श्रृंगार: The Untold History of Indian Beauty | Narayani Podcast

What was Shringar in ancient India? Was it only makeup, or was it connected with culture, health, spirituality, clothing, ornaments, fragrance, rituals and identity? In this episode of Narayani Podcast, host Sushma Santosh Ojha speaks with Dr. Smita Sudhir Hote, a Sanskrit scholar, researcher and retired professor, about the fascinating history of प्रसाधन आणि अलंकरण in Sanskrit literature. Dr. Smita Hote has completed M.A., B.Ed., M.Phil. and Ph.D. in Sanskrit from Nagpur University. She is a retired Associate Professor and former Head of the Sanskrit Department at L.A.D. College for Women, Nagpur, with 33 years of teaching experience. She has written and edited several Sanskrit and Marathi works, including “संस्कृत साहित्यांतील प्रसाधन आणि अलंकरण”, and has contributed actively to Sanskrit research, theatre, language promotion and academic publications. In this conversation, we explore references from ancient texts such as the Vedas, Ramayana, Mahabharata, Natya Shastra, Sushruta Samhita, Kamasutra, Brihat Samhita and Meghadoot to understand how ancient India looked at beauty, grooming, clothing and adornment. From kajal, kumkum, alta, alankar, hair dressing, perfumes, ornaments, ear piercing, garments, garlands and bridal shringar, this episode reveals that Shringar was never just “makeup” — it was a complete cultural tradition. Watch the full episode to discover The History Behind श्रृंगार. Host: Sushma Santosh Ojha Guest: Dr. Smita Sudhir Hote Podcast: Narayani Podcast Don’t forget to like, share, and spread awareness about this vital topic. 👉 Like 👍 | Share 🔁 | Subscribe 🔔 मराठी संस्कृती, इतिहास आणि विज्ञानाविषयी आणखी व्हिडिओसाठी चॅनेलला सबस्क्राईब करा. 🔗 Connect With Us 🎥 Watch Short Clips Here: / @narayaniclips 📸 Follow on Instagram: / narayanipodcast Subscribe to Narayani Podcast for more meaningful conversations in Marathi and Hindi. #Shringar #IndianBeauty #AncientIndia #Sanskrit #NarayaniPodcast #SushmaOjha #IndianCulture #AncientIndianMakeup #BeautyTraditions #Ramayana #Mahabharata #NatyaShastra #SanskritLiterature #MarathiPodcast