Vaishuarticles

Bhagwati Asthan, Samastipur, Bihar

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 10:20:00 +0000

Image Credit - Google

Bhagwati Asthan is the most famous temple in Samastipur, Bihar. It is the temple of Devi Durga and is known as Manokamna Sidhi Asthan. It is the most ancient and lively Devi Durga temple in Manipur, Samastipur.

History of the temple

It has been established in the year of 1934 AD and reconstructed in 2016. It falls under the Warisnagar block in Shekhopur village. People believe that for those who come here and bow down their heads at this temple, their wishes are fulfilled by Devi Durga.

A huge fair is held here in Durga Puja.

Attraction of this temple

A huge 51 feet Panchmukhi Lord Hanuman idol is situated here which is the main attraction center for the tourists.

Image credit - Google

Don't forget to see the pictures of this temple on Google. For more information visit my blog.

Top 5 Amazing Places To Visit In March In India 2022

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 10 Mar 2022 12:57:00 +0000

5 Amazing and Best Places in India to Visit in March to Spend Coolest Time with Family

Spending quality time with family is the best ever moment in the world. It is the world's best gift from God. A family vacation comes once a year with happiness and joy but this happiness gets doubled to visit new and amazing places.

In today's era, everybody is going through a hectic life, and to get free and relaxed from office workloads they make a plan to visit on a trip to spend the coolest time with family.

I think for going on vacations with family to different and beautiful places in the country March is the perfect month.

Here are the top 5 beautiful, best, and amazing places in India to visit with family and friends on vacation to stay calm and feel the relaxation for every minute.

Top 5 best and beautiful places in India

Almora
Rameshwaram
Vrindavan
Havelock Island
Tirupati

Almora, Uttarakhand

Almora is a district in Uttarakhand state, India. It was founded by King Kalyan Chand in 1568. It is surrounded by its natural beauty and flora and fauna. Its beautiful landscape is so much admiring and pleasant. You can't stop yourself to see it.

Over the years, this city has booked its name in the most visited tourist place in India.

Visitor Attractions

Chitai Temple, Zero Point, Kasar Devi Temple, Jageshwar Katarmal Sun Temple, Bright End Corner.

Things to Do in Almora

Go on Laal Bazaar Shopping Centre for woolen garments, decorative items, and metal utensils, Spent time at Govind Vallabh Pant Museum, and visit with the family at Deer Park.

Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu

It is the holiest place for Hindus in Tamil Nadu. It is situated on a serene island and separated from Sri Lanka by a small channel of Pamban Island. According to Hindu Mythology, it is believed that Lord Rama has built a bridge to reach Lanka to rescue his wife Sita from the demon king Ravana.

Visitor Attractions

Pamban Bridge, Agnitheertham, Rameshwaram Temple, Five-faced Hanuman Temple, and Kalam National Memorial.

Things to Do in Rameshwaram

Go for shopping to purchase traditional silk sarees and visit the sea world Aquarium.

Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh

Vrindavan is the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage in India. It is located in the district of Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, and on the bank of the holy river Yamuna. Vrindavan is known to be one of the oldest cities in India.

According to Hindu Mythology, Lord Krishna has spent his childhood days here. This city holds many temples dedicated to the worship of Radha and Krishna. As we all know how Radha and her friends (Gopis) play Holi with Krishna and this is an important reason that people come to Vrindavan in March to be part of this festival (Holi Celebration).

An Interesting Fact About This Place

Vrindavan is known to be the"City of Widows". A large number of widows move here after losing their husbands due to this reason it is known to be the "city of widows". The Widows come from the northeast part of the country (West Bengal, Odisha, and Assam). There are an estimated 15000 to 25000 widows. These women spend their time singing bhajans at bhajanashrams.

"Guild of Service" organisation was formed to help these deprived women and children. A survey is prepared by the government that several homes are run by the government and different NGOs for widows.

Visitor Attractions

ISKCON Temple, Madan Mohan Temple, Bankey Bihari Temple, Jaipur Temple, Nidhivan Temple, Prem Mandir, Katyayani and Kesi Ghat, and Rangaji Temple

Things to Do in Vrindavan

People can play Holi with locals, enjoy the sweets offered at this festival, and go to local bazaars for shopping.

Havelock Island (Swaraj Deep), Andamans

Swaraj Island, previously known to be Havelock Island is the largest island in Ritchie's Archipelago.

Havelock Island is one of the most beautiful and largest parts of a group of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It lies in the east of the Great Andaman within the Andaman Islands.

Havelock Island is named after a British General, Sir Henry Havelock, who served in India. It was renamed Swaraj Island by our Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a tribute to Subhash Chandra Bose in December 2018.

This Island is popular for its crystal blue waters and sandy beaches among national and international tourists. When you plan to visit Swaraj Island, you must have to try all kinds of adventure activities, like scuba diving.

Visitor Attractions

Bharatpur Beach, Laxmanpur Beach, Sitapur Beach, Vijaynagar Beach, and Elephant Beach.

Things to do in Havelock Island

Spend the coolest time trekking and snorkeling with family at Elephant Beach, immerse yourself in scuba diving in open water.

Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh

Tirupati is a city in the Chittoor district of the state of Andhra Pradesh. It is located 415 km southwest of Amaravati (Capital of Andhra Pradesh)

It is famous for being the most spiritual Hindu Shrine of Tirumala Venkateshwara Temple and other historic temples built on one of the seven peaks of Tirumala Hills. Before visiting this holy place, you must have to book your tickets in advance as Tirupati is always crowded with people.

Visitor Attractions

ISKCON Temple, Swami Pushkarini Lake, Sri Kalahasti Temple, Sri Venkateshwara Temple, and Akasganga Teertham.

Things to do in Tirupati

Adore the beauty of Talakona Waterfalls and explore Rock Garden.

Photo Credit - www.fabhotels.com

Best Tourist Places in India

top 10 tourist places in India

most visited country in the world

top 10 places to visit in the world

top 10 tourist attractions in the world

top 10 countries to visit

top 10 tourist destinations in the world

most tourist countries in the world

best tourist country in world

top 10 most visited countries in the world

top 10 tourist countries in the world

top ten places to visit in the world

top 10 tourist destinations in the world 2019

top 10 tourist attractions in the world 2020

top 10 most visited cities in the world

top 10 most visited countries

10 best places to visit in the world

Best honeymoon places in India

best honeymoon places in India

honeymoon destinations in India

best honeymoon destinations in India

top 10 honeymoon places in India

top 5 best places for honeymoon in India

honeymoon destinations outside India

honeymoon places in Tamil Nadu

cheap honeymoon destinations outside India

romantic places in India

honeymoon places out of India

honeymoon places in India in December

best honeymoon places in Kerala

top 5 places for honeymoon in India

best places to visit in India for honeymoon

honeymoon places in South India

cheap honeymoon destinations in India

best honeymoon packages in India

best honeymoon places in India in December

best honeymoon places in Tamil Nadu

Best Celebrity Biographies

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 09 Mar 2022 07:25:00 +0000

Best Celebrity Biographies

Madhubala: Biography, Some Shocking and Interesting Facts

Madhubala was born in Delhi, British India, on February 14, 1933. She was an Indian actress best known for her roles in Hindi and Malayalam films. Begum Mumtaz Jehan Dehlavi is her birth name. She was given the nickname "Venus Queen"....... Read more

Image Credit - Wikimedia Commons

Dilip Kumar: Biography

Mohammed Yusuf Khan, well known by his stage name Dilip Kumar, was an Indian actor and film producer (11 December 1922 - 7 July 2021), who worked in Hindi cinema....... Read more

Biography: Priyanka Chopra

The Global Icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas is an Indian actress and former Miss World who was born on 18 July 1982, in the city of Jamshedpur, in the state of Bihar now (Jharkhand)....... Read more

Image Credit - Bollywood Hungama

best celebrity autobiographies
best celebrity biographies
top celebrity autobiographies
best celebrity autobiographies 2021
best celebrity biography books
the best celebrity autobiographies
top celebrity biography books
best celebrity biographies of all time
popular celebrity autobiographies
popular celebrity biographies
best biographies of celebrities
best celebrity autobiographies of all time
top 10 celebrity autobiographies
best biographies of famous people
great celebrity biographies
top ten celebrity autobiographies

A Boys School where you can hear the loud sound of footsteps of ghosts.

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 09 Mar 2022 06:54:00 +0000

Top 10 Haunted Places In India

Bhangarh Fort, Rajasthan
Kuldhara Village, Rajasthan
Dow Hill, Kurseong, West Bengal
Dumas Beach, Gujarat
Jatinga, Assam
Lambi Dehar Mines
Agrasen ki Baoli, New Delhi
Ramoji Film City
D’Souza Chawl, Mumbai
Bombay High Court

A Boys School where you can hear the loud sound of footsteps of ghosts.

Jinxed School near the forest, Photo Credit - Youtube

The 100-year-old Victoria Boys High School is pervaded by the dark vibes of the haunted woodland. In the woods of Dow Hill, where innumerable unexplained deaths appear to have occurred in the past. Neighbors have heard loud whisperings of footsteps when the school is closed for the winter vacations from December to March.

So, if you want to see the majesty of one of India's most haunted locations, learn about the evil side of Kurseong and avoid the forbidden zones after dark.

To Know more about horror stuff stories related to Bollywood then read this blog.

Haunted Places In India With Their Bollywood Stories

top 10 destinations in India
top 10 destinations in India for honeymoon
top 10 destinations in India in December
top 10 places to visit in India
top 10 places to visit in India for a honeymoon
top 10 places to visit in India with friends
top 10 places to visit in Indiana
top 10 places to visit in India with family
top 10 places to visit in India hill stations
top 10 places to visit in India for couples
top 10 places in India
top 10 honeymoon places in India
top 10 tourist places in India
top 10 places to visit in India
top 10 tourist destinations in India
top 10 travel destinations in India
top 10 solo travel destinations in India
top 10 foreign tourist destinations in India
top 10 cheapest tourist destinations in India
top 10 destinations to visit in India
top 10 adventure tourism destinations in India
top 10 places in India to visit with friends
top 10 tourist destinations in south India
top 10 destinations in south India
top 10 places to visit in summer India
top 10 honeymoon destinations in south India
top 10 adventure destinations in south india
top 10 places to visit in India in September
top 10 places to visit in India during summer
top 10 rainiest places in India
top 10 romantic places in India
top 10 religious places in India

The Most Haunted Hill Stations In India Which Can Chill Your Bones

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 01 Mar 2022 01:37:00 +0000

As we all know Hill stations are the most beautiful places in the world. In today's era, every person is going through a hectic life, some have office workloads and some are getting bothered with their family problems. To get rid of these mental pressures, they go to the hill stations to find their mental peace.

As hill stations are soothing and calm this is the reason people choose such types of places to get mental peace with their family.

Photo Credit - Curlytales

But do you know about those hill stations which are haunted and terrible? You must have seen in horror movies how a family goes to the hill station and gets trapped in that haunted house. There are so many interesting and mysterious stories behind such haunted hill stations.

Now let's talk about some mysterious and the most haunted hill stations in India which will thrill your bones.

Some Interesting Horror stories Of Hill Station

Dow Hill Of Kurseong, Darjeeling

The Cursed Forest

The Spirit Of A Headless Boy

A Boys School where you can hear the loud sound of footsteps of ghosts

Dow Hill Of Kurseong, Darjeeling

Darjeeling, in West Bengal, is one of the most popular mountain tourist destinations in India, with visitors coming here to see the massive Kanchenjunga, the world's third tallest peak range.

It is also one of the most mysterious places in India.

Dow Hill of Kurseong, around thirty kilometers from Darjeeling, India's most haunted hill station, with no shortage of paranormal happenings and stories. Kurseong may be a little hill station famous for its beautiful panoramas, orchidaceous plant gardens, wooded hills, and tea plantations, similar as a death road, a headless ghost, a haunted college, and a number of other true ghost stories. Here we have a tendency to inform you a couple of places in the Asian nation wherever scary creatures are additional bumper than in different elements of the country.

Dow Hill is both lovely and frightening. No matter what time of day it is, paranormal activity never ceases here. Tourists that come to the area feast their eyes on the natural beauty of the place and their ears on the ghostly stories that abound here.

The Spirit Of A Headless Boy

Hey Guys, Have you ever think what would happen suddenly if you see the ghost of "Headless Boy". Of course, you would get frightened and start shivering.

If I say that this is a real horror story of a place where you can't even go after 4' o clock in the evening.

Let's have a look

Image Credit - masalabuzz.com

The 'death road,' which connects Dow Hill Road and the Forest Office, is not for the faint-hearted. Local woodcutters have been terrified by the appearance of a headless ghost of a small child wandering and disappearing into the forest. People have reported being followed and monitored by an unidentified creature. Some claim to have seen a crimson eye staring back at them. There's even a phantasm of a grey-haired woman. The air in these woodlands is so terrible that unlucky visitors have gone insane or committed themselves.

A Boys School where you can hear the loud sound of footsteps of ghosts.

Jinxed School near the forest, Photo Credit - Youtube

In the woods of Dow Hill, where innumerable unexplained deaths appear to have occurred in the past, the 100-year-old Victoria Boys High School is pervaded by the dark vibes of the haunted woodland. Neighbors have heard loud whisperings of footsteps when the school is closed for the winter vacations from December to March.

So, if you want to see the majesty of one of India's most haunted locations, learn about the evil side of Kurseong and avoid the forbidden zones after dark.

To Know more about horror stuff stories related to Bollywood then read this blog.

Haunted Places In India With Their Bollywood Stories

Madhubala: Biography, Some Shocking and Interesting Facts

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 16 Oct 2021 00:19:00 +0000

Image Credit - Wikimedia Commons

Madhubala was probably the most beautiful actress to ever grace the screen; she ascended from humble beginnings to become the most captivating star Hindi film has ever produced. Madhubala made her film debut at the tender age of eight. She worked as a child artist for five years before landing her first lead role at the age of 14 in Kidar Sharma's film Neel Kamal in 1947, in which she played a romantic lead opposite Raj Kapoor, a rising star. Madhubala proclaimed her arrival on the silver screen through this film. She developed into a genuinely euphoric beauty during the next few years, and with the release of the film Mahal in 1949, she became an overnight sensation.

During the 1950s, she was marked by moments of great prowess - films like Tarana, Mr. & Mrs. '55, and, of course, Mughal-E-Azam, which highlighted her exceptional talents as a serious artist across genres and exhibited what this gorgeous beauty was truly gifted of. However, many people thought her beauty overpowered her acting abilities at times. Her beauty drew the attention of a number of Hollywood filmmakers, and she was one of the first Indian actresses to be featured in the prestigious journal Theatre Arts.

In the year 1952, she was the subject of a full feature in the magazine titled "The Biggest Star in the World - and she's Not in Beverly Hills." Frank Capra, a well-known American director, even offered her a role in Hollywood. Her father, who was in charge of her work, turned down the offer. She appeared alongside all of Bollywood's legends at the time. She was so popular at the time that she even overshadowed her male co-stars in several films. She appeared in nearly 70 films in total and is a name that will be remembered for a long time.

Family, Relatives & Other Relations

Madhubala was born to a Muslim family as Mumtaz Begum Jehan Dehlavi. Her father's name was Attaullah Khan who lost his job at the Imperial Tobacco Company in Peshawar and her mother's name was Begum Ayeesha. She had ten siblings, including Chanchal, an actress, and Madhur Bhushan, a playback singer. Pradeep Kumar, Bharat Bhushan, and Kishore Kumar all proposed to her for marriage. In 1960, she married Kishore Kumar, who converted to Islam only for the purpose of marrying her. She died in 1969, after nine years of marriage.

Personal Difficulties & Health Deterioration

Madhubala passed away on February 23, 1969, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, at the age of 36. Unfortunately, she was plagued by a persistent heart illness that kept her confined to a bed for nearly nine excruciating years until taking her life on February 23, 1969, just nine days after she turned 36. She appeared in almost 70 films during her brief life and is now regarded as one of Indian cinema's most coveted icons.

Some Shocking & Interesting Facts About Madhubala

During the 1950s, her relationship with great actor Dilip Kumar was highly well-known.

On the set of the film Tarana in 1951, she sent Dilip Kumar a love letter in Urdu along with a rose.

Director K. Asif asked her assistant to take her father out and play rummy with him till the scenes were shot because her father objected to her conducting personal scenes.

Her film Hanste Aansoo, released in 1950, was the first Hindi film to receive an "A" certification from the Central Board of Film Certification, indicating that it was intended for adults only.

After 35 years, a digitally colourized version of her most renowned film, Mughal-e-Azam, was released.

Madame Tussauds, a wax museum, dedicated a statue of Anarkali (Madhubala's famed courtesan) on August 10, 2017.

The New York Times issued a belated obituary for her in 2018.

Google honored her with a doodle on her 86th birthday, February 14, 2019.

Source - www.celebrityborn.com

Rabindranath Tagore: Biography, Poems, Books, Awards and Quotes

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 11 Oct 2021 11:25:00 +0000

Rabindranath Tagore (May 7, 1861, Calcutta [now Kolkata], India—August 7, 1941, Calcutta), Bengali poet, short-story writer, song composer, playwright, essayist, and painter who liberated Bengali literature from traditional models based on classical Sanskrit by introducing new prose and verse forms and the use of colloquial language. He was awarded the Noble Prize for his poetry collection "Gitanjali" in 1913.

Image Credit - Wikimedia commons

Rabindranath Tagore (1861-1941) was the son of Debendranath Tagore, a leader of the Brahmo Samaj and also a religious reformer. He was born in Calcutta. Tagore began writing poetry at a young age. After finishing his studies in England in the late 1870s, he returned to India and began publishing poetry volumes in the 1880s. Tagore established an experimental school in Shantiniketan in 1901, with the goal of combining the best of Indian and Western traditions. Tagore traveled widely throughout Europe, the Americas, and East Asia, lecturing and reading his poems, and becoming a champion for Indian independence from British colonial control.

Life & Works

Both Indian and Western learning traditions are strongly embedded in Rabindranath Tagore's writing. It comprises descriptions of ordinary people's lives, literary criticism, philosophy, and social issues, in addition to fiction in the form of poetry, songs, stories, and tragedies. Rabindranath Tagore wrote in Bengali at first, but after recasting his poetry in English, he was able to reach a wider audience in the West. His poetry was thought to depict the tranquility of the soul in connection with nature, in contrast to the frantic existence in the West.

In the 1880s, he wrote several collections of poetry and completed Manasi (1890), a collection that marked the maturation of his creativity. It includes some of his most well-known poems, many of which are in new verse forms for Bengali, as well as social and political satire directed at his fellow Bengalis.

Tagore moved to East Bengal (now Bangladesh) in 1891 for ten years to maintain his family's lands at Shilaidah and Shazadpur. He frequently resided in a houseboat on the Padma River (the Ganges River's main channel), where he came into close touch with local people, and his sympathy for them became the central theme of much of his later writing. Most of his best short stories, which focus on "humble lives and their tiny tragedies," were written in the 1890s and have a sense of sadness and mild sarcasm that is unique to him (though admirably captured by the director Satyajit Ray in later film adaptations).

Tagore grew to like the Bengali countryside, particularly the Padma River, which appears in many of his poems. During this time, he released several poetry collections and plays, including Sonar Tari (1894; The Golden Boat) and Chitrangada (1892; Chitra). Tagore's poems are nearly impossible to translate, as are his over 2,000 songs, which have a wide appeal among Bengalis of all social groups.

Years of grief following the loss of his wife and two children between 1902 and 1907 are mirrored in his later poetry, which was first published in Gitanjali (Song Offerings) (1912). W.B. Yeats and André Gide praised this work, which contained Tagore's English prose translations of religious poems from several of his Bengali lyric collections, notably Gitanjali (1910), He was a key figure in conveying Indian culture to the West and vice versa, and he is widely recognized as India's most creative artist of the early twentieth century. He was the first non-European to win the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1913. In 1915, Tagore was knighted, but he renounced it in 1919 in protest of the Amritsar (Jallianwalla Bagh) Massacre.

Tagore spent significant amounts of time outside of India beginning in 1912, speaking and reading from his work in Europe, the Americas, and East Asia, and becoming an impassioned advocate for Indian freedom. Tagore's Bengali novels, Gora (1910) and Ghare-Baire (1916), are less well-known than his poems and short tales; they are translated into English as Gora and The Home and the World, respectively. Tagore began painting in his 60s, when he was in his late twenties, and produced works that earned him a place among India's best contemporary artists.

Here are some motivational quotes from Rabindranath Tagore.

"You can't cross the sea merely by standing and staring at the water."

"The butterfly counts not months but moments, and has time enough."

"If you shut the door to all errors, the truth will be shut out."

"Let me not pray to be sheltered from dangers, but to be fearless in facing them."

"If you cry because the sun has gone out of your life, your tears will prevent you from seeing the stars."

Amarnath Yatra : Mythology, Route, and Things To Know

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 07 Oct 2021 10:55:00 +0000

Every year, lakhs of pilgrims flock to the Amarnath yatra during the Shravani Mela in July-August (Shravan month in Hindu calendar), which is the only period the Amarnath Cave is open to the public.

Image Credit - Hardik Buddhabhatti (Wikipedia.org)

This year, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Amarnath Yatra 2021 has been canceled. Devotees can, however, virtually attend the morning and evening aarti on the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board website. The 56-day Amarnath Yatra is scheduled to begin on June 28, 2021, and end on August 22, 2021.

Amarnath Cave Temple

Image Credit - Wikimedia Commons

Amarnath Ji, or Amarnath Temple, is a holy site located around 29 kilometres from Pahalgam at an elevation of 3,888 metres. A Shiva Lingam (a phallus-shaped creation formed of ice) is located inside the cave and is revered by Hindus all over the world. The pilgrimage trek known as Amarnath Yatra, which begins at Chandanwari, attracts a significant number of devotees from June to August. It is considered one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas, or Hinduism's holiest temples. Aside from seeking blessings at the Amarnath Temple, the surrounding views are breathtaking.

Mythology Of Amarnath Cave

Image Credit - www.tourmyindia.com

Lord Shiva is said to have imparted the meaning of life and eternity to his consort and wife, Goddess Parvati, at the site where the Amarnath Cave now exists. According to history, Bhrigu Muni, a well-known Hindu guru, was the first to locate this sacred location. The entire Kashmir Valley was drowned at the time, and Kashyap Muni, another mighty sage, used his supernatural powers to drain the waters. Bhrigu Muni was the first person to find the Shiva Lingam after the seas receded.

How To Reach Amarnath Cave?

There are two routes to reach Amarnath Cave, first via Baltal and second via Pahalgam.

The Northern path is 14 kilometres long and is the shorter of the two. It is tough to climb because it is steep. It all begins at Baltal. Srinagar is on the longer, easier, and more conventional route.

On foot, pilgrims begin the Amarnath Yatra in Srinagar or Pahalgam and follow one of two routes. The 14-kilometer round-trip journey via Baltal, Domial, Barari, and Sangam is shorter but steeper and may be completed in 1-2 days. However, due to safety concerns, horses are not permitted on this path. It is either necessary to walk or to be carried on 'Dandies' (carried on a seat atop the shoulders of other people). This Amarnath Yatra route is preferred for returning from the shrine rather than ascending, as the high slope is reported to create major health issues among unacclimatized tourists.

The longer Amarnath Yatra route via Pahalgam is favoured by the majority of pilgrims. The pilgrim's devotion determines the length of the trip, which ranges from 36 to 48 kilometres. The journey takes about 3-5 days one way. The Amarnath trail is significantly larger and slopes more gradually than the Baltal hike.

Reach By Helicopter

Amarnath Temple can also be reached by helicopter. Drive up to Baltal after landing in Srinagar and board the helicopter that will take you up to Panchtarni. You can either trek for around 6 kilometres from Panchtarni or book a palki/horse ride.

Things To Know

Before embarking on the Amarnath Yatra, you must first complete an online registration form.

You must complete an application form, which may be accessed online, in which you must include information such as your full name, gender, residence, state, and phone number.

All bank branches will begin the registration process.

Bring plenty of toilet paper and soap napkins.

Always remember to bring two pairs of shoes and plenty of socks.

Carry enough chocolates, apples, dry fruits, and cheese cubes to stay energetic.

Remember to carry antihistamines, pain relievers, and crocin, among other medications.

Make sure you have enough warm clothing with you.

You'll also need to purchase pre-activated SIM cards in Baltal & Nunwan's base camp.

Perform physical workouts before embarking on the Amarnath Yatra to improve your physical fitness.

The Amarnath Yatra is not open to anyone under the age of 13 or anyone above the age of 75.

Source - Aaj Tak

Vaishno Devi Yatra 2021 - Before going on Vaishno Devi Yatra, know these rules, if you ignore them, you will not be able to undertake the darshan.

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 05 Oct 2021 10:56:00 +0000

You have heard several times this chant " Chalo bulawa aaya hai, mata ne bulaya hai". People use to chant this when they visit the Vaishno Devi Pilgrimage. This chant of devotion gives them positive energy. According to common belief, you would be able to make the difficult travel to the sacred temple only after hearing Mata Vaishno Devi's call.

Image Credit - www.aajtak.in

The famous Vaishno Devi Mandir is located in Vaishno Devi, a religious town. Vaishno Devi is a manifestation of the Hindu Goddess Durga. She is also known as Mata Rani, Vaishnavi, and Trikuta. This renowned shrine, which is located in the Trikuta hills, 13 kilometres from Katra (in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir), attracts millions of worshippers from all over the world. Goddesses are said to arrive at the Holy cave during the pooja and aarti to pay their respects to Mata Rani. Devotees say that the goddess herself summons them to this location.

Image Credit - www.maavaishnodevi.org

ArdhKuwari Cave

Ardhkuwari Temple is halfway between Vaishno Devi Shrine. The Ardh Devi Shrine is located within a 15-foot cave. Due to being chased by Bhairavnath, Goddess Vaishno Devi resided and meditated here for nine months. When the demon entered the cave, the Goddess used her trident to create a new entrance and beheaded Bhairavnarth as Mahakali.

Image Credit - Pinterest

The Holy Caves

Vaishno Devi is a Hindu pilgrimage destination in India that is one of the holiest and most visited in the country. Every year, up to ten million people visit the temple. It is estimated to be millions of years old. The Pindis, three natural rock formations inside the cave, serving as a shrine dedicated to Goddess Shakti. The three Pindis represent the Goddesses Lakshmi, Kali, and Saraswati in their various incarnations. A marble platform has been erected all around the entire rock body, which is submerged in water. The Holy Pindies are unique in that while being formed from the same rock, each one is distinct in color and texture.

On the right, the Holy Pindi of Mata Maha Kali is in the colour black, which is linked with her. The deeper and unknown areas of life are associated with this colour. The Mother Goddess continually aids her worshippers to defeat the powers of evil in her Maha Kali attribute. The Mata Vaishno Devi, also known as Mata Maha Lakshmi, is in the centre, with a yellowish-red hue that reflects the quality of inspiration and is thought to be the source of wealth, prosperity, material profits, and high quality of life. The Pindi on the left is revered as Mata Maha Saraswati's Holy Pindi.

Vaishno Devi Yatra 2021

This year Shardiya Navratri is starting from 7 October 2021, there will be a large throng at Maa Vaishno Devi's temple, therefore if you are planning a Vaishno Devi trip, be aware of some necessary rules.

According to the news of The Economic Times, Vaishno Devi's journey has started again. The yatra was closed for about five months due to the Corona epidemic. Every year lakhs of devotees from all over the country reach the Vaishno Devi cave temple located in the Trikuta hills in Jammu and Kashmir. Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) CEO Ramesh Kumar said that in view of Covid-19, many rules have been made for Darshan.

These are the latest guidelines:

Only those pilgrims who have registered online will be allowed.

It is mandatory for pilgrims to use the 'Aarogya Setu' application on their mobile phones.

Only those pilgrims who are completely healthy or who do not have any symptoms of corona will be allowed to travel.

It is mandatory to use a 'face mask and face cover'. People coming from outside states of Jammu and Kashmir will have to get the Covid-19 antigen test done. Only those whose Covid report will be negative will be allowed to visit Maa Vaishno Devi.

People coming from the Covid Red Zone of Jammu and Kashmir will also have to get the Covid-19 antigen test done.

Pilgrims from the Red Zone district will be required to take a Covid-19 test and will only be allowed to advance if the result is 'negative'.

Pilgrims should wash their hands and feet frequently with soap and water before entering the sanctum.

Pilgrims are required to maintain a physical distance of six feet at all times.

Touching idols are not allowed.

Persons above 60 years of age, persons with comorbidities, pregnant women, and children below the age of 10 years are advised to stay at home.

Source - Aaj Tak

Haunted Places In India With Their Bollywood Stories

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 02 Oct 2021 07:35:00 +0000

What if when you have terrific haunted places in your dream. Once everyone in his/her life would have a horrific dream and what happens is that you suddenly get up. Have you ever thought if you have to visit that place for some of your urgent work as the Bollywood celebrities use to visit there for film shoots?

Image Credit - lirix.co.uk

Today I will discuss the story of the haunted places in India which will make you shiver. Ooty, too, has a few locations that have a reputation for being haunted to the point of giving one shiver even in broad daylight.

Ooty is frequently considered as one of India's most beautiful hill stations. Ooty is the most famous weekend gateway and holiday destination in Tamil Nadu, situated on the Nilgiri Hills. The beauty of this location is difficult to convey in a few words. It has earned the title of "Queen of Hill Stations" since the hills can be seen from any vantage point on the earth. Even the most beautiful city and well-known tourist attractions aren't perfect. Many people are aware of Ooty's hidden frightening tales, yet many are unaware of them.

Fern Hill Hotel, Ooty

Image Credit - MakeMyTrip

Let's discuss a location that is not just a well-known haunted spot in Ooty, but also throughout India. This location will almost certainly appear on any list of haunted places in India that you read. You may have gotten a sense of how haunted it is from this introduction.

History Of Fern Hill Hotel

Capt. F. Cotton erected the first Fernhills bungalow in 1844. It changed ownership several times until being renamed Moonesami in mid-1860 and serving as one of Ooty's first country clubs. The English aristocracy would flee the hot and muggy plains of the Madras Presidency during the British Raj, seeking refuge in the cold climes of Ooty, with its stretches of hills and terraced tea gardens. Its appeal has never dwindled, and it now attracts vacationers, honeymooners, film crews, and boarding schools.

Horrific Story Of Fern Hill Hotel

The hotel was closed for a long time due to many paranormal phenomena, but no one knows what happened in the past to make Fern Hill Hotel such a haunted location. People only know that it is haunted and that a girl committed suicide there. The first time it arose was when the Bollywood film “Raaz,” starring Bipasha Basu, was being shot there.

There aren't many, but a few incidents that occurred here are still fresh in people's minds. Many renowned publications and newspapers covered some of them.

Saroj Khan and her group had retired to the hotel late one night. They couldn't sleep the entire night because the furniture on the floor above them was being moved and rearranged. The cast was irritated since they had a shoot scheduled very early in the morning. They even attempted to contact the receptionist, but the phone was switched off. Finally, someone approached the receptionist to express their dissatisfaction and the receptionist confirmed that there is no floor above theirs. Everyone was thrown into a frenzy as a result of this incident.

Another strange thing occurred with Raaz's crew. The team heard a girl singing in the background after the recording was completed. However, she was not present at the time the shot was taken.

Hotel Lakeview

Image Credit - tripadivisor.in

Many people claim that Hotel Lakeview is another haunted location in Ooty. One thing I've never understood is why hotels are said to be haunted. This motel Lakeview is a cozy and friendly spot, yet it can't help but have a few strange episodes now and then.

Many people in the hotel have evidently experienced it. Many folklore and real-life experiences claim to hear a sobbing woman's voice on full moon evenings.

Did you know that the full moon has a strong effect on a person's mind and body? It could simply be a passive reaction that many people have. But one thing we'll never know is whether it's genuinely haunted or just a passive response from folks.

Of course, vacations are for unwinding and getting a break from routine. If you enjoy all things supernatural and frightening, you should try staying at one of these locations; you will have an unforgettable experience. If you visit Ooty, these haunted spots in Ooty will give you something to talk about if you visit.

The Wright Brothers: A True Inspiring Story

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 30 Sep 2021 05:21:00 +0000

The World received a wonderful gift as a result of these brother's hard work and dedication.

It is truly said that If you have strong determination to do something then definitely you can. No matter what obstacles you are surrounded by. Obviously, there could be so many ups and downs but if you are dedicated to your work then no one can beat you.

Image Credit - humansofdata.atlan.com

Today I am going to discuss a very inspiring story of two brothers who proved this statement true. These two are Wright Brothers, Wilbur & Orville. They were the first American inventors who invented Aircraft Controls that enable them to fly. The significance of Wilbur and Orville Wright comes from the fact that they achieved something that the vast majority of people did not believe was achievable.

Wilbur and Orville Wright were pioneers of aviation in the United States. The Wright brothers made history when they flew the first powered, sustained, and controlled airplane flight in 1903; two years later, they built and flew the first entirely operational airplane.

Early Life

Wilbur Wright was born near Millville, Indiana, on April 16, 1867. In a family of five children, he was the middle kid. Milton Wright, his father, was a bishop in the United Brethren in Christ Church. Susan Catherine Koerner was his mother's name. Wilbur Wright's younger brother, Orville Wright, born in 1871, was his playmate as a child.

What if I told you that Wilbur and Orville did not go to college, but Katherine, their younger sister, did.

Milton Wright's preaching required him to travel frequently, and he frequently returned with tiny toys for his children. He returned in 1878 with a miniature model helicopter for his boys. The model, which was made of cork, bamboo, and paper and spun by a rubber band, was based on a design by French aviation pioneer Alphonse Pénaud. Wilbur and Orville would develop a lifetime love of aeronautics and flight as a result of their fascination with the toy and its mechanics.

Wilbur was an exceptionally brilliant and studious student who excelled in school. He had an energetic and vigorous personality, and he planned to attend Yale University after high school. Wilbur's life was turned upside down by an accident in the winter of 1885-86. When another player's stick hit him in the face during an ice hockey game, he was severely hurt.

Image Credit - Wikimedia Commons

Wilbur Wright

Despite the fact that most of Wilbur's injuries healed, the tragedy left him depressed. He did not earn his high school graduation, abandoned his college ambitions, and moved back in with his family. Wilbur spent a lot of time at home during this time, reading books from his family's library and caring for his sick mother. Susan Koerner died of TB in 1889.

The brothers founded their own newspaper, the West Side News, in 1889. Orville was the publisher, and Wilbur edited the paper. Bicycles, a new craze that was sweeping the country, were also a love for the brothers. Wilbur and Orville launched a bicycle store in 1892, repairing and selling their own designs.

Image Credit - www.biography.com

Orville Wright

How They Developed Airplane?

The Wright brothers, who were always working on new mechanical projects and keeping up with scientific study, kept a close eye on German aviator Otto Lilienthal's research. Following Lilienthal's death in a glider crash, the brothers decided to begin their own flight experiments. Wilbur and Orville traveled to Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, noted for having strong winds, in order to build their own successful design.

Wilbur and Orville got to work on figuring out how to make flying wings. They noticed how birds angled their wings for balance and control, and they tried to replicate it, coining the term "wing warping." The Wright brothers discovered they had the golden formula when they added an adjustable rudder—on December 17, 1903, they flew the first free, controlled flight of a power-driven, heavier-than-air plane. Wilbur flew their plane for 59 seconds, covering an incredible distance of 852 feet.

The Wright brothers quickly discovered that their accomplishments were not universally admired. Many in the media, as well as other flight specialists, were skeptical of the brothers' assertions. As a result, Wilbur set out for Europe in 1908, hoping to have better luck persuading the public and selling airplanes.

Recognition

Wilbur found a considerably more receptive audience in France. He took a number of public flights and chauffeured politicians, journalists, and statesmen. Orville, like his brother, went to Europe in 1909, as did their younger sister Katharine. The Wrights were instant celebrities in the country, hosting royals and heads of state and being covered in the news on a regular basis. Before returning to the United States in 1909, the Wrights began selling their airplanes throughout Europe. The brothers made a fortune as businesspeople, filling aviation contracts in Europe and the United States.

Wilbur and Orville shared equal credit for their inventions throughout their careers and remained close friends. However, there was a division of effort behind the scenes. Wilbur was the business brain and CEO of the organization, serving as president of the Wright corporation, thanks to his keen intuition.

Death & Legacy

In April 1912, Wilbur became unwell while on a vacation to Boston. He died on May 30 at his family's home in Dayton, Ohio, after being diagnosed with typhoid fever. “A brief life, full with consequences,” Milton Wright wrote in his diary. He lived and died with an unshakable intelligence, unflappable temper, strong self-confidence and modesty, recognizing the truth clearly and pursuing it steadily.”

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 06:06:00 +0000

Kailash Mansarovar is located near Mount Kailash, Lord Shankar's home. This wonderful place is teeming with secrets. Mount Kailash is the spiritual heart of the world's four major religions: Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism, and Sikhism.

Image Credit - Holidify.com

Religious Belief & History Of Mount Kailash

Mount Kailash is a mountain that rises to a height of 21,778 feet. Every year, thousands of people visit the site to marvel at its beauty and grandeur. Mount Kailash, one of the world's highest summits, is located in the Southwestern corner of Tibet, among the enormous Himalayan ranges. It is also the source of four major Asian rivers, including the Brahmaputra, Ganges, Indus, and Sutlej. Above all, the spiritual value of the location draws a large number of visitors. This magnificent pilgrimage location is undoubtedly visited by people of various religions.

Mount Kailash, according to Hindu belief, was the residence of Lord Shiva and is hence regarded as a manifestation of heaven. According to Tibetan Buddhist traditions, Kailash Mountain is the home of Buddha Demchok, the Buddha of Harmony. In Jainism, Mount Kailash, also known as Mount Ashtapada, is where Rishabhadeva, the religion's founder, attained liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth.

Image Credit - Pinterest

History Of Mansarovar Lake

The heart of spiritual Asia is formed by the Kailash Mountain and the Mansarovar Lake. Mansarovar is made up of two words: 'Manas,' which means mind, and 'Sarovar,' which means lake. The Mansarovar Lake was created in the thoughts of Lord Brahma, according to Hindu mythology, therefore justifying its name.

Mansarovar Lake is a lovely site located 20 kilometers from Mount Kailash, which stands at a height of 15,015 feet. It represents purity and is thought to cleanse persons of the sins they have committed throughout their life. The color of the lake is said to vary. Near the coasts, it's blue, but as you go closer to the centre, it turns emerald green.

An Interesting Fact Of Mansarovar Yatra

You will hear a continual sound as if an airplane is flying close if you visit Mount Kailash or the Lake Mansarovar area. However, if you listen closely, this sound sounds like 'Damru' or 'Om.' According to scientists, this sound could be the result of ice melting, or it could be the result of light and sound interacting in such a way that the sounds of 'Om' can be heard from here.

Points To Keep In Mind While Visit To Kailash Mansarovar

Hundreds of pilgrims travel to India each year to participate in the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a traditional Hindi pilgrimage. The yatra entails two activities: a parikrama of Mount Kailash and a dip in the holy Mansarovar Lake to wash away sins. The yatra can be done on foot or in luxury AC buses, helicopters, and 4500 CC land cruisers. Pre-booking is available through the Ministry of External Affairs or through a private tour in Nepal or Tibet. The yatra takes between 10 to 30 days to complete, including the medical health check-up that takes place in Delhi.

Because Mount Kailash is located in China-controlled Tibet, a passport is required for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. For the yatra, China also provides visas and permits. Because only group visas are granted, the yatra must be organized through tour operators.

Source: Holidify.com

Priyanka Chopra

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 26 Sep 2021 23:21:00 +0000

The Global Icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas is an Indian actress and former Miss World who was born on 18 July 1982, in the city of Jamshedpur, in the state of Bihar now (Jharkhand). Priyanka Chopra is the daughter of physicians Ashok Chopra and Madhu Akhauri. Her younger brother is her only sibling. She lived in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, Newton, Massachusetts, and Cedar Rapids, Iowa as a child.

Image Credit - Bollywood Hungama

Early Years

She attended Lucknow's La Martiniere Girls' School. She subsequently moved to the United States and attended Newton South High School in Newton, Massachusetts, and John F. Kennedy High School in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She then went to India to complete her high school education at the Army School in Bareilly. She then went to Mumbai's Jain Hind College but left after winning the Miss World pageant.

In the year 2000, she was the first runner-up in the Femina Miss India pageant. She went on to win the Miss World title after that. She became the sixth Indian woman to win the title and the fourth in a space of seven years.

Career

Priyanka made her acting debut in the Tamil film Thamizhan in 2002. After that, she made her Bollywood debut in 2003 with the film The Hero: Love Story of a Spy. It was the year's highest-grossing film. After that, she starred in Andaaz, which was a box office hit. She received the Filmfare Best Female Debut Award as well as a nomination for the Filmfare Best Supporting Actress Award for this film.

Then, in 2004, she appeared in films such as Plan, Kismat, and Asambhav, all of which bombed at the box office. Later the same year, she starred in Mujhse Shaadi Karogi, which was the year's third highest-grossing film. She then starred in Aitraaz, in which she played a villain. It was a box office success, and she won the Filmfare Best Villain Award for her performance. She was also nominated for a second time for the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress.

She had six flops in 2005, including Blackmail, Karam, Yakeen, and Barsaat. Following that, she appeared in two films, Waqt: The Race Against Time and Bluffmaster, both of which were box office successes. Then, in 2006, she starred in the films Krrish and Don - The Chase Begins Again, both of which were box office hits. In 2007, she appeared in two additional films, Salaam-e-Ishq: A Tribute To Love and Big Brother, both of which were box office failures.

In 2008, she starred in Love Story 2050, God Tussi Great Ho, Chamkua, and Drona, all of which were box office flops. After that, she starred in Fashion, which was a hit. She won multiple prizes for her performance in this film, including the National Film Award for Best Actress and the Filmfare Award for Best Actress. She appeared in another picture, Dostana, later that year, which was also a success.

On December 1, 2018, Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas get married.

According to the news of INDIA TODAY," Priyanka Chopra gave a beseeming reply to the filmmaker Anubhav Sinha on her praise.

She wrote “THAPPAD SE NAHI, KAAM SE MAARO".

The Most Eye-Catching And Thought-Provoking Feminism Quotes From Priyanka Chopra

"I don’t believe in being a size 0. I don’t believe in starving. Women should totally embrace their curves."

"Financial independence is paramount. My mom always says that when a woman is financially independent, she has the ability to live life on her own terms."

"I wasn't the prettiest girl in the room, but I learned to carry myself with confidence - that's how you make the best impression on people."

Khudneshwar Asthan Morwa, Bihar

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 13:28:00 +0000

Image Credit - mithiladharohar.blogspot.com

Khudneshwar Asthan is a Hindu temple devoted to Lord Shiva located 17 kilometers southwest of the Samastipur district headquarters of Bihar, India.

The name of the temple was inherited from a Muslim woman named Khudni who found the Lingam at this location and became a devotee of Lord Shiva. Under the same temple roof, her mortal remains were interred one-yard south of the Lingam.

History Of The Temple

The Narhan estate established this temple in 1858 during the British Empire and assigned a priest as its administrator. Devotees flock there all year, but notably during the Maha Shivratri festival and the month of Shravan, when thousands gather for darshan and adoration. Chairman of the Bihar Religious Trust Board, Kishore Kunal, declared in 2008 that the board would provide financial help and that it would be created for visitors to demonstrate Hindu-Muslim cooperation.

Image Credit - mithiladharohar.blogspot.com

Legend

The temple site was densely forested in the 14th century and was mostly utilized for grazing cattle. Khudni frequented the area to graze her cow. She tried milking her cow one day after getting home from grazing but received no milk. This went on for a few days. The cow disappeared from her sight one day while grazing. When she discovered the cow, she was astounded to see it shedding milk. She rushed back to the town to tell everyone about her discovery. Locals cleaned the site and began digging, only to discover a Lingam. Her ashes were buried next to the Lingam after she died. They built a temple called "Khudneshwar Asthan," which was derived from the name of a Muslim woman named Khudni Biwi.

How To Reach

By Air - Jai Prakash Narayan International Airport is the nearest airport.

By Train - Samastipur Railway Station is the nearest railway station.

By Road - Located at Morwa block of Samastipur.

Satyendra Nath Bose (1894 - 1974)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 12:32:00 +0000

Satyendra Nath Bose is an Indian physicist who collaborated with Albert Einstein on the Bose-Einstein Condensate and is the inventor of the boson, or "God particle."

Image Credit - thefamouspeople.com

Who Was Satyendra Nath Bose?

Satyendra Nath Bose, an Indian scientist, discovered bosons and collaborated with Albert Einstein to define one of two main types of subatomic particles. To the dismay of the Indian government and people, much of the credit for discovering the boson, or "God particle," was given to British physicist Peter Higgs.

Early Life & Education

Satyendra Nath Bose was born on January 1, 1894, in Calcutta (now Kolkata), West Bengal, India, as the eldest and only male of seven children. Early on, Bose was a genius. He aced the Hindu School's entrance exam, which is one of India's oldest schools, and finished fifth in the order of merit. Following that, Bose joined Presidency College, where he studied alongside renowned scientists Jagadish Chandra Bose and Prafulla Chandra Ray in an intermediate science degree.

Bose graduated from Presidency College with a Bachelor of Science in combined mathematics in 1913 and a Master of Science in the same subject from Calcutta University in 1915. He received such high marks on the tests for each degree that he not only finished first but also set a new record for the latter in the University of Calcutta's annals, which has yet to be surpassed. Meghnad Saha, a fellow student who would eventually work with Bose, came in second.

Bose married Usha Devi at the age of 20 while pursuing his two degrees. In 1916, Bose began his studies on the theory of relativity as a research researcher at the University of Calcutta, where he had completed his master's degree. In addition, he established new departments and laboratories to offer undergraduate and graduate courses.

Research & Teaching Career

Bose worked as a lecturer in the physics department at the University of Calcutta while studying. In 1919, he and Saha published the first English-language book based on translations of Albert Einstein's original special and general relativity papers from German and French. For several years after that, the pair continued to present papers on theoretical physics and pure mathematics.

In 1921, Bose joined the newly founded physics department at the University of Dhaka and went on to found new departments, labs, and libraries where he could teach advanced courses. In 1924, he published a paper in which he deduced Planck's quantum radiation equation without using classical physics, which he accomplished by counting states with equal attributes. The study would go on to be pivotal in the development of the area of quantum statistics. Bose sent the manuscript to Einstein in Germany, who recognized its relevance and translated it into German before submitting it to the prominent scientific journal Zeitschrift für Physik on Bose's behalf. Following the publication, Bose was granted a two-year leave of absence to work in Europe at X-ray and crystallography laboratories, where he collaborated with Einstein and Marie Curie, among others.

Einstein had taken Bose's idea and applied it to atoms, predicting the formation of the Bose-Einstein Condensate, a dense concentration of bosons—particles with integer spin named after Bose.

Bose returned to the University of Dhaka in 1926 after his time in Europe. Despite the fact that he lacked a Ph.D., Einstein proposed that Bose be made a professor, and he was appointed head of the physics department. Bose, on the other hand, did not publish for a long time after his return. Bose's interests meandered into other subjects, including philosophy, literature, and the Indian independence struggle, according to a July 2012 New York Times story describing him as the "Father of the 'God Particle.'" He published another physics paper in 1937 and worked on unified field theories in the early 1950s.

Bose returned to Calcutta in 1945 after 25 years in Dhaka, where he continued to research and teach until his death in 1974.

Honors

Several Nobel Prizes have been granted for work on the boson and the Bose-Einstein Condensate ideas. Physicist Jayant Narlikar named Bose's discovery as one of the top ten achievements of 20th-century Indian science. Bose's work on particle statistics clarified the behavior of photons and "opened the door to new ideas on statistics of Microsystems that obey the rules of quantum theory," according to physicist Jayant Narlikar.

When asked how he felt about the Nobel Prize snub, Bose simply said, "I have gotten all the praise I deserve."

Bose was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award, by the Indian government in 1954. He was named National Professor five years later, the highest award bestowed on a scholar in the country. For the next 15 years, Bose remained in that role. Bose also served as president of the Indian Physical Society and the National Institute of Science, as well as an adviser to the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research. He was elected president of the Indian Statistical Institute and general president of the Indian Science Congress. He was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1958.

The S.N. Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences was established in Salt Lake, Calcutta, some 12 years after Bose's death.

Regardless of the awards and recognition granted by his own country, Bose was largely ignored by the world community as a scientist who produced a significant discovery. People credited British physicist Peter Higgs and the Higgs boson particle when they praised international cooperation that resulted in a breakthrough in recognizing the presence of the boson particle in the summer of 2012.

A.P.J. Abdul Kalam (1931-2015)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 01:17:00 +0000

A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was an Indian scientist and politician who served as President of India between 2002 to 2007.

Image Credit - oneindia.com

Who was A.P.J. Abdul Kalam?

After graduating from the Madras Institute of Technology, A.P.J. Abdul Kalam joined India's military department as an aeronautical scientist. He was a key role in the development of the country's nuclear capabilities, and following a series of successful tests in 1998, he was acclaimed as a national hero. Kalam was India's president for one term, from 2002 to 2007.

His nickname was Missile Man.

Early Years

On October 15, 1931, on the island of Dhanushkodi off the southeastern coast of India, Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam was born into a Muslim family. By watching birds, he developed an early interest in flight, which grew into an interest in aeronautics after seeing a newspaper article on a British fighter plane.

Kalam was a bright student who showed promise in physics and mathematics despite his humble beginnings — his father built and rented boats. He went to St. Joseph's College and graduated from the Madras Institute of Technology with a degree in aeronautical engineering.

Ascend to the Presidency

When he just missed out on a position with the Indian Air Force, his dreams of becoming a fighter pilot were shattered. In 1958, Kalam accepted a position as a senior scientific assistant with the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO). He was named project director of the SLV-III, the first satellite launch vehicle designed and produced on Indian soil, after joining the newly founded Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) in 1969.

In 1982, Kalam returned to the DRDO as director and put in place the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program. In 1992, he was appointed as the senior scientific adviser to India's defense minister, a position he utilized to promote nuclear testing.

In May 1998, Kalam was a crucial figure in the Pokhran-II nuclear experiments in the Rajasthan Desert, in which five nuclear bombs were exploded. Despite the fact that other world powers condemned the tests and imposed economic sanctions, Kalam was lauded as a national hero for his unwavering support of the country's security.

In 2002, India's ruling National Democratic Alliance aided Kalam in defeating Lakshmi Sahgal in an election that saw him become India's 11th president, a primarily ceremonial position. Kalam, also known as the People's President, established a target of holding 500,000 one-on-one interactions with young people throughout his five-year presidency. Because of his enormous popularity, he was nominated for an MTV Youth Icon of the Year award in 2003 and 2006.

Death & Legacy

Kalam died on July 27, 2015, at the age of 83, after suffering a major heart attack while lecturing at the Indian Institute of Management.

In his home Tamil Nadu, Kalam was put to rest on July 30 with full state honors. The Tamil Nadu state government founded the "Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Award" to honor the scientist and former president. The award acknowledges remarkable persons who promote science, students, and the humanities. Kalam's birthday (October 15) has also been designated as "Youth Renaissance Day" by the government. The idea of erecting a large-scale memorial at his gravesite is being discussed.

He was awarded the Padma Bhushan (1981), the Padma Vibhushan (1990), and the Bharat Ratna (1997) - India's highest civilian honors — for his contributions to modernizing government defense technology. He has penned a number of novels, including the autobiographical Wings of Fire, which was published in 1999.

Some great quotes of A.P.J. Abdul Kalam

"Teaching is a very noble profession that shapes the character, caliber, and future of an individual. If people remember me as a good teacher, that will be the biggest honor for me."

"You have to dream before your dreams can come true."

"Look at the sky. We are not alone. The whole universe is friendly to us and conspires only to give the best to those who dream and work."

"If you want to shine like a sun, first burn like a sun."

"Where there is righteousness in the heart, there is beauty in the character. When there is beauty in the character, there is harmony in the home. When there is harmony in the home, there is order in the nation. When there is order in the nation, there is peace in the world."

Bodh Gaya, Bihar

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 18 Sep 2021 07:09:00 +0000

Image Credit - Indiatimes.com

History Of Bodh Gaya

Bodh Gaya is a Buddhist pilgrimage centre in Bihar's Gaya District. Gautama Buddha obtained enlightenment here under the Bodhi tree, which is where the Mahabodhi Temple is located.

Bodh Gaya, which is located near the river Neranjana, was previously known as Uruwela. Until the 18th century CE, it was also known as Sambodhi, Vajrasana, or Mahabodhi. It is one of the four major Buddhist pilgrimage sites, along with Kushinagar, Lumbini, and Sarnath.

It is currently a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and several other countries, like Japan and China, have assisted the Indian government in the construction of facilities for Buddhist pilgrims. Throughout the year, pilgrims from India and outside flock to the area to pay their respects at monasteries, temples, and the remains of the Bodhi Tree.

Bodhgaya was once known as Uruwela and was located on the banks of the river Nerajana, which is today known as the Lilajan. The first temple on the land is thought to have been erected by King Ashoka. According to legend, Buddha was born on the auspicious night of Baisakhi Purnima in 563 BC in a place that is now part of Nepal.

At the age of 29, Prince Siddhartha, the son of a king, left his worldly belongings and traveled far and wide in search of the everlasting truth. He stopped up self-mortification after six years of effort since he did not achieve Vimukthi. He subsequently discovered the Eightfold Path, which set him free from lust, wrath, and delusion, allowing him to achieve enlightenment, or "Buddhatva." The well-known Bodhi tree was where he attained enlightenment. In the days that followed, Jesus attracted a large number of disciples, and the village became a pilgrimage centre. Emperor Ashoka was one of his most ardent followers, and he was responsible for the construction of the famed Mahabodhi temple.

Around the 13th century, the sacred village grew in popularity, and many shrines and temples were created. However, the region soon came into the hands of the cruel Turkish monarchs, who ravaged the city. Later, under British authority, the city was restored to its original hallowed state. The city is now one of the most prominent Buddhist pilgrimage sites, and UNESCO has designated it as a world heritage site.

Mahabodhi Temple

Image Credit - Hindustan Times

The Mahabodhi Temple, one of Buddhism's holiest shrines, commemorates the Buddha's enlightenment (Bodhi). It is situated on the banks of the Niranjana River in Bodh Gaya (central Bihar, northeastern India).

One of India's oldest brick temples is the Mahabodhi Temple. The original edifice, which was later replaced, was built to celebrate the Buddha's Enlightenment by Mauryan monarch Ashoka (died c. 238 BCE), one of Buddhism's most influential proselytes. The temple stands at a height of 55 metres (180 ft). Its pyramidal shikhara (tower) is layered with niches, arch patterns, and beautiful engravings.

The corners of the two-story edifice are adorned with four towers, each identical to its centre counterpart but smaller in height and topped with an umbrella-like dome. A yellow sandstone statue of the Buddha is housed in glass in a shrine inside the temple.

Best Time To Visit Bodh Gaya

According to meteorological conditions, the months of October to March are optimal for a visit, yet people throng here all year. After October, a large number of monks migrate from Dharamshala to Bodh Gaya, transforming the city into a sea of maroon robes. During the months of December and January, the Dalai Lama himself visits. In the month of Vaisakh (April-May), visitors throng here to commemorate the Buddha Purnima, the auspicious day on which Siddhartha acquired enlightenment.

Kuldhara, Rajasthan - The Abandoned Village

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 12 Sep 2021 09:11:00 +0000

Image Credit - www.hellotravel.com

Mystery Of Kuldhara Village

More than 1,500 Paliwal Brahmins lived in Kuldhara around 200 years ago, descendants of a society that had lived there for more than five centuries. The whole population, which includes individuals from 85 villages, was evacuated one day. Overnight.

Salim Singh, the Diwan of Jaisalmer, who was renowned for dishonesty and unethical tax collection techniques, had set his sights on the lovely daughter of the village head at this time, and in order to get her, he told all the villagers that if they came in his way, he would levy enormous fees. Fearing Diwan, the residents of Kuldhara hamlet fled one dark night, leaving their homes and everything behind, and the village was abandoned by its own people. After generations, no one knows where the Paliwals have settled, but it is known that they cursed the town, saying that no one would ever be allowed to settle in Kuldhara village.

This village's history stretches back to the 1800s when it was an affluent Paliwal Brahmin village. The villagers were meant to pay the state minister, Salim Singh, the taxes levied on them, according to popular legend. Salim Singh fell in love with the chief's lovely daughter while visiting Kuldhara and stated his intention to marry her. He threatened the residents of Kuldhara that if they did not give him the girl, he would impose exorbitant taxes on them. Rather than marrying his daughter to the minister, the village head, together with the chiefs of 84 other villages, opted to abandon Kuldhara and travel to another location. No one had seen the villagers depart, and no one knew where they had all gone. But how could such a large number of peasants vanish in one night? This is still a mystery!

Image Credit - www.hellotravel.com

Another possible reason could be Salim Singh's massive taxation of the people. The taxes were so oppressive that the residents chose to relocate to another location. But who doesn't enjoy a smidgeon of suspense and romance? This is why the first story is so popular!

Sightseeing At Kuldhara Village

Kuldhara Village is a historical site that is presently preserved by the Archaeological Survey of India. Tourists can visit the site and take a look around to see how the ancient village used to be. The Kuldhara region covers a large area and includes roughly 85 minor hamlets. The villages' homes and cottages are all damaged and in ruins. There's also the ruins of an old temple dedicated to some deity, perhaps Mother Nature, which is now deserted. There are inscriptions inside the temple that have assisted archaeologists in learning more about the hamlet and its ancient inhabitants.

The village of Kuldhara is a treasure trove for people who are looking for an out-of-the-ordinary tourist experience.

Timings and Entry Fees for Kuldhara Village

The village gates are open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. every day of the week. The residents seal the gates after nightfall since the area is said to be haunted.

Kuldhara Village has an entrance fee of INR 10 per person and INR 50 if you arrive by car.

How To Reach Kuldhara Village?

The settlement of Kuldhara is about 18-20 kilometers from Jaisalmer's main city. So, when visiting Rajasthan, when you arrive in Jaisalmer, you can take a cab from the city or book a rental car to transport you to the haunted village's entrance gates.

Swami Vivekananda (1863 - 1902)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 11 Aug 2021 23:19:00 +0000

Narendra is another name for Swami Vivekananda. He was a great thinker, orator, and ardent patriot. On the 12th of January, National Youth Day is held to commemorate Swami Vivekananda's birth anniversary.

Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Swami Vivekananda was born in Kolkata on January 12, 1863. (earlier Calcutta). He was a religious leader as well as a social reformer. His speeches, writings, letters, poems, and thoughts inspired not only Indian youth but also people all over the world. He founded the Ramakrishna Mission and Belur Math in Calcutta, both of which continue to serve the poor. He was a wise man and a down-to-earth individual.

Life and Education of Swami Vivekananda

Narendranath Dutta, Vivekananda's birth name, came from a wealthy Bengali family in Calcutta. Vishwanath Dutta and Bhuvneshwari Devi had eight children, and he was one among them. He was born on the 12th of January, 1863, on Makar Sankranti. His father was an attorney and a well-known figure in society. Vivekananda's mother was a devout Christian who had a profound influence on her son.

Vivekananda enrolled at Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar's Institution at the age of eight in 1871, and afterward at the Presidency College in Calcutta. Western philosophy, Christianity, and science were all introduced to him. He was interested in both instrumental and vocal music. He participated in gymnastics, wrestling, and bodybuilding as well as other sports. He enjoyed reading as well, and by the time he graduated from college, he had amassed a broad understanding of a variety of disciplines. Do you know that he read Hindu writings such as the Bhagavad Gita and Upanishads on the one hand, and western ideas and spirituality by David Hume, Herbert Spencer, and others on the other?

Spiritual Crisis and met with Ramakrishna Paramhansa

He grew up in a religious home, but his studies of religious materials caused him to doubt God's existence, and he occasionally believed in Agnosticism. However, he was unable to entirely dismiss God's supremacy. In 1880, he became a member of Keshab Chandra Sen's Nava Vidhan and of the Sadharan Brahmo Samaj, which was led by Keshab Chandra Sen and Debendranath Tagore.

Unlike idol worship, the Brahmo Samaj recognized only one God. Vivekananda had several questions on his mind during his spiritual crisis, and it was from William Hastie, the Principal of the Scottish Church College, that he first learned of Shri Ramakrishna. He finally met Shri Ramakrishna Paramhansa at the Dakshineshwar Kali Temple, and Vivekananda asked him, "Have you seen God?" a question he had asked many spiritual masters but had not received a satisfactory answer to. When he asked Ramakrishna, though, he received such a straightforward response that he was taken aback "Yes, I did. I see God in the same way I see you, but in a far more profound way ". Following this, Vivekananda began visiting Dakshineshwar, where he received various solutions to the concerns that had been bothering him.

When Swami Vivekananda's father died, the entire family was thrown into financial ruin. He approached Ramakrishna and requested that he pray for his family, but Ramakrishna declined and ordered Vivekananda to pray in front of Goddess Kali himself. He couldn't ask for wealth or money, so he prayed for conscience and seclusion instead. On that day, he experienced a spiritual awakening and began his ascetic life. It was at this stage in his life that he adopted Ramakrishna as his Guru.

Ramakrishna was diagnosed with throat cancer in 1885 and was sent to Calcutta, then to a garden home in Cossipore. Vivekananda and other Ramakrishna disciples looked after him. Shri Ramakrishna gave up his mortal body on August 16, 1886. Narendra was taught that the most effective way to worship God was to serve others. After Ramakrishna's death, fifteen of his pupils, including Narendranath, began to live together at Ramakrishna Math in Baranagar, North Calcutta. In 1887, all of Narendranath's disciples took monastic vows, and he became Vivekananda, which means "the happiness of perceiving wisdom." They all practiced yoga and meditation. Furthermore, Vivekananda left the math and resolved to walk throughout India, a journey that became known as 'Parivrajak.' He witnessed a variety of social, cultural, and religious aspects of the people, as well as what ordinary people encounter in their daily lives, such as their hardships.

The World Parliament of Religions was attended by Swami Vivekananda.

When he learned about the World Parliament in Chicago, America, he was ecstatic. He was eager to represent India and his Guru's views at the gathering. He went to the Religious meeting after a series of misfortunes. He entered the stage on September 11, 1893, and astonished everyone by saying, "My brothers and sisters of America." He earned a standing ovation from the audience for this. He explained Vedanta's ideas, their spiritual meaning, and so on.

He stayed in America for almost two and a half years and created the Vedanta Society of New York. He also preached Vedanta's theories, spiritualism, and values throughout the United Kingdom.

Ramkrishna Mission

He returned to India about 1897 and settled in Calcutta, where he launched the Ramakrishna Mission on May 1, 1897, at Belur Math. The mission's goals were founded on Karma Yoga, and its principal goal was to help the country's destitute, suffering, or disturbed people. This goal also includes the establishment of schools, colleges, and hospitals, among other social services. Conferences, seminars, and workshops, as well as rehabilitation work, were used to spread Vedanta teachings across the country.

Death

He prophesied that he would not live to be 40 years old. As a result, he died on July 4, 1902, while meditating. On the banks of the Ganga, he is supposed to have attained 'Mahasamadhi' and was cremated.

Some Great Quotes Of Swami Vivekananda

"All the powers in the universe are already our. It is we who have put our hands before our eyes and cry that it is dark."

"Arise, awake, and stop not until the goal is achieved."

“Take risks in your life. If you win, you can lead, if you lose, you can guide.”

“Learn everything that is good from others but bring it in, and in your own way absorb it; do not become others.”

“A man is not poor without a rupee but a man is really poor without a dream and ambition.”

“Take up one idea, make that one idea your life, think of it, dream of it, let the brain, muscles, nerves, every part of your body be full of that idea, and just leave every other idea alone. This is the way to success.”

Kalpana Chawla (1962 - 2003)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 09 Aug 2021 00:55:00 +0000

Seven astronauts died in the catastrophic loss of the space shuttle Columbia. Kalpana Chawla, the first Indian-born woman in space, was one of them.

Chawla was born on July 1, 1961, in Karnal, India, to a family of four. Kalpana is a Hindu name that means "idea" or "imagination." Kalpana Chawla was the first woman of Indian origin to go to space. She was an American astronaut and engineer. She was a mission specialist and principal robotic arm operator on the Space Shuttle Columbia for the first time in 1997.

Before relocating to the United States and becoming a naturalized citizen in the 1980s, Chawla earned a degree in aeronautical engineering from Punjab Engineering College. She received her Ph.D. in aeronautical engineering from the University of Colorado in 1988, after earning her master's from the University of Texas. She started working on power-lift computational fluid dynamics at NASA's Ames Research Center the same year.

Chawla was chosen as an astronaut candidate in 1994. She worked with Robotic Situational Awareness Displays and evaluated software for the space shuttles after a year of training as a crew representative for the Astronaut Office EVA/Robotics and Computer Branches.

Chawla's first trip into orbit was aboard the space shuttle Columbia on flight STS-87 in November 1997. In just over two weeks, the shuttle completed 252 Earth orbits. On its journey, the shuttle carried a variety of experiments and observation instruments, including a Spartan satellite that Chawla launched from the shuttle. Due to software issues, the satellite that examined the sun's outer layer malfunctioned, and two other astronauts from the shuttle had to execute a spacewalk to recover it.

Disaster Strikes

Chawla was chosen for her second trip into space in 2000, this time as a mission specialist on STS-107. After repeated delays, the mission was finally launched in 2003. During the 16-day flight, the crew carried out more than 80 experiments.

The space shuttle returned to Earth on Feb. 1, 2003, with the intention of landing at Kennedy Space Center. A briefcase-sized piece of insulation had fallen off during launch, damaging the shuttle's thermal protection system, the shield that shelters it from heat during re-entry. The shuttle broke up as it traveled through the atmosphere due to hot gas streaming into the wing. The astronauts were tossed around by the unsteady craft as it rocked and bucked. The ship depressurized in less than a minute, killing the crew. Before crashing into the ground, the spacecraft disintegrated over Texas and Louisiana. Following the Challenger explosion in 1986, the crash was the second significant disaster for the space shuttle programme.

The entire seven-person crew was killed. In addition to Chawla, the following members of the crew were present:

Commander Rick D. Husband
Pilot William C. McCool
Payload Commander Michael P. Anderson
Payload Specialist Ilan Ramon, the first Israeli astronaut
Mission Specialists David M. Brown and Laurel B. Clark

Chawla spent 30 days, 14 hours, and 54 minutes in space over the course of her two flights. "When you look at the stars and the galaxy, you feel like you are not just from any one piece of land, but from the solar system," she stated after her maiden launch.

The legacy of Kalpana Chawla

Columbia's events have been formally studied and reported on in order to learn more about what happened and how to avoid a repeat of the tragedy in future spaceflights. The Columbia Accident Investigation Board (2003) and NASA's Columbia Crew Survival Investigation Report are two examples (released in 2008).

The Columbia crew has been the subject of several documentaries. "Astronaut Diaries: Remembering the Columbia Shuttle Crew" (2005) and "Space Shuttle Columbia: Mission of Hope," which centred on Ilan Ramon, are two examples (2013).

In 2010, the Arlington College of Engineering at the University of Texas dedicated a Kalpana Chawla memorial. The exhibit contained a flying suit, photographs, biographical information about Chawla, and a banner flown over the Johnson Space Center during a memorial for the Columbia astronauts when it first opened.

There have been various speculations about Chawla-related films in development, including one in 2017 with actress Priyanka Chopra (known for Baywatch and Quantico, as well as Bollywood films). "Until I publish a public declaration confirming my participation in such a project, take it for granted that I have not signed any deal nor leased any rights essential to produce such a movie," Chawla's husband, Jean-Pierre Harrison, remarked in a Quora conversation in 2017.

Charlie Chaplin (1889 - 1977)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 09 Aug 2021 00:53:00 +0000

Sir Charles Spencer Chaplin was an English comedian, filmmaker, and composer who became famous during the silent film era.

Who was Charlie Chaplin?

Before establishing his imprint on the big screen, Charlie Chaplin worked with a children's dancing team. His character "The Tramp" became an iconic figure of the silent-film period because of pantomime and peculiar gestures. Chaplin went on to become a director and co-founder of the United Artists Corporation, directing films such as City Lights and Modern Times.

Childhood & Early Life

Charlie Chaplin was an iconic figure of the silent-film period and one of the first superstars, elevating the business in ways few could have anticipated. He was most known for his character "The Tramp," a lovely little man with a bowler hat, mustache, and cane.

Chaplin was born Charles Spencer Chaplin on April 16, 1889, in London, England. His climb to stardom is a true rags-to-riches tale. Soon after Chaplin's birth, his father, a known alcoholic, abandoned him, his mother, and his older half-brother, Sydney. Chaplin and his brother were placed in the care of their mother, a vaudevillian and music hall singer known as Lily Harley.

For a few years, Chaplin's mother, who would eventually suffer from serious mental illness and be committed to an asylum, was able to maintain her family. Hannah, however, lost her voice in the middle of a play that would bring her youngest son to the spotlight, causing the production manager to shove the five-year-old Chaplin, whom he'd heard sing, onto the stage to replace her.

Chaplin wowed the audience with his natural presence and comic viewpoint (he imitated his mother's cracked voice at one point). However, Hannah's story came to an end with this episode. Her singing voice never came back, and she ran out of money. Chaplin and Sydney had to find a new, temporary home in London's brutal workhouses for a while.

Career

Chaplin was anxious to follow in his mother's footsteps into show business, and in 1897, he landed with a clog-dancing band known as the Eight Lancashire Lads, thanks to his mother's connections. It was only a brief appearance, and it wasn't particularly lucrative, leaving Chaplin to eke out a living in whatever way he could.

"I (was) a newsvendor, printer, toymaker, doctor's boy, and so on," Chaplin later recalled, "but I never lost sight of my ultimate goal to become an actor during these occupational digressions." "So, in between jobs, I'd polish my shoes, brush my clothes, put on a clean collar, and phone a theatrical agency on a regular basis."

Other stage jobs eventually came his way. Chaplin made his acting debut as a pageboy in a Sherlock Holmes performance. From there, he toured with Casey's Court Circus before joining the Fred Karno pantomime troupe in 1908, where he became one of its stars as the Drunk in the hilarious piece A Night in an English Music Hall.

Chaplin got his first experience of America with the Karno company when he drew the attention of film producer Mack Sennett, who hired Chaplin to a $150-a-week contract.

Chaplin made his cinema debut in 1914 with Make a Living, a mediocre one-reeler. Chaplin wanted to portray a single recognizable character to distinguish himself from the myriad of other actors in Sennett films, and "The Little Tramp" was born, with audiences having their first taste of him in Kid Auto Races at Venice (1914).

Chaplin starred in 35 films during the next year, including Tillie's Punctured Romance, the first full-length comedy. Chaplin left Sennett in 1915 to join the Essanay Company, which offered him $1,250 per week. Chaplin, who had engaged his brother Sydney as his business manager by this time, soared to popularity with Essanay.

Chaplin made 14 movies in his first year with the studio, including The Tramp (1915). The plot portrays Chaplin's character as the unexpected hero when he saves the farmer's daughter from a gang of robbers. It is widely recognized as the actor's first classic.

Chaplin was a superstar by the age of 26, only three years gone from his vaudeville days. He'd switched to the Mutual Company, which offered him a salary of $670,000 each year. Chaplin became wealthy as a result of the money, but it didn't appear to stifle his artistic ambitions. One A.M. (1916), The Rink (1916), The Vagabond (1916), and Easy Street (1916) were among his best films made with Mutual (1917).

Chaplin had a reputation as a ruthless perfectionist as a result of his work. His penchant for experimentation resulted in endless takes, and he was known to order the rebuilding of entire sets. It was also not uncommon for him to start filming with one major actor, discover he'd made a casting error, and start again with someone fresh.

However, the findings were difficult to reject. Chaplin's career grew considerably further during the 1920s. The Kid (1921), The Pilgrim (1923), A Woman in Paris (1923), The Gold Rush (1925), a picture Chaplin would later claim he wished to be known for, and The Circus (1926) were among the films he made during this decade (1928). United Artists, which Chaplin co-founded in 1919 with Douglas Fairbanks, Mary Pickford, and D.W. Griffith, released the last three films.

Wives & Children

Chaplin's off-screen life became as famous as his on-screen existence. He had multiple affairs with actresses who had roles in his films. Some, on the other hand, fared better than others.

In 1918, he married Mildred Harris, a 16-year-old girl. After a two-year marriage to actress Lita Grey, whom he'd cast in The Gold Rush, he married for the second time in 1924. An unanticipated pregnancy had precipitated the marriage, and the resultant union, which produced two boys for Chaplin (Charles Jr. and Sydney), was unhappy for both spouses. In 1927, they divorced.

Chaplin married for the second time in 1936, this time to Paulette Goddard, a chorus girl. They were in place until 1942. Following that, Chaplin was involved in a contentious paternity battle with another actress, Joan Barry, in which testing revealed that he was not the father of her daughter, but a jury nonetheless ordered him to pay child support.

Chaplin married Oona O'Neill, the daughter of playwright Eugene O'Neill, in 1943. Surprisingly, the two would go on to have a successful marriage, with eight children as a result.

Final Years & Death

Chaplin made one more trip to the United States in 1972 when he was honored with an honorary Academy Award, as he was nearing the end of his life. The voyage took place barely five years after Chaplin's final film, A Countess from Hong Kong (1967), which was also his first and only color film. Despite having a star cast that featured Sophia Loren and Marlon Brando, the picture was a box office flop. Chaplin was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1975, bringing him even more fame.

Chaplin died on December 25, 1977, in the early hours of the morning at his house in Corsier-sur-Vevey, Vaud, Switzerland. At the time of his death, his wife, Oona, and seven of his children were at his bedside. Chaplin's remains were kidnapped from his tomb near Lake Geneva in Switzerland by two guys who demanded $400,000 for its return, in a twist that could have come straight out of one of his comedies. Chaplin's body was discovered 11 weeks after the men were apprehended.

Chola Temples, Tamil Nadu

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 09 Aug 2021 00:52:00 +0000

Image Credit - www.traveltriangle.com

History Of The Great Living Chola Temples

The temptation of history is strong. It instructs us on the culture, people, and customs of a bygone era. For centuries, the Chola Empire dominated the southern sections of the country. They left us a large chunk of history in the form of some of the most majestic temples ever built. Between the 11th and 12th centuries, the Chola Temples were built. The three temples built by the Chola dynasty are listed as "Great Living Chola Temples" on the UNESCO World Heritage Site. These are - The Brihadesvara Temple (Thanjavur), Brihadisvara Temple (Gangaikondacholisvaram) and Airavatesvara Temple (Darasuram).

1. The Brihadesvara Temple (Thanjavur)

Image Credit - www.traveltriangle.com

Brihadisvara Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India. It was established between 1003 and 1010 AD by Raja Raja Chola I. It is located 350 kilometers southwest of Chennai and is one of the largest temples in South India. The location is well-served by bus and train services. The nearest airport, Tiruchirappalli International Airport, is 55 kilometers distant if you wish to fly for a quick weekend vacation.

This Chola Temple, which is almost 1000 years old, is the magnificent masterpiece of architect Kunjara Mallan Raja Raja Perumthachan. The big temple's building is based on symmetrical geometry principles. The massive temple structure is divided into five components. Sri vimana is the name of the high tower where the sanctuary is located, and the Nandi hall or Nandi-mandapam is positioned in front of the complex. The Mahamandapam, a large gathering hall, and the Mukhamandapam, a community service hall, are located between these two structures. There is also a pavilion that serves as a link between the sanctum and the Ardhamandapam, or gathering hall. The exquisite carvings and paintings on the walls of these structures tell loudly about the talented artists of the time.

Interesting Fact: While visiting Sri Lanka, Raja Raja Chola had a dream that led to the construction of the Great Living Chola Temple.

2. Gangaikonda Cholapuram (Brihadisvara Temple)

Image Credit - www.traveltriangle.com

Another of the Great Living Chola Temples, Gangaikonda Cholapuram (Brihadisvara Temple), is located in the peaceful district of Ariyalur in Tamil Nadu. The temple is located 280 kilometers from Chennai and is easily accessible by bus and train.

Rajendra Chola I built the majestic temple in the year 1035 AD. He was given the epithet Gangaikonda Chola, the conqueror of the Ganges, after conquering the Ganges in the northern section of the nation. He established Gangaikonda Cholapuram as his kingdom's capital and declared it to be so. It was the capital of the country for 250 years. Although Shiva is the principal deity in the temple, other deities such as Durga, Surya, and Vishnu, to name a few, are also prayed to.

The Brihadisvara Temple's architecture style is a square design plan, which depicts the infamous Dravidian architectural style. All of the monuments on the grounds of this magnificent Chola temple are square in design. Two square structures that are built adjacent to each other cover the main courtyard. Squarish structures include the major sanctum, Garbha Griha, the mandapas, and the Upapitham. The bronze figures at the temple represent the traditional artistry of the Chola kingdom in the 11th century.

Interesting Fact: Annaabishegam, a big festival held once a year, is a fantastic occasion to visit the ancient place. Lingam, the principal god, is covered in rice from top to bottom. A total of 75 bags of rice are required to cover it due to its gigantic size.

3. Airavatesvara Temple (Darasuram)

Darasuram, in Tamil Nadu, is home to Airavatesvara Temple, which is located near Kumbakonam. It is devoted to Shiva, like are other Chola temples. Rajaraja Chola II constructed it in the 12th century.

The magnificent temple is an architectural masterpiece, with meticulous carving and sculpture done by skilled artisans on the chariot structure. The temple is modeled after a chariot drawn by a horse and an elephant. All of the great living Chola temples have the same architectural style, with square structures. At the entrance to the temple complex, there is a 212-foot Vimana, a Lingam, a giant Goddess Periyanayagi statue, and a massive Nandhi. The paintings and epigraphs depict the Chola dynasty's history. The ceiling carving of Shiva and Parvati seated on the inner side of a blossoming lotus is a magnificent sight.

Points To Keep In Mind

Inside the Chola temples' major shrines, photography is prohibited.
Dress accordingly, keeping the cultural sensitivities in mind.
Visit these wonderful live Chola temples with a tour guide who will explain the architectural and religious significance of everything in great detail. The tour guides are fluent in English and Hindi. They can also communicate in Tamil.

The Great Living Chola Temples' distinctive architecture captivates visitors. These are considered watershed moments in the growth of Southern Indian architecture. The inscriptions on the temple walls are beautifully depicted historical narratives. During the Chola kingdom's reign, the beautifully sculpted pillars demonstrate the Chola kingdom's design intelligence. If you haven't already planned a trip to these stone-carved wonders, now is the time.

Laxmi Vilas Palace, Vadodra

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 09 Aug 2021 00:51:00 +0000

Image Credit - Pinterest

History Of Laxmi Vilas Palace

Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III's private house, Laxmi Vilas Palace, is one of India's most spectacular monuments. This majestic palace is a must-see when visiting Vadodara. It is known to be the world's largest private house, with a size equivalent to four times that of Buckingham Palace.

The eye-catching Laxmi Vilas Palace was built in 1890 and took nearly a decade to finish. It is still home to Vadodara's royal dynasty, the Gaekwads, and spans an area of around 700 acres. With domes, minarets, and arches, it is designed in the Indo-Saracenic style, which is a combination of Hindu, Gothic, and Mughal architectural features.

The LVP Banquets and Conventions, Moti Baug Palace, and the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum are among the other buildings that make up the Laxmi Vilas Palace complex. The museum was originally built as a school for Maharaja's children. It now displays an exceptional collection of Raja Ravi Verma paintings as well as numerous other artifacts gathered from all across the world. The entry price includes a superb audio tour as well as a complimentary drink and snack.

Architecture Of Laxmi Vilas Palace

The Laxmi Vilas Palace is still one of India's most spectacular Raj-era palaces.
The palace's interiors have well-kept antiques, artwork, and chandeliers.
The palace was constructed using the most cutting-edge technology, including elevators, at the time of its construction in order to make it more suitable for use with modern amenities.
It was created for only two individuals, the Maharaja and Maharani, and includes 170 rooms.
Mosaic floors, antique furnishings, Venetian chandeliers, and Belgian stained glass windows greet visitors as they enter the Darbar Hall. This beautiful room, which houses some of the best bronze, marble, and terracotta statues, is frequently used for cultural events and musical concerts.
The Laxmi Vilas Palace is a 700-acre complex that includes the stunning Navlakhi stepwell, the Maharaja Fatehgarh museum, and a small zoo where crocodiles are known to relax.
The armoury houses a unique collection of swords and combat weapons utilized by the Maharaja during his reign.

Attractions At Laxmi Vilas

There is a swimming pool on the deck, which is one of the most popular tourist attractions. The area becomes even more pleasurable for families with the addition of a Jacuzzi and a baby pool. There is also an Ayurvedic massage centre near the pool that offers a variety of therapeutic massages and treatments.

Puppet shows have long been a part of Rajasthani culture, and they are performed at the palace every evening.

Table tennis, a pool table, and a carom board are available in the entertainment facilities. In addition, a children's play area is located near the swimming pool, allowing parents to relax while keeping an eye on their children. You can also go on a sightseeing tour by making a reservation at the on-site travel desk.

On request, a cultural programme, as well as a DJ, can be arranged.

Movies Shot At Laxmi Vilas

Prem Rog in 1982
Dil Hi Toh Hai in 1993
Grand Masti in 2013
Sardaar Gabbar Singh in 2016

How To Reach

The palace is situated on Nehru Road, making it easily accessible by cabs and auto-rickshaws. The means of transportation is conveniently accessible from any location in the city.

Unakoti Temple in Tripura

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 07 Aug 2021 01:02:00 +0000

Image Credit - makemytrip.com

Mystery of Unakoti Temple

Unakoti is a Hindi word that means "one less than a crore" (10 million). Although there aren't many rock-cut sculptures in the area, the hundreds of enormous rock-cut and sandstone sculptures, as well as scattered ruins of ancient temples, make Unakoti a special spot.

The Unakoti Tirtha, around 180 kilometers from Tripura's capital, Agartala, and about 8 kilometers from Kailasahwar town's sub-divisional headquarters is a one-of-a-kind site that bears no relation to any other in the country in terms of sheer grandeur and creativity.

The site is associated with a multitude of legends and myths, and locals regard it as a sacred site. One of the legends surrounding the place is that a prominent sculptor named Kalukumar had a dream in which he met Lord Shiva. The Lord instructed him to carve out one crore figures in one night in order to make the spot as holy as Varanasi. The sculptor and his colleagues toiled through the night and were nearly finished with the construction of one crore sculptures. When Kalukumar was just one sculpture from immortality, he had the idea to carve out his own figure, but the day broke out before he could finish his job, and the tremendous task of one crore sculptures began and the figures were still missing.

Another tale claims that one crore gods and goddesses, along with their followers, were on their way to Varanasi, led by Lord Shiva. They stated that they wanted to sleep for the night. Except for Lord Shiva, none of the gods were able to rise at the crack of dawn in the morning. Others had been transformed into stone. As a result, the location was given the name Unakoti.

Tourists Attractions

A 33-foot-high bust of Lord Shiva stands among the rock-cut sculptures. It had an 11-foot-tall headpiece that is now partially damaged. Unakotiswara Kalabhairava is the name given to the bust, which is the primary figure in the complex. Shiva's bust is distinguished by a third eye and a trident. On either side of the bust, two individuals are seated. The goddess Durga is said to be seated on a lion in one of the sculptures, while Ganga is said to be astride a Capricorn in the other.

How To Reach

Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport in Agartala is the closest airport.

Kumarghat railway station is the nearest station.

Dilip Kumar (1922-2021)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 07 Aug 2021 01:01:00 +0000

Mohammed Yusuf Khan, well known by his stage name Dilip Kumar, was an Indian actor and film producer (11 December 1922 - 7 July 2021), who worked in Hindi cinema.

Who was Dilip Kumar?

Dilip Kumar, widely known as the Tragedy King, was one of the greatest actors to ever grace Indian film. Born Muhammad Yusuf Khan, he went by the screen name Dilip Kumar to follow in the footsteps of early Hindi film legends. The legendary actor had a lengthy and distinguished career that spanned five decades and was regarded as one of the most important figures of India's 'Golden Era of Cinema.' In the 1940s, when Bollywood was still in its infancy, he entered the world of Hindi cinema. His journey into acting happened by chance—he was working as a canteen owner when he met actress Devika Rani and was offered a role in a film.

Despite the fact that his debut film did not do well, by the end of the decade, he had established himself as an emotional character actor. Despite the fact that he was a talented actor who could play a variety of characters with equal intensity and efficiency, he was best renowned for playing tragic roles in films such as "Jogan," "Deedar," and "Devdas," earning him the name "Tragedy King." Dilip Kumar holds the distinction of being the first actor to win the Filmfare Best Actor Award, which he received eight times throughout the course of his career.

Childhood & Early Life

Muhammad Yusuf Khan, Dilip Kumar's real name, was born in Peshawar to a Pashtun family (now in Pakistan). Lala Ghulam Sarwar, his father, was a fruit merchant. He attended the elite Barnes School in Deolali for his primary education.

During the 1930s, his huge family moved to Mumbai in quest of a brighter future for their children.

Dilip Kumar moved to Pune in the early 1940s and started a canteen there. Dry fruit was one of the ways he supplemented his income.

Career

In 1943, Dilip Kumar met actress Devika Rani and her husband Himanshu Rai. Rai was the proprietor of Bombay Talkies, and the husband-and-wife team chose Dilip Kumar to play the lead part in their 1944 film "Jwar Bhata." He went by the screen name Dilip Kumar during this time.

In 1947, he played Sooraj in the film ‘Jugnu,' which also featured Noor Jehan and Shashikala. The picture was a smash hit, and it is remembered as the great actor's first huge hit.

Following the success of ‘Jugnu,' Dilip Kumar was inundated with film offers and starred in a number of films in 1948, including ‘Shaheed,' ‘Mela,' and ‘Anokha Pyar,' the latter of which was a great smash.

In 1949, he made his major break with Mehboob Khan's film "Andaz." It was a love triangle starring Raj Kapoor and Nargis. The film went on to become the highest-grossing film in India at the time.

He had a tremendously productive decade in the 1950s. His image as a tragic hero began to emerge during this period, as he played sad characters in films such as "Jogan" (1950), "Deedar" (1951), and "Daag" (1952).

In 1955, he starred as the titular character in "Devdas," a love drama starring Vyjayanthimala and Suchitra Sen. His portrayal of an obsessive lover who ruins his life by drinking is frequently seen as the tragic lover's pinnacle.

In 1957, he starred opposite Vyjayanthimala in the drama film "Naya Daur." The drama was set against the backdrop of India's post-independence industrialization. The film was a big commercial success.

After achieving superstardom in the 1950s, he ushered in the 1960s with a stunning performance as Yuvraj Rana Devendra Bahadur in "Kohinoor" (1960), for which he earned a Filmfare Best Actor Award.

He had a good decade in the 1960s, though not as successful as the previous decade. ‘Gunga Jumna' (1961), ‘Dil Diya Dard Liya' (1966), ‘Ram Aur Shyam' (1967), and ‘Aadmi' were his notable films (1968).

During the 1970s, Dilip Kumar's career stalled as fresh actors like Rajesh Khanna and Amitabh Bachchan gained fame. He only appeared in a few films that did not fare well at the box office, including ‘Gopi' (1970), ‘Sagina' (1974), and ‘Bairaag' (1976). Following this, he took a five-year break.

In 1981, he made a successful comeback with the multi-starrer ‘Kranti,' which included Shashi Kapoor, Hema Malini, Prem Chopra, Shatrughan Sinha, and Paintal, among others.

In the 1980s and 1990s, he began to play roles that were more appropriate for his age. He played the father or grandfather of the young characters in a number of films. His last film appearance was in the 1998 picture ‘Qila,' in which he portrayed two characters.

Major Works

Dilip Kumar's film "Devdas," a love triangle centered on Devdas and Paro's tragic love, is one of his most well-known works. The film earned him a Filmfare Award and was named one of Indiatimes Movies' Top 25 Must-See Bollywood Films in 2005.

His film ‘Kohinoor,' in which he co-starred with Meena Kumari, was a rare light-hearted role for him. The film is known for its comedic sequences, and Dilip Kumar received a Filmfare Award for his performance.

‘Ram Aur Shyam,' a film in which he played twin siblings who are separated at birth and eventually reunited, is a well-known film that has inspired several of the Hindi remakes.

Awards & Achievements

Dilip Kumar has won eight Filmfare Best Actor Awards, which he shares with Shah Rukh Khan for the most.

In 1991, the Government of India awarded him the Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian award.

In 1993, he was honoured with the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award.

Personal Life & Legacy

Dilip Kumar had a romantic relationship with actress Madhubala, but they had to break up since her father was against their marriage.

He married Saira Banu, a much younger actress, in 1966 when he was 44 and she was 22 years old.

In 1981, he married Asma for the second time, however, the marriage was short-lived and terminated in divorce in 1983.

From 2000 until 2006, he was a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha.

Dilip Kumar died on July 7, 2021, at the age of 98, at Hinduja Hospital in Mumbai. He was afflicted with prostate cancer.

Trivia

After performing multiple tragic roles, Dilip Kumar developed depression and was encouraged by his therapist to explore lighter roles.

He holds the Guinness World Record for most accolades received by an Indian actor.