Encyclopaedia on India

Games have always been woven into the fabric of Indian culture, serving as more than just entertainment. They embody community spirit, physical activity, and shared laughter. Among the many traditional pastimes, Maram Pitti also known as Picchi Banti in Telugu stands out as a lively and engaging game that continues to capture the essence of childhood across generations. Often described as the Indian version of dodgeball , it remains a cherished activity in villages, towns, and festive gatherings. Etymology of Maram Pitti The name itself reflects the playful chaos of the game. In Tamil, Maram means “to hit” and Pitti means “to strike.” In Telugu, Picchi translates to “mad” and Banti means “ball.” Together, these terms capture the spirited energy of chasing, dodging, and striking with a ball. The Linguistic Roots Highlight how deeply the game is embedded in South Indian culture, making it not just a pastime but a cultural marker. Method of Playing Maram Pitti is simple, requir...

The reign of Chikka Devaraja Wodeyar II (1673–1704) marked a transformative era in the religious and cultural history of Mysore. His rule was distinguished by the consolidation of Vaishnavism as the royal faith, while simultaneously allowing other traditions such as Jainism to thrive. This duality reflected both the king’s personal devotion and his pragmatic approach to governance in a diverse kingdom. Consolidation of Vaishnavism Chikka Devaraja Wodeyar II was deeply committed to the Vaisnava tradition, which became the spiritual backbone of Mysore’s royal dynasty during his reign. Centres like Melkote and Seringapatam emerged as prominent strongholds of Vaisnava practice, attracting scholars, devotees, and temple builders. These hubs not only reinforced the religious identity of the dynasty but also became cultural centres where art, music, and literature flourished under royal patronage. One of his earliest acts of devotion was the construction of a temple dedicated to Lord Pa...

Introduction Pudukkottai district in Tamil Nadu is home to a variety of religious, cultural, and historical sites that attract visitors from across the region. Among these, Avur stands out for its churches and unique traditions, while nearby places such as Kumaramalai, Kattubava Pallivasal, Vendanpatti, and Aranthangi add to the district’s diverse tourism appeal. Together, these destinations showcase the rich heritage and spiritual harmony of Pudukkottai. Avur Located 28 km from Pudukkottai, Avur is Famous for its Roman Catholic Churches . The old chapel was built in 1547 A.D. by Fr. John Venatius Bachet, while the new church was constructed in 1747 A.D. Avur is particularly renowned for its Easter Passion Play, followed by a summer car festival that draws thousands of people from different faiths. This tradition highlights the inclusive and communal spirit of the region. Kumaramalai Situated about 10 km from Pudukkottai, Kumaramalai is a temple dedicated to Lord Muruga. Buil...