Sampadkiye : Shakti : Alekh : Ashok Karan.

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Joining Social Media Site Page with only the Fundamental Rights & Duties under Right  to Expression

for the patriotic theme Sare Jahan Se Achchha Hindustan Hamara.

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Ashok Karan. 

Ex.Hindustan Times Staff Photographer.

Photo Editor : Public Agenda. New Delhi.

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Cover Page : 0

Contents Page :  1

Editorial Page :  2

Photos Page : 3

You Said It : 4.

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Editorial : English : Writeups : 3

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The Curious Bulbul : A Captivating Encounter : Writeups : 3 /1

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a curious looking Bulbul. in the Picture

photo : Ashok Karan.

While wandering with my camera fitted with a long zoom lens, I suddenly noticed a tiny bulbul curiously gazing at me. Its feathers glowed under the backlit sun, making for a perfect shot. Intrigued by its curious expression, I quickly aimed my lens and captured a moment that I later named "Curious Bird."
Photographing tiny birds like bulbuls is no small feat—they’re incredibly active, frequently hopping from one spot to another. Capturing their fleeting moments requires patience and agility.
The Diverse Habitats of Bulbuls : Bulbuls are found in a wide range of habitats, including forests, gardens, and scrublands. Depending on the species, their homes vary :
Himalayan Bulbul : Found in the Himalayan region, these birds thrive in shrubs, gardens, hilly slopes, and natural forests.
Red-Vented Bulbul : Inhabits drier deciduous woodlands, sparse secondary forests, scrubs, orchards, and gardens.
Common Bulbul : Found in woodlands, coastal bush, forest edges, riverine bushes, gardens, and parks.
Sooty-Headed Bulbul : Found in Southeast Asia’s subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
Other habitats include dense forests, open scrublands, arid savannas, forest edges, cultivated lands, large cities, and more. The bulbul family is widespread across tropical Asia, from Pakistan and India to southern China.
Behavior and Social Life : Bulbuls are highly social birds, often chattering during the mornings and evenings. Their chatter serves as a communication tool—alerting one another to predators and calling out to their partners.
They are meticulous in preening to keep their feathers clean and in good condition. Bulbuls are intelligent problem-solvers, often recognized for their ability to adapt and defend themselves by appearing larger and more intimidating. Some even chatter in their sleep—a protective adaptation that signals wakefulness to potential predators.
Bulbuls’ diets include fruits, seeds, nectar, insects, and small invertebrates. While African species tend to reside in rainforests, their Asian counterparts prefer open spaces.
Cultural Significance : In many cultures, bulbuls are considered symbols of good fortune, love, beauty, and music. Their melodious songs, often likened to soulful music, are celebrated in Persian and Urdu poetry as symbols of romance. Some even believe that a bulbul nest at the entrance of a home is a sign of new beginnings and prosperity.
Closing Thoughts : Capturing the essence of a curious bulbul through photography is not just about skill—it’s about being present in the moment. These birds, with their charm and vibrant spirit, bring nature’s beauty to life.

Text and Photo by: Ashok Karan
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Ashokkaran.blogspot.com

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Pipli Applique : Editorial : English : Writeups : 3 /0

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Pipli Applique : Editorial : Writeups : 3 /0

Ashok Karan. 

July 30, 2024

Pipli Applique: A Dazzling Discovery in Odisha (#OdishaTourism #PipliApplique)

Have you ever stumbled upon a hidden gem while traveling? That's exactly what happened to me on a assignment in Odisha. My train back to Ranchi wasn't until late, so I was relaxing when my phone buzzed – it was the boss! He needed a story for the magazine. With a quick change of plans, I decided to explore Konark, a famous Sun Temple about 60 kilometers from Bhubaneswar.

On the way, I spotted a sign for Pipli, a village just 26 kilometers from Bhubaneswar (and about 40 kilometers from Konark). Curiosity piqued, I made a detour. Little did I know, I was about to discover a dazzling art form – Pipli Applique!

Pipli's history is intertwined with the worship of Lord Jagannath. As far back as the 12th century, the Gajapati kings commissioned colorful applique canopies, umbrellas, lanterns, and decorations for the annual Rath Yatra festival.

This vibrant craft involves teamwork between men and women. Men meticulously cut out intricate shapes, while women stitch them onto base fabrics. The results are stunning – wall hangings, umbrellas, and other items adorned with elephants, peacocks, flowers like lotus and jasmine, and even modern motifs. These artworks, also known as Chandua, come in all shapes and sizes – from purses and bags to clothing and carpets.

Pipli Applique wasn't always a tourist attraction. Originally, it was a temple art form patronized by royalty. Today, skilled artisans continue to create beautiful, large-scale decorative pieces, while also adapting their craft to create smaller, more affordable souvenirs.

Tourists visiting Odisha often stop by Pipli, captivated by the vibrant displays of lanterns, magnets, pens, and other trinkets made from bamboo, alongside exquisitely crafted jewelry boxes, key chains, and frames. The prices are friendly, making these souvenirs perfect keepsakes to remember your trip.

So, next time you're in Odisha, don't miss the chance to explore Pipli and witness the artistry of its talented craftspeople. Their creations are a testament to a rich tradition, and a delightful addition to any traveler's collection.

Pictures details—

1.Artesian at work.

2.Artistic Pipli products.

3.Huge umbrella on display

4.Pipli products shown by the shopkeeper.

5.Pipli colorful products on sale.

Text and Photos by Ashok Karan,

Column Editor : Dr. Madhup Sunita Seema Shakti Priya.

Page Decorative : Shakti : Manjita Anita Anubhuti.