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India.com
5 hours ago
- India.com
5 Spine-Chilling Legends Of Ahmedabad Locals Still Whisper About
The largest urban center in Gujarat stands as a diverse combination of deep historical roots and cultural richness and ages-old traditions. During British colonial days 'Manchester of the East' defined Ahmedabad but its ancient legends and historical myths formulate the core essence of this city. The city's cultural heritage houses these popular stories which affect local building practices as well as religious ceremonies and routine activities. Historic metropolis Ahmedabad shares its deepest aspects through valorous tales and spiritual tales which deliver vital insights into its soul. 1. The Founding Legend: Sultan Ahmed Shah and Bhadra-Kali Legend tells that Ahmedabad grew into existence as the creation of Sultan Ahmed Shah I during his foundation in 1411 AD. During his hunting expedition near the Sabarmati River Sultan Ahmed Shah witnessed what became known as a hare chasing a dog which amazed him through this surprising sight. A favorable sign of strength and success led Sultan Ahmed Shah to build the new capital on this spot. An additional variation of the tale introduces supernatural elements. Sultan Ahmed Shah I received a divine message from Hindu goddess Bhadra-Kali who ordered him to construct the city where she had rested. The city received its name 'Karnavati' from the sultan who selected one of her many names but later developed it as Ahmedabad. The Islamic administrative system of Ahmedabad merged with traditional Hindu religious practices to create a syncretic cultural environment which shapes the contemporary Ahmedabad community. 2. Adalaj Stepwell: A Tale of Love and Betrayal The Adalaj Stepwell in Ahmedabad distinguishes itself through its beautiful craftsmanship and tragic historical background. Queen Rudabai built the stepwell in 1499 as a dedication to her spouse Vaghela chief Virsinh shortly after his death. Both history and backstory tell a story about love and devotion while also presenting tragic events. The story reveals that Virsinh petitioned Mohammed Begada to launch an invasion on Muslim intruders after the former's final combat encounter killed him. The beautiful and intelligent Rudbhai captured Mohammed Begada's attention so he pursued marriage with her. Rudabai vowed to marry Begada because he would finish the stepwell Virsinh had planned when she agreed to the marriage in memory of her dead husband. Begada completed the construction as promised but Rudabai found her way into the stepwell to end her life thus maintaining loyalty to her late husband Virsinh. Through this heartbreaking yet uplifting story the Adalaj Stepwell has evolved into something beyond its practical use as it represents both everlasting dedication and enduring strength. 3. Sabarmati Ashram: Myth Meets Modernity Sabarmati Ashram under Mahatma Gandhi has established itself as a historical site of deep importance to India's independence movement but people now recognize it with mythological importance. Local people share stories about how Gandhi selected this site because it placed him in between both prison cells and cremation grounds to symbolize the absolute limits of life. Through his dedication to non-violent truth he advised Indians to face imprisonment as well as death as natural consequences of their commitment. At the ashram every part displayed Gandhi's philosophy as it merged sacred traditions of India with current political action. Local residents spread numerous stories about divine miracles which happened throughout Gandhi's time in this location. Many villagers suggest the ashram obtained enough food for all its residents through Gandhi's steadfast faith and pure lifestyle. Local anecdotes reinforce the concept that Ahmedabad exists where divine elements and everyday life combine peaceably. 4. Navratri and Durga Puja: Celebrating Divine Feminine Power The city of Ahmedabad becomes incomplete during Navratri since this major Indian festival prioritizes celebration in the city. According to Hindu mythology Navratri pays homage to Durga who conquered Mahishasura the buffalo demon. The nine-night celebration during this festival converts Ahmedabad into a fervent center where large crowds execute traditional religious dance performances of Garba and Dandiya Raas. Ahmedabad shows remarkable devotion to Navratri because the city maintains a deep spiritual connection to Shakti or feminine power. Goddess worship beliefs are strengthened at both Ambaji Mata Mandir and Dakor's Ranchhodraiji Temple because they continuously receive yearly pilgrim visitors. The rituals of the people from Ahmedabad reveal their shared mental unity which finds its sources in mythical stories about bravery and moral righteousness. 5. Kankaria Lake: A Legacy of Leisure and Lore The landmark Kankaria Lake originated from the era of Sultan Qutb-ud-din when he constructed it in 1451. Royalty used 'Hauz-e-Qutub' as a recreation spot which later obtained its present name 'Kankaria Lake.' March 4th features major public religious and community events at this site while its original name came from the Hindi word 'kankar' which describes its extensive use of pebbles during construction. Folklore tells how the creators designed the lake to mirror the crescent moon shape in order to bless the area with prosperous benefits. According to certain folklore stories, precious treasures rest beneath the water surface at Kankaria Lake and mysterious forces guard these relics. Although no scientific proof proves these stories right, such tales make the lake more mysterious for people who want to discover its hidden secrets. Conclusion The mythological aspects of Ahmedabad form an essential component of its cultural landscape because they reveal historical stories connected to its multifaceted cultural origins. The city's foundation story by Sultan Ahmed Shah along with Adalaj Stepwell tragedy and Navratri religious passion continue to touch both residents and travelers from every corner. The myths and legends exist to remind us about the eternal human search for existence and direction which creates a distinct Ahmedabad experience.
Time of India
6 hours ago
- Time of India
Ganesh Chaturthi: Coimbatore district collector chairs review meeting, issues guidelines
COIMBATORE: Coimbatore district collector Pavankumar G Giriyappanavar has chaired a coordination meeting with officials from various departments to review preparations for Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations on Aug 27 and to outline safety and environmental guidelines. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The meeting, held at the district collectorate on Wednesday night, was attended by district superintendent of police K Karthikeyan, corporation commissioner M Sivaguruprabakaran, district revenue officer M Sharmila, Pollachi sub-collector R Ramakrishnasamy, revenue divisional officers and officials from the Hindu religious and charitable endowments department, highways, police and fire rescue services. The collector directed that all organisers installing Vinayagar idols should obtain a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the jurisdictional assistant commissioner of police (within city limits) or the sub-collector/revenue divisional officer (in rural areas). For idols placed on private property, consent from the landowner is mandatory; for govt land, permission from the respective department and local bodies is required. Organisers should secure police permission for using loudspeakers, fire department clearance for fire safety arrangements and approval from Tangedco for temporary power connections. Idols must be made of natural clay and painted only with eco-friendly, non-toxic, water-soluble colours. The use of Plaster of Paris, banned dyes and chemicals prohibited by the Control Board (TNPCB) is strictly forbidden. The height of idols should not exceed 10 feet, and they should not be installed near hospitals, educational institutions and other places of worship. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Cone-shaped loudspeakers are banned; only box-type speakers are permitted. Temporary pandals must not be made of highly flammable materials, and first-aid and emergency medical facilities must be arranged nearby. Idol processions may be carried on minitrucks or tractors, with the number of participants complying with the . The use of firecrackers along the route or at immersion sites is banned. Flowers, plastic and other decorative items must be removed before immersion. The collector also instructed the TNPCB to inspect idol-making units to ensure compliance, while relevant departments were directed to repair damaged procession routes and address low-hanging power lines.
Time of India
7 hours ago
- Time of India
Arjun Tendulkar gets engaged to sister Sara's close friend Saaniya Chandhok in Sachin Tendulkar-Anjali's 30th anniversary year — A look at Sara-Saaniya's rare pictures together
कौन हैं अर्जुन तेंदुलकर की होने वाली पत्नी सानिया चंदोक? Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar and his wife Anjali marked 30 years of their wedding in May this year. On May 26, 2025, wishing Sachin Tendulkar and Anjali on their wedding anniversary, their daughter Sara Tendulkar had posted some throwback pictures from their wedding on social media along with the caption, "Celebrating 30 years of this iconic duo!! Together, you have built a life filled with the kind of love that inspires us all. Here's to forever and beyond." And now, making this year more special for the Tendulkars' is the news of their son Arjun who got engaged to Saaniya Chandhok on August 13, 2025. The news broke in the wee hours of August 13 and it quickly spread on social media. However, no official statement in this regard has been given by the legendary cricketer or his family. Meanwhile, on August 14, Sara Tendulkar posted an Instagram story of the inaugration of her new Pilates Academy in Mumbai wherein one can spot her to-be-bhabhi Saaniya Chandhok too! Have a look at the pictures here: You can also get a glimpse of Saaniya Chandok (wearing green) standing alongside Sara Tendulkar, as Sachin Tendulkar inaugurates the academy by breaking a coconut as per Hindu traditions: But, who is Saaniya Chandhok and how is she connected to the Tendulkars? Read on to know more about her here: Meet Saaniya Chandok: Arjun Tendulkar's to-be-bride and Sara Tendulkar's close friend Saaniya is the granddaughter of well-known Mumbai entrepreneur Ravi Ghai, as per India Today. The Ghai family is popular for its contributions to the hospitality and food industries, with ties to the InterContinental hotel and Brooklyn Creamery. The report also mentioned that Arjun and Saaniya's engagement was an intimate affair, attended only by close family members and friends from both sides. Saaniya is also an entrepreneur herself. She is the founder of Mr. Paws Pet Spa & Store LLP, a premium pet grooming and retail brand in Mumbai, catering to pet owners who want the best for their furry friends. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Expand Globally from HK Read Now Undo Not just this, Saaniya Chandok also seems to be a dear friend of Sara Tendulkar and their friendship goes back to many years. In fact, Sara Tendulkar often posts pictures with Saaniya on social media. Here's a look at some of their rare pictures together that gives a glimpse of their close bond and deep friendship: Photo: Sara Tendulkar/ Instagram Photo: Sara Tendulkar/ Instagram Photo: Sara Tendulkar/ Instagram Arjun Tendulkar: Following his legendary father's footsteps कौन हैं सानिया चंदोक, जिससे हुई अर्जुन तेंदुलकर की सगाई Born on September 24, 1999, Arjun Tendulkar is the younger child of Sachin and Anjali Tendulkar. Just like his father, Arjun too is a professional cricketer. He is a left-arm pacer who can also chip in with valuable runs. He represents Goa in domestic cricket, where he has shown consistent all-round potential. In 17 First-Class matches, he has taken 37 wickets and scored 532 runs. In the shorter formats, Arjun has played 24 T20 matches, claiming 27 wickets and adding 119 runs with the bat. In 18 List A (one-day) games, he has picked up 25 wickets and scored 102 runs. The young fast bowler has also featured in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the Mumbai Indians. He made his IPL debut in 2023, playing four matches and picking up three wickets. His first IPL wicket came against SunRisers Hyderabad — none other than veteran India pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar. In the following season, Arjun played just one match and went wicketless. Despite limited opportunities, Mumbai Indians retained him for the 2024 season, and in the subsequent mega auction, they bought him again for INR 30 lakh, as per reports. Here's wishing Arjun and Saaniya many more years of happiness and togetherness! Bina Kak calls Salman Khan 'brother like son'—shares heartfelt Raksha Bandhan message "Get the latest news updates on Times of India, including reviews of the movie Coolie and War 2 ."
