THE AMAZEUM NEWSLETTER
Winter Edition
As chilly winds sweep through the day, Welcome to Amazeum’s Winter newsletter, hooray!
Hot picks
- Winter Wildlife of India
- DIY Rangoli Patterns
- Traditional Winter Games
- Winter Weather Science
- Community Service Ideas
5. Dolphins in the Ganga
The Ganges River, one of the most sacred and iconic rivers in India, is home to a unique and fascinating species of freshwater dolphin known as the Gangetic Dolphin or Platanista Gangetica.. These dolphins are often referred to as the "Susu" or "Soons" locally due to the sound they make when surfacing to breathe.
6. Malabar Pied Hornbills
In the Western Ghats, you can find the Malabar Pied Hornbill, a striking bird with a large, brightly colored bill. These hornbills are more active during the cooler months, and if you're lucky, you might spot them perched on treetops or flying through the forest.
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Traditional Winter Games
As winter embraces India, a tapestry of traditions and outdoor activities awakens. From the snowy Himalayas in the north to milder winters down south, India's rich heritage and diverse geography bring forth a range of traditional winter games. These age-old pastimes not only keep us active but also deepen our connection to our cultural heritage. Join us in exploring some of India's beloved traditional winter games.
1.Gulli Danda is a game deeply rooted in Indian culture, It requires just two wooden sticks, the 'gulli' and 'danda.' One player hits the gulli into the air with the danda, aiming to send it as far as possible and complete a circuit by touching designated points without opponents catching the gulli.
2. Kho-Kho is a traditional tag sport enjoyed by all. It is a fast-paced outdoor game where two teams take turns chasing and dodging each other. The game requires agility, strategy, and teamwork. It's a delightful way to spend a sunny winter afternoon in the playground.
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3. Kabaddi a popular traditional sport in India, particularly in rural areas, is a contact sport where two teams take turns sending a 'raider' into the opposing half, chanting 'kabaddi, kabaddi.' The raider aims to tag opponents and return without being tackled, blending physical prowess, strategy, and quick thinking.
4. Lagori (Seven Stones): A traditional Indian game with a small ball and seven flat stones. One team aims to knock down the stacked stones with the ball, while the other defends. Lagori requires coordination, agility, and aiming skills, making it a popular outdoor game during the winter season.
5. Pachisi (Ludo) is a traditional board game that people often enjoy during the winter months. It's a game of strategy and luck, where players roll dice to move their pieces across the board. The goal is to reach the center while avoiding opponents' pieces. Pachisi is a fun and social game that can be played indoors on a cold winter evening.
6. Elephant and the Mahout (Hathi Aur Mahavat): This traditional Indian game is often played during picnics or family gatherings. One person plays the "elephant" while the rest are "mahouts." The goal is for the mahouts to catch the elephant. The elephant can move by taking large steps, while the mahouts can only take small steps. It's a game that combines strategy, coordination, and a lot of laughter.
7. Kite Flying: Not a game, but a cherished winter tradition, especially during festivals like Makar Sankranti. People gather on rooftops, flying kites and engaging in friendly string-cutting competitions. The colorful kites paint the skies, and the sound of cut strings is a quintessential winter melody across India.
Traditional Indian winter games offer not just entertainment but also a deep sense of community and cultural pride. As winter returns, these games rekindle cherished memories, celebrating the season's joy. From kite flying to chasing the gulli, these games remain integral to India's winter tradition, passed down through generations. So, this winter, gather friends and family to relive the timeless joy of these pastimes
Games of the world
Match the following :
Hockey
Tennis
Ludo
Chess
Winter Wildlife of India
Winter is a magical time in India, especially when it comes to wildlife. While most of us bundle up in cozy clothes, the animals of India come out to play. Join us as we explore the unique adaptations of Indian animals, creating beautiful natural spectacles.
1. The Great Indian Bustard :
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In the vast open grasslands of western India, you might spot this magnificent bird. These large birds are known for their regal appearance, with long legs and a striking black crown on their heads. Winter is the perfect time to catch a glimpse of them as they forage for food, making it an excellent birdwatching opportunity for kids and families.
2. Migratory Birds :
India becomes a winter haven for countless migratory birds. From the Siberian Crane to the Bar-headed Goose, these winged wonders travel thousands of miles to escape the harsh winters of their native lands. You can find them in India's wetlands, lakes, and rivers, especially in places like Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan and the Chilika Lake in Odisha.
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3. Snow Leopards of the Himalayas :
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One of the most elusive and beautiful creatures in the world, the Snow Leopard, is found in the Himalayan region of India. Known for their striking spotted fur, these big cats have adapted to the cold, high-altitude terrain. While spotting a snow leopard is incredibly rare, the idea that they might be watching you from a rocky ledge can make any winter trek an exciting adventure.
4. The Chital Deer
With its elegant spotted coat, the Chital deer, also known as the Spotted Deer, is a common sight in India's forests. Winter is an excellent time to observe them, as their distinctive spots stand out amidst the dry, deciduous forests. These gentle creatures are a favorite among wildlife enthusiasts and are often seen alongside other forest animals.
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DIY Rangoli Patterns
Rangoli, a timeless Indian art, graces doorways and public spaces during festivities. Handcrafted with vibrant powders, delicate petals, grains of rice, or sand, these intricate designs are a symphony of colors. 'Rangoli' comes from 'rang' (color) and 'aavalli' (row of colors), reflecting its essence. Let's explore DIY rangoli and craft your masterpiece!
Materials You'll Need:
Rangoli Powder: Traditionally, rangoli is made using colored powders, which are available in various shades at stores. You can also make your own colors by crushing and sieving rice, turmeric, or other edible, non-toxic substances.
Design Ideas: Start by choosing a rangoli design or pattern. You can find plenty of inspiration online or create your own. Traditional designs often include motifs like flowers, birds, peacocks, and geometric shapes.
Tools: You'll need tools to help you create precise patterns. Common tools include rangoli stencils, cones, or simple everyday objects like cotton swabs, spoons, or your fingers.
Tips for Creating Stunning Rangoli:
1. Choose the Right Colors: Use colors that complement each other and create a visually appealing contrast. Bright and contrasting colors work best.
2. Practice Makes Perfect: If you're new to rangoli, start with simple designs and gradually work your way up to more intricate patterns.
3. Embrace Imperfections: Remember that rangoli is not about perfection but about self-expression and creativity. Each design is unique and beautiful in its own way.
4. Get Inspired: Explore rangoli patterns from various regions of India to discover the rich diversity of this art form.
5. Safety First: If using colored powders, ensure they are non-toxic and safe for your skin and surroundings.
Crafting your own rangoli is a creative way to connect with Indian culture and traditions. Be it for a special occasion, festival, or artistic expression, it adds color and positivity to your life and surroundings. Gather your materials, get inspired, and start crafting your rangoli masterpiece!
Here are some of the simple Rangoli patterns for you to try.
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Color the Rangoli using your favorite colors.
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Amazeum Halloween Party Pictures
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Community Service Ideas
Winter Weather Science
Make Your Own Frost!
Creating DIY ghost bubbles is a fun and spooky science experiment that kids will love. Here's an easy way to make them:
Materials You'll Need:
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A] clean glass or plastic container
B] Water
C] Ice cubes
D] Salt
E] Food coloring (optional)
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Instructions:
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Fill your container with water, leaving some space at the top. Drop a few ice cubes into the water. Make sure they float on the surface. Now, sprinkle a pinch of salt onto the ice cubes. Watch closely and see what happens. You can add a drop of food coloring if you like to make it more colorful.
What's Happening:
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When you add salt to the ice cubes, it lowers the freezing point of the water. In other words, it makes the ice melt. As the ice melts, it cools down the water, causing the water vapor in the air to condense on the surface of the glass. This condensation is what we call "frost." So, you've created frost right before your eyes, just like the frosty patterns on your window!
Embracing the spirit of giving during the winter season can create lasting memories and instill valuable lessons about compassion and kindness. Here are some kid-friendly community service ideas for winter.
1. Blanket and Warm Clothing Drives:
Collect gently used blankets, sweaters, and warm clothing from your family and friends. Distribute these items to homeless individuals or families in need. You can collaborate with local NGOs or set up a donation drive in your neighborhood.
2. Winter Food Drives:
Organize a food drive focusing on winter essentials like rice, lentils, and non-perishable foods. These items can be distributed to underprivileged families to help them stay warm and well-fed during the cold months.
4. Feeding Stray Animals:
Prepare simple meals like rice and dal (lentils) or feed stray dogs in your neighborhood. Animals also struggle to find food during the winter, and your efforts can make a significant difference.
3. Collect and Donate Books:
Organize a book drive to collect books and educational materials. Donate them to schools or libraries in less privileged areas to support learning during the winter months.
6. Cleanup Drives:
Organize cleanup drives in local parks or public spaces to maintain cleanliness during winter. Cleaning up public areas not only makes the environment more pleasant but also prevents pollution.
5. DIY Bird Feeders:
Craft simple bird feeders using materials like corn, peanuts birdseeds etc. Hang them in your garden or around the community to provide food for birds during the colder months.
Engaging in community service during the winter season can teach children the importance of empathy, generosity, and social responsibility. These activities provide an excellent opportunity for kids to connect with their community and spread the warmth of love and compassion during the cold months.
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Childs Name: Anika Paralikar
Amazeum Art Corner
Email us your child's art on info@amazeum.in to get featured in the Amazeum newsletter.
Puzzle Wuzzle Can you solve?
Unscramble the anagrams to reveal words related to Deepawali. Each anagram has been jumbled, and it's up to you to rearrange the letters to find the correct words. Here's your Deepawali anagram challenge:
* NRAGLOI
* YDIA
* TVIEFSE
* ALMPS
* SLGHTI
* RANGOLI
* DIYA
* FESTIVE
* LAMPS
* LIGHTS
Amazeum Moments
Welcome to "Amazeum Moments: A Journey in Pictures" – a captivating visual adventure that captures the essence of our wonderful Amazeum Children's Museum.
Amazeum is Pune's first and only children's museum with interactive and unique exhibits that not only provide a fun creative space but also help in having a unique learning experience.
