by admin | Mar 30, 2025 | community, culture, faith and religion, religion, traditions
Thiruvananthapuram
(
Kerala
), [India], March 30 (ANI): As the day before the event approached,
Eid
, as thousands get ready for a day filled with prayer, contemplation, and festivity, the
Kaduvayil Juma Masjid
, also referred to as Kaduvayil Thangal Palli, embodies the essence of faith, community, and legacy.
This prominent mosque, among the biggest in South India, serves as much more than a religious site; it stands as a haven where history, architecture, and human spirit converge, attracting devotees and visitors alike from all over the area.
A shrine bearing a mystical heritage stands between Kallambalam and Attingal, merely 12 kilometers away from the Varkala Railway Station.
Kaduvayil Juma Masjid
is devoted to Saint Kaduvayil Thangal, a revered Sufi mystic recognized for his profound wisdom and miraculous healing abilities. Located within the mosque compound, his shrine draws countless visitors from various faiths seeking his spiritual blessings. His messages about unity, altruism, and community service remain influential, thus establishing this place as a key symbol of interreligious peace and understanding.
Kerala
.
“Distinctive among mosques, this site welcomes individuals from various religions—Hindus, Christians, and Muslims—who gather in prayer. Numerous visitors journey from far-off regions after hearing tales of this mosque, convinced that seeking solace through prayer here may alleviate their hardships. With over four centuries of heritage, legend has it that a Sufi mystic, known for wandering alongside a tiger in these territories, resided here. People back then held him in high regard, filled with both respect and wonder,” explained Rahim, a devotee.
He mentioned that many years earlier, during the process of preparing land for farming, a burial site was found. This discovery caused the laborers to halt their activities, and that very evening, each of them had dreams about the same Sufi mystic, who appeared roaming around accompanied by a tiger.
Subsequently, Islamic scholars journeyed to the location and verified that it was truly his final resting spot. The circumstances surrounding his death remain unknown, yet his existence at this locale is certain. With passage of time, members from both Muslim and Hindu backgrounds united efforts to safeguard this holy place.
The mosque’s construction commenced in the early 20th century, approximately in 1978, and concluded in 1985. What makes this place extraordinary is that it was constructed by a Hindu individual named Gopalakrishnan, who earned the nickname ‘Mosque Man.’ Additionally, this mosque operates a hospital where more than half—over 700 out of 1,300 employees—are from various other faiths. It serves as an exemplary symbol of harmony.
“More than just a house of prayer, this mosque actively engages in charitable activities. We assist individuals who require financial aid for healthcare costs, offer educational support, and help people irrespective of their origins. To us, they are all members of the same family, which is fundamentally important,” stated Rahim.
A mosque of such magnificence and importance would typically be created by a renowned architect. However, its design was crafted by Govindan Gopalakrishnan, a non-Muslim individual aged 78, originating from
Thiruvananthapuram
. For decades, he has been the go-to name for mosque designs across
Kerala
, even without any formal training in architecture or art. From modest local mosques to some of
Kerala
His most magnificent Islamic edifices showcase his remarkable talent, celebrated for their detailed elegance. Kaduvayil Palli, blending tradition remarkably, stands out.
Kerala
architecture and Islamic artistry, stands as one of his finest creations.
Overseen by the Kaduvayil Muslim Jama-Ath Charitable Trust, this mosque serves as a central point for social welfare and educational activities. It operates both an orphanage and a college, offering care and educational resources to those less fortunate. The community outreach includes various assistance programs such as scholarships, financial support, and health services, further solidifying the mosque’s significance beyond religious functions.
The mosque stands out due to its inclusive nature, offering dedicated prayer areas for women, which makes people from various backgrounds feel welcomed.
“With
Eid
around the corner,
Kaduvayil Juma Masjid
transforms into a lively hub of worship and celebration. The arrangements for the magnificent event begin.
Eid
Prayers, where throngs of people come together en masse, underscore the mosque’s importance.
Kerala
The yearly Uroos festival, a significant occasion, witnesses believers engaging in prayers, sermons, and collective meals, symbolizing the spirit of unity and coexistence,’ stated Munajir, who serves as an Imam, to ANI.
The world frequently becomes segmented due to disparities.
Kaduvayil Juma Masjid
continues to be a prime illustration of harmony and peaceful coexistence. Devotees from Hindu, Muslim backgrounds, along with individuals of different beliefs, frequent the shrine, strengthening
Kerala
‘s strong tradition of embracing multiple religions. The reality that a Hindu individual was responsible for designing one of South India’s most respected mosques exemplifies this inclusive attitude.
Regardless of whether you are a pilgrim, a history buff, or a traveler looking for tranquility,
Kaduvayil Juma Masjid
welcomes everyone with outstretched arms. (ANI)
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
by admin | Mar 30, 2025 | art, artwork, culture, exhibitions, poland
Over 150 pieces such as paintings, drawings, and prints from the 19th and 20th centuries are currently being exhibited in Japan. This collection has been referred to as a ‘treasure trove’ featuring some of the most renowned instances of Polish Modernism.
The exhibition holds significant importance for Polish-Japanese cultural ties. For the first time in the Land of the Cherry Blossoms, it offers an opportunity to display artworks that form the core of our national heritage,” stated Polish Minister of Culture and National Heritage Hanna Wróblewska at the formal unveiling ceremony.
Dr. Andrzej Szczerski, the director of the National Museum in Krakow, where many examples of artisanal crafts are displayed regularly, commented that this event marked “the biggest exhibition of Young Poland’s art ever held in Japan.”
“The numerous audience and media representatives who attended the opening emphasised the artistic importance of the works on display and the significance of the exhibition, showing how the art of Young Poland was able to express both national content and speak the universal language of art,” he said.
The exhibition takes up the whole floor at MOMAK (The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto), and it is organized around various themes that touch upon inspirations derived from nature, history, Japanese culture, and Polish national style.
Polish modernist masterpieces in the center of Japan
“The narrative presented here revolves around Polish history; its opening chapter is depicted through the creations of Jan Matejko and Artur Grottger. However, most importantly, this period is illuminated by the contributions of Young Poland’s artists. During the transition from the 19th to the 20th century, these artists were instrumental in forging a sense of national identity and ensuring that Poland remained prominent and influential within European artistic circles, even when it was absent as a nation-state on world maps,” states the exhibition catalog.
Included among the displays are creations by esteemed Polish artists like Olga Boznańska, Jacek Malczewski, Józef Mehoffer, Władysław Podkowiński, Józef Pankiewicz, and Stanisław Wyspiański.
Among the artworks visitors can enjoy are Włodzimierz Tetmajer’s “The Artist’s Family,” Leon Wyczółkowski’s “Stańczyk,” and Józef Pankiewicz’s “Czeszysta.” Also featured are several works by Jacek Malczewski such as his ‘Portrait of Feliks Jasieński,’ ‘Girl with Chrysanthemums’ and ‘Florists’ created by Olga Boznańska. Additionally, you’ll find pieces like Alphonse Karpinski’s “Jane with a Japanese Doll” along with various paintings from Wojciech Weiss including “Musicians on the Bridge”, “Poppies,” and “Fears”. Lastly, there is “The Bearded Woman” painted by Władysław Ślewiński.
At the MOMAK exhibition, you can also see two previously unexhibited works by Boznanska: “Tulips” and “Mrs. L’s Portrait.” These pieces were acquired during the artist’s lifetime by Magosaburo Oohara, a renowned Japanese businessman, art collector, and benefactor. Today, they form part of the holdings at the Ohara Museum of Art in Kurosaki, Japan, which houses the entirety of Mr. Oohara’s collection.
The ‘Young Poland’ movement – characterized by revolt, liberty, and self-expression
As art historian and founder of the ‘Outside the Frame’ platform, Maja Michalak points out that Young Poland represents a distinctive and highly varied era in painting. Similar to movements like Young Germany or Young Scandinavia, various regions across Europe adopted analogous names for their artistic trends, aiming to highlight the novelty and pioneering spirit inherent in these styles at the time.
“During this period, the hallmark was the expression of defiance, the urge for liberty, and the aspiration to view art from a new perspective. This also enabled them to showcase what mattered most to each individual artist,” explains Michalak.
“The artists focused more on expressing their personal uniqueness by incorporating the multiple overlapping styles from that era: Art Nouveau, Impressionism, Symbolism, as well as Expressionism. Each artist displayed these influences in somewhat distinct manners,” she explains.
The allure of ‘Japonism’ — a passion that bridged two civilizations.
One distinctive feature of the exhibition in Kyoto is the chance to explore how Japanese aesthetic principles impacted Polish artists over a hundred years ago.
Michalak points out that we must discuss the prevalent Japonisme during this period, an intense attraction to East Asian artistic styles, which captivated many artists. They incorporated various aspects like fans and kimonos—items being brought over and depicted in their works—as well as themes such as dragonflies and peacocks, symbols closely linked to Asian traditions. Additionally, they adopted compositional techniques involving diagonals and increased asymmetry, concepts borrowed from Japanese woodblock prints.
Urszula Kozakowska-Zaucha, the curator of the Kyoto exhibit, highlights the significant contribution made by a prominent Polish art critic and collector toward introducing Japanese art to Poland: “These exceptional artworks are displayed alongside Japanese woodblock prints, illustrating the connection between Polish art and Japan. A key figure featured prominently in this exhibition is Feliks ‘Manggha’ Jasieński, an influential art collector whose personal collection merits its own segment. His enthusiasm for gathering such pieces and his close ties with the Young Poland artists from Kraków helped popularize Japonisme within their circle.”
Jasieński gathered exemplary pieces of Japanese art for his collection, making these works accessible to artists who could borrow them when needed. Ultimately, in 1920, he contributed his complete art collection to the National Museum in Krakow.
He also enlisted artworks from artists influenced by Japan, whom he adored, notes Michalak. The pairing of Young Poland and Japan in this exhibit is intentional. This arrangement could facilitate interaction between the Japanese audience and these pieces since they would recognize cultural components familiar to them.
‘Girl with chrysanthemums’ – the symbol of the exhibition and Boznanska’s renaissance
The promotional materials for the exhibition showcased Olga Boznańska’s painting ‘Girl with Chrysanthemums,’ which stands out as one of the era’s most renowned pieces from the Young Poland movement. This selection appears intentional—Boznańska enjoys renewed acclaim after her passing, and her nuanced, introspective portraits resonate well with modern audiences. Notably, within the animated promotion for the exhibit, the once somber young girl depicted in the artwork now beams joyfully.
Olga Boznańska stands among those female artists who dedicated their entire lives to artistic creation,” says Michalak. “She sought equal chances for creativity just like men do and wished to receive similar treatment from society.” The art critic further notes, “Her career was her top priority, showcasing her strong resolve in this pursuit.
Boznańska lived primarily in Paris, where she gained significant recognition for her emotionally charged portraits that were rich with psychological insight.
“The style of painting is highly distinctive and symbolic of Boznańska’s work. Her skillful technique captures an intimate closeness to the subjects depicted, infused with deep emotional resonance. This approach can be likened to how the Baroque painter Diego Velázquez wielded his brush; indeed, Boznańska drew inspiration from him as well as contemporaries like Édouard Manet, James McNeill Whistler, or Berthe Morisot. Such psychologically nuanced portraiture is quintessential to Olga Boznańska’s legacy,” explains Michalak.
“Generally speaking, I believe that the period known as Young Poland represents one of the finest eras in our country’s artistic history, particularly within Polish painting,” states Michalak. “This era boasts an impressive array of artists whose work is captivating both for its historical significance and the messages they sought to communicate, as well as for its aesthetic value and visual appeal. Be it works by Boznańska, Pankiewicz, Mehoffer, or Ślewiński—these masterpieces exemplify exceptional artistry. In my view, such talent ought to serve as our nation’s cultural ambassador and become synonymous with high-quality Polish paintings internationally.”
The exhibition titled “Young Poland: Polish Art 1890-1918” will remain open in Kyoto up until June 29th.
by admin | Mar 29, 2025 | architecture, cities and towns, culture, tourist attractions, travel destinations
In Jaipur, located in northern India, the pale pink tones of the buildings glow against the hazy sunlight characteristic of Rajasthan. This “Pink City” boasts impressive palaces, historic celestial observatories, and vibrant marketplaces, offering a wealth of architectural marvels and cultural riches. Below is your guide to exploring these must-see attractions!
The Palace of Winds (Hawa Mahal), Jaipur’s grand residence
The Hawa Mahal, known as the Palace of Winds, boasts an astounding pink sandstone exterior at its outset.
heart of Jaipur
Everything remarkable about this opulent monument was constructed in 1799 under Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh. The building essentially serves as an enormous lattice wall designed for allowing royal ladies to view urban activities from within their quarters unseen (as per the era’s strict etiquette).
purdah
Today, it boasts 953 tiny windows, referred to as
jharokhas
Allow the sunlight to enter, casting dramatic shadows. Within, an intricate network of galleries guides you to a terrace that provides a stunning vista of the City Palace and the Jantar Mantar.
The Jantar Mantar observatory: the brilliance of astronomical knowledge
A
UNESCO World Heritage Site
, Jantar Mantar serves as far more than just an observatory; it contains 19 massive astronomical devices within its premises, all situated across an 18-acre area.
th
The century-old brick construction established by Maharaja Jai Singh II includes the colossal Sundial known as the Samrat Yantra, which stands at an impressive height of 27 meters. This remarkable instrument boasts a precise mechanism capable of indicating the time with just a two-second error margin. Adjacent to this, there are two large semi-domes forming the Nari Valaya Yantra. These structures represent the Earth’s northern and southern hemispheres and serve the purpose of calculating time across different regions globally.
The City Palace, the historical and cultural nucleus of Jaipur
Situated at the center of Jaipur, the City Palace is an impressive ensemble constructed in a mix of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. It was established during the 18th century.
th
The century-old palace, established by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, contains a museum filled with an abundance of precious artifacts: intricate fabrics, historic documents, and ritualistic arms that narrate the legacy of the maharajas, the illustrious rulers of Rajasthan. Be sure not to overlook the four lavishly adorned gateways representing different seasons within the Pitam Niwas Chowk courtyard, as well as the Diwan-i Am, which served as a grand pavilion for public gatherings where the maharajas would meet their subjects and visitors.
The Markets of Jaipur, a burst of color and artistry
In Jaipur, the historic district thrives thanks to its artisans, merchants, and intrigued observers who infuse vitality into the conventional bazaars daily. Each
muhalla
The Ramganj Bazar specializes in vibrant leather footwear, whereas Gopalji ka Rasta excels in exquisitely cut semiprecious gemstones. Meanwhile, the Johari Bazaar offers an array of embroidered fabrics, and nearby Kumharon ki Nadi showcases piles of handcrafted ceramics. Lastly, multihued turbans, symbolic of Rajasthan’s heritage, are prominently displayed at Bari Chaupar.
The Albert Hall Museum, a sanctuary of art and culture in Jaipur
Drawing inspiration from Indo-Saracenic design, the grand Albert Hall Museum is situated at the center of Ram Niwas Gardens. Constructed in 1876, this principal museum of Jaipur showcases numerous exhibits such as sculptures, paintings, musical instruments, exquisite textiles, geological specimens, and even an ancient Egyptian mummy. The displays on the ground level delve into Rajasthani customs through presentations featuring puppets and attire, offering visitors insight into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Nahargarh Fort, the quiet sentinel of the Aravalli Hills
Perched atop the Aravelli Hills overlooking the Pink City, Nahargarh Fort provides an awe-inspiring view of the area and insight into Jaipur’s military past. Constructed in 1734, the fortress initially served as protection for the city and offered sanctuary to the royal family during conflicts. The walls and vibrant palaces continue to reflect this protective purpose, with the principal courtyard featuring a delightful sight.
baori
(well-placed). The most striking structure within the complex, the Madhavendra Bhawan Palace, was constructed in the 19th century.
th
for the spouses of Ram Singh II during the century.
Rambagh Palace, a marvel of opulence and heritage
Initially serving as a hunting lodge for the ruling dynasty, Rambagh Palace encapsulates the regal charm of Rajasthan. It was converted into a palace during the early part of the timeline mentioned.
th
A century later, in 1930, it became the primary dwelling of the maharaja. Following India’s independence, it transformed into an opulent hotel. Nowadays, its expansive gardens, grand colonnaded walkways, and stunning Art Deco decorations preserve the essence of its regal heritage. The presence of strutting peafowl enhances this sense of magnificence, particularly when the monsoons arrive. It stands as a site to be marveled at… or reserved for an unparalleled stay!
by admin | Mar 28, 2025 | catholicism, churches, culture, religion, roman catholic church
MORRIS, Indiana—Laboratory tests revealed no extraordinary findings regarding the red markings discovered on a Communion wafer at a Catholic church in Indiana.
The finding at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Morris was significant enough to warrant an official examination, according to the Archdiocese of Indianapolis.
However, a biochemistry analysis showed merely “fungi and three distinct bacterial species, all typically present on human hands,” the archdiocese stated on Monday, also mentioning that no traces of blood were detected.
According to Catholic beliefs, wine and a small piece of bread represent the body and blood of Jesus Christ. Usually, these elements are sanctified by a priest during the Eucharist ceremony.
The bun, marked with red spots, had tumbled out of a Missal set at St. Anthony Church.
“The Catholic Church has numerous well-recorded miracles and appearances throughout its history, and every one of these has undergone rigorous and meticulous examination,” the archdiocese stated.
Small-town excitement
Prior to the examination, several members of St. Anthony Church were enthusiastic about potential discoveries.
“We have this tiny town where you could be driving through and might miss it just by blinking,” said Shari Strassell, a church member, to WKRC-TV.
It holds immense value, it truly does, and I believe there’s something extraordinary about our church up here.
by admin | Mar 28, 2025 | commerce, culture, food and drink, Travel, travel destinations
Our Davao adventure continues!
In my earlier article, I talked about some top places to check out in Davao City—ideal for people who only have a short period to discover the area.
Proceed with the adventure starting from Day 1 by
discovering the culture, food, and picturesque sights of Davao City during this initial day excursion
.
As part of the five-day Marketing Enhancement Program (MEP) arranged by the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines (TPB)—an organization under the Department of Tourism responsible for marketing and establishing the Philippines as a premier global travel spot—this trip is taking place.
Beginning March 12, 2025, the MEP intends to highlight the nation’s prime locations. Beyond merely advertising these sites, this initiative honors cultural and historical aspects of the area, fostering growth for neighborhoods, business owners, craftsmen, and tradition keepers via promotional support, media production, and eco-friendly travel methods.
Find out how the Tourism Promotions Board is showcasing Filipino hospitality through various initiatives.
verifying their touching “Pasasalamat” event at Centro de Turismo in Intramuros
.
To make this idea a reality, TPB gathered tour operators, travel agents, content creators, and media professionals to work together in promoting the selected Community-Based Tourism Sites in Davao and Lake Sebu.
Let’s now explore our second day when we discovered some of the top locations and lesser-known treasures in Davao City and Davao del Sur.
Welcome to Day 2—we’re still in Davao!
Mabuhay ug madayaw!
Uncover all the amazing places we discovered on Day 1 in Davao City—take a look at our
full itinerary here
.
Courtesy Call at the Department of Tourism Regional Office XI
Following a satisfying spread from the breakfast buffet at Dusit Thani Residence Davao and after finalizing an early departure, we all headed over to the Department of Tourism Region XI Office located centrally within the city.
Regional Director Tanya Tan and her team extended a friendly reception to us.
“Welcome to Region XI! Mabuhay ug madayaw! That means, ‘Welcome, beautiful people from… wherever you all came from,’”
She mentioned this in front of everybody within the conference room.
She then added,
Thank you, Sir [Alberto] Gadia from the Tourism Promotions Board, for leading this group here. We’re delighted to have you.
Observe how the Philippines confidently displayed its premier attractions on a global platform.
plunging into the key points of the ASEAN Tourism Forum held in Malaysia.
We also had to go around introducing ourselves—one by one because, honestly, many of us didn’t have a clue who anyone else was! It felt like a playful way to break the ice. Hahaha!
Tan proceeded to focus on the core topic by sharing the most recent developments concerning Davao Tourism. This included detailing current projects and efforts designed to enhance the area’s tourism sector.
She also told the tour operators based in Manila that the Davao area has all the necessary facilities and is entirely prepared to handle various tour packages, including famous spots as well as community-led eco-tourism locations.
We’re strongly advocating for this initiative, so we set up a circuit. Additionally, we held workshops specifically for Davao-based tour operators as part of our efforts to enhance this travel route,
Tan explained.
She emphasized that the upcoming opening of the Mati Airport in Davao Oriental will be crucial for handling the increasing influx of tourists.
If Mati Airport starts offering commercial flights next year, this could present a significant opportunity. We’ve held several workshops with travel agencies who have since presented their plans and schedules. We can link these up with you allowing us all to join forces and make arrangements together—naturally including our team.
she added.
Before departing from the office, they gave us a boxed meal containing spaghetti and bread.
TAKE A LOOK at some photos from our brief yet significant courtesy visit to the Department of Tourism Region XI Office here:
The Malagos Garden Resort along with the Malagos Chocolate Museum
Following our polite visit to the Department of Tourism Region XI office, we headed directly to the extensive and renowned Malagos Garden Resort in Mindanao. This place is famous for its very own cacao plantation as well as its chocolate manufacturing facility.
We’ve highlighted Malagos on Good News Pilipinas multiple times due to its many international awards before the pandemic began. It never crossed my mind that someday I would step inside and wander around its well-manicured premises. During our visit, I shared with our guide how touring this resort felt like coming full circle for me.
Experience international acclaim by
learning about how Malagos Chocolate won 4 gold medals at the International Chocolate Awards
.
Following our meal at the Viewdeck Café, we strolled over to the Chocolate Museum—a first-of-its-kind establishment in this nation. Inside, we received an intensive lesson on chocolate’s past, discovered how chocolates are made, and most delightfully sampled three types of their dark chocolate—ranging from 65% to 85% cocoa!
Mapait, s’yempre!
Yet, as our museum guide mentioned:
If your chocolate tastes sweet, it might not be real chocolate; it could just be a candy bar.
May point!
HERE are some shots from our trip to Malagos Garden Resort and Malagos Chocolate Museum:
Regional Hub for Coffee Innovations and Museum
Following our afternoon feast and delightful exploration at the Chocolate Museum, we bade farewell to Davao City and journeyed deeper into southern Davao del Sur.
Did you know? Even though Davao City falls under the geographical boundaries of Davao del Sur, it functions autonomously as a highly urbanized city with distinct governance structures that set it apart from the province.
MEET Benzone Kennedy Franes Sepe, an Agricultural Technology alumnus from Davao del Sur State College, who managed to cultivate an apple tree in Digos City and reap multiple fruits from it.
The following place we planned to visit was the Coffee Museum. It hadn’t been part of our initial plan, however, upon receiving high recommendations during our courtesy call at the Department of Tourism Region XI Office, we decided we couldn’t miss it.
When our team initially reached the recently built structure behind the Davao del Sur Coliseum, what was meant to be our next move transformed into an unforeseen journey. It didn’t take long before we discovered with surprise that this place wasn’t the Coffee Museum but somewhere entirely different where we seemed to have lost our bearings.
Ah, talaga? We’re still out having fun. Hehe!
Following our reunion with the other teams, we eventually reached the Regional Coffee Innovation Center and Museum—an oasis for coffee enthusiasts. This place can be found within the premises of Davao del Sur State College.
Find motivation in the delightful achievements of nearby agriculturists as
The cocoa experts from Davao have been granted the opportunity to participate in the Paris International Cocoa Awards.
Over there, we encountered the college president, Dr. Augie Fuentes, who, during her welcoming speech, highlighted that coffee education has been incorporated into the syllabus for every program they provide.
Apparently, we aimed to provide it as an optional course, but we chose to allow our students to sign up for the subject instead. As a result, every academic program incorporates coffee education.
she shared.
In addition to functioning as a mere museum, Fuentes emphasized that this place also acts as a promotional platform for local coffee growers and manufacturers in the region.
Find out how Davao is driving progress for tomorrow as the area.
launches its initial DOST center focused on sustainable energy solutions
.
Our coffee originates from our farmers located at Mount Apo. Hence, we serve specialty coffee sourced directly from these local growers.
she added.
In the end, the Regional Coffee Innovation Center and Museum seeks to establish the Philippines as a leading nation in the production of top-tier coffee.
Before moving on to our subsequent stop, I got the opportunity to sample their latte, which was skillfully crafted by the barista at the café located on the second level.
EXPLORE the images from our trip to the Regional Coffee Innovation Center and Museum in Davao del Sur here:
Bagobo-Tagabawa Cultural Village
By the time we arrived, darkness had fallen upon the Bagobo-Tagabawa Cultural Village, which sits nestled at the base of Mount Apo in Tibolo, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur.
As we made our way uphill towards the hall perched on the slope, we were welcomed by the resonant tones of local gong instruments. Once we arrived at the hall, I had the privilege of watching young Bagobo-Tagabawa performers executing their customary dances.
As someone who used to be a Filipino folk dancer, this scene felt like coming full circle—there was a time when I danced these very steps, and now I was watching them being performed authentically. Observing how they executed every move with strength and accuracy added profound depth to my experience.
Observe a seldom instance of optimism for animals in their natural habitat as
A newborn Philippine eagle has emerged at the conservation facility in Davao.
.
They also familiarized us with their traditional cuisine. We sampled various dishes they offered, which included
Manok na Nilotlot sa Gatas
, a poultry meal prepared inside a bamboo stalk; barbecued
bangus
; Chayote leaf salad; and
luddong
, a dish made with taro and coconut milk akin to the
laing
of the Bicolanos.
The refreshing climate, the heartfelt greeting, the customary performance, along with the robust tastes of their dishes—the visit we had at the Bagobo-Tagabawa Cultural Village in Davao del Sur was truly unforgettably amazing!
CHECK out my pictures of the Bagobo-Tagabawa kids below:
TUNE IN to see the enchanting traditional dance of Bagobo-Tagabawa kids—a warm greeting for visitors! You can view their complete show right here:”
Big 8 Corporate Hotel
On day two, we concluded our trip at the Big 8 Corporate Hotel, where we enjoyed a pleasant stay right in the center of Davao del Sur’s main city. Our tour guides and organizers made sure that checking in went smoothly.
I swiftly grabbed my keycard and made my way up to the tenth-floor room. Inside, I mused, “Yet another day at a different hotel; tomorrow we’ll be checking out for our next location.” Yet, what really stood out was the magnificent chandelier adorning the lobby—a stunning view indeed!
And it wasn’t only my vision that got a delightful experience; dinner was equally impressive. We savored beloved Filipino dishes like
pancit
, grilled
bangus
with
atchara
, and
halo-halo
—A genuine fiesta feast and the ideal way to conclude the day.
When 9 PM arrived, we were all set to head back to our individual rooms for some well-deserved sleep.
Sapagkat madaling araw ang takbong panayuhan at magmamaneho na naman bukas.
HERE are some of the pictures I captured while we were staying at the Big 8 Corporate Hotel:
That concludes our exciting Day 2! Big thanks go out to the TPB team, our fantastic tour guides, proficient drivers, and everybody who helped make our trip from Davao City right through to Digos City an unforgettable experience.
Tune in for Day 3 of CBT in Davao del Sur and South Cotabato—coming soon!
SANGGRALOKA
!
Find more
Good Travel
tales and spread this tale among travel lovers!
Join our vibrant
Good News Pilipinas community
, where we honor the accomplishments of the Philippines and Filipinos across the globe! As the
Philippines’ No. 1 Website
For great news and esteemed victors of the
Gold Anvil Award
and
Lasallian Scholarum Award
We encourage you to join us, participate, and tell us about the remarkable tales that inspire you. Let’s highlight together the narratives that fill Filipinos with pride.
The post
Brewing Memories: Chocolate, Coffee, and Cultural Discoveries in Davao City & Davao del Sur | Atom Pornel
appeared first on
SANGGRALOKA
.
by admin | Mar 27, 2025 | animals, cattle, culture, livestock, news
Endangered Welsh cattle with a lineage tracing back over 1,000 years could become extinct, according to a conservation group.
The Ancient Cattle of Wales breed has been included in the Rare Breeds Survival Trust’s (RBST) priority list in their newest watchlist, indicating it is now in critical condition and requires immediate attention to secure its future existence.
The RBST mentioned that these robust farm creatures possess significant characteristics, including their role as an efficient beef breed known for producing high-quality meat and thriving in poorer quality pastures of the upland areas.
This breed is also highly effective for conservation grazing, aiding in natural preservation efforts.
The organization stated that the breed currently faces a “critical state,” marked by a worrying decrease in the registration of new calves and the dismantling of multiple well-established herds due to retiring owners.
The breed boasts an ancient lineage, as records show the existence of colored cattle in Wales traceable back to the era of Welsh King Hywel Dda in the 10th century, according to the RBST.
The mid-size cattle, featuring sizable ears and soft, dense fur, come in six color varieties: they can be white with black or red markings, belted, entirely red, blue-toned, smoke-colored, or mouse-colored. Additionally, there’s a pattern known as “line back,” where the animal displays any of these colors alongside a distinctive white stripe running down its back, tail, and underbelly.
Specific hues were often favored in particular regions; however, their popularity waned over time. Eventually, the ancient cattle of Wales were maintained and propagated solely at a handful of isolated upland farms across the country.
In the 1970s, a cluster of farmers pinpointed the surviving colored livestock in the Welsh hillsides. Since being established in 1981, the Ancient Cattle of Wales Society (Gwartheg Hynafol Cymru) has meticulously documented the breed, compiled a herdsbook for pedigreed animals, and strived towards boosting their numbers.
Christopher Price, the trust’s chief executive, stated: “This particular breed excels at conservation grazing which benefits both the environment and biodiversity. Additionally, it serves as an economically viable option for raising beef in hilly and upland regions.”
Nevertheless, there has been a genuinely worrying decrease in newborn registrations over recent years, along with multiple long-standing herds being dissolved after their owners retired.
“The breed currently faces a critical situation,” he stated. “Our ultimate aim is to see the breed flourish once more; these robust cattle could play an essential role in sustainable agriculture in the UK, where producing food aligns closely with environmental preservation.”
-
Severe Weather Causes Major Financial Losses for Farmers, Report Shows
-
Concerns Grow Over Potential Drying Up of 19th-Century Canal Within Days
-
A cow had four calves in a ‘one-in-11 million’ birth.
Page 5 of 19« First«...34567...10...»Last »
