Christmas

The word Christmas comes from the Old English term Cristes maesse, meaning “Christ’s mass.” This was the name for the festival service of worship held on December 25 (January 7 in many Eastern Orthodoxor Eastern Rite churches) to commemorate the birth of Jesus. Although it is accepted that Jesus was born in the small town of Bethlehem a few miles south of Jerusalem, there is no certain information on the date of his birth, not even of the year. One reason for this uncertainty is that the stories of his birth, recorded in the gospels of Matthew and Luke, were written several decades after the event, and those who wrote about it gave no specific dates.

For several centuries the Christian church itself paid little attention to the celebration of Jesus’ birth. The major Christian festival was Easter, the day of his Resurrection. This was understood as his true “birthday” because it was the day of his birth in heaven. Only gradually, as the church developed a calendar to commemorate the major events of the life of Jesus, did it celebrate his birth.

The earliest celebrations of the birth of Jesus were often associated with the date of his baptism or his Crucifixion. Some early Christians believed that his death occurred on March 25 and was the same day as his conception. As a result, his birth nine months later would have been December 25. Another early practice involved celebration of his birthday on the date of his baptism, January 6. The day was named Epiphany, meaning “appearance,” the day of Jesus’ manifestation. The Western church, based in Rome, chose December 25. The earliest reference to this date is from the year 221, though it was not then an important date in the calendar. Christmas was celebrated on December 25 in Rome as early as ad 336 according to an ancient Roman almanac.

In the latter half of the 4th century, the Eastern and Western churches adopted each other’s festivals, thus establishing the modern Christian 12-day celebration from Christmas to Epiphany. In some places the 12th day is called the festival of the three kings because it is believed that the three Wise Men, or Magi, visited the infant Jesus on that day, bringing him gifts.

Today Christmas is more than a one-day celebration or a 12-day festival. In the United States the holiday season begins on Thanksgiving Day and ends on January 1. Sweden starts its celebration on December 13, Saint Lucia’s Day, with a special family breakfast served by the oldest daughter. Festivities in most countries conclude on or before January 6.

The reason for this extended holiday period is that Christmas is no longer only a religious festival. It is also one of the most popular holiday periods for everyone in countries where Christianity has become the dominant religion. Even in Japan, where Christianity is a minority religion, Christmas has become a festive, gift-giving holiday time.

Corruption in Nagaland.

Corruption in Nagaland: Causes & consequences

Nagaland boasts a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscape. However, beneath the surface beauty lies the pressing concern that has plagued the State for decades. Like any part of the world, the practice of Corruption is widespread in Nagaland. It is like a Cancer in public life, which has not become too rampant and perpetuated overnight, but in course of time. Corruption has been defined in many different ways, but the most popular and the simplest definition of corruption is given by the World Bank. According to this definition, corruption is “the abuse of public office for private gain”.
Corruption is omnipotent and has progressively become rampant in Naga society. As the State grows, the corrupt also grow to invent new methods of cheating the public. The followings are some of the major causes of corruption:

1. Corruption at the high level are usually the politicians, because these people are generally well-off and a lot more privileges associated with their high office as compared to others. So, their corrupt behaviour is not attributed to meet the needs of their families, but rather to quench their thirst of greed and self-interest.
2. Insufficient checks and balance of public servant, law enforcement bodies, and lack of transparency in public offices creates opportunities for public officials to engage in malpractices.
3. In a high inflation economy and an insufficient salaries for government servants, corrupt practices are driven by necessity to meet the expenses of their families.
4. The negligence and remiss behaviour of government servants is another factor, which often compels the public to bribe/pay a certain amount to get their work done.
5. With the rising number of educated unemployed youth each year and the lack of job opportunities, the level of competition to get a government job rises to a whole new dimension. And as such, biased selection of employees for jobs through illegal means like bribery, favouritism and nepotism is involved.
6. Corruption has increased unceasingly, and the old ideals of honesty, service, morality and ethical values and qualities are regarded obsolete.
7. Election is perhaps the biggest cause of corruption. funding of election campaigns, Bribery to politicians buys influences and bribery by politicians to buys votes is perhaps the root causes of corruption.
8. And finally, the tolerance of people towards corruption, complete lack of public outcry against corruption and the absence of strong public forum to fight against corruption allow corruption to continue as it is.
   Consequences of Corruption:
   Corruption in Nagaland, like any other State of India, is as much a moral and ethical issues. It can slant the entire mechanism of allocation of resources meant for development, investment projects, commercial transactions, economy, political and election system, etc. Funds meant for the public like healthcare, infrastructure, education often ends up in the pockets of the corrupt leaders which in turn, results in poor quality of service and infrastructure. It thus, contributes to a large fiscal deficit for the State, making it more difficult for the State government to have an efficient fiscal policy.
   Corruption also play a huge role in income inequality. The rich become richer and the poor poorer. The modus operandi of those in well positioned individuals is simple. They exploit and take advantage of their office for personal gain, at the cost of the common public in the society.
   Despite active participation by the Election Commission, Church bodies and different Organizations in ‘Clean Election Movement’, the illegal and unethical practices such as proxy voting and voting in return for bribes is again, another huge impact of corruption.
   With the increase in political and bureaucratic non-accountability, sometimes even the individuals tends to take part in corrupt and unethical practices and transactions. And that frustration often leads to let individuals think that “If everybody is doing it, I might as well do it”.
   We often see many new emerging leaders with their determination to eradicate corruption, but sooner or later, they themselves become amassing huge wealth through malpractices. They become materialistic and money-oriented.

Nagaland(India)

Nagaland, state of India, lying in the hills and mountains of the northeastern part of the country. It is one of the smaller states of India. Nagaland is bounded by the Indian states of Arunachal Pradesh to the northeast, Manipur to the south, and Assam to the west and northwest and the country of Myanmar (Burma) to the east. The state capital is Kohima, located in the southern part of Nagaland. Area 6,401 square miles (16,579 square km). Pop (2011) 1,978,502.

Relief and drainage

Nearly all of Nagaland is mountainous. In the north the Naga Hills rise abruptly from the Brahmaputra valley to about 2,000 feet (610 metres) and then increase in elevation toward the southeast to more than 6,000 feet (1,830 metres). The mountains merge with the Patkai Range, part of the Arakan system, along the Myanmar border, reaching a maximum height of 12,552 feet (3,826 metres) at Mount Saramati. The region is deeply dissected by rivers: the Doyang and Dikhu in the north, the Barak in the southwest, and the tributaries of the Chindwin River (in Myanmar) in the southeast.

Climate

Nagaland has a monsoonal (wet-dry) climate. Annual rainfall averages between 70 and 100 inches (1,800 and 2,500 mm) and is concentrated in the months of the southwest monsoon (May to September). Average temperatures decrease with greater elevation; in the summer temperatures range from the low 70s F (about 21–23 °C) to the low 100s F (about 38–40 °C), while in the winter they rarely drop below 40 °F (4 °C), though frost is common at higher elevations. Humidity levels are generally high throughout the state.

Plant and animal life

Forests cover about one-sixth of Nagaland. Below 4,000 feet (1,220 metres) are tropical and subtropical evergreen forests, containing palms, rattan, and bamboo, as well as valuable timber species (notably mahogany). Coniferous forests are found at higher elevations. Areas cleared for jhum (shifting cultivation) have a secondary growth of high grass, reeds, and scrub jungle.

Population composition

The Nagas, an Indo-Asiatic people, form more than 20 tribes, as well as numerous subtribes, and each one has a specific geographic distribution. Though they share many cultural traits, the tribes have maintained a high degree of isolation and lack cohesion as a single people. The Konyaks are the largest tribe, followed by the Aos, Tangkhuls, Semas, and Angamis. Other tribes include the Lothas, Sangtams, Phoms, Changs, Khiamniungams, Yimchungres, Zeliangs, Chakhesangs (Chokri), and Rengmas.

Cultural life

Tribal organization varies from the autocratic angs (chiefs) of the Konyaks and hereditary chieftainships of the Semas and Changs to the democratic structures of the Angamis, Aos, Lothas, and Rengmas. A prominent village institution is the morung (a communal house or dormitory for young unmarried men), where skulls and other trophies of war formerly were hung. The pillars are still carved with striking representations of tigers, hornbills, and human and other figures. Women hold a relatively high and honourable position in Naga society. They work in the fields on equal terms with men and have considerable influence in the tribal councils. A central feature of Naga life is the Feast of Merit, a series of ceremonies culminating with the sacrifice of a mithan (a domesticated guar). Each tribe has its gennas, or festivals, and Naga dance, music, song, and folklore all express an exuberant concern for life.

Naga King Chilli🌶🌶🌶

Title: Naga King Chilli: Exploring the Reign of the World's Hottest Pepper

Introduction

Prepare to embark on a journey into the realm of extreme spiciness as we unveil the captivating story of the Naga King Chilli. Also known as the Bhut Jolokia, this fiery pepper has earned its rightful place in the world of superhot peppers, boasting a heat that can leave even the most seasoned spice enthusiasts gasping for air. In this blog, we'll delve into the origins, characteristics, culinary applications, and the undeniable allure of the Naga King Chilli.

Origins and Discovery

The Naga King Chilli traces its roots to the northeastern regions of India, where it has been cultivated for generations. Specifically found in the Indian states of Assam, Nagaland, and Manipur, this pepper has been a staple in local cuisines and traditional remedies. It wasn't until the 21st century that the Western world began to take notice of its mind-boggling heat.

Heat That Defies Conventional Scales

The Naga King Chilli has shattered records and scorched palates with its astronomical heat levels. With Scoville Heat Unit ratings that can range from 800,000 to over 1,000,000 SHU, it has often held the title of the world's hottest pepper. To put this in perspective, even the fiery habanero pepper pales in comparison, usually measuring around 100,000 to 350,000 SHU.

Culinary and Medicinal Uses

In the northeastern regions of India, the Naga King Chilli has been used for both culinary and medicinal purposes. It finds its way into chutneys, pickles, and traditional dishes to provide an intense kick and a distinct flavor profile. Additionally, locals have harnessed its heat for its potential health benefits, including digestive and pain relief properties. It can also be used as relief for asthma patients at low quantities.

Cultivating and Harvesting

The cultivation of Naga King Chillies is both a traditional practice and a commercial endeavor in the northeastern states of India. Despite the challenging growing conditions, the plant thrives in the region's subtropical climate. The peppers are typically harvested when they reach full maturity, often transitioning from green to vibrant shades of red, yellow, or orange.

Respecting the Heat

It's crucial to handle Naga King Chillies with the utmost care. The intense heat they carry can lead to painful skin irritation and discomfort, and accidental contact with eyes or sensitive areas should be avoided at all costs. Wearing gloves and taking precautions while cooking with these peppers is highly recommended.

Drying Naga King Chilli, also known as Bhut Jolokia, is a common method to preserve its heat and flavor for extended use. Here's a simple guide to the drying

1. **Harvesting:** Pick fully ripe Naga King Chillies from the plant. They should have a vibrant color, usually red, orange, or yellow, depending on the variety.

2. **Preparation:** Wear gloves to protect your hands from the intense heat of the chillies. Cut off the stems, and if desired, slit the chillies lengthwise to help them dry faster and evenly.

3. **Air Drying:** One of the simplest methods is to air dry the chillies. This method requires a dry and warm location with good airflow. You can use a string or thread to thread the chillies together, creating a garland-like arrangement. Hang the chillies in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. The drying process might take a few weeks, depending on humidity levels.

4. **Oven Drying:** If you don't have a dehydrator, you can use an oven. Place the chillies on a baking sheet in a single layer. Set your oven to the lowest possible temperature, often around 150°F (65°C), and prop the oven door open slightly to allow moisture to escape. Regularly check and turn the chillies for even drying.

5. **Sun Drying:** In regions with consistently high temperatures and low humidity, sun drying can be effective. However, this method requires a lot of attention to prevent spoilage. Place the chillies on a clean surface, like a wire rack, and keep them in direct sunlight. Bring them indoors during the night or if there's a chance of rain.

6. **Storage:** Once the chillies are completely dried, they should be brittle to the touch. Allow them to cool before handling. Store the dried chillies in an airtight container, preferably in a cool, dark place. Avoid using plastic bags, as they might retain moisture.

Remember that dried Naga King Chillies will retain their intense heat, so use them sparingly in your dishes. When rehydrating for use, soak them in warm water for about 20 minutes before chopping or grinding. 

Smoked dried king chilli

Oven dried king chilli

Conclusion

The Naga King Chilli stands as a testament to the diversity and complexity of the culinary world. Its journey from a traditional ingredient in northeastern Indian kitchens to global notoriety is a tale of heat, flavor, and the enduring fascination humans have with pushing the boundaries of taste. As you contemplate your next culinary adventure, remember that while the Naga King Chilli may reign supreme in the world of spiciness, it demands the utmost respect and Caution in it's presence.

Dengue fever

 Dengue fever is a tropical and sub tropical viral illness around the world caused by the dengue virus. This virus is transmitted primarily through the bite of inflected Aedes mosquitoes. Aedes mosquitoes are visually distinctive with noticeable black and white markings on their bodies and legs. Unlike most other mosquitoes, they are active and bite only during the daytime. 

Symptoms

It typically appear 4 to 10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Mild cases of dengue fever often manifest as high fever, severe headache, fatigue, joint and muscle pain, pain behind the eyes, rash and mild bleeding, like nose bleeds and gum bleeding. In more severe cases , dengue fever can progress to dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). Symptoms of these severe forms may include: severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding under the skin, difficulty in breathing, circulatory collapse and organ failure. 

Treatment 

There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue fever, but supportive care is essential to manage the symptoms amd complications. Patients are advised to stay hydrated, manage pain and fever with over-the-counter medication amd rest. If dengue progresses to severe forms like dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) or dengue shock syndrome (DSS), hospitalization is often necessary.

Prevention

Prevention of dengue fever primarily revolves around controlling mosquito populations and avoiding mosquito bites. Measures include using mosquito repellents, wearing protective clothing and using mosquito nets. Eliminating mosquito breeding sites, such as stagnant water containers is crucial.

In conclusion, dengue fever is a viral illness transmitted by mosquitoes, causing a range of symptoms from mild fever and pain to severe bleeding and shock. There is no specific antiviral treatment and supportive care is essential. Prevention focuses on avoiding mosquito bites and eliminating breeding sites. Monitoring symptoms and seeking medical attention promptly is important to manage the disease effectively.