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From Wax to Sacred Form: The Journey of South Indian Bronze Statues – A Timeless Treasure of Tradition
Jayasudha Parthasarathy
India is a land of diverse cultures, renowned for its rich heritage, where each state embraces its own unique traditions, languages, and art forms. It is a country deeply steeped in values, spirituality, and artistic expression. Among its many treasures, the temples of India stand out for their distinctive architecture and rituals. Each temple holds its own significance, none lesser than the other, serving as sacred spaces where devotion and craftsmanship converge. Towering gopurams (entrance towers), intricately carved mandapams (pillared halls), and sanctums adorned with divine figures showcase the mastery of artisans who saw no separation between art and worship....
Cambodian Wood Characteristics and Statue Care
Jayasudha Parthasarathy
Cambodian Wood Characteristics and Statue Care Cambodian wood carries a story within its grain — a story of nature, time, and tradition. Locally grown hardwoods such as Monkey Pod, Thnong, Sal, and other native varieties are cherished for their strength, fine texture, and warm natural tones. These woods are naturally resilient and dense, allowing them to hold intricate details with remarkable clarity, making them ideal for hand-carved sculptures meant to last for generations. Artisans often work with wood that has been seasoned over time, allowing it to acclimate to its environment and settle naturally before carving. This patience ensures greater...
Origin of Hinduism in Cambodia - The Khmer Empire, a Hindu-Buddhist Empire of Southeast Asia
Jayasudha Parthasarathy
Angkor Wat Temple, Siem Reap, Cambodia Hinduism was introduced to Cambodia as early as the 1st century CE, by Indian traders, and maritime explorers who traveled across Southeast Asia. During the Pallava period (3rd–9th century CE), it played a crucial role in shaping Cambodia’s religious and cultural landscape. Through trade and cultural exchanges, Hinduism became deeply ingrained in Khmer civilization, influencing art, architecture, governance, and traditions—many of which endured even as Buddhism later rose to prominence. Funan, an ancient kingdom in Southeast Asia, was the first major Indianized kingdom in Cambodia, profoundly influenced by Hinduism. According to legend, in the...
Sri Vaishnavism: A Tradition of Devotion, Guru-Parampara, and the Legacy of the Alvars
Jayasudha Parthasarathy
Vaishnavism, a prominent tradition within Hinduism, centers on devotion (bhakti) to Lord Vishnu and his avatars. As one of Hinduism oldest spiritual traditions, it traces its origins to the Vedic period and underwent significant development in the post-Vedic era. Vishnu is revered as the supreme, all-encompassing deity who sustains and preserves the universe. It is believed that Lord Vishnu incarnates on Earth whenever righteousness (dharma) wanes, to restore cosmic order. Vaishnavism emphasizes profound devotion and total surrender to Lord Vishnu as the supreme path to liberation (moksha). A cornerstone of Vaishnavism is the concept of Guru - parampara (disciplic succession),...
The Divine Shakthi Goddesses Madurai Meenakshi, Kanchi Kamakshi and Kashi Vishalakshi
Jayasudha Parthasarathy
India, known for its rich tapestry of culture and spirituality, is home to a myriad of gods and goddesses, each with their unique attributes and significance. Among the many revered deities, three goddesses stand out prominently in the Hindu pantheon, they are Meenakshi, Kamakshi, and Vishalakshi. These three goddesses represent the multifaceted nature of the divine feminine in Hinduism. They embody the qualities of strength, compassion, wisdom, and the power to fulfill the desires of their devotees. Meenakshi Amman, a revered Hindu deity is an avatar of Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva. The name "Meenakshi" means "fish-eyed," meaning eyes...