History | Ancient History on Instagram: "The meeting between Vasco da Gama and the Zamorin of Calicut in 1498 marked a defining moment in world history, symbolizing the beginning of the European colonial era and the transformation of global trade. When da Gama arrived on the Malabar Coast of India after navigating around the Cape of Good Hope, he became the first European to reach India by sea, fulfilling Portugal’s ambition to find a direct maritime route to the lucrative spice markets of Asia.

Every symbol in Indian culture carries a story… a meaning forgotten in time. From the Vedic Tilak to the Sacred Lotus, discover how these ancient symbols were born — when they started, why they mattered, and how they shaped India’s spiritual and cultural identity. In this Aitihaaz series, we explore the true history and meaning behind six timeless symbols: 🕉️ Tilak – The mark of awareness and energy 🤲 Namaste – The gesture of divine respect 🪔 Kalash – The vessel of creation and prosperity 卐 S