भारत के लोगों के लिए कमल का फूल पवित्रता तथा शांति का प्रतीक होने के साथ ईश्वर के अवतार का संकेत चिह्न भी है। 

The Mahabharata and the Ramayana are two of the most respected Hindu epics which, beyond being just amazing works of literature, also serve as sacred texts representing India’s culture, spirituality, and ethics. Over centuries, these stories have influenced all aspects of religious practices, societal norms as well as philosophy for millions of people. This article is a discussion of these themes as depicted in these narratives.

An Overview: The RamayanaThis ancient Sanskrit epic, written by sage Valmiki tells the story of Rama himself with his wife Sita and his dear friend Hanuman. It spans over seven Kandas (books) and describes that Rama was sent to exile for fourteen years into the forest where Sita was kidnapped by demon king Ravana until she got saved.

1. Balakanda (The Book of Childhood): This section explains how Rama including his brothers were miraculously born and their early teachings together with escapades such as marriage to Sita.
2. Ayodhyakanda (The Book of Ayodhya): It outlines a political conspiracy within the Ayodhya kingdom which results in Rama’s banishment. Here it brings out the values of duty and sacrifice when despite being the rightful heir; Ram chooses to honor his father’s word to his stepmother Kaikeyi.

एक तरफ जहां उत्तराखंड सरकार धार्मिक पर्यटन को बढ़ावा देने के दावे कर रही है, वहीं दूसरी तरफ विश्व प्रसिद्ध पिरान कलियार दरगाह सरकार की उदासीनता का शिकार है. ऐसा लगता है कि राज्य सरकार राज्य में पर्यटन को बढ़ावा देने के बड़े-बड़े दावे करने तक ही सीमित है।

Hinduism is one of the oldest and most diverse religious traditions in the world. Over the years, it has been deeply connected with social systems and cultural norms which have greatly impacted people’s lives for centuries. This paper will discuss two major social concerns that exist within Hindu society – caste system and women’s status. We will look at their historical background, development over time as well as current challenges faced by them; besides we are going to touch upon attempts made towards changing these aspects taking into consideration insights from Hindu religious texts, historical records and contemporary discourses.

Caste System in Hindu Society: Historical Views and Modern ChallengesThe “varna vyavastha” or caste system is a hierarchical division of people into different groups based on their birth, occupation and social status . There are four main categories under this traditional varna system:

• Brahmins (Priests): They belong to highest varna who perform priestly duties such as conducting rituals, studying scriptures etc.
• Kshatriyas (Warriors): This class includes warriors responsible for protecting society against external aggression and ruling kingdoms internally.
• Vaishyas (Merchants): Members of business community engaged mainly in wealth creation through trade activities like agriculture among others.
• Shudras (Servants): Labourers performing manual tasks considered inferior by other higher castes; they serve those above them.

1. The roots of Jainism: With roots in ancient India, Jainism is known for its dedication to honesty (satya), non-violence (ahimsa), celibacy (brahmacharya), non-stealing (asteya), and non-possession (aparigraha). The ethical cornerstone of Jain practice is composed of these precepts, also referred to as the Five Vows or Mahavratas.

The history and cultural background of the Parsi Architechture expresses the spirit of Zoroastrian faith and reflects on the continuity of the glorious past of this Ancient Religion. Originating in ancient Persia, the Parsi community has reached their enduring status by maintaining and artificial the architecture of Zoroastrianism that encompasses different areas and eras. This article shall addresses these complex linkages through examination of the way how the religious symbolism, cultural identity, and the historical context have subtly woven the physical landscapeformed for the Parsi community.Historical Background:In order to realize Parsi architecture, it is necessary to disect the historical background of Zoroastrianism as well as its migration to India. Zoroastrianism, which belongs to the group of ancient monotheistic religions, has been part of the human history from ancient times. It originated in Persia (the modern day of Iran) and went to the zenith during the Achaemenid, Parthian, and Sassanian empires. After the Arab venture on Persia in the 7th century CE, Zoroastrians had to be persecuted and so they went in exile to towns like Gujarat that is the western coast of India. Arriving in Iran, they were entitled to be called the Parsis who were original caretakers of ancestral practices, cultural activities, and ethos, the essence of characteristic of all Parsi structures.Key Architectural Features:The Parsi architecture is the outcome of Indigenous Indian styles merge with Persian and European elements that combined gives a distinctive and individualized design marked by its sophisticated elegance and space-friendly features. Some key architectural features commonly found in Parsi buildings include:Some key architectural features commonly found in Parsi buildings include:

• Atash Behrams and Fire Temples: The fiery altar which is the only Zoroastrian place of worship is representative of pureness and the eternal light of God. Such atash behrams or fire temples that are sacred places in which the eternal flame, symbolizing presence of Ahura Mazda the supreme god in the Zoroastrian cosmology, is considered the highest dignity. These temples are ornate and rigorously constructed with the intention of holding rituals and ceremonies that are associated with fire worship and feature exquisite facades, intricate carvings and geometric patterns that mirror the characteristic fire symbol of the worshipers.