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Showing posts from 2018

Lalibela, Ethiopia – The 11 Incredible Rock-Hewn Churches

THE CRA PERSPECTIVE • WORLD HERITAGE THE ROCK-HEWN CHURCHES OF LALIBELA Ethiopia's Extraordinary City Carved from Living Stone Eleven medieval churches. One extraordinary architectural legacy. Lalibela, Ethiopia • UNESCO World Heritage Site An illustrative artistic interpretation of Lalibela's extraordinary rock-hewn architecture. Imagine entering a place where the walls, pillars, windows, roofs and entire sacred buildings are not assembled from bricks or stones, but carved out of one enormous mass of solid rock. Deep in the Ethiopian highlands lies a remarkable architectural wonder that seems to challenge the limits of human imagination. Known as the Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela , this extraordinary complex consists of eleven medieval churches carved directly into volcanic rock. Some stand within enormous sunken courtyards. Others are surrounded by trenches, tunnels and passages. Their architecture reflects remarkable craftsmanship, religious...

ICE CREAM ROLL

Preparation of ICE Cream Roll 

💧 Karakattam – The Dance of Rain & Devotion

💧 Karakattam – The Dance of Rain & Devotion Tradition • Rhythm • Devotion • Nature Karakattam is an ancient and vibrant folk dance of Tamil Nadu, performed in devotion to the rain goddess Mariamman . The word originates from “Karakam” , meaning water pot , symbolizing life, nature, and prosperity. This dance is a beautiful blend of rhythm, balance, and spirituality . 🌿 Origins & Cultural Significance Karakattam has deep roots in Tamil tradition and is believed to be inspired by ancient dance forms, including elements of Bharatanatyam. It is performed to seek blessings for rain, prosperity, and protection of crops . Nature and devotion come together through movement. 🎭 Types of Karakattam Aatta Karakam – Performed for entertainment and celebration 🎉 Sakthi Karakam – Sacred temple performance 🙏 Both forms represent different aspects of joy and devotion . 💃 Dance & Performance The most striking feature of Karaka...

Oyilattam – The Graceful Dance of Tamil Nadu

🎭 Oyilattam – The Graceful Dance of Tamil Nadu Culture • Rhythm • Tradition • Expression Oyilattam is a vibrant folk dance of Tamil Nadu that beautifully blends rhythm, grace, and cultural pride. The term “Oyil” signifies beauty, while “Attam” means dance—together representing an art form that celebrates elegance and tradition. Performed during festivals and gatherings, Oyilattam is not merely entertainment—it is a living expression of unity and heritage.  🌿 Origins & Cultural Significance Rooted in rural Tamil Nadu, Oyilattam was traditionally performed during harvest festivals, temple rituals, and celebrations of victory. Over time, it evolved into a community dance performed by both men and women. Pongal – Harvest celebration 🌾 Temple Festivals – Devotional performances 🙏 Weddings & Cultural Events – Joyful gatherings 🎉 It symbolizes unity, devotion, and collective spirit. 🕺 Dance Style & Movements Oyilattam is known ...

🥁 Thappattam (Parai Attam): The Rhythmic Soul of Tamil Nadu

🥁 Thappattam (Parai Attam) – The Rhythm of Resistance Culture • Rhythm • Identity • Power   Thappattam , also known as Parai Attam , is one of the oldest and most powerful traditional art forms of Tamil Nadu. It is a unique fusion of drumming, dance, and storytelling . More than a performance, it represents community, resistance, celebration, and identity , echoing the voices of generations. 🥁 The Instrument: Parai The word “Parai” means to speak . This drum is not just an instrument—it is a voice. Material: Neem or tamarind wood with animal skin Technique: Played using two sticks Sound: Deep, commanding, and emotional Every beat tells a story. 💃 Dance & Expression In Parai Attam, performers are both drummers and dancers. Their movements combine: Energetic footwork Rhythmic body movement Expressive storytelling Each performance reflects joy, struggle, devotion, and social messages . Movement becomes emotion. ...

Kankaria Lake and Zoo, Ahmedabad, Gujarat

Kankaria Lake, formerly known as Hauj-e-Qutb, is the second largest lake in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. It is located in the south-eastern part of the city, in the Maninagar area. It was completed in 1451 during the reign of Sultan Qutb-ud-Din Ahmad Shah II though its origin is placed in the Chaulukya period sometimes. A lakefront is developed around it, which has many public attractions such as a zoo, toy train, kids city, tethered balloon ride, water rides, water park, food stalls, and entertainment facilities. The lakefront was revamped in 2008. Kankaria Carnival is a week-long festival held here in the last week of December. Many cultural, art, and social activities are organised during the carnival. Several stories are told for its name Kankaria. One reason said is that it was named thus due to large quantities of limestone (kankar in Gujarati) dug out of it during excavation. Another story narrates that the Sultan Qutb-ud-Din asked the saint Shah Alam to select the site for ...