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Archaeologists discover first Christian Building in Bahrain

The findings suggest the building may have been the residence of the bishop of the diocese, which included Samahij….reports Asian Lite News

Bahraini and British archaeologists have unearthed what is believed to be one of the oldest Christian structures in the Arabian Gulf, bAhrain News Agency (BNA) reported on Saturday.

Located in Samahij, Muharraq, Kingdom of Bahrain, the discovery provides the first material evidence of this ancient community. While Christianity is not predominantly associated with the Gulf states today, the Church of the East, also known as the Nestorian Church, flourished in the region for centuries until the 7th century CE, coinciding with the widespread Islam amongst the communities in 610 CE.

Radiocarbon dating of the Samahij site confirms the building was occupied between the mid-4th and mid-8th centuries CE, likely abandoned as Islam spread among the local population.

The excavation project, a collaborative effort between the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities and a British team led by Professor Timothy Insoll of the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies at Exeter University, UK, and Dr. Salman Al Mahari of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, began in 2019 and culminated in these significant findings in 2023.

The findings suggest the building may have been the residence of the bishop of the diocese, which included Samahij. Historical sources refer to this area as “Mishmahig” or “Mashmahig,” likely variations of “Samahij.”

Records also indicate a connection between the region and central church authorities, with one bishop dismissed in 410 CE and another condemned for challenging church unity in the mid-7th century.

This discovery is unique due to its location in the heart of a modern, densely populated town, unlike previous Christian structures found in remote areas along the Gulf coast.

Notable finds include three plaster crosses, two adorning the building’s exterior and one possibly kept as a personal memento, along with wall carvings featuring a fish symbol and part of the “Chi Rho” symbol (representing the word Christ).

Dr. Salman Al Mahari, explained that the excavation is in its final stages, and emphasised the site’s importance for Bahraini history, providing valuable insights into the Christian presence in the region.

Initial studies suggested the site dated from the 6th to 8th centuries CE, but radiocarbon dating confirmed a 4th-century origin, making it one of the oldest Christian buildings in the Arabian Gulf. Recent findings include a clear Eastern cross on a plaster slab.

The excavation also revealed details about the building and its inhabitants’ lives. Constructed with stone walls coated in plaster and plaster floors, the building featured sockets and holes indicating door and seat placements. The kitchen contained built-in ovens with bases and storage areas. Artifacts suggest the inhabitants enjoyed a good standard of living, consuming meat, fish, shellfish, and various crops. The discovery of semi-precious agate beads and broken Indian pottery indicates the occupants were involved in trade, particularly with India. Small drinking glasses and 12 copper coins suggest the use of Sasanian Empire currency. Additionally, spindle whorls and copper needles hint at the possibility of cloth production for religious purposes.

Professor Tim Insoll emphasised the importance of the recent discoveries, stating, “We stress the importance of this site and the need to preserve it, highlighting its historical and archaeological value.” He added, “We were amused to find someone had drawn part of a face on a pearl shell using bitumen, possibly for a child who lived in the building. This is the first physical evidence of the Nestorian Church in Bahrain, providing a fascinating insight into how people lived, worked, and worshiped.”

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Culture India News

Tiger Claw used by Shivaji to kill Afzal Khan to arrive in India

Sudhir Mungantiwar said that the ‘Wagh Nakh’ will be kept at a museum so that people can get a chance to witness it…reports Asian Lite News

The ‘Wagh Nakh’ (Tiger Claw) used by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to kill Mughal General Afzal Khan will be arriving in India from London’s Victoria and Albert Museum on Friday, July 19 for a period of three years, as per Maharashtra Minister of Culture Sudhir Mungantiwar.

The Tiger Claw will be kept at the Shivaji Museum in Satara in a grand ceremony that will be presided over by Maharastra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on the same day.

Last year, in October, Maharashtra Ministers Sudhir Mungantiwar and Uday Samant signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with London’s Victoria and Albert Museum to bring back Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s ‘Wagh Nakh’ to India for a period of three years.

Sudhir Mungantiwar said that the ‘Wagh Nakh’ will be kept at a museum so that people can get a chance to witness it.

Speaking to reporters, Sudhir Mungantiwar said, “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, with all his wisdom, killed Afzal Khan with the help of ‘Wagh Nakh’. We are celebrating 350 years since the coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. A lot of programmes will be held in Maharashtra. We will be giving a chance to the people to witness the ‘Wagh Nakh’ by displaying it in the museum.”

“As per the MoU, we will not be able to take Wagh Nakh in all the districts of Maharashtra, which we had earlier thought; instead, we will keep Wagh Nakh at a particular spot where all the people will be able to visit,” he added.

ALSO READ-Chhatrapati Shivaji’s ‘Tiger Claw’ to be Displayed in Indian Museum

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Culture Lite Blogs Sharjah

Sharjah’s Mleiha Exhibition Opens in Japan

Sheikha Bodour also emphasised that Mleiha, and its rich cultural heritage, are an integral part of Arab identity and that this exhibition will showcase the profound impact of Arab civilisation on the world, enhancing it as a source of inspiration for future generations…reports Asian Lite News

Under the patronage of H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and in the presence of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), the Sharjah Archaeology Authority (SAA) inaugurated the ‘Mleiha: An Arabian Kingdom on the Silk Road’ exhibition at the Miho Museum in Japan, which is being held from 6th July to 15th December 2024.

The exhibition is part of the SAA’s efforts to enhance global awareness of Sharjah’s and the UAE’s cultural and civilisational heritage and aims to shed light on the rich history and significant role of Mleiha as a crucial hub on the Silk Road.

The exhibition was inaugurated in the presence of Eisa Yousif, Director General of the Sharjah Archaeology Authority (SAA); Professor Isao Kumakura, Director of the Miho Museum; Yukiko Koyama, Head of the Miho Museum Office; Shehab Ahmed Al Fahim, UAE Ambassador to Japan; Dr. Mohammed bin Saeed Al Busaidi, Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to Japan; Hiroki Iwanaga, Mayor of Koka City; Marwan Ahmed Alnaqbi, the Deputy Chief of Mission, and a host of prominent and diplomatic figures in the fields of culture and archaeology. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi expressed Sharjah’s gratitude for this cultural cooperation with Japan and affirmed that the organisation of such events by the SAA strengthens international relations, helping to build cultural bridges between nations while documenting the historical ties that unite us.

Sheikha Bodour also emphasised that Mleiha, and its rich cultural heritage, are an integral part of Arab identity and that this exhibition will showcase the profound impact of Arab civilisation on the world, enhancing it as a source of inspiration for future generations.

Eisa Yousif explained that this exhibition is part of Sharjah’s comprehensive cultural strategy focussing on, investing in, and sustaining culture and knowledge while enhancing national identity by highlighting the cultural heritage of the UAE and the Emirate of Sharjah on the international stage and museums.

He added that the organisation of this global exhibition – part of a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing cultural and archaeological tourism in Sharjah and the UAE – confirms Mleiha’s role in the story of human history. He added that as one of the most significant historical sites in the Arabian Peninsula, Mleiha is a rich source of identity and national pride.

He praised the collaboration with the Miho Museum – a partnership which reflects the strength of cultural relations between the two countries and enhances Sharjah’s vision as a cultural hub that attracts those interested in cultural heritage from all over the world.

The exhibition includes descriptions of more than 160 artifacts, of which 40 pieces are considered national treasures, and 49 pieces representing important cultural properties. Additionally, it features some recent discoveries being displayed for the first time to the Japanese public, illustrating the various aspects of life in the Kingdom of Mleiha.

The exhibition provides a detailed analysis of Mleiha’s central role in global trade, particularly the Silk Road, which connected the East and the West. It demonstrates peaceful coexistence in the region, with the displayed artifacts serving as living testimonies to cultural and commercial exchange.

The exhibition covers several themes including Crossroads of the Orient: Origins of Arabian Culture, The Mleiha Period: Mleiha and Dibba Al-Hisn Sites, Blessings of Nature: Plants and Animals World, Daily Life, and Coinage, in addition to Trade, Cultural Exchange, World of Gods, Religious Beliefs, and Standards of Beauty. On the sidelines of the exhibition inauguration, representatives from the Sharjah Archaeology Authority also undertook a comprehensive tour of the Miho Museum which has exhibits including Ancient Art from Egypt, Mesopotamia, Iran, Afghanistan, China, Japan – a collection of antiquities from some of the most famous museums in the world. Further, they also visited Misono, the headquarters of the Shinji Shumeikai, and the Shumei Natural Agriculture farming (traditional house), in addition to a visit to several UNESCO World Heritage sites including the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), which combines three styles of Japanese architecture.

In 2022 the SAA and Miho Museum collaborated on an exhibition entitled ‘Connecting Civilisations: From Ancient Central Asia to East Asia’ as part of the Authority’s ongoing local and international archaeological exhibitions programme. The exhibition included a collection of rare archaeological discoveries, significantly including copper coins dating back to the early Silk Road period. These artefacts highlight the critical role of key regions in the Arabian Peninsula in establishing firm economic and cultural bridges, commercial activity and knowledge exchange between Asian peoples, the Arabian Peninsula, and Europe, in periods dating back to before the Common Era.

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-Top News Culture UK News

Sikh-Muslim Tensions in the Europe’s Diasporic Communities


Qualitative interviews with Sikhs in the UK, US, and Canada reveal the challenges of “forced” conversions faced by the community…reports Asian Lite News

Concerns over ‘forced’ conversions initiated by predatory Muslim males, who ‘groom’ Sikh ‘girls’ into converting to Islam against their will, have resurfaced in Europe, especially in Britain. This pattern first emerged in late 1980s and early 1990s and has been occurring since then, within the Sikh-Muslim social fabric in the West.

In Britain several cases have demonstrated how Muslim men are deliberately deceiving and tricking vulnerable Sikh females into Islam. While the “Kaur to Khan” project might sound  sensational, it is a prominent source of anxiety within the Sikh diasporic community.

Empirical data generated by a series of qualitative interviews with Sikhs in the UK, US, and Canada, captures the challenges faced by the community by these  “forced” conversions. Sikh elders have concerns over the preservation of community along with wider anxieties around interfaith marriage.

Muslim men have allegedly been disguising themselves as Sikhs as a way to lure in vulnerable girls from the Sikh community. Younger Muslims are known to target Sikh girls on university campuses across Britain; even going so far as to donning Sikh religious symbols like the Kara (a steel or cast iron bangle worn by male Sikhs) or and even drinking to fool the girls into thinking that he is Indian/Sikh. Once a relationship (often sexual) is established, it is purported that the Muslim man reveals his true identity and forces the Sikh girl to convert by blackmailing her with indecent pictures, thus leaving the girl at risk of “shaming” her family. In most cases the girl is then beaten up or taken to Pakistan to work as a prostitute; no one knows of her whereabouts. Although various modifications to this pattern have appeared, the threat of Muslim men luring and converting Sikh women is well established.

The disguise, the phases of entrapment and the ‘grooming’ process combine to construct the specific agenda in practice by Muslims in their ‘mission’ to convert Sikh ‘girls.

According to Marie Macey, of the University of Bradford, “In recent years, the organisation of religious and political extremism has taken place both on and off educational premises. This presentation of political ideology under the guise of religious orthodoxy attempts to recruit and mobilise young men to become perpetrators of violence. For example, leaflets circulated in Bradford exhorting young Muslim men to rape Sikh women and murder homosexuals are traceable to extremist Islamic organisations operating across the UK,…”  (Class, Gender and Religious Influences on Changing Patterns of Pakistani Muslim Male Violence in Bradford, 1999).

In some instances the Sikh girls are not just converted but also radicalised to such an extent that they become willing participants in radical Islamic movements. In 2018 the case of 18-year-old British-Sikh girl Sandeep Samra, who converted to Islam and tried to travel to Syria and join the Islamic State terror network made headlines.

In fear the Sikh communities in Britain have resorted to awareness campaigns about Muslim men threatening the future of Sikh communities by exerting control over Sikh women. These include  disseminating “warning” leaflets to the Sikh community, awareness talks and film screenings on university campuses and at gurdwaras and television documentaries of Sikh victims telling their stories.

NRI Sikhs and nd members of the Sikh Council of UK, an organisation involved in religious, social and cultural matters related to Sikhism, have from time to time brought to the notice of the Akal Takht has taken a serious view of reports of Sikh girls falling victim to ‘love jihad’ an act that involves ‘charming’ Pakistani youths attempting to impress, marry and convert non-Muslim girls to Islam.  The reports also referred to these girls being exploited in various ways by their husbands and in-laws. Some of these girls were later dumped by their husbands in Pakistan, where the in-laws have been using them as domestic help. “The Sikh Council has rescued some of the victims (girls) and brought them back to their parents,” the Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Gurbachan Singh said. When asked how many such cases existed in the UK or England, he replied, “There could be hundreds.”

Recently on 22 February, 2024 a Sikh woman of Indian origin from Germany married a Pakistani man. After exchanging vows with Ali Arsalan, Jaspreet Kaur was converted to Islam and is now known as Zainab,as confirmed by the certificate of acceptance of Islam issued by the Jamia Hanafia, Sialkot. Incidentally over 2,000 non-Muslims have ‘embraced’ Islam at Sialkot’s Jamia Hanafia.

In the UK, Islamic Supremacist groups such as Al-Majiroun are known to engage in aggressive proselytising activities and have been accused of spreading leaflets in universities urging Muslim students to target Sikh girls for ‘conversion.’

Among Muslims and Sikhs in Britain today there are several areas of contestation that have the potential to turn into serious conflict.

Muslim population of the UK is several times larger than the Sikh population. Further some localities, such as Southall, Slough, West Bromwich, Handsworth, and Hillingdon, traditionally associated with the Sikh community, have experienced an increase in Muslim settlement. This rapid demographic change has led to intense competition over resources such as housing, education, social services and social security.

Lately Muslim and Sikh youth have been engaged in serious acts of violence in a number of cities/localities across UK and Europe. This mobilisation has been conducted over allegations of ‘forced conversions’ of Sikh girls by Muslim boys.

In the latest manifestation of the hate between the Sikh and Muslim communities in the West, an online conflict is underway between Sikhs and Muslims in Europe. The matter started some weeks ago, when a Sikh posted hateful comments about Muslims over video platform TikTok from the US or UK. The video was responded to by attacks on Sikhs by Muslim uploaders of Pakistani origin. Pakistani TikToker ‘Hassan Gondal Dogar’ based in Berlin, Germany has particularly been very vocal in criticising Sikh, with negative references about the Khalistan and about Sikh girls. Reacting to Gondal’s provocative remarks, Sikh TikToker by account name Mannaphagwara @manna_phagwara, hailing from Phagwara in Punjab and currently residing in Savigliano, Cuneo, Italy, has committed to travel to Berlin and see face to face with Gondal. Apparently now Sikh youth from different parts of Europe, including Italy, Spain, France, Belgium, Netherlands etc. are planning to travel to Berlin for the Gondal – Mannaphagwara face off.

It is evident that in some localities in Europe there are serious underlying tensions between some segments of the Muslim and Sikh communities, especially the youth. This contestation between Sikh and Muslims over resources and especially over conversion is increasingly leading to racialisation of the diasporic communities. There is already some resentment in the public sphere among Sikh groups that public sector resources are being disproportionately allocated to deal with Muslim issues because of the Islamic radicalisation security threat, at the expense and marginalisation of other communities.

It is troublesome that in Britain and in the wider West today, religion is recognised as the core marker of minority identity for Sikhs and Muslims. Since the late 1990s there has been a distinct shift from ‘ethnic’ to ‘religious identification as either Sikh or Muslim. This fact is supported by research which has identified the centrality of religious institutions, especially places of worship, in the daily lives of minority communities.  Given that the profile of both Muslim and Sikh communities in the West is very young, their radicalisation should be a matter of concern for the governments.

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Culture Food Restaurant Reviews

A fusion of art and science, not just a Bakery: WHEATY

Wheaty-Wheat.Heat.Eat is the ultimate destination for a diverse selection of all-natural, slow-fermented, high hydration breads, each crafted with love and precision in small, artisanal batches. The brand takes immense pride in delivering a delightful and wholesome experience, ensuring that everything they offer is hot, fresh, and free from preservatives, with an emphasis on enjoying it right away to savour the peak of flavour. A feature by columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

Wheaty’s journey began as a heartfelt lockdown hobby, where the visionary behind Wheaty, founder, Mr. Varun Tuli, MD of Yum Yum Cha, discovered his passion for the art of bread-making during those initial weeks of confinement. Mr. Tuli’s dedication and enthusiasm knew no bounds, and as soon as the lockdown was lifted, he enthusiastically imparted his newfound knowledge to his talented bakery team, laying the foundation for what we now know and adore as Wheaty. 

Wheaty is not just a bakery; it’s a testament to the fusion of art and science, where each loaf of bread is meticulously crafted to perfection. Their repertoire of breads includes the divine 100% Whole Wheat Sourdough, the comforting and soft Milk Bread, the classic and crispy Baguette, and the tangy Olive Sourdough, among many others, ensuring a myriad of scrumptious bites to choose from. 

But wait, there’s more! Their current menu extends far beyond just a variety of breads. Wheaty aims to revolutionise discerning diner’s culinary journey by offering an exciting array of options that cater to all taste preferences. For the first time in Delhi, foodies can now delve into a whole new world of gastronomic delight by ordering our DIY Pizza kit, allowing you to create a mouthwatering Neapolitan pizza in the comfort of your own kitchen. And for those with specific dietary needs, they present an exquisite range of eggless croissants and Gluten-Free breads, ensuring that no one misses out on the joy of indulging in the finest bakery treats. 

But that’s not all – they believe in elevating your dining experience by offering a delectable selection of dips, sauces and other delectable accompaniments that complement their bread offerings perfectly, adding a burst of flavour to every bite. 

Wheaty is much more than just a bakery; it’s an enchanting culinary haven where passion, craftsmanship, and creativity converge to deliver an unparalleled bread experience. The brand invites you to join them on this extraordinary journey as they continue to innovate, explore, and delight your taste buds with the finest offerings from the world of baking. 

Wheaty breads, pizza and pasta packs all have robust authentic flavours offering a diverse range of options catering to various tastes and nutritional needs so there’s something for everyone. Their packaging is attractive and also convenient to unbox, it can even make it a good gifting option with its exquisite presentation; it’s portion sizes when you order are generous; the taste is fresh, world-class and exquisite; it’s all baked to perfection giving you a wholesome experience when you order anything from their varied menu choices! At Wheaty, every loaf indeed tells a tale of flavour, tradition, and innovation! Highly Recommended! 

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-Top News Culture USA

Times Square Illuminates With Holi Wishes

Earlier in the day, US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti also extended Holi wishes to the people of India via a video message shared on X…reports Asian Lite News

The Indian Consulate in New York extended Holi greetings by illuminating the iconic Times Square in New York City with banners of Holi wishes on Monday.

“Wishing everyone a colorful and joyous Holi from the heart of New York City. #TimesSquare May the festival of color fill your life with happiness, love and peace,”Indian Consulate in New York posted on X.

Earlier, the Indian Embassy in the US also wished everyone a joyous celebration resplendent with colours and music.

In a video shared on X, the Indian Embassy in the US captured the exuberant spirit of Holi celebrations. The video showcased a lively scene at DuPoint Circle, where people immersed themselves in the festivities, dancing joyously while playing with vibrant colours.

US President Joe Biden extended Holi wishes, emphasising that millions of people globally will join together to celebrate the festival, the arrival of Spring, with Gulal and vibrant colours.

Taking to his social media X, US President Biden posted, “Today, millions around the world will join together to celebrate Holi, the arrival of Spring, with Gulal and vibrant colors.”

He, along with first lady Jill Biden, wished everyone to celebrate the festival of colours.

“Jill and I wish all those observing today’s Festival of Colors joy and happiness,” he added.

Earlier in the day, US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti also extended Holi wishes to the people of India via a video message shared on X.

He said, “I want to wish everybody a very happy Holi. We have this amazing gujiyas, which has a little bit of an American twist with some pistachios in here, beautiful rose water. There’s no better way than to celebrate Holi across the Indo-Pacific together.”

Holi, the festival of colours, is a celebration of liveliness, joy and, of course, familial ties and close bonds. It marks the blooming of spring after a long winter season. On the day of Holi, people come together and smear dry and wet colours on each other.

Many people, especially children, celebrate the festival by playing with water-filled balloons and water guns. As with any other festival, people also treat each other to special Holi delicacies like gujiya. (ANI)

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Culture Lite Blogs

A Roman Holi: Bulgari’s Tribute to India’s Rich Cultural Heritage

The evening unfolded with immersive experiences that connected the art of colour with the brilliance of precious stones. Jasleen Royal’s mesmerising live performance has set a vibrant mood for the evening…reports Asian Lite News

The private residence of the Ambani family – Antilia saw a vibrant gala of Holi in Mumbai. The Magnificent Roman High Jeweler, Bulgari also known as the master of coloured gemstones, celebrated the festive spirit of Holi, the Indian festival of Colours, with A Roman Holi co-hosted with Isha M. Ambani, Director, Reliance Industries Limited.

The evening was an ode to Bulgari’s love for India and its deep connection to its rich cultural heritage.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Bulgari’s global ambassador, embraced the spirit of the Maison at the gathering. She asserts, “Holi is one of my favourite festivals, and I’m thrilled to be celebrating it with Bulgari as ‘A Roman Holi,’ a concept that beautifully blends innovation with the rich traditions of both India and Italy. This event holds a special place in my heart as Bulgari’s Heritage Collection draws inspiration from the Navratna, uniting the celebrated cultures and traditions of India and Italy on a global stage. Bulgari’s dedication to diversity and its practice of imbibing cultural heritage to craft its legacy has always resonated with me. I am looking forward to witnessing how we can serve as inspirations to build a heritage that elevates the grandeur of both countries.”

For this special occasion, Bulgari selected nine necklaces from its Heritage Collection, featuring nine different gems inspired by the Navratna, a talisman connected to Indian astrology, expressing Maison’s love for coloured gemstones. Highlighting rubies, sapphires, emeralds, amethysts, pearls, diamonds, citrines and peridots. Exceptional creations from the 1980s embody Italian craftsmanship and a daring tribute to colours.

The evening unfolded with immersive experiences that connected the art of colour with the brilliance of precious stones. Jasleen Royal’s mesmerising live performance has set a vibrant mood for the evening.

Amongst the other attendees who graced the event were Jean Christophe Babin, Bulgari CEO, and Lucia Silvestri, Bulgari Creative Director Jewelry, ‘Andhadhun’ star, and a friend of the Maison, Ayushmann Khurrana, fashion icon Athiya Shetty, the ‘Dhak Dhak Girl’ Madhuri Dixit, actress and fitness enthusiast Shilpa Shetty.

Thrilled with the success of the evening, Jean Christophe Babin, CEO of Bulgari shared, “The relationship India has with jewelry goes beyond aesthetic appeal. It is a form of expression, of connecting the past with the present. The concept of A Roman Holi ties in all these nuances through colours and celebration. Highlighting our heritage collection of coloured gemstones in the aura of Holi paying tribute to Indian Navratna was an exhilarating moment for us.”

A Roman Holi aims to forge an enduring tie between India and the Maison that will lend endless creative expressions.

ALSO READ-Dubai Tops Indians’ Travel Lists for Holi

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Culture Lite Blogs

William Dalrymple Unveils ‘The Golden Road’ in Hampi

The upcoming event exemplifies the resort’s dedication to promoting cultural exchange and intellectual exploration, serving as a proud facilitator of this enriching experience and celebrating the depth and diversity of India’s cultural legacy…reports Asian Lite News

It is just right to debut a book discussing the rich cultural legacy of ancient India in Hampi, a place imbued with profound meaning through its breathtaking architectural remnants and spiritual and cultural practices.

The much-awaited book of renowned author and multiple award-winning historian Dr. William Dalrymple’s ‘The Golden Road: How Ancient India Transformed the World’ is set to debut at a special talk event at Evolve Back Kamalapura Palace in Hampi on 19 March 2024, at 7 pm.

The upcoming event exemplifies the resort’s dedication to promoting cultural exchange and intellectual exploration, serving as a proud facilitator of this enriching experience and celebrating the depth and diversity of India’s cultural legacy.

‘The Golden Road: How Ancient India Transformed the World’ uncovers the depth of ancient Indian culture, shedding light on its global significance through its religions, languages, art, and architectural wonders. Drawing from a lifetime of research, Dr. Dalrymple sheds light on India’s pivotal role as an intellectual and philosophical superpower in ancient Asia.

“We are honoured to welcome Dr. William Dalrymple to Evolve Back Kamalapura Palace, Hampi, for the unveiling of his much-anticipated book, ‘The Golden Road: How Ancient India Transformed the World.’ His profound insights into India’s cultural heritage resonate deeply with our ethos of offering immersive experiences that celebrate the essence of this land,” shared Jose Ramapuram, Marketing Director at Evolve Back Resorts.

William Dalrymple, renowned for his bestselling works such as Nine Lives: In Search of the Sacred in Modern India, White Mughals, and The Anarchy: The Relentless Rise of the East India Company holds fellowships at esteemed institutions such as the Royal Society of Literature. Awarded the prestigious President’s Medal by the British Academy in 2018, his literary contributions and co-founding of the Jaipur Literature Festival underscore his significant influence in the literary world.

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Culture India News Politics

Rahul ‘Mocks’ Modi’s Dwarka Puja

Earlier in February, PM Modi dived into the Arabian Sea off the coast of Gujarat to perform an underwater puja….reports Asian Lite News

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi took potshots at Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday for performing an underwater puja in the remains of the ancient submerged city of Lord Krishna’s Dwarka earlier in February, alleging that issues like inflation and unemployment are “not being discussed.”

Addressing a farmers meeting at Krishi Utapann Bazar Samiti in Nashik during his Maharashtra leg of the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, the former Congress Chief said, “The issues of farmers, inflation, unemployment, and agniveers are the most prominent in the country today, but on TV channels, you will never see discussion on these issues.”

“Instead, TV channels show Modi ji all 24 hours; at times he goes under the sea to do a puja and a TV camera goes with him, then he takes a flight on a seaplane…,” he said.

“Then he will go to the China border and the media will follow him. Then (He) will talk about Pakistan. Then the COVID-19 pandemic will come and (we will be) clapping and clanging utensils. He will make everyone dance,” the Wayanad MP said.

Earlier in February, PM Modi dived into the Arabian Sea off the coast of Gujarat to perform an underwater puja. Dwarka, known for its connection with Lord Krishna, was once a thriving city that is believed to have been submerged under the sea centuries ago after Krishna’s departure from Earth.

The Nyay Yatra is passing through the state of Maharashtra.

The Congress and the Shiv Sena (UBT) are part of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), which also includes the NCP (SPawar) in the state. Smaller parties like the Swambhimani Vikash Parishad (SWP) and the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) are also likely to join the Congress-led alliance in the state. The state sends 48 legislators to the Lok Sabha.

The Congress’s ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra’, after the party’s ‘Bharat Jodo Yatra’, aims to cover 6,700 km through 15 states, with Lok Sabha polls around the corner.

The Lok Sabha polls are likely to be held in April-May this year.

Rahul offers prayers at Nashik temple

Rahul Gandhi offered prayers at Trimbakeshwar Temple in Maharashtra’s Nashik on Thursday.

The Temple is renowned for its significance in Hindu Mythology and holds a special place among the devotees.

Gandhi resumed his yatra from Nashik on Thursday afternoon.

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, while addressing the gathering here hit out at the BJP-led Centre, accusing it of doing ‘financial injustice’ to the people of the country.

“How many loans of those who take exams – of Police, of IAS-IPS – has been waived off? Not even a Rupee. How much loan of labourers has been waived off? Not even a Rupee. How much of small shopkeepers? Not even a Rupee. Rs 16 Lakh Crores loan of the richest has been waived off. This is financial injustice. 22 people in India have the same amount of money that is held by 70 crore people of India…This is injustice. We are taking out this Yatra against this,” Gandhi said.

The Nyay Yatra entered the state from the district of Nandurbar on Tuesday, March 12.

The Congress and the Shiv Sena (UBT) are part of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), which also includes the NCP (SPawar) in the state. Smaller parties like the Swambhimani Vikash Parishad (SWP) and the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) are also likely to join the Congress-led alliance in the state. The state sends 48 legislators to the Lok Sabha.

The Congress’s ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra’, after the party’s ‘Bharat Jodo Yatra’, aims to cover 6,700 km through 15 states, with Lok Sabha polls around the corner.

The Lok Sabha polls are likely to be held in April-May this year. (ANI)

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Culture Fashion Lite Blogs

A Journey into Dagestani Cultural Heritage

Originating from Dagestan, Russia, since its foundation in 2018 to its recent presentation at the Beinopen forum in 2023, Measure has been on an extraordinary trajectory…reports Asian Lite News

The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) is once again all set to steal the spotlight on the fourth day of Lakmē Fashion Week with a trailblazing presentation – an International designer initiative “Measure”, showcasing an innovative collection “TOi.” at JIO World Convention Centre, Mumbai.

Originating from Dagestan, Russia, since its foundation in 2018 to its recent presentation at the Beinopen forum in 2023, Measure has been on an extraordinary trajectory.

Measure, stands as a cultural phenomenon in the realm of modest fashion, hailing from Dagestan, Russia. It seeks harmony between the natural and the man-made, the past and the present, the vital and the spiritual. Notable milestones include the creation of the multi-brand concept store Others and its opening in Moscow, participation in the prestigious Moscow Fashion Week, and media coverage in Elle and Vogue Italia and Russia.

Designer Zainab Saidulaeva’s cutting-edge collection “TOi” is a creative exploration inspired by Dagestani wedding traditions, fusing the mosaic of customs, wedding gifts, and historical attire into a contemporary design narrative. The collection’s design ethos is expressed through a delicate interplay of layering and rich texture, making Measure a distinctive force in the fashion landscape.

“As a designer, I am thrilled to unveil my ‘TOI’ collection at LFW x FDCI, a creative journey into Dagestan wedding traditions. Inspired by the rich tapestry of customs and garments from the region’s past, the collection explores the beauty of multi-layered outfits in black and various shades of white, using silk in diverse variations. Join us on this mesmerizing journey into the heart of Dagestan’s cultural heritage, all thanks to the Fashion Design Council of India for this incredible opportunity” said designer Zainab Saidulaeva.

Scheduled to be held on 16th March at 8:30 pm, this show is an exquisite fusion of fashion and art, adding another chapter to this legacy, and capturing the imagination of fashion aficionados and art lovers alike.

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