GaviRangappa S P

The 11th and 12th centuries marked a golden era in the literary and spiritual history of Karnataka, especially under the reign of the Western Chalukyas.  This period witnessed the emergence of a powerful socio-religious movement called the Vachana Movement, led by the Vachanakaaras visionary poets, saints, and reformers who composed Vachanas, short and powerful poetic verses in Kannada. The Vachana movement of the 11th–12th centuries played a revolutionary role in shaping and refining the Kannada language. At a time when literary Kannada was dominated by ornate and Sanskritized styles, the Vachanakaaras introduced a bold, accessible, and expressive form of prose-poetry that transformed the linguistic culture. Before the Vachana movement, Kannada literature was largely confined to royal courts and religious institutions. It followed rigid forms influenced by Sanskrit, making it inaccessible to the masses. The Vachanas broke this barrier. The Western Chalukya Empire (also...

The fashion industry is the second-largest polluter in the world after the oil industry. It consumes massive amounts of water, energy, and resources, often relying on synthetic fibers derived from petroleum. At the same time, agricultural industries generate tons of organic waste every year most of which is either burned or left to rot, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. As the world seeks sustainable solutions to mounting environmental and economic challenges, an unexpected transformation is unfolding. Agricultural waste like pineapple leaves, banana stems, coconut husks, and even orange peels is now being reimagined as the raw material for the textiles of the future.  Despite the promise, there are challenges. Scaling these materials to match global fashion demand, maintaining durability and aesthetic appeal, and making the processes cost-effective are ongoing hurdles. However, with growing consumer awareness and advancements in green technology, the shift from...

On the occasion of International Yoga Day, we would like to share the benefits of Yoga, and its yogasanas. Yogasana, the physical aspect of yoga involving postures and movements, is more than just a form of exercise. Rooted in the ancient Indian tradition, yogasana is a discipline that harmonizes the body, mind, and breath. Regular practice offers a multitude of benefits physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking holistic well-being. 1.Improves Physical Health: Yogasanas help in strengthening muscles, improving posture, enhancing flexibility, and increasing balance. Regular practice boosts stamina and coordination, while also aiding in weight management. Asanas like Tadasana, and Trikonasana enhance skeletal alignment and body awareness. 2.Enhances Respiratory Function: Many yogasanas are practiced in sync with deep, conscious breathing. This connection improves lung capacity and respiratory efficiency. Asanas such as Bhujangasan...

The term “Caste” is not native to Bharat. It comes from the Portuguese word “casta”, meaning breed or lineage. Despite its foreign origins, caste has become one of the most defining, and divisive features of Indian society. Its deep entrenchment in social structures, political systems, and personal identities continues to shape Bharat's destiny and direction. Long before colonial powers arrived, our society had a complex system of Varna (functional classification) and Jati (birth-based community groups). These were fluid and diverse, often varying regionally. However, colonial administrators, especially the British, misunderstood and oversimplified this dynamic system. They codified it through censuses, gazetteers, and legal frameworks, freezing caste identities into rigid categories creating a static social hierarchy that persists today. The British used caste for administrative convenience and control: 1.Census Operations (from 1871 onwards): Castes were officially re...

Aging is a natural, continuous process that affects every individual differently. While the rate and impact of aging vary from person to person, scientists and medical professionals commonly divide aging into three general stages: early old age, middle old age, and late old age. Understanding these stages can help individuals and caregivers prepare for and manage the physical, emotional, and cognitive changes that come with age. 1.Early Old Age (60–74 years) Symptoms and Changes: Slower metabolism, graying hair, reduced skin elasticity, and minor joint stiffness. Slight reductions in vision and hearing capabilities may begin. Some individuals may notice reduced energy levels and longer recovery times after physical exertion. Occasional forgetfulness or slower recall, though not necessarily signs of dementia. Retirement or loss of purpose may bring emotional fluctuations, including anxiety or a sense of isolation. Conditions like high blood pressure, arthritis, or type 2 dia...

As the Government of Bharat prepares to launch the much-anticipated general and caste census, communities across the nation stand at a crucial juncture.  Our devanga community, deeply rooted in heritage, industrious by nature, and rich in cultural contribution, this is a defining moment.  A well-documented, unified voice can shape policies, determine representation, and unlock rightful access to resources for generations to come. The caste census, unlike the general population count, dives deeper into the socio-economic and educational realities of various castes. This data will not only influence policy planning but also play a crucial role in how government benefits, educational quotas, skill development programs, and welfare schemes are allocated. For a community like ours, which has long contributed to the nation through trade, crafts, service, and intellect, yet often goes unrecognized in official records, this is our opportunity to correct the narrative. To b...