Member Type Contributor
by Khushi Anand
Tamil Nadu, the land of Tamils & Temples!
September 28, 2020 in Editorial, Tamilnadu
Classic Tamil Nadu, the land of Tamils and Temples, is situated on the southern tip of the Indian Peninsula. This gateway to the South offers everything that excites visitors: clean and quiet hill stations, beautiful beaches, majestic temples with towering gopurams, waterfalls, monuments, art, culture, heritage, and much more.
This warm and hospitable land is the home of Dravidian art and culture. Tamil Nadu has over 2000 years of continuous cultural history. The State’s recorded history commences from about 1st century A.D. and is dominated by the Pallavas, the Pandyas, the Cholas, and the Cheras up to the 14th century. These empires more or less co-existed in time but held rule in different parts of Tamil Nadu. They were great patrons of art and culture, well exhibited in hundreds and thousands of sacred shrines dotting the entire State. Temple worship is still a way of life, and traditions are meant to be followed here.
Tamil Nadu, the land of Tamils & Temples, has some of the most important pilgrim centers for all faiths and religions, flourishing here in complete harmony since time immemorial. This nature’s paradise has over 1000 kms. Long coastline dotted with some of the best beaches in the country. There are some excellent hill resorts, too, endowed with exceptional scenic beauty and bracing climate. It also has some of the finest wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. If this is not enough, experience the splendid festivals, the feast of Carnatic music and Bharata Natyam, the shimmering silk of Kanchipuram, and the most delicious South Indian Cuisine. A visit to this complete tourist destination is bound to be engraved in your mind forever.
For any doubts, feel free to ask on Quora, a social question-and-answer website.
Also, have a look at our various monthly issues.
Regards
Khushi Anand
by Khushi Anand
Flows of India
August 28, 2020 in Editorial
“More than one-half of the world’s major rivers are being seriously depleted and polluted, degrading and poisoning the surrounding ecosystems, thus threatening the health and livelihood of people who depend upon them for irrigation, drinking, and industrial water.”
– Ismail Serageldin,
Chairman of the World Commission on Water for the 21st Century.
My perspective of looking at nature is different from the rest of the world, while I observe many humans taking photos of nice clouds or rivers taking twists and turns, I mentally feel very peaceful and confident from inside. The fact that all these years, these rivers have been flowing like this and the clouds have been taking shapes makes me feel like they are the only constant thing around us, and no matter where we are or with whom, nature stays with us, and we should admire it by heart.
The theme of this month’s issue is to delve into the importance of water, the essential river systems of India, Flows of India, rivers as sustenance to communities and ecological systems, and as a source of inspiration for these communities that live along with them. Ironically, while following the course of India’s major rivers, a substantial portion of our daily budget was spent on buying bottled water!
While it is a known fact that the piety of Indians is legendary, one is often appalled at the lack of civic sense and insensitivity towards the environment. In India, places along the rivers suffer the most in terms of sanitation and cleanliness. Rivers have a self-cleaning ability, but if people continuously use them, they can o longer support life and progress. When we travel along with the Flows of India, we retrace the veins that sustained the great civilizations of modern India’s predecessors. Even today, rivers are the primary support systems of contemporary civilizations. Every one of the 1.21 billion people who live in India is directly or indirectly dependent on rivers for their sustenance. It is thus our moral responsibility to treat these water bodies with the respect they deserve.
As a concerned writer, I hope the representation will help change the destiny of these magnificent water bodies. By rousing collective conscience and consciousness, I hope to spark a debate. To claim that our special effort will result in cleaner rivers would be stretching the truth; however, I do hope that our efforts will contribute to a greater understanding of issues affecting India’s rivers.
For any doubts, feel free to ask on Quora, a social question-and-answer website.
Also, have a look at our various monthly issues.
Regards
Khushi Anand
by Khushi Anand
Visit Karnataka, it’s beautiful!
July 12, 2020 in Editorial, Karnataka
Charismatic Karnataka, the land of royal grandeur and oriental glory, is studded with architectural marvels, ancient sculptures, endless beaches, looming hill stations, pristine forests, and excellent game reserves. Kaveri, Tungabhadra, and Krishna, the three great rivers of the South, originate from the verdant ghats.
A changing pageant of cultures, customs, lifestyles, and religions has left its mark on this land. Its attractions are varied and diverting. Belur, Halebidu, and Hampi are known for their magnificent temples adorned with miniature carvings and are masterpieces to be marveled at. On the other hand, there are gigantic structures like the sculpture of the Jain sage Gomateswara at Sravanabelagola and the majestic Gol Gumbaz at Bijapur. In sharp contrast with the simplicity of the countryside are the grand palaces and beautiful gardens befitting this princely State and the splendor of festivals like Dassara. Karnataka is also a good base for adventure enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. It is a treasure trove of Exquisite handicrafts made in metal, stone, sandalwood, rosewood, and ivory. Moreover, it is equally famous for silks and scented oils.
For any doubts, feel free to ask on Quora, a social question-and-answer website.
Also, have a look at our various monthly issues.
Regards
Khushi Anand
by Khushi Anand
Himachal Pradesh, “The Land Of Snow”!
June 2, 2020 in Editorial, Himachal Pradesh
June is one the most desirable period to travel to Himachal Pradesh or any other hill station! However, Himachal Pradesh, “The Land Of Snow,” is the best one anyone would ever recommend to you.
Himachal Pradesh, or “The Land Of Snow,” is a veritable paradise endowed with great natural beauty and spiritual calm. The verdant valleys surrounded flowing placidly in the valleys, dense forests of decoder and oak, by lofty snow-capped peaks, roaring rivers rushing through gorges or flowering meadows, glaciers, and high altitude lakes brings an ethereal, otherworldly beauty at your doorsteps. No doubt, this ‘Himalayan Jewel’ is a tourist’s dream and delight.
After independence, 30 princely states of the area were united, and Himachal Pradesh was formed on 15th April 1948. With the re-organization of Punjab on 1st November 1966, certain areas belonging to it were also included in Himachal Pradesh. Finally, on 25th January 1971, Himachal Pradesh attained full-fledged statehood. The simple, peace-loving people of Himachal Pradesh are renowned for their honesty, tolerance, and hospitality. They are primarily Hindu by faith, and each village has its traditional deity. The State is dotted with thousands of temples and is also called the ‘Dev Bhoomi’ or the abode of gods. Himachal is also a land of colorful fairs and festivals that are unique in style and attractive in the display. The most important fairs are Minjar of Chamba, Shivratriof Mandi, Dussehra of Kullu, Lavi of Rampur, and Renuka of Sirmaur.
Himachal Pradesh, “The Land Of Snow,” also provides an excellent opportunity for adventure and fun-seekers and is considered an ideal place for activities like trekking, mountaineering, fishing, river rafting, skiing, para-gliding, ice-skating, and golf. A visit to this enchanting land is the most relaxing and satisfying experience.
For any doubts, feel free to ask on Quora, a social question-and-answer website.
Also, have a look at our various monthly issues.
Regards
Khushi Anand
by Khushi Anand
Let’s travel to Jammu & Kashmir!
May 26, 2020 in Editorial, Jammu and Kashmir
I kindly welcome y’all to another edition of our monthly magazine “Travel Viewpoint.” Well, Jammu & Kashmir, the state endowed with stunning natural beauty, is regarded as the ‘Crown’ of India as well as the Heart of Asia.’
Geographically and culturally, this northern-most State of the country can be divided into three distinct regions. The hilly plains of Jammu lie in the south, the high altitude desert region of Ladakh is in the north. And in the middle, like a dazzling jewel in the crown, is the mountainous valley of Kashmir.
The mountainous state is traversed by six mountain ranges the Shivalik, the Pir Panjal, the Great Himalayan, the Zanskar, the Ladakh, and the Karakoram. Three great rivers – Indus, Jhelum, Chenab, and Ravi, and several tributaries flow through the State. The lofty snow-clad mountains, verdant valleys, rampaging rivers, beautiful waterfalls, lovely lakes, lush green meadows, spectacular scenic beauty, ancient shrines, magnificent forts and palaces, and above all the beautiful people have made Jammu and Kashmir a paradise on earth and one of the most popular tourist destinations since time immemorial.
For any doubts, feel free to ask on Quora, a social question-and-answer website.
Also, have a look at our various monthly issues.
Regards
Khushi Anand
by Khushi Anand
Orissa is fun!
April 22, 2020 in Editorial, Odisha
What about having a tour of Orissa? Orissa, the land of Oriyas, earlier known as Kalinga, is flanked by the Eastern Ghats on the west and the Bay of Bengal on the East.
This ‘jewel of the east’ endowed with some of the great wonders of India’s cultural and natural heritage is still largely unexplored and untouched by modernity. Kalinga was a flourishing maritime kingdom with trading links to Java, Sumatra, Bali, and Indonesia. In 261 B.C., it was invaded and conquered by the Mauryan emperor, Ashoka. But, the spoils of war changed the heart of Ashoka, and he embraced Buddhism.
In essence, Orissa, a kaleidoscope of past splendors and contemporary expression, is India right down to her roots. Blessed with nature’s bounty, the State is known for its beautiful beaches, mountains teeming with wildlife, waterfalls, hot sulfur springs, and Chilika Lake. Sun Temple at Konark is a reason enough for a trip to India, like the Taj Mahal at Agra or Kailasa Temple at Ellora. The sacred city of Puri is considered one of the four holiest places, “Char Dhams,” and other ancient Hindu and Jain temples attract millions of pilgrims from all over the country.
Great traditional dances and music, exquisite handicrafts, temple architecture and sculpture, the colorful hospitable people, and above all, the excitement of modern India’s technological achievements in the form of Hirakud Dam and Raurkela Steel Plant are part of Orissa’s resplendent blend of past and present.
For any doubts, feel free to ask on Quora, a social question-and-answer website.
Also, have a look at our various monthly issues.
Regards
Khushi Anand
by Khushi Anand
Let’s Explore Goa!
March 31, 2020 in Editorial, Goa
March is just a perfect month for travelers as the weather is more likely to be warm, sunny, and dry. And what would be more fun-loving than Goa to visit?
Gorgeous Goa, the tiny tropical paradise tucked away on the western coast of the Indian Peninsula, is endowed with exceptional scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. Goa has lured mankind since time immemorial. It was referred to as Goyem’ by the ‘Mundaris,’ one of the oldest tribes in the world. The Aryans named it the Garden of Shepherds’, while the enraptured European travelers called it the Goa Dourada’ or the Golden Goa,’ ‘Perola do Oriente’ or the ‘Pearl of the Orient, Roma do Oriente’ or ‘Rome of the East and several other names in praise of this beautiful land. This former Portuguese enclave presents a rare blend of occidental and oriental cultures. The western influence is quite evident in various facets of the Goan lifestyle that abounds with Indian mythology.
Goa spells sun, sea, sand, and socegado (feelings of peace and fun). Its pristine beauty is quite inebriating. Everything is so special and unique that no visitor can escape the magical charm of Goa. With the coastline extending for about 125 kms. and a stretch of about 83 kms. of silvery palm-fringed beaches, the State has emerged as a virtual paradise for nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts.
The State is also dotted with ancient forts, ruins, mansions, churches, temples, tombs, etc. The numerous fairs and festivals and the weekly markets showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region. As one reaches this colorful State, what strikes you first is the easy-going, fun-loving, accessible, and tolerant Goan lifestyle. The impact of Portuguese rule is distinctly evident. Goans are very proud of their culture, and their love for music, dance, food, and festivities is legendary.
For any doubts, feel free to ask on Quora, a social question-and-answer website.
Also, have a look at our various monthly issues.
Regards
Khushi Anand
by Khushi Anand
Madhya Pradesh “The Heart Of India”
February 17, 2020 in Editorial, Madhya Pradesh
And yeah, February is undoubtedly a beautiful month to travel where ever you want! But to be very honest, traveling to Madhya Pradesh would be really fun.
Marvelous Madhya Pradesh, the many splendored lands, is set in the very heart of India. It envelopes you with the sense of a great past, as it bears the testimony of virtually all phases of Indian history. You can trace the glorious history through the majestic monuments that tell stories of empires and kingdoms, of warriors and builders, of poets and musicians, of saints and philosophers.
Madhya Pradesh resounds millions of memorable memories. The colorful history of the State is studded with the exploits of Emperor Ashoka, the Sungas. Chandragupta Vikramaditya, King Harsha, Raja Bhoj, the Chandela warriors, the Delhi Sultans, and the great Mughals.
Madhya Pradesh, “The Heart Of India,” is steeped in divinity and has been an eminent learning center. Madhya Pradesh is a state with natural grandeur. Its vast plateau is broken up by the mighty Vindhya and Satpura mountains and streaked by numerous rivers, including majestic Narmada, Chambal, Betwa, and Shipra rivers. The eastern plateau is densely Betwa forested, while in the west, the Malwa region is blessed with agricultural bounty with rich wheat and cotton crops. The State has some of the finest game reserves in Asia, with the most extensive wildlife in the country, ranging from big cats to exotic birds. It is also the land for the pleasure-seeking or those who are looking for solitude and tranquillity. Its retreats are delightful for quiet walks, trekking, and rock climbing.
For any doubts, feel free to ask on Quora, a social question-and-answer website.
Also, have a look at our various monthly issues.
Regards
Khushi Anand
by Khushi Anand
Let’s Explore New Year(s)
January 23, 2020 in Editorial
We are finally in 2020! Woah, a new decade!
This month I want you all to see how other countries celebrate the New Year. Every country is different in its way but what makes it similar is we all love to celebrate it with our desires and traditions!
People like celebrating New Year’s because it gives them a sense of positivity and enthusiasm about lots of new beginnings, and a chance to celebrate making it through another of 365 days! Sliding into a new year with a bang makes us want to live the rest of the year the way we started it— with warmth, celebrations, joy, and laughter.
Moreover, it’s a chance to officially take pride in our accomplishments and make our non-successes a thing of the past, rejoice time spent well and make plans to make up for time lost, value new relationships built and say goodbye to the ones broken, and most importantly, celebrate and embrace the persons we have been this past year.
Anything you love to do, that makes you happy, is a celebration— be it spending the day with loved ones, a day in bed with your favorite movie on, or partying hard with friends!
I wish you a new year loaded with happiness!
For any doubts, feel free to ask on Quora, a social question-and-answer website.
Also, have a look at our various monthly issues.
Regards
Khushi Anand
by Khushi Anand
“Padharo Mhare Desh”
December 13, 2019 in Editorial, Rajasthan
“Padharo Mhare Desh” or “Welcome to my country” reverberating through this land of chivalry and romance is just not a welcome call or a greeting but is the spirit of Rajasthan. A land where the guest is considered next to god and even enemies are given due regard on its soil, still holds on to its rich traditions and promises to be the most hospitable and fascinating land a visitor has ever seen. The legendary land strewn with tales of valor and sacrifices is a fantastic assortment of history, culture, traditions, natural beauty, wildlife, and friendly folks. It is indeed a land of paradoxes and has an unusual diversity in all its forms-people, customs, culture, costumes, music, manners, dialects, cuisine, and physiography.
The beautiful landscape varies from golden sand dunes to lush forests and lofty peaks to fertile plains and is littered with formidable forts, magnificent palaces sprawling Havelis, sacred shrines, graceful gardens, lovely lakes, and exotic wildlife. With a history of over five thousand years and origins shrouded in mythological legends, the State is literally a treasure house of history and archaeology. No doubt every town is studded with formidable forts and magnificent palaces, which have been silent sentinels to the region’s turbulent past. The numerous ancient shrines and cenotaphs are seen all over the State confirm the deep-rooted religious faiths of the people of Rajasthan and their respect for the departed souls.
The benevolent rulers of Rajasthan were great lovers and patrons of arts and crafts. The Rajasthani handicrafts are matchless in concept, color, and craftsmanship.
The State is also well known for its rhythmic folk dances and music. The haunting music from the desert has become immensely popular. The festival time is full of life and zest. The ambiance acquires a fairytale-like atmosphere. Colorfully dressed women wear beautiful jewelry while men put on exotic turbans. The delectable cuisine is yet another attraction of the State. A large variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes can be tried out at the traditional restaurants of the State. Dal, Batti, and Churma have become household names.
For any doubts, feel free to ask on Quora, a social question-and-answer website.
Also, have a look at our various monthly issues.
Regards
Khushi Anand
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