Take a drive through rural Tamil Nadu and at the entrance to many villages, you will be greeted by colourful mud horses with fierce men riding atop them. What do these terracotta figures symbolise? This short video is about ancient village deities(కావల్ దైవం) of south India; fearsome gods who protect, but are incredibly human as well. Listen to stories of how these village gods may have originated, and learn about the customs and beliefs they inspire to this day. This video takes you to an Aiyanar temple in a village called Keezha kuil kudi(కీళ కుయిల్ కుడి, మదురై), on the outskirts […]

Diwali, the festival of lights, also known as Deepavali, is celebrated with great joy all across India. Lamps are lit, sweets prepared at home, and fire crackers are burst with great enthusiasm. But did you know that this festival is celebrated on different days, at different times and for different gods in different parts of India? India is a big and diverse country. Each part of the country has its own customs, myths, and ways of doing things. Is it any surprise that there are many stories associated with Diwali? In North India, Diwali celebrates King Rama’s return to Ayodhya. […]