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December 13th, 2009
The Victorian style furniture draws its influence from the Victoria era that brought us a style of furniture, which was highly decorative and elaborate. The Victorian style arose quite naturally in western society. Initially, they had a tendency to keep each room for a particular purpose. The rooms that were likely to be seen by visitors were decorated with a view to impress. Known for their male dominated society, the downstairs rooms were heavy and masculine in their taste, whereas the upstairs rooms were usually lighter and more feminine. For those of you who have a soft corner for the Victorian style furniture, you would be delighted to know that it is back with a big bang.
Now, it is possible to furnish your home with Victorian touch that will recreate the warmth and feel of that era. However, the style has undergone some transformations, to give it a more contemporary look. During the Victorian times, lot of emphasis was laid on heavy ornamental Renaissance furnishings. Mahogany, oak, faux and bamboo are the most commonly used materials. You can be sure that Victorian furniture reproduction fill your home with some classic designs that will be eye catching and take you back to a royal era. Given below are some benefits of having Victorian bedroom furniture.
Features Of Victorian Bedroom Furniture
·The Victorian Bedroom Furniture set mostly includes a large bed, two nightstands for either side of the bed, a pretty vanity and a large wardrobe to store clothing, which are elegantly designed.
·The Chairs available are in two sizes, the Gentleman’s chair being bigger to accommodate and of course, a smaller ladies chair.
·Victorian furniture gives your bedroom a touch of class and if you are a big fan of romance and the classics, then it suites your bedroom well.
·Victorian furniture in your bedroom makes you appreciate beauty, and at the same time gives you a sense of comfort.
·Victorian furniture still exists, proving it timeless essence, even after undergoing various changes both in terms of style and fashion.
·Victorian furniture in your bedroom features very decorative design and makes use of gold accents and highlights that provides a very classy and elegant look.
·Victorian furniture is quite old and gives a very antique look to your bedroom.
·Victorian furniture is sure to become the focal point and centre of attraction of any room, because it is very heavy.
·The intricate carvings on the arms and legs of these furniture pieces make it unique and a design to appreciate.
·Fabrics are used as an alternative for wallpaper, mainly because they keep the home warm and cozy, during the cold. Victorian patterns and colors tend to be dark, rich and bold.
·The Victorian touch would definitely give your room a wealthy and luxurious look.
Call shopnamaste.com for victorian style furniture from India.
By: iloveindia
Posted in Home decorating | 2 Comments »
November 8th, 2009
If decorators can pull off an uninhibited style and have a flare for the exotic, they might be perfect candidates for designing an Indian theme room. Here are tips for exploring the trendy look that is looking less and less foreign with its newfound popularity.
Colors for an East Indian Theme Room
Bright color is key to an authentic Indian look. Bold reds, brilliant turquoise, and vibrant orange are set off with the glitter of gold embroidery and lacquer. Because the color array is so broad, decorators might consider settling on their focal point first. A color scheme will fall into place easily once tapestries have been chosen for the windows, or an Indian area rug for the center of the room.
Layered colors work well in an Indian theme room. For example, decorators can choose one shade of turquoise for the curtains, another for the throw pillows, and a third for the walls.
Furniture for an Asian-Indian Style Room
Elaborately carved wood is integral to Indian décor. Archways, window lattices, pillars, balconies, and even ceilings display intricate woodwork. Decorators can introduce this motif into their home with carved furniture, accent pieces, mirrors and picture frames.
Wooden furniture in the Indian style is ornately embellished with carvings and ivory, metal, or brass wire inlays. Pieces designed for seating are generally lower than western couches and stools.
Please check us out at shopnamaste.com for furniture ideas.
By: Interior decorating
Posted in Home decorating | 1 Comment »
November 8th, 2009
Jaipur is India’s second important gems and jewellery exporting centre and the first for sales to foreign tourists. With a history dating back to more than two and a half centuries, the famed Indian Gems City of Jaipur is still a hotspot in Gems ‘n’ Jewellery.
From tradition-bound manual processing of colored gems and the manufacture of specialised jewellery like Minakari, the long passage to a modern gems and jewellery sector has been a difficult and rather slow transition, but Jaipur has endeavoured to keep pace with changing times. It has been a double challenge - living up to past glory, while moving ahead in modern times to meet growing global competition. So what Jaipur offers now is actually a glorious synthesis of the ancient and the contemporary.
Jaipur had not only been the main colored gems processing centre of India, but also a global centre because most of the world supply of cut and polished emerald flowed out from this gems city. Besides emeralds, Jaipur has been processing the whole rainbow of colored gems, as well as pearls. The traditional processing work undertaken here with outstanding skill includes cutting and polishing of over a hundred species of colored gemstones, both natural and synthetic, carving, bead-making, stringing, manufacture of objets d’art and fine jewellery. A local Ustad (master cutter) has performed the rare feast of cutting 1400 tiniest emeralds, totally weighing a single carat ! A world record indeed.
Dynamic Generation:
The younger generation has brought dynamic Transformation and internationalism to this sector. Younger gemsmen have taken keen interest in not only modernising manufacturing, but are also concentrating on marketing which has become vitally important in modern business. The traditional jewellers did business at their ‘gaddis’ with mostly their the globe by personal visits, displaying choice goods at international expos and developing new contacts, but have also established branch offices overseas, thereby broadening the horizons of this business. They are actually ambassadors of this beautiful world of gems and jewellery who have crossed the seven seas to spread the message of global cooperation in this fraternity.
Jaipur, which has diversified into modern automatic jewellery making, now has a Jewellery Product Development Centre too which has commenced training jewellery designers. The aim of the GJEPC in founding this much needed facility is to provide trained designers for the city’s developing jewellery industry.
Jaipur already has a Gem Testing Laboratory, which conducts training too, and a regional office of India’s apex body Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council. A gem Industrial Park was also started. The Industrial Development Corporation of Rajasthan has taken it over and proposes to resurrect it.
Modernization:
Lately the most important step Jaipur has taken forward, is modernization of both the gems and jewellery industries. It started manufacturing colored gems in calibrated sizes to meet overseas demand. Ultrasonic machines were inducted into the bead making industry. Semi-automatic production in other sections of the gems sector followed. A very important development in this respect is that today Jaipur is not only using modern machines but is also manufacturing some of them.
Please check out our gemstone collection in our party favors and gifts category at shopnamaste.com
BY: Gemstone Manufacturer
Posted in Indian Jewelry | 2 Comments »
November 1st, 2009
History of Indian jewellery is as old as the history of the country itself. Around 5000 years ago, the desire to adorn themselves aroused in people, leading to the origin of jewellery. Since then, Indian women and jewellery have gone hand in hand. There cannot be a woman in India, who does not adore herself with minimum jewellery. In fact, jewellery is considered as security and prestige of women in the country. The attraction for jewellery has been great in India that it is no more a craft than an art.
Indian jewellery is unique in its design and workmanship. In all kinds of traditional dance forms, jewellery has been a significant part. Be it Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi or Kathak, all have given importance to jewellery in presenting the artist. The sheer number of items forming the jewelry of an Indian woman is numerous, ranging from earrings and necklaces to pieces for adorning the hair, hip, feet, and feet. Jewelry made with emeralds, diamonds, pearls, rubies, sapphires and other precious and semi-precious stones have been in practice for long.
The range of jewelry in India varies from religious to purely aesthetic types. It is crafted not only for humans, but also for the Gods, ceremonial elephants and horses. Royal class people have given patronage to the art of jewellery since ancient times, when rajas and maharajas vied with each other to possess the most exquisite and magnificent pieces. Regional differences can be observed in the making of jewellery, depending on the differences in geography, people, culture, and their lifestyle.
While the designs in solid gold jewellery of Tamil Nadu and Kerala are inspired by nature, the Meenakari and Kundan styles of jewelry making have been influenced by the Mughal dynasty. Then there is a huge range of silver beads found all over India, especially in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh. Their availability lead to the development of the bead jewelry, popular till date.
While Assamese jewellery is influenced by local flora and fauna, Manipuri jewelry-makers make use of items like shells, animal claws, teeth and precious and semi-precious stones. These huge varieties of ornaments bear testimony to the excellent skill of the jewelers and craftspeople of the country. Indian jewelry in Gold, diamonds, silver, sterling silver, precious stones and semi-precious stones is a rage all over the world.
Check out our religious statues at shopnamaste.com.
By: Hindustan Link
Posted in Other | 1 Comment »
November 1st, 2009
History of Indian jewellery is as old as the history of the country itself. Around 5000 years ago, the desire to adorn themselves aroused in people, leading to the origin of jewellery. Since then, Indian women and jewellery have gone hand in hand. There cannot be a woman in India, who does not adore herself with minimum jewellery. In fact, jewellery is considered as security and prestige of women in the country. The attraction for jewellery has been great in India that it is no more a craft than an art.
Indian jewellery is unique in its design and workmanship. In all kinds of traditional dance forms, jewellery has been a significant part. Be it Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi or Kathak, all have given importance to jewellery in presenting the artist. The sheer number of items forming the jewelry of an Indian woman is numerous, ranging from earrings and necklaces to pieces for adorning the hair, hip, feet, and feet. Jewelry made with emeralds, diamonds, pearls, rubies, sapphires and other precious and semi-precious stones have been in practice for long.
The range of jewelry in India varies from religious to purely aesthetic types. It is crafted not only for humans, but also for the Gods, ceremonial elephants and horses. Royal class people have given patronage to the art of jewellery since ancient times, when rajas and maharajas vied with each other to possess the most exquisite and magnificent pieces. Regional differences can be observed in the making of jewellery, depending on the differences in geography, people, culture, and their lifestyle.
While the designs in solid gold jewellery of Tamil Nadu and Kerala are inspired by nature, the Meenakari and Kundan styles of jewelry making have been influenced by the Mughal dynasty. Then there is a huge range of silver beads found all over India, especially in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh. Their availability lead to the development of the bead jewelry, popular till date.
While Assamese jewellery is influenced by local flora and fauna, Manipuri jewelry-makers make use of items like shells, animal claws, teeth and precious and semi-precious stones. These huge varieties of ornaments bear testimony to the excellent skill of the jewelers and craftspeople of the country. Indian jewelry in Gold, diamonds, silver, sterling silver, precious stones and semi-precious stones is a rage all over the world.
Check out shopnamaste.com for silver based with one gram gold polish jewelry sets for any occassion.
By: Cultural India
Posted in Indian Jewelry | 2 Comments »
October 25th, 2009
A few tips on maintaining different wood products:
Sheesham Wood
Most of our furniture is made from Indian rosewood, or sheesham wood (dalbergia sisoo), from renewable sources in northern India. It is dry-kilned and treated prior to manufacture. Sheesham is a heavy and hard wood with a rich chestnut colour, well-suited for furniture making.
Waxing & Polishing
From time to time the furniture will need to be waxed. This should be done using a soft cloth and beeswax, which you should then buff using a soft lint-free cloth. Always work in the direction of the grain, and do not use silicon-based sprays or polish.
Spills & Stains
Although our furniture is dry-kilned and treated, we advise you not to place anything hot or wet directly onto the surface as staining may occur, so try to use protective mats or coasters. Should you spill any food or liquid on the wood, wipe it off immediately with a dry cloth. If the wood becomes marked, gently rub it down with extra fine wire wool in the direction of the grain, and restore the finish using beeswax.
Direct Sunlight
Position your furniture away from direct sunlight and heat, where practicable. This will protect the wood from fading, and help avoid any cracking and movement in the joints.
Please check out our wood products on shopnamaste.com.
By: Bhatik
Posted in Home decorating | No Comments »
October 25th, 2009
Tulsi is a sacred plant which can be found in almost every Hindu’s home. Tulsi Pooja (Worship of Tulsi) is observed almost every day. Following things are required for Tulsi Puja.
The sacred plant, Tulsi is regarded as the incarnation of the goddess Mahalakshmi. Tulsi represents duty, dedication, love, virtue and sorrow of all women. That is why this herb is usually worshipped by women of all age groups.
To begin Tulsi Puja, one is required to take a bath. Decorate the pot where Tulsi is grown. Offer water to the sacred plant. Apply kumkum on one of its leaf. A length of red cloth can be wrapped along the stem. Offer red flower to the sacred herb, Tulsi. Offer fruits by placing them near the pot. Light the clay lamp and perform aarti to complete the Tulsi Puja. People usually take a leaf of Tulsi after the Puja and put it in their mouth. It is believed by committing such act; they are taking the spirit of goddess inside them.
Tulsi Vivah
It is considered that the month of Kartik (October-November) is loved by Tulsi. And on a specific day (Kartik Shukla Dwadashi) of this month there is a tradition when Tulsi plants are beautifully decorated with structures made of sugarcane, mango leaves and flowers and then a puja is offered. In northern India and in Gaudiya Vaishnava communities, it is called the ‘Tulsi Vivah’ or the wedding day of Tulsi and Shaligram.
Tulsi represents honor, virtue and steadfast loyalty. This sacred bush of herbal leaves symbolizes Hindu femininity respected by men and women. Tulsi is regarded as the “Mother of the World.”
Please check out our religious items on shopnamaste.com.
By: iloveindia
Posted in Other | No Comments »
October 25th, 2009
The jewelry which is not in mainstream production and of which the mode of production is no longer popular is known by the name of ‘Antique Jewelry.’ This kind of jewelry has dull and rough look, combined with an old world-world charm, and this serves as the major USP of such jewelry. It takes you back to yore era, by its unfinished and dull looks. The jewelry pieces in antique jewelry usually belong to a particular period of history, when its popularity was at its peak.
In India, you can find antique jewelry in numerous forms, like meenakari, kundan work, and so on. Those pieces of antique jewelry that are extremely rare are usually sold at auctions, in antique stores and curio shops. They include the jewelry that belongs to the early period of history. It is this rarity of antique jewelry that makes it so appealing. However, at times, jewelry that is furnished in antique pattern is also given the name of antique jewelry.
Still, those who really value the rarity and exclusivity of antique jewelry, go for the original pieces. Antique jewelry embodies the unadulterated jewelry tradition of the country, in the earlier times, concentrating on ethnic motifs and stones, metal and design. The antique jewelry of India is popular not only within its own territorial boundaries, but also finds favor amongst people belonging to UK, USA and other western countries.
Please check out shopnamaste.com for stunning antique jewelry to match any outfit.
By: Cultural India
Posted in Indian Jewelry | No Comments »
October 11th, 2009
Diwali falls, the Indian festival of lights, falls on the day of ‘Amavasyaa’, when the moon does not rise and there is darkness all around. Light, being symbol of hope and positive energy, indicates the victory of good over evil. By spreading light in every corner of our premises, we try to destroy the reign of darkness, on the night of Diwali. People decorate their premises with diyas, electric bulbs and other decorative electric lighting fixtures, to make their surroundings filled with colorful light and to make it bright and beautiful. Go through the following lines to learn more about Diwali and its significance.
What Is Diwali
Deepavali - the very name of this festival reveals its meaning. The festival is all about the lighting diyas. Later the term ‘Deepawali’ became ‘Diwali’. Deepawali or Diwali is also known as ‘the festival of lights’, because on this day, people illuminate their home and premises with diyas and colorful lights. Celebrated usually in the month of October or November, Diwali bears significance in the Hindu culture as well as among Buddhists, Sikhs and Jains. The legends connected to the festival are different for different religions.
Importance of Diwali
Diwali is the Indian festival that brings a series of festivals with it. One after another, we get a chance to celebrate five ceremonious occasions. The people of all age groups and classes with equal zeal and enthusiasm celebrate Diwali throughout India. They put on new apparels and participate in the various activities that are related to Diwali celebrations. It is a festival of celebrations such as lightings, crackers, cleanliness, colorful rangoli making, social gatherings to exchange greetings and sharing sweets with your loved ones. Diwali is a festival filled with spiritualism and religious activities, such as worship of Goddess Lakshmi, worship of Lord Ganesha, worship of Ma Kali, worship of Lord Chitragupta and worship of Govardhan Parvat.
The celebration of the five-day long festival, Diwali, begins on Aswayuja Bahula Chaturdashi and concludes on Kartika Shudha Vijaya. The first day of this festival begins with ‘Dhan Trayodashi’ or ‘Dhanteras’. After the Dhanvantari Trayodashi the second day of Diwali is ‘Narak Chaturdashi’, which is popular as ‘Chhoti Diwali’. The third day of Diwali, which is also called ‘Badi Diwali’ is the main day of celebrations of the festival of Diwali. People perform Lakshmi Pujan (worship of divine Goddess Lakshmi) on this day and offer prayers to her to bless them with wealth and prosperity. The fourth day of Diwali is devoted to Govardhan Pooja (worship of Lord Govardhan Parvat). The fifth day of the Diwali is Bhai Dooj, the time to honor the brother-sister relationship.
Please check out shopnamaste.com for Diwali decorating ideas and gifts.
By: iloveindia
Posted in Other | No Comments »
October 4th, 2009
Karwa Chauth is an annual Hindu fasting undertaken by women in northern and western parts of India on the fourth day of Krishna Paksha (waning phase of moon) in Kartik Month, as per North Indian Hindu lunar calendar. Karwa Chauth 2009 date is October 7. Karwa Chauth Vrat is observed by women for a happy and prosperous married life and for the well being of the husband and is one of the most popular Hindu fast and ritual.
Karwa Chauth is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is believed that Goddess Parvathi had observed severe penance to get Lord Shiva as her husband. Women emulate the fasting practice observed by Goddess Parvati for her husband Lord Shiva.
On the Karwa Chauth day after an early morning bath married women eat food made from select grains and fruits. All this takes place before sunrise. After sunrise the women observe a strict fast.
Women in the neighborhood gather in a house and take advice from elderly women on how to observe Karva Chowth fasting. They also listen to the significance to Karva Chowth, Katha (stories) and perform rituals together.
The fast is broken after sighting the moon at night along with her husband. The moon is seen through a sieve. Women break the fast with an offering of water and flowers to the moon.
Check out shopnamaste.com for all your festive needs.
By: Hindu Blog
Posted in Other | 1 Comment »
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