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Shantinath Temple Khajuraho - A Famous Jain Temple Shantinath Temple, a Jain temple in Khajuraho, was constructed around 1028 AD. Khajuraho is a famous historic town in the Chhatarpur district in MP. The temple lures Diagmber Jain pilgrims and devotees all the year round. There is a Dharamshala also near the temple which provides fine lodging. People who worship here with full faith and devotion get their desires fulfilled. Famous for the 14 feet high idol of 16th Jain Tirthankar, Adinath, in the standing posture, this temple has great religious significance. This massive idol was installed in the Vikrama Samvat 1085. The idol is believed to possess supernatural powers. According to one incident that occurred about 400 years ago, some invaders came to break the idol. As they made their first move by applying the hammer on a finger of the idol, milk started pouring out of it. At the same time, a dense flock of honey bees came out and attacked the invaders who ran away from there hurriedly. These and many other such incidences prove the miraculous powers of the idol. At the corners of the temple, there are some small side chapels. The walls of the temple are creamy yellow. Unlike the Hindu Temples, this temple is roofed only around the edges and open from the center portion. An important place with great religious significance, this Shantinath temple is a must see on your Khajuraho trip. Tags: Shantinath Temple Khajuraho Jain Chhatarpur District Madhya Pradesh Lord Adinath Indfy |
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Fascinating Collages of Assam and Siliguri - Part One Northeast India remains relatively less explored from the tourism point of view as compared to the other parts of the country, and that has perhaps contributed to its enigmatic charm. Here bounties of pristine nature, exotic wildlife and fascinating tribal culture together create a wonderful kaleidoscope for the tourists. Among the northeastern states, Assam deserves prime importance among the tourists, and not only because it is relatively easy to access by rail or road. In Assam, history resonates, wildlife fascinates and ancient culture permeates the lifestyles of today... Here the mighty Brahamputra radiates the joys and sorrows, hopes and aspirations of its simple people. It is a land where myths and legends are part of everyday life, and they comfortably merge with the region's chequered history. Tourists must make it a point to visit the Umananda Temple, a temple dedicated to Shiva, situated on the Peacock Island, on the Brahmaputra river, and also the Kamakhya Temple- a seat of Shakti worship- to realize the rich and varied religious fabric of Assam. Vashisht Ashram is also a worth visiting place. Located 15 km south of Guwahati, here you may find your long lost tranquility. At the same time, a visit to Kaziranga National Park will make you have a wild date with the dwindling species of one-horned rhinos, and enjoy the wild hues of Assam at its natural best. If a languid cruise through the mighty Brahmaputra would bring a song to your hearts, a tour of Majuli, which happens to be the largest fresh water island in South Asia, would induce you to introspect. Connected to the world only through ferry, this island is a seat of Vaisnavite sect. Here the predominantly tribal population is primarily engaged in traditional occupations like non-commercial agriculture, fishing, pottery, boat making, etc. and living an uncomplicated life, largely unaffected by the rapid march of civilization. A visit to the environmentally pristine Majuli during the Ras Purnima can be a wonderful revelation; then the entire island gets swayed by the colours of festivity. Tags: North East India Assam Indfy Umananda Temple Kamakhya Guwahati Majuli Siliguri Travel Tourism Handicrafts Pottery Art |
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Adinath Temple Khajuraho (Part 1) As the name suggests, Adinath temple in Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh is dedicated to Adinath the Jain saint. This is the last of Jain temples built around here. The temple is magnificently decorated with different sculpted figures including those of "yakshis". The Adinath temple is situated adjacent to the Parshvanatha Temple, which is the largest of all the Jain temples in Khajuraho. This Adinath temple has been partly repaired over the centuries. This temple is quite similar to the Hindu temples in Khajuraho. Though a Jain temple, it looks more or less like a Hindu temple owing to its architecture and designing. A black image inside the temple gives the indication of it being a Jain temple. The temple has very fine carvings on its 3 bands of sculptures. Adinath temple is towards the north of the largest Jain temple, the Parshvanatha temple. It is a small temple; its 'shikhar' is simple with a graceful and elegant auspicious pitcher on the top of it. The temple's sanctum is simple as well and it seems that the altar had been built at some time later than the construction of the temple. The roof is constructed beautifully with lotus like stone, which adds to the beauty of the sanctum sanctorum. Tags: Adinath Temple Khajuraho Madhya Pradesh Jain Parshvanatha Indfy India Travel |
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Jahangir Mahal Orchha (Part1) - The Architectural Wonder Jahangir Mahal, an architectural masterpiece is an intricately carved building that has an aura of stateliness and magnificence. It was built on the lines of Hamam Saras of Emperor Akbar. This lovely piece of architecture is inspired by the Bundela School of Architecture. The frontage of this palace is beautifully adorned with plethora of various geometric patterns and paintings. The paintings depict flowers and peacocks. The palace has 5 storeys and 8 pavilions. On the third floor there is a court where the Orchha rulers met with their subjects. This court is raised over layered colonnades with a broad gallery overlooking it. A cornice in reddish-brown color runs along the boundary of the court. As the name suggests, Jahangir Mahal was built in the honor of the great Mughal Emperor Jahangir. The Orchha ruler, Vir Singh constructed this monument. Vir Singh was a great friend of Jahangir, and their friendship was very old, much before their becoming of monarchs. Vir Singh helped Jahangir at the time when he was in need of help. Jahangir, in order to repy his friend's favor, gave the whole of Bundelkhand to Vir Singh. Tags: Jahangir Mahal Orchha Madhya Pradesh Akbar Indfy Bundela School Architecture Travel India |
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Parshvanatha Jain Temple (Part 1) The Parshvanatha Jain Temple is the largest Jain temple in Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh. Initially built to commemorate Adinath, it was later dedicated to Parshvantha in 1860. This temple is very similar in architecture to other Hindu temples built in Khajuraho. Near this Parshvanatha temple there is a temple dedicated to Adinath with very fine carvings. Parshvanatha Temple was constructed in the tenth century. This recherché temple is one of the very fine Khajuraho monuments as well. The architecture of the temple displays exquisitely carved motifs with lot of emphasis on detailing. A great collection of impressive sculptures that are non-erotic in nature unlike other Khajuraho sculptures, await the visitors and devotees here. Sculptures of lions, elephants and sea lymphs adorn the walls here. Although a Jain temple, the Parshvanatha Temple nevertheless showcases Vaishnav deities from the Hindu mythology as well. These images are beautifully carved in the wall panels of the temple. This Parshvanatha temple consists of two axial projections at two ends. One projection on the eastern side is the "ardh mandap" and the other projection on the west is behind the "garbhgriha" which is a small shrine. This great temple is a must visit on your Khajuraho tour. Tags: Parshvanatha Jain Temple Khajuraho Madhya Pradesh Adinath Indfy India Travel |
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In Siliguri, Life has Symmetry The busy and joyous city of Siliguri has its pensive moods too, which are reflected in its decades-old cemetery, where quietly lies in the dead warriors amidst an environment of green serenity. A legacy of the colonial era, this cemetery was built and is maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Here it deserves a mention that the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, which saw its birth through a Royal Charter in 1917, has the responsibility of developing and maintaining the graves of the forces of the Commonwealth nations, who laid down their lives during the two World Wars. As one strolls through the tranquility, with dappled sunlight caressing the greens, one may suddenly get the feeling that in this life everything is ephemeral, except for the perennial truth of life and death...And one may also feel the sheer madness behind the twisted concept of war. Thankfully there is peace after the war and life after death... Tags: East India Assam Tourism Travel Indfy Siliguri Symmetry North Bengal Commonwealth Graves Commission World War Life Death |
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India Gate- An Edifice of Courage, Valour and Grandeur India Gate, probably the best work of colonial architecture in the city, is a majestic monument built in the year 1931 by Edwin Lutyens. This great structure was built in the memory of the nine thousand Indian soldiers who died during World War I and the Afghan Wars, while fighting for the British government. Situated at Rajpath in Delhi, India Gate is a forty-two meter high structure, which stands tall as a symbol of valor, courage and sacrifice of many brave Indian soldiers. Many years after the construction of this splendid structure, an eternal flame was added to it, which is called the 'Amar Jawan Jyoti'. This flame is burning since 1971. Located right under the curved arch of the structure, the flame burns day and night as a stoic reminder to the nation of the exemplary bravery of the Indian soldiers, who laid down their lives during the Indo-Pak war, in 1971. Today, the verdant greenery around this stately structure is Delhi's favorite outing spot. People flock here not only to get awestruck by the majestic appeal of the India Gate, but also to enjoy the scenic beauty of its surrounding lush green lawns. There is also a lake with boating facilities, situated nearby. A great picnic spot for both the young and the old, India Gate comes alive especially in the night, when it gets illuminated with lights. Tags: India Gate Delhi Amar Jawan Jyoti Indfy |
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Siliguri Crafts Beauty Whenever you choose to visit Darjeeling, do make it a point to have a stopover at Siliguri. This bustling city in close proximity to the Himalayas is a scenic toy train ride away from Darjeeling. The city serves as the base for tourists going for hill stations of east India, such as Darjeeling, Kalimpong or Gangtok. Siliguri has a number of tourist attractions, but it is famous among the tourists for its shopping options. Many tourists conclude their Darjeeling tour with a shopping expedition in Siliguri. North Bengal is very much famous for its exotic handicrafts, and as Siliguri is the business hub of the north Bengal region, its markets are flooded with these creations. At the same time, handicrafts of Nepal and Bhutan are also found here at affordable prices. The array of handicrafts which crowd the markets of Siliguri include carpets, woolen garments, cane and bamboo crafts and furniture, wood crafted decorative products, pottery, handloom products, ornaments, embroidery works and jute products. Some handicrafts from Sikkim, foremost among which is the woolen carpets with fascinating motifs; motifs which are very much germane to the Sikkemese culture, can also be found in the busy markets of Siliguri. Or have a Choktse, the famous foldable table of Sikkim, to enhance your shopping experience. Besides frequenting the shops at Hill Cart Road and Sevoke Road or the Hong Kong market, also visit the road side stalls of this quaint city to have the best of bargain and buys. Tags: Siliguri Crafts Beauty Darjeeling Himalaya Kalimpong Gangtok India East Handicrafts Indfy Hill Station Shopping Art Mark |
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Parshvanatha Jain Temple (Part 2) Parshvanatha Temple is a Jain Temple in Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh. This Temple is the largest among all the other Jain temples here in Khajuraho. Owing to the figures of Vaishnav deities housed here, this temple looks more like a Hindu temple. Originally the temple was dedicated to Adinath, who was the first Jain Tirthankar. But later in 1860, the image of Parshvanatha was installed here and so the temple got its name as Parshvanatha Temple. There is one Adinath temple with very fine carving situated very near to this Parshvanatha temple. Built in the 10th century, this recherché temple is a beautiful monument in Khajuraho. Temples in Khajuraho are famous for their erotic sculptures with this temple being a rare exception. Awesome assortment of non-erotic sculptures adorns the walls of the temple. These sculptures include those of elephants, lions and also sea lymphs. The figures of different Vaishnav deities carved on the wall panels add to the beauty of the temple. On the basis of architectural and sculptural evidences, the Parshvanatha Temple that was initially dedicated to Adinath, the first Tirthankar of Jains, appears to be a close successor of the Lakshmana Temple. Make sure that you visit this temple on your tour to Khajuraho. Tags: Parshvanatha Jain Temple Khajuraho Madhya Pradesh Adinath Indfy India Travel |
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Jama Masjid - An Eloquent Expression of Sprituality Jama Masjid is the largest mosque in India, and also one of the best known monuments across the country. It is a synthesis of the best of Indo-Islamic architecture. Commissioned by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the year 1650 AD, this mosque was the last architectural wonder created by him. It took six years to complete the entire construction work of this splendid architectural masterpiece. However, behind the façade of majesty, characterized by wide stairways and arched gateways, the structure has an innate solemn appeal, that can be deciphered by the discerning tourists. Measuring 65 x 35 m, Jama Masjid has three gateways, two minarets and four towers. This five-storied mosque has been constructed in red sandstone and white marble, and it can hold twenty five thousand worshippers at a time. The mosque is located in the heart of the crowded marketplace of Old Delhi, and towards the east of the mosque stands the Red Fort. One can enter the mosque from both the north and the south gates. However, the main entrance is from the eastern gate that is facing the Red Fort that was once used by the emperors. Today, it remains closed on the weekdays. This imposing structure speaks volumes about the aesthetic vision and the religious bent of mind of the great ruler Shah Jahan. Muslims from different parts of Delhi, India and the world come here to offer their prayers to the Allah. Tags: Jama Masjid Mosque Monuments Delhi India Indfy |
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North And South Blocks- Reflecting Power, Glory and Legacy North and South Blocks are built on the Raisina Hill, and they flank the wide Rajpath. Together they are termed as Secretariat Building. These buildings reflect the regal colonial architecture and houses important ministries like Defense Ministry, Ministry of Home Affairs, Finance Ministry, External Affairs Ministry and the office of the Prime Minister of India. The North and the South Blocks are located in the vicinity of the Rashtrapati Bhawan. Vijay Chowk lies between the Rashtrapati Bhawan and the North and South Block. The construction of Rashtrapati Bhawan and these North and South Blocks took place during the British rule. When they transferred their capital from Calcutta to Delhi in 1911, they decided to remodel this old city, and one of the reflections of this endeavour is embodied in the North and South Blocks. One of the most majestic state office buildings in the whole world, North and South Blocks resonate an unmistakable British legacy. The famous British architect, Herbert Baker constructed, or rather created these buildings of seminal architectural appeal. He got the inspiration for these buildings from Christopher Wren's Royal Naval College, which is at Greenwich. Today, these stately buildings act as edifices of power and governance of independent India. Tags: Delhi North South Blocks Rashtrapati Bhawan Ministry India Indfy |
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Shivratri Fair (Part 1) - The Gala Affair Shivratri Fair is the most significant and largest festival of Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh. According to the mythological legends, Shivratri or "the night of Lord Shiv" was actually the time of celebration of the marital engagement of Lord Shiva with Goddess Parvati, the daughter of the Himalayas. People of Khajuraho observe a puja on this day. Vibrant celebrations mark the onset of the festival that is also called "Maha Shivratri". This Maha Shivratri festival is celebrated on the thirteenth or the fourteenth day of the month of Phagun or spring. According to the Gregorian calendar, Phagun falls during the months of February and March. This is the period when the weather remains pleasant throughout the country. Maha Shivratri puja marks the celebration of one day and one night. On the occasion of Shivratri, a dance festival is organized in Khajuraho, which lasts for around seven days. The best classical dancers can be seen performing in this Khajuraho dance festival that attracts numerous spectators from all over the world. The grand fiesta of Maha Shivratri is an elaborate affair. There is a 2.5 meters high Shiv Lingam in the Kandariya Mahadeo Temple of Khajuraho, which is dressed up in white and saffron dhotis to appear as a bridegroom. Also a massive conical shape crown made of silver paper is surmounted on it. The priest performs the ceremony all throughout the night till the wedding is complete between Shiva and his heavenly consort Parvati. Tags: Maha Shivratri Fair Khajuraho Madhya Pradesh Lord Shiva Parvati Festival Indfy India Celebration |
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Red Fort A magnificent marvel of the Mughal period, Red Fort presents a spectacular sight for the onlookers. The name Red Fort comes from the red sandstone material used to make this majestic monument. Built by the great Emperor Shah Jahan, this architectural masterpiece bespeaks of the glory and might of the Mughals. Red Fort was built during 1639 and 1648. It has walls built in red sandstone, which extend up to 2 kms in length and more than 18 mts in height. The entry to this splendid structure is from the Lahori Gate and the Delhi Gate. The latter gate faces the bustling market of Chandni Chowk, whose ambience is infused with the charm of a bygone era. The two most important halls of this majestic fort are Diwan-i-Am and the Diwan-i-Khas. The former is the hall of public audiences, where the emperor used to address grievances and complaints of the common people, and the latter is the hall where he used to hold private meetings with important dignitaries. Diwan-i-Khas housed the gem-studded peacock throne, which Nadir Shah plundered in 1739, during his siege of Delhi. However, Red Fort is not only about architecture and heritage. It houses a busy market within its precincts too, which is called Meena Bazaar, where one can shop for ethnic items. Centuries have gone by.... but even today the Red Fort stands tall as a symbol of power, might and glory. From here only, the Prime Minister addresses the nation, on our Independence Day. It is much more than a mere tourist attraction. Tags: Red Fort Lal Quila Delhi India Monuments Mughals Moghul Travel Tourist Indfy |
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Qutub Minar - Standing Tall in History Qutub Minar, the tallest minaret in India built in crimped red sandstone, is a true example of the Indo-Islamic architecture. Intricate carvings augment the beauty of the tower. Qutub-Din-Abek, the first Muslim Emperor of Delhi and the founder of the Slave Dynasty, conceived of this brilliant structure. However, during his reign, only the basement of the grand tower was completed. Later on, his descendant Illtutmish took charge of the construction of the minaret and added three more storeys to the tower. In the year 1368, Firuz Shah Tughluq completed the tower by adding the fifth and the last storey to it. The differences in the styles of architecture of these three rulers are very much evident in this magnificent tower. Firoz Shah Tughlaq and later Sikandar Lodi also undertook repair works of the tower, after it was damaged by lightning. The height of the minaret made of fluted red sandstone is 72.5 meters and there are 399 steps of stairs that lead to the top of the tower. This magnificent marvel of the Sultanate era, which was built as a tower of victory, now forms an integral part of the sights and sounds of Delhi. Thinking of Delhi, the first name that comes to the mind is of Qutub Minar. Qutub Complex includes the Tomb of Illtutmish, Alai Minar, Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, and the famous Iron Pillar. The complex is built on the ruins of Lal Kot --the erstwhile capital of the Tomars and the Chauhans. Tags: Delhi Qutub Qutab Minar Minaret Historical Monuments India Travel Tourism Indfy |
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Shivratri Fair (Part 2) - Faith and Devotion Shivratri or Maha Shivratri as it is commonly called is a grand festival in Madhya Pradesh. This great fiesta is celebrated throughout the country with immense devotion towards Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The Hindi word "Shivratri" means "the night of Shiva". According to the legends, this was the night when Lord Shiva was married to Goddess Parvati. Till today, in most parts of the country people celebrate this night with great faith. The ceremonies that people observe mainly take place at night. Shivratri falls on the thirteenth or fourteenth day of Phagun, which coincides in the months of February and March. This festival is celebrated in the honor of "Shiva -- the destroyer". Shiv Lingam is worshiped and priests carry out the ceremonies all throughout the night. This was the night when Lord Shiva performed the "Tandav" dance. Shivratri is celebrated in different manners in various parts of the country. In MP, this festival has its own significance and flavor. It is one of the most important festivals of the state. In Khajuraho and in Ujjain, people perform religious rituals and celebrate Shivratri with great reverence. Each corner of the state is decorated as a bride to mark the heavenly union of Shiva and Parvati, and the tradition continues. Tags: Maha Shivratri Fair Khajuraho Madhya Pradesh Lord Shiva Parvati Festival Indfy India Celebration |
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Jahangir Mahal Orchha (Part 2) - A Regal Palace Built in the seventeenth century by the Orchha ruler, Raja Vir Singh, this imperial palace is a majestic structure. It speaks out loud the friendship between Vir Singh and Emperor Jahangir. Their friendship dated back to the times when they were not even monarchs. Vir Singh built this palace in the honor of his great friend Jahangir. This was a tribute to their friendship. The palace has 5 storeys. It also houses around 8 pavilions. The façade of the palace is decorated with numerous geometric patterns and various paintings of peacocks and flowers. On the 3rd floor, there is a court where the Orchha ruler used to meet his subjects. This court is raised above the superimposed arcades. There is a broad gallery that overlooks it. A reddish brown colored cornice that runs along its periphery bound the court. Vir Singh, before becoming the Maharaja, possessed the Badoni fief, which is located in between Gwalior and Orchha. During that time, the relationship between Emperor Akbar and Jahangir was getting bitter due to Anarkali. Salim alias Jahangir revolted against his father Akbar and the latter decided to suppress the rebellion. Vir Singh thought of helping his dear friend Jahangir. After Akbar died, Jahangir thought of repaying the favor of Vir Singh by giving the charge of Bundelkhand to him. In 1606, Vir built the Jahangir Mahal to honor his friend. Tags: Jahangir Mahal Orchha Madhya Pradesh Bundela School Architecture Indfy Emperor Akbar |
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Old Fort - A Silent Witness to Delhi The Old Fort or Purana Quila is said to be built on the ancient site of Indraprastha, the capital of the Pandavas in the well-known epic, Mahabharata. Right now in ruins, this fort was a great imposing structure in the past. Archeological excavations reveal that even in 1000 BC, civilizations existed in this place. Potteries that date back to the time of Mahabharata, have been found here. The Old Fort still stirs up an enigmatic aura, where myths comfortably merge with history. Humayun started the construction of this majestic fort; however Sher Shah Suri, who vanquished Humayun and established Afghan rule for a brief intervening period, is credited of completing it. Humayun regained power after some seven years, in 1545 AD, and went on to build a city named Dinapanah within this mighty fortress. Sher Shah's impressions are still evident in many brilliant constructions within the fort. One of them is the octagonal building of Sher Mandal, which is named after him. Humayun later used the building as his library, where he met with an accident and died. Built in red sandstone and white marble, the beauty and splendour of this fortifying fort lies in its architectural excellence. This splendid structure, which infuses architectural elements of Hindu, Moghul and Afghan styles, is still standing as a silent witness to the tumultuous history of Delhi. Within the structure of the fort was a moat, which has now been converted to a lake. Boating excursions in this lake in the sunny winter mornings or summer evenings can add dollops of fun to serious history. Tags: Old Fort Purana Quila Delhi Indfy |
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Chaturbhuja Mandir Madhya Pradesh -- A Temple of Lord Vishnu Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the Chaturbhuja Temple in Orchha is place offering solace and tranquility to all who visit it. Built in 1100 A.D, this temple is now in ruins. Although major portions of the temple have been preserved, signs of ruination are evident nevertheless. The temple is located in the Jatkari village, at a distance of 3 kms south of Khajuraho. It is one of the famous architectural temples built there. Standing on a raised platform, this temple faces the West. There are ten steps to reach to the platform. The floor of the platform is coated in white sandstone. This temple belonging to the Southern group is an impressive architectural work. The main highlight of the temple is a 9 feet high colossal structure that portrays the four-armed Lord Vishnu thus giving rise to the name Chaturbhuja. This idol is an architectural marvel built with intricate carvings. All the four hands of lord Vishnu are depicted to be holding different articles signifying different meanings for each. He grips a manuscript with a lotus stalk in the upper left hand and a water pot in the lower left hand. The lower right hand is broken with which he gesticulates boon giving and abhaya with the upper right hand. While the temples in Khajuraho are well known for their erotic-sculpture carvings, the Chaturbhuja temple is an exception. This is the only temple in Khajuraho that lacks these erotic sculptures and showcases architectural images of nymphs, ashtavasus, dikhpalas and the recesses of mythical lions. Tags: Chaturbhuja Temple Orchha Madhya Pradesh Khajuraho Indfy Travel Adventure |
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Humayun's Tomb -- Majesty in Serenity Humayun, the son of Babur, was the second Mughal Emperor to have graced the throne of Delhi. He died in the year 1556. In 1562, six years after his death, his widow Hamida Banu Begam, also called as Haji Begam, commissioned the building of this tomb. It took eight years to create this architectural masterpiece. In 1570, Humayun's Tomb, the first garden-tomb of the Indian subcontinent, came into being. It is probably the first major architecture of the Moghul rule and was an inspiration to the Taj Mahal. Located at Nizamuddin, this tomb stands as a great example of the amalgamation of Mughal and Persian styles of architecture. We can also say that this tomb is an apt example of Mughal architecture, inspired by the Persian style. Humayun was a great lover of Persian architecture. Some people also believe that Humayun himself had planned about this tomb, but there are no concrete records to back this romantic argument. The tomb was built in red sandstone and is octagonal in shape. As a large enclosure raised on a platform, with high arches and double domes, this magnificent monument appears as a striking structure. The tomb rests at the middle of the plinth, which is around 21 feet high. The height of the central dome of the tomb is about 140 feet. The double-layered dome enhances the aesthetic appeal of the architecture. Though by and large, the tomb has been made in red sandstone, but there is infusion of white marble at some places, which adds to the beauty of the tomb. No wonder, it happens to be a World Heritage Site. Tags: Humayun Tomb Mughal Delhi India Travel Monuments Moghul Architecture Heritage Site Indfy |
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Siliguri Children's Park: Bringing Out the Child in You Siliguri serves as the commercial hub of north Bengal and the gateway to the glistening Himalayas. One of the recreation options of this city of myriad attractions is the Children's Park. Known as Surya Sen Park, the park with lots of greenery and fun and games options for children, is located in Mahakal Pally of the city. Just in the vicinity of the park, the Mahananda river flows away with its perennial charm, with Himalayas in the backdrop accentuating the ambience of serenity. The park has a bust of the noted freedom fighter Surya Sen, who gave away his life while fighting against the Britishers. Today the legacy of his name is carried forward in this manicured green paradise for children, where the tiny tots can have a whale of a time and fresh air, along with their parents. The park not only has the potential to give some wonderful moments to the children, but can also bring out the long lost childhood among the parents. As you saunter through with your crowd of memories, while watching your children busy in merriment from the corner of your eye, the Bengali songs wafting through the air are likely to bring a sense of exhilaration to your jaded nerves and take you back to your times of youth... And you need not hurry for the fear of the descending twilight. In the evenings, fountains bloom with their liquid grace, and the park gets lit. And even the tall trees may whisper, "Welcome to Siliguri". Tags: East India Festivals Assam Fairs Adventure Sports Tourism Travel Indfy Siliguri North Bengal Children Park Attractions |
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Brahmaputra Beach Festival: Celebrating a River of Joy The sunny brand new year in Assam colours the minds of its people with the spirit of festivity. Assam celebrates the Brahamputra Beach Festival in the month of January, on the ravine beaches of the mighty Brahmaputra river. Assam Boat Racing and Rowing Association, Guwahati, organises this festival, in collaboration with the Department of Tourism, Government of Assam. This festival coincides with the harvest festival of Assam, which is known as Magh Bihu. During the Brahmaputra Beach Festival, the ravine beaches around Brahmaputra take the shape of fairs, attracting tourists from both within the state and outside. From egg breaking and cock fighting, to kite flying competitions and solo dancing, the beach festivals cover a wide ambit of traditional sports and entertainments. At the same time, for the more adventurous, various water sports are also being organized on the Brahmaputra. The water sports options in this festival include canoeing, water rafting and wind surfing among others. Sit and draw competitions for the children are being held on the beaches, and exhibitions of traditional crafts of the state are also part of these beach fairs. Succinctly, this is one festival where some fun for everyone is there, irrespective of age and mindset. The festival manages to amply reflect the rich traditions and culture of the state. Tags: East India Festivals Brahmaputra Beach Festival Assam Fairs Adventure Water Sports Tourism Travel Indfy |
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Raja Mahal Orchha (Part 1) - An Architectural Marvel The brilliant structure of Raja Mahal is a fine example of Mughal architecture. The stone latticework and various multi-facing archways at the entrance of the palace make it look extremely wonderful. The construction work on Raja Mahal began during the reign of Raja Rudra Pratap, who died in the year 1531 leaving the construction incomplete. After his death, his son Bharti Chand took over the charge of the construction of the palace. In his lifetime, Bharti Chand managed to complete the front and main portion of the Mahal but again left it incomplete at death. Finally, an Orchha ruler, Madhukar Shah gave the final touch to the Raja Mahal. Besides completing this Raja Mahal, Madhukar also built some other noteworthy monuments. The palace is a complete square structure and is further fractioned into 2 courtyards. From the two courtyards, the palace flanks the major courtyard. The outer courtyard has lovely arches that are beautifully arranged in flower patterns. The palace has a 4-storeyed building at one side. The other three ends have 5-storeyed apartments. The Diwan-i-Am and Durbar-e-Khas are two portions within the palace that attract tourists and visitors, owing to their magnificence. Tags: Raja Mahal Orchha Madhya Pradesh Mughal Architecture Diwan-i-Am Durbar-e-Khas Indfy India |
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Adinath Temple Khajuraho (Part 2) Adinath Temple is a temple of great reverence dedicated to Adinath, the first Jain Tirthankar. This temple is situated towards the north of the Parshvanatha Temple, which is the largest Jain Temple in Khajuraho. The Adinath temple is the last Jains shrine, which was built in the devotion of Lord Adinath. The temple is excellently built and decorated with numerous sculptures including the figures of "yakshis". The temple has been repaired and restored over the years. Though a Jain Temple, it looks very similar to the various Hindu temples in Khajuraho. The sanctum sanctorum houses a black image of the deity and this clearly indicates it being a Jain temple. It is actually a small temple but displays brilliant architecture. There are many fine carvings on the three bands of sculptures in it. The temple's "shikar" is quite simple and plain to look at. On the top of it there is an elegant pitcher. The roof built in lotus like stone makes the sanctum look lovelier. Also, it seems as it the altar has been built later. On the walls of the temple there are figures of the court musicians that have been carved beautifully. Tags: Adinath Temple Khajuraho Madhya Pradesh Jain Parshvanatha Indfy India Travel |
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Raja Mahal Orchha (Part 2) - The Great Palace Raja Mahal in Orchha in Madhya Pradesh is a true example of the magnificent Mughal architecture. The great ruler Raja Rudra Pratap initiated the construction of this majestic palace. However he couldn't complete the construction during his life tenure. He died in the year 1531 leaving the palace incomplete. After that, his son Bharti Chand took over the construction and he was able to complete the front and the main part of the palace. He also couldn't complete the construction. Some years after his death, an Orchha ruler Madhukar Shah gave the final touch to the palace. The Palace has two major sections that are worth a look. They are the Durbar-e-Khas and the Diwan-i-Am. The Durbar Hall or the Durbar-e-Khas is on the first floor of the Mahal. Battlement walls of high altitude surround it. The Durbar Hall is very well bastioned. Right over it, there are a number of musket holes from which the enemies were shot at. The Diwan-i-Am was actually an assembly hall. In this hall, the king used to have group meetings with his council of ministers. This hall has 3 platforms. The ceiling of this hall is decorated with various paintings that belong to the Mughal as well as the Bundela School of art. Tags: Raja Mahal Orchha Madhya Pradesh Mughal Architecture Diwan-i-Am Durbar-e-Khas Indfy India |
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Jahangir Mahal Orchha (Part 3) - An Imposing Structure Built by the ruler Vir Singh, this intricately carved majestic palace has an aura of opulence and grandeur. The palace was built in the 17th century in the honor of great Mughal Emperor Jahangir. Vir Singh was an Orchha ruler who was a good friend of Jahangir, son of Emperor Akbar. Vir Singh helped Jahangir during his clash with Akbar. Jahangir repaid this favor by giving him the charge of entire Bundelkhand. Later, Vir Singh constructed this palace in the honor of Jahangir. The imperial palace was built on the lines of Akbar's Hamam Saras in the Agra City. It is a representative of Bundela School of Architecture. This five-storeyed palace has 8 pavilions. On the third floor, there used to be a court attended by the Orchha rulers where they met their subjects. The court is elevated over overlying cloisters with a broad gallery overlooking it. A reddish-brown cornice encircles the court. A large line of elephant brackets flanks the entrance of the majestic monument. The front portion of the Jahangir Palace is beautifully decorated with many geometric patterns and paintings of flowers and peacocks. Tags: Jahangir Mahal Orchha Madhya Pradesh Bundela School Architecture Indfy Emperor Akbar |