It is not possible for the majority of people to renounce the world to pursue the goal of liberation. But, at the same time, they cannot neglect this objective, as the very purpose of human birth is to realise God and thereby put an end to bondage.

Embodiment Of Dharma

The Mahabharata is not just the story of the Pandavas and the Kauravas but a veritable ocean providing insight into the nuances of Dharma and human nature through its myriad characters.

A Dash Of Danish

A Danish painter is setting up an international art centre in Mysore, a city that has a long tradition of nurturing the arts.

Knight On A Shining Peacock!

The Purulia Chhau dancers from the region bordering West Bengal were out of this world.

Man Of Wisdom

It is paradoxical that the majority of human beings fritter away their entire life in pursuit of sensory joys, which are short-lived.

The Eternal Conflict

Amidst the astonishing variety of sentient and non-sentient objects, the Supreme Being has also created evil and good.

Indomitable Faith

It is believed that in Kali Yuga practice of true devotion to God is a sure path to attain salvation. Great saints steeped in devotion have not merely made a strong impact on the lives of people around them during their lifetime.

History With Oodles Of Spice

John Keay says his book is more than just a history of trade Two hundred shiploads of pepper and other spices went from the Malabar coast to Europe through Egypt every year The rest of Europe discovered spices from Greece and Rome.

Ride On A ‘Tonga’ To See Heritage Sites

The Dasara Committee had asked the tongawallahs to bring more tongas into service in a more systematic manner so that Mysore could be showcased as the ‘Heritage City’. 

Heritage Map Of Srinagar Launched

Second Indian city with a documented map on heritage structures.

The World, A Snare

God realisation is an overwhelming, transcendental experience that goes beyond what can be grasped through reason, senses and intellect. 

Remains Of Ancient Temple Found

Dating back to the late Sangam period, it was discovered by ASI archaeologists.

The Ultimate Knowledge

The theme of sex in song and story and folklore in almost all cultures and civilisations testifies of its irresistible appeal, though how one uses one’s insight or vision — or one’s outlook — in regard to sex depends considerably upon the way one’s .... 

Shrine Ensconced By Scenic Beauty

At the point where Tungabhadra turns northward exists the cave temple of Kodandarama,surrounded by nature. Kamala Vasudevan describes the architecture of the shrine. 

Where Shiva & Vishnu Reside

The Nagareswara temple in Vijayapura houses Shiva and Vishnu shrines - both in perfect harmony. U B Githa and Mahesh Jambulingam delve into the splendour of the temple’s Mysore style architecture. 

Divine Grace

The Pancharatra Agama speaks of five forms of Lord Narayana. The first and foremost of them is the form "Para", as he presents Himself in Srivaikuntam. 

British Foreign Office Plotted To Kill Netaji In 1941, Says Historian

The British Foreign Office had ordered the assassination of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose in March 1941 during his great escape from India and reconfirmed the order in June 1941.

The Divine Name

The songs (Abhangs) of the saints of Maharashtra are known for their emphasis on devotion. 

The Benefits Of Zen

The word Zen is the Japanese term for the Chinese ‘chan’ which means ‘dhyana’ in Sanskrit. Of the various schools of Buddhism, Zen Buddhism is noted for the quickest achievement of supreme reality. 

All You Need Is The Will To Succeed

DEEPA BALAKRISHNAN lauds the efforts of the all women yakshagana troupe, who have proved that where there is a will there is success. 

Every I-Day, I Cry With Pain’

Her voice is choked and her eyes are streaming with tears that just wouldn’t stop. A pause, a silence, pregnant with the memories that today completed 58 years, along with the one of Independence. 

Dharma Wins Finally

The Mahabharata enjoys a unique status among the scriptural texts. It is longer than the Puranas Vyasa wrote.

Goddess Of Fine Things

When we were kids, for us Varamahalakshmi was someone who brought with her a bounty of holidays, pure ghee sweets and gifts that we carefully preserved. 

Nature Of The Reality

The Narayaneeyam of Narayana Bhattatiri is revered in tradition as the very essence of the Bhagavata Purana. 

Bangalore Art Festival To Be A Bigger Show This Time

With a few more weeks to go, Bangalore Art Festival 2005, is getting ready to be a bigger show with a wider audience. Mantram Art Foundation in association with like-minded organisations is out to provide a bigger cultural experience. 

Sculpture Picnic

Doddagaddavalli may not sound inviting for picnickers and weekend pleasure seekers in the first instant. 

The Master's Strokes

A week-long retrospective begins tomorrow on the works of the late G.S. Shenoy, one of the finest artists of the State.

Facelift For The Caves

The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) is now on a mission to conserve the picturesque Ajanta and Ellora, the greatest tourism destinations of the State. 

Digest On Dharma

The scriptures never tire of emphasising the importance of upholding Dharma (righteousness) in life. Dharma is the very basis of the universe and hence an individual can enjoy peace of mind only when he does not swerve from Dharma. 

Preserving Voices From The Past

SHRUBA MUKHERJEE writes about the National Mission for Manuscripts which has taken upon itself the task of preserving and documenting rare, though neglected, manuscripts that would otherwise be lost forever. 

Krishna: Cameo Hero Of The Yakshagana

Although not the ‘hero’ in any of the productions, some theories believe that Yakshagana theatre owes its origin to the concept of Krishna, says G S Bhat. 

Digging For Treasure

The Siva heptad in Parel, Mumbai, is a little known masterpiece of artistry. Usha Kris investigates the meaning of and history behind the figure. 

Work Is Worship

Self - taught artist Shan Bhatnagar's work reflects an unconditional surrender to mood, form and colour. A comment on his exhibition, held recently at the Alliance Francaise Gallery, Delhi.