh. Located in the Kangra district, this sacred temple is dedicated to Goddess Jwala Devi, a powerful form of Shakti. What makes this temple truly unique is that the goddess is worshipped not in the form of an idol, but as natural, ever-burning flames emerging from the earth.

Location and Setting: The temple is situated in the town of Jawalamukhi, nestled in the lower Himalayan ranges of the Shivalik Hills. Surrounded by scenic beauty, the temple attracts thousands of devotees throughout the year, especially during festival seasons.

Religious Significance: Jwala Ji Mandir is counted among the 51 Shakti Peethas, sacred sites associated with the legend of Goddess Sati. According to mythology, when Lord Shiva carried Sati’s body across the universe in grief, different parts of her body fell at various places on Earth. It is believed that Sati’s tongue fell at Jwala Ji, making it a highly sacred site.

The name “Jwala” means flame, and “Mukhi” means mouth—together symbolising the mouth of divine fire.

The Miracle of Eternal Flames: Unlike most temples, Jwala Ji Mandir has no idol in its sanctum. Instead, worship is offered to natural flames that continuously burn from cracks in the rock. These flames are considered manifestations of the goddess herself.

Traditionally, nine sacred flames (Nav Jyotis) are worshipped in the temple, each representing different aspects of the Divine Mother, such as Mahakali, Annapurna, Saraswati, Chamunda, Ambika etc.

These flames are believed to have been burning for centuries without interruption, adding to the temple’s mystical aura.

Historical Importance: Jwala Ji Mandir has been mentioned in ancient texts and has been a centre of worship for centuries. Several historical rulers are associated with the temple. Legends narrate that even Mughal emperor Akbar visited the shrine, and despite attempts to extinguish the flames, they continued to burn—reinforcing faith in their divine origin.

The present temple structure reflects a blend of traditional Hindu architecture and regional style.

Festivals and Celebrations

The temple comes alive during Navratri, celebrated twice a year:

● Chaitra Navratri (March–April)

● Sharad Navratri (September–October)

During these periods, large fairs are organised, and devotees from across India gather to seek the blessings of the goddess. Special prayers, aartis, and offerings mark the celebrations.

Do You Know?

● Jwala Ji Mandir is one of the few temples in the world where fire itself is worshipped.

● The flames are believed to burn without any fuel.

● The temple is an important spiritual centre for Shakti worshippers.

● Navratri fairs at Jwala Ji are among the largest religious gatherings in Himachal Pradesh.