Guntur Local Guide | Food, Shopping & City Life

The respect and regard paid to cows in India is well known, but the importance to rural Indians of the dung and urine of this sacred animal is often ignored. This presentation will describe the many indigenous uses of cow dung and urine as a resource in rural India. Cow dung is used as a cooking fuel; sanitizing cleanser; construction material, insulation, and waterproofing for walls and floors in rural houses; a cultural symbol in religious worship; the raw-material for producing organic compost and generating electricity. The urine of cows is considered an elixir of life and is used as a natural remedy for liver and heart conditions as well as for enhancing mental and physical strength and increasing longevity. The urine of a cow is said to balance bile, mucous, and airs, which cause disease when they are not in balance. The utilization of cow dung and urine is a perfect example of sustainable living. An understanding of the use of cow dung and urine by the rural Indian populat...

Raksha Bandhan, meaning "Knot of Protection" is one of the most important festivals celebrated by Hindus throughout the world. The festival stands for the beautiful relationship shared between brothers and sisters. A lifelong promise of protection is made on this special occasion. It exhibits the beautiful relationship of love, care and affection between siblings. History Raksha Bandhan, also called Rakhi Purnima or just Rakhi, has deep rooted historical significance. There are various stories linked with the past mythology of the hindu religion. People believe and follow different stories from the past. The most famous and relied upon story of them all is that of Rani Karnavati of Chittor and the Mughal Emperor Humayun. Rani Karnawati was the widowed queen of Chittor, which had been attacked by Bahadur Shah, Sultan of Gujarat. The queen realized that defending her empire from the invasion was not possible for her and in lieu of protection and help, she sent a Rakhi to t...