Sengol is a cultural and historical treasure that represents our national pride, virtue, tradition, and history.

 Sengol : Its Significance And Controversy Surrounding It

The Sengol represents authority and power in ancient times. Although the exact era of its origin or initial usage is unreliable, various sources show that it has been a part of Tamil culture for over 3000 years. It was customary to offer the sceptre to the new ruler upon his accession to power.

 

According to experts, the sceptre is a symbolic depiction that reminds those in the authority of their position or duty to the public to guarantee good governance and justice. In addition, it serves as a continual reminder that the Sengol does not bend in its pursuit of justice. 

 

Sengol was presented as a noble gift in ancient times, but many of us were unaware of its rich history and current conflict. Let me explain how and why Sengol grabbed the limelight and why there was controversy, so read on.  

Installation of Sengol in the Indian Parliament 

May 28 2023, marked a historic day for the country when it was handed over its new parliament building. Sengol, a cultural mark commemorating power transfer, was installed near the speaker's chair in the new structure. 

The most exciting part of the ceremony was that the Government installed the same sceptre that the Britishers presented on August 14, 1947, to India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. It represented the transition of authority from the British and was kept at an Allahabad museum.

 

Sadly, the sceptre was confined to a museum corner as a "walking stick" of Nehru. Many people questioned Nehru's attitude and intent as a result of this. According to some, Nehru sought to protect his secular image and avoided using the Sengol because of its history in Hindu ceremonies. Many believe the evidence was intentionally destroyed to remove the momentous event from national memory. 

Upon learning about its significance, the incumbent Government decided to install the "Dharmic Stick" in its rightful place. It is also an attempt to restore this antiquated custom and honour India's freedom.

Why The Controversy?

Everything appeared to be going smoothly until the politicians entered the fray with their loud tongues and evil intentions. Some opposition parties rejected the Sengol as entirely fictitious, while others denied the concept of justice. Others referred to the transfer of Sengol to Nehru as misrepresentation and demanded photographs from the day to back it up—some web portals with a dubious reputation and backing also back up such bogus accusations. 

While corrupt politics has long harmed our nation's interests, politicians haven't given up. 

Government’s Efforts to Remove Cloud of Doubt

To refute the opposition's charges and set the record straight, the Central Government has issued a 30-page docket. 

The material supplied proves beyond question that the vesting of the Sengol, a significant cultural signal of power transfer during the Chola period, was used to signify the transfer of sovereignty from Colonial rule to India.

 

The evidence supplied includes media accounts such as Time Magazine, novels such as D F Karaka's Betrayal of India and Freedom at Midnight by Larry Collins and Dominique Lapierre, and hundreds of additional books and documents from the period in question.

 

The historical facts claim that during the ceremony, the priests recited 11 verses of the Tamil sacred script, "Kolaru Pathikam," concluding with a prayer to Lord Shiva that the new authority would rule eternally.

 

Such factual details were tabled before the people with unimpeachable evidence by the Government. 

 

Here is a short film sourced from Google that will help you better understand the chain of events that occurred during the presentation of the sceptre to Nehru. 

Conclusion

To summarize the events, I believe, Sengol is a symbol of India's rich cultural heritage. It is a reminder of the country's diversity and the importance of respecting each other's differences. Sceptre is an important symbol for the people of India, reminding them of their history and the power of their collective voice. It also reminds us that the Indian people have the ability to bring about change and fight for justice. 

Image and Video Courtesy: Google

A wide variety of bathroom designs have evolved over time from the traditional and western styles. It can be overwhelming to select a design for a home when there are so many options available.

 Bathroom Designs (Part -2)

When it comes to bathroom singing, most young boys and girls are passionate about it. No wonder it’s their favourite spot. Regardless of age, the bathroom is the perfect place to meet someone truly special -- and that's you. 

 

Here, we will discuss some more bathroom designs.

 

Split Bathroom

Divided bathrooms are popular decorating ideas. These are intended to split the entire region in half. One has the sink, vanity cabinets, and mirror storage areas, while the other has the bathtub, shower, and toilet seat. These designs are practical, modern, and customizable. In addition, the split bathroom provides much-needed privacy. In any case, it is crucial to ensure no compromising on style on either side. 

Furthermore, based on your preferences and needs, they can be carried out in various ways. One of the designs worth considering is mentioned below.

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Dry and wet split bathroom

The toilet is split between dry and wet portions on this site. For example, the shower or bathtub is enclosed, while the toilet seat, basin, and bathroom cabinetry are on the other side. A glass door separates it, giving it a contemporary and pleasing image. Furthermore, it avoids water stains and marks on the bathroom's dry sections and keeps household members from sliding.

Couple’s Bathroom

Despite the best intentions, a bathing area created for one person can be a hassle for two. All of this might inspire you to look into a couple's bathroom ideas to gain extra space. Bathrooms for couples allow people to move comfortably around the room without tripping over each other. Some of the concepts to explore in a couple restrooms are mentioned below.

• Double sink:  A double vanity enables each person to customize the sink and surrounding area to their needs, from beauty products to décor. Separate your locations in large restrooms by installing independent sinks on adjacent walls or dual vanities. Nevertheless, one giant mirror can be installed to create a feeling of cohesiveness.

• Double shower:  Depending on your space and needs, choose a tub/shower combo or a walk-in shower. In a couple's bathroom, a single soaking tub anchors the area, providing harmony with a twist.

Spa Bathroom Designs

With the wellness trend sweeping the country, bathrooms are becoming sanctuaries of indulgent relaxation. The very essence of spa bathrooms is to let you relax and unwind in a luxurious environment. 

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Featuring luxurious marble, granite, quartz countertops and under-mount sinks, it takes luxury to a whole new level. You may also look for bathroom vanity ideas that inspire a spa-like feel. Consider adding a chandelier and bathroom plants to create a standout spa style. Further, to make a statement, purchase a unique washbasin and a customized mirror. 

Things to Consider When Designing Your Dream Bathroom

There are several bathroom designs accessible, but in order to get the optimal creation, specific vital components must be taken into account. Remember these bathroom design ideas and recommendations as you create your perfect place. 

 

1. Space

It is essential to use the entire space available. The layout of the lavatory will depend on the general area. The design of a bathroom should meet both aesthetic and functional requirements. A well-designed bathroom will not only look lovely, but it will also be practical. While developing your bathroom plan, consider your daily schedule, style, and how the space can best accommodate that. Additional considerations include ventilation, storage space, plumbing, and electrical outlets.

        

 2. Lighting

Bathroom lighting is very vital and should not be overlooked. However, you may use other forms of illumination besides natural light. You may, for example, employ soft mood lighting to convert the space into a soothing setting. 

 

3. Storage

Storage is a critical factor in ensuring a clean and organized bathroom. Besides being unsanitary, dirty countertops and damp towels will spoil any sense of calm you aim to achieve in your bathroom. Vertical shelves are one option for storing bathroom supplies in small bathrooms. 

 

4. Budget

When designing a bathroom, it is essential to remain within budget. Remember, lavatories can look attractive without breaking the bank. All it takes is for a skilled bathroom designer to use new concepts to create your perfect place. 

A well-designed toilet is an essential component of your house. There are several concepts that combine modern and classic elements. In addition, modern fixtures and materials are incredibly adaptable and blend well with various housing styles. Thus, whether you're remodelling a small bathroom or updating your main bathroom, modern fixtures, tiling, colours, and hardware may help you improve your design. But nonetheless, it is critical to prepare ahead of time and think about how you and your family will utilize the space depending on individual requirements. 

Bathrooms are versatile, safe, and comfortable spaces. Often, they're where you begin and end your day, and where you feel the most at ease.

 Bathroom Designs ( Part-1)  

Every home needs a well-designed bathroom. They are one of the most frequented rooms of a house, so it stands to reason that they should look great! 

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Bathroom designs have dramatically evolved over the past few years. As a result, it is a spot for inhabitants to retreat to unwind, think, and even rejuvenate after a hard day at work. All of this has a significant impact not only on how the space looks but also on how we design it.

Many bathroom design ideas are available, and incorporating the best suited to your space and style takes a lot of work. It is because there are various elements to consider while planning your perfect get-away room. A deliberate curation of ideas might be helpful whether you are building or updating your master bathroom or intending to convert an underused section in your home into a luxury lavatory. 

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Here, I have compiled a list of the most innovative and inspiring bathroom design ideas for people looking for fantastic ways to re-decorate their bathroom spaces.

Best Bathroom Design Ideas For Your Home

When designing a functional and reliable bathroom, many behind-the-scenes mechanics and elements must be considered. Here are some of the most stunning bathroom design ideas that will inspire you to design the place of your dreams.

 

Simple and Elegant Bathroom Design

Simple bathroom designs have an attractive and timeless quality to them. You are at ease the moment you step inside. Clean, uncluttered environments look great and are easy to create. While they are more appropriate for small spaces, they are nevertheless appealing for huge ones.

You should begin by painting the bathroom walls in light colours. A softer tone provides a soothing impression while also creating the illusion of more space. It is vital to keep the area uncluttered, which necessitates the use of practical storage solutions. You may utilize mirror storage and wall-mounted vanity cabinets to store the items. It also assists in organizing the space, making cleaning easier and providing greater mobility.

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Further, you may customize the furniture and taps and add moisture-absorbing plants to your liking. 

Luxury Bathroom Design

Several luxury bathroom design ideas can make your room appear lavish and magnificent. For example, using exotic stone surfaces can create a luxury look that is second to none. 

 

Marble is one of the few stones that can evoke a sense of grandeur in modern bathroom design. A marble bathroom is a luxurious space that is classy, subtle, and absolutely gorgeous. In addition, the stone's ageless beauty makes it an attractive choice for both walls and floors.

 

If money is not an issue, you may use the stone in conjunction with some more bathroom decorations. This includes the following:

• Installing sauna, 
• Decorating the space with artwork, 
• Coloured sanitary-ware
• Using exotic stones such as Onyx  as a backsplash or shower backdrops
• Mood lighting or waterproof lights fitted in the shower 

Drinking chai with loved ones is a ritual, a celebration, and a break from the grind of everyday life. Taking tea breaks is an indispensible aspect of most Indians' lives.

                     Why Do Most Indians Drink Chai?

India is renowned for its addiction to chai. Even movie stars like dancing to chai-themed tunes. 

It is an integral part of Indian culture; from the bustling metropolis streets of Mumbai to the dusty by-lanes of Bihar, you are never far away from a tea stall. But what is it about chai that makes it so popular among Indians? 

What about this spicy drink makes it so unique and indispensable in Indian society? If you are searching for answers, sit back and relax because we're about to go on a journey through time to discover the exciting story of India's favourite beverage. Learn how tea became essential to Indian customs and why most Indians order chai as their go-to beverage. 

The History and Origin of Chai in India

When foreigners visit India or spend time with Indians living abroad, they often notice that Indians prefer tea to coffee. You may be wondering why. So what's the backstory of this traditional Indian drink? Let's have a peek.

To begin with, chai has been a staple of Indian life for millennia. Historians claim it came to the nation via the historic Silk Road trade between Persia and India.

The original recipe comprised boiling black tea leaves blended with spices like cloves, cardamom, and ginger, which were considered medicinal properties. Over the years, locals added distinctive flavour combinations like cinnamon, cumin and milk to the recipe. These additional ingredients enhanced and intensified the flavour of the tea.

Today it is one of India's most popular drinks enjoyed by people from all walks of life - street-side vendors or royal families! 

Chai is an Integral Part of Indian Culture

For almost all Indian households, the day begins with a cup of tea. It is often served during social gatherings and celebrations. Here, tea is a means to replenish oneself while socializing with others.

Tea has also become a symbol of hospitality. When visitors arrive at homes or places of work, it is common to serve them a hot cup of chai. It is a means to reflect warmth and strengthen social relationships by providing an opportunity to exchange tales.

This tradition has been used for centuries to communicate news, share ideas and create memories. As such, it has come to be seen as a powerful tool for social bonding.

Chai has become more than a soothing beverage due to its significance and popularity in Indian society. It's a vital component of Indian tradition that connects individuals from all backgrounds and experiences.

The Popular Flavors and Varieties of Chai in India

Every street corner, whether in a metropolis or a tiny town, has a chai stall, with people of all ages and backgrounds sipping their favourite drink cup after cup. But why are Indians so fond of chai?

The answer lies in the many flavours and varieties of chai found in India. From spicy masala chai (a black tea blend that combines cloves, ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, and other spices) to creamy Kashmiri kahwah (made with green tea and saffron), there's something for everyone.

For those who prefer sweetened drinks, there are also sugar-infused versions like the popular Irani chai (which uses milk and a generous sprinkle of sugar).

Plus, tea is very affordable in India. For example, one can get a cup of hot chai for as little as 10 rupees (around 15 cents USD). This makes it accessible to everyone. What other beverage can offer you the same flavour experience at such an unbeatable price?

Health Benefits of Drinking Chai

Among other benefits, health-conscious Indians enjoy drinking tea for its many health benefits. From aiding digestion to boosting antioxidant levels, there is strong scientific evidence that drinking chai can benefit your health.

Digestion

Chai contains ginger and cardamom, known for their digestive properties. Cardamom is primarily known for aiding digestion and reducing stomach cramps and pains. Ginger has been used for centuries as a remedy for stomachaches, nausea, and other digestive issues. It also helps reduce inflammation and bloating.

Antioxidants

Chai is packed full of antioxidants! The spices used in it - black pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, ginger - all contain high doses of antioxidants that can help fight against damage caused by free radicals in the body. These antioxidants help protect cells from damage and can even neutralize cancer-causing agents in the body.

Immune System

The spices in chai also have powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can boost immune system function and help your body fight off infections like colds or the flu. In addition, the caffeine found in chai helps stimulate the immune system by increasing white blood cell production, which is vital for fighting infections.

So not only does drinking chai make you feel cosy on a cold day - it also has numerous health benefits that make it an essential part of many Indian households!

Finally

Chai is more than just a drink – it's an integral part of Indian culture with its long and fascinating history. People have been drinking chai and its various regional variations for centuries, and its popularity continues. It encapsulates the warmth and comfort of being part of a family, community, and nation. Chai is shared among strangers and loved ones, uniting all with a purpose.