Tag Archives: Culture

Meaning of Place Names: Why do we call places by certain names?

Behind every name is a story, and this goes for place names too. Although each individual place has a unique specific definition, there are some common components and terms for the names of English-speaking cities, towns and settlements. Knowing the … Continue reading

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Bindis: Why do Indians wear a red dot on their forehead?

Aside from beautiful saris and magnificent gold jewellery one of the most internationally famous body adornments worn by Indian women is the red dot on the forehead, the bindi. Travelling in India you might notice that these forehead decorations are … Continue reading

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History of the Cowboy Hat: Why do Cowboys Wear Hats?

Ever asked yourself: “Why do cowboys wear hats?”. Here’s a brief history of the cowboy hat which should answer your question!

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Jewish New Year: What’s the meaning of Rosh Hashana and Rosh Hashana traditions?

When September rolls round you know the autumn is approaching, the beginning of the school year is near and for Jewish people, September means that Rosh Hashanah is soon to be upon them. What is Rosh Hashanah? “Rosh Hashanah” literally … Continue reading

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Tying the knot: Why do we say we tie the knot when we get married?

You hear your cousin gush about finally going to “tie the knot” with her boyfriend, and as you hear this, you automatically substitute “tie the knot” with “getting married” in your head. But if you pause for a minute, you … Continue reading

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Why marry? Why should I get married?

In our facebook generation, when you reach your mid-20s and thereafter you start noticing that your facebook feed becomes inundated with wedding photos and status changes. Getting married in your mid-20s isn’t something new. Back in Ancient Greece, men were … Continue reading

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The History of Jewelry: Why do we wear jewelry?

Many of us wear jewelry every day without a second thought, but it’s an interesting question considering how this habit of jewelry wearing began. What was the meaning of jewelry to our earlier ancestors and how did the history of … Continue reading

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Favourite colors: Why do I like the color orange? (or why do I hate orange?)

Orange is one of the least liked colors in existence. What makes you like the color orange or hate it? According to the ancient Indian Chakra Theory, loving or hating the color orange are two sides of the same coin. … Continue reading

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Mile history, origin and etymology: Why do we have miles?

Did you ever wonder how a mile came to be our measurement of distance? And why is it called a mile anyway?

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Why do American Football Players and Baseball players have black paint drawn under their eyes?

If you’re like me and don’t know much about American football or baseball, you may find yourself wondering why these football or baseball players are sometimes shown wearing war-paint-like black lines under their eyes. Is it done to intimidate the … Continue reading

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