Ankle Bells:
Small metallic bells strung together or sewn to leather that are worn on the ankles of Indian classical dancers to create rhythmic sounds during performances. Referred to as “ghungroo” in Hindi and Salangai in Tamil. They are a crucial part of various Indiance forms including Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Odissi, and Kuchipudi.
Baluchari:
A traditional Indian silk saree style, originating from West Bengal. It’s characterized by intricate weaving, particularly on the pallu (the decorative end piece of the saree), often depicting scenes from Indian epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The sarees are known for their rich colors, elaborate designs, and the use of high-quality silk threads.
Bandhani:
An Indian textile art style characterized by a tie-dye technique where fabric is pinched and tied with thread before dyeing, creating intricate patterns of dots and other designs. Originating in Gujarat and Rajasthan, it’s also known as bandhej. The technique involves tying small portions of the fabric with thread to resist the dye, resulting in vibrant, colorful patterns when the threads are removed.
Bodhi:
The Bodhi, Ficus religiosa, is a large, sacred fig tree deeply significant in Buddhism. It is most famous as the tree under which Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism, attained enlightenment (bodhi) and became the Buddha.
Buddha/Buddhism
The most well-known figure with this title is Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism, who lived in the region of modern-day Nepal and India sometime between the 6th and 4th century BCE. A religion and philosophy founded on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha, who lived in ancient India around the 6th century BCE. It emphasizes personal spiritual development and understanding the nature of reality to achieve enlightenment and escape suffering. Buddhists do not worship a god or deities, but rather focus on practices like meditation and ethical conduct to reach Nirvana, a state of liberation.
Celtic
An art form associated with the peoples known as Celts, who spoke Celtic languages in Europe from prehistory to the modern period, as well as art of ancient peoples whose language is uncertain but have cultural and stylistic similarities with Celtic language speakers. Celtic Knots: These are a variety of knots and stylized graphical representations of knots used for decoration. They became prominent in the Celtic style of Insular art. Meaning: Celtic knots generally symbolize interconnectedness, eternity, and the cycle of life, death, and rebirth.
Chakra
Chakras are considered to be energy centers in the body, a concept rooted in East Indian religion and spirituality. They are often depicted as spinning wheels or vortices of energy. The most commonly known system features seven main chakras, each associated with specific physical, emotional, and spiritual, and attributes. The seven main chakras are each associated with a specific color: Root Chakra (Red), Sacral Chakra (Orange), Solar Plexus Chakra (Yellow), Heart Chakra (Green), Throat Chakra (Blue), Third Eye Chakra (Indigo), and Crown Chakra (Violet or White). These colors are believed to correspond to the energetic frequencies and meanings of each chakra.
Chikankari
A delicate patterns created using motifs such as paisleys, florals, and vines that resemble white thread or lace embroidery
Damaru
A small two-headed drum, primarily used in Hinduism and Tibetan Buddhism. In Hinduism, it’s associated with the deity Shiva and is believed to have been created by him to produce the sounds that regulate the universe. In Tibetan Buddhism, it’s used in rituals and considered a powerful tool for protection.
Dronagiri
A mountain peak in the Himalayas. It holds significant importance in Hindu mythology, particularly in the epic Ramayana, as the mountain from which Lord Hanuman retrieved the Sanjeevani Booti (a life-saving herb) to revive Lord Lakshmana.
Eight Auspicious Symbols
The eight Buddhist treasures, also known as the eight auspicious symbols or Ashtamangala, are a group of symbols with deep significance in Buddhism, particularly in Tibetan Buddhism. Dharma Wheel (Dharmachakra): represents the Buddha’s teachings. Eternal Knot (Srivatsa): Symbolizes the interconnectedness of everything and the cyclical nature of existence. Lotus Flower (Padma): Symbolizes purity, enlightenment, and rebirth. Paired Golden Fish (Gaurmatsya): Symbolizes happiness, freedom, and liberation from suffering. Parasol (Chatraratna): Protects from suffering and evil influences, symbolizing royalty and spiritual authority. Treasure Vase (Bumpa): Represents wealth, prosperity, and spiritual abundance. Victory Banner (Dhvaja): Represents the Buddha’s victory over Mara (the demon of illusion) and the triumph of wisdom over ignorance. Conch Shell (Sankha): represents the far-reaching sound of the Buddha’s voice and the spread of his teachings.
Eternal Knot
The eternal knot, also known as the endless knot, is a significant symbol in various cultures, particularly in Buddhism and Hinduism. It represents the interconnectedness of all things, the cycle of life and death, and the endless wisdom and compassion of the Buddha.
Evil Eye
A blue/turquoise design resembling eyes that is a popular symbol in various cultures, often used as a protective talisman or amulet. It is believed to protect against the “evil eye” curse, which is a malevolent glare thought to bring misfortune, harm, or bad luck caused by envy or ill will.
Flower of Life
A geometric symbol composed of seven overlapping circles, considered a fundamental pattern in sacred geometry. It represents the interconnectedness of life and the cyclical nature of creation.
Ganesha (vinayak)
Ganesha, a predominate deity in the Hindu pantheon, is known as the remover of obstacles and the God of beginnings, wisdom, and intellect. The elephant head represents wisdom and the ability to overcome obstacles. The large belly symbolizes prosperity and abundance. The broken tusk, which Ganesha uses as a pen, symbolizes sacrifice and the ability to overcome challenges,
Hamsa
A hand-shaped amulet or symbol used in many cultures, primarily as a protective symbol against the evil eye and other negative forces.
Hanuman
Hanuman is a revered figure in Hinduism, often depicted as a monkey deity symbolizing strength and devotion, particularly to Lord Rama. He is a central character in the Ramayana, renowned for his unwavering loyalty and various feats of strength and bravery.
kailash
Mount Kailash is situated in the Kailash Range (Gangdisê Mountains) of the Transhimalaya, in the western part of the Tibetan Plateau. It is revered as the abode of Lord Shiva in Hinduism, who is believed to reside there in eternal meditation with his consort Parvati and their children.
Kalamkari
Indian fabric designs inspired by plants, minerals, and other organic materials.
Karna
In the Hindu epic Mahabharata, Karna is a prominent, complex character, often seen as a tragic hero with both admirable traits and flaws. He was born to Princess Kunti (mother of the Pandavas) and the Sun god Surya. Unmarried, Kunti abandoned Karna at birth, floating him in a basket on the Ganges River to avoid social stigma. He was adopted and raised by Radha and Adhiratha Nandana, a charioteer and his wife. Throughout his upbringing, Karna experienced discrimination due to his perceived lower caste, fueling a strong desire for recognition and status.
Kumkum
A red or vermillion powder used in Hindu rituals and ceremonies, often applied to the forehead as a bindi or tilak. It symbolizes auspiciousness, marital status, and is used in various religious practices and social gatherings.
L’Chaim
A Hebrew phrase that translates to “to life”. It’s a common toast, often said when raising a glass in celebration or to wish someone well, similar to saying “cheers” or “to your health” in English.
Lotus
The lotus flower’s symbolism, particularly its association with purity and spiritual awakening, stems from its unique ability to grow in muddy waters while emerging with clean, pristine blossoms.
Mahabharata
The Mahabharata, a central epic poem of ancient India, tells the story of a dynastic struggle between two family branches, the Pandavas and Kauravas, vying for the Hastinapura throne in the Kurukshetra War. It is the longest epic poem known, at 100,000 verses, and includes smaller narratives and philosophical discussions, including the Bhagavad Gita. Composed by Vyasa, a character within the epic, the events unfold across the Indian subcontinent. The Mahabharata holds great significance as a major literary and religious text in India and globally.
Mudra
In Indian classical dance, particularly styles such as Bharatanatyam, Kathak, and Odissi, mudras are symbolic hand gestures used to convey meaning, stories, and emotions. They act as a visual language, adding layers of depth and expressiveness to the dance.
Om (Aum)
A sacred sound and a spiritual symbol in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. It represents the essence of the universe, consciousness, and the ultimate reality. It is often chanted during meditation and yoga practices.
Paisley
Of persian design, it consists of a mango or tear-driop shaped pattern.
Phulkari
A traditional Indian embroidery technique reflecting intricate floral and geometric patterns.
Ramayana
The Ramayana, a major Sanskrit epic by Valmiki, tells the story of Rama, an avatar of Vishnu, a prince of Ayodhya. Due to a palace intrigue stirred by his stepmother, Kaikeyi, Rama is exiled for fourteen years. He spends these years in the forest with his wife, Sita, and brother, Lakshmana, where Sita is abducted by the demon king Ravana. Rama, aided by Hanuman, ultimately defeats Ravana to rescue Sita and returns to Ayodhya, where he is crowned king.
Sacred Geometry
Sacred geometry refers to geometric patterns that appear repeatedly in nature, art and science and are thought to reflect universal truths. It’s a mathematical language that explores the relationship between the parts and the whole in nature and the universe.
Saraswati Yantra
This yantra is a geometric desigm representing Goddess Saraswati, the deity of learning and the arts. It is used to invoke her blessings for success in studies, creative pursuits, and overall intellectual development.
Shalom
A Hebrew word that generally translates to “peace”. It’s used as both a greeting and a farewell, similar to “hello” or “goodbye”. However, its meaning extends beyond simple greetings; it signifies a state of wholeness, completeness, well-being, and harmony.
Shani Yantra
A Shani Yantra is a Hindu mystical diagram used to invoke the blessings of Lord Shani (Saturn) and mitigate its negative influences. It’s believed to help reduce the malefic effects of a poorly placed Saturn in one’s horoscope, bringing stability, success, and protection.
Shiva
Shiva is a major Hindu deity, one of the principal deities of Hinduism, often regarded as the destroyer or transformer within the Hindu trimurti (or trinity). He is also associated with the concept of cyclical time, destruction, and recreation, and is revered as the source of both good and evil.
Temple Border
A temple border saree is a traditional Indian saree characterized by its distinctive border featuring motifs inspired by the architecture of South Indian temples.
Trident
In Hinduism, the trident, known as trishula, is a powerful symbol strongly associated with Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities. It represents not just a weapon but also profound spiritual concepts, particularly the three fundamental aspects of existence: creation, preservation, and destruction.
Vel (divine spear)
Lord Murugan is associated with a Vel (divine spear) which is embodied with divine strength, wisdom, and the triumph of good over evil.
Yantra (Sri Yantra)
The Sri Yantra is a sacred geometric diagram composed of nine interlocking triangles. Four triangles pointing upwards represent masculine (Shiva) energy, and five pointing downwards represent feminine (Shakti) energy, reflecting a balance of cosmic forces. It is considered the visual representation of the sound Aum and a blueprint of the universe, encoding principles of sacred geometry, cosmology, and consciousness into a single symbol. Meditating on the Sri Yantra is believed to realign energy, clear obstacles, accelerate manifestation, and guide one from material existence to spiritual realization through focused intention.
Yin Yang
Yin and yang, often depicted as the Taijitu symbol, represents the concept of duality and interconnectedness in Chinese philosophy. It embodies the idea that seemingly opposite forces are actually complementary and interdependent, constantly interacting and transforming into one another.
