The Thucydides Trap describes the high risk of war when a rising power threatens to displace a dominant ruling power. This concept is  named after the Greek historian Thucydides who noted the dynamics between Athens and Sparta leading to the Peloponnesian War.

Thucydides war was further popularized by political scientist Graham T. Allison, suggesting the fear of the rising power by the established nation, coupled with the challenger’s growing confidence, often leads to conflict, though Allison aims to help manage this dynamic (currently U.S.-China) to avoid war through understanding and diplomacy.

The origin of the Thucydides’ trap started in situation where rising power Athens challenged the status of an established, ruling power  Sparta. The war was called Peloponnesian War, The Peloponnesian War was fought in the Eastern Mediterranean between the Athenian-led Delian League and the Spartan-led Peloponnesian League from 431 to 404 BC for domination over Ancient Greece. Thucydides approached ethics with scepticism, viewing morality as shaped by one’s environment rather than universal truths. Thucydides’ observations during the Peloponnesian War led him to develop political realism, the theory that political behaviour is fundamentally driven by fear of war and self-interest.

In the world wars happen due to complex, overlying reasons like disputes over resources such as land, oil, power struggles, political control, influence, and identity clashes  due to religion, nationalism, ideology, often fuelled by economic inequality, historical grievances, resource scarcity exacerbated by climate change, or a breakdown in diplomacy, leading groups to use organized violence when peaceful resolution fails. For example, Pakistan’s frequent conflicts with India stem mainly from the unresolved Kashmir dispute since 1947, leading to wars and ongoing border clashes, fuelled by religious/communal tensions and strategic interests, alongside internal instability and support for militant groups impacting regional security, especially with neighbours like Afghanistan, creating a cycle of conflict. The violent 1947 split by British created a deep-seated hostility between India and Pakistan leading to religious divide between  Hindu-Muslim, and a legacy of distrust.

Wars, often arising from economic, territorial, religious, or political reasons, can leave countries war-torn, requiring decades for rebuilding infrastructure and economic reconstruction. Rebuilding nations after war is indeed a daunting task, involving immense challenges across social, economic, political, and infrastructural domains. It requires comprehensive, long-term strategies and often international cooperation to establish lasting peace and stability.

The Russia-Ukraine conflict, beginning in 2022, it exemplifies the complexities of modern warfare, including unexpected resistance, strategic and logistic challenges, and significant civilian impact. On February 24, 2022, the Russian Federation began a military invasion of Ukraine, escalating a conflict that had been simmering since Russia’s 2014 annexation of Ukraine’s Crimean Peninsula.

Global war statistics reveal a diversity of conflicts, from Myanmar’s long-standing civil war to the ongoing drug war in Mexico, each with unique causes and consequences.

Myanmar’s civil war stems from the military’s 2021 coup, overthrowing a democratically elected government and triggering widespread armed resistance by pro-democracy forces and ethnic groups against the ruling junta, building on decades of ethnic conflict and military dominance over civilian rule. The core reasons are the military’s desire to retain power, suppression of democratic movements, and long-standing ethnic grievances, all exacerbated by the military’s violent crackdown on peaceful protests after the coup.

The Mexican drug war is an ongoing lopsided armed conflict between the Mexican government and various drug trafficking syndicates. When the Mexican military intervened in 2006, the government’s main objective was to reduce drug-related violence. This conflict has resulted in widespread violence, including mass killings and brutal tactics employed by the cartels, such as execution-style murders and the use of mass graves. The conflict known as the Mexican Drug War is still very much ongoing as an intense armed struggle between the Mexican government and powerful drug cartels, despite various government initiatives and claims of ending the “war,” with cartels like the Sinaloa Cartel remaining dominant players in the multi-billion-dollar drug trade, driving violence and instability.

The conflict between Israel and Palestine is a long-running, complex dispute over land and self-determination with historical roots stretching back over a century. It encompasses a series of wars, numerous military operations, and ongoing political conflict, most notably the current Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. The Palestinians seek to establish their own independent state in at least one part of historic Palestine. Israeli defence of its own borders, control over the West Bank, the Egyptian-Israeli blockade of the Gaza Strip, and Palestinian internal politics currently make the Palestinians’ goal out of reach. The Israeli–Palestinian conflict is an ongoing military and political conflict about land and self-determination within the territory of the former Mandatory Palestine.

Civilization Identity will be increasingly important in the future, and the world will be shaped in large measure by the interactions among seven or eight major civilizations. These include Western, Confucian, Japanese, Islamic, Hindu, Slavic-Orthodox, Latin American and possibly African civilization.

The Soviet-Afghan war and the First Gulf War as the emergence of civilization wars. Huntington interprets the Afghan War as a civilization war because it was the first successful resistance to a foreign power, which boosted the self-confidence, and power of many fighters in the Islamic world says American political scientist Samuel Huntington.

Cold Wars are increasingly appearing at these civilizational divisions. Wars such as those following the breakup of Yugoslavia, in Chechnya, and between India and Pakistan were cited as evidence of inter-civilizational conflict.

Impact of clash of civilization on business

According to a study by the Harvard Business Review, a staggering 70% of international ventures fail due to cultural differences. This alarming statistic underscores the critical need for mastering cross-cultural communication. Because human societies are complex systems, some common factors that may contribute to their decline are economic, environmental, demographic, social and cultural. These factors may cascade into another and build up to the point that could overwhelm any mechanisms that would otherwise maintain stability.

Culture clash in the workplace refers to the conflict that arises when different employee backgrounds, beliefs, and behaviours collide. This can manifest in various ways, including: miscommunication, diverse communication styles can lead to misunderstandings and frustration. Also, cultural clashes disrupt businesses.

Increased Trade Costs and Reduced Flows

Cultural differences act as a significant, and in the post-Cold War era, potentially increasing barrier to international trade. Countries belonging to different civilizations tend to trade less with each other. This is due to higher transaction costs, a lack of trust, and differing business norms which complicate negotiations and collaboration.

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Risks

Businesses investing overseas face “cultural risks” in regions with vastly different languages, religious beliefs, legal origins, and values. These risks can lead to potential operational challenges, social tensions, and the need for significant adaptation to local cultural norms, which can be costly and difficult to manage.

Geopolitical Conflict and Instability

The theory posits that conflicts will primarily occur along “fault lines” between civilizations. This increases the risk of regional instability, proxy conflicts, and “tit-for-tat” sanctions (e.g., in trade and finance) which can disrupt global supply chains, catch businesses in the middle of political disputes, and increase compliance costs.

Challenges in Mergers and International Operations

Within organizations, a clash of corporate cultures, often exacerbated by different national or regional operating styles, can lead to communication breakdowns, demotivation, resistance to change, and a lack of cohesion in teams. This makes successfully integrating acquired companies or managing diverse global operations a major challenge.

Reinforced Economic Regionalism

The theory suggests that successful economic regionalism often succeeds only when it is rooted in a common civilization. This trend toward stronger intra-regional trade blocs (e.g., in Europe, East Asia, North America) could lead to the marginalization of businesses from outside those blocs, making cross-regional expansion more difficult.

Weaponization of Trade and Finance

The intensification of civilizational competition can lead to the “weaponization” of economic tools, such as trade tariffs, sanctions, and restrictions on technology transfers, in “nationally sensitive” domains for example,  semiconductors, clean energy. This environment of economic warfare forces businesses to navigate a complex, fragmented international system.

I love the song “Dil ka diya jala ke gaya” from film Aakashdeep (1965) The song is composed in Jaijaiwanti raga. Lata Mangeshkar has sung it in “half breath” which refers to a quick, shallow inhalation taken during a phrase to refill breath support without completely stopping the musical line. It is a subtle and controlled breath that allows singers to maintain momentum and phrasing, especially when faced with long musical passages. This sweet melodious song was composed by veteran Music Director Chitragupta and the lyricist of the song is Majrooh Sultanpuri. 

Jaijaiwanti is from the Khamaj family of ragas. In Carnatic Music, its equivalent is the Raagam Dwijawanti. Jaijaiwanti usage spans several genres such as Sikh Gurbani which were compositions of Guru Tech Bahadur. In Bollywood Shankar Jaikishan, Madan Mohan used Jaijaiwanti for composing some evergreen songs.

The Khamaj scale  is a foundational structure in Hindustani classical music, and several ragas are derived from it. Some prominent ragas within the Khamaj family include Khamaj itself, along with Rageshree, Jhinjhoti, Desh, Tilak Kamod, and Jaijaiwanti. These ragas share characteristics with the Khamaj thaat, but each possesses unique melodic contours and emotional nuances according to music archives. Raag Jaijaiwanti is typically sung during the second prahar of the night, from 9 PM to 12 AM.

Jaijaiwanti on sarod is a relative rarity, owing to the complex structure of the raga. When songs are composed in this raga, usually,  the music director, the singer, and the actor come together which portrays beautiful cooperation that makes a song a hit.

I wonder how Lata could sing the song so perfect, not a single note here and there, so precise and accurate in half breath. She sang in low notes with same power and clarity the way she sings in normal and high notes.

The heroine of movie Bani (Nimmi) has fallen in love; she is a mute girl  who plays a record to  express her feelings to the world. Her expressions are as soft and subtle.  Nimmi has acted beautifully experiencing the love she feels for the hero (Ashok Kumar).  How brilliantly the song has been composed in this context! Chitragupta has kept the tune subdued, and somewhat muted melody. A muted melody is one that is played softly, with a lower volume or intensity. It can evoke a sense of quietness, introspection, or melancholy.

Violins in the beginning give the account of thrill of love experienced by Baani. And then the soft melody takes over with the jal tarang. Lata Mangeshkar as if whispers the lyrics in your ears, letting out the secret of her feelings. The soft glow of love sparking Nimmi’s heart. Bringing up the feelings as a song, which were deep down in her heart which she expresses for the first time. Listen to this beautiful song.

When we buy something new – a new car, a bike, a bag, a goggle, perfume, a shoe we strive to maintain it; we handle all new things with care. But, as those things start getting older, we lose interest in them. As human, we have this fascination with ‘newness’.  A newly made acquaintance is always good; we find everything nice in him/her. Similarly when you fall in love, the initial few days you see everything good in the person, new love, new relationship, new job, and new aspiration every “new” in life has a special spot in heart. Because newness brings  eagerness with it.

Similarly a New Year is also special to us. We ring out the old year and invite the new. As we say good bye to one year, we look forward to a new year with a hope and optimism welcoming a brand new chapter into our life. However hard we try to plan, handle and maintain our lives, each year, all of us face situations and circumstances that are completely out of our control. But, still we look forward to welcoming a New Year with keenness. Making resolutions for the New Year is one such strategy to control our life.

(A statue of Janus in Vatican Museum)

Do you know that ancient Romans prayed to Janus – the God of new beginnings?  And, the month January is named after Janus. Romans believed that Janus has two faces: one looking forward and one looking backward. This allowed him to look back – the past and look forward to a new future. On 31^st December, the Romans thus believed in making resolutions, to forgive enemies, forget troubles of past and make a new beginning. The Romans also believed that Janus would forgive them for their past mistakes if they confessed in him to make a new positive beginning. So, they would give gifts and make promises, believing that Janus looks on them and blesses them in the year ahead. New Year’s resolutions are in fashion since then.

It’s common to have New Year resolutions. We spend a lot of time and efforts in making them. A New Year’s resolution is a promise a person makes for the New Year. A resolution is made regardless of what resolution one commits to. The goal is to improve life in the coming year. We spend so much time writing them down with action plans to achieve them; using colored ink to mark some most important ones, discussions with friends, finding reasons for not having achieved few resolutions of current year as yet. Few most common resolutions are: losing weight, strictness with spending money, saving money, staying healthy, go for long walks, getting organized, acquiring more educational degrees, quit smoking, cut down on drinks, buy a new house etc, etc, etc. A research has shown 45% Americans usually make New Year’s resolutions. But, we have seen that however well planned our resolutions are we commonly break them under some or the other excuse. With everything that happens around us, it is sometimes difficult to reach each and every goal.

There are those sticklers who do try their best to attain all resolutions. Many even carry forward the unmet resolutions of previous year to the New Year. I have seen some perfectionists who do achieve most of their resolutions.

The first day of the New Year 2018 signifies the end of a chapter. I probably didn’t reach my highest expectations last year, but it wasn’t all that bad. The New Year of course holds the hopes, the dreams, and the possibilities of a great happening new year. I have made as usual some resolutions, written them down in my diary and resolved to make some good beginnings.

What’s so new about the fresh year? In the night when the clock struck 12 one minute changed the year – from one to next, a new year, a new start. While writing date, it will take some time to get adjusted while writing number of the year. Yes, we will need time to help to get past year into past.

Looking back upon the last couple of years, I feel some emptiness as my parents, some of my friends some acquaintances and my pet who have passed away and left vacuum.  I missed on some opportunities in my career, took some wrong decisions by reacting wrongly to some situations in my career, this has led some people reacting badly to me. But I dint stop, moved ahead in life. I moved forward and I continued to grow. I dumped all disappointments behind. You know, writing a resolution does help a lot. Subconsciously your mind keeps reminding about those unfulfilled resolutions. It makes you take some stern, some lenient, some naïve actions, and they are worth it. Life is all about moving ahead, not remaining stagnant.

A New Year tells us to look forward to what we have not seen. It tells us to stop regretting. It makes us leave past in past. Positive things happen in our life when we sensitively distance ourselves from the pessimistic things.  So stop holding on to those grudges, those small and big hurts, and make room for the best things. Welcome the New Year with open arms.

 Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end – Seneca.

Christmas is an annual festival honouring the birth of Jesus Christ, observed primarily on December 25 as a religious and cultural celebration among billions of people around the world. Santa Claus is Santa Claus, legendary figure who is the traditional patron of Christmas in the United States and other countries, bringing gifts to children. 

Santa Clause is mythical giver of gifts in Christmas, his popular image  is associated with Saint Nicholas,  a 4th-century Christian saint who is typically portrayed in red bishop’s robe. The Dutch are credited with transporting the legend of Saint Nicholas who was also called Sinterklaas to New Amsterdam (now New York City), along with the custom of giving gifts, toys, clothes and sweets to children on Christmas.

The current depiction of Santa Claus is based on images drawn by cartoonist Thomas Nast for Harper’s Weekly beginning in 1863. Nast’s Santa owed much to the description given in the poem  “ A Visit from St. Nicholas” first published in 1823. The image was further defined by the popular Santa Claus advertisements created for the Coca Cola company from 1931 by illustrator Haddon Sundblum; his Santa was a round, overweigh, white-bearded gentleman dressed in a red suit with a black belt and white fur trim, black boots, and a soft red cap.

Christmas is called the festival of giving. Giving has a profound impact on both the giver and the receiver. By providing support to those in need, we can make a positive difference, both now and for eternity. This was the whole idea of Christmas. It is about giving. Over the years people forgot it’s true motive and started celebrating it just for their own happiness. Christmas additionally explains how giving and sharing not only helps the recipients happy but also gives you a sense of satisfaction and joy.

In today’s selfish world, the joy of giving is highly underrated. It’s a mutual feeling and not a one way feeling. It makes the other person happy because you’ve helped them or given them a reason to feel joy. It also makes you happy because the satisfaction you receive is unmatchable. If you possess the power of giving and if you use that power in the right manner, you’ll never be dissatisfied.

And trust me when I say giving is not always monetary or something which can be bought by money. It can be anything which brings joy, happiness or satisfaction to the other person and yourself too. It can be a feeling, good news, a few kind words, words of wisdom, a small gift, a kind gesture or anything in general. Toward the end of the 18th century the practice of giving gifts to family members established. Theologically, the feast day reminded Christians of God’s gift of Jesus to humankind even as the coming of the Wise Men (Magi) to Bethlehem suggested that Christmas was somehow related to giving gifts.

The famous belief about Santa Claus is said that he lives at the North Pole with his wife (Mrs. Claus), where he spends the year making toys with the help of his elves (small creatures with pointed ears who has magic powers). He receives letters from children asking for Christmas gifts. On Christmas Eve he loads his sledge with toys and flies around the world, drawn by eight reindeers, stopping at each child’s house. He slides down the chimney and leaves the gifts, refreshing himself with the milk and cookies left for him by the household’s children.

Santa Claus’s story stretches all the way back to the 3rd century, when Saint Nicholas walked the earth and became the patron saint of children. It is believed that Nicholas was born sometime around A.D. 280 in Patara, near Myra in modern-day Turkey. Much admired for his goodness and kindness, St. Nicholas became the subject of many legends. It is said that he gave away all his inherited wealth and travelled the countryside helping the poor and sick. One of the best-known St. Nicholas stories is the time he saved three poor sisters from being sold into slavery or prostitution by their father by providing them with a dowry so that they could be married. Over the course of many years, Nicholas’s popularity spread, and he became known as the protector of children and sailors.

The legend also has that after the birth of Jesus Christ in the winter season, some of the trees shook off the snow and turned green to mark the great event. Thus, the Christmas tree represents permanence and immortality. That’s why it is decorated.

Christmas is classically a peak selling season for retailers in many nations around the world. Sales increase dramatically as all rich and poor purchase gifts, decorations, and supplies to celebrate. In the U.S, the “Christmas shopping season” starts as early as October. In Canada, marketers begin advertising campaigns just before Halloween, (it is a yearly ritual observed in a number of countries to remember all dead people on October 31st), and step up their marketing following Remembrance Day on November 11. In the UK and Ireland, the Christmas shopping season starts from mid November; around the time when high street Christmas lights are turned on to mark the beginning of celebrations. In Mexico it begins from third week.  In the United States, it has been calculated that a quarter of all personal spending takes place during the Christmas shopping season. The winter breeze has a charm in it; shopping in winter is a blissful affair.

Winter season has a rustic appeal. Winter is the coldest season of the year. December and January are chiefly the winter months. Cold winds blow from the north. Thick fog often hides the sun, and cold becomes severe. People are seen basking in the sun, or sitting around the fire, to keep their body warm. In winter, we get lovely fruits and vegetables; it gives us various kinds of seasonal flowers; Dalais, Roses, Lily, Lavender, Primrose, Daisy, and Begonia and many other seasonal beautiful flowers make the season multihued. The winter sky is clear and blue. The roads and paths are clean and dry. You can go for long walks without sweating. The winter sun is mild and warm. Everyone is in full of amusement. The winter season is lit with nice, dim beautiful sconces. The beautiful, cold dew drops on rooftops and ground look as beautiful as pearls. The cold morning with nice music and deep-red rising sun is what people wait for. Winter is indeed a season to be celebrated.

The month of December being the last month of year usually passes fast because of the Christmas and year-end. People usually prefer celebrating year ends in far-off destinations. Therefore after 15^th December you find many people opting for leave. Holiday plans are made well in advance.

And 31st December means celebration for every individual. The New Year carries special symbolism for one and all. And why is the celebration of the New Year so common around the world, as it has been for at least as long as there have been calendars? Behavior that everywhere must surely be tied to something natural in the human beings, something intensely meaningful and important given all the energy and resources we put into both the celebration and our efforts to make good on which we start working well in advance. As common as the celebration of New Year’s Day is, it may be that the symbolism we attach to this one moment is rooted in one of the most powerful motivations of all, and that is our motivation to stay alive another year. And, many of us make list resolutions for the New Year. So what even if we fail to keep most of them…..

At one second past midnight on Sunday, the day will change to Monday, which is otherwise normal ordinary transition that happens every day, with no connotation. But somehow this change, which will end one old year and begin the next New Year 2018. That makes the difference. This unique tick of the clock has always encouraged all of us to celebrate, welcoming the New Year with new zeal and new enthusiasm. On the other hand, some people experience a sense of nostalgia as they reflect on the events that took place in their lives in the past 12 months. To step outside to live day-to-day in which we’re at all times so busy with. For many of us the last day of the year is the day to reflect back; to look flipside, take stock, to assess how we did in the year, and to cheerfully resolve to do better and look forward. Ha! Another year, it’s time to raise our glasses and toast to “our survival” yes, another year to accomplish many more things.

Some people celebrate New Year’s Eve by attending midnight church services, while others gather around in public venues such as hotels, clubs and many gather in friend’s house, grounds etc. The size of festive events for New Year’s Eve varies in size and theme. Some people attend formal masquerade balls while others have costume parties. Many New Year’s Eve celebrations are commenced with firework.

Many people start counting down to New Year’s Day in the last minute or seconds before the last night of the year ends and the New Year begins. Some people tune into watching televised countdowns. As the clock strikes midnight into New Year’s Day, many people celebrate this event by exchanging hugs, kisses, and wish each other a “Happy New Year”. In some parts of the world, including in the United States, many people sing the Scottish song “Auld Lang Syne” during the New Year’s Eve celebrations. The song means can old acquaintances be forgotten and never be brought to mind? The song references the love and kindness that was experienced in the past; it also gives listeners a sense of union and belonging to bring with them into the future. Because of its meaning it’s quite fitting song to be sung on New Year eve.

It is important to note that not all cultures follow the Gregorian calendar in observing New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. But, the Hindus, Chinese, Coptic, Jewish, Islamic calendars differ to that of the Gregorian calendar. However, for businesses around the world, 1^st Jan marks a new beginning of a calendar year.

Here’s wishing you a Merry Christmas!!

]]> https://drvidyahattangadi.com/what-is-the-meaning-of-christmas/feed/ 0 https://drvidyahattangadi.com/how-aroma-marketing-adds-to-the-christmas-festivity/ https://drvidyahattangadi.com/how-aroma-marketing-adds-to-the-christmas-festivity/#respond Mon, 22 Dec 2025 00:01:00 +0000 http://drvidyahattangadi.com/?p=5418

December is always a cheerful yet busy time of year no matter where you are in the world. You see lot of activities and festivities taking place. It is the last month of the year; people just want to enjoy it. The streets, gardens, churches, shops, and restaurants are lit up. The cool breeze has joie de vivre in it. It’s a great time to get away from home and travel somewhere to a different destination. I also like Christmas because there is an aroma in the air. More than 70% of human emotions are based on the smells. In addition, the memories of smells are saved in mind longer than visual or auditory one. The Christmas cookies, cakes, fudges, pudding and pastries add yummy smacking energy in the air. Aroma-marketing helps in increasing sales.

The pleasant smell of baked cookies and fresh-baked bread is inviting. The scent of new shoe leather or new sneakers is unforgettable; the floating aroma of freshly brewed coffee and tea is so tempting. Aromas are nurtured longer in mind and memory that is why lately the aroma-marketing (in hotels, restaurants, shops) is gaining momentum and helps to popularize the location. Aroma-marketing has a direct effect on the increasing of sales. Many major hotel or restaurant chains even “fix” a particular smell for them, for which they can be recognized.

Obviously, aroma-marketing in Christmas holidays is in demand. Favorites are the familiar scents of tangerine, pine needles, frosty freshness, peppermint, delicious pastries, sweet ginger cookies or chocolate Christmas cupcakes, the smell of chocolate and cocoa. In addition to a pleasant mood, according to the statistics, the customer loyalty increases by 20-25%.  Aroma-marketing on different markets increases sales by 7-27%, return visit to the outlets increases by 15-20%.

Marketers try to create real experience and stronger connections especially during the festivity like Christmas.  Today technology is plentiful and influences our daily life.  We have everything we need at our fingertips; we need not even step out of our homes, we get everything on our cell phones, tablets, and laptops at a click of button. But, during this time of the year, people prefer getting out from their cozy zones and like to experience the real shopping experience.

Creating sensory signatures across multiple senses in an integrated way multiplies the effects of individual sensory elements to create a bigger impression.  This is known as the multiplier effect in marketing.  By incorporating a festive mix of music, visually appealing décor, and nostalgic scents shops and restaurants invite customers.  The holistic effect is an authentic feast for the senses invites and influences holiday shoppers. Research has found that shoppers’ evaluations of stores tend to be highest at the time of year when festive music is being played, this effect enhances when the music is paired with festive scent. The research found that when music and scent were matching it makes a very positive effect on sales.

During the magical holiday season, where consumers are seeking ideas for gift purchases, retail experiences can attract shoppers into stores, inspire purchases, increase dwell time and create brand affiliation.  The opportunity to enhance a retail environment is never more appropriate, available, accepted and even expected. Consumers expect the experience of Christmas long before from end of November.   They are in festive mood and like to be nostalgic, excited.  The right experience can be a hidden persuader to the consumer with gifts to buy.

Christmas is a time of giving and sharing. It is a wonderful time of the year. From kids to older people wait for this time of the year because there is so much each one plans to do; listening to Christmas carols with a cup a cocoa is one that is matched by very few other things in life. Snuggling in a blanket with family and friends, and humming these tunes can cheer one up immensely. It encourages a feeling of closeness, and leads one to feelings of joy no matter even if someone has experienced few bad things in life.

Fairy lights and pretty decorations: New lights and fresh decorations mixed with old ones give a feeling of warmth and happiness. When these are up, everyone knows that Christmas is near, and this is enough to brighten even the gloomiest of moods. Decorating a tree is a pleasure worth experiencing in life; from draping garland, avoid branches bulging between tightly cinched garland strands between each wave. This joy is compounded when you know there is a gift waiting for you under the tree. Everyone likes to be pampered with a gift.

Family get-togethers:  This is the time when all your favorite near and dear ones gather. It is a feast time. With all the traditional dishes and sweets, the house full of festivities, and we feel like one big happy family. Yes, there is the occasional family drama, but hey, that’s what Christmas is all about. Forget all grudges, get it out of system.

Nothing evokes the holiday season like the invigorating smell of an authentic white pine and birch. The scent of fresh evergreens and crisp pine needles is stimulating also, thyme notes clear the mind and sharpen one’s focus. Colorful and lovely Orchids along with a warm message on post it note are so uplifting and relieve depression.  Warm apple cider spiced with cinnamon, clove, and whole peppercorns topped off with a subtle hint of orange peel creates cozy and nostalgic aroma.  Do you know, a lot of people think that cinnamon is the best scent of Christmas?  Another scent is cool peppermint – when it is balanced with warm, frothy vanilla it creates a comforting wintry aroma. This Christmas enjoy the aromas, pamper your senses.

Merry Christmas & Seasons Greetings to one and all!!!

For ages wise people have pondered on the question what is more important wealth or intelligence? People have spent lifetime on searching the answer to this very tricky question.    Both wealth and intelligence have almost similar usages in human life; If not used wisely both can turn out to be destructive. Both are disastrous when used imprudently. Many feel that intelligence always remains with a person which can help in real trouble; but, we have seen numerous examples of intelligent people who are helpless in troubled times without money. Intelligence also wipes out just like the wealth when someone is in real trouble. It only leaves a person left with his empty, dull and wild inner mind.

There is an interesting story why Goddess Laxmi is invoked with Lord Ganesha on Diwali day, read on:

According to the scriptures (scared writings) Goddess Lakshmi grew very proud about her supremacy in wealth and power. While having a conversation with her husband, Lord Vishnu, She kept boasting about herself in terms about her supremacy, claiming that she is the only one worthy of worship. She is the one who bestows everyone with money and wealth. On hearing her non-stop self-praise and boasting, Lord Vishnu felt she needs little humility and modesty and she must get rid of her feeling of superiority. Very calmly, Lord Vishnu said that in spite of having all the qualities, a woman remains incomplete if she does not bear children. Motherhood is the ultimate joy that a woman can experience and since Lakshmi did not have children, she cannot be deemed to be complete. On hearing this Goddess Lakshmi became extremely disillusioned.

With a heavy heart, Goddess Lakshmi went to Goddess Parvati (Lord Shiva’s wife and mother of Ganesha and Kartikeya) to seek help. Since Parvati has two sons, Goddess Laxmi expressed her desire to adopt one of her sons to experience the joy of motherhood. Parvati was reluctant to let Lakshmi adopt her any son because it is known that Lakshmi does not stay in one place for long. Laxmi is fickle by nature; Goddess Paravati felt that how would Goddess Laxmi nurture her son? Whether Laxmi would be able to give time to her child? But, Lakshmi assured Parvati that she would take care of her son in every possible way and bestow him with all the happiness in the universe. Parvati grew sympathetic towards Laxmi, Goddess Parvati let Goddess Laxmi adopt Ganesha as Her son.

Goddess Lakshmi became extremely overjoyed and said that she will bestow Ganesha with all her accomplishments and prosperity. Thereafter, those who worship Lakshmi for wealth must first worship Ganesha to seek her blessings. Those who will worship Lakshmi without Ganesha will not blessed by the Goddess. Hence, Lakshmi is always worshipped along with Ganesha on Diwali.

The rationalization of this story is universal: gaining wealth without intellect will only result in misusing the wealth. So, one must first acquire the intelligence to spend the wealth in the thoughtful and correct manner. Therefore, Lakshmi and Ganesha are worshipped together.

HAPPY DIWALI TO ONE AND ALL!!!

Traditionally, Diwali began as an important harvest festival. But, there are different legends pointing to the origin of Diwali. For some, it is the celebration of the marriage of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, with Lord Vishnu. While, some believe that it is Goddess Laxmi’s birthday, as Lakshmi is said to have been born on the new-moon day of Kartik; Bengalis celebrate it to worship Kali maa who is considered as the black goddess of strength. On the other hand, few people worship Ganesha—the elephant-headed god who is also symbol of auspiciousness and wisdom on Diwali. Some worship Laxmi, Ganesha and Saraswati – Goddess of wisdom. The Jain community celebrate Diwali to worship Lord Mahavira because he attained the eternal bliss of nirvana. For devotees of Rama, he returned to his Kingdome after his 14-year-long exile and killing the demon-king Ravana. So, worshippers of Lord Rama celebrate joy and happiness. In short, Diwali is a festival of Illuminations for travelling from dark to light.

It’s a five days celebration and each day of Diwali has its own significance.

The first day of Diwali is called Dhan Teras (Dhanvantari Triodasi), and it marks the beginning of the Diwali festivities. On this day, Lord Dhanwantari is believed to have come out of the ocean with Ayurveda, the science of medicine, for the benefit of mankind. A huge amount of buying, specifically gold, silver and precious stones, ornaments, new clothes and utensils is done on this day. In Gujarat, this day is religiously held more important than the actual Deepawali day, people worship Lakshmi, Kuber (the Hindu God of riches) and Ganesha Pooja on this day.

The second day Narak Chaturdashi is celebrated to wash off sins which we create knowingly or unknowingly. On this day, you can say sorry to all those whom you have hurt, and also ask for pardon from the Gods. The most important ritual of the Naraka Chaturdashi is, people wake up early in the morning before sunrise, apply ubtan (made up of sesame oil, herbs, flowers as well as some vital elements) on their body and take holy bath which is called Abhyang Snan. This ritual signifies washing away of sins. In this way one can get relief from all past sins.

The third day of Deepawali, marks the worship of Goddess Laxmi.  It is believed that on Laxmi Puja day she is in her most generous mood to fulfil the wishes of her devotees. Amavasya also tells the story of Lord Vishnu who, in his dwarf’s incarnation vanquished the tyrant Bali and banished him to hell. Bali is allowed to return to earth once a year to light millions of lamps and dispel darkness and ignorance while spreading the radiance of love and wisdom.

The fourth day of Diwali is celebrated as Padwa and Govardhan Puja. On this day, Govardhan Pooja is performed. Many thousands of years ago, Lord Krishna saved people from dangerous downpour caused by God Indra. Therefore, people perform Govardhan Pooja. And, Padwa is one of the auspicious days to make beginning of any good work. It is one of the Sade Theen Muhurtha, Three and half days called Sade Teen in Marathi and Muhurat means auspicious time. They are Chaitra Shukla Paksha Padyami (Prathama) – Ugadi / Gud Padwa, Vaisaka Suhkla Paksha Tritiya – Akshaya Tritiya/Akha Teej Aaswayuja (Ashwin) Shukla Paksha Dasami – Vijaya Dasami / Dussera and the Half Muhurat is on this Diwali day Padwa, also called Bali Padyami / Bestu Varsh (Gujarati New Year).

The fifth day of the Diwali is called Bhau Beej, dedicated to brother-sister relation. There is legend that Yamaraja, the Lord of Death, visited His sister – the river Yamuna on this day. He gave Yamuna a boon that whoever visits her on this day shall be liberated from all sins; they will achieve moksha (liberation). From then on, brothers visit their sisters on this day to inquire about their welfare, and many faithful people bathe in the holy waters of the Yamuna River. This day is also known as Bhai Fota among Bengalis, when the sister prays for her brother’s safety, success and well being. This day marks the end of the five days of Diwali celebrations.

Wishing you all A Very Happy Diwali and a Happy New Year!!!

Abundance is a beautiful word; it gives a feeling of completeness. The Universe responds to what we are feeling. Abundance is not related only to money. It is a about feeling of contentedness with all the goodness life has offered. The word abundance encompasses health, relationships, standard of living, profession, entertainment, affection, and status. On Dhanteras Hindus thank Goddess of abundance by doing her pooja.  The festival of Dhanteras falls in the month of Kartik which usually comes in October/November.

This auspicious day is celebrated two days before the festival of lights, the Diwali. Dhanteras holds special significance for the business community due to the customary purchases of precious metals on this day. On Dhanteras, business premises are refurbished and decorated. They are cleaned up; the entrances are decorated with flowers and mango leaves garlands. They are decorated even with motifs, Rangoli designs to welcome the Goddess Laxmi.  Small footprints are sketched with rangoli powder to signify her long-awaited arrival. Oil lamps are lit all through the day and night.

Dhanteras is considered very auspicious by Hindus; they purchase gold or silver articles or at least one or two new utensils. Some people buy large quantity of grains on this day. Gold, silver, metal, grains are considered as “Dhan” wealth and good luck among Hindus. You will hear devotional songs in praise of Goddess Lakshmi in many people’s house on Dhanteras.

Hindus also worship Lord Kuber who is believed to be the treasurer of wealth.  The meaning of the name ‘Kuber’ in Sanskrit is ‘poorly–shaped.’ I am yet to see Lord Kubera’s well shaped statue in any temple; it seems he assists the Goddess of wealth. His name is derived from ‘kumba’ which means ‘to conceal.’ You will see Lord Kubera as fat and dwarf man embedded with lot of jewelry and carrying a bag of gold coins.

On Dhanteras people worship Lakshmi and Kuber together. You will see rush in all jewellery and utensil shops on this day. People wear new clothes, ornaments, perfume as they light the first day of Diwali lamps.

The business community gambles on this day. It is considered lucky and auspicious to play cards on Dhanteras as well as Laxmi Puja. Men and women flock to clubs and friend’s houses to play cards.  It is believed that on playing cards, the goddess of wealth smiles upon the player and ensures her goodwill. Well, the winners can enjoy the windfall and the losers can wait for the next Diwali to come around! It is a festival of gaiety and prosperity. It is also believed by some people that losers are in for some good news. So many players relax and take the game lightly – for the sake of losing!

Dhanteras marks the beginning of Diwali. And, Diwali is a festival of abundance. The festival of Diwali or Deepavali symbolizes the victory of good over evil. The Sanskrit word “Deepavali” means “an assortment of lights.” The lights signify the conquest of brightness over darkness. It is festival to cheer, new beginning, and gathering, giving and receiving.  India is a spiritually oriented country. Spirituality lies in the ethnicity of this country. Therefore, festivity is a part and parcel of Indians. The varieties of festivals are directly linked to its cultural heritage.

Diwali is a festival of abundance; galore of sweets, lights, clothes and gifts.  It is about giving and receiving. We give gifts to our neighbors, friends and relatives to make this festival more special.  Gifts are a great way to express your feelings, love and appreciation. A gift says thousand things without speaking and is a binder in any relationship. Everyone loves to receive gifts from the person they like or love. At the same time, you would also like to express your feelings with the help of this gifts giving custom. Yes, you would agree on that it has become customary to give presents to your near and dear ones on any special occasion or just to make any day an occasion that they would remember when look at that gift.

Friends, abundance begins in the mind. Cultivate the belief of abundance in your life by enjoying each day. Abundance is a feeling of warmth; it is about enjoying each day with your family, each one’s small or big accomplishments, good food, good music, travelling, pursuing your hobby, and entertainment. Abundance is seeing a seedling grow; sprouting of flowers, soaking in rains, soaking in sunlight on a cold day. It is simply a feeling of fulfillment, of being filled with goodness. No matter what you are doing and where you are learn to nurture the feeling of abundance.

WISHING YOU ALL A VERY HAPPY AND PROSPEROUS DIWALI!!!

Shailputri

After her self-sacrifice, immolation, Goddess Parvati took birth as Lord Himalaya’s daughter. In this form, she is called Shailputri. A girl’s journey begins with role of a daughter. In Sanskrit, Shail means mountain. Hence, Shailputri means the daughter of the mountain. Shailputri represents the early and innocent stage of life of a girl.  She loved spending time in the beautiful hills and valleys surrounding her home. She is  often depicted riding a bull (Nandi) and adorned with a crescent moon on her forehead. Shailputri holds a trident in her right hand and a lotus flower damru (power drum)  in her left, which showcases her powerful yet nurturing nature. Shailpautri rules our Muladhar Chakra. The Muladhara chakra, also known as the root chakra which , is the foundation of the energy body, situated at the base of the spine and associated with grounding, stability, and a sense of security. Goddess Shailputri is worshipped on the first day of Navratri.

Brahmacharini

Shailaputri grows and becomes Brahmacharini to learn, to study different arts, science. She is the second form of Goddess Durga who is worshipped on the second day of Navratri. She symbolizes devotion, penance, and inner strength, with devotees seeking blessings for spiritual growth and purity. “Brahma” signifies penance or tapasya, and “Charini” means one who practices or performs.  At this stage of life, a girl is a learner of arts, culture, science etc. She gains distinct knowledge. She is a student. Brahmacharini is  associated with the Swadhisthana chakra, also known as the sacral chakra, which is linked to creativity, emotional well-being, and the ability to be in touch with oneself. She is symbolised as a serene figure, often walking barefoot, carrying a rosary (japamala) and a water pot (kamandalu), representing her simple life and intense meditation. Worshipping her is believed to gain strength, patience, and spiritual growth in devotees. She embodies peace, sacrifice, and resilience.  She is adorned with white colour which is the auspicious colour for Maa Brahmacharini, representing her intense penance and sacrifice. 

Chandraghanta

Brahmacharini marries Shiva and becomes Chndraghanta. This fearsome form of Parvati, with the knife in one hand and Ghanta in the other; Moon on the forehead and sitting on a wolf is named Chandraghanta by Brahmadev. Here she is married Shiva. She carries the crescent moon of her husband. She embodies  peace, bravery, and serenity, and is believed to grant devotees strength to overcome obstacles and fear, guiding them towards harmony and spiritual growth. Chandraghanta is associated with the Manipura Chakra (Solar Plexus Chakra), which is located at the navel and is associated with personal power, determination, and self-esteem. This chakra is considered the energy powerhouse of the body, located in the solar plexus area. Chandgraghanta cares about her husband’s wellbeing, and she cares for his self-esteem too. She is caring and loving towards her husband, and she supports his endeavours. She is his best friend and supporter. During the battle between her and the demons, the thunderous sound produced by her bell paralyzed and stunned the demons. She is ever ready to fight which shows her eagerness to destroy the foes of her devotees. She appreciates her husband Shiva’s devotees.

Kushmanda

Chandraghanta is now ready to become a mother. She is portrayed carrying “little warm cosmic egg,” signifying her role as the mother, creator of the universe with a divine smile. “Kushmanda” is a compound word made up of “Ku” (meaning little), “Ushma” (meaning warmth), and “Anda” (meaning cosmic egg). She is considered the creator of the universe, believed to have brought the universe into existence with her divine smile. A lady becomes a mother when she gives birth to a child or adopts a child. This marks a significant transition in her life, involving physical, emotional, and psychological changes. A woman is a grown from of a female child, while a mother is a woman with child/children, or any women that exhibits motherly attributes. All Female Child Are Mothers! A woman is a woman until she becomes a mother. Kumari Puja, also known as Kanya Puja, which is performed to honour young girls as pictures of Goddess Durga, signifying the divine feminine energy and seeking her blessings for health and prosperity. Maa Kushmanda stays in the Anahata Chakra (or heart chakra), which is also known as the green-hued chakra which is considered the centre of love, compassion, and emotional balance. 

Katyayini

Maa Kushmanda becomes Katyayini. A woman goes through many up and downs in her life because life is complex. But a woman also has lots of inner strength. Katyayini is known as the destroyer of evil, praying to Maa Katyayani is said to cleanse the sins of the devotees, she drives out evil spirits and removes obstacles from our life. The sixth avatar, who is also known as Mahalakshmi was guided to kill the demon Mahishasura.  For  doing this job,  Katyayeni, had been given powers by all gods. It is said that Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva and other gods produced and emitted out energy from their eyes, and this energy formed “Devi Katyayeni”. She is the one who killed “Mahishasur”  and thus she is also called as “Mahishasurmardini”. She is considered as the deity of the “Ajna Chakra”, which is called “Third Eye Chakra” in English. Yogis and sadhakas concentrate on this chakra to for getting empowered internally. The third eye chakra helps us make sense of the world by connecting the dots between what we see externally and what we understand internally. It is our inner teacher, the source of intuition that leads us toward clarity and meaning in our everyday experiences.

Kaalratri

Katyayini becomes Kaalratri known for her fierce appearance and power to destroy darkness and ignorance, while also granting blessings and protection on her devotees. The appearance of Kalaratri can be seen as bearing catastrophe for evil doers. But she always bears good fruits for her devotees who avoid fear and worship her. She removes the darkness of worry from life of such devotees.  She is the goddess who removes darkness and ushers in light. Her name is derived from two words: ‘Kala’, meaning time or death, and ‘Ratri’, meaning night. Maa Kalratri is often depicted with a dark complexion, fiery eyes, and dishevelled hair. Kaal Ratri, a fierce manifestation of Durga which is associated with both the Muladhara (root) chakra and the Sahasrara (crown) chakra. She is believed to reside in the Muladhara chakra, which represents the base of the spine and is associated with stability and grounding. Additionally, she is linked to the Sahasrara chakra, the crown chakra, which is located at the top of the head and is associated with higher consciousness, spiritual awakening, and the dissolution of time.  Fierce women are those who are not afraid to speak their minds, they accept challenge to fight against injustice, and advocate for their rights and the rights of others. They demonstrate resilience and strength in the face of challenges, not giving up easily and pushing through obstacles. 

Mahagauri

Kaalratri takes the form of Mahagauri. Mahagauri is the eighth form of Goddess Durga among the Navadurgas, representing purity, peace, and tranquillity. She is known for her fair, glowing complexion, symbolizing her superiority over darkness and impurities. Devotees seek her blessings for spiritual growth, inner peace, and the removal of obstacles. Mahagauri is depicted as a radiant figure, often wearing white garments and riding a white bull, “Maha” means great and “Gauri” means fair or bright, reflecting her radiant and pure nature, she is also considered the embodiment of wisdom and spiritual transformation. Her name, “Mahagauri,” literally translates to “extremely fair” or “greatly radiant,” reflecting her luminous complexion and purity. Mahagauri is traditionally associated with the Sahasrara Chakra, also known as the Crown Chakra, which is located at the top of the head. This chakra is considered the seat of spiritual awakening, enlightenment, and divine consciousness. Mahagauri’s energy is believed to activate and purify the Sahasrara Chakra, facilitating spiritual growth and connection with the divine. 

Mahagauri, an aspect of the goddess Durga, depicts a woman who endured a transformative spiritual journey. She is characterized by her fair complexion, a symbol of purity, and her serene nature. Her story involves performing intense penance, which initially caused her skin to darken, followed by a cleansing by Lord Shiva, which restored her radiant glow. This transformation symbolizes the ability to shed burdens and emerge renewed through devotion and self-purification which comes when a lady who has seen adversities but has crossed them with grace and dignity.

Siddhidatri

Mahagauri becomes Siddhidatri, the ninth form of the Hindu goddess Durga, who is worshipped for her supernatural powers and the giver of divine blessings. She is revered on the ninth day of Navaratri and is believed to grant devotees their desires, spiritual upliftment, and the achievement of both worldly and spiritual goals. “Siddhi” means supernatural power or perfection, while “Datri” means giver or bestower. She is often depicted sitting on a lotus or riding a lion. Devotees believe she grants blessings, fulfilment of  desires, and provides spiritual upliftment. She symbolizes spiritual wisdom, execution, and divine blessings. 

There are eight Siddhis in maa Sddhidatri: Anima which means the ability to become extremely small, one can become small to achieve big things in life. Here becoming small means minus ego.  Mahima means the greatness or glory. Garima means bestower of perfection.  Laghima is the ability to become extremely light or weightless, again this means to get rid of ego and become selfless.  Prapti is the ability to acquire something.  Prakamya is bestower of knowledge and refinement, Lishitva means someone who is distinguished and Vashitva means someone who is mesmerising.

Maa Siddhidatri is associated with both the Ajna chakra (third eye) and the Sahasrara chakra (crown chakra). The Ajna chakra is linked to intuition and foresight, while the Sahasrara chakra represents divine connection and unlimited knowledge. Siddhidatri is depicted in a way that suggests a woman who feels satisfied one who has fulfilled her desires. She is shown as a divine figure radiance, serenity and calmness, often seated on a lotus flower, which symbolizes purity and spiritual power. 

Conclusion

Each avatar embodies different qualities as Shailaputri embodies supreme strength in oneself, Brahmacharini is purity and devotion of the soul, Chandraghanta is serenity and peace within, Kushmanda is creativity and nourishment, Skandamata is motherly love and protection of the family and mankind, Katyayani is courage, Kaalratri is destroyer of bad things,  Mahagowri as wisdom and Siddhidatri as lady who has lived her life, fulfilled her desires and is full of insights who blesses people.