History of Pondicherry
History of Pondicherry
According to
mythology Pondicherry was once the abode of Agastya the great Hindu sage. Excavation at Arikamedu suggests that
Pondicherry was a major port and trading center which
imported Roman goods on large scale. The excavation also revealed that the
place had the trading relation with Greece which continued till 10th
century when the region was under the rule of Cholas dynasty.
During the
16th century Pondicherry witnessed the arrival of Portuguese who
ruled the region for the next some years. Thereafter Dutch and French came
there for trading purposes. In 1663 French started to rule the region. It was
French who ruled Pondicherry for the longest time. There were several minor
battles between French and British over the land of Pondicherry. These
conflicts came to an end after an agreement was signed between them. According
to the agreement Pondicherry remained under the control of French who continued
to rule it until 1954 when Pondicherry was annexed to the Indian republic. At
present Pondicherry is one of seven union territories of India. Owing to the
long rule of French, influence of their culture can still be seen in
Pondicherry.
Tag :
Historical,
Fair and Festival in Kozhikode
Kozhikode also known as Calicut is a major city in the Indian state Kerala and attractes travellers with its charming physical features and prosperity from the many years.Cultural festivals like Malabar Mahotsavm and Thyagaraja Festival is conducted every year. Professional artists as well as students of music participate and enjoy these music festivals. Highlights musical concerts and performances of various classical dances. Calicut has a great history of Film making also, some of the main Malayalam film companies are Grihalakshmi Productions, Kalpaka, and Swargachithra etc. The place also has a well developed print as well as television media network. Another important festival of the city is celebrated as the Temple Festival of Ravathy Pattathanam which is annually held at Thali Temple for seven days during the Malayalam month of Thulam. As an important part of the festival an intellectual debate of celebrated Vedic scholars is organized during this festival.
Tag :
Indian Festivals,
Fairs and Festivals in Manali
Manali is famous hill station of Himachal Pradesh. It is situated in the Kullu district and is known for its vibrant culture and traditions. Fairs and festivals celebrated in Manali form an integral part of the rich culture of the people. Along with major national festivals Manali also celebrates other regional fairs and festivals with much enthusiasm. Manali celebrates Dussera festival with great zeal and zest. Though the festival of Dussera is celebrated in almost every parts of the country, the celebration of the festival in Manali and Kullu district is quite distinct from the rest parts of India. Here celebration of the festival is weeklong affair and begins on the day of Vijayadashami which serves to be another name of Dussera and is the last day of the celebration of the festival in other parts of the country.
Pipal Jatra also called as Vasantotsav is another major festival celebrated in Manali with much pomp and show. Celebration of the festival includes folk dance, songs and other cultural activities. Shamshi Virshu is another significant festival celebrated in Manali with much fanfare. The festival falls on the 13th April every year and contains various ceremonial and cultural activities. The beautiful town of Manali also witnesses another major cultural event in the form of Mela Bhuntar. It is religious congregation hosted at Bhuntar hamlet near Manali. The fair is attended by thousands of people from far and wide.
Tag :
Indian Festivals,
Festivals of Hubli
Hubli celebrates almost all festivals of India. Ganesh Chaturthi, Deepawali, Navaratra, Ugadi, and Eid, are the important festivals to be celebrated in a year for the Indians. Among them the Ganesh Chaturthi would get more attention. Ganesh Pandals would be erected at every corner of the city, and the immersing of Ganesha procession attracts a huge crowd.
The Lingayats dominate most of Hubli area; therefore, festivals related to their leader Basaveshwara gain much importance. Basava Jayanti is one such festival. Festivals in Hubli come up with unique kitchen delicacies such as Laddoo, Holige, Karjikayi, and Mandige.
Hubli-Dharwad belt is well known for Hindustani classical music. Many exponents of music have brought fame to the city such as Pandit Sawai Gandharva, Basavaraj Rajguru, Bhimsen Joshi, Mallikarjun Mansur and Gangubayi Hangal. In the memory of Pandit Sawai Gandharva there would be a Music Festival held at Kundgol –a village near Hubli.
Tag :
Indian Festivals,
Culture of Amritsar
The Culture of Amritsar
The culture of Amritsar is
predominantly a typical Punjabi culture. Besides being the highest seat of Sikh
religion the city is known to have nourished the Punjabi Poetry. In the Pre-Independence
period the city had witnessed the presence of both the Hindu and Muslim
cultures, but after the partition the city was in turmoil due to communal
clashes. The city of Amritsar is a jewel in the crown of Sikh tradition. The
Golden temple would be visited by thousands of devotees and tourists every day.
Therefore the city witnesses an influx of ideas from all over the word. It is
the center of the Majha region in Punjab.
The city is dominated by the Punjabi
Sikhs and the Jat community. The Punjabis
are a robust built, simple minded, friendly people. The main occupation is
agriculture, trade and weaving; most of them serve in the Indian Army. Most of them are staunch devotees of Sikhism. Punjabis
are often identified with their dance (Bhangra), music and the cuisine. Silk lungi,
short and a scarf is the traditional attire for men and Salwar Kameez is for
the women. Bhangra is the famous dance associated with Punjabi culture. Wheat
is their staple food. Sarson ka Sag, Makki ka Roti, Pinni, and importantly the
Lassi (flavored buttermilk) comprise of their cuisine. The Punjabi cuisine has
become very popular all across India.
The city of Amritsar is a center for
Punjabi language and literature. Despite being vulnerable to communal clashes
the city caters for all cultural interests due to the presence of the Golden
temple. The temple has devotees from all sects. The city provides for a secular ambience.
Tag :
Indian Festivals,
History of Amritsar
The History of Amritsar
The holy city Amritsar is in Punjab. It
is known for the famous Golden temple (also known as the Harmandir Sahib)
amidst a pool of water (Amrit Sarovar). The proper city was founded during the
early 16th century by Guru Ram Das. Now it is a major center for
Sikh tradition. It is just 29 km away from the Wagha Border.
The historians trace the origins of
the city back to the period of Indus civilization. The region was a part of the
Indus valley settlements. It is a disputed factor however. Around third century
BC this area was administered by Alexander the Great. Later the Mauryans
acquired the land as it is believed now and was ruled by the Gupthas and
Kushans also. Around tenth century, the region came under the influence of
Muslim rulers such as the Lodhi dynasty and the Mughals.
The construction of the Amritsar city
began during the early part of the 15th and the 16th
centuries. The region witnessed a strong Sikh influence and thus the Forth Sikh
Guru Ram Das took the construction project. Guru Ram das was appointed to build
a township near Santoksar tank by his Guru Amar Das (The Third Guru). The
township was built and was named as Santoksar. Later, Guru Amar Das assigned a
second township project that which is the present day Amritsar. The present day lake (the pool of nectar) has
been excavated and reconstructed with the help of thousands of volunteers and
paid laborers. The expansion of the township took place in the later periods by
the initiation of Sikh Gurus. A temple was built amidst the pool of nectar and
the Sikh Scripture the Guru Granth Sahib was placed inside the Darbar Sahib in
1604. The city was under numerous attacks by the Mughals and the tragic
Jallianwala Bagh massacre took place in the same city by General Dyer. In the
year 1984 the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi forcefully evacuated thousands
of Sikh militants from the Golden temple under ‘Operation Blue Star’. As a
result the city had witnessed riots and deaths in massive number. Now, the city
of Amritsar has resumed normalcy and is a secured place to visit.
Tag :
Historical,
Culture of Jodhpur
Culture of
Jodhpur
Jodhpur is popularly called as Blue City of Rajasthan as most
of the houses around Mehrangarh Fort are painted in blue color. Jodhpur is the
second largest city of Rajasthan sate. Rajasthan state is known for its rich
culture and traditions. Jodhpur being a part of the state is no exception to
it. The people of Jodhpur are among the most hospitable people in India.
Tourist visiting the city will be flattered by their warm welcome and friendly
nature. Marwari is the widely spoken language of the region. Hindi and Rajasthani
are also spoken by many people there.
Some people involved in tourism related work are also fluent in English
and can be found speaking the language especially at tourist places in the
city. Most of the people of the city of
Jodhpur follow the Hindu religions while the people of other religions like
Muslim and Jain are also found there though in few numbers.
People of Jodhpur are famous for their lovely traditional
costumes. Wide gathered Ghgara (skirt), long jacket with its sleeve covering
the forearms and multiple jewelries serves as the traditional attire of women.
Colorful turban worn by men of Jodhpur is just another aspect of Jodhpur
culture. Fascinating folk dance and songs of the region also form the integral part
of vibrant culture of Jodhpur. Festival and fairs celebrated in the city
provide an opportunity to the tourists to watch closely the rich culture and
traditions of Jodhpur.
Tag :
Indian Festivals,
History of Jodhpur
History of
Jodhpur
The city of Jodhpur
which is known by different names like Sun City and Blue City is a popular
tourist destination in Rajasthan. Jodhpur,
a formerly capital place of princely state of Marwar, is the second largest
city of Rajasthan after the city of Jaipur. Rao Jodha a Rajput chief of Rathore
clan is credited for the foundation of Jodhpur city in 1459 AD. Earlier the
region was under the rule of Baraguja king. Rao Jodha conquered the surrounding
region and established the state named as Marwar. Mandore served as the earlier
capital of Marawar and later on Jodhpur
was made the capital place of the state. Jodhpur city gets its name after the
name of its founder Rao Jodha. Jodhpur
was strategically located on Gujarat-Delhi and served as important center for
the flourishing trade of opium, sandal, coffee and silk which earned it a good
profit.
Rathores were on good terms with the Mughal emperors except
Aurangzeb. Jodhpur was the largest land area in entire Rajputana under the rule
of British. Jodhpur witnessed stability and large scale development during
British rule. After the independence of India in Aug-1947, Jodhpur was annexed
to the Indian republic. Later on in 1956 Jodhpur came under Rajasthan state. Post
independence era witnessed the city of Jodhpur growing into a big city of the
state. Jodhpur has also come to be known as one of the most favorite tourist
destinations in India.
Tag :
Historical,
Cuture of Patna
Patna located in Bihar state of India is a historically old city dating back to Vedic times. Though the geographically the city is located in Magadh region of the state, The Buddhist,Hindu,and Jain pilgrims centres of Vaishali, Rajgir, Bodhgaya are nearby Patna. The residents of Patna are also from other four regions of Bihar (Bhojpur, Mithila, Vajj and Ang), But due to intermarriages and intermixing among each other nowadays it is difficult to isolate one from the other. The family orientation is Patna is essentially religion based. The people are generally family based where family interest is always individual interest. People generally have large family, though now family planning is propagated to contain population. Many talented people have migrated elsewhere for better openings. Marriages in Patna are generally arranged ones. Marriage time is generally celebration time for all. Bright clothing Jewellery and flowers are essential part in a marriage. It is a most enjoyable time for everybody with big celebrations, big expenses and great feasting. Staple food of Patna is Khichdi served with Curd, Chutney, Pickles, Papad, Ghee and Cohkha (boiled mashed and seasoned potatoes). Other delicacies of Patna are Khaja, Motichoor Ka Ladoo, Kala Jamun, Kesri peda etc. paan of Patna are also famous. There are many shopping malls in Patna.
Tag :
Indian Festivals,
Culture of Mangalore
Mangalore is an important city of the state of Karnataka. Majority of the people living in the city are Hindu followed by Muslim and Christian. Mangalore is considered to be a multicultural city. Tulu, Kannada, Konkani, English and Urdu are widely spoken languages of the city. Colorful and vibrant culture of the people of the city is mostly highlighted in their various festivals, folk arts, handicrafts, cuisines etc. Along with the major festival like Deepawali, Dussera and holi the city of Mangalore celebrates Id-ul-fitr and Christmas with equal zest and zeal. Apart from these festivals there are some regional festivals and other cultural events which offer the occasions where one can have close look into the traditional customs and rituals of the people of Mangalore.
Cuisines of Mangalore are dominated by the south Indian dishes. The city of Mangalore houses a number of restaurants serving wide varieties of sea food dishes. Neer Dosa, Patrode, Akki Roti are some of the famous local dishes visitors like most on their trip to Mangalore city. Vegetarian cuisine in Mangalore, also known as Udupi cuisine, is known and liked throughout the state and region. Beautiful handicrafts of Mangalore are famous in the city. Articles made from woods, ivory and stone can be seen purchased by the visitors. Folk dance and songs mainly performed on the occasion of the festivals give Mangalore culture a vibrant look.
Tag :
Indian Festivals,
Culture of Manali
Manali Culture
The beautiful hill town of Manali boasts of having rich and
colorful traditions. Unique traditional customs, rituals, festivals and
ceremonies form the rich culture of the people of Manali. Manali has been home
to many aboriginal tribes since ancient times. Different ethnic communities of
Manali are found practicing different social and religious customs. Kinnaur
community is one of most prominent indigenous groups in Manali. This ethnic group
is known for treating the two sexes of the society equally. Equal division of
labor between man and woman can be seen in Kinnaur ethnic community of Manali. Gujjar
is another prominent tribe of the region.
Manali is famous for
its traditional arts and crafts made by the diverse ethnic groups of the
region. Folk dance and songs also form a vital part of the culture of the
valley. Various kinds of folk arts of different tribes give the culture of
Manali a distinct and vibrant look. These folk arts are performed by these
tribes on special occasions like festivals and other cultural events. The people
of Manali usually prefer to wear their traditional attires which are mainly
spun out of the wool.
Cuisines of Manali are
dominated by the crops that are mainly produced in the region. Rice, maiz,
Kodra and salyara are major crops of the region and are largely used in various
food dishes of Manali. Patrodu, Bhatora and Vada are some of the food dishes
prepared for special occasions like festivals, wedding ceremonies etc. Milk
based recipes dominate the food culture in Manali. Festivals and fairs
celebrated by the people of Manali also serve the occasions for the tourists to
witness the various facets of vibrant culture and traditions followed by the diverse
indigenous tribes of Manali.Tag :
Indian Festivals,
History of Manali
Manali
History
Manali is a beautiful
hill station in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. The town of Manali has
its references in several Hindu scriptures. According to myths after the great
flood which devastated whole of the world, a Hindu sage called Manu landed on
the earth at Manali to recreate the human life. Thus the region where he had landed
came to be known as Manu -Alaya which literally means the abode of Manu. Manali
is the changed name of Manu-Alaya. Old town of Manali also houses a temple
dedicated to Manu.
Modern history of Manali goes back to the time of the British
rule. It was British who transformed this pastoral land into a beautiful hill
station. British in India made Manali
their summer resort. They found the climate of Manali conducive to produce
apples and therefore they planted there apple orchards on large scale. Under
the rule of British Manali witnessed a large scale development. After the
independence of India, Manali was further developed as a beautiful tourist
spot. At present Manali is among the most preferred tourist destinations in
India.
Tag :
Historical,
Culture of Patna
Patna located in Bihar state of India is a historically old city dating back to Vedic times. Though the geographically the city is located in Magadh region of the state, The Buddhist,Hindu,and Jain pilgrims centres of Vaishali, Rajgir, Bodhgaya are nearby Patna.The residents of Patna are also from other four regions of Bihar (Bhojpur, Mithila, Vajj and Ang), But due to intermarriages and intermixing among each other nowadays it is difficult to isolate one from the other. The family orientation is Patna is essentially religion based. The people are generally family based where family interest is always individual interest.
People generally have large family, though now family planning is propagated to contain population. Many talented people have migrated elsewhere for better openings. Marriages in Patna are generally arranged ones. Marriage time is generally celebration time for all. Bright clothing Jewellery and flowers are essential part in a marriage. It is a most enjoyable time for everybody with big celebrations, big expenses and great feasting. Staple food of Patna is Khichdi served with Curd, Chutney, Pickles, Papad, Ghee and Cohkha (boiled mashed and seasoned potatoes). Other delicacies of Patna are Khaja, Motichoor Ka Ladoo, Kala Jamun, Kesri peda etc. paan of Patna are also famous. There are many shopping malls in Patna.
Tag :
Indian Festivals,
Culture of Gwalior
Culture of Gwalior
Gwalior has a
rich cultural heritage. It is near Agra and a part of Bundelkhand. The city with its historical monuments (forts and
royal mansions) reflects a blend of Bundelkhand culture and Braj cultures. Bundelkhand
signifies a cultural region comprising of a larger part of Madhya Pradesh. Some part of it is even spread over Uttar Pradesh. The area was ruled by
the Chedi rulers and is known for its folk culture. Braj comprises some part of
the Uttar Pradesh State (Agra, Mathura, and Bharatpur). Braj culture is associated with Krishna cult. Gwalior comes under
Bundelkhand region. But, the present day culture has been a mixture of the Braj
and Bundelkhand culture. Hindi is the main spoken language here.
This fusion of culture could be seen
through the prevailing art and activities of the region. Folk dance and music
have been a part of Gwalior. Gwalior is the home for the Gwalior Gharana and
the Drupad Gharana of music. Tansen, one of the Nine Jewels who adorned the
Royal court of Akbar was buried here. He was a great singer. The tomb of Tansen
is a tourist spot in Gwalior. Another singer of much fame Baiju Bawra also
lived here during the Tomar rule.
Ahiri dance (practiced by the
followers of Krishna), Baredi dance of Bundelkhand, Saharia dance, Dul- Dul
Gori dance are some of the popular folk dances that is being practiced in
Gwalior. The area has given birth to two folk poets namely Jagnik and Ghag. Recently,
in 2005 a local sculptor named Aasutosh Panigrahi won international acclaim for
his mural design by the Guinness book of World records.
The cuisine of Gwalior is mainly a
mixture of Marathi and Mughal flavors. Morena Gajak (a sweet made of sesame
seeds and sugar), and Moong Dal ki Halwa are the main sweet dishes to be tried
in Gwalior.
Tag :
Indian Festivals,