Dear Brew Readers,
Hope you have had a beautiful beginning of the year. As this year goes on, we are delighted to bring you Brew’s specialty. We look forward to spading through the space of authencity and weaving them meticulously for you.
Our theme being Art, Food and Travel, we have an opportunity to dive through the never ending sea of content. Some seen and some unseen. Some known and unknown. Some learnt and unlearnt. Come join our voyage filled with entertainment and fun. We promise to keep you engaged throughout and hope you enjoy your read as much as we enjoy creating them for you!
Happy reading and happy brewing!
Love, Brew
How cheesy is too cheesy on this particular day? Red roses, exchange of gifts, heart shaped balloons, special dates, kisses and pumped up feelings of excitement; all these circle around a special day. A day where love is in the air; celebrated, witnessed, and acknowledged. Although love is to be celebrated each day, this day is filled with overzealous youngsters, and out of the blue romantics, old lovers reminiscing their cherished times together and being grateful for each other. A day of lovers - Valentine’s day.
Santhosini Appiah
Valentine’s Day, ironically needs no introduction, yet the arrival of the month of February lifts our spirits and puts everyone in their happy places. This feeling of joy is not welcomed because of a day but is embraced because of the love one feels for another. Although this day is celebrated globally, there is no one version indicating the origin of this day. There are several stories that are believed in different parts of the world.
Valentine’s Day Traditions:
The traditions followed during valentine’s day vary from surprising your loved one with a
Saints and Sinners:
The origin of this lovely day has varied beliefs. One of the stories has its origin in Rome. The story begins from the third Century Rome, where the Emperor Claudius II believed that unmarried men made better soldiers. He went ahead and proclaimed a law against young men getting married. Saint Valentine, the heroic and sympathetic catholic saint, rebelled silently against this unjust law by marrying off young lovers in secret ceremonies.
When the emperor found out about this, he ordered Saint Valentine to be executed. Prison might have been gloomy to the rest but Saint Valentine found love at prison. As poetic as it is, he fell in love with the jailor’s daughter and wrote her a letter signed as “From your Valentine.” It is believed that this is the inspiration for modern day expressions. Sadly, this story ended
bouquet of roses, gifting cards, romantic dinner to wedding proposals. In Italy, lovers attach padlocks to bridges to symbolize eternal love. While in South Africa, people pin the names of their secret crushes on their sleeves. In Denmark, people exchange pressed flowers and humorous, anonymous poems.
Modern trends have also given rise to alternative celebrations, such as Galentine’s Day (February 13), which celebrates friendships, and Anti-Valentine’s Day parties for singles. New traditions are always on the rise, but what about the traditions that started it all?
tragically for Saint Valentine, but his death anniversary Feb-14th is celebrated as modern day Valentine’s day.
The First Act of Seduction:
The next bit of history represents the act of Christianisation of a pagan celebration “Lupercalia”. Lupercalia was celebrated in the middle of February as a fertility festival in Rome. It was a festival dedicated to the Roman God of Agriculture - Romulus.
The celebration starts with a sacrifice of goat after which the skin of the goat is stripped, dipped in the sacrificial blood and slapped on women seeking fertility. Although this festival sounds gory, the women welcomed these “blood-stained-slaps” as a blessing.
The women placed their names in a big urn and the eligible men of the city picked random names from the urn. The pair eventually got together and ended up being married.
Cupid - A cherub who showered arrows of Love:
This modern-day mascot for Valentine’s Day is a direct descendant of the Gods. In Greek mythology, Cupid is known as Eros, the god of love and desire, and is often considered the son of Aphrodite and either Ares or, in some versions, Hermes or Zeus. Eros was believed to be a handsome man who played with the feelings of both love and hatred towards others. He used golden arrows to trigger the feeling of love and lead arrows to trigger the feeling of hatred. Modern-day Cupid is famously depicted as a winged boy with a bow and arrow, which he uses to make people fall in love.
Blooms - the coding language of 19th century:
In the 19th century, Valentine’s bouquets weren’t limited to roses—each flower was carefully chosen to convey a hidden message. According to historian Elizabeth White Nelson, author of Market Sentiments: Middle-Class Market Culture in 19th-Century America, flower dictionaries of the time assigned meanings to different blooms, allowing people to express emotions through floral arrangements. Flowers like Snowdrops, Yellow Acacia, and Jonquils were presented to their
loved ones with the secret meanings of hope for the return of their secret admiration, concealed love, and the return of affection respectively. However, these unique flowers were not accessible to everyone due to seasonal changes and bloom. Hence around the late 19th century, red roses mounted the throne of being the ultimate symbol of love.
Chocolates and Celebrations:
Everybody has a sweet spot for chocolates. The little bundle of love, wrapped in a foil, started to attract the horde long before Valentine’s day became popular. Cacao was believed to be a gift from the Gods during the Mayan and Aztec period. They were also directly linked to fertility and romance. Chocolates, prepared from cacao seeds, became popular as a gift for your loved ones during the Victorian-era. Love for chocolate is no mystery. It is nicknamed as the love drug as it contains compounds like phenylethylamine and tryptophan which can trigger feelings of happiness and well-being. Cadbury, was the first to introduce these little love drugs in heart shaped boxes. When the chocolate box is gifted and emptied, the container can be used to store sweet messages, thus creating a life long memory.
Some eccentric Valentine's traditions include Puzzle purses which were once a popular gift, containing secret messages folded into intricate designs. Germany celebrates with heart-shaped gingerbread cookies, often with personal messages. The Philippines hosts mass weddings on February 14 to help couples who cannot afford individual ceremonies.
In Japan, women give chocolates to men on Valentine’s Day, while men return the favor a month later on White Day (March 14). For those still hung up on an ex, some U.S. Zoos offer a humorous form of closure: naming a cockroach after them. Programs like the Bronx Zoo’s "Name a Roach", Chicago’s "Name a Cockroach After Your Ex", and the San Antonio Zoo’s "Cry Me a
Cockroach" fundraiser allow people to name a roach for a small fee, sometimes even sending a certificate to the “honouree.” It’s a light-hearted (and slightly petty) way to turn heartbreak into humour.
Valentine’s Day is more than just flowers, chocolates, and romantic gestures—it’s a celebration of love in all its forms. Whether through heartfelt gifts, acts of kindness, or unique traditions from around the world, the day serves as a reminder to cherish the connections that enrich our lives. Love isn’t limited to romantic relationships; it extends to friends, family, and even self-love. Ultimately, Valentine’s Day is not about grand gestures but about appreciating the people who make life meaningful. Have a Happy Valentine’s Day!
Aishwarya Abhishek Singh
Vrindavan, the sacred land of Lord Krishna, is a place where faith and devotion echo through ancient temple walls. But behind the spiritual grandeur of this holy town lies a silent sorrow - thousands of widowed women, cast away by society, who have made Vrindavan their final refuge. These women, clad in white, live in ashrams and small rented rooms, spending their days singing bhajans, offering prayers, and surviving on meager charity. Their lives are often painted as a tragedy, but beyond their suffering lies a deeper story - one of unwavering faith, quiet strength, and an undying hope for dignity.
The Long Road to Vrindavan
For centuries, Vrindavan has drawn widows from across India, especially from Bengal, Odisha, Assam, and Uttar Pradesh. Some come voluntarily, seeking solace in the land of Krishna. Others are abandoned by their families, cast out after the loss of their husbands. In many traditional households, a widow is considered inauspicious - her presence at celebrations unwelcome, her rights to inheritance often denied, her existence reduced to a life of silence.
The reasons behind this social exclusion are complex, rooted in customs that view marriage as a woman’s ultimate purpose. When a husband passes away, a woman is expected to renounce worldly pleasures, stripping herself of colorful clothes, jewelry, and even the right to participate in social and religious ceremonies. Some find themselves trapped in oppressive environments where they are seen as burdens; others are sent away by their own children. Vrindavan, the city where Lord Krishna is believed to have spent his childhood, becomes their only hope - its sacred aura offering them a sense of belonging when the world has turned its back.
A Life of Worship and Hardship
The widows of Vrindavan wake up before dawn, their day beginning with prayers and hymns at the temples. Many gather at the famous Banke Bihari Temple or the ashrams of Radha Kund to sing bhajans in exchange for a few rupees and a handful of food. Some receive a small pension from the government, while others depend entirely on donations from charitable trusts and kind-hearted devotees.
Organizations work tirelessly to support and provide free meals to a limited number of widows daily. Some of these women, in an act of selfless devotion, help maintain the sacred waters of Radha Kund and Shyam Kund, keeping these holy places clean for visiting pilgrims. Their work is quiet, often unnoticed, yet deeply significant. Despite the sanctity of Vrindavan, the realities of widowhood remain harsh. Some women struggle with illness, malnutrition, and loneliness. With little to no family support, they rely on the kindness of strangers. Yet, even in their suffering, their faith in Krishna remains unshaken. To them, Vrindavan is not a place of exile but a sanctuary where they can live their final days immersed in divine love.
The
Changing Landscape: Hope for Dignity
In recent years, there has been a growing movement to restore dignity to Vrindavan’s widows. Organizations and activists have been working to provide them with better living conditions, vocational training, and healthcare. Some widows have started learning handicrafts, singing devotional songs for recordings, and even celebrating festivals - slowly reclaiming the joys of life that were once denied to them.
One of the most powerful shifts in Vrindavan has been the celebration of Holi by the widows. Traditionally, Holi - the festival of colors - is not meant for them. But in the past few years, these women have broken barriers, participating in the festivities with vibrant joy. As clouds of pink, yellow, and green rise over their white sarees, they challenge the silence that society has imposed upon them. Their laughter, once suppressed, now fills the air, as they remind the world that widowhood is not the end of life.
Beyond Stereotypes: Seeing Them as Individuals
It is easy to view the widows of Vrindavan as mere symbols of suffering, but each woman carries a story of her own - stories of love, loss, sacrifice, and strength. Some were married as teenagers and lost their husbands before they could even understand the meaning of marriage. Others had families, children, and homes, only to be abandoned in their old age. Yet, in the quiet corners of ashrams and temple courtyards, you will also find moments of warmth - women sharing a simple meal, laughing over past memories, or caring for each other like family. They may have been cast away by their own blood, but in Vrindavan, they have found sisterhood.
A Call for Compassion and Change
The plight of Vrindavan’s widows is not just a social issue - it is a reflection of how we, as a society, treat our most vulnerable. While traditions should be respected, they should never come at the cost of human dignity. Widowhood should not mean isolation. It should not mean a lifetime of white sarees, silence, and shadows.
As more organizations step in to provide support, as laws evolve to protect women’s rights, and as mindsets shift towards inclusion rather than exclusion, there is hope that the future will be kinder to these women. But true change begins with awareness and compassion. It is not just the
duty of governments and charities - it is upon every individual to ensure that no woman, in any corner of India, has to suffer the pain of abandonment after losing her husband. The widows of Vrindavan have found their sanctuary in the divine love of Krishna.
But they deserve more than just survival; they deserve dignity, love, and the right to live fully. As we walk through the sacred streets of this temple town, let us not just see them as symbols of tradition, but as human beings - women who have endured pain yet continue to find strength in their faith. Their prayers are not just for themselves but for all of us. And perhaps, in honoring their resilience, we find a lesson in devotion, love, and the unbreakable spirit of the human soul.
Dhruv Pandey
Hold on tight, even if you think you know them. I'm going to tell you a narrative of survivors, healers, musicians, and craftspeople, not simply nomads. Indeed, even if Peaky Blinders may have piqued your interest, the whole tale is more complex than any movie on television could depict.
Their adventure started from India. Yes! Around 1000 CE, the Romani people, who have their origins in the sun-drenched areas of Punjab and Rajasthan, undertook one of the most amazing migrations in history. They were expert musicians, craftspeople, and traders who transported their trades across continents, so their founding societies weren't just any old bunch. This Indian heritage has been verified by genetic research, which has shown strong ties to various Indian communities, especially the Dom people of northern India.
Their language itself is the proof. With strong ties to Sanskrit and Hindi, modern Romani nevertheless bears the echoes of its Indian roots. Words for basic ideas like "fish" (machho) and "water" (pani) are still nearly the same as their Indian equivalents. Their amazing journey from the Indian subcontinent to the great reaches of Europe and beyond is documented in every word they speak.
Their migration was a slow, multigenerational movement rather than a single, spectacular occurrence. They made their way over the mountain passes of Persia, the highlands of Armenia, and into the Byzantine Empire like skilled weavers weaving a complex tapestry. They picked up advanced metallurgical skills and Persian vocabulary while they were in Persia. Similar to how Persian musical styles impacted their ancient tunes, the Persian term for "life" (zindagi) also entered their language.
An important turning point in their voyage was the Byzantine Empire. Around 1100 CE, they were first mentioned in historical accounts as being talented musicians, artisans, and fortune tellers. Greek writings called them "Atsingani," a title that would later be used to refer to the Romani people by a number of different European names. They created the social systems that would enable them to withstand centuries of persecution at this time.
Romani families established themselves as essential artisans in mediaeval European cities. They were renowned for their ability to mend the irreparable, turn junk into jewels, and make tools that would last for centuries. At a time when such information was scarce and valuable, they were able to decipher the mysteries of tempering metal. Farmers and soldiers alike were interested in their method for producing and preserving the ideal edge on a blade.
Their rhythms spoke a common language that cut beyond boundaries, and their melodies had the power to halt strangers in their tracks. The Romani have made an incalculable contribution to European music. Their musical influence may be heard in both contemporary pop songs and classical compositions, from Spanish flamenco to Hungarian verbunkos. In Western music, the characteristic use of the "Gipsy scale"—with its augmented second intervals—has come to define emotional expression.
The community's women were frequently healers, with age-old herbal and remedy expertise that had been handed down through the centuries. Their knowledge of medicinal herbs blended European, Persian, and Indian customs. They knew just when to collect medicinal plants for optimal efficacy and could recognise them in any landscape. In addition, these women worked as counsellors and midwives, positions that both respected and alarmed settled societies.
Their trip is narrated through their culinary customs. Their cuisine reflected a blending of cultures, ranging from spiced stews and Indian flatbreads to openfired versions of European foods. The Roma adopted the Indian "puri" as their "purum," and their use of particular spice combinations shows Persian influences. They upheld rigid rules around meal preparation and sharing, customs that preserved their cultural identity and bolstered family ties.
Built around the extended family unit known as "kumpania," the Romani social structure proved essential to their survival. By specialising in specific crafts and trades, each Kumpania established a network of knowledge and abilities that could support the community. Youngsters were taught their family's crafts from an early age, while the elderly were regarded as archivists of knowledge and custom. Both economic survival and cultural preservation were guaranteed by this system.
However, these talented nomads weren't always treated well in Europe. As a tool of marginalisation, the term "Gypsy" was employed to excuse exclusion and persecution. They were forced to live on the periphery of civilization after cities implemented laws prohibiting them from settling. There were areas where Romani children were abducted from their parents by force in order to be "civilized." In a harsh world, their extensive family networks offered safety and support, and their waggons served as both a home and an escape route.
The darkest period in their history was the Holocaust. Between 220,000 and 500,000 Romani people were killed in this genocide, which is known in Romani as the "Porajmos" (the eating). They were targeted by the Nazis not just because of their race but also because of what they stood for: opposition to assimilation, independence from governmental authority, and preservation of their unique cultural identity. Centuries of customs and tales were lost when entire family lines disappeared in concentration camps. However, their attitude remained unwavering even throughout these most difficult times. Romani musicians in camps are said to have surreptitiously included messages of resistance and hope into the songs they were made to perform for their captors
There are approximately 10 and 12 million Romani people in the globe today. From America to Australia, from Spain to Romania, these communities have adapted and prospered while preserving their unique cultural identities. Physicians, solicitors, educators, and artists are examples of modern Romani professionals who follow a special route that combines traditional beliefs with modern lifestyles. Romani dancers and musicians have transcended decades of discrimination to become cultural ambassadors in nations like Spain and Hungary.
A resurgence of culture is being led by the younger generation. By using activism and education to dispel prejudices, they are proudly reclaiming their past. Young Roma share their cultural heritage on social media, from traditional dance and song to contemporary takes on age-old traditions. By studying their own history, young Romani academics are recovering stories that have long been dominated by foreigners.
Their creative output still has an impact on world culture. Jazz music was transformed in the 20th century by Romani guitarist Django Reinhardt.
Romani musicians now work with musicians from a variety of genres, bringing their classic melodies and rhythms to fresh life in modern works. Their experiences are being portrayed in literature and film, this time from their own point of view, and their traditional crafts are becoming recognised as beautiful art.
The Romani people have both chances and problems as they look to the future. Even though discrimination still exists in various forms, younger generations are becoming more politically conscious and educated, which is enabling them to defend their rights and preserve their distinctive cultural legacy. Their narrative shows us that cultural survival is preserving one's essential identity while interacting with and enhancing the wider environment, not isolating oneself.
Pay serious attention to what they have to say. It is a live, breathing example of the human spirit's tenacity, inventiveness, and capacity for perpetual rebirth; it is more than just history. The Romani people serve as a reminder that diversity is something to appreciate, learn from, and embrace in a society that frequently fears difference.
Sahana Subramanya
Famously known to contemporaneously explore dark and surreal concepts of raw, emotional situations, David Lynch took film making to a whole new realm. Blending mystery with the ordinary, he instilled a sense of contemplation in you, while interpreting his movie plot. David Lynch was a gifted man with the art of filmmaking. He donned many caps by being an actor, musician and a visual craftsman. His passing, only leaves us welled up with emotions, driving us to celebrate his life and work, for many years to come.
David Lynch, A True Enigma
For Lynch, making cinema meant that he wanted to please himself, more than anything. He challenged himself each time he came up with a new storyline, pushing boundaries to reach his own epitome. His talent through the knack for acting, screenplay and music, made him one of the most versatile minds in global cinema. He became an OG in the industry and people celebrated him for this very image that he created. Though there were some not so good movies like the Dune from 1984, being one of the
most flawed movies, he had a huge fan following the Lynchian way. There were significant takeaways from these failures such as the psychedelic elements that clicked amongst many, making it one of the classics.
His movie ideologies
The way the most famous movie critic of modern cinema, Roger Ebbert has always had a special corner for Lynch is special. Lynch was appealing to him in a way through his ideas that were usually unimaginable and daring. His initial view on Lynch’s movies, was one of being hesitant, that delayed his chances of reviewing them.
The very essence of the raw, unsettling emotions made Ebbert back off from watching his movies, let alone be a critique for them. Later, his mindset for his work slowly changed after being introduced to “The Straight Story” giving him a wholesome revelatory experience in the end. And from then, there is no turning back, as he almost looked forward to a David Lynch movie whenever a new one released.
Such was the impact of a Lynch’s movie, where it changed the perspective of anyone watching it, instantly making the viewers get hooked onto. He was a visionary, and his movies set a benchmark for depicting the unbearable realities of life.
Lynch’s Angle as a Critique to Film Making
If you have a dark side to you, and would want someone to interact with it, David Lynch’s movies are the ideal choice. When you feel hesitant to let out the forlorn hollowness in front of anyone, you would relate better to his movies rather. Such was the intriguing comfort one would get through his work. Life’s horrendous situations and the weirdness in one’s existence were accurately depicted by his movies like Mulholland Drive. Here, you may see that his concepts were distorted, however, it was the absolute truth, and there is no shying away from it.
Life’s horrendous situations and the weirdness in one’s existence were accurately depicted by his movies like Mulholland Drive. Here, you may see that his concepts were distorted, however, it was the absolute truth, and there is no shying away from it.
David Lynch brought the art of poetry into his movies, depicting the nuances of influential perceptions of life, that can significantly change life’s meaning altogether. Movies like The Elephant Man brought in dark revelations of survival and contradicted social inclusivity, while movies like Blue Velvet saw a sense of positive outcome at the end of the movie, which is highly unlikely when it comes to Lynchian movies. As mentioned earlier, he was his own critique, when it came to cinema.
Took drama to another level through Twin Peaks
With a huge fan following base created for this renowned television series from the 90-91 era, Twin Peaks was one of the most gripping suspense series at that time. Later, the usual works of Lynch become unfinished, or not up to the mark with the endings, as the beginning was. Due to which, the Twin Peaks series also received some mixed reactions with the onset of a disengagement between Lynch and Frost.
A few episodes were so impactful, that it left many contemplating on the gritty murder plot of Laura Palmer, with the season eventually fading due to several negative reviews. Later on again, it gained momentum with the interests of the millennials, which again led them to bring about a sequel, just like how Laura spoke to Agent Cooper of returning back after 25 years. Exactly happening, as it was released with a few new plots and twists in the year 2014.
Brought out the best out of bring human giving through Blue Velvet
After the Box Office downfall of his 1984 movie, Dune, Blue Velvet can arguably be deemed as a comeback movie that established him as a noted figure in the world of cinema. The way Lynch has planned through every stich in the story that he weaved, makes it a classic masterpiece. In Blue Velvet, lies a sleazy underside to the surreal part of the story, where he depicts that there can be faint light at the end of an ongoing dark tunnel. This was a surprise to many, as it somehow contradicted the other Lynchian movies, which led him to gain a larger and more diverse fanbase, than ever before.
Artistic and Creative Success Through Acting, Screenplay and Music
A few movies of David Lynch showed the path to many in aspects of artistic vision, emotional impact and unique story telling. While The Elephant Man featured the best of Lynch's signature style of showing grit and compassion together, is the best example of the emotional impact it creates on the viewers and eventually being nominated 8 times for the Academy Awards.
Similarly, in Lost Highway and Mulholland Drive, both were critically acclaimed, though they did not fare so well at the Box Office. These movies had depth in storytelling, striking visual appeal in many
scenes and the overall theme based on the stories. The impact of these movies were so much, that there began a cult that diligently followed the Lynchian way for the years to come. This inspired filmmakers to explore the diabolical aspects of societal situations and portray them in their movies, only to be etched in people’s subconscious.
David Lynch’s last cameo role in the Fablemans as an idolic figure, John Ford, playing a shrewd auteur, loud and brash, is an appearance worth remembering. The semi-autobiographical movie of none other than Stephen Spielsberg captures the harsh reality of succeeding in the field of cinema. And this movie also was critically acclaimed, with many nominations to its credit.
Early Years as a Painter
David Lynch was an avid painter in his early years, as his family moved a lot, and he used to stay glued to a sheet, painting for hours, depicting the skies and earth in the most creative way. Lynch studied art at the Corcoran School of Art in Washington, D.C., and then the School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston and later at PAFA. He took inspiration from the greats of Freud, Basquiat, Francis Bacon and many others, leading to the creation of his first 60-second animation movie.
Paying Tribute to the Greatest Filmmaker!
With many awards such as Best Director at the Cannes Film Festival in 2001 drama, Mulholland Drive, Palme d'Or for Wild at heart during 1990, and 4 Oscars to his credit, David Lynch is nothing short of an encyclopedia of uncanny realms and deep conceptualisation in film making. Quoting Lynch in an interview with Lynn Barber, “Yes, he’s gone, and we’re standing here now and just in a flash there’ll be another group standing here and we’ll be gone.” Such was the simplicity and understanding of life for him, that is beyond our contemplation!
Anmol Mishra
Regions and Their Iconic Ingredients
1.
Truffle Hunting in Piedmont, Italy
In Piedmont, Italy, truffles are not just ingredients; they’re treasures, carefully unearthed from the cool soil beneath oak and beech trees. The white coveted truffle is incredibly rare and aromatic, earning the nickname “white gold.” The truffle hunt itself is an experience. Expert hunters and their trained dogs sniff out these treasures in the early morning hours to maximize the chances of finding truffles. At the Alba White Truffle Festival, travelers can sample truffle-infused dishes and witness live auctions. Here, tasting a dish seasoned with freshly shaved truffle is like tasting Piedmont’s essence.
2. Saffron Harvesting in Khorasan, Iran
In the golden fields of Khorasan, Iran, saffron crocuses bloom in October and November, producing the vivid red threads that make saffron one of the world’s most precious spices. Iran produces over 90% of the global saffron supply, and its high price stems from the laborintensive process. The harvest involves families rising before dawn to pick flowers while they’re still closed, preserving the spice’s delicate flavor. Saffron’s history in Persian culture runs deep; it was traded along the Silk Road and continues to infuse Persian cuisine, from
3. Vanilla Orchids in Madagascar
Madagascar’s warm, humid climate and volcanic soil create ideal conditions for growing vanilla. Each orchid blooms for just 24 hours, requiring hand-pollination, which is a precise task for skilled farmers. After harvest, green vanilla beans undergo a meticulous curing process that takes months to develop their complex flavor. Madagascar’s vanilla plantations welcome travelers to learn about this painstaking process, offering tours where visitors can inhale the exotic, intoxicating aroma of vanilla in its purest form.
4.
In Andalusia, Spain, olive groves stretch for miles, their silver-green leaves shimmering under the Mediterranean sun. The mild winters and warm summers make this region one of the top producers of the world’s finest olive oil, revered for its fruity flavor and golden color. During harvest, both traditional and modern methods are used to press the olives into liquid gold. Andalusian olive oil is often enjoyed raw, with locals saying, 'You can taste the sun in every drop. Travelers can immerse themselves in olive oil festivals that showcase tastings, cooking demonstrations, and cultural performances, immersing visitors in Andalusia’s rich traditions. And just like olive oil, Quebec’s maple syrup harvest brings its own unique flavor to the mix.
Olive Groves in Andalusia, Spain
5. Maple Syrup Harvest in Quebec, Canada
Quebec’s forests come alive each spring with the maple syrup harvest, a tradition where the sap of sugar maple trees is tapped and boiled down into the beloved syrup, also known as 'liquid gold.' Quebec produces over 70% of the world’s maple syrup supply. Visitors to sugar shacks, or cabanes à sucre, can watch syrup being poured over the snow to create 'tire d’érable,' a traditional taffy treat. Travelers can experience the entire process of sugaring
Colombia’s Coffee Triangle, the mountainous region with its volcanic soil and lush climate creates perfect conditions for cultivating Arabica beans, which are known for their balanced flavor and vibrant aroma. Farmers in Caldas, Quindío, and Risaralda handpick only the ripest beans to ensure top quality. In Colombia, coffee isn’t just a drink; it’s a way of life. Known as el oro negro or black gold, it carries the heart and heritage of the country. Every cup fuels conversations and strengthens community bonds. Visiting family-run farms here is like stepping into Colombia’s soul. Travelers can join guided tours to see the care and craft that go into roasting, grinding, and brewing. With each sip, you’re not just tasting coffee—you’re savoring the land and the passion of its people.
7. Spices of Kerala,
India
Kerala, often called the 'Land of Spices,' is where food, culture, and history blend seamlessly. For centuries, its black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves have been coveted treasures in the global spice trade. Imagine walking through the lush Western Ghats, where the air hums with the earthy aroma of sun-dried peppercorns and the sharp citrusy tang of freshly crushed cardamom. Here, spice cultivation isn’t just a practice—it’s an art, passed down through generations.
You can watch this magic unfold, try grinding your own spice blends, or even join the vibrant Spice Route Culinary Festival in Kochi. This annual celebration brings to life Kerala’s rich spice heritage and its remarkable influence on global cuisine. From spices to sweet indulgences, we've traveled across continents to uncover these culinary treasures. As we wrap up this journey, it’s clear that each ingredient not only flavors a dish but also tells the story of a region, its people, and its heritage. So, next time you're hungry for an adventure, think about the flavors you could discover. Every ingredient has a story, and each dish can take you to places and cultures that will stay with you long after the last bite.
6. Coffee Cultivation in Colombia’s Coffee Triangle
This second largest continent boasts of diverse landscapes – The Savannah, the endless deserts, towering mountains, lush green dense rainforests, longest flowing rivers… Oh! So beautiful! Well, the diversity does not just limit itself to the landscapes in Africa. How many of us know that Africa is the “Cradle of Humankind”? As far back as we can trace and date our civilization – it all started here in Africa! Very rightfully called the “ALKEBULAN” – The Mother of Mankind, it is home to over 3,000 ethnic groups and tribes. Africa has a rich historical significance and a major influence on modern day civilizations.
Rekha Padiki
A tribe often refers to a group of people who belong to the same ancestry, follow similar traditions, have cultural similarities and above all speak and understand a common dialect. They are often connected biologically, religiously and socially and often share a single geographical area. Among many of the tribes that distinctively represent the very essence of African culture and its values, here are a few :
MAASAI: Location: Kenya and Tanzania
Imagine a beautiful Savannah landscape at the backdrop, safari vehicles, a herd of cattle grazing and a red – clad slender figure standing at the far end… Yes, that red – clad figure is a Maasai, a common sight among many African safaris. Maasai basically means people who speak “MAA”.
Two very distinctive features that make a Maasai stand out are vibrant, colorful beaded jewelry and red checkered blankets/Shukkas. Maasai were once fearless warriors of the land and pastoralists. The color red is predominantly considered sacred and
symbolizes bravery, orange – for hospitality and friendship, blue – for an all-providing almighty sky, green – for nourishment and life, yellow – for fertility. Maasai for sure knew their colors!
Among many practices, “Adamu”, a jumping dance, is extremely popular in Maasai. This is a dance form where eligible bachelors dance and jump to great heights to win a bride. Higher the jump, the better the bride. Being a warrior descend, agility and fitness comes naturally, helping them jump higher. Maasai, a grazer – hunter tribe is a semi – nomadic clan that keeps moving in search of better food for their cattle.
They are extremely cautious about maintaining the sanctity of the land, as to not cause any damage to the forest or the wildlife and hence they migrated periodically giving the forest natural and plenty of time to regrow. A perfect natural harmony! A Maasai with a large number of cattle is considered rich and affluent, more cattle would make him a worthy groom. They are also known for their intricate handmade beaded jewelry and their unique hairstyle and face painting.
HIMBA/OVA HIMBA: Location: Northern Namibia
Peculiar hairstyles, red – ochre body color, intricate jewelry describe this unique tribe – Himba. Believed to be the successors of the Herero people of Angola, this tribe is considered the most beautiful, the most distinctive and visibly striking. They have a strong connection and bonding to their livestock, their land and their spiritual beliefs. Himba strongly believed in their ancestors, who they believed would talk to god and worshiped those ancestors in the form of fire –Okuruwo, a fire that is never allowed to douse. Each family has a fire – keeper who constantly monitors it and never lets it go off.
The Himba is considered the most hard working tribe. The women and men distinctively divide their responsibilities; the women of the clan work harder owing to the rough and arid Namib desert. Women go to extreme lengths in search of water in the scorching heat. Due to its lack and scarcity, water is the most precious commodity here. Women of this clan, ‘do not bathe’, instead, they gather herbs and shrubs from the forest and smoke them inside a room and sit inside
that closed room – simulating a modern day steam bath. Such is the scarcity of water. These herbs are believed to have medicinal properties and have a mild fragrance.
Himba women are coated from head to toe in a red body paint called Otjize, a mixture of butter, animal fat, powdered hematite, perfumed with Omuzumba (a shrub resin). This unique practice of the Himba distinguishes them from others. This body coat is believed to protect hair and skin from sun damage and lock the moisture in the skin.
This is the main reason for the beautiful and radiant skin of the Himba women. The coating on hair aids unique hairstyles and braids. These hairstyles signifies the social status and the marital status of a woman, definitely more than a fashion statement! A clean shaven head, braids facing forward or backward all mean different things. EREMBE, a crown like ornament made of sheepskin is included in the hairstyle symbolizing a woman is married and has delivered children. Their resilience and hard working nature is a remarkable example of their willingness to survive.
ZULU: Location: South Africa
The largest and most famous tribe of South Africa with an East - African origin who migrated during the Bantu migration. ZULU were a small tribe but during the early 19th century under the rule of King Shaka Zulu, they flourished and grew sizably in number.
Zulu have and maintained strong bond and connection to their roots while embracing modernity. Zulu still flaunt their traditional clothing on special occasions. Zulu are warm people who value human relationships and connections. It is the Zulu who pioneered the thought of “UBUNTU” – humanity to others, a philosophy of we are who we are not because of individuals but because of who we ALL are! The concept of “we” and not “I”.
Besides being great humans, they are extremely skilled in pottery and earthenware, weaving, bead work, and jewelry making. Each pattern they made, each color they used had its own significance.
Their gender, social status and marital status were depicted, for example: a triangle represented a girl, while an inverted triangle meant a boy. If 2 triangles are joined at the base, it meant that the woman was married, if the tips of the triangle joined, it meant that the man was married.
Zulu were also aggressive warriors, agriculturalists, cattle herders. King Shaka Zulu influenced their expansion and they grew in large numbers, their military power grew, they grew in strength and boundaries. This flourishing tribe fell prey to colonialism around 1879, despite this, they continued to survive.
Zulu are ardent believers in ancestral spirits and the cause and effect and attributed good luck and bad luck to their ancestors especially to those who held high positions when alive. Pleasing and praying to such spirits would keep them happy is what they believed. Sacrificial offerings during special occasions like marriage, childbirth were a big deal to them.
HADZA TRIBE: Location: Northern Tanzania
Being the largest and oldest of the inhabitants of Africa, the Hadza tribe is believed to pre – date the Bantu speakers. They had settlements around Olduvai Gorge, known originally as the cradle of mankind, since the early fossils were found there. This location being close to the archaeologically important sites, put the Hadza tribe’s existence around the later part of Stone Age.
Sadly, now they are at the brink of non – existence; they are the last of the hunter – gatherer tribe. They relied heavily on hunting for food and never believed in growing or storing food, nor did they have any livestock. They made temporary settlements for themselves as they had a nomadic lifestyle. As unique as themselves, the Hadza tribe has an equally unique language, Hadzane, in which clicking of the tongue and popping sounds are the greater part of communication.
Being hunters, they are heavily dependent on natural resources, hence, they believe strongly in leaving as little footprint in nature as possible. Both male and female have their duties clearly defined for them. Men are hunters, hunt, kill and gather meat and honey. The women are specialists in gathering and collecting berries, greens and eggs. As hunter-gatherers, their diet had a lot of variety, meat formed the staple along with a variety of fruits, tubers and honey. As they heavily depended on nature for food, their diet was seasonal as well. Like other tribes, they also believed in worshipping spirits and nature. They believed that the spirits are
all around them – in trees, in stones and in animals too. They did not have a formal religious practice or a single form of deity. Nature was their deity. Since they led a nomadic life, they had amazing knowledge of forest and their survival skills were “roof top”.
Their connection to the forest is deep, complete and just perfect. They believed in all natural dressing, they wore clothes made from tree bark or animal hides. Their clothes were designed to be functional and modest. Like every other tribe – Hadza also decorated themselves with heavy beaded jewelry – necklaces, bracelets. Their jewelry depicts their social status and personal achievements. Sadly today, their rich knowledge of forests seems to have fallen prey to modernization.
Diverse culture, language, tradition, rituals and people. From the hunter – gatherers of San, Hadza to the pastoral and semi - nomadic Zulu, Maasai, Africa has everything and is complete. Each tribe living here has a different history and a story to tell, the story of their existence, their perseverance, their survival…each giving a deep understanding of the evolution of mankind, and man’s capability to survive every odd.
Humankind has always been resilient to evolve, to learn, to implement and move on. Africa gives us such valuable lessons, the knowledge of coexistence, respect to nature, deep rooted cultural values, respect to the dead and staying connected to our roots. Come experience this harmony between nature and mankind.
Santhosini Appiah
Imagine the lights dimming, the crowd buzzing with anticipation, and then—bam—the spotlight hits, and the first note of your favorite song fills the air. Vibrant costumes, mesmerizing dance moves, a sea of heads swaying in sync, and a killer voice that controls it all. There’s no feeling quite like it. Concerts are more than just events; they are experiences—man-made heavens on earth for music lovers. And let's be real,who doesn’t love good music? Picture this: A powerful figure on stage, like a modern-day sorceress, wielding magic in the form of mesmerizing melodies, weaving a spell that takes over the entire crowd. It almost feels like witchcraft. But, in truth, concerts have their roots in something far more fascinating—a journey that began centuries ago.
The Origins of Concerts: A Long Time Coming
Concerts didn’t always look like the grand spectacles we know today. In fact, the first gatherings were much more modest. It all started in the late 17th century at universities like Cambridge and Oxford, where small gatherings of music lovers would come together to listen to performances. It wasn’t until after World War II that concerts began to evolve into the vibrant, modern events we now know and love.
The Pandemic Pause: Music Goes Quiet
When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, live music came to a standstill. Lockdowns, restrictions, and canceled tours silenced concert halls around the world. Artists turned to live-streaming, and fans got creative with virtual experiences. But as anyone who’s been to a live concert knows, nothing compares to the energy and connection that comes
with being in the same room as your favorite artist. In 2020, the live music industry lost a staggering $30 billion globally.
The Return of the Beat: Fans Hungry for Live Music
Once restrictions began to lift, the hunger for live music was palpable. After years of isolation, fans were more eager than ever to be in the crowd, singing, dancing, and feeling the magic in person again.
Take tours by the likes of Rod Stewart, Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Coldplay, and BTS—these artists shattered records with their ticket sales, selling out arenas across the globe. Fans flew in from all corners of the world to witness their idols live. And in Rio de Janeiro, a historic moment unfolded when Rod Stewart performed for a crowd of 3.5
million people on New Year’s Eve, setting the record for the largest free concert audience in history. This unforgettable event marked the true power of live music.
The Concert Boom: From Radio to Streaming to Sold-Out Arenas
For Millennials, discovering new music meant listening to the radio or popping in a cassette. Fastforward to today, and fans can access an endless world of music on platforms like Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Music with just a few taps. But the magic of live concerts? That feeling is something you can’t replicate through headphones.
Concerts are a once-in-a-lifetime experience where you’re not just listening to music—you’re living it. You’re surrounded by thousands of people who share your love for the same songs. It’s pure magic.
Today’s youth are more connected than ever, and the power of social media has only heightened the desire to witness their idols live in action. Fans are now willing to travel across cities, countries, and even continents just for the chance to be part of the electric atmosphere that only a live concert can provide.
The Spark and Lustre: A Sensory Overload of Magic
Technology has taken concerts to another level. With the help of social media, artists are reaching global audiences, and international tours have become the norm. Today’s concerts are not just performances— they are immersive, multi-sensory experiences.
Imagine Taylor Swift jumping into a hole on stage, only for a screen to show her swimming across the stage in real-time, all while in the same outfit. It’s this kind of innovation that takes a concert from “good” to “mind-blowing.”
Iconic Music Festivals:
A
Global Celebration of Music
Some music festivals have reached legendary status for their ability to bring together massive crowds and deliver unforgettable performances:
• Coachella (USA): Held in the Coachella Valley, California, this iconic festival features an incredible lineup across all genres of music and has become a cultural phenomenon.
• Glastonbury Festival (UK): With a rich mix of music, dance, theater, and more, this festival in Somerset, England, is the ultimate celebration of contemporary performing arts.
• Tomorrowland (Belgium): A dream for electronic dance music fans, this festival in Boom, Belgium, transports attendees into a futuristic fantasy realm of lights and music.
• Lollapalooza (USA and International Editions): From Chicago to Brazil to India, this festival brings together artists from alternative rock to EDM for an unforgettable experience.
And that’s just the beginning! Festivals like Rock in Rio, South by Southwest, and Summerfest continue to captivate fans year after year.
India’s Concert Boom: A Melting Pot of Music and Culture
In India, the concert scene has evolved dramatically. From the rich, traditional Carnatic music to the global reach of rock, pop, and EDM, concert tourism in India has grown by 30% in recent years.
International acts like Coldplay, Led Zeppelin, and Diljit Dosanjh have toured India, sparking a new era of live music in the country. India’s live events industry is booming, with over 26,000 live events in 2023. Notable festivals include:
• NH7 Weekender (Pune): Often called "India’s happiest music festival," it offers a mix of indie, rock, and electronic acts.
• Sunburn Festival (Goa): Asia’s largest EDM festival, attracting international DJs like Martin Garrix and David Guetta.
• Lollapalooza India (Mumbai): Featuring big international names like Shawn Mendes, Green Day, and Indian artists.
• Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres Tour (Mumbai): Fans flocked to witness the iconic band perform live, singing anthems like "Fix You" and "Yellow."
Concerts and the Economy: More Than Just Entertainment
Concerts aren’t just about fun and entertainment— they’re an economic powerhouse. Take Taylor Swift’s "Eras Tour," which generated a staggering $5.7 billion in economic impact in the U.S. alone. Here’s how:
• Ticket Sales: Concerts generate millions in ticket sales, though the rise of scalping continues to be an issue, with resellers often charging exorbitant prices.
• Job Creation: From event management and marketing to sound engineering and security, concerts create a wide array of jobs.
• Artist Income: Live performances often serve as artists' primary revenue source, helping them sustain their careers.
• Hospitality and Tourism: Large concerts attract thousands of visitors, benefiting local
hotels, restaurants, and transportation services.
• Retail Sales: Merchandising, food, and drink sales all see a boost, especially in concert hubs.
• Cultural Impact: Concerts draw tourists, contributing to the cultural and economic vibrancy of cities around the world.
The Bright Future of Live Music
Despite the setbacks caused by the pandemic, live music is making an explosive comeback. Music, as it turns out, has the incredible ability to heal, inspire, and unite us. And as the world finds its new normal, live concerts remain a shining beacon of joy, connection, and shared experiences.
For fans and artists alike, the future looks brighter than ever. The stage is set for a new golden age of live music, where every note, every beat, and every lyric will once again bring people together in ways only music can.
Vaishnavi M R
You must have heard the term Vikings, perhaps from the popular TV series "Vikings," or from history books describing these fierce warriors who once ruled the northern seas. These warriors, with their giant ships and horned helmets (though historians tell us they never actually wore those!) are brought to life in a way that’s hard to imagine. Now, imagine spending a winter night in a place where Vikings aren't just characters from the past. They're very much alive, walking the streets with flaming torches, their faces glowing in the firelight.
I’m talking about Up Helly Aa, a fire festival that turns the town of Lerwick in Scotland into something breathtaking every January. You can imagine the streets of Lervick, Shetland’s capital, on a cold winter evening, with a thousand people dressed as Vikings. They're carrying blazing torches through narrow streets, following their leader - Guizer Jarl, or the Chief Viking. And then there’s that beautiful Viking ship they've spent months building... only to set it on fire in a spectacular display that lights up the winter sky. If you're wondering why anyone would build a beautiful ship just to burn it, or why an entire Scottish town turns Viking for a day, well, that's exactly what I wondered when I first heard about this festival. And honestly, the story behind it is just as wild and amazing as the festival itself.
Vikings in Scotland? Here's the Story
To understand Up Helly Aa, we need to travel back to the 1880s when Shetland's winter nights were quite different. Back then, Christmas and New Year celebrations in Lerwick were wild affairs, with young men dragging burning barrels of tar through the streets and causing general mayhem. The town authorities, understandably concerned, decided to channel this fiery enthusiasm into something more organized, and Up Helly Aa came into the picture.
But why Vikings? Well, that's where Shetland's heritage comes in. These islands weren't always Scottish. They were Norse territory until 1469, when they were transferred to Scotland as part of a Danish princess's dowry. The Viking blood runs deep here; you can hear it in the local dialect, see it in names of place, and feel it in traditions passed down through generations.
The festival as we know it today took shape gradually. The Viking theme wasn't part of the original celebration but emerged as Shetlanders began reconnecting with their Norse heritage. The role of the Guizer Jarl was introduced in 1906, and it quickly became one of the most prestigious positions in Shetland society. Today's Jarls take their roles incredibly seriously. They spend
years preparing, studying Viking history, and choosing which Norse character they'll portray. The galley, hands down the festival’s most iconic symbol, is a labor of love built over months of dedication and skill. A team of local volunteers works together to build it using old Viking designs. They carefully craft every part, from the dragon head at the front to the shields along its sides. The 30-foot ship stands for just one day before it's set ablaze, following the old Norse way of sending chiefs to Valhalla on burning ships.
To become the Guizer Jarl, you need patience - about 15 years of it. While waiting their turn, squad members help run the festival and learn its customs. When their time comes, they spend thousands of pounds on Viking costumes and gear for their big day.
March of the Vikings
As the winter sun sets around 3:30 PM in Lerwick, the town starts buzzing with excitement. Children rush home from school, shops close early, and streets begin to fill with people. Before the evening festivities begin, there's a photo opportunity at the Bressay Ferry Terminal, where the Jarl's Squad poses with their magnificent galley - a moment that photographers, both amateur and pro, absolutely live for.
The moment it all comes together is at 7:30 PM, when a rocket shoots into the dark sky. At that moment, the street lights go dark, and the town plunges into darkness, but only for a second. Suddenly, a thousand torches light up at once, held high by men called Guizers. They're divided into squads, each with their own costumes, but it's the Jarl's Squad that catches everyone's eye. In their gleaming Viking armor, they lead the procession through Lerwick's narrow streets, pulling their galley behind them. The whole town comes alive.
Families bundle up against the cold, finding their favorite spots along the route. Some watch from windows, while others brave the winter chill, stamping their feet to keep warm. The guizers know every person watching; they're their neighbors, colleagues, and friends. As they march, they sing the Up Helly Aa song, their voices carrying through the winter air, while the galley, pulled by the Jarl's Squad, makes its way to its final destination.
Music, Whisky & Dancing Until Dawn
When the galley burns in a raging inferno, it's not the end. It's just the beginning. The night turns into a celebration that locals call "the halls." All across Lerwick, community halls open their doors, each hosted by a different squad. Inside, you'll find music, dancing, and performances that go on till sunrise. The guizers visit each hall in turn, changing into different costumes for each venue. They perform skits, sing songs, or put on short comedy acts. The whole town becomes one big party, fusing traditional Shetland music with modern tunes. And here's a little tradition that keeps everyone involved; every guizer has to share a dance with at least one lady at each hall and enjoy a warming dram of whisky before moving on. Tea and sandwiches appear at midnight, followed by bowls of warm soup in the early hours to keep the dancing going until dawn. What makes these celebrations special is that they're private, you can only attend if you're invited by a local. It's a tradition that keeps the festival true to its community roots, where neighbors celebrate with neighbors, and every hall has its own unique atmosphere.
Keeping the Flame Alive in Every Community
While Lerwick's Up Helly Aa might be the biggest, it's not the only one. From January to March, different communities across Shetland host their own fire festivals. Each has its own traditions: South Mainland allows women to participate as guizers, while in Northmavine, the whole community joins in building their galley. Bressay, Cullivoe, and Norwick each do their own thing to make the celebration unique. These smaller festivals might not draw the same crowds as Lerwick, but they're just as important to their communities, keeping the Viking spirit alive across the islands.
Passing the Torch, Year After Year
Up Helly Aa isn’t just Europe’s largest fire festival; it’s a living example of how traditions can grow and thrive when a community comes together. In a time when so many traditions are fading, this celebration gets stronger every year, passing from one generation to the next. It reminds us that sometimes the most meaningful traditions aren't the oldest ones, but those that bring people together. As the last embers of the galley fade and the sun rises over Shetland, plans are already being made for next year's festival, keeping this unique celebration burning bright.
