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Time Business News
a day ago
- Time Business News
Exploring Kolhapur: Best & Perfect Blend of Spirituality, History & Natural Beauty
Nestled in the foothills of the Sahyadri mountains, Kolhapur is a cultural treasure trove that beautifully preserves Maharashtra's royal heritage and spiritual legacy. Known as the 'City of Temples,' this vibrant destination offers an enchanting mix of ancient shrines, majestic forts, serene lakes, and architectural marvels. From the sacred Shri Mahalaxmi Temple to the tranquil waters of Rankala Lake, Kolhapur promises a memorable experience for pilgrims, history buffs, and nature lovers alike. You can read : Places to Visit in Pune The city's royal past comes alive at the magnificent New Palace and Shalini Palace, while adventure seekers can explore the historic Panhala Fort. Spiritual seekers will find solace at unique temples like Binkhambi Ganesh Mandir and the hilltop Jyotiba Temple. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the scenic Radhanagari Dam or explore the fascinating exhibits at Kaneri Museum. With its pleasant climate, delectable cuisine (especially the famous Kolhapuri spicy dishes), and warm hospitality, Kolhapur makes for an ideal year-round destination that captures the essence of Maharashtra's rich cultural tapestry. 1. Shri Mahalaxmi Temple Overview: The sacred Shri Mahalaxmi Temple, dating back to the 7th century, stands as one of India's most revered Shakti Peethas. This architectural marvel features intricate carvings and a magnificent idol of Goddess Mahalaxmi adorned with precious jewels. The temple complex exudes spiritual energy and attracts millions of devotees annually. How to Reach: Located in the heart of Kolhapur city, just 3 km from the railway station. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are easily available. Significance: Believed to be one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas where Goddess Sati's body parts fell. The temple is particularly famous for its Ashtabhuja (eight-armed) idol of Mahalaxmi. Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather; Navratri festival for special celebrations. Things to Do: Attend the morning and evening aartis, explore the temple architecture, shop for religious souvenirs in nearby markets. Travel Tips: Dress conservatively, remove footwear before entering, and avoid visiting during peak afternoon hours for a more peaceful experience. 2. Rankala Lake Overview: This picturesque natural lake, spread over 107 hectares, offers a perfect escape from city life. Surrounded by lush greenery and a charming promenade, Rankala Lake features a historic Shiva temple partially submerged in its waters, adding to its mystical charm. How to Reach: Just 3 km west of Kolhapur city center. Regular auto-rickshaws and buses ply to the location. Significance: Believed to be created by the demon Rankasura's death, the lake holds religious importance and serves as Kolhapur's favorite recreational spot. Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or evenings; monsoon season (June-September) for lush green surroundings. Things to Do: Enjoy paddle boating, take a leisurely walk along the lakefront, visit the nearby Shalini Palace, savor local snacks at food stalls. Travel Tips: Carry water and sun protection during daytime visits. The lake is beautifully illuminated in the evenings. 3. New Palace (Chhatrapati Sahu Museum) Overview: This magnificent Indo-Saracenic palace, built in 1884, showcases the grandeur of Kolhapur's royal heritage. The palace now serves as a museum displaying an impressive collection of royal artifacts, weapons, and memorabilia. How to Reach: Situated near the city center, about 2 km from Kolhapur railway station. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available. Significance: The former residence of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, it offers insights into the region's royal history and Maratha culture. Best Time to Visit: October to February when the weather is pleasant for exploring. Things to Do: Admire the palace architecture, see the stuffed tiger in the museum, visit the Durbar Hall, explore the beautiful gardens. Travel Tips: Photography may be restricted in certain areas. Allocate at least 1-2 hours for a proper visit. 4. Binkhambi Ganesh Temple Overview: This unique temple houses a rare idol of Lord Ganesha Temple without a Piller (Binkhambi), believed to be one of its kind in India. The temple's peaceful ambiance and distinctive deity make it a must-visit spiritual site. How to Reach: Located about 5 km from Kolhapur city center. Best reached by taxi or auto-rickshaw. Significance: The trunk-less Ganesha idol is considered extremely auspicious and is believed to fulfill devotees' wishes. Best Time to Visit: Ganesh Chaturthi festival for special celebrations; early mornings for fewer crowds. Things to Do: Offer prayers, meditate in the serene environment, learn about the temple's unique history from priests. Travel Tips: Combine your visit with nearby Rankala Lake as they're in proximity. Maintain silence within temple premises. 5. Bhavani Mandap Overview: This historic structure near Mahalaxmi Temple serves as an important cultural landmark. The complex features a massive stone Nandi bull statue and serves as a venue for religious and cultural events. How to Reach: Adjacent to Mahalaxmi Temple, easily accessible on foot from the main temple. Significance: Once the administrative center of the Maratha empire, it's now a hub for religious and cultural activities. Best Time to Visit: During festivals or early mornings to avoid crowds. Things to Do: Admire the impressive Nandi statue, shop for traditional Kolhapuri chappals, witness cultural programs if scheduled. Travel Tips: Bargain while shopping in nearby markets. Visit the temple first before exploring Bhavani Mandap. 6. Jyotiba Temple Overview: Perched atop a hill 18 km from Kolhapur, this important pilgrimage site is dedicated to Lord Jyotiba, a local deity revered as an incarnation of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. How to Reach: Regular buses and taxis available from Kolhapur. The final ascent involves climbing about 400 steps. Significance: One of the most important religious sites in Maharashtra, especially during the annual Jyotiba Yatra. Best Time to Visit: April-May during the festival season; early mornings for pleasant weather. Things to Do: Participate in temple rituals, enjoy panoramic views from the hilltop, visit nearby smaller shrines. Travel Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for the climb. Carry water and avoid visiting during peak afternoon heat. 7. Panhala Fort Overview: This massive 15th-century hill fort, located about 20 km from Kolhapur, offers breathtaking views and fascinating historical insights. Spread over 7 km, it's one of Maharashtra's largest forts. How to Reach: Best reached by taxi from Kolhapur. State transport buses also available. Significance: Associated with Shivaji Maharaj's famous escape from Bijapur forces. The fort played crucial role in Maratha history. Best Time to Visit: Monsoon (June-September) for lush greenery; winter months for comfortable exploration. Things to Do: Explore Sajja Kothi (where Shivaji escaped), visit Andhar Bavadi (dark well), see the Teen Darwaza, enjoy panoramic views. Travel Tips: Hire a local guide to understand the fort's history better. Wear sturdy shoes as there's considerable walking involved. 8. Radhanagari Dam Overview: Set amidst the picturesque Sahyadri ranges, this dam creates a serene reservoir surrounded by dense forests. It's part of the Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary area. How to Reach: About 50 km from Kolhapur. Best accessed by private vehicle as public transport is limited. Significance: Maharashtra's first dam, built in 1907. Offers excellent opportunities for nature photography and birdwatching. Best Time to Visit: Post-monsoon (September-November) when the surrounding waterfalls are active. Things to Do: Bird watching, nature photography, picnicking by the waterside, visit nearby Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary. Travel Tips: Carry food and water as facilities are limited. Monsoon visits offer spectacular views but check road conditions. 9. Kaneri Museum Overview: This underrated gem showcases an impressive collection of artifacts representing Kolhapur's rich cultural heritage, including traditional costumes, weaponry, and historical documents. How to Reach: Located about 10 km from city center. Taxis are the most convenient option. Significance: Offers deep insights into Kolhapur's royal past and cultural evolution. Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds; mornings for peaceful exploration. Things to Do: Admire the collection of royal artifacts, learn about Kolhapur's history, see traditional Maratha weaponry. Travel Tips: Allocate at least an hour for proper exploration. Photography may require permission. 10. Shalini Palace Overview: This beautiful palace built in 1934 showcases exquisite European architecture blended with Indian elements. Now functioning as a heritage hotel, it offers a glimpse into royal lifestyles. How to Reach: Near Rankala Lake, about 3 km from city center. Autos and taxis easily available. Significance: Named after Princess Shalini Raje, it represents the architectural grandeur of Kolhapur's royal era. Best Time to Visit: Evenings for beautiful lighting; winter months for pleasant weather in gardens. Things to Do: Enjoy high tea at the palace restaurant, stroll through manicured gardens, admire the architecture. Travel Tips: Non-guests may need permission to enter certain areas. The restaurant serves excellent local cuisine. Essential Travel Tips for Kolhapur Best Time to Visit: October to March offers the most pleasant weather October to March offers the most pleasant weather Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws are most convenient for city travel; hire taxis for outstation visits Auto-rickshaws are most convenient for city travel; hire taxis for outstation visits Must-Try Food: Kolhapuri Misal, Tambda Rassa (red curry), Pandhra Rassa (white curry), and Kolhapuri Bhadang Kolhapuri Misal, Tambda Rassa (red curry), Pandhra Rassa (white curry), and Kolhapuri Bhadang Shopping: Famous for Kolhapuri chappals, handcrafted jewelry, and traditional spices Famous for Kolhapuri chappals, handcrafted jewelry, and traditional spices Cultural Note: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites Dress modestly when visiting religious sites Language: Marathi is primary language, but Hindi and English are understood in tourist areas Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Q1. What makes Kolhapur a unique tourist destination? A: Kolhapur offers a perfect blend of spiritual sites (like Mahalaxmi Temple), historical landmarks (Panhala Fort), and natural beauty (Rankala Lake), along with unique cultural experiences and world-famous spicy cuisine. Q2. How many days are sufficient to explore Kolhapur? A: 2-3 days are ideal to cover major attractions, with an additional day if planning to visit nearby places like Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary. Q3. Is Kolhapur safe for solo female travelers? A: Yes, Kolhapur is generally safe, but standard precautions like avoiding isolated areas at night are recommended. Q4. What's special about Kolhapuri cuisine? A: Known for its bold flavors and spiciness, especially the mutton dishes like Tambda Rassa and Sukka Mutton. Vegetarians must try the Misal Pav. Q5. Are there good accommodation options in Kolhapur? A: Yes, ranging from budget lodges to heritage properties like Shalini Palace, with many options near the city center. Q6. What's the best way to travel between attractions in Kolhapur? A: Auto-rickshaws are convenient for city travel, while taxis are better for outstation visits like Panhala Fort or Jyotiba Temple. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
USA Today
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- USA Today
'I can't believe it': Grandson surprises grandmother with AI video of her late husband
An Argentinian grandmother was moved to tears this month when her grandson surprised her with an AI-generated video of her husband who died over 30 years ago. The woman, Sati, grinned as a once-still image of her husband, Jose, moved about, smiling back at her. Her grandson, Martin Garchtrom, made the video and shared it with his followers on TikTok in early July. 'Is that Pepe?' Sati, 100, asked in the video, referring to him using a Spanish nickname, Storyful shared. At one point, Sati cradled her face in her hands, overjoyed at what her grandson had created, before leaning back in for another look at her husband. Watch the heartwarming moment Grandmother is still 'in love like the first day' despite husband passing away over three decades ago Sati's husband Jose passed away more than 30 years ago, according to Storyful. She talks to her grandson often, and one common topic of discussion is the man she married all those years ago, Garchtrom said. 'My grandmother Sati always talks about my grandfather Jose,' Garchtrom said. 'She is in love like the first day.' Her grandson is a UX designer and musician, and he loves showing his grandmother new technology, like artificial intelligence (AI), he told Storyful. Pairing technology with her love for her late husband was a given. He remembered a photo of Jose that sits on a small table in her living room. He then explained to her how they could take the image and make something new. 'First, I told her, 'I'm going to take a picture of him with my cell phone,'' he explained to his grandmother. 'Then I said, 'I'm going to transfer this photo to the computer and we're going to make it come to life.'' As he played the video for her on July 7, he asked her if she understood what was happening. 'Oh my God,' she said in the video. 'I love you, Jose. We loved each other. I can't believe it.' Bringing deceased loved ones back to life using AI TikTok users aren't the only ones using AI to revisit coveted moments with loved ones. Alexis Ohanian, entrepreneur and co-founder of Reddit, shared a video of himself as a child with his late mother on X in June. In the AI-generated video, he and his mother hug and she looks at him before embracing again and rocking side-to-side. 'I wasn't ready for how this would feel,' he wrote. 'We didn't have a camcorder, so there's no video of me with my mom. I dropped one of my favorite photos of us in midjourney as 'starting frame for an AI video' and wow... This is how she hugged me. I've rewatched it 50 times.' Ohanian's post spurred discussion, with some X users warning him against using AI to recreate moments like this, arguing that AI gives users false memories. Ohanian replied to X users adding that his mom died almost 20 years ago, so he has 'grieved sufficiently.' He added that his family couldn't afford a camcorder back then. In his eyes, using AI to make an animated video is similar to using AI to stabilize or fill in the gaps of old or poorly-recorded videos. 'It's not a replacement for a loved one nor should it be,' he wrote. Saleen Martin is a reporter on USA TODAY's NOW team. She is from Norfolk, Virginia – the 757. Email her at sdmartin@
New Indian Express
16-07-2025
- Politics
- New Indian Express
Gita, Ramayana in school curriculum sparks constitutional debate in Uttarakhand
DEHRADUN: Rooted in Sanatan Dharma's belief that the Srimad Bhagavad Gita serves as a profound guide for life's conduct, the Uttarakhand government, under Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami's directives, has incorporated the Gita and Ramayana into the state curriculum framework. However, this move, implemented from Wednesday, has allegedly met with immediate and widespread opposition from the state's teaching community. The protesting teacher associations assert that these are religious texts, and as per the Constitution, religious education cannot be imparted in educational institutions. Sanjay Kumar Tamta, President of the Teacher Association, articulated their stance to this newspaper, stating, 'Article 28(1) of the Indian Constitution explicitly states that religious instruction shall not be provided in any educational institution wholly maintained out of State funds or receiving aid from State funds. This provision is designed to uphold the nation's secular fabric and ensure equal respect for all religions.' He further argued, 'The directive to incorporate Gita shlokas into prayer assemblies violates the constitutional framework, thereby undermining the principle of secular education in government schools. These schools serve students from diverse religious, caste, and community backgrounds. Mandating the recitation of verses from a single religious text can foster feelings of discomfort and discrimination among adherents of other faiths and communities, which runs contrary to the objectives of social harmony and inclusive education.' Mr Tamta articulately presented these points. Countering this perspective, Dr Mukul Kumar Sati, the Director of Education, informed this newspaper about the instructions given to all Chief Education Officers: 'Students are to recite at least one shloka with its meaning daily during prayer assemblies. Additionally, one value-based shloka is to be declared the 'Shloka of the Week' and displayed on the notice board with its meaning. Students will practise it, and a discussion will be held, and feedback collected on the last day of the week.' Dr Sati further elaborated on the intent, stating that teachers should periodically explain the shlokas and inform students how the principles of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita foster values, improve behaviour, develop leadership skills, enhance decision-making abilities, promote emotional balance, and cultivate scientific thinking. 'Students should also be apprised that the teachings in the Srimad Bhagavad Gita are rooted in Sankhya philosophy, psychology, logic, behavioural science, and moral philosophy, making them universally beneficial for humanity from a secular viewpoint,' asserted Director Dr Sati.
Time of India
15-07-2025
- General
- Time of India
U'khand schools start daily Gita lessons in morning assemblies
Dehradun: Govt schools across Uttarakhand began teaching Bhagwad Gita shlokas during morning assemblies from Tuesday under the National Education Policy 2020, following a review meeting in May that cleared the proposal to "familiarise students with Indian culture and knowledge traditions". Officials from the state education department said the practice aims to take learning beyond the classroom. "NEP clearly states that students must be introduced to Indian culture, heritage, knowledge systems, and traditional learnings. The teachings must go beyond the curriculum. The CM also directed that these ancient teachings be incorporated into our schooling system. In line with that, shlokas from the Bhagwad Gita have now been introduced in the morning assemblies in our schools. A few lessons will be shared daily," Dr Mukul Kumar Sati, director, secondary education, said. While Sati said Uttarakhand is the first state to implement this on-ground, some BJP-ruled states have made similar announcements. Gujarat introduced Bhagwad Gita classes from Classes VI to XII in 2022, incorporating shlokas in prayers and chapters into textbooks. Karnataka also announced plans to add Gita teachings under moral science after expert consultations during the 2022-23 academic session. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Providers are furious: Internet access without a subscription! Techno Mag Learn More Undo Himachal Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh followed suit, announcing they will introduce it for higher classes. Sati said the initiative will gradually be expanded to the curriculum, with new textbooks being introduced this session. Education minister Dhan Singh Rawat also supported integrating traditional Indian knowledge systems into formal education. "The Indian knowledge system is one of the oldest in the world. It will help with the moral, spiritual, and physical development of students and discipline them while creating scientific curiosity as well," he said. In instructions sent to chief education officers across Uttarakhand, Sati said that Gita should be seen not just as a religious text, but as a reflection of human values and scientific reasoning. "These teachings can be a stepping stone to students becoming great citizens. In every assembly, one shloka with its meaning should be taught along with its scientific viewpoint." He added, "There should be a 'weekly shloka' that should be discussed at the end of the week. The significance of these teachings in day-to-day life should also be taught to the students. At every step, we must ensure the character development, self-control, and scientific mindset of our students with these teachings," the order read.
Time of India
03-07-2025
- Time of India
Rain fury: Landslides block over 100 roads in U'khand, Kedar yatra halted
1 2 3 4 5 6 Dehradun/Bageshwar: Landslides triggered by heavy and continuous rainfall across Uttarakhand have blocked roads at several places, disrupting normal life and severely affecting the Char Dham yatra. As per data from the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC), 113 roads, including two national highways, were blocked on Thursday. Chamoli district reported the highest number of road blockades at 23, followed by Pithoragarh with 22. The Kedarnath yatra was temporarily halted on Thursday morning after a landslide struck the crucial Sonprayag–Gaurikund route near Mankutia around 10 pm the previous night, stranding over 40 pilgrims returning from the shrine. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) evacuated the pilgrims by opening a temporary passage through the debris. Officials said the damaged stretch was not fit for movement of vehicles, prompting the authorities to divert incoming pilgrims to safer locations. Road restoration efforts are underway and by Thursday noon, pedestrian movement was partially restored. "The Munkatiya Sliding Zone and the small parking area near Gaurikund are now open for pedestrian use," said a district police officer. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Tinnitus: what this grandson discovered will surprise you Hearing Magazine Undo Officials, however, cautioned that with more rainfall expected, the route remains hazardous and advised travellers to proceed with extreme caution. The regional meteorological centre reported moderate to heavy rainfall at several places across the state over the past 24 hours, keeping disaster response teams on alert. The monsoon has also adversely impacted pilgrim footfall. While the Char Dham yatra witnessed a daily footfall of over 50,000 devotees just a few weeks ago, the numbers have now sharply declined to around 14,000 to 15,000 per day. Kedarnath alone, which was recording over 20,000 visitors daily, saw the number drop to just over 4,000 in recent days. Since the start of this year's yatra on April 30 and till July 2, a total of 37.5 lakh pilgrims have visited the four shrines. On July 1, a total of 17,000 pilgrims visited the Char Dham shrines, with 7,391 at Kedarnath and 5,275 at Badrinath. Brijesh Sati, general secretary of Uttarakhand Char Dham Teerth Purohit Mahapanchayat, said, "The arrival of the monsoon and the opening of schools are the two major reasons behind the decline in numbers." Sati also cited weather-related damage to yatra routes as another key factor. "The yatra will again gain pace after Sept 15, and the chopper services will also resume around that time," he added. Meanwhile, in Bageshwar, over 300 families remain at risk due to unstable terrain, especially in Kapkot tehsil, where villagers are demanding that they be evacuated. Diwan Singh, a resident of Kharbagad village, said, "The hill above is collapsing, and the river below is eroding the land. Our village now under the shadow of disaster. We have already suffered significant damage in the recent rains and are left with nowhere to go. " Harish Aithani, a local leader, said, "The terrain in this area is unstable. Most houses are now in the high-risk zone. The administration needs to take this seriously before it's too late." Kapkot SDM Anil Singh Rawat acknowledged the vulnerability of the region. "While the situation is currently under control, this entire region is geologically sensitive. The exact condition of Kharbagad will be known only after a detailed geoscientific study, to be conducted soon." As per the Bageshwar District Disaster Management Plan 2024–25, a total of 357 families from 25 villages are marked for relocation—116 of these fall under the "extremely sensitive" category. District disaster management officer Shikha Suyal said relocation efforts have begun at the tehsil level. "Currently, two families from Shama and three from Kathani are in the initial stages of the relocation process," she said. Environmental activist Ramesh Krishak criticised the slow pace of intervention by the authorities. "Many affected families are still wandering from office to office for help. If your idea of development involves tearing down the mountains instead of preserving them, how can you protect the people who live here?" he asked.
