Rituals
of the land
Mood
Ladakh’s monasteries host several vibrant festivals throughout the year, with ritualistic dances playing a significant role. These dances, performed in traditional costumes against the backdrop of the rugged landscape, create a striking spectacle. Among the most popular festivals is Dosmochey (Dosmoche), typically held in February, to mark the arrival of warmer days as winter ends. If you plan to visit during this time, don’t miss the rhythmic dances performed by monks at the old temple below the magnificent Leh Palace.
Mind
PAGE TURNER
THIS YEAR'S FORMULA ONE SEASON IS COMING TO AN END AND THE DATES FOR THE NEXT COUPLE OF MONTHS ARE OUT. SO, MARK YOUR CALENDAR AND FIND OUT WHAT TO EXPLORE IN THESE DESTINATIONS.
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Expat
Eyes
Meander
I’ve been in India for just 16 months and have visited 12 states in this time, and the variety is immense. And so is the contrast of India with Norway. If you travel up north into the Himalayas, the snow reminds me of Norway, but the mountains are much higher than those back home. So, it is different too. This difference is what attracts Norwegians to India, and hopefully, it will also attract Indians to Norway. I’ve only had a small taste of India and this journey will definitely continue!
Strings
of history
Melody
In Persian, “taus” means peacock. This rare bowed string instrument dates back centuries and yet, its melody continues to move listeners today. Extending the meaning of its name brilliantly, the instrument is often embellished with peacock feathers. Taus has four main strings, each with a wooden peg. The strings — accompanied by an additional 20 strings that add more resonance — run along the fingerboard and pass through a bridge that is commonly made of wood though some have been constructed from ivory or animal bone. In recent times, the traditional instrument has returned to contemporary Gurbani performances (devotional Sikh rendition) at gurdwaras with the help of renowned musicians such as Hindustani classical vocalist Ustad Baljit Singh.
(Dr. Das is a Fellow under the InterGlobe Heritage Fellowships launched and supported by InterGlobe Foundation since 2022 to bring to public consciousness India’s rich built, natural and cultural heritage.)
Matter
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