Historic sites in Warangal await beauty queens on May 14
The Warangal, Hanamkonda, and Mulugu district administrations have made elaborate arrangements to facilitate the contestants' visits, aiming to showcase Telangana's rich cultural heritage to an international audience.
While a team of 22 beauty contestants will first visit the Thousand Pillar Temple to explore the Kakatiya-era architectural marvels before undertaking a tour of the Fort Warangal, another group of 35 will head for the Ramappa Temple in Palampet village of Mulugu district.
NIT Warangal retired professor K Panduranga Rao will explain the history of the temple architecture and sculptures to the Miss World contestants. They will also get to see a Perini dance performance and lighting show at the Ramappa Temple in the evening.
Panchayat Raj Minister Danasari Anasuya will accompany the Miss World contestants.
Meanwhile, Warangal Commissioner of Police (CP) Sunpreet Singh on Tuesday inspected the security arrangements at the Thousand Pillar Temple and Fort Warangal in view of the visit of beauty contestants.
Sunpreet Singh told the media that the Police department has taken every precautionary measure at the Thousand Pillar Temple and Fort Warangal to avoid inconveniences to the contestants and the general public. To ensure smooth bus travel of the Miss World contestants in the city, traffic will be stopped for a while.
Speaking to the media, Mulugu SP P Shabarish stated that tourists and locals will not be allowed in the Ramappa Temple during the visit of the beauty contestants on Wednesday. He said that 1,000 police personnel have been deployed for security at the temple.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
India.com
a day ago
- India.com
India's 79th Independence Day: These Historic Monuments Will Make You Feel Proud To Be Indian
History doesn't whisper. It roars. On August 15, as the tricolour flutters across 1.4 billion hearts, something stirs in the stones of India. From snow-capped peaks to sun-drenched coasts, the country doesn't just celebrate freedom—it lives in it. And nowhere is that legacy more visible than in the monuments that have stood through empires, revolutions, and rebirths. Most people think of the Taj Mahal. Of course they do. But what if we told you: Independence Day isn't for the obvious. It's for the profound. For structures that don't just impress the eye, but stir the soul—where every arch, every step, every shadow tells a story of resistance, resilience, and revolution. Let's walk through the spine of a nation, where emperors once ruled, freedom fighters once dreamed, and history still breathes through ancient walls. What makes India's Independence Day different from any other national celebration? It's not just the date. It's the depth. India didn't just gain independence. It reclaimed it. After 200 years of colonial rule, the nation didn't just raise a flag—it resurrected a civilization. And its monuments? They are not relics. They are reminders. Unlike other nations where history is neatly boxed in museums, in India, history lives. It echoes in the ramparts of forts, glows in temple carvings, and stands tall in modern memorials. On the 79th Independence Day, visiting these sites isn't tourism—it's pilgrimage. This is a day to remember who we were, who we fought to be, and who we continue to become. Tired of just watching flag-hoisting on TV? These 7 iconic monuments demand your presence 1. Red Fort, Delhi : The Birthplace of a Free India You've seen it on TV every August 15. But have you stood where Nehru raised the tricolour in 1947? The Red Fort isn't just sandstone and Mughal grandeur. It's the beating heart of modern India. Built by Shah Jahan, it became the stage for the nation's rebirth. On Independence Day, the Prime Minister hoists the flag from its ramparts, echoing a promise made to a billion people. But beyond the ceremony, walk the Diwan-i-Aam. Feel the weight of history in the vaulted halls. Imagine the whispers of revolution in the Hayat Baksh Garden. This isn't just a fort. It's a living classroom of freedom. 2. Cellular Jail, Andaman : Where Silence Was a Weapon Most people visit the Andamans for beaches. But the real soul of the islands lies in Port Blair's Cellular Jail. Known as Kala Pani, this British-era prison was built to break rebels. Instead, it forged them. Bhagat Singh, Savarkar, and countless unknown fighters were tortured here. Yet, their spirit never broke. Today, the jail hosts a moving light-and-sound show every evening—a tribute to those who paid the ultimate price. On Independence Day, standing in that courtyard, you don't just remember freedom. You feel its cost. 3. Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar : A Garden That Never Forgets In 1919, General Dyer's bullets turned a peaceful gathering into a massacre. 379 dead. Over 1,000 injured. All in minutes. Today, Jallianwala Bagh is a memorial garden, but the air still holds sorrow. The narrow entrance, the bullet marks on walls, the well where people jumped to escape—each step is a prayer. On August 15, as the nation celebrates, this site reminds us: freedom was bought with blood. And memory is the first duty of liberty. 4. Sabarmati Ashram, Ahmedabad : Where the Dandi March Began This wasn't just Gandhi's home. It was the war room of non-violence. From this peaceful riverside ashram, Mahatma Gandhi launched the Salt Satyagraha in 1930—a 24-day march that shook the British Empire. Walk through the museum. Read his letters. Sit by the same well he used. On Independence Day, the silence here speaks louder than any speech. It says: Courage doesn't need a sword. 5. Victoria Memorial, Kolkata : The Irony of Empire Built to glorify British rule, this grand marble palace now stands as a museum of that very empire's end. The irony is poetic. Once a symbol of colonial pride, today it's a space for Indian art, history, and reflection. Stroll through its gardens on Independence Day, and you're walking on the ruins of arrogance. The chandeliers still shine, but the crown is gone. It's a reminder: no empire lasts. But culture? That's eternal. 6. Charminar, Hyderabad : Where Cultures Converged Built in 1591, this four-towered monument stands at the heart of Hyderabad—not just geographically, but culturally. It symbolizes the fusion of Persian, Islamic, and Indian traditions. And in a free India, it stands as proof of our pluralism. On Independence Day, the area buzzes with tricolour flags, biryani stalls, and children singing patriotic songs in Urdu, Telugu, and Hindi. Charminar isn't just architecture. It's unity in stone. 7. Gateway of India, Mumbai : Where Empire Left, and Pride Entered Constructed to welcome a British king, the Gateway of India witnessed the exact opposite in 1948—when the last British troops marched out. That moment, silent and symbolic, marked the end of an era. Today, it's a gathering place for dreams—tourists, lovers, protesters, and poets. On Independence Day, stand beneath its grand arch and look out at the Arabian Sea. The waves haven't changed. But the people have. This is where India said, We are no longer subjects. We are sovereign. Why visit monuments on Independence Day? Isn't it just another holiday? Let's flip that. Independence Day isn't just a holiday. It's a reckoning. Monuments aren't just for photos. They're for presence. When you stand where history happened: You don't just learn about sacrifice. You honor it. You don't just see architecture. You feel legacy. You don't just celebrate freedom. You renew your promise to protect it. This isn't nostalgia. It's responsibility. Practical Tips: How to Honor History Like a True Patriot Go early. Beat the crowds. Arrive at sunrise. Watch the flag go up in silence. Carry a story, not just a camera. Read about the monument before you go. Share it with your kids. Make history personal. Respect the space. No loud music. No graffiti. These sites are sacred. Support local. Buy from nearby vendors. Hire local guides. Keep the spirit of swadeshi alive. Leave a note. At Sabarmati or Jallianwala Bagh, write a message of gratitude. Let the stones know we remember. The hidden power of monuments: Why this matters beyond patriotism This isn't just about pride. When you visit these sites: You keep memory alive in an age of forgetting. You support communities that depend on cultural tourism. You teach the next generation that freedom isn't free—it's fought for. Every footstep on these stones strengthens the foundation of the nation. In short: your visit isn't just a trip. It's an act of citizenship. So what's stopping you? A long queue? That's part of the journey. A hot day? That's how freedom feels—earned, not given. India, when remembered, becomes powerful. And while the country celebrates with parades and sweets, somewhere not far off, a flame burns in an eternal lamp. A guard stands at attention. A child recites the national pledge. And someone, you, could be there, not just watching—but witnessing. Not for a post. Not for a filter. Just for the truth. Final Thought Don't just celebrate Independence Day. Enter it. The next time August 15 arrives, don't just wave a flag at home. Go to the places where the flag was won. Because history doesn't send reminders. It leaves monuments. And they're waiting for you.
News18
3 days ago
- News18
Manushi Chillar Is Making White Tank Top And Black Pants Look Like A Hot Couture
Manushi Chillar was papped at the Mumbai airport ahead of jetting off to an undisclosed destination. Manushi Chhillar recently charmed everyone with her smile and casual vibe when she was spotted at the Mumbai airport this morning. The Miss World 2017, known for her notable roles in films like Samrat Prithviraj and Maalik, yet again captivated her fans with her minimal yet chic glam. The actress was, however, also seen shielding her skin from the hot and humid weather with the perfect accessories. In a video posted on Instagram, Manushi Chhillar was seen exiting her swanky four-wheeler as she walked towards the entrance of the Mumbai airport. The actress then took a pause and posed for the shutterbugs, flaunting her charming smile. After exuding pure elegance, the Samrat Prithviraj actress expressed her gratitude and bid adieu towards the paps. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Instant Bollywood (@instantbollywood) Manushi Chillar's Latest Travel Mode Is A Pure Glam Version Of Her Chic Style Soon after the video was posted, social media users flooded the comment section by posting appreciative emojis for Manushi's look. For the day, she picked a white tank top teamed with a pair of black-hued loose-fitting palazzo pants. The diva layered her ensemble with a black scarf to shield her skin from the hot and humid weather of the city. For accessories, the Operation Valentine star opted for a sleek leather arm candy, a pair of pink pump shoes and brown sunglasses. She kept her makeup subtle with a pink tint on her lips and left her tresses open and loose to cascade down her shoulders effortlessly. Manushi Chillar's Professional Front Manushi Chillar made her acting debut in 2022 with the role of Sanyogita in the historical drama Samrat Prithviraj. Since then, she has appeared in a number of movies, including The Great Indian Family, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, Operation Valentine and Maalik. Next, she will be seen in the action thriller movie titled Tehran, directed by Arun Gopalan and produced by Dinesh Vijan, Shobhna Yadav and Sandeep Leyzell. The winner of the Miss World 2017 pageant once revealed whether there are any stereotypes associated with the pageantry field. 'Whatever people have to say, it's their opinion, but for me personally, when I transitioned into films, I didn't feel like I had to do something very different or I had to be a certain way. I dress according to my job. I was a girl doing her job as Ms World, and I am a girl doing my job as an actor now," she told HT, adding, 'The first thing is that when people say that the world of beauty pageant is of glamour, I do not agree with that. It's that one night in 365 days when a girl is crowned, which you see on stage." 'The whole year, what you are doing is not a very glamorous job. I was working with a charity called Beauty With A Purpose, and we were constantly travelling to the remotest areas of different parts of the world, and that's not a very glamorous job. So, technically, what I had to do as a Miss World was not just wear a crown, dress up and get photographed. Probably the media covers that one night, which gets most spoken about," she concluded. First Published: August 12, 2025, 14:31 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
India.com
3 days ago
- India.com
7 Magical Tourist Destinations In Dalhousie That Feel Straight Out Of a Storybook And Will Mesmerise You Completely
Dalhousie isn't just a hill station. It's a mood. When the first morning mist curls over the Dhauladhar ranges, something stirs. The pines stand taller. The air smells like a poem. And somewhere between the British-era churches and quiet mountain paths, a softer, slower Dalhousie begins to speak. Most tourists come for Khajjiar — the 'Mini Switzerland of India.' They take a few photos. Eat some maggi. Leave. But what if we told you Dalhousie isn't for ticking boxes? It's for wandering. For stepping off Mall Road's bustle into trails that hum with cicadas, whispering pine needles, and stories carried in the cold mountain wind. Let's leave the main square. The hills are calling. What makes Dalhousie's charm different from anywhere else in Himachal? It's not just the views. It's the pace. Dalhousie isn't in a hurry. Its five hills — Bakrota, Kathlog, Potreyn, Terah, and Bhangora — are stitched together with winding lanes, old colonial houses, and trails that seem to exist only for the joy of walking. Unlike Manali's tourist traffic or Shimla's crowded ridge, Dalhousie offers space to breathe. Here, clouds stroll through the valleys without rush. Sunlight plays hide-and-seek with cedar branches. And even the shopkeepers pause to chat like old friends. This is a place where time takes the long route — and so should you. Tired of Khajjiar? These gems are waiting for you 1. Dainkund Peak – The Singing Hill Perched at 2,755 metres, Dainkund isn't just about the view — though you'll see snow-capped peaks stretch endlessly. What makes it special is the music. As the wind sweeps through pine and deodar trees, it hums — a natural melody that gave this place its name. In monsoon, wildflowers dot the slopes. In winter, snow crunches under your boots. A short trek from the base road takes you to the Pholani Devi Temple. From here, the valley rolls away in waves of green and gold. Come early. The song of Dainkund is best heard before the chatter of visitors begins. 2. Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary – Where the Forest Holds Its Breath This is Dalhousie's wild heart. Sprawling over 30 square kilometres, Kalatop is a tangle of oak, rhododendron, and deodar. The road from Lakkar Mandi to Kalatop is a slow climb into shadow and birdsong. Keep your eyes open — pheasants dart across the path, and if you're lucky, you might spot a Himalayan black bear in the distance. In summer, the forest smells of pine resin. In autumn, it glows amber. In winter, it turns into a silent snow maze. Walk the trails. Stop often. Listen more than you speak. 3. Chamera Lake – Dalhousie's Shimmering Escape Man-made, yet magical, Chamera Lake sits about 25 km from the town. Fed by the Ravi River, it reflects both the sky's moods and your own. Here, you can take a quiet boat ride, watch the hills ripple in the water, or simply sit on the banks with a thermos of chai. The best time to visit is late afternoon when the sun drops low and the lake turns to liquid gold. 4. Panchpula – Where Streams Tell Stories Just a few kilometres from Dalhousie, Panchpula is where gurgling streams meet pine-scented air. A small monument here honours Sardar Ajit Singh, a freedom fighter. But beyond the memorial lies a network of short trails and waterfalls. In monsoon, the water rushes faster. In winter, it slows to a gentle trickle. Either way, the sound is soothing — like a conversation you don't have to answer. 5. St. John's Church – Time Travel in Stone and Glass Dalhousie's oldest church, built in 1863, stands quietly amidst tall deodars. The stained-glass windows, imported from England, throw jewel-toned light onto worn wooden pews. It's not just a place of worship. It's a slice of history that has watched the town change from a British retreat to a modern hill station. If you visit on a misty morning, the church seems to float in a cloud. 6. Bakrota Hills – The Loop with a View The Bakrota loop road is more than a scenic drive — it's a meditation. This circular route offers panoramic views of snow peaks and valleys, with every bend revealing a new perspective. In spring, wildflowers edge the road. In winter, snow dusts the pines. And all year round, the air is crisp and clean. Walk a stretch if you can. The slower you go, the more you see. 7. Satdhara Falls – Seven Streams of Calm Satdhara means 'seven springs,' and true to its name, seven streams merge here, believed to have medicinal properties. The falls are a short walk from Panchpula, and the sound of water mingling with wind is its own therapy. Pack a small picnic. Stay awhile. Let the mist settle on your skin. Why explore Dalhousie beyond the obvious? Isn't the town small? Yes. And that's the beauty. Dalhousie isn't about rushing from one 'spot' to another. It's about sinking into the rhythm of the hills. Here's what these lesser-known places give you that the crowded centre won't: Quiet trails where your footsteps are the only sound. Views unbroken by selfie sticks. A slower heartbeat — yours, matching the mountains. Practical Tips: How to Wander Dalhousie Like a Local 1. Dress for layers – Mornings can be chilly, afternoons sunny, evenings cold again. A light jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and a scarf will serve you well. 2. Carry snacks and water – Many trails and viewpoints have no shops. Keep some fruit, nuts, or a chocolate bar handy. 3. Start early – Whether it's Dainkund or Kalatop, mornings offer clearer skies and fewer people. 4. Respect nature – Don't litter. Don't play loud music. Let the hills keep their peace. 5. Talk to locals – They'll tell you stories you won't find in guidebooks. The Quiet Economy of Dalhousie's Hidden Corners When you walk beyond Khajjiar, you do more than explore. You contribute. You buy tea from small stalls instead of big cafes. You encourage eco-tourism, which helps protect the forests. You keep lesser-known spots alive by showing they matter. Every photo from Bakrota Hills, every step in Kalatop, is proof that Dalhousie is more than its postcard views. Final Thoughts Don't just visit Dalhousie. Let it slow you down. The next time you're here, don't stick to the checklist. Take the road that curves into the pines. Sit by a stream without checking the time. Watch the clouds drift like lazy travellers across the sky. Because Dalhousie doesn't just change your view. It changes your pace. And maybe, just maybe — that's what you've been looking for all along.
