Is there someone special in your life who values moments of relaxation and self-care, cherishing those tiny rituals that nourish their soul? If your answer is yes, then they definitely fall into the category of a Self Care Enthusiasts. Because they have understood importance of taking time for themselves amidst their  life's hustle & bustle, prioritizing their mental, emotional, & physical well-being. If their special day is coming and you are on hunt for the perfect gift to honor their commitment to self-care, look no further than practical copper gifts that combine elegance with functionality. From hydration aids to mindfulness tools, these copper made products are sure to delight your loved ones.

 

Copper Gifts Ideas for Self-Care Lovers

1. Copper Water Bottle:

Not only will copper add a touch of elegance to their hydration routine, but it will also offer several health benefits. Copper is known for some antimicrobial properties, which can help keep the water clean throughout the day. Also the durability of copper means your water bottle will last for years to come, which means it is a sustainable choice.

2. Tibetan Singing Bowl:

If they are into meditation and calming their mind after a long day then nothing could be a better choice than a Tibetan singing bowl - made from copper. These musical bowls have been used for centuries in meditation practices, because they produce soothing sounds that help calm our mind & promote relaxation. Using these bowls is also easy. They will simply need to strike the bowl or run the mallet along its rim to experience its therapeutic vibrations.

3. Copper Essential Oil Burner:

Essential oils are also useful for relaxing the mind, and since copper has so many benefits, a copper essential oil burner provides the perfect way to enjoy the soothing scents while harnessing the antimicrobial properties of copper. Whether they need some relief from stress, or an energy boost at end of the day, an essential oil burner will enhance their self-care rituals and promote a sense of well-being. 

4. Copper Straw Set:

When it comes to self-care, people have been trying to practice sustainability in various areas of their lives because they are becoming more mindful of their impact on the environment. So, if you're looking for a thoughtful gift for a friend who values both style and sustainability, a copper straw set is an excellent choice. Not only does it add a touch of elegance to their beverage experience, but it also helps reduce single-use plastic waste, allowing them to sip sustainably with every drink.

5. Copper Tongue Scraper:

Looking for a thoughtful gift to kickstart someone's day with freshness and wellness? Consider gifting them a copper tongue scraper. This ancient Ayurvedic tool promotes oral hygiene and overall well-being by gently removing toxins and bacteria from the tongue. Crafted from pure copper, this scraper is not only easy to use but also provides an effective way to enhance their self-care routine, leaving them feeling rejuvenated and ready to tackle the day ahead.

6. Kansa Facial Roller:

Treat your loved one to a luxurious self-care experience with a Kansa facial roller crafted from copper and other metals. This Ayurvedic skincare tool is perfect for reducing puffiness, stimulating circulation, and promoting lymphatic drainage, leaving their skin radiant and glowing. Simply rolling the smooth, cool surface of the roller over their face and neck will release tension, rejuvenate their skin, and enhance their natural beauty. 

These copper gift items in their self-care routine will surely help them prioritize their well-being and embrace a holistic approach to health and happiness. Whether they're starting their day with a refreshing sip of water from a copper bottle or winding down with a calming meditation session on a Sri Yantra mat, these simple yet meaningful gifts will inspire them to nurture themselves with love and intention.

Before the advent of modern science, there is evidence that humans had discovered a quality in certain metals that destroyed germs. Ancient archeological sites have unearthed vessels that were used to purify water made out of Copper or Silver.

Modern science terms this as the Oligodynamic Effect .

Understanding the Oligodynamic Effect:

The oligodynamic effect is simply a term that describes the ability of some metals, such as silver, copper, and zinc, to stop the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, as well as fungi. This effect also works at very low concentration of that particular metal. Well why does it occur? Simply because these metals have natural ability to disrupt cellular functions of these microorganisms, and hence they prevent their spread.

In other words - the oligodynamic effect means that tiny amounts of certain metals can stop germs from growing and spreading. This is important for keeping us safe from harmful microbes in various settings, such as medicine, water treatment, and food preservation.

The Power of Copper:

When it comes to metals with oligodynamic effect - copper stands out as a particularly powerful one, simply because it has the ability to destroy almost all kinds of pathogens in very less time. Our ancestors already knew about this effect & that’s why they used to have copper water vessels for their daily needs. Moreover, modern science has also accepted that copper is one of the best materials for its oligodynamic effect, therefore it had been used during the recent pandemic to stop spread of COVID-19.

Moreover, hospitals and healthcare centers are now opting to replace surface materials like bed rails and tabletops with copper due to the prevalence of Hospital-Acquired Infections (HAIs). This strategic change is prompted by the recognition that many individuals contract illnesses after entering hospital environments. 

Health Benefits:

Various studies have proved that drinking water from a copper utensil helps you to boost digestion, strengthen your immune system, and even soothe any sort of inflammation.

Environmental Friendliness:

When thinking about keeping germs away, we often tend to worry about the harm those chemical disinfectants can cause to the Earth. But, copper vessels are different. These are not just kind to our planet Earth - but also last a really long time & can be used over & over again.In fact 70% of the copper ever mined is still in use.

How to Include Copper to Your Life?

Water Storage and Dispensing:

Copper water vessels for storing and dispensing water have been used for centuries in many countries. This oligodynamic effect of copper ensures that water remains free from microbial contamination, promoting better health & well-being.

Kitchen Sinks

If you want to make your kitchen aesthetically pleasing, you can incorporate copper copper sink. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, these sinks are going to provide you with various benefits. Its oligodynamic properties will help inhibit the growth of bacteria and other pathogens on the copper sink surface, promoting a cleaner and healthier environment for food preparation. Another reason to invest in them is their durability and resistance to corrosion which will ensure longevity and minimal maintenance requirements.

Copper Bathtubs

Beyond its luxurious appearance, a copper bathtub in your bathroom will give health benefits too, it will prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria and fungi, promote better hygiene and reduce the risk of skin infections.

Wrap Up:

In the fight against germs the advantage of copper’s oligodynamic effect is highly promising. By using copper utensils in your everyday life, you will actually do a great thing for your health as well as making your surroundings cleaner and safer for the generations to come. So get your copper water vessel and other utensils today!

In the modern evolving world, where our focus on health & environmental-friendliness has been getting stronger day by day, a silent yet powerful revolution is underway. Copper water vessels are quietly replacing plastic as the preferred choice for many people. This choice isn't merely a nod to the ayurvedic teachings; it is supported by science and a growing awareness of the negative impact of plastic on both human health and environment. If you have still not decided what material should replace your plastic bottles then this post is for you where you will get to know why copper vessels should be a staple in your kitchen.

The Environmental Toll of Plastic

Plastic pollution has reached an alarming high, creating a huge problem for ecosystems all over the world. It's not just about the unsightly litter; it's about the waterways getting choked up and marine creatures facing dire threats. 

According to a report 170+ trillion plastic particles were found in the ocean. This is a huge concern for the well-being of marine life and the overall health of our ecosystems. And if that's not troubling enough, consider how long plastic sticks around - centuries, maybe even millennia! This means the damage being done today could affect countless future generations.

Health Risks Associated with Plastic

When you think about the damage plastic does to our surroundings, it's just the start. There's also a big worry about how it affects everyone's health. Plastics are often made with some chemicals, like bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates. These can leach into the food and drinks, more so if they're kept in hot places or with something sour. Health issues linked to these chemicals are pretty serious – interfering with hormones, causing problems with having children, and even raising the chances of getting certain kinds of cancer.

Advantages of Copper Vessels Over Plastic

Antimicrobial Properties

Copper is not just something that looks pretty or conducts electricity well. Unlike plastic, which just sits there, copper brings its own benefits such as fighting against germs. For hundreds of years people have been using copper to keep things clean. And today, even science has found that copper is one of the best materials for fighting against bacteria and germs. Few examples include: E. coli, MRSA, and norovirus. 

Long-Lasting

These vessels don't just fight off bacteria; they're also incredibly tough and can last a really long time. This is great news in a world where single-use plastic is piling up everywhere, causing a massive headache for Mother Earth. Choosing a copper water bottle over plastic is like choosing a sturdy shield over a flimsy one in a battle against waste.

Heat Conduction

Ever noticed how some containers keep things hot or cold for what seems like magic? Well, copper vessels also fall in this category. They're good at conducting heat, which means tea or cold drinks stay just the way one likes them for much longer, without any extra effort or energy wasted. It's like having a personal temperature keeper for beverages.

Aesthetics

Last but not least, these vessels aren't just about function. They bring an element of grace and class to kitchens and dining tables, making them look more inviting and stylish. It's like adding a piece of timeless art that also serves a practical purpose, enhancing the visual delight of any space they're in.

 

Scientific Evidence Supporting Copper's Effectiveness

Many researches have proved copper's power in stopping the spread of germs and lessening the amount of microbes in different places. For example, a study showed that when hospital rooms had copper surfaces, there were far fewer infections from healthcare than with usual surfaces. 

Another research article states that when placed in healthcare settings that people touch a lot were changed to copper, there was a significant drop in germs. This really shows how much copper can help in fighting against the spread of diseases. 

Embracing a Sustainable Future

When you think about a greener tomorrow, choosing copper vessels over those made of plastic is a smart move. Not just for the sake of your health, but also for the sake of our beautiful Earth. It's like saying no to the things that hurt our planet and yes to what keeps it safe and sound for the kids who'll call it home someday. 

Conclusion

Wrapping this up, it's not just a passing phase that people are choosing copper water bottles over plastic. It's actually a big step forward in understanding what's truly good for health and our planet. With science and age-old wisdom backing it up, copper isn't just an option; it's a brilliant solution that tackles the problems with plastic, both for the earth and our well-being. If everyone starts using copper utensils in their daily routines, imagine the kind of healthy and green world we'd be giving to ourselves and the future ones.

 

As we all know, copper has been gaining popularity among health enthusiasts, but the difference between gaining health benefits from copper vessels and facing consequences can come down to “how you use copper utensils.” 

A study published on NCBI states that storing certain acidic things can react with copper and form toxic compounds which may lead to health issues. However, there is nothing to be worried. All you need is to be cautious about the substances that you store in it.

 In simple terms: Use your Copper vessel for Plain Water Only. And in this post, we will be sharing everything you should know before purchasing your first copper vessel. So let’s begin! 

Why You Should Be Cautious About it

Many observations and researches have shown that copper contains antimicrobial properties and their ability to improve overall quality of water. But as already discussed, when acidic substances come into contact with this material, there can be a chemical reaction which can lead to copper leaching into that beverage/food item. And overconsumption of such stored items will increase the chances of copper toxicity, leading to health concerns which include: 

• Gastrointestinal Issues
• Indigestion/upset stomach 

Which Acidic Substances Should Not Be Stored in Copper Vessels

While the list of acidic substances to avoid storing in copper utensils can be long, but here we are sharing some commonly used items: 

1. Citrus juices such as lemon juice, orange juice
2. Tomato-based products
3. Pickled foods
4. Foods and beverages that contains vinegar
5. Alcoholic beverages which have high acidity
6. Fermented food items
7. Some dairy products such as yogurt/curd, buttermilk, etc.
8. Soft drinks and carbonated beverages 

Copper Vessel: Should You Buy it or Not?

Indeed yes, by including copper infused water into your routine, you can gain a multitude of health benefits such as: 

1. Water Purification: Copper is a material that contains antimicrobial properties which means it is a natural way to purify drinking water as it effectively kills the harmful bacteria..
2. Relief from Arthritis: If you have been suffering from arthritis and joint pain, you can get some relief by drinking water stored in copper water bottles because it contains anti-inflammatory properties.
3. Anti-aging benefits and glowing skin: Do you wish to get youthful and glowing skin? Copper water can help you as it will help promote collagen production as well as elasticity.
4. Alkaline pH Balance: Did you know that copper can alkalize water which further helps maintain a healthy pH balance in the body. This water will help in neutralizing acidity in your body which will potentially lead to reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
5. Enhanced digestion: If you suffer from indigestion, the copper water can help you. All you need to do is store water in a copper bottle overnight (7 to 8 hours) and drink it on an empty stomach. 

Wrap Up

Copper vessels can offer you a lot of health benefits, but it’s crucial to be cautious about the substances that you store in it. By avoiding storage of acidic substances in copper vessels and buying high-quality copper containers, you can ensure that you get maximum benefits for the health of your family.

Alkaline water, with its slightly higher pH level, is getting attention for being good for our health. With various health benefits to offer, alkaline water is gaining huge popularity nowadays. In this post, we are diving into why everyone's talking about it and how you can effortlessly include it in your daily routine. So let’s get started! 

What's alkaline water exactly?

Alkaline water is just water with a higher pH level than regular water. While regular water has a pH of 7, alkaline water has a bit more, thanks to minerals like calcium and potassium.

To add alkaline water to your day, you don't have to do anything complicated. Just swap one glass of your usual water with alkaline water. And you don't always have to buy it – you can make it at home by adding a bit of lemon, cucumber, or a pinch of baking soda to your water.

Studies revealing the benefits of Alkaline water

Alkaline water has a higher pH level in comparison to plain tap water which leads to various health benefits, such as:

• A research revealed that participants experienced a slight improvement in stool quality when consuming alkaline water.
• In another experiment, electrolyzed alkaline water consumption resulted in reducing high-shear blood viscosity in healthy adults with dehydration from exercise.
• In another scientific study, it was discovered that alkaline water has the potential to aid in treating osteoporosis by increasing bone density in postmenopausal women.

Where can you find alkaline water?

Alkaline water is readily available in various places. Many grocery stores stock bottled alkaline water, clearly labeled with its pH level. Health food stores and specialty beverage shops also carry a selection of alkaline water brands. Additionally, some water purification systems and filters are designed to produce alkaline water. Natural springs are another source, offering water with inherent alkalinity.

If you don’t want to spend money on alkaline water, then move to the next section, which talks about making alkaline water at home.

The easiest way to make your own Alkaline water at home

Creating natural alkaline water at home is simple with the help of a copper water bottle. Begin by filling the copper bottle with clean drinking water. Allow the water to sit in the bottle for several hours or overnight. During this time, the copper interacts with the water, promoting ionization and contributing minerals. Adding a squeeze of lemon or a slice of cucumber enhances the alkalinity. This DIY approach not only elevates the pH level of the water but also introduces beneficial minerals. Embracing a copper bottle in your hydration routine is an easy and cost-effective way to enjoy the potential benefits of natural alkaline water.

Other benefits of drinking water from copper vessels

Let's explore the benefits of copper bottles beyond its PH level: 

• Boosted Immunity: Copper possesses natural antimicrobial properties that can help fend off harmful microbes, supporting your immune system in its defense against illnesses.
• Healthy Skin Glow: Copper is known to stimulate the production of collagen, promoting skin elasticity and slowing down the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Drinking water from copper vessels may contribute to a natural, radiant glow.
• Digestive Aid: Copper aids in the digestion process by promoting the production of digestive enzymes. This, in turn, may help alleviate common digestive issues and promote a healthier gut.
• Joint and Bone Health: Copper is a vital mineral for maintaining the health of joints and bones. Regular intake of water from copper vessels may contribute to the prevention of bone and joint disorders.
• Brain Functionality: Copper is involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, essential for proper brain function. Drinking water infused with copper may support cognitive processes and help maintain mental clarity.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Copper's anti-inflammatory properties can contribute to reducing inflammation in the body, providing relief to those with conditions like arthritis or inflammatory disorders.

Ready to add copper water to your routine?

As you embark on this journey, consider the exquisite artistry of handmade copper water vessels from Kaarigar Handicrafts. Each bottle not only brings the timeless charm of traditional craftsmanship but also encapsulates the essence of well-being, making every sip a blend of health and heritage. Cheers to a refreshing and revitalizing experience with every drop!

Did you know that the hydration state controls your stress responsiveness as well as social behavior? Yes, research states that dehydration can lead to a significant impact on stress levels, mood and overall cognitive function. 

It’s common for most of us in our busy lives to compromise on the simple practices to maintain good mental health; for instance staying properly hydrated. 

Today, we will focus on the facts and benefits of mindful hydration so that the connection between the water we consume and our mental well-being becomes more than just a biological necessity—it becomes a transformative practice. 

What is Mindful Hydration?

The term mindful hydration simply goes beyond the mere act of drinking water; it's about being present in the moment, it’s simply about acknowledging the importance of proper nourishment of our body. It is about savoring each sip of water, understanding the body's signals, and appreciating the profound connection between hydration and overall well-being. 

The Importance of Hydration for Stress Reduction

Have you ever noticed the impact of dehydration on your stress levels? Dehydration might seem like a simple inconvenience, but its effects can reach far beyond mere thirst. When our bodies are deprived of water, stress hormones can surge, leading to increased feelings of anxiety and tension. 

In fact, in a study with more than 3,000  adults, researchers looked at how drinking water is connected to feeling sad. They discovered that people who drank very little water (less than two glasses a day) had a much higher chance of feeling depressed than those who drank five glasses or more every day. 

Therefore, proper hydration turns out to be a powerful tool in maintaining better mental health. By ensuring our bodies have an adequate water supply, we create a foundation for a calmer, more focused mind. 

Mindful Hydration and Ayurveda

Drinking water in a mindful way, and Ayurveda, an ancient health system, go hand in hand. In Ayurveda, water is seen as super important for keeping our bodies and minds in balance. Ayurveda also supports drinking water from copper vessels to gain more benefits for your health.

So, when we put both ideas together—paying attention to how we drink water and using copper—it becomes a cool and connected way to take care of both our bodies and minds. 

Benefits of Copper Infused Water 

Antibacterial Properties: Many studies showcase that copper possesses natural antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, which means it can help keep your water cleaner by inhibiting the growth of harmful microorganisms. 

Improves Digestion: Copper has been traditionally associated with supporting the digestive system. Drinking water stored in a copper vessel may stimulate peristalsis (the rhythmic contraction of the digestive muscles), aiding in the digestion process. 

Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Some studies suggest that copper may have anti-inflammatory properties. Consuming water infused with copper could potentially help in reducing inflammation in the body, contributing to better overall health. 

Joint Health: Copper is believed to be a trace mineral which plays a key role in the maintenance of healthy bones and joints. 

Good for Skin: As copper is involved in the production of melanin, collagen, and elastin—essential components for healthy skin. Regular intake of copper-infused water might contribute to maintaining the skin's health and promoting a youthful appearance. 

Wrap up

The journey to mindful hydration is a profound one, and the inclusion of a handmade copper water bottle adds layers of meaning to this daily ritual. It's a reminder to slow down, to savor the simplicity of a sip, and to appreciate the connection between our well-being and the choices we make. So, as you take that next sip from your copper companion, remember that you're not just hydrating; you're embracing a secret to stress reduction that has stood the test of time. 

Want to buy an authentic copper water bottle? Look no further than Kaarigar Handicrafts where each bottle is carefully handcrafted by most skilled professionals in India.

Ayurveda, a timeless system of healing originating over 5,000 years ago in the Indian subcontinent, isn't just a medical practice; rather it is a way of life. In this blog, we aim to uncover the roots and principles of Ayurveda to help you live a healthier life.

Ayurvedic Nutrition and Lifestyle

Food habits and diet according to Ayurveda:

Ayurveda recognizes that our bodies are unique, and therefore, our dietary needs should be tailored to our individual constitution or dosha. From the warming spices for Vata types to the cooling foods for Pitta, and the grounding elements for Kapha, Ayurvedic nutrition is a personalized journey to being more healthy. So, it’s important to know the dominant doshas in your body and customize your meals accordingly.

The importance of routine and daily regimens:

Ayurveda places a special focus on daily routines, emphasizing the impact they have on our overall well-being. From waking up with the sun to engaging in self-care practices like oil pulling or tongue scraping, all these daily regimens foster balance and harmony in our lives.

Incorporating Ayurveda into Modern Life

Incorporating Ayurveda into your life need not be overwhelming. Explore practical and simple ways to weave Ayurvedic principles into your daily routine. From herbal teas to mindfulness practices, discover how even the smallest adjustments can lead to profound shifts in your well-being. 

Hydrate Mindfully: Start your day with warm water stored in our copper bottles, enhancing hydration while leveraging Ayurveda's recommendation for drinking room temperature or warm water. Consider infusing the water with Ayurvedic herbs like tulsi or mint for added benefits.

Rejuvenating Herbal Baths: Infuse your bathwater with Ayurvedic herbs and bath salts for complete relaxation.

 

Yoga, meditation, and spiritual growth according to Ayurveda: Ayurveda is a holistic system that encompasses the mind and spirit, recognizing the profound interplay between mental and emotional well-being and overall physical health.

• Dosha-Specific Asanas: It’s suggested to tailor your yoga practice to your predominant dosha, incorporating asanas (postures) that align with Vata's fluidity, Pitta's intensity, or Kapha's grounding nature. This personalized approach fosters a deeper mind-body connection.
• Balancing Pranayama: Integrate pranayama (breath control) techniques into your routine, choosing practices that balance your dosha. For instance, calming breathwork suits Vata, while cooling breaths are beneficial for Pitta, and grounding techniques are ideal for Kapha.
• Meditation for Mindful Awareness: Embrace meditation practices that resonate with your dosha. Vata individuals may find solace in guided visualizations, Pitta personalities may benefit from mindfulness meditation, and Kapha types might thrive in loving-kindness practices.
• Mind-Body Connection: Ayurveda emphasizes the inseparable connection between the mind and body. During meditation, focus on the breath and bodily sensations, fostering a heightened awareness of the present moment and deepening your connection to self. 

Wrap up

Ayurveda focuses on complete healing, from the inside out, recognizing that true well-being is a harmonious balance of the mind, body, and spirit. If you follow the above-mentioned practices, incorporating Ayurvedic wisdom into your daily life, you embark on a journey of holistic transformation.

 

The Singing Bowl, also called a Himalayan bowl, is known to be used by Buddhist monks since 600 B.C. It is most commonly known for sound therapy and space clearing, but there are other uses for it. The singing bowl can be used to balance our chakras, reduce stress and even sound massage. 

The sound produced by the singing bowl is that of the AUM –  the absolute. There are two basic ways of playing a Singing Bowl, you can either strike it with the wooden wand for percussive, pulsating tones; or you can encircle the edges repeatedly with the wand for a sustained effect.  Resting the singing bowl upon the palm of your hand will usually enable you to appreciate the experience to a greater depth than placing the bowl on a pad.

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This hilarious article was written by an ​ 

Architect from BaaN, Netherlands who spent two years in Hyderabad.

For the benefit of every Tom, Dick and Harry visiting India and daring to drive on Indian roads, I am offering a few hints for survival. They are applicable to every place in India except Bihar, where life outside a vehicle is only marginally safer.

Indian road rules broadly operate within the domain of karma where you do your best, and leave the results to your insurance company. The hints are as follows:

Do we drive on the left or right of the road?

The answer is "both". Basically you start on the left of the road, unless it is occupied. In that case, go to the right, unless that is also occupied. Then proceed by occupying the next available gap, as in chess. Just trust your instincts, ascertain the direction, and proceed. Adherence to road rules leads to much misery and occasional fatality. Most drivers don't drive, but just aim their vehicles in the intended direction. Don't you get discouraged or underestimate yourself except for a belief in reincarnation, the other drivers are not in any better position.

Don't stop at pedestrian crossings just because some fool wants to cross the road. You may do so only if you enjoy being bumped in the back. Pedestrians have been strictly instructed to cross only when traffic is moving slowly or has come to a dead stop because some minister is in town. Still some idiot may try to wade across, but then, let us not talk ill of the dead.

Blowing your horn is not a sign of protest as in some countries. We horn to express joy, resentment, frustration, romance and bare lust (two brisk blasts), or, just mobilize a dozing cow in the middle of the bazaar.

Keep informative books in the glove compartment. You may read them during traffic jams, while awaiting the chief minister's motorcade, or waiting for the rain ​ ​
waters to recede when over ground traffic meets underground drainage.

Occasionally you might see what looks like a UFO with blinking colored lights and weird sounds emanating from within. This is an illuminated bus, full of happy pilgrims singing bhajans. These pilgrims go at breakneck speed, seeking contact with the Almighty, ​ 
often meeting with success.

Auto Rickshaw (Baby Taxi): The result of a collision between a rickshaw and an automobile, this three-wheeled vehicle works on an external combustion engine that runs on a mixture of kerosene oil and creosote. This triangular vehicle carries iron rods, gas cylinders or passengers three times its weight and dimension, at an unspecified fare. After careful geometric calculations, children are folded and packed into these auto rickshaws until some children in the periphery are not in contact with the vehicle at all. Then their school bags are pushed into the microscopic gaps all round so those minor collisions with other vehicles on the road cause no permanent damage. Of course, the peripheral children are charged half the fare and also learn Newton's laws of motion en route to school. Auto-rickshaw drivers follow the road rules depicted in the film Ben Hur, and are licensed to irritate.

Mopeds: The moped looks like an oil tin on wheels and makes noise like an electric shaver. It runs 30 miles on a teaspoon of petrol and travels at break-bottom speed. As the sides of the road are too rough for a ride, the moped drivers tend to drive in the middle of the road; they would rather drive under heavier vehicles instead of around them and are often "mopped" off the tarmac.

Leaning Tower of Passes: Most bus passengers are given free passes and during rush hours, there is absolute mayhem. There are passengers hanging off other passengers, who in turn hang off the railings and the overloaded bus leans dangerously, defying laws of gravity but obeying laws of surface tension. As drivers get paid for overload (so many Rupees per kg of passenger), no questions are ever asked. Steer clear of these buses by a width of three passengers.

One-way Street: These boards are put up by traffic people to add jest in their otherwise drab lives. Don't stick to the literal meaning and proceed in one direction. In metaphysical terms, it means that you cannot proceed in two directions at once. So drive, as you like, in reverse throughout, if you are the fussy type. Least I sound hypercritical; I must add a positive point also. Rash and fast driving in residential areas has been prevented by providing a "speed breaker"; two for each house.

This mound, incidentally, covers the water and drainage pipes for that residence and is left un tarred for easy identification by the corporation authorities, should they want to recover the pipe for year-end accounting.

Night driving on Indian roads can be an exhilarating experience (for those with the mental makeup of Genghis Khan). In a way, it is like playing Russian roulette, because you do not know who amongst the drivers is loaded. What looks like premature dawn on the horizon turns out to be a truck attempting a speed record. On encountering it, just pull partly into the field adjoining the road until the phenomenon passes. Our roads do not have shoulders, but occasional boulders. Do not blink your lights expecting reciprocation. The only dim thing in the truck is the driver, and with the peg of illicit arrack (alcohol) he has had at the last stop, his total cerebral functions add up to little more than a naught. Truck drivers are the James Bonds of India, and are licensed to kill. Often you may encounter a single powerful beam of light about six feet above the ground. This is not a super motorbike, but a truck approaching you with a single light on, usually the left one. It could be the right one, but never get too close to investigate. You may prove your point posthumously. Of course, all this occurs at night, on the trunk roads. During the daytime, trucks are more visible, except that the drivers will never show any Signal. (And you must watch for the absent signals; they are the greater threat). Only, you will often observe that the cleaner who sits next to the driver, will project his hand and wave hysterically.

This is definitely not to be construed as a signal for a left turn. The waving is just a statement of physical relief on a hot day.

If, after all this, you still want to drive in India, have your lessons between 8 pm and 11 am-when the police have gone home and The citizen is then free to enjoy the 'FREEDOM OF SPEED' enshrined in our constitution.

Having said all this, isn't it true that the accident rate and related deaths are less in India compared to US or other countries!

We're about to embark on our latest sourcing trip to India, so we thought it'd be a good time to share our top-5 tips for visiting this enchanting country. Traveling through India can be daunting, especially for first-timers. Preparation is a must and we hope these tips prove to be helpful for your first or next visit.

1. Personal Space = Premium Real Estate There is a different understanding of personal space in India. It is, after all, a nation of over a billion people. Accept the fact that public areas such as elevators, queues, sidewalks and public transport will be more crowded than you're probably used to. That being said, don't be afraid to stand your ground when someone is particularly aggressive. A stern look in the right direction should do the trick.
2. There Will Be Noise Another byproduct of one billion inhabitants is noise. Regardless of what your wristwatch is telling you - if you're outside, your ears will know it. Once again, accept that cars will honk, music will blare, people will chatter and shopkeepers will yell. If you're a light sleeper - pack ear plugs. If you dislike loud vendors - pack an iPod too.
3. BARGAIN! Speaking of vendors, it's important to understand that India has a culture of bargaining. Bargaining, not cricket, is the national pastime (yeah I said it). They absolutely love it! Most prices are negotiable, and most prices are intentionally set quite high in anticipation of bargaining. You'll find this happens at street-side kiosks, shops at the mall and everywhere in between. Ask for the price, counter with a much lower figure and settle for something in between.
4. Escape to the Country If the crowds, noise and intense negotiations become overwhelming, it's time to get out of the city. Rural India differs greatly from her urban sister. Life is less hectic here. This is where yoga was born and where Buddha found nirvana. No trip to India is complete without experiencing the tranquility of the her countryside. It also gives you the perfect excuse to hop onboard India's legendary rail system.
5. Watch Your Feet In India, the foot is considered an unclean part of the body. You're expected to remove your shoes when you enter a home or holy place. If you see a doorway with several pairs of shoes placed around it, lose your footwear before proceeding. This means that you're going to need to slip in and out of your shoes regularly. Invest in a shoe or durable sandal that'll make your life a bit easier. Furthermore, be careful of how you use your feet. Simply showing the soles of your feet to someone is considered disrespectful so think before you kick back.

As we've mentioned, preparation is truly the key to a smooth visit to India. There's plenty of helpful information on this subject floating around on the internet so read up and travel safely!