Shalu Sharma's Blog

Okay, grab your biggest mug and settle in. I’ve been working on this awesome children's book, and honestly, I’m dying to tell you about it! It's called " The Festival of Colors: Anya's Holi Adventure ," and it’s hitting Amazon KDP soon. If you've got little ones (think preschool up to about second grade) or you're just looking for a really beautiful, genuine way to share the magic of Holi, you have to add this to your list. We all know finding books that truly represent and explain cultural holidays in a way that’s simple and super engaging can be tough, right? I wanted to create something that felt authentic and fun, not just educational. That's why I created Anya, a sweet, energetic little girl who basically invites you right into her family's celebration. The book follows her from the night before Holi, watching the Holika Dahan bonfire, all the way through the joyful chaos of throwing colors the next day. Seriously, the illustrations are this...

Every year, when Diwali comes, something changes in the air. The evenings start glowing with tiny lamps, the smell of sweets fills the lanes, and people’s faces light up in a way that words can hardly capture. Diwali is not just another festival; it is part of our soul as Indians. It brings back memories, stories, and the sense that good always wins in the end. The name Deepavali comes from the Sanskrit words Deepa meaning lamp, and Avali meaning a row. So it literally means a row of lights. These rows of lights have been shining across generations to remind us that light always triumphs over darkness, and truth over falsehood. Most people in India connect Diwali with Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after fourteen years of exile. When he defeated Ravana and came home with Sita and Lakshmana, the people of Ayodhya decorated the whole city with lamps. Imagine that joy an entire kingdom glowing in welcome. Even today, when we light our diyas, somewhere deep inside we are part of that sa...

Holi, the vibrant festival of colors, is one of the most joyous and widely celebrated festivals in India. It marks the arrival of spring and symbolizes the victory of good over evil. Rooted in Hindu mythology, Holi brings people together, erasing social barriers as they play with colors, dance, and enjoy festive delicacies. The festival is celebrated over two days. The first evening, known as Holika Dahan , involves lighting a bonfire to signify the burning away of negativity and evil. This tradition is inspired by the legend of Prahlad and Holika , where the young devotee Prahlad was saved from fire while his evil aunt Holika perished. This event reinforces the belief that righteousness always triumphs. The next day is the main celebration, Rangwali Holi , where people smear each other with colored powders and drench one another with water. Streets, parks, and open spaces become lively as friends, family, and even strangers come together in a riot of colors. Music, dancing, and laug...

The River Ganges, often called "Ganga" in India, is one of the most famous and sacred rivers in the world. Flowing through the northern part of India and into Bangladesh, it has shaped the lives, culture, and history of millions of people for thousands of years. Known for its spiritual importance in Hinduism, the Ganges is more than just a river—it is a symbol of life, purity, and renewal. However, today, it also faces serious challenges like pollution and overuse. This article explores the Ganges’ journey, its role in society, and the efforts to protect it. The Geography of the Ganges The Ganges begins high in the Himalayas, the tallest mountain range in the world. Its source is the Gangotri Glacier in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, where it starts as a small stream called the Bhagirathi River. At an altitude of about 3,892 meters (12,769 feet), icy water melts from the glacier and begins its long journey. The Bhagirathi joins another river, the Alaknanda, at a place calle...

  Visitinga Hindu temple as a non-Hindu can be a spiritually enriching experience, and showing respect for the traditions and rituals of the place is key. Here is a detailed guide on what to do and how to behave when visiting a temple as a non-Hindu. 1. Dress modestly In Indian culture, modesty is greatly valued, especially in religious spaces. Both men and women should wear simple, clean, and modest clothing. If in doubt, ask a Hindu friend or colleague. For Men : A kurta and pyjama or loose-fitting trousers with a shirt is appropriate. For Women : Sarees, salwar kameez, or long skirts with a modest top are ideal. Covering your head with a dupatta or scarf is sometimes appreciated but not always necessary. Footwear : You have to remove your footwear before entering the temple premises. Shoes are typically left outside at designated places.  2. Entering the temple Cleanliness : When entering the temple, ensure you are clean, bo...

  Antarvasna is a Hindi word where "Antar" means "inner" or "internal" and "Vasna" refers to "desire" or "lust." Together, "Antarvasna" signifies the deep, internal desires or passions that reside within an individual. However, in the Indian context the word is often used to denote hidden or suppressed sexual desires, but its deeper meaning transcends mere physical connotation. Cultural Context In Indian society, the balance between tradition and modernity plays a significant role in how desires, especially sexual ones, are perceived. Historically, India has been home to profound texts such as the Kamasutra , which treats human desire as a natural and essential aspect of life. However, with the rise of certain conservative attitudes, particularly during the colonial period and continuing in modern times, these discussions about desire have become more suppressed. Taboos and Suppression : Many families, especial...

Once Upon a Time in Ayodhya Long ago, in the beautiful city of Ayodhya, there lived a wise and kind king named Dasharatha. He had three queens—Kaushalya, Kaikeyi, and Sumitra—and four brave sons: Rama, Bharata, Lakshmana, and Shatrughna. Rama, the eldest son, was loved by everyone because he was good, brave, and kind-hearted. Rama Marries Sita When Rama grew up, he won the hand of a beautiful princess named Sita in a contest by lifting and breaking a giant bow that no one else could even move. Sita was as kind and gentle as Rama, and they loved each other very much. They got married and returned to Ayodhya, where everyone was very happy. The Evil Plot King Dasharatha wanted Rama to become the next king, but not everyone was happy about this. Queen Kaikeyi’s maid, Manthara, filled Kaikeyi’s mind with jealousy. She reminded Kaikeyi of a promise the king had made long ago to grant her any two wishes she wanted. Kaikeyi demanded that her son Bharata be made king and that Rama be sent to th...

Title: Ramayana for Kids: A Tale of Adventure and Devotion: Illustrated Story with Colourful Pictures of Ramayana for Children   – Now Available on Amazon! I am delighted to announce the release of our latest creation, a captivating picture book that brings to life the timeless saga of Ramayana. Available now on Amazon, this exquisite book is a visual feast for readers of all ages. Ramayana, one of the most revered epics in Indian mythology, tells the extraordinary story of Prince Rama, his beloved wife Sita, and the loyal Hanuman. Our picture book meticulously captures the essence of this epic journey, taking readers on a thrilling adventure through lush forests, ancient kingdoms, and mystical realms. Filled with stunning illustrations and vivid imagery, each page of our picture book is a work of art, depicting key scenes from the Ramayana in breathtaking detail. From Rama's heroic feats to Sita's unwavering devotion, every moment of this timeless tale is brought to life in vi...

India has to be one of very few countries in the world where one can legally stand on the street and have a cannabis drink without being arrested. The reality is that, cannabis so ingrained in the culture of India that the authorities are unable to criminalise it fully. Although selling of cannabis is prohibited in India, it’s readily available and no attempts are made to arrest the sellers. In fact, cannabis plants are native to India and are often a nuisance in many Indian gardens and fields across the country. Bhang (cannabis, marijuana) is made from the buds and leaves of female cannabis plant. Through production and selling of cannabis is illegal in the country, bhang remains legal at some places due to cultural and religious reasons. In my home town of Patna, you’ll fine women selling bhang goli (bhang balls) on the streets at the famous Patna Market. Hindu holy men have used marijuana for centuries and they believe that it’s the best way to worship and understand Lord Shiva , o...

  Exploring India: A Journey of Cultural, Natural, and Social Discovery From the bustling cities of the North to the ancient Hindu temples of the South, India is a land of diverse cultures, landscapes, and experiences. With its vibrant economy and active role in the global community, India is a great destination for travellers looking to explore a unique culture, experience diverse landscapes, and gain valuable insights into the complexities of global society. From sampling the local cuisine to exploring the vibrant nightlife, India offers something for everyone. Visitors can also challenge themselves by exploring the country’s varied geography and ecosystems, gaining a better understanding of different cultures and worldviews, and enjoying the beauty of the Taj Mahal. With its unique culture, diverse landscapes, and valuable insights, India is an ideal destination for travellers looking to expand their horizons and gain a better appreciation for the world and its many wonders. ...

Following the popularity my previous post called the “ 10 things you will hate about India ” here are few more anecdotes of a similar note. I am listing some annoying behaviours of Indian people that you’ll not find anywhere in the world. Indians that are born and or at least raised outside of India are fine. What I find most surprising that an ancient culture such as of India’s which is unparalleled in history; refinement is not something that is found in India. Read to find out why! Urination on the side of the road Although defecation is somewhat restricted to early mornings, Indian men just find it easier to urinate at whenever they want at the side of the road without being stopped. Although, things are changing rapidly in the metros, it’s still widespread in smaller towns and villages. Burping Some Indians just don’t get it! They burp as if no one’s listening. It’s an extremely filthy habit. Many Indians don’t have any etiquette or sense of politeness. As far as I am aware, burpi...

  " Namaste World. I am Diya. My life in India " is a book of mine which is available on Amazon stores. It is a charming and educational children's book that introduces young readers to the rich culture and traditions of India. Through the eyes of a little girl named Diya, readers are invited to explore the Indian way of life and gain a greater appreciation for cultural diversity. In this book, Diya narrates her life in India and shares her daily experiences with readers. From going to school with her mummy in a tuk-tuk, to visiting the zoo, riding an elephant, celebrating Holi, and praying at the temple, Diya's adventures offer a unique and engaging look at Indian culture. Not only is " Namaste World. I am Diya. My life in India " a delightful and entertaining read for young children, it is also an excellent tool for promoting multicultural education. The book provides a valuable resource for teaching children about India and its customs, and helps inst...