Schools of Indian Philosophy – An Overview

Indian philosophy is generally categorized into six schools – Yoga, Sankhya, Vedanta, Vaisheshika, Nyaya and Mimamsa. However, dive deeply and you will find several others. Madhava’s Sarvadarsanasaṃgraha (Survey of the Major Philosophical Systems) discusses sixteen philosophical schools. Among these are schools at odds with the conventional Hindu philosophy – Buddhism, Jainism and materialism.

Yoga deals with practical methods for direct experience. The school deals at all levels of one’s being, focusing on experiencing the eternal center of consciousness. Best described in the Yoga Sutras, the school involves systematic witnessing of your inner states, so that you transcend beyond them. Central doctrine of Yoga philosophy is that nothing exists beyond the consciousness of mind, which is the ultimate reality.

Samkhya, the oldest of the philosophical systems, is a dualistic philosophy believing in the coexistent and interdependent realities – Purusha and Prakrti. Purusha which is ever pure, wise and free becomes subject to pain and pleasure when it associates with Prakrti, material cause of the universe and composed of three gunas – satva, rajas and tamas, which correspond to light, activity and inertia respectively.

Vedanta school stresses on contemplative self-inquiry, leading to the realization of one’s true nature, which is not subject to death, decay or decomposition. The Upanishads best convey the teachings of Vedanta. Vedanta itself can be sub-categorized into various schools like Advaita (nondualistic); Dvaita (dualistic), Dvaitadvaita (dualistic and non- dualistic), Visuddhadvaita (pure non-dualism) and Visistadvaita (qualifies nondualism). Of these schools Sankara’s Advaita and Ramanuja’s Visistadvaita have had more followers.

Vaisheshika emphasizes the physical sciences exploring the elements of earth, water, fire, air and space, as well as time, mind and soul. The philosophy postulates that all objects are reducible to a finite number of atoms. It explains the nature of world with these categories – dravya (substance), guna (quality), karma (action), samanya (universal), vishesha (particular), amavaya (inherence) and abhava (non-existence).

School of Nyaya deals with logic, the process of reasoning. All other schools of thought use this system of logic, in whole or in part, as a foundation for philosophical reasoning and debate. Followers of Nyaya ideology believe that obtaining knowledge is the only way to obtain release from suffering.

Mimamsa pursues freedom through action. It accepts Vedas as the final authority on all questions, laying emphasis on rituals, worship and ethical conduct. It rationally investigates the Vedas, offering guidelines for application of Vedantic theory.

Advent of Buddhism and Jainism added a new dimension to Indian line of thought. Earlier Buddhism avoided speculated cogitation on metaphysics, phenomenology, ethics and epistemology. It was instead on empirical evidence gained by the sense organs.

Jain philosophy believes that the universe is without a beginning and without an end. The whole universe is self-regulated and karma plays an important role in its organization. It is karma which provides the basis for the path of liberation.

It may be hard for the commoners to comprehend these philosophies by word, but at the least, they can use the objects associated with them and get spiritually enriched. Yantras, sculptures and paintings like Om Mani Padme Hum provide you spiritual solace although you may not well versed with the school of thought.

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Author of this article is associated with Exotic India, a Namaste to Indian school of philosophy and spiritualism. They sell textiles, sculptures, jewelry, beads, paintings, books, etc.

Kashmiri Pashmina Shawls: Exquisitely Crafted for Elegance and Style

Kashmir is known for its natural beauty and wonderful arts and culture. It is also known for its stunning Pashmina clothing accessories such as scarves, wraps, stoles or shawls. Pashmina fabric includes 100 percent pure Pashmina. Other types of shawls include 80% Pashmina and 20% silk blend. The 70/30 blend is also commonly used in some cases. Infusion of silk into the Pashmina makes it softer and shinier. Pashmina shawls are any ways known for their fleecy softness and amazing warmth. It was during the mid 1990s that Pashmina shawls became highly prized so the demand exceeded supply. But while Pashmina shawls rose into prominence during this period, they have now become an eternal style statement.

Cashmere used for Pashmina is made from the finest quality. Pure Pashmina as well as Pashmina blended with silk creates the perfect look for any formal or informal occasion. Pashmina and silk scarves, shawls and stoles are beautifully crafted, finished, appraised and delivered to your doorstep if you choose a good online retail store. Pashmina is sourced from the Himalayan slopes from the Capra Hircus goat. The cashmere used for making Pashmina is soft and luxurious. The Kashmir valley is known all over the world for its shawls. These shawls include not only the Pashmina but also the shahtoosh and the wool. Based on the kind of fabrics used, these shawls offer different types of advantages.

While Kashmiri woolen shawls are the most affordable and Shahtoosh shawls are extremely expensive, the Pashmina falls in between the two in terms of cost. Pashmina shawls from Kashmir have beautiful embroidery work on them and they are one of the most well known items sold in this state. Pashmina shawls have certain exquisite embroidery including Sozni, Papier-mâche and Aari. Sozni embroidery involves the use of needle and thread to create beautiful patterns on the sides of the shawls. The motifs used for the embroidery include abstract designs and stylized Paisleys and flowers in colorful and attractive patterns. Papier-mâche involve the use of needlework on broad panels on either side of the shawl or across its entire surface. The flower and leaf motifs on this type of Pashmina shawl is outlined in black. Ari is a hook type embroidery which uses flowers as motifs. In fact, an overriding feature of all Pashmina shawls is that they generally have flower motifs. The beauty of a Pashmina shawl cannot be denied.

The look of these Pashmina shawls is so enticing that customers will be amazed by the sheer variety offered at online (http://quartsoft.com/blog/201303/top-online-shopping-benefits) retail stores. Pashmina shawls, stoles and scarves are a once in a lifetime acquisition. They also make for the perfect gifts for birthdays and wedding anniversaries. A Pashmina shawl is also a very thoughtful gift especially during the winter time. Light Pashmina silk stoles and scarves also make for the perfect style statement. These accessories can be used alongside Indian as well as Western wear. Pashmina shawls can also be paired with everything from coats and jeans to silk saris. Choose and buy Pashmina shawls online for attaining a look that breathes refinement and elegance.

Home Décor and Handicrafts – A Perfect Mix of Art and Intrigue

Decorating your home with handicrafts is not something new or unheard of. In fact, it is a very popular method of enthusing some intricate art forms into your home décor. India is a country, rich in cultural heritage and art forms found in every nook and cranny. These art forms are not only traditional but have been passed off from one generation to the next through careful process of induction. The creativity of craftsmen has stayed within families for decades and continues to amaze the world with its finesse and beauty [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crafts_of_India].

This is why many people in India and abroad are looking to incorporate these traditional art forms such as thangka [http://www.exoticindiaart.com/paintings/] in their décor. This way, they not only create a unique focal point in their rooms but also give this intricate form a well deserved due.

Here are some ways you can bring the beauty of Indian art and intricacy of its culture into your homes.

  • Brass is one of the most commonly found handicraft material in India. From vintage lanterns to ornate statues, there is nothing these talented craftsmen cannot make. There are all kinds of showpieces such as vases, lamps, boxes etc. that can be used as centrepieces or gift items.
  • Jute is also becoming increasingly popular not just in India but also all over the world. Its eco-friendliness and lightweight makes it highly desirable in international markets. They can be transformed into shopping bags, rugs, lamps, stationary and many other things that can beautifully grace your décor theme. They are so versatile and easy to maintain that they become one of the best accessories for home owners.
  • Clay handicrafts go as far as one can remember the Indian history. They can serve as beautiful, exotic utensils or some contemporary form of art. It depends how you want to use clay in your home décor. Due to its simplicity and minimalism, they can be easily fitted in all kinds of home décor situations. 
  • Wooden handicrafts in India are popular all over the world. The furniture, toys, household goods and decorative pieces are being exported heavily to all western markets. Since wood is also an essential element of décor, they also become an essential part of any decorative theme. You can add distressed wood for a vintage style or carved one for a traditional home. You can also use neatly crafted wooden items all over your house to bind the décor theme together.
  • Marble and marble inlay work has been marvelled by the world since the time Shahjahan built Taj Mahal. The work and intricacy of this art is not only demanded but respected by people all over the globe. You an easily create a point of interest in a simple room by adding a marble inlay work table.

There isn’t a handicraft in India that will not be able to fulfil your home décor needs manifold.

Redefine Your Style Quotient With Exquisite Collection of Indian earrings

As the saying goes, ‘The difference between style and fashion is quality’, so it is very important that you remain aware of quality items which can help glam up your look. Fashion trends keep varying based on season or occasion whereas if you can create your own signature style then that becomes immortal. It’s not about investing in expensive items or going on a shopping spree everyday to stack up your wardrobe with the latest items. It’s mainly about developing your own taste for quality items which can help you stand apart from the crowd.

 In a country like India where style has an ethnic root, one can find dresses and accessories drawing inspiration from historic eras. It’s interesting to note that the Mughals or Rajputs remained successful in leaving an indelible mark on India’s fashion landscape whose impact can be felt even till now. Take a look at present day accessories and you might see an antique touch in many of them. Be it a bejewelled broach or chandelier earning, the piece can create a stunning effect on any woman!

Now shift your attention towards the contemporary collection of Indian earrings and one can find every piece is an exquisite blend of tradition and modernity. If the Victorian tortoiseshell pique drop earrings look stunning with everyday attire then the fine enamelled gold earring with multiple large gemstones, pearls and premium beads would make you look gorgeous on weddings or special occasions.

The charm of Indian earnings lies in their vivacity and flexibility. You can create your own exclusive collection of Indian earrings (http://www.exoticindiaart.com/jewelry/Earrings/) which matches every occasion and dress code. If it is for office, college or daily wear, then you can pick up stone top earning, sterling silver danglers, fine silver gemstone studs, red/blue/green gemstone silver earring, old style chandelier earnings, gold plated white moonstone earning, hoop earning, antique kundan piece, stylish Peridot silver gemstone earring and many more.

However if the occasion is as special as a wedding, sangeet, marriage anniversary or party then you need to explore the gemstone embellished gorgeous collection of Indian earrings (http://www.forbes.com/sites/katherinepalmiter/2015/03/05/vintage-indian-jewelry-red-carpet-style/). A look at the collection and you will be surely charmed by their beautifully designs accentuated by colourful stones, studded diamantes, bright beads, kundans, crystals, polki stones, glass drops and mina work.

Colour combinations are available in every hue like sweet pink, grandiose green, magenta, electric blue, sensuous purple, or elegant off white so that you don’t have problem picking up the earning exactly matching your attire. Thus it can be deducted that the entire process of exploring the collection of Indian earrings is indeed a pleasurable one.

You can either start window shopping at brick-and-mortar shops or take some time out to explore online (http://www.w3.org/) stores. Set up your selection criteria by mentioning occasion, budget, stone and design preferences. The site will do the rest by producing lovely collection of earnings, from which picking up the best might turn out to be a tough task!

So it’s time to fuel up your passion for ethnic or modern Indian jewelleries with some distinct eye-catching collections. You will love it and so will be your admirers!

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If you are looking to get Indian gold jewellery online (http://www.exoticindiaart.com/jewelry/Gold/), the author of this article recommends Exotic India.

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