Latest news with #HawaMahal
India.com
02-06-2025
- India.com
7 Breathtaking Motorcycle Rides You Must Experience From Delhi
Delhi functions as both a cultural hub and historical center and provides access to extraordinary northern Indian natural areas. Motorcycle enthusiasts find pure satisfaction in exploring destinations that lead through mountains along with deserts and forests and cross rivers. The following list features seven excellent motorcycle trails departing from Delhi which will amaze any rider who enjoys adventure. 1. Manali via Chandigarh (NH44/NH21) Passing through Delhi you will find many individuals choose to travel by motorcycle to Manali which locals call the 'Queen of Hills.' Starting on National Highway 44 (NH44) you travel to Chandigarh until you continue on NH21 towards Manali. The journey starts with Haryana and Punjab plains before reaching the green mountain valleys of Himachal Pradesh. A significant touristic area along this road includes the Pinjore Gardens close to Chandigarh while Kasauli maintains a peaceful atmosphere and the Solang Valley presents itself to travelers when they get to Manali. As a road journey which lasts 570 km it provides perfect mountain views and cold climate for bike riders. 2. Rishikesh via Haridwar (NH58) Any person seeking relaxation through spiritual discovery and the beauty of nature should start driving towards Rishikesh by taking the NH58 route from Delhi through Haridwar. The 230 km path takes road travelers through multiple charming towns beginning at Meerut and Muzaffarnagar and ending in Haridwar. The road from there leads directly to Rishikesh where the Ganges River flows along its banks. The journey provides breathtaking views of dense forests together with riverfront landscapes and scenes of rural living options. Take time to visit Lakshman Jhula and Triveni Ghat since they offer unforgettable moments. 3. Jaipur via Neemrana Fort (NH48) Fitting into the same period of time as the previous ride is the journey to Jaipur which makes Rajasthan's Pink City come alive. Traveling along NH48 will take you through 260 kilometers where you can experience the Aravalli Range's fort and palace elements scattered across its range. Visitors should prioritize visiting Neemrana Fort because its hilltop position offers sensational landscape views to everyone. When getting close to Jaipur you will find a transition from the green landscapes into the dry desert regions of Rajasthan that showcase its royal traditions. During your visit to Jaipur you should discover the important sites which include Amber Fort alongside Hawa Mahal and Jal Mahal. 4. Nainital via Moradabad (NH9) A trip to Nainital experienced by nature lovers presents the perfect chance to visit this natural destination. Delhi serves as the starting point from where you should take NH9 to Moradabad and Rampur. Riding the 300-kilometre path offers the combination of undulating hills together with thick forests and delightful villages. After reaching the town visitors will encounter the serene Naini Lake which is enveloped by elevated peaks. The correlation of natural sites around this destination includes Bhimtal along with Sattal and Jim Corbett National Park which offers both scenic and adventure-filled experiences. 5. Shimla via Kalka (NH44/NH22) The Delhi-Shimla highway offers motorcycle enthusiasts two different national highway segments starting from NH44 through Kalka before proceeding on NH22. With 350 kilometers of passage the trip is distinguished by sharp turns alongside challenging elevation changes that offer breathtaking Himalayan mountain views. Along the journey you will experience delightful stops at Parwanoo followed by Solan allowing time for enjoyable food tasting and handicraft shopping. The end destination of Shimla provides Colonial buildings together with miniature railway rides that allow you to witness snow-capped peaks completely. 6. Sariska Tiger Reserve via Alwar (NH48) The journey to Sariska Tiger Reserve through Alwar brings an exciting experience for all wildlife enthusiasts. The 200-kilometer distance from Delhi along NH48 unfolds the rough beauty of Rajasthan. Visitors should stop in Alwar to appreciate the heritage sites before progressing toward Sariska. Sariska Tiger Reserve contains all three members of the big cat family together with numerous types of birds making it attractive to wildlife observers. Sariska Tiger Reserve presents an exceptional natural environment from its dry deciduous forests and its rock formations. 7. Mukteshwar via Kathgodam (NH9) Sitting in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand you will find the hidden destination of Mukteshwar which provides peaceful retreats and breathtaking mountain vistas. Naturally, the excursion starts from NH9 while traveling through Moradabad and Kathgodam before concluding at 350 kilometers. Absent altitude elevations the air maintains fresh quality and the landscape transitions into lush greenery. Mukteshwar receives its fame from its apple orchards while featuring historic temples as well as elevated viewpoints facing the grand Himalayan mountain range. Mukteshwar stands out for those people who need a peaceful escape from urban bustle to connect with nature. Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Ride These following steps must be considered before starting any motorcycle rides. Review the weather predictions and check the road report(status) before you depart. Each journey requires appropriate protective equipment that must include helmets with gloves together with jackets. Keep yourself hydrated by carrying enough water together with snacks for sustaining your energy during the whole journey. Regular maintenance checks on your bike will be crucial during long-distance driving because your motorcycle needs to function properly. When visiting towns and villages maintain both respect for traffic regulations and customs that prevail in these places. Emergency Kit: Keep a basic toolkit and first-aid kit handy for unexpected situations. Your backpack should contain only vital items because it balances motorcycle riding and ensures comfort. Conclusion Motorcyclists should use Delhi as their base to access multiple thrilling adventures which come with distinctive challenges yet rewarding experiences. Seven interstate routes throughout the nation take travelers to unforgettable destinations because they lead to the Himalayas for high-altitude thrills as well as historical sites in Rajasthan and relaxing experiences in Uttarakhand hills. Start preparing yourself while developing your journey plan because you are about to generate everlasting memories.
India.com
25-05-2025
- General
- India.com
Explore The Myths Behind Jaipur's Rich Cultural Heritage
The Indian city of Rajasthan which serves as its capital stands as a historical place with vibrant cultural heritage and traditional customs. Jaipur holds its fame as the 'Pink City' because its unique terracotta construction defines its appearance throughout the entire city. Alongside physical landmarks Jaipur preserves countless stories which formed its cultural identity throughout many years. These stories maintain a dual role by showing cultural and religious characteristics of the region but serving as awareness of past times to current times. Founding Myth of Jaipur: A Divine Blueprint Legend presents Jaipur as a 1727 creation by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II who founded the city. History reveals that before building his new city the king consulted divine sources for guidance. The story tells of how he gathered scholars with astrologers and priests to find the most fortunate site and design for the city establishment. The identified placement was used to develop an elaborate urban design which implemented principles from Vastu Shastra alongside Shilpa Shastras. Based on this cosmic alignment the designers arranged Jaipur into nine adjacent rectangular blocks which signify the nine planets or Navagrahas. All blocks received specific tasks for residential homes and markets alongside administrative buildings and religious centers which also reflected celestial associations. Key landmarks such as the City Palace and Hawa Mahal within this design schema demonstrate the local belief that Jaipur represents a miniature version of the universe. Through its mythological basis Jaipur establishes itself as an exceptional city that beautifully unites natural philosophy with spiritualism and visual beauty. Fort and the Curse of Raja Man Singh Amer Fort stands as another legendary site related to local legends outside Jaipur city limits. Raja Man Singh I established this fort during the late 16th century to manage Kachwaha Rajput authority until the Rajput rulers founded Jaipur as their capital. The popular story linking Amer Fort to Raja Man Singh features how sage Goswami Tulsidas placed a curse against him when the king insulted him during a discourse. Raja Man Singh committed an insult against Tulsidas when they met during a religious discourse so the sage pronounced a curse on him. A curse supposedly ended upon the release of the construction project which resulted in the magnificent Krishna Temple built for Lord Krishna inside the fort complex. The temple preserves its status as a tribute to devotion while also serving redemption which continuously attracts worshippers alongside visitors who admire both its carved details and peaceful atmosphere. Historical figures in Jaipur demonstrate how royalty interacts with spirituality which reflects a standard pattern in the cultural history of the region. Fort and the Ghostly Pact The Nahargarh Fort sets enthroned on the Aravalli Hills with Jaipur views while sharing yet another story about a ghostly pact. The workers who built the fort in the 18th century faced unpredictable obstacles every night which delayed construction despite their best work. According to local beliefs at that time these disturbances emanated from the restless spirit of Rathore prince Nahar Singh Bhomia who used to own the land where Nahargarh Fort presently exists. An agreement was supposedly made between Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II and the ghost to bring an end to the disturbances. To finish the fort construction the king offered to construct a shrine honoring Nahar Singh which would be built inside the fort grounds. The shrine continues to exist as it did in the past to satisfy curiosity about its mysterious atmosphere. The legend about Nahargarh Fort adds both paranormal elements to the fort alongside demonstrating Rajasthani cultural customs for honoring ancestral spirits. Mahal and the Mystical Lake Jal Mahal represents an enchanting Water Palace located in the middle of Mansagar Lake which adds more mysteries to its reputation. Jal Mahal has multiple informal legends that connect the lake to buried treasure and magical events despite the absence of one final version. People hold two contradicting beliefs about the lake where first some stand by its theory of astrological chambers containing royal treasures then secondly other citizens share their experiences of observing ghostly beings on the lake during twilight hours. The stories gain their special power because they derive from Rajasthan's dry terrain. Wetlands in Indian desert areas occupy a powerful symbolic role since they symbolize opportunities of existence alongside life-supporting powers and blessings from heaven. Through Jal Mahal the people from different generations gave tribute to nature as they saw water as its sacred offerings. and Festivals: Living Traditions Meetings by Living Traditions and Multiplied Folklore Create an Integral Component of Jaipur's Collective Profile. Traditional narratives of bravery and love along with tales of dedication which older generations handed down now motivate present-day festivals including Teej, Gangaur and Makar Sankranti. At these nationwide celebrations the residents fill festive costumes to execute Ghoomar traditional dance and spread stories about legendary supernatural beings. During Gangaur the residents carry divine goddess symbols through decorated processional routes to venerate Goddess Parvati who is Lord Shiva's life partner. Teej marks the sacred day when Lord Shiva married Parvati by focusing on the scenic themes of marital happiness and love. These rituals protect traditional customs of Jaipur and unite citizens through their shared memory while safeguarding the city's historical heritage. Final Thoughts The fundamental fabric of Jaipur's identity combines religious foundation with tales of darkness and supernatural experiences as well as sacred waters and mysterious ruins which transcend generations. These urban legends function as windows into how the builders and dwellers of the city thought as well as which beliefs directed their behavior. Jaipur transcends its physical construction to become a living place because its existence depends on the stories which humans share again and again. Every visitor to Jaipur will uncover the ancient allure of its legends through which this magical city brings its soul to life.
India.com
22-05-2025
- India.com
10 Must-Know Facts That Make Jaipur City Unique
The capital city of Rajasthan in India combines traditional heritage with modern urban developments within its historic walls which give Jaipur its distinctive pink distinction. Traveled by history seekers and tourists alike, Jaipur wins its 'Pink City' designation because of its original terracotta architectural style which marks every building in this cultural area. This article presents 10 intriguing details about the famous Indian city which deserves knowledge by everyone. 1. The Pink City's Unique Nickname The Older districts of Jaipur got named the 'Pink City' because of their pink-painted buildings. The royal request for an entire pink-colored Jaipur emerged in 1876 as Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II prepared to receive Prince of Wales Albert Edward (future King Edward VII). In Indian culture pink represents hospitality which now defines Jaipur as a city symbolized by this color. The walled city buildings must continue to display pink colors because current laws enforce this requirement. 2. A Planned City Ahead of Its Time Indian history records Jaipur as an early accomplishment in city planning among its colonial settlements. The founder Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II established the city during 1727 through careful Vastu Shastra principles and ancient urban design techniques based on grids. The city streets organize into a precise nine-square pattern through comprehensive avenues that divide it into different sectors. Jaipur received the status of UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019 due to its well-considered architectural design. 3. The Architectural Marvels of Jaipur Jaipur stands out because it contains several important architectural treasures and historical landmarks that represent Indian heritage. Visitors should see the colorful Amber Fort together with the famous Hawa Mahal ('Palace of Winds') and City Palace and UNESCO World Heritage Site Jantar Mantar and Nahargarh Fort. The buildings throughout the city combine the architecture of Rajput alongside Mughal along with European styles in order to represent the diverse cultural legacy of this area. The outstanding facility at Jantar Mantar consists of an astronomical observatory displaying the world's biggest stone sundial. 4. A Hub for Gemstone Trade Jaipur holds global distinction as the 'Gemstone Capital of the World.'. Gemstone cutting along with polishing and jewelry creation are the hallmark practices for which this city has achieved worldwide recognition. The artisans who labor throughout Johari Bazaar sector create astonishing jewelry out of gemstones including emeralds and rubies and sapphires and diamonds. Gemstones exported from Jaipur generate substantial economic impact on India's economy while traditional skills are safeguarded throughout the process. 5. Birthplace of Block Printing Textiles Traditional textile arts, especially block printing, have maintained their center of excellence in Jaipur for many years. Artists create complex fabric designs on cotton and silk materials by pressing wooden block prints into cloth. The rural community of Bagru in close proximity to Jaipur thrives because of its environmentally safe vegetable dye block printing craftsmanship. Tourists visit both Bapu Bazaar and Tripolia Bazar to acquire colorful textiles made locally since these serve both as gifts and mementos. 6. Rich Culinary Heritage Jaipur cuisine presents a unique combination of royal luxury and traditional country-style food. Traditional food staples in this region include Dal Baati Churma as well as Ghevar Laal Maas together with Pyaaz Kachori. Most cooking recipes began in the royal Rajput kitchens where they favored preparations that needed slow cooking combined with robust spice blends. Tourists can both discover local restaurants and participate in food preparation sessions that give insights into native cooking traditions. 7. Home to the Largest Literary Festival Months before the arrival of summer Jaipur presents its renowned Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF) which gained the title 'Greatest Literary Show on Earth.' Every January JLF provides its venue at the historic Diggi Palace where it welcomes global participants including authors, poets, thinkers and book enthusiasts. Multiple languages become the focus as the festival includes panel discussions combined with readings and performances and widespread linguistic debates to recognize every method of literary expression. The festival organizes what is now classified as the world's biggest free literary gathering. 8. Connection to Bollywood and Cinema Throughout several decades Bollywood filmmakers frequently chose Jaipur as their preferred setting for multiple movie productions. Several famous Indian films Gadar: Ek Prem Katha and Bunty Aur Babli and Padmavat have prominently showcased Jaipur's beautiful forts and palaces. Luxury hotels in Jaipur including Rambagh Palace and Samode Haveli function as glamorous sites by consistently receiving celebrities and dignitaries. 9. Wildlife and Nature Reserves Natural environments combined with wildlife sanctuaries lie adjacent to the urban areas of Jaipur. The Aravalli Hills form an attractive natural border around the city to enable both trekking and outdoor recreation. Visitors may observe leopards alongside tigers combined with deer and numerous bird species at the Nahargarh Biological Park and Sariska Tiger Reserve which are neighboring park areas. The urban green spaces provide people with relaxing destinations to escape the active city environment. 10. Festivals That Showcase Culture Jaipur enters its festive state to showcase the cultural traditions of its people. The city residents celebrate Teej and Gangaur and Elephant Festival by organizing colorful processions and music performances and dancing while decorating everything in sight. The Elephant Festival hosts decorated elephants for parades which bring immense delight to both local residents and visitors before Holi takes place. These festivals serve as windows through which visitors can discover both the energetic social customs and community involvement typical of the people of Rajasthan. Conclusion Jaipur functions beyond its tag as a tourist hot spot since it remains an active representation of India's historic greatness together with its active contemporary development. The city features vibrant pink walls together with extraordinary fortifications and active cultural activities and delightful food choices. Visitors who want to experience Jaipur can discover its historic monuments along with gemstone purchases along with participating in traditional festivals for an experience they will never forget. These ten significant details about Jaipur should be on your mind during your planning phase because they enhance your city experience fundamentally.
Time of India
27-04-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
After Pahalgam, Punjab extended help, not hate
Jalandhar: Notwithstanding its political fluidity, Punjab's organic and nuanced reaction after the Pahalgam massacre has once again demonstrated that it remains one of the most socially and communally stable states in the country. There were no incidents where the state govt or official machinery had to make significant efforts for social-communal amity. There were several instances where groups or activists offered assistance to any Kashmiri student in distress. Incidents of hate speeches or targeting of Muslims in general, or Kashmiris in particular, occurred in some states, including Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Rajasthan, and a few other places. A restaurant worker was killed, and his co-worker was injured in Agra, UP, and the Kashatariya Gau Raksha Dal claimed responsibility, calling it retribution for the Pahalgam massacre. In Rajasthan, Hawa Mahal BJP MLA Balmukundacharya was booked for allegedly putting a poster inside a mosque premises in Jaipur during a protest against the massacre. In comparison, two aspects of the reaction in Punjab were clearly visible: unequivocal and strong condemnation of the terror attack and solidarity with the victims by all quarters, but no hate for the Kashmiris or Muslims, or holding the community accountable, and refusing to get carried away with the "sentiment" of collective punishment. When Kendri Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Chandigarh, posted a message on the night of April 24, asking Kashmiri students in Chandigarh and surrounding areas in trouble and requiring immediate help to contact and reach personally on its campus, it appeared to express the larger reaction. Other Sikh groups also responded quickly, posting similar messages on social media or reaching out to them on the ground. Later, it provided numbers of activities across districts, and there were more such messages from different quarters. Administration and police authorities reached out to Kashmiri students and their institutions and issued advisories, but they did not need to manage the situations that occurred in a few other states. Amid such an atmosphere in the state, the migration of Muslims from UP to Punjab, the only Sikh majority state in the country, has increased in the last few years. While Punjab remains politically fluid, the state has also been witnessing the mobilisation of farmers and others on the ground on other issues, including the sacrilege of Guru Granth Sahib. However, the people in the state have been careful in reacting to provocations. Communities and caste groups have been responding to different issues carefully, not allowing them to become one community versus the other. "Punjabis have been treading quite carefully. In Punjab, no party or group had to make any extra effort to make people react the way they have reacted. It was an organic response from Punjab to express complete solidarity with the victims but not hold Muslims or Kashmiris responsible as a community. This is the influence of the Sikh Gurus' teachings on the moral fabric of the people across communities," said political-social commentator Rakesh Shantidoot. MSID:: 120669982 413 |
India.com
27-04-2025
- General
- India.com
.Jaipur's History : How Did The Pink City Of India Got It's Name?
The capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur, is a city full of wonderful history and culture. Its nickname is Pink City due to the city's unique reddish brown architecture. Jaipur is known for its heritage, architecture and culture. Have you ever stopped and thought about how this city got its name? There is a fascinating story behind the birth of Jaipur. It has a legacy made by its founders, the vision of its planners, and the rich history of Rajasthan intertwined with it. Jaipur was formed in the year 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, a visionary ruler of the Kachwaha Rajput dynasty. The Kachwaha kingdom's capital Amber was an 11 kilometer fortified city located near today's Jaipur. But as the kingdom grew in size, there was a need for a more centrally located city, which led to Jai Singh II founding the new capital. Jai Singh II was not only a warrior King, but also a scholar, an urban planner, and an astronomer. He envisioned a city that encapsulated modernity, advancement in science, and architectural beauty. To make his vision a reality, he brought together scholars and architects, one of them being Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, a Shilpa Shastra expert Bengali Brahmin. Naming of the City Jaipur The city derives its name from its founder, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. 'Jaipur' directly translates to 'The City of Jai' or 'The City of Victory.' The name signifies the king's legacy and achievements as a ruler. Jai Singh II was not only known for his exceptional military skills, but also as an extraordinary strategist and as a patron of art, culture, and science. His reign was a golden era for the region which is why the city was named after him to preserve his great works. Curiously, the title 'Sawai' that was appended to Jai Singh II's name has a tale behind it too. Aurangzeb, the Mughal Emperor, conferred this title to Jai Singh II stating that he was one and a quarter which meant he was a quarter better than his peers. This title became part of the Kachwaha Dynasty and other rulers of Jaipur also had this title. The Planning and Architecture of Jaipur With a population of over 3 million people, Jaipur became the State Capital in 1949. Jaipur is a planned city laid out on a grid pattern with specific functions designated for different segments of the city. With it, Jaipur also became one of the first cities in India to implement modern planning blurring the lines between art and science. The nine blocks are subdivided into residential, commercial, and industrial zones which encompass the nine chakras of the Hindu religion. Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, and Amer Fort are just a few architectural masterpieces that ought to be enjoyed when traveling to Jaipur. These structures show off the vision Jai Singh II had. Pink sandstone was used for these and many other structures in the city, which is why Jaipur is known as the Pink City. This practice was also in place to paint the city pink in 1876 for receiving the Prince of Wales, marking the beginning of a truly breathtaking view. This city did not need a title to welcome its tourists with open arms, but it sure does with phrases like 'The magical city of Jaipur'. The Legacy of Jaipur This city tells the story of the world through its forts, palaces, and lively bazaars and for that reason it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with the millions of visitors it attracts every year. The name of this city not only tells the tale of a king setting to rule, but it also serves as a significance of pride in culture and history. The city is known for its unparalleled metropolitans due its ability to blend old traditions with modern lifestyles. The city's name also brings up a sense of pride for the people residing there. Jaipur is not merely a place on the map; it is a living testament to the courage, intelligence and foresight of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. The city hosts various festivals to honor its cultural heritage like, the Jaipur Literature Festival, and Teej. Closing Remarks The story of how Jaipur came to be called by its name is an interesting tale from the history of India, particularly the vision of its notable ruler, and his lasting legacy. The plethora of intricately designed streets and the famous pink structures are a fair reminder of how beautiful and splendid Jaipur is as a city, and how proud its citizens are. 'Jaipur' is not just the title of the city. It serves as a symbol to all the amazing things that have happened in the city, and why it still remains an important cultural as well as a historical piece of India. The next time you find yourself in the heart of Rajasthan, try to indulge yourself and learn more about the city's rich history and culture, for, as the famous saying goes, 'History has its eyes on you.'
