Aarathi Arun Nandita Vijayaraghavan Divya K Purushotham
Sahana Subramanya Lekhashree Natarajan
Aparna P Kochumon Anagha Natraj Pranav Radee
Vaishnavi M R
Abinaya Subramanian Aishwarya Kanchi
Aishwarya Kanchi Aarathi Arun Veejay Sai
Aishwarya Abishek Singh
Aarti Aney Aasha Sriram Vilani Senthamil
Masai Mara : The Holy Grail of Safaris
16 The Way Of The Temple Chariots 06
12 Chasing Horizons: A Silent Rebellion at the Edge of the World
22 Weaving the Past and Present of the Maori Renaissance
32 Stuck in Your Head? Let's Talk Existentialism
38 The Eternal Rhythm Of The Tabla Maestro Zakir Hussain
Chhath Puja: A Tale of Devotion, Nature, and Gratitude
54 What the Ancient Chinese WoreClothing, Accessories And More
Dear Brew Readers,
As 2024 comes to an end and a new chapter unfolds, we hope our Brew reads have kept you as entertained as it has kept us. We look forward to keeping you immersed in our assorted content that is carefully strained only for you. Brew has been cooking various items of interest for variety lovers. Brew is an extension of your love and the Brew family wishes you a very Happy New Year.
The theme remains the same but does not cease to amaze us with its engaging topics. This coming year we only hope for abundance, love and prosperity for all. And oh yes! More Brewing. So stay tuned, ‘cause Brew is eagerly waiting to bring out the colours of life and lifestyle to the limelight for knowledge, entertainment and fun.
Happy reading and keep Brewing! Cheers to 2025!
Love, Brew
Endlessly rolling hills, plain grassland, golden rays of the sun stretching as far as your eyes can see, clear blue sky, a single tall tree stretching its branches far away, the sight of the king of the jungle strolling along, gentle giants grazing, majestic tall giraffes, slender gazelles, stealthy leopards, fast cheetahs, oh my…. The list just goes on and on…. Well, I have made my point I guess… yes, it is Africa, it is Masai Mara, a top bucket list destination of all the wildlife enthusiasts in the world! A unique sanctuary, with a unique landscape, Mara is known for its heterogeneous wildlife existing in its natural habitat, unrestrained, roaming freely all across the park, all day long, all year long.
Rekha Padiki
Masai Mara national reserve is a preserved Savannah wilderness in the southwestern Kenya along the Great Rift Valley, near the town of Narok County. The Mara reserve is just 224 kilometers away from the capital Nairobi. Mara shares the border along with The Serengeti National Park, Tanzania. Managed by the Kenya Wildlife Services, the reserve was named to honor the indigenous Masai Tribe.
It was in the year 1961 that Masai Mara was declared a wildlife sanctuary with only 520 square kilometers, but, in the year 1974, it was designated as a National Reserve and today the reserve has an estimated land area of 1,510 square kilometers, with diverse flora and fauna. Mara, means “Spotted” in the local tribal Masai language indicating the landscape. The “short bushy “trees appear like
tiny dots on the larger landscape giving it a spotted look. With a massive and varied ecosystem, the area is bordered by the Serengeti in the south, to the north, east and west lie various other conservatories, three important lakes, The Sand, The Talek, and The Mara, rivers run across at its heart. Most of the land is an open grassland.
Rich in biodiversity, Mara is home to a variety of wildlife big and small. What makes Mara special is the presence of a variety of animal species, home to the big 9, Mara plays host to hundreds of migrating animals and birds every year. Why Masai Mara? What distinguishes it from the other wildlife sanctuaries? Well, there are many reasons as to what makes Mara special. For starters, Mara is one of the very few landscapes where all the larger mammals
exist together! Which creates an astounding opportunity to see varied species together. The agglomeration of wildlife here is extraordinary and the human-animal encounter here is incredible and like nowhere else in the whole wide world and that is what makes the African Safaris one of the best in the world!
Yes, safari is undoubtedly one of the most unforgettable experiences of the Mara visit. Captivating landscape, open safari jeeps often attracting wild animals a little too close! You may never anticipate, but, a lion might lazily saunter very close to your safari jeep, or you can expect an unexpected guest inside or at the top of your safari jeep… cheetahs, they have more than often, climbed up on the safari jeeps to scout the area for its prey and yes, do not try to shoo them away nor attempt to run from them… Well,
you can never outrun a cheetah, not even for your own life! Apart from the land safaris, one can choose to take a hot air balloon safari; this cannot be described in words! A remarkable experience of sorts.
Just imagine flying over this beautiful landscape, feeling the chill of the early morning air and the kiss of the first sun rays, looking down upon a varied wildlife just going about their business! Fascinating right? Well, how can one speak of Mara and not speak of the Great Migration! Nature’s most spectacular event! A natural occurrence unparalleled, unequivocal! An experience like none other in the world, The Great Migration happens between the months of July and October. The unbearable heat, sun scorching in the sky, pastures all dry and the animals struggling to find food, embark on this dangerous
and painstaking journey. The animals travel from the dry Serengeti towards and across the Mara River, in search of the green and full pasture and water.
Every year, hundreds and thousands of wildebeests, zebras, antelopes and gazelles migrate. The journey itself may be painstakingly dangerous for many animals, and for many who win over the heat and reach the Mara River, things turn from bad to worse… hungry crocodiles! It's heart wrenching to see how these tired and pale creatures run across the river for their lives… just to survive another summer, to live through another successful migration. This phenomenon, from another perspective, a predator perspective, is seen as the largest buffet spread, a feasting time for the hungry carnivores! Well, it’s just the way of
Nature! This spectacular migration happens because of the need to survive, the scarcity of the grazing lands in the Serengeti force these animals to set off on this perilous journey of crossing the Mara River.
The exclusivity of this is what makes the event great! Mara is a must visit. Migration also brings along a varied species of exotic birds to Mara. Over 450 different species of these winged beauties fly to Mara every year making it their temporary home. It’s not just The Great Migration that makes Mara a top pick wildlife destination, it is the open landscape, and the diverse wildlife that facilitates an All Year round Sightings! The majestic Lions, elephants, African buffaloes, cheetah, giraffes, gazelles, antelopes, and an occasional sighting of the shy leopards, makes it an equally engaging safari destination.
You can take an up close look at these magnificent creatures in their own natural habitat without disturbing them. What a momentous experience! It is no surprise that a multitude of wildlife enthusiasts swarm Mara every year, year after year! Apart from being a wildlife destination, Mara strives for cultural inclusivity. Tourists are encouraged to visit the local Semi-Nomadic ethnic group, the Masai and their tribal land, their homes, interact with them, and have a firsthand experience of their way of life, their language, their culture. How can one reach Masai Mara? Flying is the most convenient way of getting there. Fly into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), Nairobi, and the capital of Kenya. From there one can take another short haul flight to Wilson Airport which is just 12.5 kilometers away. This is the preferred route for a fly in safari to Masai Mara, or one can even drive to the Masai Mara National Reserve. The drive from Nairobi is about 270 kilometers which might take about 4 to 5 hours. Beyond the landscapes, beyond the wilderness and wildlife, visit to Masai Mara is a magical experience. The pristine beauty of the land, the simplicity of the tribes, the magnanimity of nature, just humbles us. It is a unique symphony of wildlife and the beauty of the land that leaves us at loss for words!
The journey to Munsiyari is not for the faint-hearted; it promises transformation amidst the rugged embrace of the Himalayas. As 2025 approaches, this hidden gem in Uttarakhand's Pithoragarh district invites you to discover a sanctuary where time stands still, yet everything is in constant motion.
Dhruv Pandey
A Unique Celebration
As New Year's Eve approaches, Munsiyari prepares for a celebration that contrasts sharply with the loud festivities elsewhere. Here, anticipation settles like fresh snow—soft and transformative. The locals embrace this time with quiet reflection rather than commercial countdowns, creating an atmosphere ripe for introspection. Darkot Village, a short trek from Munsiyari, offers a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Handwoven shawls adorn wooden porches, each thread telling a story of resilience and tradition. Women work diligently on intricate patterns that echo the mountains' spirits, their movements embodying generations of mountain wisdom.
A Hidden Himalayan Jewel
Munsiyari, often referred to as "Little Kashmir," is a place where the world fades away, allowing your inner self to reshape. Nestled at an altitude of 2,298 meters, this quaint village offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped Panchchuli peaks, which resemble five cooking hearths and are steeped in local mythology. The name "Munsiyari" translates to "place
with snow," perfectly encapsulating its winter wonderland charm.
The Journey Begins
My adventure started not with a calculated planning but as a spontaneous escape from the monotony of urban life. The winding roads from Kathgodam peeled away layers of stress with each hairpin turn, revealing majestic Himalayan vistas. The Panchchuli range stood tall, witnessing countless new beginnings and whispering promises of renewal.
Trekking: A Spiritual Journey
Trekking in Munsiyari transcends mere physical exertion; it becomes a spiritual passage. The Milam Glacier trek, accessible during winter, symbolizes life's challenges—beautiful yet demanding—leading to profound transformation. As midnight approaches on New Year's Eve, the Panchchuli peaks catch the moonlight, creating a natural spectacle that no human celebration could replicate. The stars feel closer here, and the silence is so profound that you can hear your own heartbeat syncing with the mountains' eternal rhythm.
Practical Insights for Travelers
Munsiyari is not your typical holiday destination; it requires presence and surrender. Accommodation options range from basic homestays to modest hotels. Nearby Madkot Hot Springs provide a natural spa experience, allowing visitors to feel rejuvenated as if the mountains themselves are washing away past burdens. Local cuisine tells its own story through dishes like Mandua ki roti and wild herb preparations, each meal reflecting generations of mountain hospitality. Dining
here is not just about sustenance; it's a celebration of culture and connection to something greater than oneself.
Capturing Moments
For photography enthusiasts, Munsiyari is paradise. Every frame—from the Milam Glacier to local life—is a story waiting to be told. However, some moments are best experienced rather than captured; they invite you to immerse yourself fully in the present. As 2025 dawns, Munsiyari offers more than just a destination; it presents
an opportunity for renewal and reflection. The mountains do not concern themselves with resolutions; they provide a space simply to be—to breathe differently and see anew.
Final Thoughts
Pack light and bring an open heart. Leave expectations behind at the base of these majestic mountains. Munsiyari welcomes you not just as a visitor but as someone ready for transformation—a journey that promises to reshape your perspective amidst its timeless beauty and serenity.
THE WAY OF THE TEMPLE CHARIOTS
Purushoth Appu
Which poet has not used a fussy concept to depict the temple car? The chariot ride is the pinnacle of temple festivals and the height of celebrations. Who isn't fascinated by the magnificence of the car that passes through Mada veethi (streets) every year, accompanied by pious chantings and devotional callings?
Every year, the populace is eager to witness the temple deities in the sanctum sanctorum parade through the streets in a chariot procession. In India, chariot buildings typically follow two distinct models: one for North India and another for South India. Chariots designed in South India are most comparable to temple towers. Tamil Nadu temple architecture also influences the design of the chariots. Although Tamil Nadu boasts a variety of cars, the chariot at the Thiruvarur Thyagaraja temple is Asia's second largest and tallest.
On both sides, the public displays their devotion by tugging the rope of the incredibly long chariot. The car holds numerous significant sayings that are deeply ingrained in people's everyday lives, despite their mere delight at its sight. The chariots come in different colours, just like jokes, sayings, and proverbs that make people laugh.
During festivals, the car that leaves the temple and makes its way to the street typically circles the square's streets before returning to the temple. The intriguing aspect of this is that, regardless of the type of chariot, it always turns right, moves to the right, and arrives at the temple. At every right turn on Mada Street, some workers turn the chariots to the right. The personnel who operate the chariot work very hard to keep it in excellent working order, while the devotees worship the chariot's gods!
More specifically, the operation of the car is based on mathematics. The workers use an incredible mathematical trick to turn the chariot wheel on the right side. Even though it's a risky and rather difficult duty, the workers accomplish it with incredible accuracy. The chariot has its own story, even if the priest is
in charge of the temple administration and the Moolavar Sannidhanam. The temple's chief carpenter must safeguard, maintain, and repair it everyday. His staff works on the unachievable task of correctly manoeuvring the car through the constrained streets. From the time the car leaves the temple until it arrives back, this group is in total control of it.
This group establishes guidelines for speed and distance of the car's movement on the street, as well as the appropriate actions and inactions. They know all the tactics, from halting a running chariot to getting it to run. Today, JCB machines stop and move the chariot back and forth. However, this group would be in charge of the chariot at that moment. The Thiruvarur car now takes a day to traverse the streets.
Back then, reports indicated that it took a week. The practice of calling people to pull the chariot has a long history. If the chariot stops on the street, it may remain parked and restored for months. People are called back to bring fixed items into the temple. If it is difficult to make current cars move around the streets, imagine how difficult it must have been back then!
According to those who used to stand on the roof, all it takes to see the car arrive on the street nowadays is to watch it on live television. These days, machines pull the chariot instead of people using ropes as they did in the past. The run of the car symbolises a thousand memories. We accept the dictum, despite its challenging imagination, that the streets expand upon the arrival of the car. Each car carries a thousand stories. As it spins those tales, its wheels softly grin at us!
Weaving the Past and Present of the MAORI RENAISSANCE
Sahana Subramanya
Have you ever wondered how much the history of your culture has evolved? How did the art from centuries ago show civilization? Or how did simple yet impactful aspects like songs, cuisine and the way of life come into being? Dwelling into such fascinating facts, I came across a hidden gem in an indigenous tribe called the Māori people who are known as the greatest storytellers as their language was passed down as songs and stories till the 1800s in New Zealand. Their fascinating way of existence can only leave you to wonder about their unique approach to mother nature, life and their mere existence.
Maori- A Force to be Reckoned With
At present, while people strive hard to preserve their cultures throughout the world, the Maori tribe is thriving not only in New Zealand but throughout the world. Thanks to their undivided dedication and passion towards spreading awareness and their contributions towards society. Here is a small attempt to showcase their glorious past that has led to the Maori people for who they are today.
Papatuanuku - Getting Inspiration from Mother Nature
Like different tribes throughout the world, the Maori tribe fell short of food in their original settlement areas, leaving the land behind and arriving in New Zealand from Polynesia during the 13th or 14th century. Navigating through the ocean currents, they were guided by the stars and winds, many centuries ago and have made the land of
Aotearoa (NZ), translating it into ‘The land of the long white cloud’ their home since then. Their intricate culture is intertwined with the natural world, bringing in its influence on the people in their daily activities.
Echoing from the Past - Pre-European Maori Civilisation
During pre-European times, fighting for a place in society as one of the powerful tribes made it a challenging environment that required having one or more chiefs or ariki. These arikis had sub-tribes or hapu under them, to manage and maintain the tribe’s welfare in haven-like fortified locations called pa. During these periods, to protect themselves from competition, they regularly engaged in warfare where they feasted on or enslaved their enemies to show superiority. Their technology and culture were deeply rooted, making tools out of naturally occurring substances like
obsidian or strong greenstone. As they travelled from the Polynesian islands, their language was influenced heavily by their sides, more with an intimidating tone. Their primary source of income was from weaving with flax seed plant parts and carving from wood and stones.
The Maori revered their culture at the top, following different passions for art, storytelling and collective performance. One such art form is called the haka, which is a sense of cultural pride, by showing their physical prowess and unity towards their enemies. It is a form of dance showing aggressive stomping, fist-pumping, other hand movements, and bold and loud narratives with intimidating facial gestures. With a strong combination like this, you are left mesmerized after a haka performance. It showcases a sense of pride as they used this art form as a war cry, performed by men in the olden days before heading out to war.
The Impact of European Colonization
The Europeans came into the Maori territory and laid settlements between the 1840s to the early 19th century, bringing a whirlwind of changes into the native Maori lives, in both positive and inverse ways. As sharp as they are, many Maori natives engaged in learning trade with the new settlers and some of them even got to travel to different locations like London and Australia among others. But the adverse effects came after they brought in diseases, prostitution and alcoholism which greatly impacted the prosperity of the well being or of ‘oranga’ in Maori. Let us look at the events post the European settlements into the Maori territory.
• Loss of land: The native Maori people lost their land to the influx of settlers which led to high demand for their land. Now where would they go? Naturally, some people, due to the temptation for
quick money, sold their ancestral property to the settlers and migrated to the neighbouring lands.
• Disease ridden: While there were a few benefits from the invaders or rather settlers, the Maori community got exposed to new types of diseases, not known earlier to them. All of a sudden, they were prone to measles, mumps, whooping cough, TB and bronchitis all of which took out a significant number of the Maori population in a short span.
• The Downfall of traditional healing: Earlier, the native Maori used traditional healing techniques for only known diseases. While new diseases came by during the European settlement, the tohunga practice of native medicine was not effective enough to cure the new diseases. This led to the decline of using traditional practices of healing to treat the natives.
• Christian Influence: While the Maori followed polytheistic and animistic religion consisting of atua or the pantheon of Gods, the introduction to Christianity was made post colonisation after the 1840s.
The Maori Wars - Bold and Assertive Minority
Would you stay put if your land is encroached upon by someone? The same happened with the Maori, who waged a war, later famously known as the ‘New Zealand War’, revolted over the Crown for their sovereignty by the Kingitanga clan leading to many confiscations and loss of lives due to the Crown’s control, during the last phase from 1864 to 1872.
This event brought about many changes in both Maori and Pakeha (European New Zealanders) with significant losses, eventually leading to the dominance of the Pakeha culture flourishing and marginalizing the Maori community.
Evolution of Maori Art
Maori art has seen many seasonal changes based on the environmental and the migratory influence of their own people and the settlers from the European settlements. 500 to 800 years back, the early tribal people drew with charcoal on limestone shelters, depicting their early life, animals and culture.
The painting format of art evolved only after the invasion of the Europeans into their territory with the introduction to the European paint materials and brushes, until which, paintings were used only as decorative materials. While colonisation happened, carvings or Pakeha were introduced with the means of metal tools for chiseling intricate designs.
Diverse Maori Art forms
Maori art forms are renowned for their deeprooted connection between spirituality and tradition with the natural elements.
Here is a brief attempt to showcase their art forms in diverse ways such as • Carving
Purpose - The houses were carved beautifully with intricate designs exclusive to the native communities by connecting the houses with the ‘marae’ (sacred grounds) and other public structures. They considered wood from trees sacred and the God of the Forest dwelt in it. Hence they carved stories to record pieces of history and pass it on to their future generations.
Significance - These stories through carvings depict various ancestral figures, genealogies, spirits, cultural beliefs and the way of life pre colonisation.
Materials used - They extensively used wood, bone and stone to produce ‘Toi whakairo’ or art carvings.
• Weaving
Purpose - The indigenous people weaved their garments, baskets and mats which are used for daily wear, decorative purposes, selling to make a living and other purposes.
Significance - It can be used for both personal and professional uses to uplift the economic conditions of the local people.
Materials used - New Zealand flax are the primary source of weaving for the native tribe communities.
• Tattoos
Purpose - These tattoos are a sign of pride ritual and prestige showing their identity, lineage and ranks they hold within the community.
Significance - The tattoos are addressed as T moko and carry immense spiritual and cultural significance. There is definitely something special about these tattoos that the Maori people proudly adorn, showcasing their status, stories and struggles over time.
Material used - The T moko ink is made of organic matter like oils of fish or almonds mixed with burnt wood, larvae, tree sap or gum, clay, gunpowder and other similar materials and stored in special containers called oko. This is then etched on the skin by a chisel and mallet.
• Paintings
Significance - While not as popular as the above three, this form has gained immense respect as they depict the scenes from their early migratory years.
Purpose - To etch historical events, decorate walls, objects and fabrics.
Materials used - Natural dyes, coloured organic pigments from fruits and flowers, ochre and charcoal.
Capturing Wartime Stories Through Songs
While paintings and literature may contribute in preserving other tribe’s legacy, the Maori people have a revered tradition of singing wartime stories and other significant events where the brave have fallen, for which songs are sung in their honour.
Let us look at examples of the famous performance and their contexts:
War songs or Waiata Taua
These are songs sung during a time of showcasing unified strength in case of wars in olden times, or while playing matches by intimidating their opponents with a unified song showing integrity and strength in numbers. This often is coupled with
rhythmic drumming, thumping of feet, coordinated hand movements, strong facial expressions.
Football Haka
The current favourite songs around the world is the football haka, where the most famous of the All Blacks team and of the New Zealand Women's team is a pleasant yet impactful presentation of pure dedication and unity to strive for their country’s victory is something that stays in the minds of many for a long time.
Haka in the movie Aquaman premiere
When the movie Aquaman was released, it was then that the Haka song and dance form was introduced to the world on a large scale, where
the actor Jason Mamoa performs with other artists in the premier of the movie, back in 2018.
The Global Recognition of Maori Tribes
Maori music and art have gained international recognition, and recently, in the early 2024, there was an emotional stir from a New Zealand MP belonging to the native Maori tribe who performed the Haka in between the parliamentary session, where the parliamentarian and a few others revolted against the Treaty Principles Bill that is believed by the tribe to cause a threat to the Maori rights and give way to the rise of anti-Maori rhetoric. Since then the native Maori people have regularly been protesting to this day for better social, economic and health conditions to be provided to them.
The total Maori population in New Zealand is currently around 9.2% and most of them are situated in the Northern Island. There are regular uprisings still continuing in New Zealand to restore the rights of the Maori community. Their current situation is slowly improving, thanks to their drive to preserve their tribal legacy. Such is the strength and devotion of the native Maori tribes to preserve their culture.
Honoring Tradition and Culture Through Art
While music is a medium to preserve the Maori culture predominantly, it is actively passed down through generations restoring their original stories and wartime legacies in honour of those who laid down lives in the plight to preserve the tribal lineage. Nowadays, schools and community performance centers are actively promoting and teaching the Haka songs and dance to young children to
preserve their cultural pride and instill a sense of belonging of these local tribes within the country, among the other European counterparts.
The Endearing Legacy of the Haka and Maori Tribes
The bequest of the Maori people is doing everything they can to preserve and pass on their cultural significance through song, dance and art forms. The cultural essence and oneness within the community is experienced that transcend beyond time and cultural barriers.
They may be the minority group now in their own land, however the Maori spirit runs high to ensure that the lineage stays for generations to come through various art forms, as they have made immense contributions to the diverse cultural landscape this world brews.
STUCK
IN YOUR HEAD? Let's Talk Existentialism
Vaishnavi M R
Have you ever caught yourself staring at the ceiling (in the quiet darkness) at 3 AM with deep thoughts, wondering what your life is all about? Maybe you've felt that there must be more to life than your same, old routine, or you've questioned yourself if you are really living your life on your own terms or just following a script someone else wrote for you. These aren't just random late-night thoughts keeping you awake. That feeling of questioning everything, wondering about your place in the world, and searching for deeper meaning; you're actually feeling one of the most intense ways of understanding human existence. Intense, yet very profound. Far from being signs of overthinking or getting too deep in it, these questions are your mind's way of reaching for something meaningful. Funny how our minds work, isn’t it? They are the same powerful questions that have inspired philosophers, artists, and common people in history to break free from conventional thinking and find their own path in life. Does this sound like something you might find yourself doing someday?
Breaking Free: How People Started Questioning Life's Rule
Book
For centuries, people lived with a comforting idea that everything had a predetermined purpose. Aristotle, one of history's most influential thinkers, explained it with a simple example. Just as a book needs pages to be a book, humans were born with a preset essence and purpose. Religious traditions embraced this view, teaching that God created each person with a specific destiny even before the person was born. It was a simple way to look at life where you find your place and play the part that was already decided. Now, this might sound convenient to some, while for others, it might be the beginning of a rebellious streak.
But in the 19th century, a group of people started asking uncomfortable questions (about time, honestly). Søren Kierkegaard, known to be the philosophical rebel of his time, wondered why we should accept that our life's
meaning was already written for us. Fyodor Dostoyevsky and Friedrich Nietzsche jumped in too, asking why we should just follow a life script that someone else wrote for us. Then came World War II and the Holocaust! Events so horrific they shattered the notion of divine predetermined purpose for many. How could such suffering really be part of a grand plan? This led to plenty of questions and thoughts that maybe we are not born with a purpose at all. Maybe we create our meaning through our choices and actions.
The idea comes from the Latin term "tabula rasa," which suggests that we are born like a blank slate and wait for life to write on us through our choices and deeds. To be honest, it's a little scary, but also freeing. Freeing because we get to create our own story, but scary because it’s up to us to figure out what that story looks like. The very responsibility for finding meaning shifted from a higher power to the individual, and with it came both freedom and the weight of that freedom.
The Real Deal About Existentialism
So what does all this mean for you and me? When you really get down to it, existentialism flips the script on how we think about purpose. Instead of being born with a preset meaning, like a coffee mug designed to hold coffee, we exist first and then figure out who we want to be. It's like being handed a blank canvas instead of a colouring book where you're told exactly which colours go where. This is what philosophers mean when they say "existence precedes essence,” fancy words for a simple truth where you get to create your own meaning.
But here's where it gets interesting (and a bit scary). With this great freedom comes equally great responsibility. This makes me think about this dialogue many of us know “With great power comes great responsibility.” In this context, freedom is your power. Imagine having unlimited choices at a restaurant. Sounds great until you realise that every choice is entirely yours, and you can't blame the waiter's recommendations if you don't like what you ordered. Jean-Paul Sartre, who popularised these ideas, argued that this freedom isn't just a gift. It's actually something we're "condemned" to. We have to choose,
even when we don't want to. Even choosing not to choose is still a choice! Then there's what philosophers call 'the absurd,' not the funny kind, but the head-scratching reality that we are creatures looking for meaning in a universe that doesn't come with an instruction manual. It's like being in a game where you have to make up the rules as you go along. This can feel overwhelming, but it's also where the beauty of resilience shines through; we create meaning anyway. This brings us to what Sartre called "living authentically" versus living in "bad faith." Living authentically means embracing this freedom and creating your own path. Living in "bad faith" is the opposite; it's when we deny our freedom by letting others make our choices or blindly following rules without questioning why. It's like wearing a mask so long you forget your own face.
This way of thinking naturally challenges traditional beliefs and institutions that claim to have all the answers. It's not about rejecting religion or rules entirely, but about choosing them consciously rather than following them blindly. The existentialist might say: "If you're going to be religious, let it be because you've chosen it, not because you were told to."
Why Your Existential Crisis Is Actually Normal
Remember that 3 AM ceiling-staring we talked about? Sometimes those deep thoughts can spiral into what psychologists call existential anxiety or even existential depression. It's what happens when the weight of unlimited possibilities feels more like a heavy backpack than wings of freedom. Imagine standing in front of a thousand doors, knowing you can only walk through one, and wondering forever about the paths not taken. That's existential anxiety in a nutshell.
This anxiety often peaks when we face major life events, especially when we encounter death. As Captain Jack Sparrow in "Pirates of the Caribbean" puts it, "The world's still the same, there's just less in it." Losing someone close can trigger an existential crisis, forcing us to confront our own temporary existence. Suddenly, those big questions about life's meaning become very real and very personal.
But here's where it gets really interesting. Psychologist Kazimierz Dabrowski suggested that this mental turmoil might actually be a good thing. He called it "positive disintegration." Fancy words for a fascinating idea. Sometimes, having your world turned upside down forces you to put it back together in a better way. It's like breaking down an old building to construct something stronger.
Today, these existential struggles show up everywhere in our mental health. We're drowning in choices like which career to pursue, which city to live in, and which version of ourselves to be on social media. The pressure to "be someone" is everywhere, yet paradoxically, we're told to "just be yourself." No wonder so many of us feel lost! One scroll through Instagram can trigger a full-blown "What am I doing with my life?" spiral. We're facing these age-old questions in a world of too many options and constant comparison. Every time we open our phones, we're bombarded with countless versions of what our lives "should" look like. It's like trying to find yourself in a hall of mirrors, each reflecting a different possibility of who you could be. No wonder existential anxiety has become such a common companion in our mental health struggles.
Making Peace with Life's Big Questions
Here's the plot twist you didn’t see coming! The very philosophy that might be causing your late-night anxiety can also be your way out of it. Remember the Joker from Batman and his wild ride into madness? Think about how he spiralled into complete disorder. While his response to life's meaninglessness led to nihilism, we can choose a different path. Instead of being paralyzed by life's lack of preset meaning, we can embrace it as an opportunity to create our own.
This is where existential therapy comes in. It is an approach that doesn't try to "fix" your existential questions because they're not broken to begin with. Instead of dismissing thoughts about life's meaning as mere anxiety, this therapy helps you use them as building blocks for personal growth. It's like having a guide while exploring uncharted territory, someone who helps you map your own path rather than handing you a pre-drawn map.
It’s all about shifting how we perceive freedom and responsibility. Rather than seeing them as burdens, we can approach them as tools for creating meaning. Start small, you don't have to figure out the meaning of the universe today. Focus on what matters in your immediate reality like your relationships, your daily choices, your personal values and much more.
Talking about using existentialism to our benefit, mindfulness plays a crucial role here. By staying present and aware, you can catch yourself when you're spiralling into existential worry and redirect that energy into purposeful action. Even in tough situations, you can find purpose by asking yourself, "What can I learn from this?" or "How can I use this experience to grow?"
In The End, You're Right Where You Need to Be
From Aristotle's predetermined purpose to existential therapy, our understanding of meaning and purpose has come full circle. Today, we stand at crossroads where age-old philosophical questions collide with the real stuff we're dealing with right here, right now. The anxiety you feel about life's big questions isn't a weakness, it's a sign that you're awake to the experience of being human.
So next time you find yourself staring at that ceiling at 3 AM, remember this. You're not lost, you're exploring. The meaning of life isn't something you find like a hidden treasure; it's something you make by yourself, day by day, choice by choice. What meaning will you choose to make today?
THE ETERNAL RHYTHM OF THE TABLA MAESTRO
Zakir Hussain
Lekhashree Natarajan
In the vast realm of music, there are few artists whose impact transcends time, culture and boundary. Zakir Hussain was one such artist. The legendary tabla maestro, who passed away recently, left behind a monumental legacy in the world of music. To call him a mere tabla virtuoso would be an injustice; Zakir Hussain was a living legend, a bridge between the classical and the contemporary, the East and the West. His contributions to music were not just limited to his mastery of the tabla but to his innovative spirit, his ability to connect deeply with his audience, and his unwavering dedication to his art.
Born in 1951 to the renowned tabla player Ustad Alla Rakha, Zakir Hussain was immersed in music from the moment he took his first breath. His father’s influence loomed large, but Zakir was destined to carve his own unique path. He began his musical journey at the tender age of three, and by seven, he was already performing publicly and by 12, he was touring. It was clear from the outset that he was not just following his father's footsteps, but was destined for greatness in his own right. Zakir's natural talent, combined with his intense dedication to mastering the art of the tabla, made him one of the greatest percussionists in the world.
The tabla, with its intricate rhythms and complex patterns, is a difficult instrument to master. Yet, in Zakir’s hands, it became much more than a mere percussion instrument; it became a voice - a means of communication through which he could express emotions, ideas, and stories. Zakir’s performances were deep meditations on rhythm, a language of its own. His music was not just about the technical precision of the beats but about the emotional resonance that he created with each stroke of the tabla. His ability to convey feelings, thoughts, and experiences through rhythm was what truly set him apart.
He was not only a master of Indian classical music but a trailblazer who redefined the boundaries of music itself. While rooted firmly in the tradition of Indian classical rhythms, Zakir's artistry was not confined by them. He embraced the power of fusion, working with musicians from across the world and various genres, such as jazz, world music, and Western classical music.
His collaborations with artists like George Harrison, John McLaughlin, Mickey Hart, and many others helped bring Indian rhythms into the global spotlight, showing the world the vast potential of the tabla in different musical contexts.
Perhaps the most remarkable thing about Zakir's approach to fusion was that he did not merely blend Indian rhythms with foreign genres—he reimagined both traditions, creating a new sound that was both innovative and entrenched in tradition. His work with McLaughlin in the band Shakti is a perfect example of this, where jazz improvisation and Indian classical rhythms intertwined to create something fresh and timeless. Zakir’s collaborations proved that music is a universal language, one that
surpasses cultural and geographical boundaries and speaks to the soul of humanity. Zakir Hussain was more than a musician; he was a storyteller. His tabla was an instrument of narration, with each beat, each phrase, telling a story. To hear him perform was to go on a trance - a journey through rhythm that made you feel both grounded in the present and transported to another realm.
His performances were a meditation on the power of rhythm to unite people, irrespective of their backgrounds, cultures, or languages. Through his music, he created a deep, almost spiritual connection with his audience. His every performance was a conversation, a shared experience of pure emotion and profound understanding.
Zakir Hussain's Grammy Award-winning career is a testament to his exceptional artistry and global influence. He won his first Grammy in 1992 for his collaboration on the album Planet Drum with Mickey Hart. This landmark achievement showcased his unique ability to blend Indian classical music with international genres, making him a pioneer in the world of fusion. His Grammy victory solidified his place as one of the most influential percussionists in the world.
Despite his immense fame and countless accolades, Zakir Hussain was known for his humility. He never sought the limelight; his music was his message, and he played not for applause, but because he truly believed in the power of music to heal, to uplift, and to
unite. His life was a witness to the idea that true greatness lies not in the pursuit of fame or recognition, but in the ability to touch the lives of others through the purity of one’s art. His humility was one of the many qualities that made him beloved by all who encountered him, whether as a teacher, a colleague, or an audience member.
Zakir Hussain was not only an exceptional performer but also a dedicated teacher who passed on his profound knowledge of tabla to future generations. He emphasized the importance of discipline, passion, and a deep connection to the rhythms of life through his teachings. He founded the Zakir Hussain Institute of Tabla in Mumbai, where students from around the world came to learn from him.
His approach was both traditional and innovative, blending classical methods with a modern perspective, ensuring that the rich legacy of tabla music continued to thrive globally. In an interview, Zakir Hussain shared a profound memory: the day he was born, his father cradled him in his arms and whispered the rhythms of music into his ears.
He described how, from the very beginning of his life, the sounds of the tabla were his first language. Growing up in a Muslim family, Zakir emphasized how music rose above religious boundaries, uniting hearts through its universal language. His words gave us all goosebumps, highlighting the deep connection between faith, family, and art.
Zakir’s death leaves an irreplaceable void in the world of music. His contributions to Indian classical music, as well as to global music, are immeasurable. He changed the way we perceive music, and his work will continue to influence artists for many years to come. The recordings he left behind, the stories shared by his students, and the countless musicians he mentored will keep his spirit alive in the hearts of all who love music. His
tabla will continue to resonate through time, inspiring the coming generations to explore the depths of rhythm and its profound power to connect us all. His journey was one of endless passion, exploration, and mastery. His tabla was not just a tool for creating music - it was an extension of his soul, a reflection of his unwavering commitment to his craft.
Through his music, he has left us with a treasure trove of unforgettable performances—each one a testament to the beauty and power of rhythm. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the immense impact he has had on the extraordinary world of music, knowing that his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to hear his tabla speak.
Zakir Hussain’s legacy is not defined by the accolades he received, but by the transformative power of his music. His tabla will continue to reverberate in our hearts, reminding us that even in the face of loss, the rhythm of life never truly fades. It goes - just as the beats he played continue to echo through the ages. His spirit, through his music, will never be silenced.
Aishwarya Abishek Singh
In the soft light of dawn, Kusum stands at the Yamuna Ghat in Delhi, her hands folded in silent prayer. Though far from her ancestral village in Bihar, where her family has observed Chhath Puja for generations, she finds herself surrounded by the same spirit of devotion. The air here carries the aroma of thekua and incense, just like it did in her childhood. Around her, thousands of others, many with roots in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, men and women, clad in traditional attire, prepare for a ritual older than time itself - a ritual that connects humanity to the Sun God, Surya, and to nature’s eternal rhythm. This is the story of Chhath Puja, a festival steeped in devotion, mythology, and environmental harmony.
The origins of Chhath Puja are deeply entrenched in the spiritual practices of the Vedic era, where sun worship was integral to understanding cosmic balance and divinity. The Sun God, Surya, was revered as the ultimate source of life, health, and prosperity. The rituals associated with Chhath are believed to create a harmonious connection with cosmic energies, channeling blessings into the lives of devotees. For villagers like Kusum, Chhath Puja is not just a festival but a living link to ancient mythology and teachings. As she grew up, stories of Karna, the illustrious son of the Sun God from the ‘Mahabharata’, became a cornerstone of her understanding of the festival’s importance. Karna’s unparalleled strength and virtues, despite facing hardships, are often attributed to his unwavering devotion to Surya.
"Every Chhath, my grandmother would tell us about Karna," Kusum shares, her eyes lighting up with nostalgia.
"She said his devotion to his father, the Sun God, gave him immense power and dignity. When we offer prayers to Surya during Chhath, it feels like we’re continuing that lineage of devotion." However, the festival’s significance does not rest solely on Karna’s story. Another pivotal
tale from the ‘Mahabharata’ connects Chhath Puja to Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas. In moments of crisis, Draupadi is said to have turned to Surya with unwavering faith, seeking his blessings for her family’s well-being. Her prayers were answered, emphasising the transformative power of sun worship. These dual narratives of Karna and Draupadi serve as moral and spiritual guides, instilling values of resilience, humility, and gratitude in every devotee. Over centuries, these tales have travelled across regions and generations, adding layers of cultural richness to Chhath Puja. The rituals include standing in waist-deep water, fasting for days, and offering arghya to the sun. These are not mere acts of devotion but echoes of these ancient stories. They remind practitioners of their shared heritage and the timeless bond between humanity and the cosmic forces that sustain life.
Through the lens of these myths and rituals, Chhath Puja becomes more than a celebration. It transforms into a profound journey of faith, connecting the past with the present and inspiring future generations to honour the universal forces that nurture existence. For Kusum and countless others, Chhath is both a personal act of devotion and a universal expression of gratitude to the Sun, a symbol of life’s enduring vitality.
An Ancient Call to the Sun
A Journey of Faith: The Four Days of Chhath
In Kusum’s village, the Chhath Puja rituals are not just acts of devotion but a way of life passed down through generations. The four days of this festival embody unwavering discipline, purity, and a deep connection to nature and divinity.
On the first day, Nahay Khay, the women of Kusum’s family begin their day before dawn, gathering by the village river for purification. This ritual bath signifies the cleansing of the body and soul, marking the start of their spiritual journey. Returning home, they prepare a meal that is as simple as it is sacred: freshly harvested rice paired with pumpkin cooked on earthen stoves. The act of cooking itself becomes a meditative ritual. “The food is basic but sacred,” Kusum reflects. “It’s like a prayer in itself, an offering of our humility and gratitude.”
The second day, Lohanda or Kharna, demands even greater discipline. Kusum’s aunt, Savita, fasts from sunrise to sunset, her day consumed with preparing the evening meal that will break the fast. The menu is symbolic: creamy kheer made with rice and milk, accompanied by golden puris and fresh fruits. This carefully prepared meal, shared after the evening prayer, becomes a moment of communal gratitude and spiritual reflection. “It’s not just about abstaining from food,” Kusum explains, “but about renouncing distractions to focus on inner purity.”
Sandhya Arghya, the third day, brings the most anticipated and visually stunning ritual. As the sun sets, the entire village converges at the riverbank, carrying offerings in beautifully arranged bamboo baskets. Sugarcane, bananas, and the golden-brown ‘thekua’ fill the air with a sweet aroma, symbolising the abundance and generosity of nature. Devotees wade into the water, brass vessels in hand, ready to offer arghya - a prayerful libation to the setting sun. Kusum describes this collective moment with
awe. “It feels like the whole universe pauses,” she says. “We pour water toward the sun, and for that moment, it’s as if we’re one with the cosmos, bridging the earthly and the divine.”
The final day, Usha Arghya, carries the festival to its spiritual climax. At the break of dawn, devotees once again gather at the water’s edge to greet the rising sun, a symbol of hope and renewal. As golden rays spill across the horizon, they offer water and prayers, completing the cycle of gratitude and devotion.
The fast is then broken with the sharing of prasad, the blessed offerings, among family, friends, and neighbours, reinforcing the communal spirit of the festival. These rituals, observed with unwavering dedication, reveal the timeless essence of Chhath Puja. It is not merely a celebration but a profound expression of humanity’s eternal gratitude to nature, symbolised by the Sun God and carried out through acts of discipline, humility, and unity. Kusum’s village may be miles away from her new life in Delhi, but her family, like thousands of others, carries these traditions to the Yamuna Ghat, ensuring that the spirit of Chhath Puja thrives wherever life takes them.
Offerings: Simple Yet Profound
The offerings of Chhath Puja carry profound spiritual and cultural significance, emphasising simplicity, purity, and gratitude. These sacred items, often prepared at home with meticulous care, symbolise the devotee's connection with nature and the divine. Kusum fondly shares the significance of thekua, the festival’s hallmark offering. "It’s not just a sweet; it’s an expression of devotion," she says. This jaggery-sweetened, crispy cookie is made with wheat flour and ghee, ingredients that are humble yet rich in cultural symbolism. The process of making thekua, often a family activity, brings together generations, embodying the collective spirit of Chhath Puja.
Kusum adds, "Its simplicity reminds us to value life’s basics, to find joy in what we already have."
Sugarcane and bananas, integral to the offerings, are direct symbols of nature’s abundance. Sugarcane, with its unbroken form, represents resilience and continuity, while bananas signify nourishment and the sweetness of life. Seasonal fruits, especially those grown locally, highlight the festival's reliance on natural resources, further strengthening its eco conscious message. Ricebased sweets and dishes, such as rice laddus or kheer, are also common offerings, showcasing the agrarian roots of the festival.
Rice, a staple crop, serves as a metaphor for sustenance and the gratitude of farmers toward nature. What makes these offerings even more special is their eco-friendly presentation. The bamboo baskets that hold the prasad are not just carriers but symbols of sustainability and tradition. Passed down through families or crafted by local artisans, these baskets honour the symbiotic relationship between humans and nature. The collective preparation
and presentation of these offerings create an atmosphere of shared purpose and unity.
For Kusum, standing at Yamuna Ghat with her family, the sight of baskets brimming with nature’s bounty is a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of life, faith, and environment. "Chhath isn’t just about rituals; it’s about embracing the harmony between us and the natural world," she reflects.
Nature and the Divine
Chhath Puja is more than an act of worshipit’s a celebration of life and nature. The rituals are performed at riverbanks, underscoring the significance of water as a source of life. Devotees ensure the ghats are cleaned before the festival, reinforcing the importance of environmental purity. Standing in the cool waters of the river, with the rising sun painting the horizon in hues of gold and crimson, Kusum reflects on the connection between humanity and nature. "The sun, the water, the earth - they sustain us. Chhath reminds us to be grateful."
A Festival Across Borders
Once confined to regions like Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, Chhath Puja has now become a global celebration. Kusum’s cousin, who lives in London, organises a makeshift ghat in a local park. "Even thousands of miles away, Chhath feels the same," her cousin shares. From the Thames to the Hudson, Indian communities recreate the festival, bridging distances and generations.
The Heart of Chhath
For Kusum and millions of others, Chhath Puja is more than a festival - it’s a way of life. It teaches resilience, gratitude, and the importance of harmony with nature. As Kusum watches the sun rise on the final day of Chhath, she whispers a silent prayer, her heart full of hope and gratitude. "It’s not just the Sun God we thank," she says softly. "We thank life itself" and as the golden rays touch the earth, the timeless tradition of Chhath Puja continues, connecting past, present, and future in a circle of light.
CLOTHING, ACCESSORIES AND MORE
Rekha Padiki
A glittery night, jazzy costumes, exhilarating music, a ramp teeming with models walking across displaying unique and innovative costumes, dreamy right?… Yes, that’s fashion for you… fashion is timeless, it is universal, it has no boundaries. It is a language that every single person resonates with; fashion has an undeniable power to inspire, think, get creative and be individualistic. It is an ongoing, ever changing, ever evolving process and, each time we feel fashion is redundant and there is nothing new, it has a way of resurrecting itself like a phoenix.
So, is fashion just a way of moving forward… Well, no. Fashion is like a mirror, a mirror into the past, helping us stay connected to the time gone by, connected to our roots. Fashion is
like a chronicle into our history, our cultural heritage, a legacy that we have inherited and intend to pass on to our future generations. Fashion is also a cycle that comes with a new tinge of fairy dust. Fashion previously was immensely influenced by the culture and beliefs of the rulers of the land. The way one dressed, how they designed their clothing, how they accessorized it to accentuate one’s beauty, everything greatly depended upon them. Every ruler that has ever ruled upon has left a piece of him/her, their ideas and thoughts and their culture into the present.
The mystifying land of dragons has seen its fair share of rulers on its land, each influencing their lives in a unique way. They have always drawn
attention owing to the uniqueness of their attire, luxurious fabric choice, a mix of bold and elegant colors alike, their aesthetic embroidery, their quirky footwear, their hairdos and their ornaments and much more. Each dynasty had something different to add to the culture. China has had many dynasties and quite a few major influencers on its fashion. A few, I have mentioned here:
THE HAN DYNASTY: The Han dynasty seems to have had a major influence on Chinese clothing. They introduced HANFU, a traditional clothing, which was seen as an embodiment of Chinese culture. Hanfu, is a long robe with wide flowing sleeves accompanied with a defining belt at the waistline. Hanfu creates a sense of elegance and humility. Layering
of the attire, that is, multiple layers worn once upon the other was first introduced during this rule. Hanfu was the same for both men and women.The fabric of Hanfu depended on the social status of the person. Hemp, silk, satin were predominantly used and decorated with intricate and elegant embroidered floral patterns. Silk fabric was mostly used by the elite. Hanfu seems to be gaining fast popularity again among the youngsters as an effort to reconnect with their roots.
THE TANG DYNASTY: Considered as the “golden age” for fashion, bold colors, luxurious fabric, brocade material was widely used. Gold and yellow were seen as exclusive colors meant only for the elite and the imperial. The elite and the high
nobility wore wide-sleeved robes, with long sleeves as top and a flowing skirt at the bottom for women and trousers for men. Intricate embroidery patterns of flowers, birds and landscapes adorned their robes. The ”Xiuhe”, a wedding dress, especially made for that day was introduced during this time, which was extravagant and colorful. Multi-layered gowns were worn for weddings. The layers had lavish embroidery and the red, blue, yellow and green colors were used for the first time on the wedding gowns. It was not just the clothing that saw a luxury growth during the Tang reign, but also the hairstyles saw a great deal of change, high rise hairdos elaborately decorated with jewelry were introduced. Women wore high buns or topknots generally decorated with gold and pearls. Hairpins,
headpieces were introduced for hair styling purpose during the Tang Dynasty was deemed to be extremely prosperous because of booming international trade, silk trade and they were open to incorporation of western culture, this made them more open and adaptable.
THE SONG DYNASTY: Fashion saw a shift towards elegance, simplicity and refinement during this era. Clothes were streamlined, with less decoration. Women’s fashion became fitted, sleeves became shorter for practical purposes and emphasis was on grace. Colors used for the fabric became more toned down and usage of earthy colors came to use. The use of belts were introduced for the first time with continued use of multiple layered clothing.
THE MING DYNASTY:
A more formal and structured fashion was the characteristic feature of The Ming Dynasty. Formal clothing based on the hierarchy can be seen here. The divide of the society was more prominent, dressing had to adhere to the social codes strictly. The elite or the richer class had elaborate embroidery of the dragons, the phoenix and flowers which symbolized power, authority. Women’s skirts were designed a little elongated to give an illusion of a long silhouette. Bright colors were generally used for ceremonial purposes only. The Ming Dynasty tried to restore or imitate the Han culture to minimize foreign influence on their fashion and culture.
THE QING DYNASTY:
Fashion saw a different height during this rule. Men continued to wear “changshan“, long robes and women wore “qipao“ , a body hugging dress, which highlighted the silhouette of a woman. It was more of a fitting dress with high collar and side slits, to highlight the feminine figure.
The Qing Dynasty emphasized in distinguishing the ruling, the elite and the general population. Dress code, color code, fabric, the motifs and embroidery were all clearly distinguished.
Dragon Robe, a formal silk robe was worn by the emperor or anyone from the imperial family only, it was called a Dragon Robe because the “fiveclawed“ national emblem was elaborately and richly embroidered on the heavy silk robe, a full length Gown with side fastening. A belt was also worn to give it a more fitted appearance. Clouds, waves, and dragon motifs were embroidered showing extravaganza. This dress would be designed painstakingly for over 30 months… a laborious process indeed!!
Traditional Chinese clothing never actually emphasized on the form or the shape of the body. Always a loose fit, straight from top to bottom, concentration was more on the ornamentation, decoration, expensive fabric, elaborate embroidery. Appliqué, an ornamental needle work with extreme precision to sew together or to attach smaller pieces of patterns onto a larger garment was a popular technique used in traditional Chinese clothing.
CHILDREN’S CLOTHING:
Traditional children's clothing were usually bright colored, cotton or silk fabric was used. Apart from the usual flowers, fruits, wild animals were diligently embroidered. It was believed to ward off evil spirits and bring success to the child. Hats and shoes for children were embroidered as fierce animals to keep the bad spirits away.
As quirky as they were, the Chinese dresses were a class apart, but their other accessories were as unique as well… especially their footwear. Ancient Chinese footwear also depended on social status, each kind of footwear had a symbolic meaning. Craftsmanship and fabric used again depended heavily on the richness and affordability.
THE LOTUS FOOTWEAR:
The most iconic and unique footwear. These types of shoes fitted women who practiced foot binding. Feet of young girls as young as 3 were bound to force the toes to arch inside and compressing the feet. This forceful binding made the feet appear tiny which was considered as feminine, delicate and desirable. Typically made of silk or satin, these footwear were decorated with embroidery with motifs like butterflies, flowers or birds. Pearls and precious stones were also used to enhance and make them look rich.
XIUHAXIE:
Traditional Chinese shoes, basically made from cloth. Colorful Chinese embroidery adorned these shoes which created a pattern appearing to be flowing from heel to toe. The idea of embroidery on shoes is indigenous to ancient Chinese culture and dates back to around 2600 years. This shoe is making a comeback and is popular among traditional Chinese weddings as a way of the young generation trying to connect to their past.
MANCHU PLATFORM SHOES:
Worn by the Manchu women of Qing Dynasty, The lower bottom of this type of shoe had a high platform heel made out of wood and the top portion of shoe was made out of fabric. The sole had several layers of cotton which would give the women a cushion-like feeling. These were commonly referred to as flowerpot footwear.
HORSE - HOOF SHOES:
The Horse-Hoof shoes had an elevated piece of wood in the shape of concave and the sides were attached to the sole of the shoe, giving it a platform and an elevated feel. These types of shoes were wide at the toe and a curved sole, like the shape of a horses’ foot and hence the name. Made famous during the Tang Dynasty, these types of shoes reflected the status of a person wearing them, while this was also popular among the military symbolizing power. The bottom part of the shoe was either wood, leather or woven grass, and the top portion was silk.
JIAO SHOES:
Introduced during the Tang Dynasty, or maybe even earlier… These types of shoes were tall shoes or high heeled shoes unlike the lotus footwear. The introduction of heels created a dramatic effect, this did not just elevate the wearer physically but also elevated their grandeur or social status. Meaning, only the rich or the elite class could afford them.
Accessories were just as important in Chinese culture as clothes and footwear. They were an integral part of their daily ornamentation…. Hair ornaments and jewelry were not just to complete the outfit or to decorate themselves but were seen as a testimony to their social status, wealth and their relevance in the society. Their outward appearance, and details as minute as their hairdos, the beauty and nature of their nails, the fabric they wore, the elaborateness of the embroidery, even the designs of the embroidery seem to be suggestive of their quality of life. During the Ming Dynasty, the rich and the royals wore long artificial nails indicative of their richness and to show that they did not do any manual labor, such were their obsessions.
Traditional Chinese Fashion was a reflection of their philosophy, their aesthetics and above all their social hierarchy. Unique in their own way, each dynasty, every fashion ever introduced have always defined the class of a person in the society. The patterns of embroidery, the thread, the fabric, usage of expensive metals, decorative motifs, colors and everything depended on the social status of the individual. The royal, elite and imperial wore the most elaborate and expensive clothing, while the general public wore simple and less decorative modest clothing. Even the use of specific colors, fabric and patterns showed the social status of the people.
Chinese clothing had a deeper symbolic meaning associated with fashion. From the elaborate robes to the elegant Qipao, ancient Chinese clothing has not just been mere fashion but a symbolic expression of their philosophical values, display of their craftsmanship, and a deep sense of appreciating beauty.
As the society seems to evolve and grow and become more western influence in the name of globalization, there seems to be a renewed interest in reviving their tradition and cultural values among the youth, youngsters are embracing the history, the meaning and their value system associated with their ancient fashion. A revival of sorts!
