amjamin

Grand Market – fuzzy, warm, on a crescendo

2026-10-07T17:39:17.548-07:00

A pan of the Grand Market at CARIFESTA XV, Barbados

Grand Market – the mention of it brings fond memories for many. It is the time of the year when festivities are in the air, the breeze is cool ... and, of course, it’s the ‘most wonderful time of the year’. Yes, we’re at the cusp of officially being in that mode ... but that’s a later conversation.

There was much excitement, people making a beeline on a narrow makeshift road, surrounded by greenery, in Waterford, St Michael. The literal and figurative off the beaten path came alive as an open field was converted, replete with tents, canopies and tall makeshift structures, to house the Grand Market at CARIFESTA XV, held in Barbados.

The market, converging modernity with tradition, the organisers said, was a testimonial of “Caribbean ingenuity and sustainable spirit”. From whiffs of aromas emitting from the food stalls to the beats of the drums and impromptu dances in the space, liveliness was all over the place. The Grand Market brought under one roof a heady compendium of the arts – performing, culinary, fine, literary, and more; a fashion show here, a literary workshop there; musicians, dancers, and singers taking centrestage, and of course, people milling around.

VIBRANCY

A visitor checks out handmade jewellery at the CARIFESTA XV Grand Market

From the periphery, the venue may have, for some, looked erratic, but for us – citizens of the global south – that is vibrancy, for in any proverbial chaos, we find just that.

“I like the concept of housing everything under one roof,” said Shamkoe Pilé, a communications professional who came with her daughters. “We could shop, eat, lyme, and enjoy performances all in one trip.”

People from Caribbean nations converged on the Grand Market, each showcasing their crafts and skills.

Shantal Munro-Knight, the minister in the Prime Minister’s Office with responsibility for culture, in Barbados, in an official communiqué, described CARIFESTA and the Grand Market as being built on three transformative pillars:

• Where we have come from: Honouring our heritage

• Where we are: Celebrating Caribbean excellence

• Where we are going: Building a sustainable and resilient future

The third pillar, focusing on sustainability and resilience, according to Munro-Knight, took the spotlight at the Grand Market’s eco-conscious showcase.

“Here, visitors encounter a vibrant array of goods crafted from natural and upcycled materials, proof that Caribbean creativity is not only rooted in history but also boldly shaping the future,” she said.

Jewellery on display at the CARIFESTA XV Grand Market

“This is where tradition meets innovation,” she added. “We’re exploring how Caribbean culture can adapt to global challenges, climate action, economic sustainability, and social progress while preserving the soul of our heritage.”

Robert Campbell, Peter Peart, and Alphonso Blake were among the Jamaican fine artists at the Grand Market, interacting with the visitors, explaining the inspirations of their artistic styles. Some of their artwork found patrons who purchased their pieces.

“There was some innovation from one of the Jamaican artists I saw,” remarked Pilé, checking out a light switch cover painted by Peart. “He is taking art to another level ... . I like that touch of innovation, and this is the first I ever saw it.” One of his art pieces has found a place in her home. For Pilé, the Grand Market was where she could be a kid in a candy shop, checking out the unique handmade items.

A HIT

Handmade slippers on display at the Grand Market

Campbell, meanwhile, was whipping up more than creative juices. He was switching between swishing paintbrushes to stirring the pot – his stew chicken and rice and peas were a hit.

“Di soup did popular,” he remarked, adjusting the net cap, holding a ladle as he sprinkled spices and seasoning in a bubbling pot.

“Mi a go jerk tomarro,” Campbell said – he was cooking up a storm.

Elsewhere, doubles were being served with pepper sauce or crispy fish and chips frying ... a curry heaven, shall we say? (Curry, in this instance, the mixed spice ... each ingredient bringing its unique colour and taste to the party).

Back in the main square, under a coloured canopy stretched across and on the mainstage, people were swaying to the beats of nyabinghi drums.

Pilé and her daughters, clutching their goodies, were immersed in the performances and learning a thing or two. “Mummy,” her 10-year-old remarked. ”I didn’t know there is a country called Cayman Islands.”

They returned subsequently and soaked in culture. “While the performances were enjoyable, they were also educational,” Pilé said. For her, the high point was when her daughters got to see the Vincentian (St Vincent and the Grenadines) performances. “They were really happy to see a bit of their grandparents’ country,” she remarked.

Others, we are sure, were soaking up and sharing the same experiences.

The rain gods also graced the occasion, a shower or two cooling down the place and giving relief from the humidity. Bimshire was being soaked with creativity and showers of blessings, and the Grand Market was hitting a high note.

Photos courtesy: Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. CARIFESTA XV was organized in August - September 2025

Erica David – Peace Corps Volunteer, writer … a superhero

2026-05-24T20:31:10.870-07:00

Eria David

For Erica David, memories of her four-year-old self growing up in Philadelphia, are still fresh as the aroma of pancakes from her visits to IHOP. So, what’s the correlation between pancakes and Erica? As it’s said, inspiration comes from unexpected places. For her, it was the pancakes ... or was it?

“My mother said that I wrote my first poem at age four. It was a bit of blank verse titled ‘On the way to the IHOP’” David said. “It was a spontaneous poem prompted by a love of pancakes that my mother jotted down on a scrap of paper ... . “That’s the myth, anyway,” she hastily added. “I think that what actually made me a writer was two parts boredom, one part jealousy.” Even if pancakes being the source of inspiration was a myth … she articulated as a chef.

David said, she used to get bored easily until one day her mother handed her a pencil (for the benefit of Gen Z and beyond folks, that is a writing instrument). She was jealous of her cool older cousin who used to write stories, and it looked like fun. “I was jealous of the fun she was having,” David said, adding. “You know, this is beginning to sound a bit like the origin story of a super villain …

“But, hero or villain, I’ve always written since a young age, and it wasn’t until after university that I realised I could make a living as a writer, somehow.”

Erica worked in consumer products for Nickelodeon, she knew the publisher who produced books based on their children’s shows, and eventually she was offered several of those projects.

That was at the turn of the century – early 2000s … she hasn’t looked back since. “I have published 63 books at last count. All are based on existing characters, television shows and movies from Dora the Explorer and SpongeBob SquarePants to Frozen and Spider Man.”

JOURNEY AS PEACECORPS VOLUNTEER

Fast forward, David was working as the director of a writing program for non-native English speakers at a university. All were fluent in English but needed additional support in writing, particularly writing college research papers and the nuances of American academic English.

As the director, she taught first-year writing classes and held academic advising sessions with students, and that also began her journey into Peace Corps.

“My desire to join the Peace Corps was the product of one of these sessions. I had a student who was interested in eventually operating an orphanage in Haiti. In planning for her upcoming semester, we talked about possible experiences that would expose her to the world of aid organizations and development work.

Erica conducting reading session with a student

“She had never heard of Peace Corps, so I promised to forward some information to her. As I researched, I became more and more interested in becoming a volunteer myself. At the time, I saw it as a way to honor the experiences of my current students, who were speaking a second, or even third, language, while navigating a culture that they hadn’t grown up with. I felt that this experience would make me a well-rounded educator and give me an opportunity to devote a year or two in service to others.”

She packed her bags and came to Jamaica as a Peace Corps Volunteer (PCV). The thing that caught her eye and made an impression – well, every PCV has their own – was hangers.

“In booths and clothing stalls in markets and communities, the wire hangers were bent in the shape of a woman’s body,” she said. “The hangers create the shapes of ample hips, breasts, and butts. These “hanger women” are shapely, and the shock of this image being embraced is one of the many things I have come to appreciate about Jamaica.”

This was a first learning experience, as she was used to see rail-thin mannequins in American department stores or the underweight, oft-anorexic supermodels splashed on the covers of fashion magazines.

From a bustling city of 1.3 million, David, with images of hangers fresh in her mind, headed to St Mary’s Primary and Infant School in southeast St Elizabeth.

She got cracking, working with students in one-on-one or small group sessions outside of the classroom to improve their reading skills, using models like moulding letters out of Play-Doh with students to reinforce letter recognition or having students dribble a football over sight words to remember them.

She also ran the library at St Mary, where she observed something else.

“One of the neatest things to happen in the St Mary’s library was that I found one of my own children’s books there on the shelves,” David said. “I know it’s silly, but I took it as a sign that I was in the right place.”

ENRICHING

The experience was enriching, personally and professionally, for David. That’s something any PCV will agree to. Volunteers from a developed country, transitioning to a simpler lifestyle – from handwashing clothes, drying them on the line, no dishwashers, bathing from a bucketful of water and taking public transport (most times route taxis) … the list is exhaustive.

Back to David, who spent two years in the community, saw some gaps that she hopes will be filled. “I’ll admit that I was disappointed by my first visit to some of the libraries in my parish. I was expecting to find lots of books by Jamaican authors that I couldn’t access in the US.

“Imagine my surprise when I walked into the fiction section and saw titles by Danielle Steele, Colleen Hoover and Larry McMurtry instead,” she said, adding. “I’m hungry for stories about Jamaica by Jamaicans and I want to encourage the St Mary’s students to see themselves writers.”

For David, experiencing Jamaica has been life-changing. She said that she appreciated how her own preconceptions and ideas were bent into a new shape after being on island and regularly learning from the members of her community in Heathfield, St Elizabeth.

“Living with them and listening to their stories,” she said, “has helped me to adapt, to everything from the heat to the sense of time, which flows at a different pace from the one I am used to.”

It is a journey and part of life that has been inspiring for this prolific writer. She’s soaked them up, not only the warmth of the island, but some potent ideas which, she said, are embedded in her.

“Jamaica is definitely an inspiration for future writing projects, though I’m not sure exactly what form that will take yet,” David said. “Right now, I’m excited by the history that I’ve learned, particularly about the national heroes. Nanny of the Maroons is a striking historical figure who has sparked a lot of ideas for me. However, when it comes to books about Jamaica, I’m more excited to read the work of Jamaican authors and poets.”

David wrote a book as part of a Peace Corps climate project, focused on children. She, and a group of PCVs worked to produce three children’s books about the changing climate and how we can keep our environment healthy, protected, and safe.

Apart from writing, David is interested in the ways that language and narrative shape experience.

“Language contains its own history of harms; even today sometimes the most frequently used and casual of expressions has a dark past. By the same token, however, I find it exciting when language shifts and words are re-imagined and reclaimed.

“Learning Patwa,” she said, “has gone a long way to helping me think about the resilience of language and the people who speak it.”

Last year, David was contemplating how to celebrate 4th of July, United States’ Independence Day, this was the day after Hurricane Beryl struck Jamaica. As people were picking up the pieces in the aftermath of the storm, they found a reason for happiness. “There is sense of community and care which, for me, made 4th of July more memorable than any fireworks display.”

Now that she is back home, she would enjoy 4th of July, as she did – going to barbecues and cookouts and fireworks displays, the parade and a free concert.

We hope she will pen her Jamaican experiences soon, and keep using her superpowers, that of writing.

“Writers are like superheroes,” she said. "In that they have origin stories.” … Maybe this time its the aroma of jerk sauce

Bless up yuhself, Erica!

Logos Hope spreads messages of love and knowledge

2025-08-06T12:01:00.000-07:00

Logos Hope - the book ship powered by Christian values (Photo courtesy: GBA Ships e.V.)

Hope - it is a very powerful word, for those who believe in it, live by it, and as it is said, it makes the world go around.

Armed with a shipload of books, Logos Hope docked in Kingston. Along with it came a crew of 400 international volunteers, bringing with them their vision and purpose - that of knowledge, help, and hope to the people of the world.

"We want to share knowledge, help and hope with the people of the world," said Annika Lee, media relations officer, Logos Hope. "Knowledge is, of course, through the book fair, where we sell over 5,000 different titles of books."

The only flurry of excitement at the cement factory pier at Rockfort, Kingston, on normal days is the to and fro of an occasional cargo ship unloading raw materials for the cement company and the cars zipping past on the Sir Florizel Glasspole Highway, the arterial road to the Norman Manley International airport.

As Logos Hope opened its doors to the public on May 12, cars lined up, scrambling for a place to find parking; people started lining up, often braving the elements, and makeshift kiosks were ready to brisk business selling snacks and juices.

According to Lee, Kingston has historically been one of their busiest ports-of-call.

"We received 117,709 visitors to the ship in Kingston," she said.

Logos Hope docked in Curaçao (Photo courtesy: GBA Ships e.V.)

Operated by GBA Ships, a non-profit organization based in Germany, Logos Hope and her sister ships, Logos, Doulos, and Logos II, have, to date, visited more than 160 countries and territories since 1970. An estimated 46 million people have visited these ships.

Logos Hope was launched into service in 2009 and is the organization's largest ship.

"Many Jamaicans who visited the ships at a young age were excited to have us back!" Lee said. "It was a tremendous privilege to welcome so many on board and to see how happy they were to look through our selection of books."

The visitors had a unique experience, milling around the floating bookstore, having conversations with the crew, getting recommendations on the books to purchase. A 'kid-in-a-candy-store' scenario, this time, it was gratification for the mind and soul.

"We had many stories of building friendships between the crew and Jamaicans who visited," said Lee.

60 NATIONALITIES ON BOARD

Logos Hope is a little earth sailing the oceans. Representing 60 nationalities, the volunteers on the ship are the epitome of harmony and unity in diversity. The common thread that binds them together is love of God.

"Everyone is welcome to apply, though you have to be 18 years old and speak fluent English," said Lee.

All crew, including the captain, are unpaid volunteers. They raise support or sponsorship to live on board.

"We come from many different backgrounds," said Lee, "but are united by our desire to help other people."

The word 'logos' is Greek and is traditionally translated as 'word, thought, principle, or speech'. In the Bible, it is used to refer to the person of Jesus Christ. Logos Hope's crew members all follow Christ's example for their lives.

"We want to bring the messages of the importance of education and literacy and the importance of unity in diversity," Lee said. "We want to promote peace and help communities be aware of topics such as human trafficking and HIV/AIDS, and we want to come alongside local communities and organizations in order to encourage them."

Some of the programs in which the crew participates include school visits, human-trafficking awareness and training, building and renovation projects, and library-donation projects.

As part of their mandate, they donate books to schools and libraries and offer cultural programs and other educational programs.

"Help is through various practical aid projects such as water-purifier donations, free eyeglass testing, building and painting projects, and clothing donations," the Logos Hope media relations officer said.

TRANSFORM SOCIETIES

Logos Hope docked at Cement Coal Pier in Kingston (Photo courtesy: GBA Ships e.V.)

Lee said that it is their strong belief, and the message they spread to the world, that books have the power to transform societies. All the books sold aboard the ship are subsidized, which is the driving factor of Logo Hope's popularity.

"We believe in the power of books and education to impact communities and transform lives," Lee said. "By providing resources and materials that may not be accessible at such low prices, we can bring people together through the power of books and knowledge."

The adage, little drops of water make the mighty ocean, literally and figuratively resonates with Logos Hope. Through their relentless work, these world citizens are making a difference in their little ways.

"The ship can only stay in a port for a few weeks since there are many ports to visit around the world, but we encourage those we meet to continue valuing education, literacy, and unity even after the ship is gone," Lee said. "Volunteering to help in local organizations who have a similar vision is a great way to sustain the initiatives of Logos Hope even after we have continued to another country."

In the turbulent times that we are living in, the mission of Logos Hope in enlightening lives, spreading love and harmony, and making people believe that there is a future that is bright and replete with possibilities are drops that make the mighty ocean of human faith, bathed in the glory of Almighty God.

"That there is definitely hope for the future and that we can all learn to live together in unity despite our differences," Lee said "Logos Hope is a genuine expression of international goodwill, and in a way, it is a microcosm of what the world should look like: many people from all walks of life serving together to make the world a better place."

Article written in 2017 when Logos Hope docked in Kingston. All photos courtesy GBA Ships e.V. Logos Hope is docked in Kingston until August 19, then will be in Montego Bay from August 22 to September 14.

Artistically yours ... Weaving magic of fine art into everyday life

2024-04-18T10:57:00.000-07:00

Listen to the Podcast

Cityscape

It is a known fact that art is therapeutic in many ways than we may know. From mesmerizing strokes, myriad of expressions enrich our experiences of the oft mundane world we live in.

At its core, fine art serves, not only as a thing of beauty to be admired, but a reflection of the complexities, triumphs and tribulations of humanity. Whether a painting, sculpture, poetry, music or dance … the power of arts is rich and immense. It evokes emotions, provoke thoughts, and spark conversations.

Fine art transcends boundaries and speaks a universal language. It has always been a catalyst for cultural exchange, bridging the gaps that exist in the human interactions. Through art, we gain insights into different perspectives, histories, and appreciation that there is unity in our diversities in this interconnected world.

THERAPEUTIC

Serenity

Art is therapeutic – numerous studies show that art reduces stress, anxiety, and depression, while enhancing cognitive function, creativity, and empathy. Fine uplifts our spirits, soothe our souls, and inspire us to see the world through a new lens.

Art has been a part of human civilization from time immemorial – from ancient cave paintings to contemporary installations, art reflects the values, aspirations.

Jamaican art and artists have been making a mark through their thought provoking creations. From highlighting the serenity and beauty of the island, to capturing the myriad of expressions and warmth of Jamaican people, fine art has been weaving the country’s diverse threads into awe inspiring creations.

It is myth that art is a privilege of a select few – in fact it is there to be savored by all. You don’t have to break the bank to get a piece of artwork to spruce your spaces. In the coming weeks, we will delve into breaking down the kind of art and simplify the jargon. As George Bernard Shaw said: ‘Without art, the crudeness of reality would make the world unbearable.’

Let’s make this world a better place – through fine art.

Rain kissed evening

The artwork in this article is AI generated via https://creator.nightcafe.studio/

Tequila – a Mexican cultural tradition

2024-04-08T15:06:00.000-07:00

Master Distiller Jaime Villalobos

“It’s another tequila sunrise, starin’ slowly ‘cross the sky ...” resonates lyrics of a song by The Eagles from Los Angeles, California – their inspiration lying 1,500 miles south in Tequila, Mexico, the warmth of which touched Kingston, Jamaica, recently with the maestro – master distiller Jaime Villalobos.

“ Buenas noches señoras y señores, bienvenidos a este viaje a la tierra del Tequila (Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, welcome to this journey to the land of tequila),” Villalobos began, on the cata de Tequila. His presentation was in Spanish but, for any non-speaker, it wasn’t a blanking-out moment – his explanations flowed as smoothly as the ageing process of the brew of the evening.

So much for nostalgia – one would guess that, for a non-drinker, this is as romantic as any cocktail would make anyone else feel.

The genesis of tequila is agave, a plant that is central to Mexican culture.

“Tequila will not be there if it was not for agave,” said Juan Jose Mijares, ambassador of Mexico to Jamaica. “This plant derives its name from Greek agavos, which means admirable. So we not only enjoy tequila, we are in admiration of its existence and the joy it brings.”

The agave plant, known as Maguey in the Aztec language Nahuatl, held a central and multifaceted role in their culture and mythology. Legend has it that the goddess Mayahuel, the deity of the maguey plant, was born from the bones of the deceased, symbolising her connection to fertility and nourishment.

Agave needs anywhere between five and eight years to reach maximum sugar concentrations. During their growth period, the plants are subjected to barbeo tasks, that is, cutting the tips of the leaves to encourage the growth of the core of the agave, also known as piña. Growing agave is a labour of love and a tradition – it is still cultivated using traditional methods, by hand, and using methodologies that have been passed from generation to generation.

There are more than 200 varieties of agave, but only one can be used to produce tequila.

“Tequila is with Appellation of Origin which is made from the fermentation and subsequent distillation of sugars from the Agave Tequilana Weber blue variety,” said Villalobos. “This gives the drink its unique organoleptic (acting on, or involving the use of, the sense organs) characteristics.”

The Appellation of Origin for Tequila (DOT, by its acronym in Spanish) was the first to be issued in Mexico. There are references since 1943 about efforts by industrialists in the region to protect the name ‘tequila’ and obtain the exclusivity of its use. On September 27, 1974, it was granted protection which was published in the Official Gazette of the Federation.

The Appellation of Origin of Tequila offers the consumer the guarantee of authenticity of the products that bear this name, and is supported by the Official Mexican Standard (NOM-006-SCFI-2012) that contains the specifications for producing, bottling and marketing tequila.

TRADEMARK

The master distiller said tequila is not merely a drink that is, among other cultural treasures, the national pride of Mexico, but also a trademark.

“Both the tequila production process and the agave cultivation process must take place within the territory determined in the Declaration of Protection of the Appellation of Origin Tequila. For a product to bear the name tequila, its production must be carried out in strict compliance with the Official Mexican Standard for Tequila,” Villalobos said.

He informed that there are two categories, tequila and tequila 100 per cent agave. Tequila is made from a mixture of sugars in which at least 51 per cent must come from the Agave Tequilana Weber blue variety, while the remaining 49 per cent can originate from other natural sources of sugar that are not from the agave. The Tequila 100 per cent Agave has to be made solely from sugars from the Agave Tequilana Weber blue variety.

Villalobos took guests through the journey of savouring the brew – cata de Tequila – delving into the intricate process of pouring, swirling, smelling, then sipping it ... . “The way to do it [drink the tequila] is to swish it in your mouth, and sip it – that way you will be able to taste all the flavour profiles,” he said.

Like the transition of the sun from dawn to dusk, the colour and the flavour of tequila changes. The varieties, Villalobos explained, are: silver (b lanco o plata) – product obtained from distillation, it can be matured for less than two months in barrels; gold (j oven u oro) – mixture of silver tequila with one that has been matured; aged (reposado) – subject to a maturation process of at least two months in contact with oak containers; extra aged (añejo) – matured for at least one year in oak or encino barrels; an ultra aged (extra añejo) – matured for at least three years in oak or encino barrels.

The evening at Courtyard by Mariott hotel in New Kingston was topped off by a selection of music by Mexico City-based Chill n Go ensemble – when there is tequila, mariachi can’t be far behind.

“We thank you [the guests] for accompanying us on this journey of tequila, a round of applause for all of you,” said Mijares.

“And not to forget those who don’t drink, we respect you too ...,” that was the proverbial cherry on the top to conclude the evening.

Background information and photos courtesy of Embassy of Mexico in Jamaica and Jaime Villalobos.

Postcard from Japan: Hopes for a safer tomorrow

2023-10-15T10:19:00.001-07:00

Natsuyuki Fujimori, who works with a Tokyo based Non-Government Organization

Along the banks of Arakawa River in Tokyo, a group of people are huddled together as they listen to Minoru Igarashi's instructions on color coding for garbage separation and safety.

The group, employees of a local company, gathered to clean up the banks of the river, assisted by Arakawa Clean-Aid Forum, a Tokyo-based non-government organization.

"We are working for a common cause: to clean the river bank," said Natsuyuki Fujimori, a 20-year-old, who is one of the five full-time employees of the NGO.

Fujimori, who chose environmental protection over a corporate job, said that their team organized 159 cleaning exercises in 2015 and collected 5,602 bags of garbage - including from PET bottles, shoes, cans, baseball and tennis balls, tires, and insulin syringes.

It is a collective and community exercise. The NGO, to fund its operations, organizes cleaning exercises for companies that have environment protection as their corporate social responsibility mandate.

Groups spend a couple of hours on a weekend afternoon collecting garbage, filling out a questionnaire, and getting educated on the impact of various kinds of garbage on the environment and the food chain.

"Today's lesson," Fujimori said, "is on plastic micro pellets and the food cycle. the fish eat these pellets and these are the same fish we end up eating, with toxins in their system."

The group, after the conclusion of the cleaning exercise, got together and pumped their fists in unison for a job well done. it was a community and collective effort.

Masaki Nakatsuji, vice principal of Shichigo Elementary School, Sendai

Around 300 kilometers, north of Tokyo, at the Shichigo Elementary School in Sendai City, 33 grade two students jumped and crouched under their desks in unison as their teacher, Atsuko Kamata, gave a command. This is part of their disaster-preparedness lesson, and today, they were learning about what to do in the event of an earthquake.

"Disaster preparedness is part of our curriculum and we have allocated 30 hours in the year for grade one and two and 35 hours in the year for grade three and above," shared Masaki Nakatsuji, vice-principal of the school. The school is developing a national curriculum on disaster preparedness based on its first-hand experiences with the deadly earthquake and tsunami that left more than 20,000 people dead in Sendai and surrounding regions.

NOT A CHORE

The grade two students were divided in groups as they studied a poster with a photo of their route, on which they had to give their input on how they would react and save themselves if an earthquake struck. "I will run to a safe location and hide there," said one student. her classmate added, "I will run away from the danger."

'Prevention is better than cure', an adage that the Shishido Elementary school recognizes and follows, the institution has got the parents and community involved in the exercise to maximize the benefits of the program. From assisting in teaching students about safety practices, to cleaning the school compound, duty is pride, not a chore.

A Grade 2 student completes a form on disaster preparedness, on the desk is a poster of the route they take to get home. On the Stick-it notes are the suggestions given by students

In a grade four class, students filled out worksheets on the importance of protecting themselves at all times and being aware of their surroundings, and each had their recommendations. "These exercises," Nakatsuji said, "are an integral part of the school's curriculum, and especially after the March 2011 Tsunami, we are giving more emphasis to disaster preparedness and management."

The tsunami, which unleashed nature's fury on the human existence, was an act of God; but the laughter of the children at the elementary school and youngsters like Fujimori are a reassurance that God gives us hope, and the next generation is ready take care of their planet, for we have not inherited this earth from our ancestors, but merely borrowed it from our children.

The visit to Japan was part of 'Pacific Islands and Caribbean Journalists' Program' organized by the Tokyo-based Association for Promotion of International Cooperation (APIC), with support from the Foreign Press Centre, Japan

Naandeyé García Villegas – narrating social commentaries through her art

2023-09-24T10:21:00.000-07:00

Naandeyé García Villegas, Mexican artist who uses her creativity for social commentary.

Naandeyé García Villegas’ earliest memories of delving into creative pursuits were ‘drawing’ letters on the earliest known Word program. The palette had a choice of four fonts and black and white colors to fill – minimalism driven by technology.

“Since I was a child, I had a special interest in art. I drew a lot. I drew all the time,” Villegas said. “I loved the color and the letters.

“When I was eight years old, my parents bought me a computer and a printer,” she said. “At that time, computers still didn’t have design programs, but mine had one installed where you could write things (I guess it was a kind of Word). It was just typography. I used to spend whole afternoons making signs, ‘designing’ them, then printing them, and finally, coloring on top of them (it had all kinds of markers, colors, watercolors, oil, etc.),” she said.

This was the first taste of design for Villegas.

A great deal has changed since then. From the evolution of the gigantic diode tube machines into the hand-held smart device, the humble Word has added more fonts and stylised options, and, of course, dedicated design software is adding layers of dimensions and special effects to the final products.

In all of it, human creativity is at the core, which Villegas, and artists across the world, swear by. The media may change, but the personal artistic touch is what makes a work of art stand out on its own.

For this Mexican artist, her earliest romance of making signs in a Word file has developed into her style statement: that of minimalism married with social commentary.

“My style is characterized by the delicate use of geometric shapes to create colorful characters and backgrounds,” Villegas said. “My illustrations have intense and deep strokes. I always bet on organic shapes, nature things, and basic geometric figures. My favorite figure is the circle, and it is the protagonist in almost all my compositions. In general, I am looking for an environment that manifests itself strongly.”

She is mixing the hues of the palette with messages.

“I have a holistic vision about life, and I like that this is expressed in my work,” Villegas said. “I like to define graphic concepts in a minimalist way. My graphic style is flat, and the topics I like to tackle the most include social criticism, culture, the environment, and women.”

REGGAE POSTER CONTEST WINNER

Villegas entered the Reggae Poster Contest 2020. Her entry, One Love, was selected as Grand Winner among 667 entries.

“The poster I designed is an initiative that through the visual arts, seeks to celebrate Jamaican music, specifically reggae,” she said.

One Love - award-winning poster of Reggae Poster Contest 2020

Villegas explained that she wanted to represent reggae in a symbolic and universal way for which she used the symbol of love and peace, a dancing character, and the colors that have been linked to the Rastafarian movement.

“These elements have a complex and deep ideology behind themselves,” she said. “Colors have a very deep meaning within Rastafarian ideology, and I found the message behind them extremely powerful, and I did not hesitate to use them. Green represents the beauty of the land and its vegetation that is cared for and respected by the Rasta. Yellow represents the wealth and prosperity of its origins in Africa. Red represents spilled blood, each martyr who has marked the history of the Rastas fighting for their liberation ideology.”

Her theme and inspiration came from Bob Marley’s One Love, which according to Villegas, summarizes very well the ideology that she wanted to represent and with which she identifies herself.

“I have a holistic view of life. That’s why I think that everything is one thing and that we all belong to the same thing, That’s what I wanted to convey,” she said.

The poster design, she said, is a narrative for the collective conscience, which denounces inadmissible, socially unjust situations that threaten the natural order of the universe, which are the overarching themes of her works.

“They (her works) revolve around the power of visual expression as a tool to feel, raise awareness, and sensitize, in this case, through design and illustration,” Villegas said. “In general, the theme that I have wanted to represent through my work is the power and influence of the poster and illustration in our culture, understood as a regenerative visual expression.”

Ecstatic with this win, which is one of many feathers in her cap, Villegas wants to continue her artistic journey, sharing her works, which she says are deeply entrenched in simplicity and harmony where both color and shape and typography can work in balance.

“I try to be spontaneous, and I also try to make my work full of symbols,” she said. “All my work is a syncretism of my own experience, the artists that I admire, and the projects that I have developed previously.”

She said that she is constantly deriving inspiration from her travels, Mexican ancestral cultures, Mexican graphic culture, women, contemporary art, surrealism, expressionism, cinematography, music, museums, and from other illustrators, designers, and poster designers works.

FORAY INTO THE ARTS

Naandeyé García Villegas

Turning the clock back from where we began, Villegas’ artistic journey evolved from the ‘word art’ into graphics. “I always enrolled in workshops that had to do with painting, drawing, and creativity, from poetry, mask workshops, experimental painting workshops, creativity and psychology, etc. That left a mark on me forever and pressed my taste for graphic arts,” she said.

Drawing came as a second nature to her, which she said stuck to her as she grew older. When the time came to choose a career path, there were no second guesses. “Without hesitation, I chose design and visual communication, and during those (university) years, I consolidated my interest for art, design, graphic communication, color, and typography.”

Villegas worked as a graphic designer after university. She began teaching, too. “I was passionate about understanding the symbiology of formats and colors. I read a lot about design theory and art theory. However, I felt that something was missing.”

Women with Dignity

After much introspection and retrospection, she found her path to express her many political and social concerns; combine design, art, politics, and culture in illustration; and creating posters with social narratives.

Her subsequent travels have opened Villegas to broader global social narratives and enhanced her creativity. She lived in Spain for five years, which allowed her to travel around Europe. Each one of the trips, she said, deeply opened her perception of things, of art and reality.

“Specifically, the trips I made to Berlin made me realise that the poster is more alive than ever. That design does not necessarily have to be expressed in a consumer medium. I got to know interactive art in all its expressions, and it gave me another perception of reality,” she said, adding that the museums and exhibitions that she visited were a rich source of inspiration.

“One of the wonders of travelling is to able to appreciate the cultural wealth of each country,” The representation of reality is very different in each place I have visited. It is particularly that vast variety that enriches us as humanity,” she said. “For example, Latin American graphic design is very different from Nordic design. They are almost antagonistic, and it is just that antagonism that makes them spectacular.”

RELEVANCE OF ART

Poster for Chicago Latino Film Festival

According to Villegas, fine art has always been a testimony of what happens to humanity, and it is a way in which we represent reality, both individually and collectively. She is upbeat about future prospects, and the current COVID-19 pandemic presents an opportunity to create messages that would alleviate humanity.

“This is not the first epidemic that humanity has faced, and similar situations have occurred throughout history. Thanks to the testimonies that great artists who lived through epidemics have left us (and even inspired some works in them). We have a cultural legacy that allows us to know our history,” she said.

In the post COVID-19 world, in which we will have to adapt to a “new normal”, according to Villegas, art cannot and should not be out of the equation. “It collectively emancipates us. It socially relieves us,” Villegas said. Quoting Argentine painter Carlos Alonso, she said: “Leaving a testimony of our time is the utopia that calls us to continue living.”

“Art must always be present. It helps us to break fear and silence,” she said.

Sawara – a walk back in time

2023-09-09T08:53:00.000-07:00

Ono river and town of Sawara.

"What I found out was ... ," said Moeko Kita, " ... there are cats here and there!" Given the significance of cats in Japanese culture – they symbolise good luck and fortune – the town of Sawara was a booming business hub.

Kita, who works at Association for Promotion of International Cooperation, is an avid photographer. She was accompanying Floyd Takeuchi, a senior photographer, veteran journalist and author.

Sawara, a historic trading town, is 90 minutes north of Tokyo by express bus.

"It has a well-kept historic district, with the canals once used for trading boat freighters that took rice and sake to Tokyo," said Takeuchi. The preservation of history and character makes this beautiful hamlet a photographer's dream.

Back to the cats, Kita said. There were not many of them in the historical district, but one could see them as one walked into the town.

A black cat resting at a small shrine

"There was one cat that allowed Floyd to pat himself or herself," Kita recounted. "But the one we found early in the morning escaped from Floyd when he tried to get closer.

"So it seems like some are friendly and some are not," she said.

Sawara sounds like a place to escape our fast-paced, information superhighway, terabyte-driven life and seek solace.

ROLL THE CLOCK BACK

Experiencing Sawara is to roll the clock back on life to a slow, gentle, and laid-back pace. It is, though, unfortunate that how we lived our lives yesterday has now become today's luxury and a 'retreat'.

The town of Sawara used to be famous for a water transportation business, which dates back to the 16th century. The Onogawa River, which flows in the town, is lined with simple yet intricate wooden houses where merchants used to live and ply their trade.

A specialty shop "Suppinya" that sells Japanese products. The wooden houses were built in Meiji and Taisho Era

Homes of merchants who relied on the water transportation business that linked Sawara to Edo are preserved in their original form, along the 500-metre stretch of the Onogawa River. Most of these structures, built in the mid-18th century, became the first nationally designated Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings in Kanto in 1996.

According to the information sourced from various websites, this district’s landscape is unique in that it reflects the changing times from the late Edo period (1603-1867) to the early Showa period (1926-1989). The beauty of it all is that many of the businesses are still operating in these buildings. Family enterprises and traditions have been passed down for generations since the Edo period. Sawara is a town that has maintained its original character but continues to be inhabited. This district is highly praised as a “living townscape”. The city of Varanasi, on the banks of river Ganges, in north India, comes to mind. It is the oldest living city in the world. We will take a trip there another time.

LOGISTICS HUB

It is said that during the Edo period (1603-1867), Sawara prospered as a distribution centre, akin to a modern logistics hub, where goods from all over Japan came into what is present-day Tokyo. As the distribution business grew, Kawasaki Bank opened a branch in Sawara in 1880. Eight years later, the Sawara Branch became Kawasaki Bank’s official headquarters. Then in 1943, the building became the Sawara Branch of Mitsubishi Bank. In 1989, the building was donated to Katori City.

The Sawara Mitsubishi Building that stands today is a two-storey Western-style brick building that was built in 1914. Inside, there is a corridor on the second floor and an atrium. In 1991, it was designated as a Tangible Cultural Property by Chiba Prefecture.

Many shops and homes have preserved their traditional Hina dolls and other tools.

Sawara's specialty, Ubagi, marinated and grilled eel on rice with soup and pickles.

How can any trip be complete unless one talks about food. "Sawara is famous for unagi (eel), and there are unagi restaurants all over the place," Kita said.

Souvenirs in Sawara are delectable too. "This place is also famous for soy sauce, so it is one of the popular souvenirs for the tourists," Kita said.

Takeuchi and Kita took the proverbial gazillion photos. The best of these shots have been collated in a book – Sawara – A Photographer's Guide (https://www.blurb.com/b/11472981).

We are looking forward to the next set of travels as we travel around the land of the rising sun. Arigatou gozaimasu for the memories.

Special thanks to Moeko Kita for the background information and photographs, and Floyd Takeuchi for the continued guidance. Follow on X, formerly Twitter: @amitabhs

Turning blank walls into works of art

2023-08-27T09:58:00.001-07:00

A mural painted by Mexican artist Irving Cano

Walls – they create barriers, could be seen as divisive, may draw a line between two extremes. For some, they are a blank canvas waiting to be splashed with vivid imagination and colours. These expressions are oft wild, rebellious, and a work of a free spirit – perhaps an oxymoron to the cold, restrictive space in brick and mortar.

These expressions seek to unify the diverse and divided world. From Thailand to Turkey to Norway, closer to home in San Juan, New York, street art is transforming the mundane into the wild.

“Street art is nothing else but urban poetry that catches someone’s eye,” says Christian Guémy (C215), French street artist. “Being a street artist is impossible because the city itself is the artist. Street art is a collective thing, participative and interactive, extremely linked to web 2.0 culture.”

Irving Cano, growing up in Isthmus of Tehuantepec, Oaxaca, Mexico, gravitated to street art when he was 16. “There was a graffiti exhibition that took place in my city that made me want to be a part of street art,” Cano, who is a plastic artist, said.

Isthmus of Tehuantepec, located in southern Mexico, between the Gulf of Campeche on the Gulf of Mexico to the north, and the Gulf of Tehuantepec on the Pacific Ocean to the south, is inhabited mostly by indigenous Zapotec people.

It is this heritage and the traditions and fables associated with it that Cano seeks to highlight in his works.

“It is a culture full of a lot of vibes,” he said. “It is a culture of much learning and history among its people, its language, especially the textures of the garments worn by Zapotec women.”

Zapotec women, known as “Tehuanas”, were traders and known throughout Mexico for their colourful dresses, assertive personalities, and being relatively equal in relation to men.

Zapotec culture

Irving Cano puts finishing touches to a mural of Bob Marley he painted in Kingston

Cano, who is a veteran in his field, is known to stand out for highlighting his Zapotec culture – from pigments and textures in clothing, reliefs and forms in archaeology, among many other elements that reinforce his art, which he says is of a dual character, that focuses on the worldview and the common good.

His work has rolled back the old practice of Mexican muralism and reflects realism and hyperrealism, categorised as Neomuralism.

“It is a lot of learning, coexistence, and union between people and cultures, and through my work I try to highlight the values that have existed for generations,” Cano said.

The history of street art is as deep-rooted as the history of Mexico itself.

“Mexico is no stranger to cultural graffiti as the ancient Mayans and Aztecs covered their temple walls in beautiful imagery,” said Ambassador of Mexico to Jamaica Juan González Mijares.

“The indigenous hands of their craftsmen have painted the frescoes of the fortress churches since the 16th Century and the Muralism Movement of Diego Rivera, Orozco y Siqueiros became famous in the country since the 1920s after the Mexican Revolution,” Mijares added.

“Mexico has been embracing art on its walls ever since,” he said.

Underlying messages

A mural of woman playing a trumpet by Irving Cano

Cano, whose works have been hung on walls in the United States, Canada and the United Arab Emirates, was in Jamaica in February to add his creations to a mural at Temple Lane in downtown Kingston.

Of the three murals he painted are of a couple of and a woman playing a trumpet – each with underlying messages.

“The couple represents the coexistence and union of two nations and cultures,” Cano said. “The woman with the trumpet represents gender equality in the nations.”

His work at Temple Lane is a reinforcement of Cano’s heritage, splashed with distinct design elements, vibrancy of colours, and the expressions.

Mijares concurred. “It is not surprising that the mural on Temple Lane reflects a dialogue of colour and music traditions between our countries,” he said. “It an invitation to dance, as the central figure will show, as we hum, perhaps, the tune of a classic ‘I don’t wanna wait in vain for your love’.”

Cano said he had an incredible experience in Jamaica and said that artists here should commit to art.

“Do it with your heart and not with ulterior motives,” Cano said. “Explore more of yourselves to be able to find yourselves because you already have the talent. You only need to focus it.”

Juxtaposed alongside the couple and a woman playing a trumpet, Cano painted Bob Marley, to which someone remarked “Why is Bob holding the guitar in the wrong hand?” We can offer three explanations: it’s a laterally inverted image, maybe Cano is exhibiting Bob’s ambidexterity, or let us leave it as the artist’s creative licence.

Cano has left his style and an indomitable and enduring mark and said he lives by the words which he would like artists to emulate: “Art can change people’s perception for a common good.”

Treading on cobbled stones in San Juan

2023-08-19T07:13:00.001-07:00


Capitolio de Puerto Rico, the legislative assembly

History. The word most times reminiscent of yellowing pages of books, oft-forgotten expanses of time. In the alleys of San Juan, Puerto Rico, the hands of the clock stand still in a time and era when pace of life was a gingerly trod cobblestone street, and aromas of pungent spices mixed with the subtle breeze of the Atlantic Ocean.

San Juan, one of the oldest cities in the continental United States, is tucked away from the bustling Condado district; high-rises, stores, and shops, clubs and shiny, swanky cars transition to an elevation, where the old city appears, the tar of the road giving way to the cobblestone streets.

This old city is a mix of 400 years of urban development, which has a confluence of varied eras of Spanish influence - Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture - which encapsulates arches, drones and ornamentation on the facades of the structures.

Known as La Ciudad Amurallada (Walled City), San Juan has one of the biggest natural harbours in the Caribbean and is one of the oldest European-founded cities in the Americas.

Cobblestone streets in the old city of San Juan

Old San Juan's fortifications include La Fortaleza, three forts of San Felipe del Morro, San Cristobal and San Juan de la Cruz (El Canuelo), and a large portion of the city wall, constructed between the 16th and 19th centuries to protect the city and the Bay of San Juan.

In the vicinity of these fortifications, a row of lifelike statues of the presidents of the United States face the El Capitolio (Capitol Building of Puerto Rico), the legislative assembly building built in 1929; this imposing structure sits on the periphery of the old city.

Walking along the streets of this city, where modernity bustles with the time-encapsulated structures, the edifice of Catedral de San Juan (San Juan Cathedral) radiates serenity. The second oldest cathedral in the Western Hemisphere is a New World example of medieval architecture said to have its fair share of historical testaments.

The original church, which had wooden walls and a thatched roof, was destroyed by hurricane in 1526, rebuilt in 1540, looted in 1598, and ravaged by another hurricane in 1615. The current structure was built in 1917, with major restorations.

Capilla del Cristo (Cristo Chapel), built in the 18th century, has fables surrounding its existence, a divine intervention to prevent accidents and spill offs on the cliff that it is located on. The chapel houses Campeche paintings and altar.

STRIKING FEATURE

A church in the old city of San Juan

The striking feature of Old San Juan is the character, a neighborhood which is 465-year-old and was originally conceived as a military stronghold. The city includes more than 400 restored 16th- and 17th-century Spanish colonial buildings.

Old San Juan is diverse, both architecturally and historically, which makes it unique and distinct. The historic sites and buildings blend into the modern world, where the visitors flock and savor the quaint shopping experiences, sip their favorite brew and indulge in delicacies alfresco, under the tree shaded café's.

"Sounds of a San Juan night," said Hunter S. Thompson, American journalist and author, "drifting across the city through layers of humid air; sounds of life and movement, people getting ready and people giving up, the sound of hope and the sound of hanging on, and behind them all, the quiet, deadly ticking of a thousand hungry clocks, the lonely sound of time passing in the long Caribbean night."

Old San Juan stands as a testimony of resilience, withstanding the ravages of time, and as that country goes through its metamorphosis, perhaps a fine example of how the past can be blended into the present - functional yet timeless.

Republic Day – Celebration of power of people

2023-01-23T08:58:00.001-08:00

ANI Photo: Indian Army camel mounted division

On January 26, 1950, India declared itself a sovereign, democratic and republic state, with the adoption of the Constitution, which gave the citizens of India the power to govern themselves by choosing their own Government. It has been 73 years since, the world’s largest democracy has evolved, gone through its trials and tribulations, and managed to overcome them all.

Republic – a word that is right now, and especially in the Caribbean, generating a lot of buzz. Closer to home, after Barbados became a republic in November 2021, the push for Jamaica to remove the Queen of England as the head of the state has picked up momentum.

“Living in one of the most vibrant democracies on the planet, Jamaicans will relate to this special day of the world’s largest democracy even more,” said Rungsung Masakui, high commissioner of India to Jamaica. “It is not a mere coincidence that India and Jamaica share such a warm relationship despite the huge geographical distance. It is also the reason why Indians get assimilated in the Jamaican society so easily and feel at home here.”

We could not have said it better – vibrancy and warmth, key to coherent people to people interactions and it is by, of and for the people on whose shoulders the institution of democracy rests.

VISUAL TREAT

ANI Photo: Artistes pose at full-dress rehearsal for Republic Day Parade, at Esplanade, Kolkata

Talking of vibrancy, almost 9,000 miles away from Kingston, the Indian capital came alive on January 26 at the Republic Day parade – the riot of colors unfolded, with a show of its military might, riot of colors dispersed by the folk musicians and dancers, and soldiers in their crisp uniforms marching in clockwork precision. It is a visual treat, but also sends a strong message of the power of the people.

“Long years ago, we made a tryst with destiny, and now the time comes when we shall redeem our pledge, not wholly or in full measure, but very substantially,” said Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first prime minister, in his Tryst with Destiny speech on August 15, 1947, the day India became a free nation.

“At the stroke of the midnight hour,” Nehru said, “when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom.” The country did, and has come a long way since, transforming itself into a global powerhouse.

As Jamaica is celebrating over 60 years of independence from the British rule, possibly the true celebration of the power of the people would be transition to becoming a republic. For once Mahatma Gandhi said, “strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.”

... and where there is a will, there is way.

The art and science of Ayurveda

2022-12-04T12:13:00.002-08:00

Photo courtesy: High Commission of India in Jamaica

Let us step away from the dreaded ‘C’ word that has engulfed us for the past couple of years and focus on one’s well-being, critically how Mother Nature provides both the means and the solutions to balance one’s life. Both an art and a science, one of mankind’s oldest forms of plant-based wellness and healing methodology from India, which dates back more than 5,000 years, is Ayurveda (translated as ‘the science of life’ in Sanskrit), also referred to as ‘Mother of All Healing’.

Ayurveda finds mention in the ancient Vedic culture, and its knowledge was passed down orally from the gurus (masters or teachers) to their disciples for many thousands of years. This practice of wellness places emphasis on prevention and encourages the maintenance of health through close attention to balance in one’s life, right thinking, diet, lifestyle, and the use of herbs.

It is said that knowledge of Ayurveda enables one to understand how to create this balance of body, mind, and consciousness according to one’s own individual constitution and how to make lifestyle changes to bring about and maintain this balance.

Like many beliefs from India, where energy fields are at the focal point, Ayurveda also says that each person has a particular energy pattern – a unique combination of physical, mental, and emotional characteristics that comprise their own constitution. This constitution is determined at conception by a number of factors and remains the same throughout one’s life.

Many factors, both internal and external, act upon us to disturb this balance and are reflected as a change in one’s constitution from the balanced state. Examples of these emotional and physical stresses include one’s emotional state, diet and food choices, seasons and weather, physical trauma, and work and family relationships.

Once these factors are understood, one can take appropriate actions to nullify or minimise their effects or eliminate the causes of imbalance and re-establish one’s original constitution. Balance is the natural order; imbalance is disorder. Health is order; disease is disorder. Within the body, there is constant interaction between order and disorder. When one understands the nature and structure of disorder, one can re-establish order.

Balancing the three energies

Yoga - striking equilibrium between mind, body and soul

In Ayurveda, body, mind, and consciousness work together in maintaining balance. They are simply viewed as different facets of one’s being. Ayurveda identifies three basic types of energy, or functional principles, that are present in everyone and everything. Since there are no single words in English that convey these concepts, we use the original Sanskrit words vata, pitta, and kapha. These principles can be related to the basic biology of the body. Vata is the energy of movement, pitta is the energy of digestion or metabolism, and kapha is the energy of lubrication and structure.

All people have the qualities of vata, pitta, and kapha, but one is usually primary, one is secondary, and the third is usually least prominent. The cause of diseases, according to Ayurveda, is a lack of proper cellular function due to an excess or deficiency of vata, pitta, or kapha. Disease can also be caused by the presence of toxins. According to Ayurvedic philosophy, the entire cosmos is an interplay of the energies of the five great elements – space, air, fire, water, and earth.

Vata, pitta, and kapha are combinations and permutations of these five elements that manifest as patterns present in all creation. In the physical body, vata is the subtle energy of movement, pitta is the energy of digestion and metabolism, and kapha is the energy that forms the body’s structure. To learn how to balance the body, mind, and consciousness requires an understanding of how vata, pitta, and kapha work together. Diet and lifestyle appropriate to one’s individual constitution strengthen the body, mind, and consciousness.

A complementary system of healing

Western allopathic medicine currently tends to focus on symptomatology and disease and primarily uses drugs and surgery to rid the body of pathogens or diseased tissue. However, drugs, because of their toxicity, often weaken the body. Ayurveda does not focus on disease. Ayurveda maintains that all life must be supported by energy in balance. When there is minimal stress and the flow of energy within a person is balanced, the body’s natural defence systems will be strong and can more easily defend against disease.

It must be emphasised that Ayurveda is not a substitute for Western allopathic medicine. There are many instances when the disease process and acute conditions can best be treated with drugs or surgery. Ayurveda can be used in conjunction with Western medicine to make a person stronger and less likely to be afflicted with disease and/or to rebuild the body after it is treated with drugs or surgery.

Evaluation and treatment of imbalances

Ayurveda encompasses various techniques for assessing health. Basic techniques such as taking the pulse; observing the tongue, eyes, and physical form; and listening to the tone of the voice are employed during an assessment.

Photo by Katya

Palliative and cleansing measures are used to help eliminate an imbalance, along with managing the causes of the imbalance. This includes the implementation of lifestyle changes, starting and maintaining a suggested diet, and the use of herbs. In some cases, participating in a cleansing program, called panchakarma, is suggested to help the body rid itself of accumulated toxins to gain more benefit from the various suggested measures of treatment.

Substances

Plant- and animal-based treatments in Ayurveda may be derived from roots, leaves, fruits, bark, seeds such as cardamom and cinnamon, and milk. In addition, fats are prescribed both for consumption and for external use. Ayurveda also uses alcoholic beverages, which are said to adjust the doshas. The sedative and pain-relieving properties of opium are also used in Ayurveda.

Global recognition

The World Health Organization (WHO) recognises Ayurveda, among other complementary health systems. It is also a part of the 2013 WHO-WIPO-WTO TRIPS study on health innovation and access to medicines. The WTO mentions Ayurveda in its intellectual property strategy. Although Ayurveda originated in India, it has now become a common heritage of mankind, and millions of people around the world use its principles and techniques to lead a healthy life.

According to some sources, up to 80 per cent of people in India use some form of traditional medicine for personal wellness. The Indian government has a Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha Medicine and Homeopathy (AYUSH) for the development of Ayurveda in India.

In essence, Ayurveda touches all facets – the body, mind, and spirit and also recognises that each of us is unique, each responds differently to the many aspects of life, each possesses different strengths and weaknesses.

This ancient system of Indian medicine presents a vast wealth of information on the relationships between causes and their effects, both immediate and subtle, for unique individual that is in us.

As for coronavirus, it shall pass, but it will present us with a new ‘normal’, whatever that may be – the key, as this ancient system of wellness promotes – will be to strike the equilibrium between the mind, body and spirit. Right now, we need all the positive affirmations, however diverse we may be as humans, let us spread positive energies and help to heal each other.

Background information courtesy of the High Commission of India in Jamaica.

Marigold – a mystical journey from Mexico to India

2022-11-24T21:15:00.000-08:00

People walk through a field of marigold ahead of the Onam festival, at Karumallur, Kochi, in Ernakulam. (ANI Photo)

What do Día de los Muertos and a grand Indian wedding have in common? A bizzare question one may say, but the significance of the colour yellow and marigold flowers connect Mexico to India.

There is no Hindu ritual that is complete without marigold. The bright-orange flowers are made into garlands and hung at the entrance of homes. The significance is manifold. First, the colour yellow symbolises sanctity, and saffron represents courage and sacrifice, which is also the top band of the Indian national flag.

Likewise, in Mexico, offering marigold is a celebration of the lives of those who have passed on. The vibrant colours remind us of the never-say-die spirit, vibrancy, and looking beyond the sadness of death. Marigolds are used to decorate altars and are placed with personal effects, the deceased’s favourite food and drinks, making a connection with the souls who have transitioned from their mortal state.

Día de los Muertos altar decorations usually include hand-cut paper marigolds or fresh marigolds. It is believed that the spirits of the dead visit the living during the celebration. Marigolds guide the spirits to their altars using their vibrant colours and pungent scent.

In India, garlands or ‘torana’ (gateway in Sanskrit). Apart from ushering vibrant energies into the home, it is believed that the smell of marigolds keeps insects away.

HISTORY

An altar decked with cempasuchil or Mexican marigold flowers.- Photo: Arturo Peña Romano

According to remezcla.com, the earliest written mention of cempasúchil (the flower of 400 lives/also flower with 20 petals) dates back to the 16th century in a text known as the Florentine Codex. Written by the Spanish Franciscan friar Bernardino de Sahagún, the manuscript is a 2,400-page document of the culture and customs of the Aztec people. In it, de Sahagún describes the Aztecs’ sophisticated medicinal use of various flowers and plants, noting the important role marigolds played in both medicines and celebrations.

It is believed that Día de los Muertos stems from an Aztec festival dedicated to the goddess Mictecacihuatl, whose role was to guard the bones of the dead.

The Aztecs considered marigolds a sacred flower so bred them to create bigger and more attractive blooms. Aztecs used the sacred flower for decorative and medicinal purposes. The flowers are edible and thought by the Aztecs to cure hiccups and even heal those struck by lightning.

While the history of the marigold post-Aztecs is a bit murky, all Targetes species can be traced back to the New World. Spanish explorers took seeds from the Aztecs. These seeds survived the long trips across the Atlantic – a testament to how hearty these flowers are – and were cultivated in Spain, France, and then northern Africa. (This is why we have French marigolds and African marigolds. What is even more confusing is that Mexican marigolds are often referred to as African marigolds even though they originated in Mexico.)

REMOVER OF OBSTACLES

A woman farmer plucks marigold flowers from a field ahead of the Saraswati Puja, at Khirai, in Paschim Medinipur in the eastern Indian state of West Bengal. (ANI Photo)

The common name used for it in many parts of India is ‘Genda’, which could also mean a ball, which in Hindi is called gend. This vibrant and fragrant import from the Americas has been revered, accepted, and claimed as the curries in India. Apart from being made into garlands to adorn entrances, marigolds are offered at the feet of the deities in temples. The flower has spiritual symbolism, both in Christianity and Hinduism.

The flower is offered to Mother Mary on the Feast of the Annunciation (observed on March 25). It is said that this is the day when the angel Gabriel came to Mother Mary to tell her of Jesus Christ’s coming. On this day, in some traditions, marigold seeds are sown in pots as a symbol for auspiciousness and patience to await the divine.

In Hinduism, marigold symbolises the vibrancy and positivity of life and auspiciousness. The saffron/orange-coloured flower is offered to God as a symbol of surrender of the mortal human being to the supreme power. Also, the flower, which is the confluence of many manifestations of life, is a hardy and low-maintenance flower, which also symbolises the belief in oneself to rise above challenges, and importantly, to trust in God to help overcome life’s obstacles. The resilience of the marigold also signifies the victory of good over evil.

In both Mexican and Indian cultures, the marigold celebrates and reminds us of the fragility of life. The symbolism of the marigold may be resonated in the Pavamana Mantra (pavamana – being purified; mantra – prayer), from the ancient Hindu scripture Upanishad:

असतो मा सद्गमय ।
तमसो मा ज्योतिर्गमय ।
मृत्योर्माऽमृतं गमय ॥

“Lead me from the unreal to the real, lead me from darkness to light, lead me from death to immortality.”

Let us celebrate life as the marigold teaches us – in this mortal state and beyond.

Konark – an ode to the Sun God

2022-11-16T04:39:00.004-08:00

Konark Sun Temple panoramic view | Alokprasad84

Sun – it is life, it is light, and the basis of existence of life on the planet. It is what makes the Earth and the constellations go around it.

Sun has been revered and worshipped across civilizations, in many manifestations, from Aztec, Inca, Maya, Egyptian, to Buddhist, Arabian and Indian mythology. Praying to the Sun God, in its glory, is the beginning of a new day.

The Sun Temple at Konark in the eastern Indian state Odisha is an architectural marvel. It is one of the awe-inspiring examples of temple architecture - as is visible from its grand conception, scale, and proportion, and in the consummate narrative power of its sculptural adornment.

Konark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was built in 1250 CE by a famous king of the dynasty that ruled the region for more than 700 years. Although many portions are now in ruins, the site continues to draw tourists from all over the world.

THE BELIEF

Original temple and the surviving structure (yellow) | Gérald Anfossi

The reason for the building is speculated to be the expression of gratitude to the Sun god by the king for a wish fulfilment or to commemorate a conquest. The Sun Temple is directly associated with the idea and belief of the personification of the Sun God, which is mentioned at many places in India’s ancient and classical texts.

The Sun is personified as a divine being with its own history, ancestry, and family, which plays a prominent role in the myths and legends of creation. The temple’s aesthetic and visually staggering sculptural narratives also provide a priceless peek into the economic, political, social, and religious life of the people during the medieval period in India.

ARCHITECTURE

A stone wheel engraved in the walls of the temple. | Photo: Subhrajyoti07

The word ‘Konark’ is a combination of two Sanskrit words kona (corner or angle) and arka (the sun). It means that the main deity was the Sun God, and the temple was built in an angular format. The temple follows the style of architecture prevalent during the period (Nagara style) characterised by a square ground plan, a sanctuary, and an assembly hall with a huge capped curvilinear tower.

As the stones used in constructing the temple were not available near the site, they were brought from long distances and lifted by means of pulleys, wooden wheels or rollers and then set into place. The fitting and finishing have been done so smoothly that the joints are not visible.

The entire temple was built in stone, representing a chariot of the Sun God, with 12 pairs of wheels, drawn by seven galloping horses, evoking its movement across the heavens. It is decorated with refined depictions of contemporary life and activities. The 12 pairs of wheels have been carved against the sides of the chariot and represent the 12 months of the year. These complete the illusionary structure of the temple-chariot. The plinth of the temple is also decorated with reliefs of lions, musicians, and dancers.

THEME

Front view of Konark Sun Temple | Wikimedia Commons

The sculptors have covered every bit of space available with a variety of themes, with figures indulging in song and dance, mythical beings, birds and animals, besides floral and geometrical motifs. The designs were carved after the stones had been set in place.

Many aspects of royal life, including sculptures depicting royal activities, hunts, processions, and military scenes have also been carved out. Some panels depict the king in various roles: as a scholar reviewing literary works being presented to him by poets, as enjoying himself on a swing in his palace, as a great archer, fondly regarding his reflection in a mirror, and as a deeply religious devotee.

RESTORATION

During the medieval period, the Konark Sun Temple served as a landmark for sailors sailing the Bay of Bengal, and the Europeans traversing this sea referred to it as the ‘Black Pagoda’. The temple was believed to have been damaged in an earthquake or lightning, while others attribute it to attacks by foreign invaders. It fell into disuse before a British Indian historian, James Fergusson, rekindled interest by surveying the site in 1837. The temple was satisfactorily restored by the 1900s when it again started eliciting interest across India and the world.

It is said that at Konark, “the joy of a princely life on earth and expression of the luxury and grandeur prevailing in the royal environment are writ large everywhere”. The Konark temple, even in its ruined state, stands majestically and bears witness to the architectural and artistic skills of India. Tourists, as well as students of art, architecture, history, and archaeology find Konark a place offering an unparalleled knowledge experience. Konark also serves as a location for cultural festivals and classical Indian dance performances.

For many centuries, the Sun Temple continues to play its role in preserving and furthering India’s immense cultural heritage and civilization. The Sun symbolizes myriad manifestations in Hinduism – wisdom, truth, knowledge, intelligence, continuity, among others. Konark stands as an ode to that giver of life.

India at 75 – evolution of the national flag

2022-11-01T10:31:00.000-07:00

An art student gives final touches to a wall painting to celebrate India’s Independence Day, in Prayagraj (Allahabad), a city in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. | ANI Photo

Every country has stories to tell, paths of history that it has walked on, and foundations upon
which its future is built. A country’s flag, is a symbol of its freedom and identity, and its inherent value systems – the Indian tricolour encapsulates them all.

Let’s unfurl the story of the Indian national flag as the largest democracy in the world celebrates the 75th anniversary of its Independence on August 15. The national flag of India was adopted at the meeting of the Constituent Assembly, held on July 22, 1947, just before the country’s Independence from British rule. The ‘tricolour’, first the national flag of the Dominion of India between August 15, 1947 and January 26, 1950; that of the Republic of India thereafter.

The Indian flag went through metamorphoses over the centuries. It was after the rebellion (also known as the first war of Independence) in 1857 the first flag was raised by the British. The design was similar to the flags of their other colonies. Red in colour, it included the Union Jack in the upper-left quadrant and a Star of India capped by the royal crown in the middle of the right half.

One of the earliest variant of the Indian flag: The Vande Mataram flag, with eight white lotuses on the upper green band representing the eight provinces, a sun and a crescent on the bottom red band, and Vande Mataram (hail thee o mother) in the middle band. | Wikimedia Commons

One of the earliest variants was the Vande Mataram (hail thee o mother) flag, which was part of the nationalist Swadeshi movement, comprising Indian religious symbols represented in Western heraldic fashion.

The tricolour flag included eight white lotuses on the upper green band representing the eight provinces, a sun and a crescent on the bottom red band, and the Vande Mataram slogan in Hindi on the central yellow band. The flag was launched in Calcutta. At each point of India’s history, the design of the flag was representative of that era.

THE TRICOLOUR

Girdhar Vyas, claiming have the longest moustaches in the world, poses with the National flags as part of the 75th Independence Day celebrations, in the western Indian city of Bikaner. | ANI Photo

The national flag of India is a horizontal tricolour of deep saffron at the top, white in the middle, and dark green at the bottom in equal proportion. The ratio of width of the flag to its length is two to three. In the centre of the white band is a navy blue wheel, which represents the chakra.

Its design is that of the wheel, with 24 spokes, which appears on the abacus of the Sarnath Lion Capital of Ashoka – which is the national symbol of India.

The saffron colour represents strength and courage of the country, the white middle personifies peace and truth, with the Dharma Chakra (wheel of law), and the at the bottom, green signifies fertility, growth, and auspiciousness of the land.

An autorickshaw (tuk tuk) passes the illuminated Vidhan Bhavan (Assembly House) in the northern India city of Lucknow, capital of Uttar Pradesh. | ANI Photo

The Dharma Chakra, which is symbolic predominantly in Buddhism, was made by the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka in third century BC. The chakra depicts that there is life in movement and death in stagnation. The Indian tricolour personifies the value systems that have evolved and continue to inspire generations – truth, righteousness, humility, peace, and universal brotherhood. India earned freedom on the sacrifices of millions of people, some of them who even laid down their lives in the hope to see their country free from the British rule. The flag, in whatever variant, was a symbol of courage for these freedom fighters, most who did not live to breathe in free India. Their sacrifices did not go in vain – even with the trials and tribulations India, as a young independent nation, has thrived.

Mahatma Gandhi once said: “My religion is based on truth and non-violence. Truth is my God. Non-violence is the means of realising Him.” Let peace and happiness be our religion, too.

Happy 75th, India!

Postcard from Japan: Manhole covers - designs of urban art

2022-10-12T04:04:00.006-07:00

A manhole cover with sea, sun and a ship
in Oami-Shirasato-city, Chiba prefecture, Japan.

There are a couple of things that strike a chord with a visitor to the Land of the Rising Sun such as cleanliness, politeness, patience, meticulousness, precision and, there is creativity in every nook and corner of the country – from food presentations, to architecture to garbage receptacles and even manhole covers. No, the latter two examples are not raising any stink. They are reminders the beauty is indeed in the eyes of the beholder.

Japanese love to walk. In Tokyo, sidewalks of the city that is home to 13 million, has a sea of humanity striding to and fro dressed in their impeccable, stylish, traditional and contemporary couture. One cannot help but set one’s sights to the ground and notice tastefully designed metallic circles making a ‘fashion statement’.

On a normal day, these round covers would be best avoided, oft scurried past, with face covered – but then this is Japan, and there are certain things that one doesn’t come across every day.

A manhole cover in Kodaira City, Tokyo.

This phenomenon of dotted throughout the country – manhole covers, have over the years, become a tourist attraction in its own right. Don’t be surprised if people are crouching to get the best shot for their memories.

These covers, according to reports, were part of a public-relations campaign in the 1950s with simple geometric patterns. in 1985, Yasutake Kameda, who was civil servant, took these designs to the next level and conceived the artsy designs. These covers have since evolved into integral threads of Japan’s cultural fabric.

The process to make these manhole covers is equally intricate. An aluminium mould is made, which has designs that are selected an approved by the local municipalities. The designs are imprinted on the cover and other covers, which have more intricate designs have coloured resins filled, the process is similar to enamel coating on jewellery.

BOUTIQUE PRICE TAG

Given the complexity of the design and manufacturing process, these covers come with a ‘boutique’ price tag. Typically, a manhole cover, which weighs more than 80 pounds, excluding the frame, costs a little under US$600. In a case where the work involves the addition of resins and colours, which is a labour-intensive process done by hand, the price of the covers can go up to US$900 or more.

A manhole cover in Kodaira City, Tokyo.

It is estimated that 95 per cent of Japan’s 1,718 municipalities, across 47 prefectures, boast of their own uniquely designed covers. That is a lot of walking and a lot of covers.

Being a phenomenon, these covers have a fan base and a following – from the Japan Ground Manhole Association, and the ‘fan club’ the Japanese Society of Manhole Covers, which showcases thousands of photographs submitted from across Japan.

It should not be thought that these are merely ornate designs. These manhole covers conform to all standards of safety and usage.

“I should explain that there is more to manhole-cover design than meets the eye,” says Alice Gordenker, who wrote “So, What the Heck is That?” column in the Japan Times. “The most important function of the raised design on manhole covers is not to look good, but to provide traction for the traffic moving over it.

Manhole covers have become a cultural phenomenon
- here one in Yotsuya, Tokyo.

“This,” Gordenker continues, “is particularly important in wet weather when manhole covers can be treacherously slippery, especially for two-wheeled conveyances such as motorcycles, scooters, and bicycles. A good design, in terms of preventing slippage, will have multidirectional lines for better grip.”

She says that the designs should also be recognisable no matter which direction they are viewed from, and have lasting appeal, since manhole covers last for decades at least, and often, much longer.

“All in all, there are about 120 million covers in Japan, or one for every woman, child, and man,” Gordenker says.

There is no doubt that when it comes to marrying the left brain with the right, Japan has sort of mastered that art (and science). Art exists in many manifestations, and for a visitor in Japan, ‘looking down’ could spring some very pleasant surprises – and who knows? One might become a part of the manhole fan club.

- Heartfelt gratitude to Floyd Takeuchi for facilitation and coordination of this feature and Moeko Kita, Association for Promotion of International Cooperation (APIC), for the photographs

India Chronicles: Humayun’s Tomb - poetry etched in red stone

2022-10-03T06:05:00.002-07:00

Humayun's Tomb in New Delhi

Walks down the lanes of history, most of the time, evoke some inexplicable feelings – awe and being a time warp. As much as the word ‘history’ tends to be associated with long texts in books and hardly a subject that kindles exuberance, a visit to any of the these landmarks kindles some of the emotions we spoke about.

It was an era in the time of the Indian subcontinent’s history when there was a convergence of Persian influences in architecture. This imposing monument is tucked behind a façade of thick red stone walls. The Humayun’s Tomb, a magnificent structure in red stone, the pathway to which is lined with trees, in the midst of sprawling manicured lawns, the structure that unfolds before the eyes is opulent. The visitors can’t help but see the semblance to India’s most recognizable and iconic landmarks – the Taj Mahal.

What many may not know is that Humayun’s Tomb, built in 1570, is the Indian subcontinent’s first garden-tomb and major architectural influence on the Taj Mahal.

A jewel in the crown of India’s capital city of New Delhi, Humayun’s Tomb is an opulent, imposing, and grandiose mausoleum built in the memory Humayun, the second emperor of the Mughal Empire. He ruled over an empire that spanned from modern day Afghanistan, Pakistan, and parts of northern India from 1531-1540 and again from 1555-1556. It is said that at the time of his death, the Mughal Empire spanned almost one million square kilometres.

Humayun’s Tomb offers visitors serenity, tranquillity, and as one walks in, the scramble, hustle and bustle, and chaos of this metropolis packed with 14 million people. You walk into a time warp, which draws you in.

TRANQUILITY

One of the several buildings in the compound of Humayun's Tomb

Unlike Taj, hordes of tourists seldom overrun the place, which gives it the added dose of tranquility. One can soak in the richness and solitude and get kissed by the whiff of crisp cool breezes – a far cry from the maddening crowds and the excitement outside the periphery of its walls.

The sprawling complex of the Humayun’s Tomb houses other 16th-century Mughal garden-tombs and a complex where the craftsmen employed for building Humayun’s Tomb lived. Humayun’s garden-tomb is also called the ‘dormitory of the Mughals’ because the cells are buried over 150 Mughal family members.

The gardens are representative of Quranic paradise – Char Bagh (a four-quadrant garden with the four rivers) – the pools joined by channels. These channels are both aesthetic and help to keep the place cool in the hot Delhi summers when the temperatures can shoot up to 46 degrees Celsius.

The entrance to the tomb is from lofty gateways on the south and from the west, with pavilions located in the centre of the eastern and northern walls. The main building – Humayun’s mausoleum - rises high, sitting on a wide, terraced platform with two deep vaulted cells on all four sides.

The irregular octagon plan with four long sides and chamfered edges are surmounted by a double dome made from marble flanked by pillared domes (chhatris or umbrellas) and the domes of the central chhatris are adorned with glazed ceramic tiles.

The middle of each side is deeply recessed by large arched vaults with a series of smaller ones set into the façade.

ENSEMBLE OF ISLAMIC BUILDINGS

Entrance to Humayun's Tomb

The interior house, the final resting spots for the emperor and his wife, are under a large octagonal chamber with vaulted roof compartments that are interconnected by galleries and corridors.

The structure is clad in red sandstone with white and black inlaid marble borders. . The tombs in the complex are the densest ensemble of medieval Islamic buildings in India.

In the vicinity is the shrine of 14th-century Sufi Saint, Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya, where the air and the atmosphere are filled with a heady blend of mysticism and spiritual consciousness. A visit to this saint’s shrine is a pilgrimage for many. It is considered auspicious to be buried near a saint’s grave, and Humayun has the honour of being one of those lucky ones.

According to historians, Humayun’s garden-tomb is built on a monumental scale, grandeur of design, and garden setting with no precedence in the Islamic world for a mausoleum.

Humayun’s Tomb, in essence, is the symbol and, perhaps, the turning point of Indian architecture style, a confluence of Islamic, Persian, Turkic and Indian, into the subcontinent’s style of building. This outstanding Islamic garden-tomb personifies the Mughal Dynasty, under whose rule most of the subcontinent was unified.

Mahatma Gandhi: Apostle of peace and his messages in ink

2022-10-02T04:42:00.002-07:00

Gandhi spinning yarn on the charkha (wheel) - Wikimedia Commons

“My life is my message,” once said Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi – Mahatma Gandhi as he is known the world over. India's national leader, reformer was a great communicator. He connected with the masses, mobilised a whole country against the mighty British Empire and spearheaded India's quest for freedom.

He recognised the power of effective communication to garner popular support.

“Gandhi was successful because he had a latent skill in communication that surfaced in South Africa, where he had gone initially to set up practice as a lawyer,” said Prathit Misra, second secretary, High Commission of India in Jamaica. “What began in South Africa gave him the impetus to spread his message to the masses and rally millions of Indians.”

Gandhi was a prolific writer and believed in the power of pen over the sword – promoting the principles of non-violence. To the world, the images of Gandhi – a frail-framed, modestly clad gentleman, walking with a stick – are the most visible. One may not find many of him penning a letter or editing a paper. In his serene moments, his thoughts flowed from the pen on to paper.

“Mahatma Gandhi believed that it was important to inform and educate the masses, and there was no better way than newspapers,” Misra said.

From South Africa to India, Gandhi's journalistic voyage birthed several publications. We chronicle the journalistic journey of Mahatma Gandhi in his birth month (he was born October 2, 1869).

Indian Opinion

Gandhi started Indian Opinion in South Africa, which was published between 1904 to 1915. This paper became a critical tool to fight racial discrimination and gain civil rights for the Indian community in the country.

The initial aim was the education of Europeans in South Africa about issues facing the Indian community. Published in Indian languages – Gujarati, Hindi, and Tamil – and English, Indian Opinion highlighted the poor conditions faced by indentured labourers, challenged laws of the state, and published news about Indians in the colonies before the public in India. This was to be a stepping stone for Gandhi when he returned to India and immersed himself in the country's freedom struggle. He once said: “Satyagraha (hold firmly to truth – a name that Gandhi gave to the non-violent movement) would have been impossible without Indian Opinion.”

In India, he would publish Young India, Harijan (children of God), and Navjivan (new life).

Young India and Navjivan

Young India was an English weekly journal published from 1919 to 1931. Through this publication, Gandhi popularised his thoughts and encouraged people to embrace non-violence in their fight against the British rule. Navjivan, which was published in his native language ,Gujarati, was established with the same guiding principles.

Harijan

In 1933, Gandhi established a weekly newspaper, Harijan, in English. Gandhi gave this name Harijan to the untouchables in India's social hierarchy. Harijan was in publication till 1948, the year Gandhi was assassinated. He published Harijan Bandu in Gujarati and Harijan Sevak in Hindi. These publications focused on social and economic issues facing the masses.

Gandhi also authored several books:

The Story of My Experiments With Truth (Autobiography)

The Story of My Experiments With Truth chronicles Gandhi's life from early childhood to 1921. From birth and parentage, Gandhi reminiscences about his childhood, child marriage, relations with his wife and parents, experiences at the school. Gandhi details his stay in London as a student, his effort to be like the English gentleman, experiments in dietetics. The story moves to South Africa, where he faced colour prejudice, his quest for dharma, social work in Africa, his return to India, his slow and steady work for political awakening and social activities.

In the preface, Mahatma Gandhi writes: “It is not my purpose to attempt a real autobiography. I simply want to tell the story of my experiments with truth, and as my life consists of nothing but experiments, it is true that the story will take the shape of an autobiography. But I shall not mind if every page of it speaks only of my experiments.”

Gandhi's experiences in South Africa had a profound and life long impact on him. He faced a sting of humiliation and the incident at Maritzburg. When Gandhi, as a matter of principle, refused to leave the first class compartment, he was thrown off the train. Gandhi also continued to seek moral guidance in the Bhagavad-Gita (a Hindu holy scripture), which inspired him to view his work not as self-denial at all, but as a higher form of self-fulfillment.

The development of the Gandhian methods of non-cooperation and civil disobedience in South Africa and their implementation during the non-cooperation movement in India are also mentioned.

Hind Swaraj

Mahatma Gandhi - Wikimedia Commons

Gandhi wrote Hind Swaraj or Indian Home Rule 1909 in Gujarati language on his way back from London to South Africa. In it he expresses his views on Swaraj, modern civilization, industrialization, etc. The book was banned in 1910 by the British government in India for its apparently 'seditious' line. Being his first book, it is also the most radical.

In the book, Mahatma Gandhi outlines four themes. First, he argues that it is not enough for Indians to adopt a British-style society, but transform the society according to Indian values.

Gandhi also argues that Indian independence is only possible through passive resistance. He says, “The force of love and pity is infinitely greater than the force of arms.” Mahatma Gandhi suggests adopting Swadeshi (self-reliance) by Indians, meaning that Indians use only Indian products, thus hitting at the economic strength of the British. Gandhi presented a cogent critique of the Western civilisation.

Gandhi was a prolific writer who connected with the masses – his writing was devoid of any flamboyance – and like the man himself, his communication was simple, to the point, and relatable.

“He never aimed at a style or used flowery words merely to please the ear,” said Misra. “He had a forceful style of his own which mirrored his hopes and faith, his sorrows and disappointments.”

Gandhi's messages live on.

India Chronicles: Ellora Caves – spirituality carved on the hills

2022-09-26T07:16:00.000-07:00

The Indra Sabha, a part of the Jain caves at Ellora - Wikimedia Commons

There is something about historical perspectives – they seldom cease to awe or intrigue us. As we talk of perspectives, the monuments across the world, from the pyramids in Egypt, the Great Wall of China, ancient cities of Rome and Athens, the mystique of Petra, are awe inspiring all.

And then there is India, enriched and embedded in a civilization that is more than 4,000 years old, the length and breadth of the country is embedded with jewels of architecture, each with its unique characteristics and each having a story to relate.

Ellora – home to a set of monasteries and temples, extending over more than two kilometres, is a far cry from the urban landscape of the city that never sleeps, India’s financial capital, Mumbai. It is encased in serenity and tells stories of three religions: Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism.

Ellora Caves were carved out of massive rocks and mountain faces between 600 and 1100 AD. The site boasts some of the biggest manmade cave structures in the world. These were chiselled out of rugged and formidable rockfaces and are known for their remarkable reliefs, sculpture, and architecture. The Ellora Caves were proclaimed a Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1983.

CREATIVE ENERGIES

Statues carved on the walls of the caves in Ellora - Wikimedia Commons

“The caves of Ellora are a convergence of ideas and shared creative energies that gave form to this stupendous work of art and technological excellence,” said Prathit Misra, second secretary at the High Commission of India in Jamaica.

Ellora has a total of five Jain, 12 Buddhist, and 17 Hindu caves – each with their elaborate and distinct carvings and statutes. “These sculptures are of deities, and there are carvings portraying the stories and mythology of these religions,” Misra said.

Ellora was in the South Asian trade route, and it was a resting place for the traders and the travelling monks. An architectural marvel, the caves in Ellora give insight into the lives of the people in medieval India. The richness and diversity of the art in these caves is evident to the visitor as the distinct differences in the style and stories become evident.

“The carvings in the Ellora Caves include the socio-cultural set-up, material and non-material culture, economy and politics, as well as a daily lifestyle of that era,” Misra said. The stories that are carved in the rockfaces highlight the spirit of receptiveness in medieval India. This spirit is a prime example of the co-existence of three religious beliefs in harmony. The caves also received patronage from many dynasties that ruled this part of India. Some of the rulers were not followers of any of the three religions, but they honoured and respected the presence of a higher being and kept the sanctity of the caves.

The Kailasa is the largest of the rock-cut Hindu temples. The temple is a megalith carved from a rock cliff face and is often termed “the climax of the rock-cut phase of Indian architecture” because of its extraordinary size, architecture, and sculptural treatment.

BOLD SCULPTURAL COMPOSITIONS

The façade of Kailasa Temple at Ellora Caves. - Udaykumar PR - Wikimedia Commons

It is estimated that around three million cubic feet of stone weighing more than 200,000 tonnes was moved to excavate the Kailasa temple. The temple is also decorated with some of the boldest and finest sculptural compositions in India. The ceilings are adorned with paintings, which are from a different era, but are well preserved to date.

Vishwakarma Cave is one of the most popular of the Buddhist caves. It is so known as the carpenter’s cave, owing to the fact that the ceiling has been carved to look like wooden beams. Inside the cave is an imposing, over 15 feet high statue of the founder of Buddhism, Gautam Buddha, in a preaching pose (seated with his feet down). This cave is believed to be the dedicated prayer house among all the caves.

The Jain caves, on the other hand, unlike the opulence of the other caves, are minimalistic. Among the most popular is Indra Sabha (gathering of Indra), which has two-storeys. The cave is ornate and has a monolithic shrine in its court.

“The Ellora Caves preserve an artistic legacy that belongs not only to India, but to the entire world,” Misra said. “The caves have inspired many generations of artists and creations and will continue to enrich the lives of many more to come.”

The Ellora Caves, in essence, are a reflection of the diversity of India and her evolution over the centuries. These manifestations make the country an abode for those seeking peace and exploring their spirituality, and as Buddha said, peace comes from within. Do not seek it without.

- Background information courtesy High Commission of India in Jamaica.

India Chronicles: Nalanda – the universe of knowledge

2022-09-24T22:08:00.003-07:00

Odantapuribs - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0: Temple No.- 3 at Archaeological Site of Nalanda Mahavihara

This is perhaps one of the oldest hubs of learning and knowledge known to mankind – with the distinction of being “one of the first great universities in recorded history” and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Nalanda University, an hour’s drive from Patna, the capital of Bihar, according to historical accounts, was a centre of learning where scholars from far and wide came to enhance their knowledge. The long and illustrious life of the university lasted for 800 years – from the fifth to the 12th century CE. It is said that in the seventh century CE, the university accommodated more than 10,000 students and had 2,000 teachers.

The university was considered an architectural marvel and had eight separate compounds with many classrooms. Built from red bricks, the university compound also had numerous lakes and parks. In the seventh century CE, Chinese monk Xuanzang gave a first-hand account of his experience at the university: “An azure pool winds around the monasteries, adorned with the full-blown cups of the blue lotus; the dazzling red flowers of the lovely kanaka hang here and there, and outside, groves of mango trees offer the inhabitants their dense and protective shade.”

The university campus was in harmony with man and nature and provided a congenial environment for learning. This may be the reason that a visit to Nalanda, for many, is akin to a pilgrimage.

“The legacy of the ancient Nalanda University does not belong to any one country or people,” said Prathit Misra, second secretary, High Commission of India to Jamaica. “Its strength lay in being able to integrate the ideas and philosophies from different regions of the world and give them equal respect and consideration.”

SUITE OF COURSES

Oo91 - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0

Nalanda University offered a suite of courses – from science, astronomy, medicine to metaphysics, philosophy, and the scriptures of Buddhism and Hinduism.

Also in the curriculum was the study of foreign philosophy. The university’s popularity spread beyond the shores of India. Students and scholars from Korea, Japan, China, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Persia, Greece, and Turkey travelled to Nalanda to acquire an education.

“The mission of this university was to spread the light of knowledge and learning to the farthest corners of the world and also to remain open and receptive to the new teachings that other institutions had to offer,” Misra said.

The university campus was ravaged, set on fire, and razed to the ground in 1193 by Turkic (referred to collection of ethnic groups of Central, East, North and West Asia as well as parts of Europe and North Africa) invaders.

With the destruction of Nalanda, hundreds of thousands of volumes in its three famous nine-storey libraries, where meticulous copies of texts were produced, were also lost. The fires are said to have burnt for three months.

This preceded the decline in the popularity of the university as the geopolitical situation in India changed, with Buddhism ideologies waning. Nalanda was eventually abandoned and lost in time until the 19th century, when the site was surveyed, and excavations were conducted by the Archaeological Survey of India.

Systematic excavations, begun only in 1915, unearthed a trove of sculptures, coins, seals, and inscriptions.

Recent archaeological discoveries reveal that Nalanda dates back to 1200 BCE, although the university was established later.

LINKS WITH JAMAICA

Hideyuki KAMON: Excavated ruins of the monasteries of Nalanda.

Nalanda may not be a name that would have been popularly known in this part of the world, and certainly, in the grand scheme of things, would not come to mind when mentioning India. But Jamaica and the wider Caribbean have deep-rooted links with that part of India.

It is from the eastern Indian state of Bihar and adjoining regions that most of the Indian indentured labourers were brought to the Caribbean. This year also marks the 175th anniversary of the arrival of Indians to Jamaica. More on that for another day.

“Being related to eastern India historically,” said Misra, “Jamaicans are also the proud carriers of the legacy of the great Nalanda University in the spirit of ‘Out of Many, One People’.”

Centuries later, the messages that resonated from Nalanda are still relevant. The cosmopolitan spirit and openness of this university is needed today to advance the cause of a barrier-free flow of knowledge and learning, democracy, and global cooperation.

The splendour of Nalanda University permeates from the remnants of the campus, which stood in its glory and grandeur. A walk down the cobbled brick paved paths of this once-grandiose centre of knowledge enlightens and uplifts the spirit. Still resonating from the intricately carved remains of the structures are the chants of the students and the flow of pious energies – touching all the senses – calming the mind, body, and soul.

For somewhere, even in far distant memories, and buried in the ruins, Nalanda exists.

Postcard from Japan: Tokyo Sky Tree - confluence of harmony with technology

2022-09-19T06:49:00.002-07:00

Photo Courtesy JTB Media Creation: A panoramic view of the metropolis of Tokyo with the Tokyo Sky Tree standing tall.

TOKYO, Japan:

Tokyo Sky Tree literally kisses the stratosphere, rising 634 metres above the ground, and the view of the vast expanse of one of the world's most vibrant cities from Tembo Galleria, the observation deck that culminates at 451.2 metres, is awe-inspiring.

This towering marvel of engineering is the transmission hub for major television and radio channels in Tokyo, and, of course, a tourist hotspot.

"The need to construct this tower arose to facilitate smooth and uninterrupted radio transmission as a lot of buildings in Tokyo were 200 metres high," informed Hiroyuki Ami from Secretariat of Public Relations, Tobu Tower Skytree Co Ltd.

Sky Tree, rising above the expanse of a city inhabited by more than 13 million people, has been recognised by the Guinness World Records Company as the tallest tower in the world.

Tokyo Sky Tree rises tall

The pristine white steel structure incorporates elements of traditional Japanese minimalism in design. The decision to paint the tower in white is a confluence of harmony with its surroundings. "The creation of city scenery transcending time," said the official communique of Sky Tree. "A fusion of traditional Japanese beauty and neo-futuristic design."

INDIGO LEGACY

The colour of Sky Tree is derived from 'aijiro', the lightest shade of Japanese traditional indigo blue, which replicates the technique of indigo dyers, which represent the legacy of Japanese traditional craftsmanship as conserved in the downtown area housing the tower.

The tower is 634m high, and there is a reason behind this height.

"The height was 610m in the original project," said Ami. "After research on high-rise buildings that are being built around the world, the height was finally decided on 634m.

The sound of the number '634' when read in old Japanese numbers is 'mu-sa-shi', which reminds Japanese people of Musashi Province that used to cover Tokyo, Saitama and part of Kanagawa Prefecture.

From the Observation Decks, the landscape of the old Musashi Province spreads out.

Visitors are awe struck looking at Tokyo metropolis from the observation tower

Tokyo Sky Tree, supported by myriad steel tubes in its core - an estimated 37,000 steel girders give it strength, a foundation of reinforced concrete embedded 35 to 50 metres into the ground and 96 vibration dampers to absorb the earthquake shocks and reduce the swaying.

Four elevators, zipping at the speed of 600 metres per minute, represent four seasons, transport visitors to the Tembo deck where they get a panoramic view of Tokyo city and its environs. On a clear day, one can see Mount Fuji.

VISITORS AWED

Sorakara Point

On the 450th floor, on the Tembo Deck, Sorakara Point at 451.2 meres is the highest elevation of the observation deck. Visitors stand transfixed, awed and struck by the sheer magnitude of elevation, gazing, photographing, and panning the Lego-like city around them in the glitzy observation decks.

The smooth running of this gigantic structure is in the hands of Tomoyuki Hidaka and his team of 12.

Two levels below ground level, they work round the clock, harnessing geothermal energy to keep residents, businesses and visitors to Tokyo Sky Tree Town cool and comfortable.

"We work day and night to monitor the process of using geothermal energy to produce hot or cold water, which is stored in 7,000-ton capacity storage tanks," said Hidaka, manager of Energy Centre of Tobu Energy Management Co Ltd.

This technology, Hidaka explained, is helping to reduce carbon dioxide emissions as the main source of powering the air-conditioning systems is water, which he said, is also used to water the plants in the mini city surrounding the Sky Tree, and can be used for firefighting and its 230,000 residents if natural disaster strikes.

Tokyo Sky Tree, a marvel of engineering and craft - rising to touch the skies, yet grounded in earth - a confluence of the endearing human spirit, spiritual realism and humility of character.

- The visit to Japan was part of 'Pacific Islands and Caribbean Journalists' Program' organized by the Tokyo based Association for Promotion of International Cooperation (APIC) with support from Foreign Press Centre, Japan.

Godaido – encased in serene energies

2022-08-26T04:53:00.002-07:00

Godaido temple - Matsushima

Matsushima, Japan:

The land of the rising sun has distinct nuances that permeate the air and meet the eye – humility, meticulousness, precision, and spirituality - each intertwined by threads of unequivocal faith, woven by the invisible hands of the Supreme Being.

Godaido, an icon of the city of Matsushima, in north Japan, sits on a small island off the coast. This area is one of the country’s most scenic spots and is also famous for the cultivation of oysters.

There is something magnetic about Godaido temple, which attracts scores of visitors, who cross a wooden bridge that connects the island where Godaido stands with the mainland.

Walking on this bright-red painted bridge, which is a simple structure – spaced wooden boards attached horizontally to the two railings and over them two long long vertical planks, over which the visitors walk to and fro from the temple. One can see the sea splashing on to the rocky edifice.

The intentionally precarious red bridges connecting the island to the shore are known as sukashibashi. The gaps between the boards are deliberate, existing to compel worshippers’ concentration as they cross.

The wooden building has distinctive architecture - an arched roof, a latticework façade. The work is intricate yet simple and minimalist, incorporating inherent Japanese characteristics.

The present building, which was built by local ruler Date (pronounced Da –Tay) Masamune in 1604, has aged over the centuries, its surface bearing the distinct hues etched by Mother Nature – saline water, sunshine, rain, and snow.

Visitors make a beeline to the shrine, their steps crackling on the gravel surface as the waves splash on to the island’s rocky surface and the sounds of the seagulls in the distance permeate the air.

NYORAI STATUES

The sanctum sanctorum is home to five Nyorai statues (derived from Sanskrit, ancient language of India, and used in reference to Buddha, the enlightened and the omnipresent one), installed in 828 AD.

These statues are open for public viewing once in 33 years, the last time in 2006.

Godaido is a living example of the influence of Buddhism in Japanese culture and society

Devotees light incense sticks, fold their hands and say their solemn prayers before bowing and placing the incense sticks on a wooden container before taking a walk around the temple, which is small carvings of the twelve animals of the zodiac.

Godaido is a living example of the influence of Buddhism in Japanese culture and society. Nothing ostentatious, devoid of any flamboyant rituals, the recognition of the divine forces of the universe is in the fabric of life and being in Japan. Through this harmony, the country has withstood natural calamities that have struck, with Zen as their saviour and guiding light. (Zen is a derivative from ancient India Dhyan, which means deep in meditation, complete concentration and synergies of one’s positive energies).

March 11, 2011, is etched in living memory. On this day, the world sat transfixed by video feed as a devastating tsunami, which engulfed the region, hit.

In Matsushima, nature’s fury was minimal, locals attributing it to the divine presence and intervention that looked upon the people that saved them from the catastrophic waves.

“It is the power of Jizo (the Buddhist deity, who is protector of the vulnerable, especially children, travellers, and expectant mothers) and the god of Shiyogama that saved us,” Yuasa Tsunoda, a tour guide, said.

Visitors at the Godaido temple

Godaido was unscathed. The power of Zen, the serenity it exudes, perhaps, calmed the fury of the tsunami waves that stopped at the gate of Zuigan-ji temple, which is a walking distance away.

A mystery of the unexplained for many, perhaps, but the presence of the forces of divinity reaffirmed the faith of the people of Matsushima and God’s abundant blessings.

As one walks away from this shrine, one is blessed by the calm, soothing, serene energies, feelings that are hard to explain, but they resonate in one’s mind, body, and spirit.

The visit to Japan was a part of 'Pacific Islands and Caribbean Journalists' Programme' organised by the Tokyo based Association for Promotion of International Cooperation (APIC) with support from Foreign Press Centre, Japan.

Rediscovering the sunken Wickedest City

2022-08-23T07:58:00.005-07:00

Photo: Barba. SAS-INAH -- Excavating an 18th Century wreck in the Caribbean

Fables have been told and written accounts given about this enigmatic city, whose tales spread far and wide. Frequented by pirates – from the one-eyed to the wooden-leg ones (yes, we are taking some inspiration from Pirates of the Caribbean), sailors, wanderers, navy officers – Port Royal etched a name for itself.

The notorious Wickedest City, drowning in rum, loot, and debauchery, was engulfed by the sea – a powerful earthquake at around 11.40 a.m. on June 7, 1692. It is said that Three violent shocks, followed by a giant tidal wave, ripped the ground and within minutes, two-thirds of Port Royal sank under the rising waves.

Fast-forward to 2022, Mexican archaeologist Roberto Junco, along with colleagues from Japan, Canada, and the Netherlands, among others, are on a mission.

“We are helping the Jamaican Government through the Jamaican National Heritage Trust (JNHT) to prepare the dossier for the nomination of Port Royal as a World Heritage Site,” Junco said. “Our mission is to help to develop a Heritage Impact Assessment.”

For Junco, who has worked in underwater archaeology in Nevado de Toluca; Manila Galleon, Baja, California; Maritime Archaeology of the Port of Acapulco and Underwater Archaeology in Villa Rica, this project is as intriguing as the enigma attached to Port Royal is. It is a voyage encased in a time warp.

“For me to dive in Port Royal was a dream come true,” Junco said. “This is one of those iconic sites in the world. Diving in its waters, I was transported and began imagining the city before the event of 1692, thinking of all that happened in such a busy port.”

SPECIAL PLACE

For him and his team, this project holds a special place. “This work is certainly different from other sites I have worked in. It is a sunken city, and as such, there are only a handful of experts in the world. It is a very special place from an archaeological perspective,” he said.

Photo: Martinez SAS-INAH -- Exploring the wreck of an old steamer in the Pacific Ocean

“I was certainly very proud that we were able to make a detailed plan of Fort James and also to discover a section of a defensive wall that was not known to exist,” he said.

Underwater heritage is an interesting part of our past, and over the years, more stories have been added for better understanding. “We can retell our story, or change our story, too,” Junco said.

He explained the concept behind underwater archaeology, which applies various techniques to study culture. Among the most recent techniques is photogrammetry, he said, which enables the creation of 3D models of the sites and objects to study, monitors and share with the public.

“We managed to make a partial photogrammetry 3D model of Port Royal with an archaeologist from the JNHT last year,” he said. “The JNHT has a good portion of the sunken city in a 3D model.”

Junco said that a lot can be learnt and discovered as underwater remains are often well preserved, which is an asset in chronicling the city’s past.

ENJOY THE HISTORY

“Jamaicans can learn and enjoy the history of the island and the Caribbean through the lens of what was Port Royal,” Junco said. “Second, I think many tourists will be eager to visit Port Royal, and this helps Jamaica in many ways.”

Photo: Martinez SAS-INAH -- Entering the wreck of SS Indiana

Exploring the underwater city for Junco is akin to a kid in a candy store … in his case it would be remains of brick and mortar and fables they tell. The sunken city of Port Royal has many tales embedded in it. The research, he said, is ongoing, and there is a lot to explore.

Soon, visitors will be able to be a part of this chapter of Jamaica’s history. According to Junco, there are many ways in which people can enjoy underwater cultural heritage. From viewing the objects excavated from sites underwater to digital 3D models, the blended experience will marry historical perspectives with technology.

“I think the potential is immense,” Junco said. “I think the JNHT is doing a great job at promoting the site while protecting it and building the capacity to manage and continue research.

“Jamaica’s history is very interesting, and digging into the past will pay handsomely for this and future generations to come,” he said. “I am happy that I have been able to contribute a grain of sand [two cents] to this study, and it has been a very rewarding experience.

Somewhere, fathoms deep in the Caribbean Sea, the mythical Jack Sparrow may be heard saying, “If you were waiting for the opportune moment, that was it.” We concur.

Jag Mehta – creator of earthy ceramics

2022-08-21T23:25:00.001-07:00

There is a mystic and time-warped aura around the ceramics of Jag Mehta. One is intrigued by the simplicity of the style, form, shapes, and the rustic finish. The earthiness of the end product that Mehta creates transcends and is reminiscent of mankind’s early romance with pottery, creating functional and decorative terracotta art.

Pottery made at Matticookware Studio,
Pahari, Rajasthan, India.
February/ March 2020

Call it a coincidence or the strong influences of his land of birth, Lahore, Pakistan, and living in the port city of Karachi, home to the Indus Valley Civilization, Mehta’s ceramics transport one to the pottery of that bygone era. Or as Mehta says, his works are born out of the fact that he is self-taught and not having any formal training in ceramics and the intricacies of its processes.

“I have no formal education of ceramics and I know very little about glazes,” said Mehta, who has used his creativity to produce simple, yet awe-inspiring pieces. “I use oxides and underglaze colours, which do not need much knowledge, experimentation, or experience.”

A hotel and hospitality industry professional, Mehta made St Ann, Jamaica, his home. He says he is “Indian by birth, Jamaican by choice.” He travels extensively and has exhibited his works across the world.

He recalls that his first brush with ceramics was when he was posted in Puerto Rico in 1976. He got some well-known ceramists to open a gallery in the hotel. Mehta also saw the opportunity to get a group of people to learn making ceramics as a hobby. Mehta recalls that he was fascinated by the processes and decided to try his hand and was encouraged by his wife to continue – and the rest was history.

Mehta returned to Jamaica in 1977 and went to the Jamaica School of Art and Craft (now the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts) to source clay and also was encouraged by renowned Jamaican Eugene Hyde to continue doing ceramics. “Eugene helped me organise my first shows in Jamaica,” Mehta said.

Piece with the gold glaze done at
The Pottery Workshop, Jingdexhen, China.
March 2016.
SIMPLICITY OF THE PROCESS

His works are encased in simplicity in form and processes.

Mehta says he does not necessarily envision the final form of his creation when he starts on an artwork. It evolves as he works on it. “I start with very vague idea as to its shape or its finished look,” he said. “However it very rarely turns out like my original idea.”

The final artwork, he says, may also not take the same shape as he started out with. He says that the shape of the clay, like a musician composing a song, journeys through the crests and troughs. The medium (clay), which is as alive as the creative juices of the artist, guides and leads him at every step of the way. “The finished look is the product of the clay,” Mehta said. Upon completion, the work takes ones senses to a crescendo.

Many of Mehta’s works have an organic or an ‘unfinished’ look, which would, as we articulated earlier, take one’s senses on a time travel to the Indus Valley.

To give a context, Indus Valley Civilization, along with Mesopotamia and Egypt, are recorded as one of the oldest civilizations of mankind. Indus Valley Civilization extended from what is modern-day Afghanistan, Pakistan, and North West of India. This civilization thrived on the banks of River Indus.

Two of its most prominent cities, which were excavated in the 1920s – Harappa and Mohenjodaro – are also models of urban planning. The exquisite pottery and other artefacts, figurines, seals, and castings reveal the use of stone, bronze, and terracotta as the media.

Most of Mehta’s works are done by hand. The processes by which Mehta creates the ceramic artwork is on a small non electric wheel, akin to a Lazy Susan. He says that he slowly shapes the clay to give it a desired shape. What started as a hobby has evolved into a serious vocation, one that he lhas oved for over four decades. He has done shows in the UK and India and has travelled to China and Japan to make ceramics.

Pottery made at Matticookware Studio,
Pahari, Rajasthan, India.
February/ March 2020

He got a Bachelor of Science degree at Cornell University, New York,and an MBA from Columbia University, New York. He also did part-time studies in ceramics at Loughborough University of Technology, England; the University of Puerto Rico; and the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts.

Travelling back to his land of birth, clay has and still remains an integral part of the daily life in India. From the earthen cups in which pipping hot chai is savoured, to the pots and pitchers in which drinking water is stored to the lamps that are lit on Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, Mehta is honouring an age-old tradition of turning clay into works of art.

Photos courtesy: Jag Mehta

Guru Nanak - saint of the masses

2020-02-17T08:39:00.002-08:00

Courtesy: Girish Kumar Juneja

It is rare to come across prophets who are equally revered by the people of different religions, social milieu, and ethnicities. Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, is one of them. He was born in 1469 in the erstwhile Punjab province of India.

From his childhood, he rebelled against the existing religious dogmas and social practices based on blind faith or mere superstition. He showed no interest in the mundane ritualistic life and, instead, advocated unconditional devotion to the true Lord Supreme, Sat Kartar.

He had an inquisitive mind, which often led him into trouble with his teachers, who failed to quench the thirst of his curiosities. From his early life, he was an embodiment of compassion. When his father gave him money to start a business, he spent the entire amount feeding the deprived. On being questioned about his business, he replied that by feeding the hungry, he had performed the “true deal”, or a “Sacha Sauda”. For him, in the realm of God, there could be no deal better than helping the needy.

Guru Nanak was born at a time when there was widespread anarchy and strife in the society. The caste system that had divided the society into four segments – Brahmins (the priests), Kshatriya (the warriors), Vaishya (the traders), and Shudras (labourers) – had caused the unimaginable amount of injustice and friction in the society.

Five hunderd and fifty classical singers came together to sing hyms at a special concert in New Delhi to mark the birth anniverasry of the founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak Dev.

The priestly class had become corrupt, the warriors were involved in fierce battles for supremacy, the trading class started the economic exploitation of the unprivileged class, and the Shudras, being considered subservient to all three, had to bear the brunt and face the abhorrent act of ‘untouchability’ practised by the three ‘higher’ classes against them.

Guru Nanak, although born into a ‘high-class’ family of the social hierarchy of that time, was an insignia of humility. He always stood by and described himself to be among the ‘lowest of the low’(“ Neecha Andar Neech Jaat Neechi Hu At Neech, Nanak Tin Ke Sang Saath Vadian So Kya Rees” – Guru Granth Sahib (the holy scripture of Sikh faith).

PRACTISED WHAT HE PREACHED
Guru Nanak practised what he preached and preached what he practised. He aspired to create an egalitarian society in which there was justice and fair play for all. Therefore, while selecting his successor, the second guru of the Sikh faith, overlooking his own two sons, presumably the natural heirs, he nominated an outsider, Bhai Lehna ji.

In the old social fabric, women were discriminated against and considered inferior to men. Guru Nanak relentlessly tried to correct this imbalance inequality questioning “So Kyon Manda Akhiye Jis Jamme Rajan” (Guru Granth Sahib), ‘meaning’, why look down upon the women who give birth to great kings and warriors?’

He also firmly stood against the horrible custom of Sati Pratha, the practise in which women were required to commit suicide by self-immolation upon the death of their husbands. This was one of the cruellest and most heinous social practices prevalent at that time. Nanak raised his voice against this social evil to ensure a peaceful and respectful life for the widows in the society.

The fundamental tenets of Guru Nanak’s teachings are Kirat Karo (earn through fair means), Naam Japo (be in the remembrance of the god), and Vand Chhako (share with the needy). Through Kirat Karo, he taught to lead a life with honest and hard work, saying Ghal Khaye Kuchh Hathon De Nanak Rah Pachhane Se, meaning that those who will earn their livelihood honestly are the ones who find the correct path. By Naam Japo, he advocated for remembrance of God by counting His blessings and remaining ever thankful to Him.

School children form a human chain to highlight the effects of global warming and environment awareness in New Delhi on the ocassion of the 550th birth anniversary of the founder of Sikh faith Guru Nanak Dev.

To inculcate the spirit of Vand Chhako and to put an end to the menace of social and economic inequalities, he introduced the concept of Langar (community kitchen), where people from all walks of life sit down shoulder to shoulder and eat without any separation of the high or the low. The custom of Langar has since been institutionalised, and in the gurudwaras (abode of the gurus or Sikh temples) around the world, one can go and have a free meal. Through this, he pioneered the concept of Rana Runq Brabari, i.e., equality between the kings and the poor.

In spreading his message of universal brotherhood, compassion, equality of human beings, and opposition to fanaticism and hollow superstitions, Guru Nanak undertook long travels to different parts of the world from 1500-1524, navigating about 3,000kms in all four directions. All these travels were undertaken mostly on foot, accompanied by his companion, Bhai Mardana.

He travelled to all the important social and religious centres of Hindus, Muslims, and Buddhists, – Haridwar, Prayag, and Ayodhya (Hindu holy cities in India); Tibet and China in the north up to Assam (eastern Indian state) and Myanmar in the East; Mecca and Madina; Syria, Iraq and Iran in the west; and Sangaldip (Sri Lanka) in the south.

SPIRITUAL HYMNS
He penned many spiritual hymns, Gurbani (word of the guru), during these long journeys that have been incorporated into the principal holy scripture of the Sikhs – Guru Granth Sahib – which has been bestowed the status of the last and final guru and the fountainhead of all spiritual guidance.

Today, Sikhism is the fifth largest religion in the world. With a following of about 30 million worldwide and 90 per cent of them living in India, they are spread all over the world. There are about 500,000 Sikhs in Canada, an equal number in the United Kingdom, and about 250,000 in the United States. The other countries with sizeable Sikh populations are United Kingdom, Australia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Italy.

Although Sikhs form just about 1.7 per cent of India’s population and are a religious minority, thanks to their hard work, sincerity, entrepreneurial skills, valour, and dedication and devotion to the country, they have excelled in all spheres of national life there India and have acquired high positions – a former president, prime minister, chief justice, and chief of army staff.

As a befitting tribute to their contribution, the government of India has taken several decisions to commemorate the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev ji, which include the construction of a special corridor to the Pakistan border for visit of Sikh pilgrims to Kartarpur Sahib (Pakistan), the final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev JI. Sultanpur Lodhi, a town that is historically connected with Guru Nanak JI, will be developed as a heritage city.

Indian missions/posts abroad are also actively celebrating these events in association with local communities.

In Jamaica, several congregations are being organised by the Sindhi Hindu community in Kingston, Ocho Rios, and Montego Bay to mark the occasion and to rededicate themselves to Guru Nanak Dev JI’s concept of Sarbat da Bhala (well-being of the entire humanity). This planet can be a better place to live if we follow his teachings.

- Girish Kumar Juneja is charge d’ affaires at the High Commission of India in Jamaica, Kingston. This article is a tribute to the founder of the Sikh faith, Guru Nanak Dev, whose 550th birth anniversary was on November 12, 2019. Photos courtesy: Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee

amjamin

Grand Market – fuzzy, warm, on a crescendo

VIBRANCY

A HIT

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Artistically yours ... Weaving magic of fine art into everyday life

Tequila – a Mexican cultural tradition

Postcard from Japan: Hopes for a safer tomorrow

Naandeyé García Villegas – narrating social commentaries through her art

Sawara – a walk back in time

Turning blank walls into works of art

Treading on cobbled stones in San Juan

Republic Day – Celebration of power of people

The art and science of Ayurveda

Marigold – a mystical journey from Mexico to India

Konark – an ode to the Sun God

India at 75 – evolution of the national flag

Postcard from Japan: Manhole covers - designs of urban art

India Chronicles: Humayun’s Tomb - poetry etched in red stone

Mahatma Gandhi: Apostle of peace and his messages in ink

India Chronicles: Ellora Caves – spirituality carved on the hills

India Chronicles: Nalanda – the universe of knowledge

Postcard from Japan: Tokyo Sky Tree - confluence of harmony with technology

Godaido – encased in serene energies

Rediscovering the sunken Wickedest City

Jag Mehta – creator of earthy ceramics

Piece with the gold glaze done at The Pottery Workshop, Jingdexhen, China. March 2016.SIMPLICITY OF THE PROCESS

Guru Nanak - saint of the masses

Piece with the gold glaze done at
The Pottery Workshop, Jingdexhen, China.
March 2016.
SIMPLICITY OF THE PROCESS