Introduction

So it all started when I was preparing for my GMAT essay in Bangalore back in Jan-2012.One of the topics that were asked in the previous exams, that struck the gong of my thinking bell was

"Why is it important to know your roots?" 

Though the question was quite straight forward,when I started to write about this topic, I found myself hesitant and confused.I couldn't clearly reason out and put in words,why was it important to for me to know my roots. This question has haunted me ever since. With time I took some very objective and brave decisions in my life,and every time I introspected the reason or the thought process of my decisions I could clearly map the answers to my roots. 

My name is Akshat Joshi.Though I was born in Allahabad and brought up in Lucknow, I belong to the legendary Joshi (Brahmin clan) of Danya(Almora). I did some research around my roots and found that during early days  many Maharashtri brahmins went on pilgrimage and settled in Prayag (Allahabad) and Kashi. They were involved in academic activities (eg: Studying of Vedas and Puranas) and mastered in Astrology.In the 14th Century the Katyri Kings of Uttaranchal region invited them to Almora (their capital) and allotted them Villages (Danya,Budhimanya) in exchange of their priestly duties.These priests were held in great regard by the Chand rulers too who succeeded the Katyuris.

The more I know about my roots, the more I add to my self-esteem. Every time I'm down and out I recall the land I come from, the land of Kumaon , which is pure in air and spirit. It has the origins to the Holy Ganges and time and again has been the place where mankind has found salvation. Realizing that I belong to such a place fills me with hope and faith to face the world. 

This blog is for everyone who wants to explore Kumaon in terms of its People,Culture,History, Tourism,Mythology and any other thing So let the fun begin.