Encyclopaedia on India

The festival of Lossar , celebrated as the Tibetan New Year, is one of the most cherished cultural and spiritual occasions among Tibetans and Buddhist communities across the Himalayan belt. Observed with grandeur in regions such as Ladakh, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh Lahaul , it signifies not only the transition of seasons but also a profound renewal of faith, identity, and communal harmony. Origins of Lossar The roots of Lossar trace back to Tibet’s pre-Buddhist Bon traditions, where winter rituals were performed to appease local deities through incense offerings. Over time, these practices merged with Buddhist philosophy, giving rise to the structured festival celebrated today. King Pude Gungyal : Tibet’s ninth king is credited with formalizing the festival. Belma’s lunar calendar : A legend attributes its origin to an old woman who introduced lunar time measurement during apricot blossom season in Tibet’s Lhokha Yarla Shampo ...

Introduction Among the most distinguished rulers of the 7th century, Harshavardhana stands as a towering figure in Indian history. His reign marked a crucial transition from the ancient to the medieval era, a time when regional kingdoms vied for supremacy after the decline of the Gupta Empire. Belonging to the Pushyabhuti (Vardhana) dynasty, Harsha rose to prominence in northern India and established a vast dominion. Though born into a Hindu household, he later embraced Buddhism, becoming a celebrated patron of Buddhist learning and culture. His rule is remembered not only for military campaigns but also for administrative reforms, cultural patronage, and his efforts to unify diverse regions under a single authority. Ascension of Harshavardhana Harsha was born around 590 CE to King Prabhakaravardhana of Thanesar. His early life was marked by tragedy and political upheaval. After the untimely death of his elder brother Rajyavardhana, who was treacherously killed by Shashanka of Ga...