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India.com
13-07-2025
- India.com
If Netflix Made A Horror Series On Indore, These Legends Would Be The Plot
Seeped in fascinating ancient culture while keeping up with modern ways, the city of Indore is located at the heart of Madhya Pradesh. The streets of the city are filled with industrial activity, which showcases Indore's contemporary side. Alongside the modernity, Indore possesses myths and stories that many people have not heard of, providing a glimpse into the city's heritage. The amalgamation of such ancient tales, along with contemporary culture, and the bustling industry contributes greatly to Indore's identity. Story of Ahilyabai Holkar One of the most known and loved rulers in Indore's history is Queen Ahilyabai Holkar. Legend has it that she was wise, compassionate, and dedicated to her people. What is truly remarkable about her, is the myth that surrounds her tale, which gives her story an extra edge. Goddess Annapurna is said to have come in her dreams and told her to construct temples all over the Indian subcontinent. Inspired by such dreams, Ahilyabai set out on a mission to restore the spiritual heritage of India by building temples of Kashi and Rameswaram. In addition, many other folk legends narrate how she could foresee problems before they occurred and take steps to ensure the destruction of Indore was avoided. She became saintly in the eyes of her people for saving Indore from countless disasters that would have resulted in great destruction. Facts At A Glance: Holkar ruled over Indore from 1767 to 1795. She is renowned for constructing many ghats and temples, including the renowned Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi. Curse of Patalpani Waterfalls Situated close to Indore is the astounding Patalpani waterfall that is steeped in lore and fiction. According to the local legend, these waterfalls are linked to the `Patal` (netherworld). The story goes that people touring these waterfalls will suffer terrible consequences if they approach them with bad intentions or show irreverence to nature. Some village folk indeed believe that due to multiple drownings and accidents that have occurred there, the place is cursed. A wandering holy man who we are told used to meditate at Patalpani had cursed the site because of its wanton visitors disrupting him. Now revered as the god of these slothful people, he claimed the soft smiling face of Patalpani would cruelly snuff life from the careless. While enjoying this lovely spot locals take caution for her oncoming wrath. Patalpani is now a popular picnic spot. Facts At A Glance: The beautiful Patalpani Waterfall is located about 35 kilometers from Indore. Its height exceeds 300 feet and is prismatic like during the streams of monsoons. Ghost of Chhatri Bagh Chhatri Bagh isn't just a beautiful garden adorned with cenotaphs and exquisite architecture, but it also has its share of legends. One of which is a tale about a ghostly figure that reportedly roams the gardens at night. Some people claim it is a Holkar king's spirit that still keeps an eye on his dynasty's legacy. As the years have gone by, these ghostly stories have become even more bizarre. Many night guards and locals claim to have spotted some ghostly figures or listened to whispering voices. Even with the eerie stories surrounding it, Chhatri Bagh is still considered to be a monument of Indore's phenomenal history and is a must visit for all historians. Quick Facts: Chhatri Bagh contains several cenotaphs of the Holkar rulers. The area becomes lit up during the night, looking absolutely magical. Mysterious Idol of Khajrana Ganesh Temple Chaotic as it might seem, the Khajrana Ganesh temple is one of Indore's most famous temples- people from different parts of the country flock during holidays to visit it. Very few people know the legend surrounding its inception though. It is said that the idol of Lord Ganesha was buried in the ground to be shielded from Mughal invaders. It was later rediscovered by a local follower after he was revealed in a dream. Many miracles are connected with this temple. Devotees assert that their wishes are granted after offering prayers here, and the faith is so deep that even politicians and other big shots tend to visit the temple for its blessings. Quick Facts: The temple was built by Rani Ahilyabai Holkar. The idol of Ganesha is done in a rare black stone. Tale Of The Rajwada's Secret Tunnel Rajwada, indore's historic palace is an extravagant architecture and astonishing stories amalgamated in one. Among its intriguing tales, the foremost is the famed secret tunnel said to be hidden under the palace. Proponents' skirt story tells that this tunnel links Rajwada with neighboring forts, and provides an avenue for escape during times of invasions. As much as it would be fascinating if history did have more conclusive evidence towards this line of thought, the story has certainly added some flavor to locals and historians. Some senior citizens even say that the tunnel has magical guardians who make sure that it remains a mystery to everyone but those with a good and pure heart. This enhances the attractiveness of Rajwada and indeed makes the building look elignet. Fast Facts: Rajwada is more than 200 years old and was built by the Holkar dynasty. Withstanding many fires, the palace continues to be a mark of Indore's fortitude. Wrapping Up The fables and folklore of Indore are much more than fanciful tales; they form an intrinsic part of the city's culture which connects its rich history with the modern world. The stories that have been narrated over the years capture the 'believability' and 'creativity' of people who have dwelt in Indore. From appreciating the 'spiritual' heritage of Ahilyabai Holkar to the enigma that is Rajwada and the stunning Khajrana Ganesh Temple, one can see that these legends beautify each inch of the city. So, the next time you roam the streets of Indore, make sure to look closer. You will hear the stories of the city's heroes.
India.com
15-06-2025
- General
- India.com
Discover The Myths That Shape Bengaluru's Cultural Landscape
The urban hub of Bengaluru continues to merge its progressive technological development with a solid foundation of cultural history as the 'Silicon Valley of India.' The ancestral collection of local legends and myths has molded the city identity of Bengaluru since ancient times despite its thriving IT zones and city lifestyle. Through their narratives and historical significance, Bengalsuru shows its depth in addition to creating a distinctive personality that defines its identity. Founding Legend: Kempe Gowda and the Bull Statue A persistent legend focuses on Kempe Gowda I who ruled in the Vijayanagara period because he established Bengaluru as we know it today. Kempe Gowda decided to construct his city at the spot where he witnessed a hare defeating a dog because he saw this unusual event as a symbol of endurance. The witnessing of this incident led Kempe Gowda to found Bengaluru during 1537 CE. As part of his city establishment Kempe Gowda constructed four watchtowers that modern people call the KempeGowda Towers. Local legend attributes a Nandi statue to Bull Temple in Basavanagudi which serves as one of the traditional symbols of this tale. The local people believe Kempe Gowda constructed the temple after witnessing divine events during his construction of his planned city. These landmarks demonstrate Bengaluru's ancient past and people from both local and tourist groups come to visit them now. Curse of Hallemane and Ulsoor Lake A myth regarding Bengaluru's oldest man-made reservoir known as Ulsoor Lake exists. Local tradition reports the curse of Hallemane on the waterbody after she lived near the lake. The lake resources caused domestic trouble to her family because of alleged mismanagement or exploitation. Frustration led Hallemane to curse the waterbody that she believed would cease being at peace. Through multiple years Ulsoor Lake has confronted various problems that include pollution levels and both encroachment attempts and natural flood risks. Local people persist in following the curse story even though experts attribute downtown growth and environmental carelessness to the lake problems thus adding mystery to its historical narrative. History of Lalbagh Botanical Garden The historical landmark known as Lalbagh Botanical Garden in Bengaluru receives accolades from both historical events and local tales throughout history. The garden received its name 'Lalbagh' from the period when it was covered in red roses during the time of Hyder Ali who was Tipu Sultan's father. Beyond its floral attraction, Lalbagh holds multiple other attractions for visitors. The garden has an obscure historical connection to Tipu Sultan. According to historical accounts Tipu Sultan designed Lalbagh as his earthly paradise which he fashioned after Persian garden designs. He carefully designed Lalbagh for people to access as a place of mental and reflective retreat. The most interesting claims about Lalbagh involve the possibility that military operatives used hidden subterranean tunnels in their strategies to fight against the British East India Company. While historians question whether actual tunnels existed beneath Lalbagh the mythological story helps make the fortress more interesting to explore. Gangadhareshwara Temple and the Sun's Alignment The Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple at Gavipuram contains both scientific importance alongside sacred religious traditions. During the 9th century Cholas constructed this temple cave which worships Lord Shiva as its main deity. Sun rays which pass through Nandi's horns create a special light effect to illuminate the worshipped lingam within the temple's inner sanctum during select annual periods. Makar Sankranti serves as the annual festival during which the Sun undergoes its movement from Sagittarius to Capricorn. Many religious followers visit the temple each year to observe the holy occurrence that they believe demonstrates divine architectural skill. The temple showcases exceptional architectural precision because ancient Indian astronomers shared sophisticated knowledge that creates a masterpiece that transcends mere spiritual needs. Ghost Stories of Bangalore Fort The historical Bangalore Fort which Kempe Gowda first built later underwent expansion through the efforts of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan maintains a dark atmosphere. Local people share strange reports of spirit sightings together with unexplained activities taking place at the decaying fort walls. Several ghost narratives share the tale of soldiers that served Tipu Sultan who watched over Bangalore Fort after their deaths. People who doubt the supernatural stories nonetheless feel drawn to the strong ghostly energy which permeates the fort. These ghost stories, whether real or not, give historical sites of Bengaluru an inexplicable aura that attracts people who want to experience both excitement and dread. Creatures and Folktales Numerous folktales about mythical creatures together with supernatural beings reside throughout Bengaluru's rural outskirts. Local residents in the village share experiences about Pishachas (ghosts) and Yakshis (female spirits) reported to haunt empty forests. The tales from Bengaluru serve to warn people about risks of nighttime exploration of uncharted locations. Folktales illustrate how traditional cultures maintain dual feelings between nature worship and its frightening elements. Modern culture benefits from these traditional storytelling means because they mainline both inter-tribal connections and cultural wisdom during transmission to newer age groups. Final Thoughts Bengaluru's essence integrates historical significance with spiritual charm demonstrated through the manuscripts and folk stories surrounding Kempe Gowda's establishment and temple treasures. The narratives reveal important secrets about the city's deepest nature as they showcase its people's beliefs and its growth across time. Bengaluru functions as an exceptional city because it embraces its dynamic historical heritage which ties the part with present innovations.
Glasgow Times
05-06-2025
- Sport
- Glasgow Times
Can Liam Delap finally end the curse of Chelsea's number nine shirt?
The shirt had been unused for two full seasons, former manager Thomas Tuchel admitting 'nobody wants to touch it', after its last dozen occupants struggled to make a prolonged impact – including three club-record signings up front, but also a holding midfielder and a certain Dutch defender. Our new No.9. 😍 — Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) June 5, 2025 Here, the PA news agency looks at the 'Curse of Khalid Boulahrouz'. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, 2022-23 After arriving with a broken jaw sustained in a robbery at his Barcelona home and seeing his former Borussia Dortmund boss Tuchel sacked the day after his debut, the ex-Arsenal star failed to establish himself in west London. He was not even included in the squad for the Champions League knock-out stages, despite scoring two of his three Chelsea goals in the group stage. Romelu Lukaku, 2021-22 Romelu Lukaku struggled at Chelsea as Thomas Tuchel said the number nine shirt was 'cursed' (John Walton/PA) The Belgium striker returned from Inter Milan for £97.5m for a second spell at the club but within months, his frustrations became clear in an interview with Sky Sport Italia. Despite 15 goals in all competitions, it was no surprise when he was loaned back to Inter then Roma before joining Napoli. Tammy Abraham, 2019-21 Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink was the last inarguably-successful Chelsea number nine but amid over £250m spent to fill the troublesome shirt in the 18 years since his departure, academy product Abraham produced perhaps the most successful spell with 30 goals in two seasons to earn a move to Roma under former Blues boss Jose Mourinho. Gonzalo Higuain, 2018-19 The Argentinian's loan from Juventus yielded just five goals in 18 appearances. Alvaro Morata, 2017-18 Alvaro Morata spent only one season wearing the famous digit (Adam Davy/PA) A then club-record buy for £60m, the Spaniard scored 15 goals in his debut season but fell out of favour, netting nine more as number 29 before joining Atletico Madrid. Radamel Falcao, 2015-16 The Colombian scored once in 12 games in an injury-hit season. Fernando Torres, 2011-14 Fernando Torres had an inconsistent spell at Stamford Bridge (Anthony Devlin/PA) The then British-record £50m signing from Liverpool got the longest run at making the Blues' number nine shirt work for him, wearing it 172 times across three-and-a-half seasons. He scored 45 goals, including a memorable Champions League semi-final clincher against Barcelona, but several prolonged droughts saw him move on to AC Milan, on loan, and then Atletico Madrid. Franco Di Santo, 2008-09 Fourteen scoreless substitute appearances were all Di Santo had to show for his time in west London. Steve Sidwell, 2007-08 The former Reading midfielder managed only 24 appearances, scoring once. A largely-defensive player, he would have been a glaringly unlikely number nine, had it not been for his immediate predecessor… Khalid Boulahrouz, 2006-07 Khalid Boulahrouz's shirt number raised eyebrows (Max Nash/PA) The versatile Netherlands defender was assigned one of the few available numbers after his £8.5m arrival from Hamburg. He lasted one season and 23 appearances in all competitions before a loan to Sevilla and a permanent exit to Stuttgart. Hernan Crespo, 2005-06 The Argentina striker had already spent a season at Stamford Bridge wearing number 21 – scoring 12 goals – and a year on loan at AC Milan before Mourinho recalled him and gave him number nine. He added another 13 goals and a league title but soon left for Inter. Mateja Kezman, 2004-05 Inheriting the shirt from Hasselbaink, Kezman scored just seven goals in his sole season.
North Wales Chronicle
05-06-2025
- Sport
- North Wales Chronicle
Can Liam Delap finally end the curse of Chelsea's number nine shirt?
The shirt had been unused for two full seasons, former manager Thomas Tuchel admitting 'nobody wants to touch it', after its last dozen occupants struggled to make a prolonged impact – including three club-record signings up front, but also a holding midfielder and a certain Dutch defender. Our new No.9. 😍 — Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) June 5, 2025 Here, the PA news agency looks at the 'Curse of Khalid Boulahrouz'. After arriving with a broken jaw sustained in a robbery at his Barcelona home and seeing his former Borussia Dortmund boss Tuchel sacked the day after his debut, the ex-Arsenal star failed to establish himself in west London. He was not even included in the squad for the Champions League knock-out stages, despite scoring two of his three Chelsea goals in the group stage. The Belgium striker returned from Inter Milan for £97.5m for a second spell at the club but within months, his frustrations became clear in an interview with Sky Sport Italia. Despite 15 goals in all competitions, it was no surprise when he was loaned back to Inter then Roma before joining Napoli. Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink was the last inarguably-successful Chelsea number nine but amid over £250m spent to fill the troublesome shirt in the 18 years since his departure, academy product Abraham produced perhaps the most successful spell with 30 goals in two seasons to earn a move to Roma under former Blues boss Jose Mourinho. The Argentinian's loan from Juventus yielded just five goals in 18 appearances. A then club-record buy for £60m, the Spaniard scored 15 goals in his debut season but fell out of favour, netting nine more as number 29 before joining Atletico Madrid. The Colombian scored once in 12 games in an injury-hit season. The then British-record £50m signing from Liverpool got the longest run at making the Blues' number nine shirt work for him, wearing it 172 times across three-and-a-half seasons. He scored 45 goals, including a memorable Champions League semi-final clincher against Barcelona, but several prolonged droughts saw him move on to AC Milan, on loan, and then Atletico Madrid. Fourteen scoreless substitute appearances were all Di Santo had to show for his time in west London. The former Reading midfielder managed only 24 appearances, scoring once. A largely-defensive player, he would have been a glaringly unlikely number nine, had it not been for his immediate predecessor… The versatile Netherlands defender was assigned one of the few available numbers after his £8.5m arrival from Hamburg. He lasted one season and 23 appearances in all competitions before a loan to Sevilla and a permanent exit to Stuttgart. The Argentina striker had already spent a season at Stamford Bridge wearing number 21 – scoring 12 goals – and a year on loan at AC Milan before Mourinho recalled him and gave him number nine. He added another 13 goals and a league title but soon left for Inter. Inheriting the shirt from Hasselbaink, Kezman scored just seven goals in his sole season.
South Wales Guardian
05-06-2025
- Sport
- South Wales Guardian
Can Liam Delap finally end the curse of Chelsea's number nine shirt?
The shirt had been unused for two full seasons, former manager Thomas Tuchel admitting 'nobody wants to touch it', after its last dozen occupants struggled to make a prolonged impact – including three club-record signings up front, but also a holding midfielder and a certain Dutch defender. Our new No.9. 😍 — Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) June 5, 2025 Here, the PA news agency looks at the 'Curse of Khalid Boulahrouz'. After arriving with a broken jaw sustained in a robbery at his Barcelona home and seeing his former Borussia Dortmund boss Tuchel sacked the day after his debut, the ex-Arsenal star failed to establish himself in west London. He was not even included in the squad for the Champions League knock-out stages, despite scoring two of his three Chelsea goals in the group stage. The Belgium striker returned from Inter Milan for £97.5m for a second spell at the club but within months, his frustrations became clear in an interview with Sky Sport Italia. Despite 15 goals in all competitions, it was no surprise when he was loaned back to Inter then Roma before joining Napoli. Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink was the last inarguably-successful Chelsea number nine but amid over £250m spent to fill the troublesome shirt in the 18 years since his departure, academy product Abraham produced perhaps the most successful spell with 30 goals in two seasons to earn a move to Roma under former Blues boss Jose Mourinho. The Argentinian's loan from Juventus yielded just five goals in 18 appearances. A then club-record buy for £60m, the Spaniard scored 15 goals in his debut season but fell out of favour, netting nine more as number 29 before joining Atletico Madrid. The Colombian scored once in 12 games in an injury-hit season. The then British-record £50m signing from Liverpool got the longest run at making the Blues' number nine shirt work for him, wearing it 172 times across three-and-a-half seasons. He scored 45 goals, including a memorable Champions League semi-final clincher against Barcelona, but several prolonged droughts saw him move on to AC Milan, on loan, and then Atletico Madrid. Fourteen scoreless substitute appearances were all Di Santo had to show for his time in west London. The former Reading midfielder managed only 24 appearances, scoring once. A largely-defensive player, he would have been a glaringly unlikely number nine, had it not been for his immediate predecessor… The versatile Netherlands defender was assigned one of the few available numbers after his £8.5m arrival from Hamburg. He lasted one season and 23 appearances in all competitions before a loan to Sevilla and a permanent exit to Stuttgart. The Argentina striker had already spent a season at Stamford Bridge wearing number 21 – scoring 12 goals – and a year on loan at AC Milan before Mourinho recalled him and gave him number nine. He added another 13 goals and a league title but soon left for Inter. Inheriting the shirt from Hasselbaink, Kezman scored just seven goals in his sole season.
