Manish Singh is a digital marketing expert with over 15 years of experience in SEO, content strategy and online growth across industries such as technology, health and education. He specializes in creating high-quality, search-optimized content that is both informative and user-focused.
He has extensive experience as a writer and editor across multiple content formats, including educational guides, technical articles and health-related content.
Manish is also a dedicated yoga and meditation practitioner, which supports his balanced, disciplined and focused approach to content creation.
How frustrating it is, when you are unsuccessful to lose weight and in getting a shape and body that you probably dreamt of. However, by following simply the Indian diet chart for weight loss with some exercise, you can lose weight easily.
There are multitudes of ways which an individual may adopt to get a perfect physique. We are proud of our Indian spices and its natural tendency of increasing cholesterol, but this is true as well, that they contain certain minerals and nutrition, which help to burn our fats and aids in weight loss.
Lose Weight With this Indian Diet Chart For Weight Loss
Well, you don’t have to worry, if you are an Indian food and health conscious too. However, it is always recommended to break your 3 time meals in 6-9 time meals, so that the digestion and metabolism rate is strong and helps you lose your weight faster. This below chart will help you reduce your weight provided you follow it for 4 weeks continually-
Diet Chart: Week 1
Early morning: a cup of warm green tea, 1 fruit of your choice + 3-4 mixed seeds such as watermelon, flax, sesame, melon to name a few.
Breakfast: paneer/Veg sandwich with mint chutney / 2 idlis with sambar/roti with dill leaves and sambhar / 2 egg omelette with 2 brown bread slices / 2 multigrain mixed vegetable parathas + 1 glass of vegetable juice of your choice (sugarfree),4 walnuts and 2 dates / Fruit of your choice/tender coconut water with malai.
Pre-lunch: 1 plate of preferred salad with vinegar dressing.
Lunch: 2 multigrain roti / 1 Katori red or brown rice + 1 bowl dal / pulses like rajma / Egg bhurji / non-veg dish (boiled or steamed) + 1 bowl low-fat curd.
Mid-evening: 1 glass of tea or coffee / 1 glass buttermilk.
Snack: 1 fruit of your choice /1 bowl Sprouts bhel.
Dinner: 1 bowl chicken gravy + 1 bowl rice / 2 multigrain rotis + salad + 1 bowl low-fat curd / 1 bowl vegetable dalia upma or 1 bowl of salad or soup.
Post-dinner (if you are up late): 4-5 pieces of nuts/ 1 glass warm low-fat milk.
Diet Chart – Week 2
Early morning: 10 ml wheatgrass juice + 5 to 6 almonds and walnuts.
Breakfast: 2 medium vegetable uttapam with sambhar / 1 bowl vegetable dalia upma + chutney / 2 medium paneer, oats and ragi dosa with sambar / 1 bowl fruit, flaxseed and oats porridge / 1 bowl red rice or brown rice pulse-mixed pongal + 1 bowl sambar / 1 sprouted red rice poha + 1 glass vegetable juice of choice.
Mid-morning: 1 glass Whey protein shake with milk / assorted fruit platter / Trail mix/Tender coconut juice with the malai.
Pre-lunch: 1 bowl minestrone soup with more veggies and less pasta.
Lunch: 2 multigrain roti + 1 bowl vegetable subji / non-veg subji + 1 bowl boiled pulse chaat (rajma, chana, black chana, green moong etc) / 1 bowl red or brown rice + 1 bowl mixed vegetable sabji + 1 vegetable egg omelette.
Snack: 2 multigrain flour khakras / 1 fruit of your choice + 1 cup green tea / Trail mix with mixed seeds.
Lunch: 2 multigrain roti + 1 bowl veg or non-veg (seafood, fish, chicken) subji of choice + 1 bowl of thick dal / 1 bowl red rice + 1 bowl mixed vegetable sambar + 1 bowl sabji + 1 bowl low-fat curd.
Snack: Til or peanut chikki with 1 cup spirulina and mixed veggie juice.
Dinner: 1 bowl fruit and veggie mixed salad of choice + 2 bran rotis (wheat roti or oat bran) + 1 bowl of non-veg subji / 1 bowl red rice or brown rice + 1 bowl dal + 1 bowl curd.
Post-dinner (if you are up late): 1 glass of whey protein shake.
Diet Chart – Week 4
Early morning: 10 ml Amla juice + 3-4 walnuts and almonds mix.
Breakfast: 2 medium dal parathas (made from leftover dal if any) + 1 bowl low-fat curd / 2 Ragi veggies patties with peanut chutney / 2 small and fluffy vegetable pancakes / 2 parathas + 1 bowl vegetables raita / Paneer and vegetable rice bath (from leftover rice) + 1 bowl curd / 2 idlis with sambar.
Pre-lunch: 1 bowl sprout salad / 1 bowl grilled chicken or fish salad.
Lunch: 1 bowl millet and dal khichdi + 1 bowl mixed vegetable kadai / 2 multigrain roti + 1 bowl non-veg subji or egg bhurji +1 glass of spiced buttermilk / 2 vegetable millet uttapams + 1 bowl sambar.
Snack: 1 cup spiced boiled corn or 1 corn on the cob + 1 cup coffee, tea or green tea/ 1 Fruit of choice / 1 glass whey protein drink.
Dinner: 1 bowl vegetable and mixed seeds salad + 2 multigrain roti + 1 non-veg sabzi or dal of your choice / 1 bowl red or brown rice + 1 bowl mix veg sambar + 1 egg bhurji.
Post-dinner (if you are up late): 1 glass warm milk.
Final Say
Whatever you eat as your diet, always remember to do some yoga and workouts, before starting up a new day, a great diet with a proper yoga plan, will surely benefit you in the long run. Hence, do not give up, if at any point of time you feel demotivated!
Global warming is affecting the atmosphere of earth in a serious way. The Earth’s atmosphere is built of different gaseous layers. Sun rays reach the earth’s surface by traveling through the atmosphere. Similarly, the heat from the Earth’s surface travels the space after passing through the atmosphere.
The gases surrounding earth’s atmosphere will prevent all of heat from escaping back into the space. “Green House Gases” is the name given to them. These gases help in maintaining the temperature of the earth to the optimum levels. The composition of greenhouse gases should not be disturbed by any means as this prevents global warming and the entire phenomena associated with it.
The harmful UV rays will not be able to leave earth’s atmosphere as the increased carbon monoxide levels would not allow them to escape.
The temperature begins to rise slowly and gradually and as the result of which the bio cycle of Earth’s atmosphere is disturbed. Polar ice caps begin to melt.
The volume of fresh water making entry into the ocean and the level of ocean would substantially increase.
The CO2 produced by humans creates a strong layer of gas around the earth. The layers allow the sun’s rays to enter into earth’s atmosphere, but does not let the heat to pass out.
The heat gets trapped in the earth’s atmosphere and the temperature level begins to rise gradually over a period of time.
How Global Warming Affects Earth’s living Creatures
When there is global warming, the living creatures as well as human beings begin to see the potential danger. There are several ramifications associated with global warming phenomena that directly or indirectly affect living creatures on the earth. These include:
The chances of evolution of living creatures will diminish so quickly that they will not be able to adapt.
Since the environment around begins to change unnoticeably, living creatures face extinction.
With temperature rising, living beings will have the problem to sustain. After the threshold temperature is reached, the living beings start suffering quietus.
Effects of Global Warming on Earth’s Atmosphere
Global warming has become a serious global problem, mainly caused by human activities. The burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes are increasing the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. In particular, gases such as carbon dioxide (CO₂) are increasing the Earth’s temperature by trapping the sun’s heat, causing climate change.
Temperature Increase
According to scientific studies, the Earth’s average temperature has been rising at a rate of 0.11°F (0.06°C) per decade since 1850, and has increased by a total of more than 2°F so far. However, since 1982, this rate has accelerated three times and has now reached 0.36°F (0.20°C) per decade.
2023 will be the hottest year ever, 2.12°F (1.18°C) higher than the average temperature of the 20th century (57.0°F or 13.9°C). It was also 2.43°F (1.35°C) higher than the average temperature before the Industrial Revolution (1850-1900).
The most worrying fact is that the last 10 warmest years (2014-2023) have been recorded in the recent decade itself, which shows the increasing effects of climate change. Data source: National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI)
Weather instability:
Climate change is increasing the incidence of extreme heat waves, intense rainfall, floods and droughts. Changes in monsoon patterns are having a negative impact on agriculture.
Melting of glaciers and polar ice:
The ice of the Arctic and Antarctica is melting rapidly, causing sea levels to rise. If this trend continues, problems of flooding and population displacement may arise in coastal areas.
Ocean Acidification:
The acidity of the oceans is increasing due to the high amount of CO₂ dissolved in the atmosphere, which is adversely affecting marine life. Coral reefs are also being destroyed by this change.
Effect on biodiversity:
Many species of wildlife and plants are on the verge of extinction due to climate change. The food chain is also being affected due to imbalance in the ecosystem.
How to Reduce the Effects of Global Warming
Here are 11 easy ways, we can help reducing the effects of global warming. Some of them are so easy ways/steps that even a student or a children can follow.
Plant trees in your area and in the lawn area of your home. Trees help in absorbing CO₂. It is very important to plant more and more trees and prevent deforestation.
It is very important that you use the recycle paper as this will put less stress on the environment.
Go for light cotton clothing on the very hot summer days, instead of sitting in air conditioned room.
Just go for the Full Laundry Cleaning Process.
In winters, do not go for room heating, instead wear woolen clothes.
Instead of taking your personal car, make it a habit to go by bus. If the distance is short, it is always better to walk.
Switch off the lights in your home if you do not require them.
Eat less processed and non-vegetarian food. It is always healthy to maintain a healthy and vegetarian diet.
Try drinking from tap water. Prefer not to use bottled water.
Reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by using renewable energy sources (solar and wind energy), improving energy efficiency and adopting clean technologies.
Making people aware and implementing strict environmental policies by governments is essential to tackle this problem.
Conclusion
Global warming is taking the toll and every individual and collective effort should be made. It is not just an environmental problem, but it has become a global crisis. If we are not cautious now, it can have even more serious consequences in the future. It is the responsibility of all of us to contribute to controlling this problem by making small changes in our lives.
Smoking Ban: Smoking must be restricted in public areas. I strongly agree with these because many people show interest to smoke even though it causes a detrimental effect on public health as well as the environment.
Smoking in public places will lead to many hazardous health issues for smokers and non-smokers. When people smoke, the dangerous fumes from cigarettes will go to the respiratory tract and causes cancer. For instance, if a person smokes in a park or a person surrounded by smokers inhales that fumes so the restriction on smoking will reduce health issues for the public. Moreover, public smoking can affect young people to addict to it. Children and youth perceive smoking as one of the factors to enjoy thus they may practice and addict to it. Recent studies have shown that the Young generation is prone to smoking addiction when they see smokers very often.
Another reason to use smoking is the deleterious effect on the environment because it can cause air pollution. The overwhelming number of smokers in public spaces will generate harmful fumes from cigarettes which contribute to air pollution. For example, it was already revealed in his reports smoking can lead to air pollution. Besides, smoking creates very discomfort in nonsmokers If they smoke in public. Because of order generates from cigarettes while smoking, sometimes it causes nausea, headache, irritation, and discomfort to those who stand next to the smokers.
Why smoking in public places should be banned?
No Smoking must be implemented in public areas. I strongly agree with these because many people show interest to smoke even though it causes a detrimental effect on public health as well as the environment.
Smoking in public places will lead to many hazardous health issues for smokers and non-smokers. When people smoke, the dangerous fumes from cigarettes will go to the respiratory tract and causes cancer. For instance, if a person smokes in a park or people who surround by smokers inhale that fumes so the restriction on smoking will reduce health issues for the public. Moreover, public smoking can affect young people to addict to it. Children and youth perceive smoking as one of the factors to enjoy thus they may practice and addict to it. Recent studies have shown that the Young generation is prone to smoking addiction when they see smokers very often.
Another reason to use smoking is the deleterious effect on the environment because these can cause air pollution. The overwhelming number of smokers in public spaces will generate harmful fumes from cigarettes which contribute to air pollution. For example, it was already revealed by who in his reports smoking can lead to air pollution. Besides, smoking creates very discomfort in nonsmokers If anyone smokes in public. Because of order generates from cigarettes while smoke, sometimes it causes nausea, headache, irritation, and discomfort to those who stand next to the smokers.
Pros and Cons of Smoking Bans
The pros and cons of smoking bans in public places are:
Pros of Smoking Bans in Public Places
Place a good example for children: smokers have been historically driven to the habit by imitation of other people. Parents, artists, politicians, and other personalities we admired used to smoke. Anyhow, kids would try to follow the behavior of those they like or find role models in their lives and ambitions. The fewer children see other people smoking, the less prone they will be to smoke.
Health and rights of non-smokers: those who do not smoke will not have to inhale the smoke from the cigarettes of smokers. Passive smoking is a major health concern that has caused the death of millions of people worldwide. Moreover, non-smokers have the right to stay away from smoke if that is their decision. In this case, the freedom to smoke in public areas clashes with the individual right of those who don’t want to be exposed to smoke.
Smell: Tobacco smell displeases most people. Even smokers complain of how bad their clothing smells after spending time in close places with a lot of smoke. Banning smoking in public spaces would contribute to reducing tobacco odor. No need to wash pullovers, dresses, or trousers, as often as before.
Diminish smoking consumption: the benefits of stopping smoking are evident. If smokers cannot smoke cigarettes in public spaces they will likely be smokeless. This will be good for their health and their finances. Tobacco has become very expensive in many countries. Tobacco users also claim that banning smoking in public places may help them with quitting.
Reduce public spending: the prohibition of smoking in public places would help governments save a large amount of money on healthcare. With a ban, air quality would improve and public health systems would spend less on treatments for cancer and respiratory diseases. Moreover, cleaning costs would be reduced. Today cigarette butts force local authorities to intensify the frequency of street cleaning.
Cons of Smoking Bans in Public Places
The demonization of smokers: prohibiting smoking cigarettes contributes to the stigmatization of smokers. Smokers are normal people, some of them smoke because they really enjoy the habit others because they fail to quit. Forcing them to smoke in private or only in smokers’ designated areas is a way to stigmatize them in society.
Comparative disadvantage: there are other annoying or potentially dangerous habits for which regulation is not so strict. For instance, in many countries, it is allowed to drink alcohol in public places. Alcohol consumption is another great threat to public health. We often see people very drunk in public spaces. They may provoke fights and set a poor example for children.
Less tax revenue for governments: tobacco is a great source of income for governments. Cigarettes are heavily taxed and the money collected from tobacco consumption can be used to fund research projects against the diseases caused by it or even education programs to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco. In this way, governments make a lot of money. If smoking bans lead to fewer cigarette sales, that could mean that governments have reduced revenues fro.
Pleasure: smoking has been acknowledged as a pleasure for centuries. Humans are often willing to undertake some risks for their health for the sake of enjoyment. It is accepted that people drink alcohol because of the fun they may get from it, despite its obvious risks. Similarly, extreme sports are practised by an increasing number of people regardless of the dangers they entail. If we want to ban tobacco because is bad for health, following the same logic, we should also ban fast food, etc.
Freedom: public spaces belong to us all. Banning smoking in public areas means limiting individual liberties. Government regulation can become increasingly intrusive if we allow it. What is the boundary between the collective good and individual freedom? There is a delicate trade-off and it is not clear where the red lines should be placed. Banning smoking in public places they decide to ban speaking loud, cracking jokes, or wearing a certain type of clothing. We objectively define what is required to ban or not.
Reasons Why Smoking Should be Banned
List of main reasons why smoking in public places should be banned are:
1. No Smoking Will Help Controlling Pollution
Smoking adds to pollution every day as people smoke them and release toxins into the air. Our air is already wanting in good quality. This is only increasing the problem. Global warming has become the main problem because of the solid inflow of toxins into our air. We also want plants to help filter our air and produce purified clean air to breathe. The air around us is also needed by plants to breathe. Crops grown by farmers in contaminated air, do not give the top nourishment for our bodies. Polluted air and soil are the root cause of these issues.
2. Smoking ban will reduce the chance of lung cancer
Cancer is a common problem for those that smoke for many years. The probabilities of escaping cancer are better instantly after giving up the habit. However, the damage to the lungs can be substantial. Many losses turn around to advanced lung cancer. The lungs of these patients are frequently studied to understand how much damage has happened. They are mostly found to be totally black in color, like the inside of a fireplace.
The rise of cancer is in many forms. Lung cancer can also befall after one stop smoking. It takes time for the cells to heal themselves once they have been mutilated. Smokers very usually regret the decision to try cigarettes when cancer is diagnosed. Others may be angry after being exposed to unprotected second-hand smoke.
3. It will help children grow healthy
Children are in great danger from cigarette smoking. Those children whose parents smoke regularly are susceptible to this poison, every day. Young kids that are still growing can be mainly vulnerable to the bad effects of smoking. Children can also without difficulty become addicted when they live in a home with a smoker.
The most effective way to quit smoking
Smoking is an addictive habit that can commence to a number of health problems. That is ranging from various types of cancer to high blood pressure and heart disease. It’s also difficult to quit. Fortunately, there are several options to try if you’re looking to stop smoking as soon as possible.
1. Counseling
One method many people find to be helpful when they quit smoking is counselling or therapy. According to the American Cancer Society, it’s one of the more successful methods, especially when combined with one of the others. Fortunately, there are many options when it comes to counselling. Doctors and other medical professionals can meet with you to discuss your options and help keep you on track. Therapists can also help you come up with a plan, recognize your triggers and come up with ways to stop yourself from picking up a cigarette. You can receive counselling via phone through organizations like the American Cancer Society or the American Lung Association. You may even find support groups for smokers in your area where you can attend meetings once a week or several times a month.
2. Medication
Another option is to talk to your doctor about medications you can take to help you stop smoking. According to the American Cancer Society, medications may also help block the impact of nicotine on the brain. These are prescription medications, however, so you’ll need to talk to your doctor first.
3. Nicotine Replacement
Speaking of nicotine, some people quit by using nicotine replacement products, like gums and patches. Many of them are available over the counter at your local pharmacy. You can talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how to use them if you have questions, and when used properly, they may help you fight nicotine withdrawal symptoms, according to the American Cancer Society. There are also inhalers and nasal sprays made with nicotine that are available via prescription.
4. Combination Plan
Because smoking is highly addictive, you may find that just one way of quitting doesn’t help. In this case, talk to your doctor or counsellor about trying multiple options at once. You might choose to chew nicotine gum, attend counselling and take medication. Just make sure your combination methods won’t interfere with each other; that’s why talking with your doctor is important.
Conclusion
Smoking should be totally banned in a public places because of its severe health risks to both smokers and non-smokers. The health risks are much more to non-smokers because they may double up mainly to those who already suffer from other diseases such as heart and lung problems. Banning smoking in public places will solve a lot of problems especially in public health as well environmental issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What are the possible problems that can arise while smoking in public places?
Ans. Tobacco causes cancer and it affects the people around the smoker as well. Smoking leads to air pollution and smoking in public places can lead to side effects for children also.
Q2. What are measures taken by the government to stop smoking in public places?
Ans. The government is taking action to stop people from smoking in public places. In many places, smokers are fined if caught smoking and the government also conducts campaigns informing people about the ill effects of smoking.
Modern climate changes include global warming and its effects on Earth’s weather patterns. Previously there were periods of climate change, but today’s change was considerably more rapid and was hardly caused by natural causes. Instead, they result in emissions of greenhouse gases, particularly CO2 or methane. Most fuel used as an energy source generates emissions. Besides agricultural practices, certain industries have also been involved in forestry. The greenhouse gas reaches the surface by being opaque to the sun and heats it up
What is Global Warming?
The common temperature enlarged at the quickest rate in recorded history and experts see the trend is fast changing. Global climate change deniers have argued that there has been a pause or a lag in rising international temperature.
Global Warming is the phenomenon of increased average air temperature close to the surface of the earth over the past one or 2 centuries. Climate scientists, since the middle twentieth century, gathered careful observation of assorted weather phenomena (such as temperature, precipitation, and storms ) and connected influences on climate (such as current and therefore the part chemical composition ). This information indicates the earth’s climate has increased over nearly every conceivable duration since the start of time with the influence of human activities. The start of the commercial revolution has been deeply plain-woven into the material of global climate change.
Causes and solutions of Global Warming
Global Warming happens when greenhouse gases increase in the atmosphere and along with air pollutants absorb daylight and radiation from the sunlight that is supposed to bounce off the earth’s atmosphere. These pollutants which may last for years to centuries within the atmosphere, trap the warmth and cause the earth to urge hotter that’s referred to as the greenhouse impact.
The major causes of Global warming are human activities like burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and farming. Let’s have a closer look:
1. Burning fossil fuels
When fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas are burned to produce electricity or power, they release Carbon dioxide gas into the atmosphere. Australia is a big producer of carbon dioxide as compared to the rest of the world.
Electricity generation is the main cause of producing Carbon dioxide Australia produces 73% of electricity by burning coal and the remaining 13 % by gases.
Solution
We should reduce the amount of electricity produced from coal and gases.
We should increase the quantity of electricity from clean and renewable resources like solar energy.
2. Deforestation and Tree Clearing
Plants and trees play a very virtual role in our lives because they absorb carbon dioxide from the environment and release oxygen which is very important for all living organisms. But the humans destroyed a large area of vegetation around the world for farming, urbanization, and infrastructure. When vegetation is removed or burned, the released Carbon dioxide comes back into the atmosphere and leads to global warming.
Solution
We should prevent deforestation and tree cleaning. Afforestation should be encouraged.
Call our leaders to produce stronger laws against deforestation.
3. Fertilizers
Fertilizers produce greenhouse gases in the atmosphere but it also a great source of remediation. Nitrogen and carbon are affected by the fertilizers in the atmosphere. It originated from terrestrial and aquatic sources from crops, livestock, and forestry.
4. Oil Drilling
Crude oil is used to make petroleum products. The same fuel is used in aeroplanes, cars, and trucks and to make products such as medicines and plastics. Petroleum is very important for us but it also affects the environment. Exploring and drilling of land may disturb land and aquatic species it also affects vegetation.
5. Agriculture and Farming
Animals particularly livestock like sheep and cattle produce methane which is a greenhouse gas. With the increase In the grazing of livestock like in Australia. The methane produced leads to an increase in global warming.
6. Radiative Forcing
The temperature of the earth’s surface and lower atmosphere may be modified in 3 ways- A net increase in the solar radiation entering the top of the earth’s atmosphere, a Change in the fraction of the radiation reaching the surface, and a Change in the concentration of the greenhouse gases.
In all cases, change is in terms of radiative forcing which is a measure of the influence of a particular climate factor.
7. The influence of human activity on climate
Human activity has influenced global surface temperature by changing the radiative balance governing the earth on various timescales and at varying spatial scales. Human activities also lead the climate damage by changing and increasing the number of aerosols and ozone in the atmosphere.
Natural Causes of Global Warming
The main natural causes of global warming are:
1. Volcanoes
Volcanoes are one of the Largest natural contributors to global warming. The ash and smoke emitted during volcanic encryption go into the atmosphere and effects the environment.
2. Water Vapour
It is also a kind of greenhouse gas. Due to increases in the earth’s temperature, more water gets evaporated from the water bodies and stays in the atmosphere adding to global warming.
3. Forest Blazes
Forest fires emit a large amount of carbon dioxide and other harmful gases. These gases are released into the atmosphere and increase the earth’s temperature.
Effects of Global Warming
Global warming affects our physical environment and human societies. It conjointly includes the social and economic changes that stem from living in a hotter world. Several physical impacts of global climate change are already visible, along with extreme weather events like ice mass retreats (glaciers are large masses of ice that flow slowly downhills).
In seasonal events, the water level rise and it is very harmful to human beings. Because of climate variability, food insecurity takes place in several places and puts pressure on the water.
Global warming affects our environment, land, food, feed, fiber, timber, and energy. Rising temperature and dynamic precipitation pattern leads to an increase in extreme events which threaten development as a result of a negative impact on the economic process in developing countries.
1. Effect on weather
Global Warming results in a rise in weather events like heat waves, drought, cyclones, blizzards, and rainstorms. Such events can still occur gradually and at a dangerous level.
Higher temperatures end up in an increase in evaporation and surface drying. As the air warms, its water-holding capability increases.
2. Effect of temperature
Hot temperatures become worse and leads to several kinds of disasters, including storms, heatwaves, floods, and drought. A hotter climate creates an environment that may collect, retain, and drop a lot of water dynamic patterns and land become wet and dry.
3. Heatwaves
Heatwaves with high wetness happen gradually and severely. Extreme hot nights have doubled in frequency within which extreme hot summers are happening. These changes aren’t explained by natural variability and therefore the attributed by climate sciences to the influence of global climate change.
Heatwaves pose a huge risk to human health whereas heat waves with low wetness end up in dry conditions that increase wildfires.
4. Flooding
Hotter air holds a lot of vapour, and when this turns to rain it comes to serious downpours doubtless resulting in a lot of floods. According to a study in 2017, the height of precipitation will increase five and ten times within the United state and different places around the globe. There has been a marked increase in intense precipitation events that have resulted in increased flooding.
There’s no important dynamic within the atmosphere during a flood. The only change is increased probabilities of wetness within the atmosphere and therefore the evaporation of water into the atmosphere in abundant higher.
5. Drought
Global climate is impacted by multiple factors related to drought, like the quantity of precipitation and the way quickly the rain evaporates. It extends the severity and frequency of drought around the globe. Their impact is aggravated as a result of increased water demand, pollution growth, urban growth, and environmental protection efforts in several areas.
6. Wildfires
The long duration of hotter temperatures usually causes soil and small trees and shrubs to catch wildfires. The hot dry conditions will increase the chances that wildfires are more intense and burn a large area once they begin. In summer air temperature increases severely. The carbon gets stored in trees and releases carbon dioxide and other harmful greenhouse gases such as methane and nitrogenous gases into the atmosphere. Smoke and wildfires cause air pollution which is very bad for human health.
7. Effects on Oceans
The ocean absorbs the heat from greenhouse gases leading to increased ocean temperature. Increasing ocean temperature also affects marine species and the ecosystem. Rising ocean temperature also affects humans while increasing the prevalence of diseases. The ocean absorbs a large quantity of heat as a result of the increased concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
8. Effect on wildlife and nature
Global warming has powerfully affected natural biological systems. Species worldwide are moving toward the colder ocean. On land, species move to the higher elevation, whereas marine species get colder water at depth.
Other Effects of Global Warming
Melting glaciers, early snow softening and severe droughts can cause a lot of dramatic water storage and increase the danger of flooding.
Forests and farmers and cities can face difficult new pests, heat waves, heavy downpours, and augmented flooding. All those factors can harm or destroy agriculture and fisheries.
Allergies, asthma, and infectious disease occurrence can become a lot of common because of the augmented growth of spore manufacturing ragweed, the higher level of pollution, and also the unfold of conditions favourable to pathogens and mosquitoes.
Solutions for Global Warming
Power your home with renewable energy
Choose a utility company that generates a minimum of its power from wind or star and has been certified by greenhouse energy.
Reduce water usage
It takes tons of energy to pump, heat, and treat your water. so take shorter showers, turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth, and switch to water sense–labelled fixtures and appliances.
LED light bulbs
They are cheaper: a ten-watt diode that replaces your ancient 60-watt bulb can save $125 over the light bulb life.
Eat the food you buy and don’t waste it
Approximately 10 per cent of U.S. energy uses goes into growing, processing, packing and shipping food, and about 40% of which just winds up in landfills. if you are wasting your food you are likely cutting down on energy consumption.
Pull the plugs
The outlets in your home are likely powering about 65 % of different devices. An average load for a home in the U.S audio and video devices, cordless vacuum and power tools, and other electronic devices use energy even when there are not charging. This load across all U.S households adds up to 50% to a large power plant in the U.S. It’s better not to leave fully charged devices plugged in.
Encourage Afforestation
Afforestation is the best way to reduce global warming as trees absorb a large amount of Carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
Increase the use of CNG
The smoke from vehicles is the major contributor to global warming. The use of CNG will lead to a reduction in vehicular smoke and a reduction in global warming too.
Frequently Asked Questions on Global warming
Q1. Which gases cause global warming? Ans. Carbon dioxide, Methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gases lead to global warming majorly.
Q2. What is the greenhouse effect? Ans. The greenhouse effect is a phenomenon of warming the earth’s surface. When the sunlight enters the earth’s atmosphere, some of it reflects while some part gets trapped in the atmosphere due to harmful gases like carbon dioxide, methane, etc. This trapped sunlight warms the earth’s atmosphere and leads to global warming.
Q3. What steps does the Indian Government take to reduce global warming? Ans. Indian Government has taken many initiatives to reduce global warming like- Atal Mission on Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), Smart Cities Mission and Urban Transport Programme, and the Swachh Bharat Mission.
Q4. What are the steps we can take personally to reduce global warming? Ans. Even a single step taken to reduce global warming holds great importance. You can adopt reduce, Reuse and recycle habits, Reduce the use of Air conditions, switch to LED bulbs, buy energy-efficient products, etc.
Coronaviruses (COV) are a huge group of viruses that cause normal cold to serious illnesses, for example, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-CoV). A novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain not identified in humans earlier.
Coronaviruses are zoonotic, which means they are transmitted between animals and people. A point by point examination found that SARS-CoV was shipped from kvet cats to people and MERS-CoV to dromedary camels to people. Many known coronaviruses are roaming in animals that have not yet infected people.
Basic indications of infection incorporate respiratory side effects, fever, hack, cough, brevity of breath, and trouble relaxing. In progressively severe cases, disease can prompt pneumonia, acute respiratory disorder, kidney failure, and even death.
Standard recommendation to prevent infection incorporate routinely washing hands, covering mouth and nose when hacking and sniffling, cooking meat and eggs altogether. Maintain a strategic distance from close contact with anybody giving indications of respiratory infection like cough & sneezing.
The WHO has announced the coronavirus disease as a worldwide health crisis.
How did it spread?
According to the sources, the coronavirus started spreading from a “wet market” in Wuhan which sold both dead and live animals including fish and birds.
Such markets represent an elevated danger of infections bouncing from animals to people since cleanliness models are hard to keep up if live animals are being kept and butchered nearby. Normally, they are additionally thickly packed.
The animal wellspring of the most recent outbreak has not yet been distinguished, however the first host is believed to be bats. Bats were not sold at the Wuhan advertisement however may have tainted live chickens or different animals sold there.
Bats are host to a wide scope of zoonotic infections including Ebola, HIV and rabies.
Till now, this virus has been spread in 88 countries and more than 3,800 have died due to this.
Coronavirus current status in India?
Until 9th March 2020; 42 has been detected with Coronavirus in India, out of which 13 are Italian citizens, who were travelling to Jaipur.
Towards prevention from this disease, the government has suspended all tourist visas of China, Iran, Japan, and South Korea the badly affected countries with Coronavirus.
India additionally limited export of around 26 Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients and formulations antibiotics, vitamins and hormones like Paracetamol, Tinidazole, Metronidazole, Vitamins B1, B6, B12, hormone progesterone, with immediate effect.
Indian government also introduced screening wards in Delhi, Mumbai, Karnataka, Manipur and Mizoram.
In Delhi-NCR, Ram Manohar Lohia (RML hospital), AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Science), Safdarjung hospital, and a camp in Manesar are monitoring the suspects.
In Maharashtra, two hospitals Kasturba Hospital and Naidu hospital (Pune) have been dedicated.
In Manipur there are five centres, and in Mizoram one centre (Zokhawhtar) is dedicated to monitor Coronavirus suspects.
A lot of us crave for junk food a lot. Personally, this is one reason it is hard to stick on to a healthy diet. Cravings are majorly driven by the brain’s need for reward and not your body’s desire for food. If you are someone, who can take a bite and stop there, then indulging a little on these craving for sweets is absolutely fine.
Why Do We Crave Sweets?
Craving for sweets is a natural response driven by blood sugar fluctuations, emotional triggers, and dietary habits. For people with diabetes, this urge can be challenging as it may lead to uncontrolled blood sugar levels. However, with the right approach, you can effectively manage sugar cravings without compromising your health.
How to Control Craving for Sweets for a Diabetes-Friendly Lifestyle
However, if you tend to overeat and binge just as you get a taste of sugary foods, then giving into such cravings is the worst thing for you to do. So, how do you eradicate the very urge to eat sweets? We all need some tips and tricks to begin our transition. So, here are the top secrets that will help end your cravings for sweets and definitely for the good.
1. Avoid Processed Foods
Processed foods and sugar are just as addictive as cocaine or heroin. Eating sugar artificially triggers a region of the brain known as nucleus accumbent. This then leads to the production of the dopamine which is the pleasure neurotransmitter. The levels of dopamine tend to drop and we begin feeling low or a bit down. That is when we crave for this good and pleasant feeling again and again, thereby leading to sugar addiction.
2. Boost Your Serotonin
The happiness hormone also known as Serotonin can be accelerated in our body via right sleep schedule, diet and exercise. So, when you have enough serotonin you do not crave for sugar or sweets.
Manage Stress with Mindful Eating
Stress triggers cravings for comfort foods. Practice meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to reduce emotional eating and control cravings naturally.
Get Enough Sleep
Lack of sleep increases hunger hormones, making you crave sugary foods. Ensure 7-8 hours of quality sleep to keep your metabolism and cravings in balance.
3. Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth Naturally
Rather than going for artificial sugars you must opt for the natural sweeteners that have little or no calories. When there are no calories, it would not lead to an increment in the blood sugar levels thereby ensuring a check on your diabetes. Certain fruits and vegetables too can be used as an alternative to those harmful, addictive artificial sugars.
4. Drink Plenty of Water
Dehydration is often mistaken for hunger or sugar cravings. Drink plenty of water, herbal teas, or infused water with lemon and mint to keep cravings in check.
There may be times when you may feel that your body is demanding sugar. However, the fact of the matter is that your body is only dehydrated and is craving only for water. In case you still have that craving for sugar after drinking water, you can add some honey to the water and drink it. This way your sweet tooth is satiated without actually having a dessert.
5. Have Plenty of Greens
The green drinks have the ability to boost your energy and reduce your cravings for processed foods and sugar. So, have them in abundance.
6. Keep Your Blood Sugar Stable
You must consume several small meals all throughout your day instead of three large portions to avoid a dip in your blood sugar level. Ideally, you must consume your body’s requirement for animal protein between 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. On the other hand, your evening meals should be gluten free grain like seeds such as millet, amaranth, quinoa or buckwheat.
If you keep a check on this, your body will produce more serotonin and you’ll naturally feel happier. This also ensures a better good night sleep. Take note, a fermented vegan protein also keeps the blood sugar levels in check.
7. Balance Your Meals with Protein & Fiber
Consuming protein-rich foods (like eggs, nuts, and lean meats) and fiber-rich options (like whole grains, vegetables, and legumes) helps stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce cravings naturally.
8. Eat More Sea Vegetables
The sea vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals. They make for an incredibly healthy snack. When you eat anything sugary, it begins to deplete the minerals from your body. So, these sea vegetables will ensure that your body gets the minerals that your adrenals need.
9. Opt for Dark Chocolate
Craving sweets? Try dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher). It satisfies the craving while offering antioxidants that support overall health.
10. Exercise to Reduce Cravings
Physical activity helps in reducing stress and balancing blood sugar levels, which can significantly lower your urge to eat sweets. Even a 10-minute walk after meals can help!
11. Choose Natural Sweeteners
If you must satisfy your sweet tooth, opt for natural sugar alternatives like stevia, monk fruit, or dates instead of refined sugar. These provide a sweet taste without spiking blood sugar levels.
Healthy Alternatives to Satisfy Sugar Cravings
Craving for…
Healthy Alternative
Chocolate
Dark chocolate (70%+ cocoa)
Ice Cream
Greek yogurt with berries
Candy
Dried fruits (in moderation)
Sugary Drinks
Coconut water, herbal teas
Cookies
Almond flour or oatmeal cookies
Final Word
Managing craving for sweets is possible with small, mindful changes in your diet and lifestyle. If you follow these 7 tips listed above, you won’t even crave for sugar and your taste buds will slowly and gradually begin to change. Try enjoying the natural sweet taste in alternatives like onions and carrots. With minor changes in your daily habits, you can free yourself from these sugar cravings and embrace a healthy style of living and eating.
Earthquakes are one of the most powerful and destructive natural forces on Earth, capable of reshaping landscapes and impacting human lives in dramatic ways. They result from various geological processes and sometimes even human activity. While most earthquakes are caused by the shifting of tectonic plates, several other factors can contribute to their occurrence. Understanding the causes of earthquakes is essential for predicting and preparing for these natural disasters. In this article, we explore the top 10 causes of earthquakes, from natural processes to human-induced factors.
Top 10 Causes Of Earthquakes
An earthquake can be both a man-made and natural disaster. It is difficult to control the magnanimity and fierceness of such an attack when an earthquake comes. The recent earthquake example is in itself a testimony of how necessary it has become to be aware of some of the earthquake preventive measures. Below are the 10 major causes of earthquakes worldwide.
1. Seismic Waves
This is one of the major causes of an earthquake. There are several types of earthquake waves including primary waves and also secondary waves. However, Surface waves consist of several major types and are known as long waves. These waves then cause heavy disruption when they flow as they are affected by changes in the density and also the rigidity of the material through which they pass. Major examples of such an earthquake were in Assam, India (1897 and 1950).
2. Fault Lines and Crustal Stress
Fault lines are fractures in the Earth’s crust where earthquakes tend to occur. When stress builds up along these faults due to tectonic movements, the release of energy causes seismic waves.
There have been many examples of Earthquakes in Australia being caused because of the movements along faults. This could be a result of the compression in the Earth’s crust. You can determine the size or magnitude of earthquakes by measuring the actual amplitude of the seismic waves which get recorded on a seismograph.
3. Dams and reservoirs
This can be one of the major causes. The rupture in the million tons of water would have hastened the earth’s shaking. No geological process can come up with such a huge concentration of mass in such a small area except for a volcano. It is history which has proven how large reservoirs of water created by dams have caused earthquakes. Examples include Zambia to Greece to India.
Example: – 2008 Sichuan, China earthquake- killed nearly 70,000 people. It is believed that it was triggered by the construction of the Zipping Dam nearby.
4. Groundwater extraction
Taking water out of the ground is another example through which earthquakes have been necessarily initiated. The act causes the water table to drop thus destabilizing an existing fault. For example: – 2011 Lorca earthquake. This 2011 earthquake in Lorca, Spain caused a huge amount of destruction for its 5.1 magnitudes as was recorded on the Richter scale.
It was also because the epicentre of the mountain was located so close to the surface. Its shallow epicentre could have had a relationship with that the act of groundwater extraction near Lorca. Since 1960, water extraction has been one of the main reasons as to why the region’s water table dropped by an incredible 250 meters.
5. Big skyscrapers
Big skyscrapers and buildings can put immense pressure on the earth’s surface. It can cause the rudimentary rocks to even crack. As a study points out, Taipei 101’s especially huge mass of 770,000 tons is presently putting too much pressure on the soft sedimentary rock below. It comes because of the extra steel and concrete which is being used to make the skyscraper solid enough to withstand earthquakes.
Since construction began on the building of Taipei 101, the region began to receive several micro-earthquakes and even two larger earthquakes which went directly underneath the building.
6. Tectonic plate movements of the earth
The movement of tectonic plates is the primary cause of earthquakes. The Earth’s lithosphere is divided into several plates that float on the molten rock of the mantle. When these plates collide, pull apart, or slide past one another, stress builds up and is eventually released as an earthquake.
Tectonic Earthquakes are caused when the crust becomes subjected to strain and eventually starts moving. The theory of plate tectonics explains how when the crust of the Earth is made of several plates, there are large areas of crust which float on the Mantle. Since these plates are small and are free to slowly move, they undergo a lot of movement. Many of these earthquakes which we feel may be located in the areas where these plates could collide can even slide past each other.
Example: – Due to tectonic movements, San Francisco has noticed many small shakes.
7. Volcanic Eruptions Trigger Earthquakes
Volcanic activity can lead to localized earthquakes. As magma forces its way to the surface, it can cause the surrounding rock to crack and create seismic activity.
Volcanic earthquakes are much less likely than Tectonic ones. They are triggered when there is an explosion of an explosive volcano. It depends from volcano to volcano. If they are quiet, chances are less.
For example: – In the case of Mt Pele, the lava solidified before it flew down the sides of the volcano. At least 20 miles of the area around is affected when a volcano explodes. However, for a tectonic earthquake, effects may be felt around the globe.
8. Any disturbance on the surface
All earthquakes are majorly caused by disturbance of the outside crust on the ephemeral surface of the earth. Anything which will tend to destroy the perfect equilibrium or the balance of the globe will likely cause an earthquake. Each side and every part must necessarily carry the same weight. There is the perfect nature balance required which man spoils due to his removals of earth, ores, oil, rock, coal, and the building of cities, which is continually changing.
9. Subduction Zones
Subduction zones, where one tectonic plate is forced under another, are responsible for some of the most powerful earthquakes in history. These regions are known for producing large-magnitude earthquakes and tsunamis.
Earthquakes and Tsunamis: A Deadly Pair
Underwater earthquakes can trigger massive waves known as tsunamis. When tectonic plates beneath the ocean floor shift, they displace large amounts of water, leading to destructive waves.
10. Man-Made Earthquakes: Mining, Drilling, and Dams
Human activities like mining, deep-well injections, geothermal energy extraction, and the building of large dams can sometimes induce seismic activity. Hydraulic fracturing (fracking) has also been linked to minor earthquakes.
Geothermal power plants — Salton Sea Geothermal Field and The Geysers Geothermal Field
According to a 2011 study published, it was clear that researchers at the University of California had discovered that seismic activity had increased around the Salton Sea as geothermal field operations around the area had ramped up. While these earthquakes in themselves may not be the main cause of damage but the other interaction with bigger faults like San Andreas could be one. Earthquake swarms include bursts of dozens of small quakes prevailing below magnitude 6 or so—happen regularly along the Salton Sea. Examples of such an earthquake include: – Salton Sea Geothermal Field and The Geysers Geothermal Field
Tracking and injection wells — 2011 Oklahoma earthquake
The process of hydraulic fracturing, or fracking is not the main cause of earthquakes. It is when the waste fracking liquid is injected back underneath into the deep wells that causes rupture. The fluid caused due to the extraction of liquids can seep out and also lubricate faults. This can cause them to slip more easily. For example:- 2011 Oklahoma earthquake- A study pointed out that Seismic activity in Oklahoma has shot up along with the rise of fracking. Earthquake swarms have become a regular occurrence in the region. The number of earthquakes had shot up from a dozen in 2008 to over 1,000 in 2010.
The Environmental Effects of Earthquake
Earthquakes have a profound impact not only on human societies but also on the environment. These natural events cause significant changes to the Earth’s surface, ecosystems, and atmosphere. From triggering landslides and tsunamis to altering water bodies and releasing greenhouse gases, the environmental effects of earthquakes can be long-lasting and widespread.
Understanding these effects is essential in assessing the overall damage and preparing for the aftershocks that come not only in the form of tremors but also as environmental disruptions.
1. Surface Ruptures and Ground Shaking
One of the most immediate effects of an earthquake is the physical rupturing of the Earth’s surface. Fault lines crack open, and the ground may be uplifted or displaced. The intensity of ground shaking can cause widespread damage to ecosystems, destroying natural habitats and altering landforms.
2. Landslides
Earthquakes, especially in mountainous or hilly regions, often trigger landslides. The sudden shaking of the ground destabilizes loose soil and rocks, causing them to slide downhill. These landslides can bury forests, block rivers, and lead to the destruction of wildlife habitats.
3. Tsunamis
Underwater or near-shore earthquakes can displace large amounts of water, creating powerful tsunamis. These waves can travel across entire oceans, devastating coastal ecosystems and communities. Tsunamis often result in the salinization of freshwater sources, which harms both plant and animal life.
4. Liquefaction
In some areas, earthquakes cause a process known as liquefaction, where saturated soil temporarily loses its strength and behaves like a liquid. This phenomenon can lead to the sinking of buildings, destruction of infrastructure, and disruption of natural environments such as wetlands.
5. Changes to River Courses and Water Bodies
Earthquakes can alter the course of rivers, either by uplifting land or triggering landslides that block waterways. This can result in the formation of new lakes or the drying up of old ones, significantly impacting aquatic ecosystems. Flooding may also occur in areas previously unaffected.
6. Destruction of Vegetation and Wildlife
Earthquake-induced landslides, floods, and fires can devastate plant and animal life. Forests may be destroyed, and animals are often displaced from their habitats. In some cases, endangered species may lose their homes, putting their survival at further risk.
7. Release of Greenhouse Gases
Earthquakes can cause the release of gases trapped underground, such as methane and carbon dioxide. This can contribute to greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere, further exacerbating climate change. Moreover, ruptured gas lines during earthquakes can lead to fires, releasing additional pollutants.
8. Soil Degradation
The shaking of the ground can disturb the topsoil, making it more susceptible to erosion by wind and water. This degradation reduces the fertility of the land, negatively impacting agriculture and natural plant life.
9. Coastal Erosion
The powerful shaking and tsunamis resulting from earthquakes can lead to significant coastal erosion. Beaches may be swept away, and shoreline ecosystems like mangroves and coral reefs can be severely damaged or destroyed.
10. Long-term Environmental Impacts
The environmental effects of an earthquake can last for years or even decades. Ecosystems may take a long time to recover, and some habitats may never fully regenerate. Additionally, changes to the landscape, such as new lakes or rivers, can permanently alter regional environments.
The 1960 Valdivia earthquake is the most powerful earthquake ever recorded. This massive earthquake struck southern Chile, resulting in widespread destruction. It triggered tsunamis that affected countries as far away as Japan and the Philippines. Over 1,000 people lost their lives, and entire cities were leveled.
2. Prince William Sound, Alaska, USA (1964) – Magnitude 9.2
The Great Alaska Earthquake is the second most powerful earthquake in recorded history. The quake caused severe ground fissures, collapsing buildings, and tsunamis that killed 131 people. It also led to significant geological changes, including land elevations.
3. Sumatra, Indonesia (2004) – Magnitude 9.1
This undersea earthquake triggered the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami that claimed over 230,000 lives across 14 countries. Coastal communities in Indonesia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and India were decimated, making it one of the deadliest natural disasters in history.
4. Tohoku, Japan (2011) – Magnitude 9.1
The Tohoku earthquake resulted in massive tsunamis that caused the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster. Thousands of lives were lost, and the economic cost was estimated to be in the hundreds of billions of dollars, making it the costliest earthquake ever.
5. Kamchatka, Russia (1952) – Magnitude 9.0
The Kamchatka earthquake was a major event in the Soviet Union that triggered large tsunamis across the Pacific Ocean. Despite its strength, the region was sparsely populated, which minimized casualties. The resulting tsunamis caused damage as far away as Hawaii.
Conclusion
While earthquakes are a natural phenomenon, their impact on the environment is immense. From landslides to tsunamis and soil degradation, these effects can disrupt ecosystems and harm wildlife. Understanding these consequences is essential for developing strategies to mitigate the damage caused by such powerful natural events.
FAQs on Earthquake
Q. What is A Tsunami?
Ans. Underwater earthquakes can trigger massive waves known as tsunamis. When tectonic plates beneath the ocean floor shift, they displace large amounts of water, leading to destructive waves.
Q. What are Earthquake Swarms?
Ans. Earthquake swarms are sequences of seismic events that occur in a local area over a short period. They are different from aftershocks because there is no single main event. These swarms can occur due to volcanic activity or tectonic movements.
Q. What are Aftershocks?
Ans. After a large earthquake, smaller tremors, known as aftershocks, often follow. These can continue for days, weeks, or even years. They occur because the Earth’s crust is adjusting after the initial event.
Q. Can We Predict Earthquakes?
Ans. While exact predictions are not possible, scientists use various tools to study seismic activity and issue early warnings. These systems help save lives by providing a brief window of time to take protective measures.
Q. What are the meanings of magnitude and intensity related to earthquakes?
Ans. The magnitude of an earthquake refers to the energy released at its source, while intensity measures the strength of shaking at a particular location. The Richter Scale measures magnitude, while the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale measures intensity.
Rangoli is a folk art where the floor is used as a canvas for decorative designs. It is a type of folk art also called Kolam and Muggu. Rangoli is laid out on multiple occasions. It is prominent during Hindu festivals. They are laid out to display a welcoming disposition and to appease Hindu deities. This tradition has been passed on from generation to generation and will continue to do so.
The materials used for decoration are flour, flowers, and colored rice. The following are some of the salient points about Rangoli.
It is thought to bring good luck and fortune for the household.
It is laid out to welcome Gods and Goddesses.
Typically only women are involved in the decorative process
It can be laid out during auspicious ceremonies, and social events as well such as Independence Day, marriage functions, and birthdays.
Designs can range from geometric shapes to impressions of deities.
Rangoli – A purposeful decorative art
There is a purpose behind this art form. It is an integral part of religious and cultural beliefs. It is also part of a spiritual process. The process of laying out Rangoli designs is to combine spirituality with prosperity. Moreover it is a spiritual process that combines reverence to the unknown and also an intrinsic desire to celebrate the present. Rangoli symbolizes a hope and realization that the future is always in our control provided we submit ourselves to a spiritual process.
Why Rangoli?
This folk art is a platform for women to showcase their innate creative talents. It can be considered as a cathartic opportunity to bring out latent artistic talents in colorful expositions. The design process is generally collaborative. Therefore, it is an opportunity for many people to come together and put their collective thinking in action. There are no age, language, and cultural barriers to this. Many ascribe this art form to have therapeutic benefits. Laying out the designs and decorating them provides relief to the mind and joy to the soul. There is a meditative element aspect to this.
Rangoli acts as an outlet to relieve you from your everyday stress. It is a creative process that stimulates the optimistic side in you.
Being temporary, the designs can be changed every day. This makes it even more fun.
Is a safe and elegant art form.
Religious significance of Rangoli
The Goddess of Wealth – Lakshmi is believed to be attracted to Rangoli. Therefore households have this decorative art to invite this Goddess to visit their homes and bless the inmates. The presence and visit of this goddess is understood to provide good luck and fortune. This is the sole reason for laying out this design. But there could be associated beliefs that vary from person to person.
Rangoli is practiced in almost all parts of the country. It is prominent in Bengal, Bihar, Rajasthan, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh.
The Rajputana Pride refers to the Rajput clan. The Rajputs were direct descendants of many patrilineal groups. The Rajputs were traditionally involved in skilled warfare and were therefore considered a warrior group. This clan claimed supreme status and recognition all throughout India’s history. It rose in stature and prominence between the 9th and 12th century. Currently, the Rajputs are found in majority in the states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh.
The Origin of the Rajputana Pride
The origins of this clan are a matter of debate. Much has been said and written about this but nothing has been confirmed. Historians claim that the Rajputs were a social group. Another school of thought is that Hephthalites invaded India and integrated into the society, thus culminating in a new type of people with warrior instincts.
The top brass of the Hephthalites group were integrated into the Kshatriya group of the Hindu system. Rajput was sometimes used as a rank to designate people involved in combat. It is only during the course of time that it became a caste. For instance, some tribe groups were ranked as Rajputs. They are namely Bundelas and Rathors.
The Rajput clans
Even though the Rajputana pride was a clan by itself, it was further divided into clans. The following are those:
Suryavanshi – The people belonging to this clan considered themselves to be descendants of the Sun God – Surya. Therefore, the Suryavanshi clan was also called the Solar Dynasty.
Chandravanshi – Known as the Lunar Dynasty, the people belonging to this clan considered themselves to be descendants of the Moon or Chandra.
Agnivanshi – This clan attributed its lineage to the Hind God of fire namely Agni.
The Rajput Empire
It was during the medieval period that the first Rajput Empire flourished. King Harsha ruled this empire for a period of forty seven years. After his death, the kingdom disintegrated and divided into multiple kingdoms. During the 8th century, the Gahlot Dynasty was initiated in Chittoor by Bappa Rawal. The Malwa dynasty was also a prominent one in history established during the 9th century by Pratiharas.
Rajputs during the Muslim regime in India
The Mongols, Turks, and Afghans constantly invaded the length and breadth of the country. The Rajputs bore the brunt of wars and conflict. The kingdom ruled by Pratiharas weakened during the 11th century. The Hindu Shahi kingdom fell to Mahmud of Ghazni. This event was significant given that many Muslim rulers went on and established their presence in pre-independence India. Shortly Rajput chiefs were hired by Mughal rulers for administrative jobs.
Rajputs during the British regime
The Rajputs had control over 15 states out of 18 in the Rajputana region. These 15 states entered into an agreement with the British East India Company. Under this alliance, these states were given princely status.
Rajputs after India’s independence from the British
Rajputs are still found in large numbers in many North Indian states. They are occupied in various professions that include the military, navy, and air force. The palaces of Rajput kings are now places of tourist interest.
Passion is the secret to success. Passion is the drive that propels you forward to take on more challenges and achieve your dreams. There are many examples of people around us who have realized their dreams through their passion. But it is also important to understand that passion alone won’t ensure you success. Determination and hard work will complete your quest for success.
Follow your passion and you will meet success. It may seem a quirky idea but life is all about risks. There are many people who quit their high paying jobs and settle down at a smaller pay package to follow their passion. Be it photography, interior designing or even gardening, your passion can make you a successful person if you are focused and hardworking.
It is important that while choosing a career you think over and decide the field you are most passionate about. The idea is to make your work enjoyable. People who enjoy the work are most successful.
Most people choose a safe route for themselves when it comes to selecting a career line. Engineering, medicine etc are the most commonly chosen subjects by hundreds of students passing out of schools every year.
There is huge competition among students to get into leading engineering and medical colleges. It is believed in our country that becoming an engineer or a doctor after a few years of study will ensure a lifetime of success, happiness and prosperity.
However, the truth only comes face to face after they start working in a professional environment. Their expectations fall flat when faced with the ordeals of professional life. Most people either switch jobs to escape from the troubles they face at work not realizing that it is not the work atmosphere that is bothering them; it is the job profile itself.
Unconventional career paths such as photography, mass media, interior decoration etc aren’t given much priority in our country because it takes time for an individual to establish himself and make it a lucrative career.
For this reason, most people choose conventional careers and pursue their passions in their leisure time. However, if you could make your passion your career, nothing can stand between you and success.
Focus on what you want to do in your life. Since you will be investing a lot many years into your job, it is best that you make the right start.
