Destination Wedding In Delhi: A Magnificiant Place to Celebrate Your Big Day

April 8, 2022

Would you like to celebrate your wedding traditionally, in a banquet hall, among hundreds of guests? How about a new trend — a destination wedding in some exotic place? An interesting and non-standard wedding celebration can be organized in one of the most delightful places in the world — India. Such a ceremony in the spirit of adventure will not lose its romantic atmosphere, it will charge you with vivid emotions and colorful memories for the rest of your family life. And with the help of ancient Indian traditions, you can find harmony in your relationships.

Unique Experience

Destination-Wedding-In-Delhi-02 — Image – mywed.com

A distinctive feature of weddings in India is the splendor of the solemn procession and the observance of many ceremonies. We offer to consider following the most popular of them.

Wear wedding attire of incredible beauty — a colorful sari for the bride and a turban, a Sherwani jacket, and churidar trousers for the groom. These garments cannot be replaced by the usual puffy snow-white dress and classic suit.

Another great tradition is Mehndi, which is the application of henna patterns. Usually, the bride’s hands are decorated with complex drawings, which mean strong feelings, and the shade that appears, yellow, brick or black, predicts further family life.

According to Indian rules, the newlyweds must come to the wedding venue separately. The time spent on the ceremony is directly determined by the number of rites chosen. Among the obligatory customs, it should be mentioned that the bride and groom should exchange their wedding garlands. It symbolizes the gift of one’s own heart. The ceremony is followed by spectacular rituals with fire, and after that, the brahmin reads mantras over the newlyweds. Where else can you get such an experience?

Cost-Effective two-in-one: wedding trip plus celebration

The expenses for organizing a wedding celebration provided by a travel agency make up a wide range. This cost includes the organization of the wedding ceremony, pre-wedding preparations, costume rental, payment for the services of musicians, transportation costs, and more. Maybe, a wedding celebration lasting three days for a narrow circle of friends and family will cost you less than organizing a celebration for a hundred guests in your hometown. You can take package marriage deals from wedding hotels and save some money.

A Family Trip

Destination-Wedding-In-Delhi-03 — Image Courtesy – mywed.com

It can be a wedding event for two or a narrow circle with the close members of both families. If crowds of guests make you sad, and your dreams are only about romance and solitude, then celebrating a wedding celebration in India is perfect for you. And to show respect for loved ones, it is enough to organize the usual registration at the registry office at the place of residence, where you can invite relatives, colleagues and friends. And then you will fly away from daily worries and spend some quality time with your new family exploring tourist attractions and getting to know new family members better.

Bringing Families Closer

Where else you can get such a chance to introduce the groom’s parents to the bride’s parents? They can walk together down the crowded Connaught Place and Main Bazar, and explore the largest historical monument in Old Delhi — The Red Fort. Shared memories of unforgettable trips will bring two families together.

Closer to Culture

Destination-Wedding-In-Delhi-04 — Image Courtesy – mywed.com

An Indian wedding is a real carnival of colors and a riot of bright colors. The Hindu wedding is accompanied by many interesting traditions and rituals. Indian people regard marriage as the most important event in the life of a man and a woman. They believe that on this day the souls of spouses merge into one for seven future lives. The customs, which to this day play one of the main roles in the life of Indian people, are truly unique. They may seem at first glance strange and inexplicable, even frightening, but this is not at all the case if you look a little closer.

It is this unquestioning faith in the power of traditions and adherence to the centuries-old rules of marriage that make weddings in India a real cultural phenomenon: having once visited such a celebration, it is impossible to forget it, let alone to be the main heroes of it.

Destination-Wedding-In-Delhi-05 — Image Courtesy – mywed.com

To make your ceremony even brighter, you can order more services, reflecting traditional customs. For example, walking on elephants, musical accompaniment, conducting the custom of “7 steps” and “gifts to the god of fire.” The service of some hotels also includes paid festive fireworks.

If you really follow all local traditions, then after the event you will be given a certificate that confirms that you are husband and wife according to the Hindu religion.

An exotic and unforgettable wedding celebration strictly observes the covenants of the ancestors, while surprisingly combining them with modern trends. You can be part of a typical ceremony in India and the modern banquet that follows it, which cannot even be imagined without incendiary dances and delicious treats.

Delightful Photographs

Destination-Wedding-In-Delhi-06 — Image Courtesy – mywed.com

A wedding photo session in India can be very beautiful. Exotic nature, ancient monuments, temples, palaces and sights will be the perfect backdrop for wedding photography. They will bring to it an exotic color and atmosphere, which cannot be obtained in a modern metropolis. You can find examples of photography from weddings in India or look through portfolios of local wedding photographers in Delhi. Surely, they know all the great spots and, hiring them, you can get photos of a true Indian wedding.

Why Delhi?

Destination-Wedding-In-Delhi-07 — Image Courtesy – mywed.com

The gigantic metropolis combines the incompatible: many different beliefs, cultural heritages, ancient rituals and modern trends. Big cities gradually reduce the influence of long-standing ceremonies and ingrained opinions. Therefore, the union of young people for love in Delhi is becoming more common. But no one completely abandons the heritage, and wedding ceremonies are still held here in national attire, with Brahmin and ancient rites.

One of the wonders of the world and a world cultural heritage is located here — the Taj Mahal mausoleum, a monument to the eternal feeling of love. You will simply be speechless by visiting this place. Graceful architecture, magnificent patterns and stucco will not leave anyone indifferent. According to legend, to confess feelings on the temple steps is to a long love, the same as that of its creator.

More and more couples choose to spend the most important event of their lives abroad. The main reason for this is the desire to make the wedding really unusual, original and memorable. As for the cost, the wedding ceremony itself abroad and preparation for it can cost a relatively small amount, but photographs and memories will be precious.

Folk Dances of Jharkhand – True Essence of Folk Culture

Eesani Dey

April 6, 2022

Jharkhand is a kaleidoscopic land of culture. The land is a beautiful coexistence of natural wonders along with the people who inhabit it. Culture of Jharkhand is rich with the influence of different civilizations, various ways of life, traditions, and much more. This article will discuss a particular aspect of Jharkhand’s culture, i.e., folk dances of Jharkhand. Folk dance is a primitive attribute of India, and the different states of India boast about their contribution to India’s vast arena of folk culture.

Jharkhand houses various tribal groups. The tribals’ way of living is deeply connected with nature. The folk culture of the tribals is one of the main attractions of Jharkhand. The folk songs and folk dances of Jharkhand have a unique history.

Without further ado, let us find out in detail about the various folk dances of Jharkhand. These dances have their stories and significance that make them a part of the rich folk culture of India.

Jhumair

Jhumair is one of the most famous folk dances of Jharkhand. The dance is significant for its relation to the harvest season. Jhumair is a popular folk dance celebrating the happy life of the tribal folks of Jharkhand.

The dance takes place in the formation of a human chain. Men mostly dance, and the dancers themselves sing the melodious tune accompanying the dance. The dancers move along in a circular shape all the time, holding each other’s hands. Jhumair is a treat for the eye. The colorful costumes are bright and enhance the mood of the performance. Musical instruments are also a vital part of the dance. Dhol, Kartal, bansuri, and sangi provide the tune to sway along in this folk dance.

Jhumair is sometimes performed by women also. When women dance the Jhumair, the name of the folk dance changes to Janani Jhumair, another form of Jhumair is called Mardana Jhumair. This version has a touch of martial arts in its moves.

Chhau Dance

Chhau dance is one of the most famous folk dances of India. The dance is renowned for its powerful moves and distinctive mask that is a quintessential part of Chhau. Jharkhand’s neighboring states Odisha and West Bengal, are also famous for indulging in the Chhau dance.

Chhau dance takes place in an open field, primarily at night time. Etymologically Chhau comes from the Sanskrit word Chhaya which means shadow, image, shade, or mask. The main attraction of the Chhau dance is the mask that the dancers wear during the performance. The performers are both men and women who display strength through their powerful and bold dance moves. The dance dress is colorful, but the mask with its expressive, detailed work takes the spotlight. The different mask represents different characters, even figures of Gods. Chhau is also called nrithya natika, which means dance drama. The highly engaging music, rhythm, and beats accompanying the dance create a dramatic ambiance, especially with the field’s lanterns. The dance often falls in the description of to attack or hunt, adding to its dramatic effect.

Chhau is a very traditional folk dance of Jharkhand and its neighboring states. The dance is not particular to any festival but is a part of every happy occasion. Different states have specific names for Chhau dance.

Paika

Paika is a unique dance form that is a combination of martial arts with other local dance steps. It is a dance form that requires male participation.

The dance is exciting to behold. The dance has a high degree of martial arts that involves a lot of risks. Paikas originally were a group of soldiers serving and protecting the kingdom. The Paika dance is a ceremonial dance in which physical excitement and inner courage highlight the performance. The dancers wear colorful attires with a sword in one hand and a shield in the other. Headgears and chest plates are worn as safety measures. The entire attire of the dancers and the build-up to the performance lead to the ambiance of the preparation of war. The dance steps and the martial arts are a replica of the move soldiers perform on the battlefield.

The music of this folk dance comes from the instruments of dhak, shehnai, and narsingh. The upbeat music and the bold dance moves are a joy to behold. In present days, Paika performances take place at weddings and during festive seasons. Another significant interpretation of the dance is to welcome special guests and during religious processions.

Domkach

Domakch is a folk dance that is a part of the wedding rituals. Mostly the women take part in this dance while going in the baraat from the bridegroom’s house.

Domkach is an energetic and happy folk dance. The music accompanying the dance is equally enthusiastic. The women participating in the hop sing themselves. The lyrics of the song are very satirical. They crack jokes while moving around in circles. Both the women and men dress up in their colorful dresses. They all form a semi-circle while holding each other’s hand and sway along to the lively music. This wedding folk dance keeps up the high spirit of the families.

Domkach is popular in Bihar and Jharkhand. In Bihar, it is popular in Mithila and Bhojpur regions. In Jharkhand, it is also known as the Nagpuri folk dance.

Karam Dance

Karam dance’s name comes from the sacred tree Kadamba. People believe the Kadamba tree to be the harbinger of prosperity and good luck.

The Karam dance symbolizes the worship and planting of the Kadamba tree. The dancers, men and women, form a circle with their hands around each other’s waist. They pass a branch of the Kadamba tree while swaying to the rhythm. Once a circle passing the Kadamba branch is complete, they wash the branch with rice and milk. They believe that the branch must not touch the ground after these rituals are done. After one round, they once again start passing the branch amongst themselves.

People organize the Karam dance in August. The planting of the auspicious tree brings a lot of faith in the people.

Hunta Dance

Hunta dance is the hunting dance of the Santhals of the hilly plateaus of the Chotanagpur area. The dance is a symbol of showcasing the strength, unity, and pride of the Santhals.

Both men and women participate in this dance. They attire themselves in colorful costumes, and they synchronize the color of their dresses, and their dance moves very uniquely. The men wear dhoti and turban, and the women wear their traditional saree. They all accessorize themselves with branches, leaves, and flowers. The Santhals are very close to nature, and their dresses also represent their beliefs. The Hunta dance moves depict the stance of preparing for the hunt.

The Hunta dance is a representation of the Santhals’ way of living. The dance involves mime, slow and decisive steps, and measured movements, and these features are distinctive of this ancient tribal dance.

Phagua Dance

Phagua dance is another popular folk dance of Jharkhand, and the dance is an integral part of the festival of Holi.

The festival of Holi is in itself vivacious. The Phagua dance adds more enthusiasm to the colorful occasion. Only men took part in the dance earlier. In recent times, both men and women have taken part in this dance. The dancers freely move along to the lilting tune of the instruments. Mandar, dhol, and bansi are the main instruments of the Phagua dance. The dancers throw gulaal and colored water at each other.

The name of the Phagua dance comes from Falgun, the onset of Spring. The festival of Holi, along with the Phagua dance, marks the start of the festive seasons.

These folk dances of Jharkhand are also popular in its neighboring states. The tribal communities of Jharkhand try to keep the history of their culture alive with these dances. People take part in these dances enthusiastically. Visitors from across the nation and from different countries take a keen interest in these folk dances. Once you witness these dances, it is hard to stop yourself from swaying to the tunes of the instruments and joining hands with the performers.

What Are The Benefits of Museums in Preserving History and Heritage?

Cscope Staff

March 31, 2022

Benefits of Museums in Preserving History — Great Konark Wheel and Indus Valley Civilization – Science and Technology Heritage of India Gallery – Science Exploration Hall – Science City – Kolkata – Wikimedia

‘A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots’ – Marcus Gravey

Often people neglect the importance of knowing and understanding history. Deemed as sometimes boring and unnecessary it is flipped aside as an appendage, as all eyes are set for the future. Yet, the wise understand that knowing the past is the fundamental bedrock on which the future is built. And though there are many ways of recognizing and learning about the past, museums play a crucial role in preserving history and heritage.

Museums – The Preservers of History

What is a museum? It is defined as ‘a building or institution that cares for and displays a collection of artifacts and other objects of artistic, cultural, historical or scientific importance.’ (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Museum)

The definition itself presents a wide scope of credit that museums must be given for preserving history. And Indian history undoubtedly, is one of the richest and varied histories of the world. But history comes in different forms. It could be through art, culture, science or natural objects. History can be understood through esteemed facets, such as paintings, carvings, documents, and weaponry. At the same time it can also be seen through the prism of daily objects, such as clothing, pots and pans, toys, cutlery and more. Either way history or heritage is preserved through tangible articles and it is a museum that houses these.

Musing Over Museums

While a museum always finds itself marked as an attractive tourist destination for any place, it is perhaps not visited with as much enthusiasm. However, the world over, museums have garnered momentum by designing and aligning themselves to provide a holistic experience to its visitors. The Museum of Art & Photography, situated in Bengaluru includes not only art galleries, but also an art and research library, an education center, a conversation lab and much more.

Similarly, museums in India are waking up to their true worth and value. Also, considering the physical and cultural landscape of the country, it is imperative that each region has its own unique local histories and heritages that merge into the larger national perspective. And hence, as repositories of Indian history and heritage, why do we think museums are beneficial?

Benefits of Museums

Government-Museum-Chennai — Interior view – National Museum, New Delhi – Wikimedia

There are a number of benefits of museums. They are the providers of authentic and trusted knowledge. While igniting curiosity, museums are a perfect reflection of what one learns in history books. Reading about the Harappan civilization is essential, but imagine complementing that knowledge with being able to see relics from the same age. From teaching critical thinking, social tolerance and cultural significance, museums are one of the best ways to educate children and adults.

However, the role of museums in the preservation of history and heritage is paramount. The Museum of Art & Photography, for example, has a collection of over 18,000 works of art dating from the 10th century to the present, and the Museum also undertakes the preservation and conservation of its artifacts. Art from across South Asia showcases the historical significance and expression across and over time and over different geographic regions.

Preservation of History and Heritage

Benefits-of-Museums-in-Preserving-History-and-Heritage — Rishabhantika Ardhanari, Chennai Museum – Badri Seshadri

There are many ways to preserve the past. And museums, such as the Museum of Art & Photography, as well as many others across the world are able to do so in myriad ways.

Documenting the daily

One of the easiest ways to preserve history and heritage is to document the daily happenings. Cultures are disappearing at an alarming rate with the growth of urbanization and modernization. And hence keeping a record of the lifestyle, beliefs and traditions of these cultures is a sure shot way of preserving them for posterity. Rituals, food, art, music, architecture etc. find place in museums. And such artifacts are a clear reflection of the daily life and culture of people in specific regions or cultures or time.

An alternative perspective

Museums have collections that are not specific to a single perspective. History can get biased when viewed from a single lens. It could be through art or books or music written by a set of groups or sub-groups. However, there are always differing opinions and sides. And it is in museums that all perspectives find a place.

Recording events

Just as documenting the daily or routine traditions, the recording of major events in history is also important. Wars, famines, calamities or landmarks of prosperity and wealth etc. are highlights that are also influenced by spatial and temporal heritages. The establishment of new eras or the fall of kingdoms also affects the local cultural nuances. For example, Persian techniques in art were introduced when the Mughals arrived. Similarly, the overlap and influences of cultures is also captured through historical references, such as art, music, food etc.

Education on culture

Datei:Coin Gallery – Indian Museum – Kolkata – Wikimedia

Museums are a perfect platform for education. The displays and artifacts educate and spread awareness of different histories and cultures. For the present generation of the same culture, museums give an insight of their cultural heritage. For different cultures, museums act as a source of information of other heritages and lands.

The Museum of Art & Photography is where one can learn of the different cultures of South Asia through centuries. Similarly, all private and national museums are preservers of history, traditions and heritages. Their presence and contribution in the making of history is often understated, but cannot be denied or ignored.

Love-lorn Melodies – Exploring the Ragamala Paintings from Bundi

Soma Ghosh

March 31, 2022

About-Ragamala-Paintings — Garh Palace, Bundi – Wikimedia

#Didyouknow that many miniature paintings from the genre of ‘Ragamala’ depict the anguish of separation in love? The School of Bundi from the broader Rajasthani School has produced many such paintings. A city in the Hadoti region belonging to the Hada Rajputs of Rajasthan state in northwest India, Bundi has a rich history and was the capital of the former princely state with the same name of Rajputana in India. Bundi is located in a narrow valley within the Aravalli Mountain range. It is famous for its lakes, natural vegetation, palaces, forts and its paintings; murals at Chitrashala in the Garh palace made during the reign of Umed Singh, and many other works on paper, now in different collections.

Miniature Painting at Bundi

Ragamala-Paintings-02 — Rao Bhao Singh of Bundi state – Wikimedia

As mentioned, the Hadoti region belonged to the Hada Rajputs. The Chunar Ragamala was executed in 1591 A.D under the Hada Rajput, Bhoj Singh (r.1585-1607, son of Surjan Singh) and is a landmark in the history of Ragamala painting. The ruler who was under the Mughals was stationed at Chunar, near Varanasi and functioned from his palace there. The set was painted by three artists Shaykh Hasan, Shaykh Ali, and Shaykh Hatim, who were pupils of Mir Sayyid Ali and Khwaja Abddus Samad of the Mughal atelier; who had been gifted by Emperor Akbar. This set was iconic and influenced the later Ragamalas produced at Bundi.

The Bundi school flowered later under Rao Chattrasal (r.1631 -1659), a governor under Shahjahan who helped in conquering of the Deccan by the Mughals and his son Rao Bhao Singh (r.1659-1682). The Bundi paintings show not just Mughal influence but also Deccan influence, given the use of bright hues. His successors Aniruddha Singh (r.1682-1702), Budh Singh (r.1703-1749), Umed Singh (r. 1749-1771), Bishen Singh (r.1771-1821) and Ram Singh (r.1821-1889) kept the school alive by royal patronage.

The school made different kinds of paintings. Ragamalas, royal portraits and lifestyle, hunting scenes, birds and animals, dance and music events, processions, also Krishna-Leela scenes, the Baramasa, Gita Govinda, Rasikpriya illustrations among many others. Lush vegetation is well-depicted in Bundi paintings. The women are seen wearing elaborate jewellery and colourful garments.

The Genre of Ragamala Paintings

A ‘Ragamala’ means ‘garland of ragas’, which is a set of paintings in which each raga, an Indian musical mode, actually a melody, is represented by a scene relating to the raga. A raga has its own essence and has been defined as ’a permutation and combination of notes or frequencies illustrated by melodic movements which are capable of producing a pleasant sensation, mood or an emotion in the mind of the listener’. The Ragamalas are a symphony of art, poetry and classical music of India. These ragas depict bhavas or emotions and are meant to be sung at a particular time of the day and in a particular season. Ragamala paintings have an accompanying verse written on top describing the painting and mentioning the raga it represents. The Ragamalas depict various moods of love, worship of gods, the action on a battlefield and many other scenarios including ascetic life. There are six main ragas; Bhairava, Malkaus, Deepak, Hindol, Shri and Megha and each raga has accompanying female ‘raginis’ as well, also their numerous sons, ‘ragaputra’ and daughters ‘ragaputri’. The ragas are expressed pictorially in the Ragamalas.

Let us explore some Ragamalas to do with the theme of love and longing, from this princely state!

Malasri Ragini

This Malasri ragini from the Chunar Ragamala of 1591 is at the Arthur M. Sackler Museum, U S A. Malasri ragini is depicted by a woman who is waiting for her lover. She is seen plucking at a flower from a string or petals as she waits in anticipation. We can see the petals falling as she plucks them. It is night time with stars and a crescent moon, the lamp is lit. Sometimes a companion is shown with her in depictions of Malasri.

Vilaval Ragini

Vilaval ragini depicts a noble-woman dressing up and wearing earrings. The heroine is dressing up to meet her beloved. Her attendant holds a mirror for her while another lady plays on an instrument. A fountain in the foreground. The sun is strong in the sky and a peacock is on the parapet. The composition of circa 1680 housed at Freer Gallery of Art, U S A, has an ornate foliate border in gold and other colours.

Gujari Ragini

Gujari ragini depicts a lady seated with a veena. A peacock is also in her company in this painting from circa 1670 housed at the Cleveland Museum of Art, Ohio, U S A. The peacock is symbolic of the absent lover for whom she is waiting. There are two pots in the foreground which are again symbolic. It is a melody of the monsoon, depicting the sorrow of separation. A ragini of pathos and longing.

Gunakari Ragini

A lady is picking flowers to make garlands in preparation for the arrival of her lover, which is the representation of Gunakari ragini. Garlands are symbolic of the tryst of love. A plantain tree is in the backdrop alongside a flowering one with birds and clouds in the sky. A peacock is in the foreground, maybe symbolising the absent beloved. The ragini is one of anticipation. The work dated to circa 1660 is with the V& A Museum, London.

Todi Ragini

The Todi ragini is an image of a beautiful forlorn woman wandering in a grove, who has been separated from her lover. Her companions are the deer who listen to her mesmerising music as she plays the Todi ragini on her veena. She searches the forest for her beloved. The Todi ragini is an old tribal folk melody; turned later into a classical melody. This painting is with the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam dated to circa 1779.

References –

Sodhi, Jiwan (1999) A study of Bundi School of painting, New Delhi: Abhinav Publications
Amrita Kumar,ed (1994) Ragamala painting, New Delhi: Rupa & Co.
Gangoly, O. C (1935) Ragas and Raginis, Calcutta: Clive Press
https://www.adotrip.com/city-detail/bundi (accessed on 16.03.2022)
https://collections.vam.ac.uk/item/O88406/gunakali-ragini-painting(accessed on 16.03.2022)

Sundari Gopi Dolls – A Traditional Play Propagating Stories Of Krishna

Prarthana Asija

March 30, 2022

Gopi Dolls is at the heart of its creator Nandini Zaldivar, who is a professional artist, and Deity painter. Presently living in Pottsville Beach, New South Wales, Australia, Nandini grew up in America as a Hare Krishna devotee from Alachua, as her parents were disciples of Srila Prabhupada. Now, a mother of two daughters, Nandini passes on the same tradition inherited from her parents in a playful way. While Nandini played with Barbies all her childhood, she wanted her daughters to have dolls resembling their culture. Each of her creations is unique with a story sewed into it, and is now a large part of a number of children’s fantasy worlds, encouraging play and learning simultaneously. What initially started as a hobby of dressing up Barbies into Gopi Doll traditional outfits, has become sensational quickly. In conversation with Nandini, we found out about:

Nandini Zaldivar – The Composer

I have been designing dolls for many years now. Besides dolls, I also sell prints, photography, and other artwork that I make. Additionally, I do Mehendi Art for fun sometimes, which is usually for friends and family, and their weddings, parties, and to entertain my kids. This is generally done with acrylic paints than with traditional cones, which I find a lot easier to control, and since several people are not comfortable committing to the stains, especially those who work and cannot go to their workplace with permanent hand paints. Presently, I am not offering it as a professional service.

Talking about my education, I have formal training in Fine Arts as I have been doing arts all my life. I grew up observing my mother’s artistic creations who then taught me sewing, painting, and drawing as I overlooked her shoulders. She used to sew for the Hare Krishna Temple in New Raman Reti Farm in Alachua for the Radhe Krishna deities. She used to do beading, jewelry designing, backdrop making, garland making, and most importantly, she decorated my Barbie dolls, and I suppose it is safe to say that she created the first ever Gopi Doll. Inspired, I took art classes, and when I graduated from high school, I was awarded a scholarship for my academics, only to later switch to Arts Major where my whole world opened up. I went to art shows, and won accolades at university level.

The Beginning of Gopi Dolls

Born and brought up in a family of Krishna worshippers, my daughters inherited the same culture. What I initially created as a fun hobby for my daughters in 2008-09 were Hare Krishna Barbies for playing dress up. I started sewing them by hand as I did not own a sewing machine back when I was still new to Australia. With no intent of converting this hobby into a business in mind, my daughter’s friends inquired about where she found these dolls from. Upon responding, “My mommy made them,” I received requests from their moms to make them similar Gopi Dolls – my first unexpected commission work.

When I later moved to another town where I owned a little thrift store, I was suggested to add my Gopi Dolls to the collection. With a number of Krishna devotees from Sydney, they spotted me near the Hare Krishna Farm with my Gopi Dolls, willing to spend their money to buy them. That is when I came across the term ‘Adult Doll Collectors’, and that there is an actual market for these collectors. With the inception of Instagram, a whole movement of OOAK (One Of A Kind) dolls began, when people began describing their dissatisfaction with the customized barbies. Either the factory paint, clothing, and hair disappointed them, or they were really looking forward to a variety in terms of tradition. With the inclusion of different body types, made-to-move, articulated Barbies, it was an opportunity for me to decorate them in line with the vedas and mythology.

Conversion to a Business Model

In 2008, the same year I started creating Gopi Doll clothing, my friend who is a Computer Programmer asked me to put this on Facebook without any further ado. Initially timid, I was motivated to create a simple profile, and to my surprise the news went around the other parts of the world. With it reaching my native town of Florida, a lot of friends and family requested to buy it for themselves as well as for their daughters. The rest is now history.

Gopi Dolls Fashion

Gopi Dolls Fashion was a rather side chapter of Gopi Dolls, specifically for clothing and redressing ideas. The motive was to sell outfits separately if one already owned a doll. Presently, I also sell individual jewelry pieces, salwar kameez and anarkalis.

Gopi Dolls – A Narrative of the Secondary Characters

Interviewer: One thing that really intrigues me is that while Rasleela talks about the dance of Krishna and Radha as protagonists with Gopis/Sakhis as supporting characters, you, by setting up ‘Gopi Dolls’ are introducing little girls and boys to a world beyond the Great Krishna, it is in a way revolutionary, to popularize the background characters. You are motivating these kids to look beyond the popular narrative. How were you inspired that Gopis would be the central character of your little world?

Although it was not a thoughtful thing, it began as a challenge posed to painting Ken as Krishna. From loving female fashion, to recreating vedic scriptures, I learnt that worshiping devotees close to Krishna can get you closer to Him. Each time I create a Gopi and no Krishna, I suggest a mood of separation which is spoken in Rasleela when he leaves for Dwarka. My Gopis miss him, and I always create them keeping in mind that mood.

Ken to Krishna

I love Lord Krishna. I have created many Krishna dolls over the years, and I intend to continue making them. The process however is not a cakewalk: the skin is plastic and slippery, as a

result, it is not as easy to paint the face so well. It either peels the eye or does not stay. I am waiting to create something of good quality, so that my Gopis and Krishna are not forever in separation.

Naming the Gopi Dolls

One of my favorite collections or series so far is called the Queens of Dwarka. Now, the nomenclature requires its research, therefore I sat and read about all the primary Queens; mind you, there are more than just the primary ones. First I created many Queen Rukmanis. I referred to her description and created her accordingly. Next is Queen Kalindi who is characterized as one having a dark skin tone. For Tulsi Maharani, the theme was deciphered as that of the holy plant tulsi, hence drawing a green veil, with her holding a parrot (since the doll had a holding hand), and many peacock feathers. Then there is Govinda Nandini, who is not named after me but chosen by a friend who requested for her.

At times, I do not dedicatedly follow the descriptions. For instance, I Google certain names and their meanings, and create a doll accordingly. Every so often, my daughters suggest names. Like this one time, she came up with the name of Sabala, after Cow Sabala with a peacock tail (backstory: Vashistha had a cow called Sabala. It was a divine being and the moment she was instructed to arrange for the feast, she yielded sugarcanes and all its produce such as sugar, jaggery, sweet wines). Therefore, Sabala had a peacock theme, starting from her outfit, to a peacock feather in her hair. Other beautiful names of my Gopi Dolls are Dhruva, Damayanti, and Ishwari.

The Imagination behind the Imagery

In every Instagram post, or the paintings that I sell, you would often distinguish the background as green lush gardens, with pots, a little paalna, and some animal imagery of monkeys, and cows. Each background is inspired by either beach walks, stories that I hear at Krishna park, or from reading vedic scriptures. I have a mass collection of stuff such as animals to add to the scenery.

The last scenery that I worked on was Mother Yashoda and Baby Krishna. Having made a number of them, coming with new setups is demanding as I did not want to use the same materials again and again. So, I dressed them up in the same fabric but in a different style, and added new things that I bought six months ago such as the harmonium, and some hanging pots. I am also inspired by other creators who use the altar next to a window from where life spills in. This one time, it was raining and it looked surreal. I also love doing garden shots as I own one big garden.

Other Mythological Characters

I created a Ravana doll as a custom request for a man who is a theater actor from Sydney of Indian descent, who happened to stumble upon my page. For his Diwali play, he was playing the role of Ravana, and wanted to create a doll that looked exactly like him. Although it was out of my comfort zone, I was anxious about how my fan base would react. To my surprise, they were awestruck! I can only imagine the fun in creating Rama, Laxman, Sita, Hanuman, and Ravana as a whole dramatic Ramayana world for kids.

The Challenges

There are plenty of challenges that I face as an artist, but then Lord Krishna guides my hand to overcome them. The biggest challenge is repainting their faces to give them a traditional makeup, combined with a contemporary feel so that my customers relate to them, yet trying not to defy the vedas since they have their own set of rules. Secondly, I mess up all the time – failing in matching one eye to the other, wiping it off, respraying, removing glue from the face, and then fixing the mess for several hours. Sometimes, a doll can take upto two hours and yet some can take upto two years. Contentedly, all this is worth the lesson.

To overcome these challenges, I often go for beach walks as Pottsville Beach is close to my home. The energy is constantly renewing with every wave releasing my stress, to come back all refreshed, renewed, and ready to start something new. Eat a pizza, read some book, watch something beautiful, observe other vedic artists, check my social media, read and respond to a few letters, until a few ideas pop up in my head – for me stepping back for a while is the solution.

The Reception

Krishna dolls are mostly custom ordered, so I imagine they are what are the most preferred. I am not regularly creating Krishna and Radha dolls, so it is safe to say that I keep my audience hankering for more. And, the baby Krishnas never last as they get sold straight away in the flick of a finger.

Future Plans

Recently, I launched Gopi Doll Plushie, and her name is Princess Jambavati (backstory: Princess Jambavati is the daughter of King Jambavan who grows up to marry Lord Krishna and becomes one of the prominent Queens of Dwarka). All of her accessories are made to come off as well as can be put back on. I have also been contacted for manufacturing Gopi Dolls on a large scale, but presently I am being really cautious and waiting for the right moment. In the time to come, many new dolls will be launched who are now under creation, especially many baby Krishna Dolls. Moreover, over the years I have collected many dolls besides Barbies, Integrity Toys, and Disney Princesses, which are really cute. As my New Year’s resolution, I decided to go through my box of dolls and start working on them because why not! There are many more dolls that I will be launching in bigger quality, although truth be told, I am still testing out my paints, but for now they continue to be a secret as big ideas need the time. Presently, I am

working on a couples’ outfits who are getting married in September, for whom I am outsourcing and ordering many pieces from both India and Australia.

Send across your dolls for a spectacular transformation

People (particularly parents) send me their dolls all the time, either second hand bought at an op shop, or a brand new doll. They often attach a reference in the form of photos or descriptions, based on which I fix their hair, paint and re-design their faces, and redress them traditionally. Previously, one of my clients sent me a very expensive doll, mind you it was not a Barbie but a Fashion Royalty by Integrity Toys, costing approximately $900 doll! The inspiration she sent along was that of Deepika Padukone, who was then transformed into Ishwari, a traditional yet contemporary bride for her daughter who is half-Indian. She said this would be reminiscent of her heritage with which she could grow up. Not to miss, I also receive requests for custom faces.

You can reach out to Nandini in one of the following ways:

The old school way of Gmail on gopidolls@gmail.com, her Etsy shop, Pinterest, her main account on Instagram through a DM, or a comment. Get your hands on a Gopi Doll today!

Top 10 Location for Big Fat Destination Weddings In India

Somya Goel

March 28, 2022

Marriage ceremonies are one of the most important social events in India. These social functions have been greatly celebrated since the times historic. A wedding is unquestionably the most important day in one’s life. A perfect destination can make it even more memorable. India is full of such locations which might make you love-struck. Here is a list of 10 destinations for the big fat Indian wedding to leave you in awe.

Suggested Read – Top 7 Pre-Wedding Photo Shoot locations in India

Udaipur

Udaipur tops our list of best destinations for a big fat Indian wedding. We don’t call Udaipur the ‘Venice’ of the East for no reason. The glorifying history and marvellous architecture of the city attract not only Indians but also foreigners. If you plan for a traditional yet enchanting wedding, Udaipur is the best place for your big day. The vibrant, cheerful, and opulent vibe surrounding the city makes it stand out from all other locations.

Everyone wants to experience being a king or a queen at their wedding, so why not grab a chance when you can become one for real! The royal-style marriage in a staggering palace is what everyone wishes for, and Udaipur is here as a genie to fulfil this majestic dream. After the tourist season, the best time to plan your wedding in Udaipur is from September to February. City Palace at lake Pichola, Leela Palace, Jagmandir Island Palace are some of the best venues in Udaipur to light up your wedding day.

Goa

Destination wedding in India, Goa — Image – WeddigBazaar / Facebook

What could be better than a wedding with a sea breeze and pristine beach view? Goa serves the best place for the cute wedding you are looking for. The open beaches with lush green bushes, deep blue sea, and crystal sky make Goa a beautiful destination for marriages. Not to forget the old churches and exotic resorts all around the state. Moreover, if you want to party hard, Goa is just the right place.

The best time to book your venue in Goa is all year long. However, keeping the climate in mind, September to October end is considered as the best time. The Park Hyatt Resort in Goa is among the best venues in India for tying a knot. Taj Exotica, Zuri White Sands, and Kenilworth Resort are also among the top venues in the state.

Jodhpur

Royalty starts with the alphabet ‘R’, and so does our prepossessing state Rajasthan. Rajasthan has one of the best destinations for the big fat Indian wedding you have been looking for. No one can deny a fairy tale wedding with exquisite grandeurs. The Sun City, Jodhpur, has been one of the prime choices of people for wedding venues.

You can find grand palaces in this Desert capital of India. September is the best month to have a ceremony in the city. Umaid Bhawan is the jewel of this city, famous worldwide for its luxurious design and royal-style weddings. However, it is not the only option on the platter. The other venues include Ajit Bhawan Palace, Taj Hari Mahal Palace, and many more.

Shimla

The snow-covered mountains, calming chilly wind, beautiful environment, and pleasant climate makes Shimla one of the most aesthetic locations in the country. In the lap of nature, the ceremony in the ‘Queen of hills’ becomes even more glorious. It is best to plan your destination wedding in Shimla in the spring or summer seasons.

Your destination wedding under the crystal sky, calm surroundings, and love blooming valleys of Shimla would be memorable. Taj Theong Resort, The Oberoi Cecil, Hotel Willow banks are among the top wedding venues in Shimla.

Mussoorie

It is yet another destination for the mountainside wedding, surrounded by lush green, tall trees, and calming cool winds. JW Marriott Walnut Grove Resort is one of the best venues in India for a destination wedding. The idiosyncratic Grand Orchard Ballroom makes it stand out. Mussoorie has in its sack, blue sky with the surreal view of the Himalayas, enchanting sunset as well as the dazzling night sky full of stars. This makes it the best place for both night and daytime weddings.

Jaipur

Jaipur has one of the charming venues for luxurious weddings. The pink city is pink in colour street walls and architecture and the pink Rosie-love vibe in the air. This city holds the potential to turn your aristocratic fantasy into reality.

The Jai Mahal Palace is world-famous for its phenomenal wedding ceremonies. Further, the Raj Palace and the Rambagh Palace are also the architectural masterpieces of the city. The grand wedding with elephants, camels, and horses is a remarkable feature of Jaipur weddings.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

‘Away from the city hassle, away from the meadows, close to the water, close to the shingles’. If this is what’s occupying your mind, the Indian islands, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, are the best place for you. Their unique unrelenting ritualistic nature best characterizes the wedding ceremonies held at Andaman and Nicobar Islands amidst tranquility.

It is the place to make the dream of every couple’s beach wedding come true. The islands provide a serene and charming option for a small wedding, with about 60-100 guests. Havelock Island offers the best resort options; Port Blair is yet another option for an exotic wedding.

Kerala

One of the best places for a destination wedding if you are planning for the same in the South. Famous for the offbeat, eccentric weddings. The best time to plan a wedding in Kerala is from September to March. You can schedule a wedding in the backwaters of Alleppey or a wedding at one of the beautiful beaches in the state. What can one ask for other than a pristine wedding at ‘God’s own country?

Jim Corbett

Jim Corbett is one of the most exotic wedding destinations in the country. Who wouldn’t love a mandapa set up amidst the forest beside the soft humming water streams? The place has arrangements for outdoor, indoor, as well as, poolside weddings. Venues like Wood Castle Resort, Den Corbett Resort, Clarks Exotica, Dukes Den Resort are famous among the urban populations of India as well as abroad.

The resort also provides the facility of forest safari, birdwatching, and nature walking in their packages. The excellent service, along with modest prices, makes Jim Corbett an attractive destination for tying a knot.

Bengaluru

Also called Bangalore, the Garden city is the last on our list. It has some of the world-famous venues, including the Bengaluru Palace and Guttahalli Palace. The best time to plan your in-budget destination wedding in Bangalore is between September and February. Bangalore has mesmerizing architecture and beauty at its peak, with a perfect blend of old traditions in the modern era.

This list includes some of the most famous and renowned places in India, often chosen by families. However, besides the destinations mentioned above, one might also consider New Delhi, Rishikesh, Jaisalmer, and many more. The list goes on and on!

5 Tips To Follow When Looking For LED Lights for Homes

Cscope Staff

March 25, 2022

LED undoubtedly is the future of lightning given the several benefits it offers – energy-efficiency, cost-effectiveness, eco-friendliness, just to name a few of them. And it is these benefits that have led to an increasing number of people replacing their conventional lighting solutions such as incandescents, halogens, and fluorescents with new age LEDs.

If you, too, are planning to switch to LED but are procrastinating your LED buying decision because of lack of information, here’s a post that gives you five Important tips that you must follow when looking for LED lights for home.

Let’s get started.

1. First Things First – It’s Lumens, Not Watts.

You might have heard people talk about conventional bulbs in terms of their wattage. That’s because when incandescents were in demand people used to buy bulbs on the basis of their wattage as it was their way of determining the amount of light they could expect from a bulb of a particular watt. The brightness of an LED is, however, represented in Lumens (and not Watts) as it’s a more appropriate unit for representing brightness of any lighting solution.

2. Look For An LED With A Dimming Feature.

Unlike conventional lightings LEDs can be dimmed as per the mood or the occasion. The unique dimming feature can help change the mood of any space. Just make sure that you buy a dimmer that comes with a continuous dimming option rather than a step level dimming option. This will allow you to choose between countless dimming levels. The Smart Switch Batten from Luminous comes with an automatic dimmer that allows smooth transition from brightness to darkness when switched off.

3. Go For A Multi-Color LED Light.

The good thing about LED lights is that they come in a wide range of colors. What’s even better, some lights come with multiple color options so that you can change the color as per your preference. The Comet Concealed Light from Luminous India, for instance, allows users to choose between various colors depending on their mood. The color options that it offers are – Red, Green, Blur, Cool White, Warm White.

4. Pay Attention To The Design And Shape Of The LED.

Unlike traditional lights that used to be plain, simple and lacked in design, the new age LED solutions are available in a variety of designs, styles and shapes. This allows LED buyers to experiment with the look, feel and aesthetics of their rooms. That’s because LED manufacturing companies understand the importance of an LED in a home’s decor. So make sure you buy an LED that goes with your home decor. If you are looking for an LED that’s square in shape you must check out the Galaxia Square Light by Luminous India. For a round shape light you can consider Luminous India’s Comet Concealed Light.

5. Compare LEDs On The Basis Of Their Power Consumption.

While LEDs are far more energy efficient as compared to conventional lights, it is still recommended that you compare the shortlisted LEDs on the basis of their power consumption to find out which of them is the most power efficient. The lower the power consumption, the more the savings you make on your energy bills, and the sooner you get to recover the amount you spent on purchasing the LED.

Last Word

Besides the above mentioned things you must also ensure that the LED you buy comes with a generous warranty. Just make sure that you buy from a reputable brand that is known for offering great after sales support. One such brand that you must consider when looking for an LED light is Luminous India. It’s a 3 decade old company that has millions of satisfied customers. In fact, don’t just believe what we say, go online and read customer reviews to get an idea about the company’s offerings.

Remarkable Historical Places in Punjab You Must Visit!

Cscope Staff

March 23, 2022

For centuries, the historical state of Punjab has been ruled by numerous heroic kings of the country, resulting in the construction of eye-catching buildings, monuments, and lavish palaces. While rural Punjab is known throughout the country for its lush green terrains, paddy fields, and wheat outputs, urban Punjab is known for its link with Sikh Gurus and brave rulers. The historical and scientific architectural worth of the forts and palaces created throughout the state is highly praised. The artistic brilliance of most of these heritage buildings is deserving of praise, and they give history lovers considerable material to ponder. Punjab is a must-see for anyone interested in ancient civilization, spirituality, or history. The people here are extremely proud of their religion and culture, as evidenced by their happy grins.

1. Sri Harmandir Sahib

Historical Places in Punjab, Shri Harmandir Sahib — Image- Wikimedia

The Golden Temple in Amritsar is the first thing that springs to mind whenever someone mentions Punjab. It is the Sikh community’s most important cultural treasure, not just a temple or a tourist attraction. It is one of the Indian subcontinent’s most valuable assets. The work began in 1577 AD with the excavation of the Amrit Sarovar, a sacred lake. Sri Guru Amar Dass Ji devised the idea, and Sri Guru Ram Dass Ji carried it out. Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji started the construction of Sri Harmandir Sahib in 1588 AD. Sri Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikhs’ holy book, was first introduced in this holy sanctuary in 1604 AD. The temple’s architecture conveys a message about life. The temple is erected at a lower level than the surrounding area, opposing human pride and ego. The presence of four gates in four directions denotes that this location is open to all. Visiting this temple would undoubtedly be a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

2. Jallianwala Bagh

Historical Places in Punjab, Jallianwala Bagh — Image- Wikimedia

In the history of British rule in India, April 13, 1919 is remembered as a dark day. Thousands of nonviolent protests were ruthlessly slaughtered by a British unit led by General Reginald Dyer, who suspected a plot against British power since the nonviolent protest was planned by Mahatma Gandhi against the Rowlatt Act’s implementation. The bloodbath occurred in the Jallianwala Bagh grounds, as British troops opened fire without warning.In the history of the British rule in India, April 13, 1919, is remembered as a dark day. Thousands of nonviolent protests were ruthlessly slaughtered by a British unit led by General Reginald Dyer, who suspected a plot against British power since the nonviolent protest was planned by Mahatma Gandhi against the Rowlatt Act’s implementation. The bloodbath occurred in the Jallianwala Bagh grounds, as British troops opened fire without warning.

A memorial was built at Jallianwala Bagh after independence to remember the sacrifice of the innocent Indians. Dr Rajendra Prasad, India’s first President, dedicated the memorial. Visitors are still haunted by the memories of the spine-chilling incident left by gunshot marks on the wall.

3. Akal Takht

Historical Places in Punjab, Akal Takht — Image- Wikimedia

The Akal Takht, which means ‘everlasting seat,’ is the high throne of the Sikh Gurus in the Harmandir Sahib. The seat was built in 1606 by Guru Hargovind Sahib. The Akal Takht, one of the five thrones of the Sikhs, served as a judicial seat for the Sikh Gurus to render decisions on religious matters.
The Akal Takht was built 12 feet high, in violation of Emperor Jehangir’s decree, breaching the 3 foot limit for all thrones except the Emperor’s. During Operation Blue Star in 1984, it was vandalized and eventually repaired with contributions.

4. Quila Mubarak

Historical Places in Punjab, Quila Mubarak — Image- Wikimedia

The beautiful Quila Mubarak lies in the middle of Bhatinda, evoking memories of the great monarchs of the past, such as Kanishka, Sultan Mahmud, Razia Sultana, and Prithvi Raj Chauhan. The fort was built on King Kanishka’s initiative during the Kushana dynasty, and it is also known as the Bhatinda Fort. In this medieval fort, Rajia Sultana, the first lady to hold the throne of Delhi, was imprisoned. The fort is divided into two sections, one of which is known as Quila Androon and the other as Quila Mubarak.
The royal family used to live in Qila Androon. It is designed in a grand architectural style that combines Rajasthani and Mughal influences. A visit to this magnificent quila is an experience of awe and magnificence.

5. Sheesh Mahal

Historical Places in Punjab, Sheesh Mahal — Image- Wikimedia

Sheesh Mahal, often known as the ‘Palace of Mirrors,’ is a magnificent visual marvel in Patiala. It was once the residence of the Patiala Kings. Maharaja Narinder Singh conceptualised the palace’s design. A section of the palace is made of tinted glass, which adds a splash of colour to the castle’s beauty. Rajasthani painters painted murals on the walls and ceilings depicting ancient tales. The splendour of the premises is enhanced to a heavenly amount by a beautiful garden, fountains, an artificial lake, and a bridge known as the Lakshman Jhoola.

6. Wagah Border

Historical Places in Punjab, Wagah Border — Image- Wikimedia

The Wagah Border, which runs along the Grand Trunk Road and is 22 kilometres from Lahore, Pakistan, and 28 kilometres from Amritsar, India, marks the border between India and Pakistan. The Wagah Border Ceremony, also known as the Beating Retreat Ceremony, is the main attraction. It takes place every day. Every evening, shortly before dusk, Indian and Pakistani soldiers gather at this border station for a 30-minute display of military friendship and showmanship. The international gates will be closed, and both countries’ flags will be lowered during this ceremony. Since 1959, the Indian Border Security Force and Pakistan Rangers have held a flag ceremony.

Entertainment is also provided as a show of national pride for the thousands of visitors who come here every day. The crowd participates in chanting the Indian national anthem, applauding, and Bollywood-style dancing to Hindi songs during the build-up to the ceremony.

7. Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum

Historical Places in Punjab, Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum — Image- Wikimedia

The Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum is located in Amritsar’s Company Bagh. It was the summer home of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the first king of the Sikh Empire, after whom the museum is named. The Maharaja’s life, as well as the history, art, and architecture of the Sikh community in the 18th and 19th centuries, are currently on display at the museum. The museum is 1.5 kilometres from Amritsar Junction and 4 kilometres from the Golden Temple.

The museum, which was converted into a museum in 1977, contains several antiquities and personal things of the Maharaja, such as his armour and weaponry. It also has wonderful paintings, manuscripts, and coins from previous ages on display. This reflects Maharaja’s secular ethos as well as the province’s rich history. The paintings generally represent scenes from the court and camp of the Sikh ruler. Among all of them, the one showing the city of Lahore is the most well-known among observers. The famous Rambagh Gardens surround the palace, which is known for their monument of the legendary monarch with his horse.

8. Khair-ud-Din Masjid

Historical Places in Punjab, Khair-ud-Din Masjid — Image- shankar s./ Flickr

Khair-ud-Din Masjid was built in 1876 by Mohd. Khairuddin is known for its architecture. The Khairuddin Masjid, also known as Jama Masjid, is a majestic mosque that played a significant role in India’s independence war. From the brackets of this mosque, Syed Ata Ullah Shah Bukhari, a Muslim scholar and political leader, urged the people to take up arms against British rule. It was from here that Tootie-e-Hind, Shah Attaullah Bukhari, issued the momentous call to wage war against the plundering British.

This spectacular formation, built in the arcuate style, is reminiscent of classic Islamic architecture, with exquisite beams and arches. The Jama Masjid’s walls are embellished with beautiful calligraphy Aayats. Built of white marble stone, the intricate designs including miniature paintings are done in green colour that perfectly compliments the white and pops out immediately. This insanely beautiful mosque is visited by locals as well as tourists regularly.

9. Gurdwara Mata Kaulan

Historical Places in Punjab, Gurdwara-Mata-Kaulan — Image Source

On the west side of Amritsar’s Golden Temple sits Mata Kaulan’s sacred shrine, also known as Gurudwara Mata Kaulan. This Gurdwara is named after Bibi Kaulan, a renowned devotee of Guru Har Gobind. The older members of the Sikh community recall her kirtans, which she sang diligently every evening.

Guru Har Gobind encouraged worshippers to take a plunge in the Kaulsar Sarovar before heading to the Amrit Sarovar, which is located next to the Gurdwara Mata Kaulan. The Sarovar is also the first holy water tank in the Muslim world to be named after a woman.

9. Guru Ke Mahal

Historical Places in Punjab, Guru Ke Mahal — Image – discoversikhism.com

Guru Ke Mahal, which houses the Granth Sahib and their gurus, was founded by Guru Ram Das in 1573 as a little cottage that grew to house the Sikhs’ famous gurus. Gurudwara Guru Ke Mahal is a simple cottage located on Guru Bazaar’s main street near the Golden Temple in Ramdaspur’s holy city (now known as Amritsar).

The structure was converted into a Gurdwara after it served as a house for Sri Guru Ram Das, the founder of Amritsar. It’s a three-story tabernacle with an elevated platform on which the Sikhs’ holy book, Guru Granth Sahib, is kept.

The Mahal’s structure is separated into three levels. The Gurus used to meditate in the basement, which now functions as a meditation space. On the second floor, there is space for people to sit together and participate in kirtans. The Guru Granth Sahib has been repeated on the uppermost floor. On Baisakhi, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur is said to have been born in the Mahal. As a result, Baisakhi is also his birthday. On Baisakhi, in addition to the usual rituals, special kirtans and langar known as Guru ka Langar are held. On Guru Tegh Bahadur Jayanti, hundreds of Sikhs and tourists flock to this religious monument.

This simple small cottage, founded by Sri Guru Ram Das Ji, quickly became known as the headquarters of Sikh gurus, albeit it was shortly relocated. The subsequent gurus expanded and embellished this small cottage till it resembled a Mahal.

10. Gobindgarh Fort

Historical Places in Punjab, Gobindgarh Fort — Image- Wikimedia

Gobindgarh Fort, also known as Gujar Singh Fort, is a mediaeval military bastion in the heart of Amritsar, built by the Bhangi Misi Rulers in the 1760s. The fort, which was originally built of mud, was seized by Maharaja Ranjit Singh and renamed Gobind Garh after the prominent Sikhism religious figure Guru Gobind Singh. The fort was built with bricks and lime andis by Ranjit Singh. A parapet and two doorways may be found on every corner of the fort. Nalwa Gate is the main entrance, and Killer Gate is the back gate. The fort houses the Maharaja’s treasury, weaponry, and other personal effects. The fort is said to have a hidden underground tunnel that leads to Lahore.Gobindgarh Fort, also known as Gujar Singh Fort, is a mediaeval military bastion in the heart of Amritsar, built by the Bhangi Misi Rulers in the 1760s. The fort, which was originally built of mud, was seized by Maharaja Ranjit Singh and renamed Gobind Garh after the prominent Sikhism religious figure Guru Gobind Singh. The fort was built with bricks and lime andis by Ranjit Singh. A parapet and two doorways may be found on every corner of the fort. Nalwa Gate is the main entrance, and Killer Gate is the back gate. The fort houses the Maharaja’s treasury, weaponry, and other personal effects. The fort is said to have a hidden underground tunnel that leads to Lahore.

In Punjab, there are numerous historical sites to visit, each of which will reveal its own unique stories from the past. Punjab, as one can see, has a plethora of tourism attractions. The state offers diverse tourism and is rich in culture and heritage. Punjab is rich in culture, heritage, gastronomy, festivals, fairs, rural life, indigenous arts and crafts, old castles and monuments, religious sites, and much more.

A Deep Guide on Rich Lifestyle in Dubai

Cscope Staff

March 21, 2022

Imagine yourself waking up to cloudless blue skies and you breathe in the fresh air. You spend a day in the private club before heading to your preferred golf course.

Afterward, your chauffeur then takes you to Ossiano for dinner, tasting seafood delicacies while viewing the Ambassador Lagoon with artistic brilliance.

You may think that a life like this is out of reach, but a redefined luxury awaits you in Dubai.

Opulent Properties in the City

Renowned homes in Dubai are a pinnacle of luxury, with the latest Smart home technology and ultramodern architecture. If you wish to lead a rich lifestyle, LuxuryProperty.com mentioned some of the most luxurious real estate areas in Dubai:

1. Downtown Dubai

Some of the most demanding apartments, including Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa, are present here. Matter of fact, Downtown Dubai has always been a lavish neighborhood in the Emirate.

2. Palm Jumeirah

Have a taste of calmness in the artificial archipelago of Palm Jumeirah that was introduced by Nakheel Properties – a leading name in the real estate market of UAE.

Discover beachside homes and be assured that The Palm is an eco-friendly project boasting an endless array of amenities and facilities.

3. Emirates Hills

Being the first big-scale gated villa-only venture in the Middle East, one can enjoy prestigious residences constructed in Emirates Hills that overlook the Montgomerie Golf Course and serene lakes.

You will be beside the family-oriented neighborhoods, such as The Meadows, The Springs, and The Lakes.

4. Dubai Hills Estate

This mega-development features luscious manicured garden villas, spectacular townhouses, and low-rise apartments. It is rightly known as a city within a city for the majestic development scope, and displays green trails, a championship golf course, and its Dubai Hills Mall.

5. Dubai Marina

This region undoubtedly gains a heavy global audience throughout the year. It is the biggest artificial marina in the world. In Dubai Marina, one can find exclusive waterfront homes, customized penthouses, and apartments.

6. Al Barari

Al Barari boasts one of the most upscale places to reside in the city. This sustainable showcases 6 residential districts situated inside the splendid gardens – Balinese, Water Garden, Mediterranean, Renaissance, Contemporary, and Woodland Gardens.

7. Jumeirah Islands

Enjoy a rich lifestyle in the 46 islands of the beachfront homes, including luxurious mansions, villas, and townhouses. Jumeirah Islands is recognized as one of the best areas having water views in the City of Gold.

8. Bluewaters Island

These artificial islands by Meraas Holding have magnificent seaside residences beside the city’s seafront observation wheel.

If you like water adventures, this is the best place for you. Some irresistible on-site beach locations are also available – Hell’s Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay, and Caesar’s Palace.

9. Jumeirah Golf Estates

Golf enthusiasts love the rolling green scenery of Jumeirah Golf Estates, displaying 2 globally recognized golf courses, and hosting the DP World Tour Championship annually. This gated establishment features wholesome security and safety, assuring the utmost privacy.

You can expect to enjoy the highest quality of comfort with these homes, where you can call the butler services any time. If you prefer golf homes anywhere in the Emirate, remember that the size of these homes are usually larger than yacht homes seen in other countries. Investing in Dubai’s real estate market is definitely a wise decision.

One-of-a-kind Airlines of Dubai

Even traveling to this city is lavished with opulence. Enjoy the world’s top-class suite on Emirates Airlines. A first-class suite comes with cozy leather seats that can recline into a bed, a shower with a great collection of Bvlgari toiletries, a sliding door for better privacy, an access to the A380 lounge on-board, a complimentary chauffeur service, and a private cocktail lounge with a committed bartender.

Majestic Resorts and Hotels in Dubai

For the ones wanting to go to the Emirate (but still lacking their own opulent pad), or for those who are hunting for a wonderful staycation, below are the grand hotels and resorts where you can bask in a taste of Dubai’s rich lifestyle:

Armani Hotel Dubai
Burj Al Arab
Taj Hotel Dubai
Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort
One & Only The Palm
Ritz-Carlton, Jumeirah Beach Residence
Jumeirah Al Naseem
Bulgari Hotel & Resorts
Burj Al Arab

These options work equally well for the inhabitants hunting for a new place to enjoy the weekend or for the ones visiting Dubai for the first time.

These resorts and hotels don’t compromise on luxurious activities and features, where you can get numerous ways to pamper yourself and bask in what the City of Gold has to offer.

Championship Golf Courses in Dubai

Golf lovers are undoubtedly spoiled in the City of Gold. Dubai is slowly but surely blooming into a new contemporary centerpiece of the golfing industry, particularly with all the top-tier golf courses present, such as:

The Els Club
Majlis Course in the Emirates Golf Club
Arabian Ranches Golf Club
Faldo Course in the Emirates Golf Club
Trump International Golf Club
Dubai Creek Golf Club
Fire Golf Course in Jumeirah Golf Estates
Earth Golf Course in Jumeirah Golf Estates
The Montgomerie Golf Club in The Address Montgomerie

Indulge in your passion for the sport with these high-end golf courses.

Exotic and Unbelievable Cars

For the ones who love exotic luxurious cars, the city presents the most posh supercars in the world. Million dollars of customized cars are a common thing luxury item here, as lots of Dubai occupants either rent out or own the following:

Ferrari 458 Italia
Rolls-Royce Phantom
Jaguar XFR
Bentley Continental Flying Spur
2014 Cadillac ATS
BMW X5 5.0
Lamborghini Gallardo

Not only do these exotic cars boast unmatched speed, but they are a super status symbol. The price range of these cars are between $36k to $292k. An impressive and slick ride is guaranteed to commute from one opulent place to another.

Unrivaled Shopping Malls in Dubai

This article can’t be complete without shopping malls and branded retail stores in the city, as Dubai is the best shopping destination in the world.

From antique art to lucrative bags, luxury brands are commonly available in the shopping hubs throughout the Emirate. Some of the frequently visited shopping malls in Dubai are:

City Walk
The Dubai Mall
Dubai Festival City Mall
Mall of the Emirates

Discover the best that the world has to offer in these hubs.

Premium Restaurants in the Emirate

Only in Dubai can one find the most high-quality and glamorous food providers in the world. Plus, Dubai’s nightlife is globally recognized, and there are themed nights, special events, and lucrative entertainment all-year for the Emirate dwellers and visitors alike. Care to visit the following happening spots for experiencing Dubai:

Jetty Lounge
Zuma
Buhayra Lounge
Pierchic
Bar 44
At.mosphere Burj Khalifa
SkyView Bar
STAY by Yannick Alleno
Sloane’s
Pai Thai

There are many other locales to kickstart a fun day with your loved ones, and enjoy the evening. But in case this is the first time experiencing the city, these spots are foolproof.

Amazing Food Hacks to Save Money on a Trip

Cscope Staff

March 21, 2022

Trips aren’t completed without munching on tasty food. If you are on a trip, food has got to be your best friend for the journey. It could get monotonous watching sceneries, and listening to the songs throughout your journey, here food comes to your rescue, and let’s be honest we get super hungry during our trips. While adding to the cost of fuel, you need to manage your food budget to make your trip pocket friendly and certainly stomach-friendly too. If you are on the go, food is your partner that will charge you up and make you feel energetic to endure the tedious route. Here are some quick food hacks for your trip to be economical.

Stock up from the eatery outlets on the way

Food-Hacks-to-Save-Money-on-a-Trip-01 — Image – Mohit Pareek

Fortunately, you belong to a generation where you can perform any task pin to plane through the internet. Some brands like Domino’s have some of their outlets situated on highways so that you could fill up your hungry stomach with their delicious and quick-to-serve menu. All you have to do to find these outlets is using your mobile by browsing for ‘Pizza near me’ or ‘Eating outlets near me.’ With the wide menu Domino’s have, you can order takeaway food that you can munch on while enjoying the journey. The best part is, they are the eatery which is known to serve and deliver food quickest and cheapest that will save your time and money which you can use to reach your destination punctually and efficiently.

Prepare light food at home and stop only for heavy meals –

Food-Hacks-to-Save-Money-on-a-Trip-02 — Image – Scott Dexter/Flickr

Spending your money completely on food implies that you are not planning for your trip. Prepare and pack light food items like thepla, poha, sandwich, etc, that will not make you stop eating every next hour. While for the meals, something filling like pizzas, paratha pizza, slices of bread, beverages, and desserts can be the correct option, which you can order through Domino’s pizza delivery option through their app that provides heavy discounts.

Carry instant food for the trip –

Food-Hacks-to-Save-Money-on-a-Trip-03 — Image – Nadir Hashmi/Flickr

Ready to make food items like Maggie, upma, soups, etc. that only require the minimum effort of adding hot water to it, and such items are made within minutes and are the go-to for any trip. These come at a reasonable cost and are quite filling for a hungry stomach. You cannot start your trip without stocking up on these. Instant food items require bare minimum effort and cost you a bare minimum too. Carrying instant food is like taking with you a food genie that instantaneously prepares tasty and quick food, granting satisfaction to your cravings during a long trip.

Go for local meals –

Food-Hacks-to-Save-Money-on-a-Trip-04 — Image – pxhere.com

Who isn’t following ‘Vocal for local’ while on a trip try local food filled with rich culture and heritage and the best part is they charge you so less than those expensive cuisines out there. Local meals are healthy and keep your stomach at ease for long hours. Having a local meal at a ‘Dhaba’ is altogether an experience that you won’t ever forget, curated with various spices and herbs, such meals are healthy, pocket friendly, and most importantly nourishing. Stopping for local meals can also make your journey a learning experience as you come to know so much about local food items, their benefits, and the traditions attached to them.

Take dry fruits and healthy snacks along –

Food-Hacks-to-Save-Money-on-a-Trip-05 — Image – Marco Verch/Flickr

Agreed that teaming up with junk food can be satisfying but that also proves to be a waste of money and bad for your health. Instead, pack a bag filled with enriching dry fruits and healthy snacks like protein bars to keep you active instead of bloated up. Few junkies are understandable but continuous munching on them can spoil your journey. Carry healthy snacking options and try to make your trip a blend of healthy and tasty.

Trips are memorable and food adds so much vibe to our journey and that’s why it is essential that we go for wise and budget-friendly choices instead of grabbing our hands over anything and everything we come across. So, while on a trip, put on your favorite song, grab something delicious to eat, and enjoy your journey.

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