Latest news with #Buddha
India.com
3 hours ago
- General
- India.com
Stage set for world to celebrate International Day of Yoga
(Image courtesy: X/@IndianEmbTokyo) New Delhi: Several countries across the globe organised Yoga sessions on Friday, marking the one-day countdown to the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY). The Embassy of India in Nepal, in association with Lumbini Development Trust, organised a large-scale Yoga demonstration at Lumbini – the revered birthplace of Lord Buddha and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ambassador of India to Nepal, Naveen Srivastava, highlighted that Yoga, an ancient practice with its origins in India, has grown into a global movement, particularly following the United Nations' declaration of June 21 as the International Day of Yoga in 2014. He remarked that Lumbini, widely regarded as a symbol of peace and harmony, provides a truly fitting setting to celebrate the timeless values of Yoga. The occasion was a part of a series of events being conducted by the Embassy of India to celebrate the 11th International Day of Yoga across various cities in Nepal. In Thailand, students of St. Andrews International School engaged in a yoga session highlighting the spirit of Yoga for 'One Earth, One Health'. 'Reflecting the spirit of Yoga for One Earth One Health, students of St. Andrews International School, Thailand, participated in an energizing yoga session organised by Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, Embassy of India, Bangkok,' Indian Embassy in Bangkok posted on X. In Austria, the celebration of IDY by the Indian Embassy in Vienna in partnership with Stadt Wien was featured prominently by ORF, Austria's national broadcasting service in its morning show 'Guten Morgen Österreich'. In Saudi Arabia, students from International Indian Schools in Taif and Jubail cities participated in a Yoga session embodying harmony, wellness, and togetherness. 'In celebration of International Day of Yoga, students from International Indian Schools in Taif and Jubail cities organised an energising Yoga session. Their vibrant spirit embodied the harmony, wellness, and togetherness that Yoga brings to our lives,' the Indian Embassy in Riyadh posted on X. On the sidelines of the Mobile World Congress in Shanghai, the Consulate General of India in Shanghai organised a well-attended IDY workshop and symposium for participants. In Japan, the 11th IDY countdown was celebrated at the Osaka Expo 2025. 'Ambassador of India to Japan Sibi George and Vice Governor of Osaka Prefecture Shigeki Watanabe inaugurated the celebrations and joined the collective yoga session alongside thousands of yoga enthusiasts,' the Indian Embassy in Tokyo posted on X. Marking one day countdown to IDY, the High Commission of India in Kenya organised a special yoga session at Ulinzi Sports Complex, Nairobi, for the Foreign Affairs officials in Kenya, as part of their Annual Staff Wellness Day. Focusing on the holistic health benefits of yoga, the session received an enthusiastic response and saw participation from over 300 officials. In his 'Mann ki Baat' address on March 30, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had emphasised the importance of fitness in daily life and praised initiatives like the International Yoga Day. While sharing India's vision for a healthier world population, PM Modi mentioned the theme of IDY 2025 as 'Yoga for One Earth One Health', which ensures holistic health for the whole world. The 2025 theme highlights Yoga's role in promoting physical, mental, and environmental well-being, aligning with global calls for sustainability and unity. It builds on a decade of success since the United Nations recognised June 21 as International Day of Yoga, following India's proposal in 2014.
Indian Express
11 hours ago
- General
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 1 : Questions on significance of the triratna and temple architecture (Week 107)
UPSC Essentials brings to you its initiative for the practice of Mains answer writing. It covers essential topics of static and dynamic parts of the UPSC Civil Services syllabus covered under various GS papers. This answer-writing practice is designed to help you as a value addition to your UPSC CSE Mains. Attempt today's answer writing on questions related to topics of GS-1 to check your progress. 🚨 Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for June 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at Discuss the major structural and decorative differences between the Nāgara and Drāviḍa temple traditions. Explain the significance of the triratna ('Three Jewels') in the quest of nibbāna. Explain how Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha interact as interconnected underpinnings of the Buddhist path. Introduction — The introduction of the answer is essential and should be restricted to 3-5 lines. Remember, a one-liner is not a standard introduction. — It may consist of basic information by giving some definitions from the trusted source and authentic facts. Body — It is the central part of the answer and one should understand the demand of the question to provide rich content. — The answer must be preferably written as a mix of points and short paragraphs rather than using long paragraphs or just points. — Using facts from authentic government sources makes your answer more comprehensive. Analysis is important based on the demand of the question, but do not over analyse. — Underlining keywords gives you an edge over other candidates and enhances presentation of the answer. — Using flowcharts/tree-diagram in the answers saves much time and boosts your score. However, it should be used logically and only where it is required. Way forward/ conclusion — The ending of the answer should be on a positive note and it should have a forward-looking approach. However, if you feel that an important problem must be highlighted, you may add it in your conclusion. Try not to repeat any point from body or introduction. — You may use the findings of reports or surveys conducted at national and international levels, quotes etc. in your answers. Self Evaluation — It is the most important part of our Mains answer writing practice. UPSC Essentials will provide some guiding points or ideas as a thought process that will help you to evaluate your answers. QUESTION 1: Discuss the major structural and decorative differences between the Nāgara and Drāviḍa temple traditions. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — Indian temple architecture follows two main traditions: Nāgara (northern) and Draviḍa (southern). — In addition to these two, Indian art treatises discuss a third sort of construction tradition known as the 'Vesara' or hybrid. The etymological meaning of the term has led researchers in the past to interpret this category as a synthesis of northern and southern artistic traditions and to identify it with the geographically appropriate Deccan region. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: Nagara or North Indian Temple Style — Nagara is a temple building style that rose to prominence in northern India. In North India, it is typical to construct an entire temple on a stone platform with steps going up to it. — The earliest temples had only one tower, or shikhara, whereas later temples had multiple. The garbhagriha is always situated right beneath the tallest structure. — Nagara temples are divided into various categories based on the shape of the shikhara. The various components of the temple are known by different names in different parts of India; nevertheless, the plain shikhara is the most prevalent. — The phamsana is the nagara order's second primary architectural form. Phamsana buildings are often larger and shorter than Latina buildings. Their roofs are made up of many slabs that slowly rise to a single point above the core of the building, as opposed to Latina roofs, which appear to be sharply rising towering towers. — The third major kind of nagara buildings is known as the valabhi type. These are rectangular structures with roofs that rise into vaulted chambers. The vaulted chamber's edge is rounded, similar to the bamboo or wooden waggons hauled by bullocks in ancient times. They are commonly known as 'wagonvaulted buildings'. Dravida or South Indian Temple Style — The Dravidian temple is encircled by a compound wall. The front wall has an entrance gateway in the centre, known as a gopuram. In Tamil Nadu, the main temple tower, known as vimana, is shaped like a stepped pyramid that rises geometrically, as opposed to North India's bending shikhara. — In South Indian temples, the term'shikhara' refers only to the crowning part at the top of the temple, which is typically formed like a tiny stupika or an octagonal cupola—this is analogous to the amlak and kalasha of North Indian temples. To read more: How Indian temple architecture is rooted in art, religion, and politics Conclusion: — The evolution of Indian temple building is based on a complex interplay of art, religion, politics, and culture. While it began modestly, it grew into a sophisticated tradition that differed by region while maintaining a consistent cultural character. — Temples were frequently visited by powerful monarchs to worship their preferred deity while also asserting, consolidating, and legitimising their rule over an existing or new area. Rajaraja Cola, for example, constructed the Thanjavur Brihadesvara temple to demonstrate his authority over the region. — Kanchipuram, Thanjavur or Tanjore, Madurai, and Kumbakonam are the most well-known temple cities in Tamil Nadu, where temples served more than only religious purposes from the seventh to the twelfth centuries. Temples grew into prosperous administrative centres, governing enormous tracts of territory. (Source: How Indian temple architecture is rooted in art, religion, and politics, Points to Ponder Read more about Indian Temples Read about important temples in news in India Related Previous Year Questions How will you explain that Medieval Indian temple sculptures represent the social life of those days? (2022) Chola architecture represents a high watermark in the evolution of temple architecture. Discuss. (2013) QUESTION 2: Explain the significance of the triratna ('Three Jewels') in the quest of nibbāna. Explain how Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha interact as interconnected underpinnings of the Buddhist path. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — Buddhism, founded on Siddhartha Gautama's or Buddha's teachings, lays forth the road to nibbana (freedom). The Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha are the three jewels of Buddhism, and they are important to this path. — These three, also known as the tisarana (threefold refuge), are places of sanctuary for Buddhists, both laity (upasakas/upasikas) and monastics. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — The Buddha is the first and most fundamental of the three refuges. He is renowned as an awakened teacher who discovered and spread the road to liberation. — In Buddhism, Dhamma refers to the Buddha's teachings, which are based on the ariya sacchani or four noble truths and the atthanga magga or eightfold way. It describes ethical behaviour, discipline, and wisdom as the pillars of an individual's development. Impermanence (anichcha) is a key concept in the Buddha's teaching in this regard. — In the framework of a person's life and existence, no force in the cosmos can avert the unavoidable. As Siddhartha discovered on his first visit outside the palace, the beginning of old age, disease, and death is unavoidable. As a result, the conceptions of 'I','me', and'self' are ever-changing and comprised of a variety of experiences. — This idea is intimately related to Buddhism's rejection of anything permanent, including the soul or atman. Buddhism offers the doctrine of anattā (non-self), which holds that there is no permanent self or essence within beings or occurrences. This principle is expressed through a discourse between King Milinda and monk Nāgasena from Milindapañhā. — In Buddhist teachings, the Dhamma is sometimes compared to a raft, a powerful metaphor utilised in the Majjhima Nikaya. The book depicts a man who comes across a big river in flood. The shore he stands on is perilous and filled with terror, yet the far shore appears safe. However, there is no bridge or boat to help him cross the river. — After the Buddha and the Dhamma, the Sangha is the third jewel of the triratna. The Sangha is Buddhism's monastic organisation, created during the Buddha's lifetime. It was the central institution for disseminating the Buddha's teachings. — The Sangha's regulations specify aspects of monastic life, such as what its members should eat, how they should speak and walk, what they should dress, and how they should behave. These regulations also establish standards for settling conflicts and establishing the relationship between the Sangha and the laity. The Vinaya Pitaka also details the monks' first travelling lifestyle and ultimate transition to fixed dwelling. (Source: Three jewels that shape Buddhist philosophy and way of life) Points to Ponder Read about Vinaya Pitaka, Milindapañhā Read more about Buddhism Related Previous Year Questions Early Buddhist Stupa-art, while depicting folk motifs and narratives successfully expounds Buddhist ideals. Elucidate. (2016) Pala period is the most significant phase in the history of Buddhism in India. Enumerate. (2020) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 106) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 107) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 106) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 107) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 106) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 105) Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter and stay updated with the news cues from the past week. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X.
Hans India
a day ago
- Hans India
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Dehradun for Your Next Trip
Dehradun, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, is a charming city that blends natural splendour with a rich cultural heritage. Often seen as the gateway to Mussoorie, Dehradun has an identity of its own—offering a mix of adventure, history, delectable cuisine, and serene landscapes. With numerous places to visit in Dehradun, from scenic waterfalls to ancient temples and bustling markets, the city promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or an exciting getaway, here are five compelling reasons Dehradun deserves a spot on your travel list. 1. Breathtaking Natural Beauty and Pleasant Weather Surrounded by the Shivalik hills, Dehradun is a paradise for nature lovers. The city's greenery, scenic trails, and flowing streams create an atmosphere of serenity, perfect for those seeking a break from the chaos of city life. Whether you're planning a short visit or an extended stay, plenty of hotel rooms in Dehradun offer comfort and scenic views, allowing you to wake up to the beauty of the hills. Some top spots to explore here include: ● Robber's Cave (Gucchu Pani): A fascinating natural formation with a river running through a limestone cave, making it an ideal spot for exploration. ● Sahastradhara: Known as the 'Thousand-Fold Spring,' this destination features sulphur-rich waterfalls believed to have therapeutic properties. ● Malsi Deer Park: A tranquil retreat where you can spot deer, peacocks, and other wildlife amid lush surroundings. With a pleasant climate for most of the year, Dehradun is an all-season destination offering natural splendour at every turn. 2. A Blend of History and Heritage Dehradun's past is deeply intertwined with mythology, colonial rule, and post-independence India. A walk through the city reveals an interesting mix of architectural wonders and historical landmarks like the following: ● Forest Research Institute (FRI): A majestic Greco-Roman-style institute with grand corridors and lush gardens offering a glimpse into India's forestry heritage. ● Mindrolling Monastery: One of India's largest Buddhist centres, home to intricate murals and a massive gold-plated Buddha statue. ● Tapkeshwar Temple: This revered Shiva temple is set inside a natural cave, with a water stream flowing over the Shivling, making it a unique spiritual experience. For history buffs, Dehradun is more than just a scenic destination—it's a place that narrates stories of the past at every corner. 3. An Adventure Seeker's Paradise If you crave adventure, Dehradun is the perfect base for thrilling activities. The city and its surroundings offer plenty of adrenaline-pumping experiences from treks to wildlife safaris. Adventure enthusiasts can consider visiting the following places: ● Nag Tibba Trek: A stunning trek leading to breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks. ● Rajaji National Park: A haven for wildlife lovers, offering jungle safaris where you can spot elephants, leopards, and even tigers. ● Asan Barrage: A paradise for bird watchers, this wetland is home to several migratory birds, making it a great spot for nature photography. For those who prefer quieter adventures, a hotel in Dehradun near the lush hillsides and charming trails offers a perfect setting for long walks and mountain biking. 4. The Ultimate Culinary Experience The restaurants in Taj Mussoorie are a delight for food lovers, offering everything from authentic Pahadi cuisine to cosy cafés serving global delicacies. Whether you're indulging in local street food or sipping coffee in a charming bakery, the city's culinary landscape is sure to impress. Some of the must-try dishes include the following: ● Bun Tikki: A delicious street food speciality featuring a crispy potato patty served in a bun with tangy chutneys. ● Kaafli: A traditional dish made of spinach and fenugreek, rich in flavours and nutrients. ● Ellora's Melting Moments: A must-visit bakery known for its rusks, biscuits, and delightful pastries. 5. Easy Access to Mussoorie for a Perfect Hill Retreat One of the biggest perks of visiting Dehradun is its proximity to Mussoorie, the Queen of Hills. Just an hour's scenic drive away, Mussoorie offers mesmerising landscapes, colonial charm, and a laid-back atmosphere. Whether it's a stroll on Mall Road, a visit to Kempty Falls, or breathtaking views from Lal Tibba, Mussoorie is the perfect escape into the mountains. And if you're looking for an indulgent stay, Taj Mussoorie offers an exquisite experience that blends luxury with the magic of the hills. With panoramic views, elegant interiors, and impeccable hospitality, it elevates your journey from a simple getaway to an unforgettable retreat. Whether you choose to explore Dehradun or unwind in Mussoorie's tranquil embrace, the journey between these two destinations is seamless—each complementing the other beautifully. Plan an Unforgettable Trip to Dehradun Today! Dehradun is more than just a stopover—it's a destination waiting to be explored. From nature and adventure to history and cuisine, this city has something for every traveller. And your trip only gets better with Mussoorie, which is just a short drive away. So, when planning your next holiday, let Dehradun be your starting point for an unforgettable experience.
India.com
2 days ago
- India.com
Bikers Dream These Road Trips From Ranchi Are Straight Out of a Travel Movie
Ranchi functions as Jharkhand's capital where people can discover eastern Indian motorcycle road trips in addition to witnessing its active cultural atmosphere and traditional tribal heritage. The forested city of Ranchi provides an excellent base for exciting weekend adventures among its beautiful waterfalls and peaceful hill terrain. Motorcycle enthusiasts who wish to see the picturesque sites near Ranchi will find seven exceptional road trip destinations offering exciting adventures and spectacular scenery and life-long memories. 1. Dassam Falls (25 km from Ranchi) Tourists commonly visit Dassam Falls which locals refer to as Dassam Ghagh because it ranks as a primary attraction near Ranchi while providing visitors with invigorating driving experiences. At approximately 25 kilometers southeast of the city lies this horseshoe-shaped waterfall which drops approximately 144 feet into a stunning sight. The trip to Dassam Falls offers both new bikers and experienced riders a smooth road journey. Your trip will combine simplistic rural villages with thick woodland landscapes which create enchanting scenery for your adventure. A picnic at the falls should be followed by your bike ride after packing snacks for the day. 2. Jonha Falls (40 km from Ranchi) Motorcyclists should experience the beauty of Gautam Dhara Falls or Jonha Falls because of an ancient Buddha temple in the area. Jonha Falls lies 40 kilometers outside of Ranchi where the water flows from a 40-foot height into a deep pool. The road to Jonha Falls reveals winding paths that lead through green forested areas at every turn among which you can find many desirable photographic locations. The combination of Hundru Falls and Jonha Falls is easily achievable because these attractions lie just a few kilometers apart making it possible to visit them both in a single day. 3. Hundru Falls (45 km from Ranchi) The Jharkhand state's top waterfall is Hundru Falls along Ranchi at 45 kilometers distance that boasts a 320-foot drop. Visitors come to admire this grand waterfall which the Subarnarekha River creates throughout the entire year. Riders can experience an adventurous journey to Hundru Falls since the road is well-kept yet includes many steep curves along with slopes that deliver excitement throughout the bike journey. The escalating water flow during monsoon month makes the falls even more spectacular to observe. Review your motorcycle braking capacity before starting your travel. 4. Betla National Park (170 km from Ranchi) The Betla National Park presents adventurous visitors with a deep maritime experience in its wild terrain. Situated about 170 kilometers outside of Ranchi the wildlife sanctuary shelters various species including the tiger as well as elephant and leopard populations and multiple species of birds. The Betla destination reached by car provides continuous vistas of dense sal forests and rolling hill environments during the extended travel. You can experience two activities in Betla National Park: take a safari to discover the park or walk the designated trails. Sleeping within the jungle noises while gazing at the stars creates an unforgettably special camping experience. 5. Netarhat (156 km from Ranchi) Netarhat exists as the 'Queen of Chotanagpur' among hill stations which reside at a height of 3,700 feet above the ocean's surface. The western Ranchi location approves this destination as its inhabitants enjoy beautiful landscapes and excellent sunrise and sunset viewing spots while benefiting from cool temperatures. Experienced motorcyclists prefer driving to Netarhat because it presents demanding off-road challenges together with windy inclines throughout the whole route. The first stops for visitors at the destination involve witnessing the striking views from Magnolia Point and Koel Viewpoint and Upper Ghaghri Falls. October through February marks the best season to discover Netarhat because the climate remains favorable at this time along with foggy dawn conditions creating additional beauty. 6. Panchghagh Falls (68 km from Ranchi) Panchghagh Falls derives its name from 'five streams' because it features five streams that unite and create an incredible waterfall sight. This destination holds a distance of 68 kilometers from Ranchi yet remains less popular than other local falls. Traversing through rural countryside and forested areas leads travelers to experience peaceful surroundings when heading to Panchghagh Falls. Visitors find the special waterfall formation and pleasing natural setting around the area to be enough reason for a trip despite the lower height compared to other waterfalls. Since there are no professional service stations available in that area you need to bring essential bike tools with you and necessary spare parts for vehicle maintenance. 7. Rajrappa Temple & Waterfall (70 km from Ranchi) Rajrappa Temple stands as a Hindu holy site which unites religious sanctity with natural splendor at a distance of 70 kilometers northeast from Ranchi. The temple of Goddess Chinnamasta stands at the meeting point of Damodar River with Bhera River. The residence of Rajrappa Waterfall creates dual appeal for this travel destination that exists within a short driving distance. On the journey to Rajrappa one drives along limited roads that surround both rocky hills and agricultural domains. The peaceful experience at the temple rituals can be best enjoyed by arriving during early morning hours before traveling back to Ranchi. Final Thoughts From its position on the Chotanagpur Plateau Ranchi gives motorcycle fans unlimited opportunities to discover local natural attractions. The seven touristic destinations in Ranchi area provide opportunities for all visitors to experience thrilling activities alongside peaceful natural encounters. Check that your motorcycle operates optimally before your journey starts while wearing essential safety equipment and organizing activities based on seasonal conditions. The right preparation combined with an adventurous mindset will create unforgettable stories to keep throughout your life from these journeys. Get ready to drive because the perfect vacation experience is about to begin.
Daily Mail
3 days ago
- Daily Mail
Unexpected Spanish area that's got posh, revealed by a travel expert: From incredible hotels and restaurants to amazing sights, you'll NEVER guess where the smart set are now going...
Lying by my infinity pool, listening to a waterfall cascading over rocks carved with Buddha figures, while gazing across palm-filled gardens, it feels like the set of The White Lotus. Yet despite the sumptuous spa and bungalow-style suites at the plush Asia Gardens Hotel, this isn't Bali.
