5 Lesser Known Beaches Around Chennai You Must Visit

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Lesser-Known-Beaches-Around-Chennai
Photo by Shraddha Agrawal on Unsplash

Being an introvert, and an avid solo traveler, it is often difficult for me to find places to travel which are not full with tourists throughout the year. All you tired folks who are searching for temporary refuge from humankind on quiet, calm beaches of the south, you have come to the right place. 

Here are the top 5 recommendations for lesser-known beaches around Chennai to escape to when the human world becomes overwhelming. You can reach these places easily without any hassle. Simply hire a car in Chennai with a local driver and head for a memorable weekend getaway. 

1. Breezy Beach

Beaches Around Chennai Thiruvanmiyur Beach
Image – Wikimedia

Situated in Valmiki Nagar, Breezy beach is exactly what the name suggests, a breezy getaway to watch a peaceful sunset, away from concerns of everyday life. There is no entry fee, and you also have the Thiruvanmiyur market to spend those extra bucks on. 

There are various restaurants and eateries around the beach like Golden Plates, Flavours Food Lounge, and Arusuvai Arasu. It is well-connected to the Chennai Egmore railway station, making it conveniently accessible. 

The breezy beach is a top choice because it’s the ideal combination of a quiet, tranquil getaway with enough restaurants and markets nearby to lend some company if you feel too lonely.   

2. Bharathiyar Nagar Beach

Beaches-Around-Chennai-Bharathiyar-Nagar-Beach
Image Source

No trip to a beach is complete without an outdoor photoshoot for your social media handles. After all, if you didn’t post it, did it even happen? However, many shy folks can’t channel the inner supermodel under the judgemental public gaze. The unexplored Bharathiyar Nagar beach in Ennore solves this problem.  

If the crowd at Marina gets on your nerves, this is where you can unwind. 

3. Panaiyur Beach

Beaches-Around-Chennai-Panaiyur-Beach
Photo by Ragu Clicks on Unsplash

Panaiyur beach is a relatively lesser-known beach located on ECR road. The beach is popular for its clean sands and tidy environment. The beach is mostly deserted for the better part of the day, but you may find small ice cream shops in the evening. 

This secluded beach provides travellers with solitude and peace. If you are more on the chirpy side, you can chat a bit with the few local fishermen on the beach. 

4. Palavakkam Beach

Beaches-Around-Chennai-Palavakkam-Beach
Image – Kannan B/Flickr

This beach has something for everyone. Palavakkam beach can double as a spiritual retreat as it houses a temple, so your parents and grandparents will get a few quiet minutes with god. It also has a stretch of green which makes it more picturesque. Kids can play here as it is safe, so exhausted parents get a few minutes away from parental duties. 

5. Uthandi Beach

Beaches-Around-Chennai-Uthandi-Beach
Image – Wikimedia

Uthandi beach is another one of those obscure beaches that you feel lucky to have discovered. Away from the hubbub of the main city, Uthandi is a good alternative for people seeking solitude. Alternatively, you can have a private time with friends and family at this quiet and peaceful beach.

Chauffeur driven car rental is the best way of reaching the beach. It is quick and convenient—you can get there in less than an hour in your car. You will find boats lined up along the shore as fishing is the primary occupation. Another attraction of this place is the Matsya Narayana Temple, located around 2 km away. 

Plan a quick weekend getaway to any of these beaches to give yourself some me-time away from the world of mobile notifications, emails, and calls.

Indian Flatbreads You Must Taste to Celebrate the Food Culture of India

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Indian Flatbread
Image-Isabelle Boucher/Flickr

Hot piping meals are one of the most delicious elements of Indian cuisine. The aromatic curries that are spiced up with flavors however need to be complemented. Though rice and pulaos do blend in with Indian curry, the real yin to this yang is the sumptuous flatbread.

Flatbread in India is as varied as one can imagine. It could be the plain and simple chapati or the ghee-laden parathas. One could devour dishes that are dipped over bajra and jowar rotlas or experience the softness of dosas and appams melt in the mouth. The regional variation in the preparation and consumption of Indian flat pieces of bread is an endearing study into how a simple staple food can have far-reaching cultural and social effects. 

But to not make matters complicated let’s see things as they are. The flatbread in India comes in different sizes, shapes, and colors. They can be layered, unleavened, or just simply rounded off. 

They could be stuffed or plain, sprinkled with garnishing or buttered. No matter the dough type, the batter, or all the other titbits that go into it, the fact of the matter remains – Flatbreads in India are unique and delicious. They enhance the flavors of the curries, but they can be eaten as stand-alone too. They are nutritious, healthy, and wholesome meals by themselves as well.

What are flatbreads?

Indian-Flatbread-2
Image-s4’s world/Flickr

Before we take a gastronomic tour of the different types of flatbreads eaten and made in India, let’s understand what flatbread means. A flatbread is made from flour mixed with water and salt. The ingredients are mixed to make a dough which is then rolled or flattened. The flatbreads could be unleavened or leavened. The thickness of the flatbread can also vary from a few millimeters to a few centimeters. Once the flatbread is given a shape it can be baked, cooked on a Tawa, fried, or even grilled.

 Some of the most famous international flatbreads include pizzas, pitas, tortas, khubz, etc. Some of the most popular Indian flatbreads include roti, parathas, puri, kulchas, bhakri, bhatura, appams, and more. 

Flatbreads in India

There are a whole range and variety of flatbreads that are found in India. Let’s take a look at some of these delicious delicacies. 

1. Chapati/Roti/Rumali roti

Indian-Flatbread-Chappati
Indian-KittyKaht/Wikimedia

Up first is the simpleton roti or chapatti. A staple food in many homes, the roti is an everyday dish eaten with different curries or snacks.

The roti is usually made from flour or atta and the dough is rolled with a rolling pin. The roti is then cooked on a pan or Tawa and sometimes sprinkled with ghee or oil. The rumali roti, on the other hand, is made from a mix of wheat and white flour and is cooked in a traditional Tawa. It is super thin as suggested by the name meaning rumaal or a handkerchief. There are, of course, umpteen variations of the roti, including tandoori roti, makkai ki roti, bajra roti, jowar roti, and so on. 

2. Paratha/Parotta

Indian-Flatbread-Porotta
Image-Russelak1976/Wikimedia

The north and the south Indian version of the paratha and parotta differ only slightly. Paratha is the specialty of north India but is famous almost everywhere too. 

They are soft and chewy and also have flakes coming off the surface. The word is derived from parat meaning layers and atta or flour. The parotta is southern India’s delight and is made from maida or white flour. Of course, there are many variations, such as the famous Malabar parotta from Kerala or the delicious lachha parathas, aloo parathas, gobi parathas, the list can go on.

3. Puri/Luchi

Indian-Flatbread-Poori
Image-Nadir Hashmi/Flickr

Puri or pooris are deep-fried and usually are smaller in size when compared to rotis. These can be prepared from maida or wheat flour and are best served when hot. The unleavened flatbread is best eaten with vegetable curry or chickpeas. Luchi is another version of the puri and is popular in West Bengal. Another interesting thing about puri is that it is also eaten as a snack in many parts of the country, especially in western India. The puri, in this case, is usually flavored with a few spices and can be stored for days.

4. Bhatoora

Indian-Flatbread-Bhatoora
Image-Nadir Hashmi/Flickr

Similar to the puri but much larger the bhatoora is the better half of the lip-smacking chhole bhatoore. A popular street food, and much-loved dish at home and restaurants, the chhole bhatoore is north India, especially Delhi’s go-to food. The bhatoora is made from maida, yogurt, and yeast to help it swell up a bit. Usually accompanied by a glass of lassi the bhatoora is sure to tingle your taste buds.

5. Naan 

Indian-Flatbread-Naan
Image-Gagandeep Sapra/Flickr

The leavened flatbread called naan is the favorite for tandoor lovers. Cooked inside a tandoor, clay, or metal oven, the naan can also be prepared at home in the oven or pan. Served with curries or even dry starters, the naan has various incarnations, such as garlic naan, butter naan, and so on. When dining in an Indian restaurant be sure to check out the naan on the menu, it’s bound to be there for sure. 

6. Bhakri 

Indian Flatbreads Bhakri 01
Image by Veerendra Tikhe from Pixabay

A flatbread that originated from Maharashtra the bhakri can be cooked on a Tawa or also puffed up. The bhakri however, finds its presence even in the humble homes of farmers who carry it with them to the fields for lunch. The bhakri is made from jowar, sorghum and even ragi. Accompanied by baigan bharta, the bhakri becomes the ultimate healthy intake. Another flatbread from Maharashtra is the thalipeeth made from a mix of different flours, such as rice, chickpea, jowar, bajra, etc. 

7. Appam

Indian-Flatbread-Appam
Image-Krishna Kumar/Flickr

From south India comes this light as breeze flatbread that one can gobble quickly. The appam is soft and made from rice flour and coconut milk. Dipped in gravies both vegetarian or non-vegetarian the appam spreads a warmth of satisfaction and content once popped inside the mouth. 

8. Akki Rotti/Pathiri

Indian-Flatbreads-Akki-Rotti
Image – Wikimedia

Known as Akki Rotti in Karnataka and quite similar to pathiri in Kerala this wonderfully thin flatbread is made from rice flour. Usually, the rotis have onions and green chilies in them and are cooked on the Tawa. Sometimes many other ingredients, such as carrots, coriander, cumin, etc are also added for flavor.

9. Thepla/Chillas 

Indian-Flatbread-Thepla
Image-Rocky231293/Wikimedia

Where most flatbreads are made from either wheat, white flour, rice flour or other millet flours there are a few whose main ingredients slightly differ. Theplas for example are made from gram flour and wheat flour along with spices to add flavor. Theplas are the perfect vacation or holiday snacks that can be carried for longer trips. It is, of course, the most famous in Gujarat. The chilla on the other hand to has many variations. The most popular are the besan chillas and the moong dal chillas. Chillas are quite a hit street food in West Bengal and northern India. 

10. Baati/Litti 

Indian-Flatbread-Baati
Image-Vinay Sah/Wikimedia

Who doesn’t crave a dal baati churma? The delicious recipe from Rajasthan is impossible to imagine without the baati or rounded flatbreads. Quite similar to the baati is the litti from Bihar which is stuffed with sattu and baked in clay ovens. The litti is served with a dish made from potatoes and brinjals called chokha. 

The different types of flatbreads in India are many. The dosa, pesarattu, adai, Puran Poli, bakarkhani, sheermal, and many more are delightful delicacies that are so profound in their gastronomical capacity and cultural presence. 

The flatbreads of India resonate with the land from where they come and the people who take a lot of care to create them. Layered inside them are traditions and cultures passed on from generations. There are tales, folklores, and secret ingredients of practicality and taste. For all of these reasons, whether it be the roti or bhakri or appam, their reach goes beyond superfluous divides of class or caste. They feed those who look for strength, pleasure, and survival with the same measure of proportion and care. 

Ruins to Resurrection – Madras High Court Made a Benchmark Ruling on Conservation of Architectural Heritage

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Author – N.Kavitha Rameshwar

Madras High Court Made a Benchmark Ruling on Conservation of Architectural Heritage
Image by Sreesai

A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots -Marcus Garvey

The recent ruling of the Madras High Court in a suo motu PIL, on conservation of architectural heritage including ancient monuments and temples seems to have captured in extenso what Joseph Joubert, the French essayist said –“Monuments are the grappling-irons that bind one generation to another”.

Decoding the civilizational DNA-

History bequeaths heritage- the heritage of art, culture, tradition, folklore, architecture and various other forms of antiquity, the primary purpose of which is to mirror the life and ethos of the bygone civilizations. India is home to several marvels of art and architecture in their kaleidoscopic grandeur, and which has stood the test of time and nature’s calamitous upheavals. The history of a nation can simplistically be said to be the sum total of the lives of its people, whether classified politically as rulers and subjects, or governments and their citizens. The High Court in its poignant 224-page judgment was primarily concerned with conservation of archaeological monuments in the State of Tamil Nadu. However what has been said in the prelude to the operative portion of the judgment, would serve as a synecdoche on the issue to the whole of our country, universal in its application and emphasizing more than once that the symbols of history act as a protective carapace for the civilization of the present and the future generations. While holding that “a monument, a sculpture or scripture is not just a record of historical fact but is a testimony to the knowledge, culture, tradition and lifestyle of the people”, the Court has sought to view the architectural heritage, artistic splendour and the sagacious scriptures of the yesteryears as a means to decode the civilizational DNA of our generation. The Court has reaffirmed the thought that architecture is the biggest unwritten document of history. 

A thorough reading of the judgment would bring to light the engineering marvels that the Periakovil (BrihadeeswararTemple) of Thanjavur, Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple, Shore Temple of Mamallapuram embody, and the scientific temper and knowledge that have animated their construction. These structures have then become not only monuments of heritage but also structures of monumental artistic and architectural grandeur, showcasing a deep knowledge of the pure sciences of physics and geometry to mention a few. 

Woven with silken secular threads –

A striking feature that runs like a connecting vein through the entire judgment is an acknowledgement of the fact that architecture and art transcend narrow and parochial boundaries of religion, region as well as language and cultural traditions. This is made further prominent by the fact that the Court has employed the doctrine of ‘parens patriae’ while issuing its various mandates and directions acting as ‘the parent of the citizen’. The Madras High Court has decisively dusted off the cobwebs and brought back to life the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958 (the 1958 Act) in its full bloom and application to the monuments in the State in order to declare that all temples which are more than hundred years old are to be treated as monuments under the 1958 Act. In some portions of the judgment, the Court has even used the words ‘temple’ and ‘monument’ interchangeably, thereby underlining the fact that ancient monuments and architectural structures, and materials classified as ‘antiquity’ belong to the State and its citizens and that no individual, group, entity can lay claim on the same. This factor is of primordial importance in furthering the Directive Principles of State Policy that calls upon the State to preserve our rich heritage and composite culture.

The Court has made a detailed study of all the judgments holding the field including the judgment in the case of Archaeological survey of India versus State of Madhya Pradesh (2014), where the question was whether the Jain temples including the temple of “Bade Baba” could be classified as a monument and whether the ASI would have jurisdiction over it. In the said case, the Court held that in the circumstances of the case that where the State Act had received the assent of the President, the Jain temples in question would not come within the jurisdiction of the ASI as monuments. The said case would stand on a different footing as the legal issue involved was with respect to the repugnancy of the state law vis-à-vis the central law and in which case Article 246 of the Constitution was invoked. This judgment cannot stand in the way of the 1958 Act being brought into play for conservation of monuments (including temples) under the control of the ASI. 

Role of the temple as a unifying factor- 6th century AD onwards-

Since the present judgment is primarily concerned with architectural heritage with specific reference to constituting a Heritage Commission as also to set up the Mamallapuram World Heritage Area Management Authority to safeguard the archaeological monuments in the State of Tamil Nadu, it is important to place in context the role of the temple in South India during the second half of the first millennium A.D. A reading of historical sources would reveal that that the building, maintenance, administration as well as expression of art and culture in the form of music and dance melding into the temple ritual were a way of life for the people of the day during the sixth century A.D. onwards. Established historian Romila Thapar would tell us that the vogue established by the Buddhists for excavating cave temples continued and the patrons vied with each other in having shrines and temples excavated in the Deccan Hills and further south. In the freestanding temples of the South as well as in cave temples, murals were common. Here again it is important to note that in a rock cut temple, sculpture cannot be added on therefore every detail of positioning had to be planned in advance. The cutting of the rock required extremely careful control as a wrong move could win a sculpture or the architectural form. The rock cut temples were introduced in the Pallava period, akin to the Buddhist cave shrines, but much smaller and showing evidence of preliminary stages of an artistic technique. The monolithic temples at Mahabalipuram carved out of granite boulders still carry the barrel vault roofs and arch waves generally associated with the Buddhist cave shrines of the Deccan as well as contemporary architectural styles, and have features distinctively different from other architecture of the North. At this juncture it is important to note that due credence deserves to be placed on record to the stonecutters, masons, inlayers, masons, painters, calligraphers and other workmen who have toiled for decades together, as well as all those who undertook the massive expenditure which could be said to be equivalent to a major military campaign. The freestanding temples at Kancheepuram and Mahabalipuram also provided for the spaces for sculpture. As many of these temples were built by the kings, they carried assertions of royal authority which could take the form of lengthy inscriptions narrating the history of the King or could be sculptured panels, such as ones with his biography or his consecration. It is therefore seen that the temples built with such in-depth knowledge of science cannot be treated only as a symbol of religion but as an emblem of architecture, sculpture, murals, paintings and other forms of art that has embedded within it an indelible aesthetically secular imprint. 

Shouldering the bequest-

All these aspects have been succinctly and yet elaborately encapsulated in the judgment, which has found its unique place in the corpus of the law dealing with the conservation of historical heritage. This iconic judgment further underscores that conserving the past is important not just for an exponent of history but for an entire future civilization while pointing out that though architecture speaks of its time and age, its allure lies in its timelessness. It is fervently hoped that the extensive and detailed directions of the Court will be adhered to with the same fervour with which they have been rendered, in order that the Court’s vision of immortalizing the awe-inspiring creations of architecture, and its avowed mission of preserving their legacy for eons of humanity, is achieved.

6 Boat Races of Kerala You Must Witness for a Breathtaking Experience

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Boat-Races-of-Kerala
Image – Wikimedia

Ask anyone who has ever been to Kerala about their most exciting experience in the state and I’m sure that their answer absolutely would be the amazing boat races of Kerala. These will surely keep you on your edge and keep you questioning as to who will win till the very end. The colorful boats come in a variety of shapes and sizes and also form a major attraction of these races as well as the fanfare surrounding them only add to the overall entrancing nature of these. Throughout the state of Kerala, boat races are conducted in the mesmerizing backwaters with every race having its specialty. Let us know more about some of the most popular boat races of Kerala.

1. Nehru Trophy Boat Race

Boat races in Kerala- Nehru Trophy Boat Race
Image/Avinash Singh/Flickr

One of the most prominent boat races of Kerala, The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is held on the second Saturday of August every single year and serves as a major tourist attraction of the state. People gather in large numbers to witness the nearly 30-meter-long boats competing with each other in groups, at Punnamada Lake, where participants line up to compete in this fascinating race. The history of this mesmerizing affair can be traced back to 1952 when Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru visited Kerala. Upon perceiving these marvelous boats, he, in a surprising move, climbed onto one. Later that year, he made a generous donation of one silver snake boat in remembrance of his visit and that is how this competition derived its name. During the race season, majestic water parades and other activities are held in the area. This race remains an experience that you will never forget for this race is nothing short of art itself.

2. Champakulam Moolam (Snake) Boat Race

Boat-Races-of-Kerala-Champakulam Moolam Boat Race
Image – Rajesh_India/Flickr

Talking about the boat races of Kerala and not talking about the legendary race Champakulam is impossible for this is practically synonymous with the regatta of boat races, a significant part of Kerala’s heritage. This race is held every year and is one of the oldest races in the state. It is conducted at the river of Pampas customarily in June and July, located in a city in the Alappuzha region. This is a fascinating competition that is a must-see and is an amazing experience.

3. Aranmula Vallamkali Boat Race

Boat races in Kerala-Aranmula Vallamkali Boat Race
Image/Wikimedia

The Aranmula Uthrattadi Vallamkali is one of the state’s most ancient and infamous boat races. Organized between August and September, or Chingam as per the Malayalam calendar, the race is an event that attracts tourists from all over the country. It features boats called palliyodams which are beautifully ornamented and a sight to see. They are in fact, dedicated to Lord Parthasarathy, which is why this race customarily occurs on the day of the installation of the namesake temple. Before the race, you can observe men with decorated parasols walking up to their boats with melodious traditional songs serving as the background music.

4. Payippad Boat Race

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Image – Kannan Palayathil

The origin of this breathtaking boat race lies in legend. It is said that inhabitants of a distant town received instructions to reach a body of water in a dream. When they reached the place they were alluded to in the Kayamkulam Lake, what they found is something you’ll not believe, a truly exquisite idol of Hindu deity, Sri Subramanya. Today, among the myriad races that occur in the backwaters and lakes of Kerala, this boat race may just be perhaps the most anticipated. Organized at the river of Payippad located in Alappuzha, it occurs in the remembrance of the installation of the idol at the namesake temple. This boat race is surrounded by indescribable fanfare and a cheerfully lovely aura.

5. Uthradam Thirunal Pamba Boat Race

Boat races in Kerala-Uthradam Thirunal Pamba Boat Race
Image – Thirunal Pamba Boatrace

Another prominent boat race of God’s Own Country, this race is held during the auspicious festival of Onam (the state festival of Kerala) and that is why it observes large participation by locals. It is conducted at the river Pamba.

Any spectator of this marvelous boat race is filled with vigor and excitement which is why this race is characterized by large crowds of people, all enthusiastic to watch this delight. We can witness the majestic snake boats, synonymous with the identity of Kerala practically cutting the water in half as they sail ahead while people in the audience sing along to boat songs, which enhances the fervor associated with this race.

6. Karuvatta Boat Race

Boat-Races-of-Kerala-Karuvatta-Boat-Race
Image – Vinod Kumar M Nair

This might just be the most looked forward to race that occurs in the mighty waters of Kerala. This race is held at the Thottaappally Spillway with its highlight easily being the boats on which the participants spend weeks working and perfecting it right down to every carving. This race additionally serves as a major tourist attraction and was attended by 75,000 people in 2018. These races are a unique experience for everyone watching and are truly spectacular for there is nothing that they don’t possess. The artistic abilities of the local craftsmen are brought out by these competitions, the melodious songs are acting as the background music and of course, the ever so enthusiastic audience.

The thrill you achieve while merely witnessing from afar is unbelievable. It is rightly said, “The heights that remain unexplored, the unconventional wonders of the Earth that are left for us to see are what make it worthwhile” So pack your bags and set out on your journey to witness true thrill and adventure for in the world, everything and nothing is perfect at the same time. Let us know in the comments section below about the Kerala Boat Race that caught your eye!

8 Forts of Kerala You Must Visit to Explore the Rich Heritage of the State

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Forts of Kerala You Must Visit
Forts of Kerala You Must Visit

When we speak of Kerala, the first thing which pops up in our minds is the luscious greenery and exuberant natural bounty that the state possesses. The long highways, playful mountains, and splendid waterfalls are well renowned all over the globe and thus collectively, they are called ‘God’s own country’. However, while Kerala does, undoubtedly, have a vast treasury of natural resources, it is not far behind in terms of history either. Kerala is plenty endowed when it comes to history and culture and a strong testimonial to this would be the grand forts of Kerala. These forts speak for themselves. They expertly showcase all those magnificent stories of Kerala which are yet unknown to most. These hidden gems resonate with a rich historical heritage about the empires gone by and deserve to be heard by every single person. So come along and read about some of the best and most interesting forts of Kerala!

1. Palakkad Fort

Forts of Kerala-Palakkad Fort
Image/Wikimedia

Any place associated with Tipu Sultan is bound to be nothing short of fascinating, and this remains true in the case of the Fort of Palakkad as well. This amazing fort was constructed in its present form by Hyder Ali in the year 1766 before it was annexed by the British sometime later. The fort is also called ‘Hanuman Kotta’ due to the presence of a tiny shrine dedicated to the Lord. It is often believed that Tipu Sultan would worship the Lord and would pray to him to protect them against enemies often. Currently, the Palakkad Special Sub Jail is also housed inside the fort as well A children’s play area provides a good resting place for tourists to enjoy the panoramic view.

2. Bekal Fort

Forts of Kerala-Bekal Fort
Image/Renjith Sasidharan/Flickr

If you wish to visit the largest fort in the state of Kerala, Bekal Fort is your place to be. The spectacular Bekal Fort was constructed sometime in the 17th century and it is located on a long piece of land, stretching to 40 acres. Originally built by Shivappa Nayaka of Kaledi, several Archaeological sources suggest that Tipu Sultan, and his father Hyder Ali before him, had extensive control over the Fort. The fort served as a strategic military base for Tipu Sultan he had and made several advances in it. One special aspect of the fort is the fact that about three-quarters of its outer side touches the water. There are several other structures in the fort which are worth exploring as well. Visit the Bekal Fort to witness the fine history of the place!

3. Thalassery Fort

Forts of Kerala-Thalassery Fort
Image/Wikimedia

Located in the Kannur district of Kerala, the Thalassery Fort was an important hold for trading and supervision under the British raj. It is also a symbol of the once expanding powers of the British and was crucial in the development of Thalassery. The fort is built with colossal walls and many trap doors. It is situated in proximity to the ocean and is built squarely. Get a taste of the authentic history of Kerala by visiting the Thalassery Fort!

4. Pallipuram Fort

Forts of Kerala-Pallipuram Fort
Image/Wikimedia

A splendid structure indeed, the Pallipuram Fort happens to be the oldest structure built by the Europeans in Kerala. Lesser-known as Castelo em Cima, this brilliant fort was established by the Portuguese only to be captured by the Dutch in the later centuries. The fort is hexagonal and itself contains several trap doors within its premises. The Fort is surrounded by dense vegetation and is frequented by tourists every year.

5. St.Angelo Fort

Forts of Kerala-St. Angelo Fort
Image/Wikimedia

Located in Kannur (and is also known as Kannur Fort), St Angelo Fort is an important landscape in the pages of history. The fort was constructed under the supervision of Francisco de Almeida. The history of the Fort follows the arrival of Vasco Da Gama in India for the first time. When he arrived at the Malabar coast, he was given a piece of land to build on by the local ruler. Consequently, Da Gama appointed Francisco de Almeida in charge of the construction of the Fort. Presently, the fort is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India and is an important historical landmark.

6. Anjengo Fort

Forts of Kerala-Anjengo Fort
Image/Wikimedia

The Anjengo Fort, also popular as Anchuthengu Fort, is a historical fort situated in Varkala. It was established in the 17th century and was the first framework of imperial rule in Kerala. Many believe that the site was gifted to the British by the local queen of Attingal to carry out trade and commerce. Today, the place is charming with a backwater and a beach on either side. One will also find coconut grooves at the Fort which only add to its beauty. The Anjengo Fort is a fine picnic spot and is famous amongst tourists for its architectural and natural resources.

7. East Fort

Forts of Kerala-East Fort
Image/Wikimedia

Slightly different from all the other forts, the East Fort (or Kizhakke Kotta) is situated at the heart of Thiruvananthapuram. The busy street once housed the entire city within the premises of the fort. When traveling within the Fort area, one will come across several old forts and palaces formerly used by the royal family. The East Fort is also an important commercial area hustling and bustling with people throughout the year.

8. Chendamangalam Fort

Forts of Kerala You Must Visit
Forts of Kerala You Must Visit

The Chendamangalam Fort is one of the oldest living structures in Kerala, having been established about 450 years ago. The Fort is surrounded by soul-soothing forestry and tourists can also visit the neighboring churches, temples, and mosques. The fort showcases several numerous historical relics, sources, and artifacts. Truly a quaint destination!

These ancient forts teach us about the absorbing history of these places. Indeed, it is said that our past still plays an indispensable part in our present and by studying the past, one can prepare for the future. The stories that such forts narrate form the basis of our cultural heritage and identity. Doubtlessly, to preserve our heritage, it is most crucial to pass on these resources to our younger generations and make a point to know about them. So, the next time you’re in Kerala, do make a point to pay a visit to these fabulous places with your friends and family!

12 Spellbinding Things You Must Try Out While Visiting Kerala!

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Things-to-do-in-Kerala
Photo by Anantha Krishnan

Kerala, a state located in southern India, has been blessed with serene lakes, backwaters, gardens, and scenic beauty and when it comes to things to try out in Kerala, the list could go on forever for the state has truly a plethora to offer. So, the question remains: What to do and what not to do? It is the geographical equivalent of Netflix, there’s so much you can watch, that you spend most of the time deciding. That is where we come in, to serve as your guide on the top things to do in Kerala.

1. Stay in a Houseboat

Things-to-do-in-Kerala-Stay-in-a-Houseboat-01
Photo by Abhishek Prasad

The Backwaters of Kerala are nothing if not an absolute delight to witness. The peace and calm you achieve cruising the waters while staying in these houseboats remain unmatched. These houseboats possess the comforts of a five-star hotel and more with the obvious plus of the picturesque view outside. Overnight trips are recommended for they allow you to explore the rural beauty of Kerala. The houseboats at Alleppey and Kumarakom are a must-stay.

2. Eat a Meal on a Banana Leaf

Things to do in Kerala-Meal on a Banana Leaf
Image/Pixabay

You haven’t encompassed the experience of staying in Kerala unless you have eaten a meal on a banana leaf. The delicious Kerala cuisine includes rasam, appam with stew, coconut toddy, sadhya (a special meal prepared during festivals), erissery and so much more. The flavors of these already mouth-watering dishes are enhanced when you eat with your hands on a banana leaf.

3. Tour Spice and Tea Plantations

Things to do in Kerala-Tour Spice and Tea Plantations
Image/Wikimedia

Envision yourself touring a plantation, surrounded by mesmerizing greenery while taking in the fragrance of spices and teas. That is the experience you will receive when touring the spice and tea plantations of Kerala. You might also get to try out the delightful tea grown here as well as some spice plantations that also offer dishes prepared using the spices grown and you simply must take them up on it.

4. Bamboo Rafting at Wayanad

Things-to-do-in-Kerala-Bamboo-Rafting-at-Wayanad-01
Image – YamezA/Flickr

The region Wayanad in Kerala is synonymous with adventure and to truly experience the thrill of the place, bamboo-rafting is your go-to. The raft made from bamboo is very comfortable as opposed to what one might think due to the presence of cushion-like seats for you to sit. The ups and downs in the streams of water make the ride all the more exciting.

5. Witness the Neelakurinji Bloom

Things to do in Kerala-Neelakurinji Blooms
Image/Navaneeth Kishor/Flickr

The phenomenon is the Neelakurinji Bloom that attracts thousands of tourists to the Munnar hills. Just being there and taking in the blue-purple flowers will send you into a trance. They are rare to witness due to their bloom taking place once every 12 years, so don’t forget to mark your calendar in anticipation of this majestic bloom.

6. Get Enchanted by Kathakali

Things to do in Kerala- Get enchanted by Kathakali
Image/Steve Curati/Flickr

The vibrant dance of Kathakali is a specialty of the art forms of Kerala. The elaborate costumes, heavy makeup, and masks used in the performance are what make them one of a kind. This dance portrays a story beautifully through the strategic use of expressions and movements and this is a performance so breath-taking that everyone should definitely witness.

7. Stay in a Treehouse

Things to do in Kerala- Stay in a Treehouse
Image/Pandiyan V/Flickr

For every nature lover, if your trip to Kerala does not involve a stay in a treehouse, then think again. One prominent treehouse is the Jungle Jive Tree House which provides you with a sense of tranquility as well as a mesmerizing view of the mountains. Another one is the Dream Catcher Resort which is situated amidst spice plantations where the fragrance of the place will simply overtake you.

8. Visit an Ayurvedic Centre

Things to do in Kerala- Visit Ayurvedic Centre
Image – Adams Homestay Cochin/Flickr

The only state that considers Ayurveda to be mainstream medicine, it’s quite easy to spot Ayurvedic centers in Kerala. Various hotels here also offer ayurvedic massages. Here at these centers, your well-being is approached holistically. This massage can only be described as rejuvenating and will erase all your anxiety and tension.

9. Marvel at Kalaripayattu

Things to do in Kerala-Marvel at Kalaripayattu
Image/Wikimedia

The mother of all art forms, Kalaripayattu is enthralling to watch. Being one of the oldest martial arts to survive, it possesses a rich history. The techniques and weapons utilized in the execution of this are what make it stand out. It also incorporates massage and meditation and strives for a balance between body and mind. Because of this, Kalaripayattu has rightly been considered a martial art form that has it all.

10. Elephant Rides

Things to do in Kerala-Elephant Rides
Image/Wikimedia

Festivals in Kerala are incomplete without an elephant march, the same trip here is incomplete without an elephant ride. It is the perfect activity for an adventure lover. The regions of Munnar and Thekkady house various junctions from where you can partake in this exhilarating adventure. For nature-lovers, there’s a cherry on top for you can actually take an elephant ride deeper into the forests to explore the unknown.

11. Temple Tour

Things to do in Kerala-Visit Temples
Image/Wikimedia

Kerala is home to countless holy temples such as the Vadakkunnathan Temple, Sivagiri Temple, Tali Temple and so many more. A tour of these will bring out the divinity in you and it would be a spiritual experience. A must-visit, for example, is the Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple at Thiruvananthapuram which is an exemplary portrayal of Dravidian architecture.

12. Observe a Boat Race

Things to do in Kerala-Boat Race
Image/Wikimedia

The boat races of Kerala will keep you on edge, with the fanfare of the enthusiastic spectators and the thrill of boats overtaking from time to time making you constantly wonder as to who might win. The various colorful snake boats also form a major attraction of these races. Vallam Kali is a boat race festival that you certainly must attend to witness for yourself the exciting nature of these boat races.

These experiences are only the tip of what Kerala offers, which will enrich your life in ways you might not have imagined. After all, experiences are what change our perception of the world and help shape us into our best selves. If not, you’ll still have a great story. It was Dr. Steve Maraboli who put it best, “Happiness is not something to be achieved but something to be experienced.”

How to Find Sea Nymph Boat Parts

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Sea nymph

Finding SN (sea nymph) boat parts has been one of the most difficult tasks because it has been out of business for years now. You have a sea nymph boat and some parts require to be replaced. As it is harder than before to find the parts for your boat, you might be worried about it, right? You are not alone because those who have the same boat are also tense.

The good news is you can still find sea nymph boat parts still today. But you need to do extensive research so that you can get those parts for your boat. Also, you can check Boatoutfitters because they have a huge collection of boat parts both OEM and aftermarket.

However, the article will help you find sea nymph boat parts for your boat, and you will be able to restore your sea nymph boat again. So, without wasting your valuable time, let’s start with the ways to find necessary boat parts for you, right?

Why is it necessary to find OEM Sea Nymph Parts?

When your Sea Nymph boat needs a repair, the last thing you want to do is search for hours on end for the right OEM part. Not only is it frustrating, but it can also be time-consuming. Here are a few reasons why it’s so important to find OEM Sea Nymph parts for your boat:

  1. OEM parts are made to fit your specific model of boat. This means they’re guaranteed to fit properly and function as intended. Using non-OEM parts can lead to installation problems and decreased performance.
  2. OEM parts are built with quality in mind. They’re constructed using high-quality materials and undergo rigorous testing before being released for sale. In contrast, non-OEM parts may not meet the same standards of quality and could potentially damage your boat.
  3. OEM parts are designed and manufactured to be durable. They’re made from the highest quality materials, which means they can withstand the wear and tear that comes with regular use. In contrast, non-OEM parts are often not as durable or built to last.

How to find sea nymph boat parts

The sea nymph boat is a classic boat that has been around for many years. However, if you need to find parts for the boat, it can be difficult to know where to start. Here are a few tips on how to find the parts that you need. The first place to start is by looking online.

There are many websites that sell parts for boats, and chances are good that you will be able to find what you need. Another option is to go to a local boat store. They may not have the exact part that you need, but they may be able to help you find it or point you in the right direction.

If all else fails, you can try contacting the manufacturer of the boat. They may be able to help you find the part that you need or direct you to a retailer who sells them.

eBay can help you find sea nymph parts

eBay is a great place to find sea nymph parts. I was able to find a sea nymph tail and a sea nymph dress on eBay for a great price. I was also able to find a sea nymph wig on eBay. The wig fit perfectly, and it was a great price. I would definitely recommend eBay for anyone looking for sea nymph parts.

Craigslist can help you find sea nymph parts

Craigslist can help you find sea nymph parts. You can search for the specific part you need or browse through all the listings to find the best deal. Parts are available for both sail and power boats, so you’re sure to find what you need.

Boat Parts stores can help you find sea nymph parts

When searching for parts to repair or restore a boat, many boaters turn to their local boat parts stores. Stores that specialize in selling boat parts and accessories can be a great resource for finding the specific pieces you need to fix up your sea nymph.

In addition to stocking a wide variety of parts, these stores also often have knowledgeable staff that can help you find the right part for your boat and give you advice on how to fix it. If you’re not sure where to start, a quick Google search for “boat parts store near me” should help you find the nearest store to you.

Online forums can be a great place to find sea nymph boat parts

Sea nymph boat parts can often be difficult to find, but online forums can be a great place to look. There are many forums dedicated to specific hobbies or interests, and sea nymph boat parts are no exception.

By searching for the specific term “sea nymph boat parts” on one of these forums, you can often find people who are selling or giving away the parts you need. In addition, you can also find people who might be able to help you with repairs or modifications.

If you are in the market for a used sea nymph boat, be prepared to search long and hard for parts. Sea nymph boat parts are not easy to find, and when you do find them, they are often very expensive. If you are lucky enough to find a part that is still in production, be prepared to pay a premium price.

Indian Folk Artists Who Brought their Folk Art to the World Stage

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India is culturally diverse and has always portrayed cultural and traditional liveliness through its conventional art forms. Each state of India has its own cultural and traditional identity and is unique in its style. India has a rich legacy of folk and tribal arts that we have even reached the international market. Some of India’s most famous folk art forms of India are Warli, MadhubaniChittara, Pata Chitra, Mandana and Gond art. Let’s take a look at some of the great Indian folk artists who have mad big impact in the art world:

1. Jamini Roy

Indian-Folk-Artist-Jamini-Roy
Image – Wikimedia

Jamini Roy was one of the most significant modernists of Indian art. Born on 11 April 1887, he was a world-renowned Indian painter. He studied at the Government College of Art, Kolkata where the vice principal was Abanindranath Tagore, the founder of Bengal school. He became one of the most famous pupils. Jamini Roy received his Diploma in Fine Arts in the year 1908. He was taught to paint in oils and classical nudes. For inspiration, he looked at animals and was most influenced by the Howler Monkeys. He started paintings random monkeys but none seemed to like them so he started as a commissioned portrait painter and later changed his style to Bengali folk traditions. He took up simple forms and flat colors.

Jamini Roy rejected the modern style and stuck to his roots and painted in Bengali folk style. His work included scenes from rural life and featured Santal women, a tribal community originating in India. He produced 20,000 paintings in his lifetime because of which he was also known as an ‘art machine’. He preferred to not sell his work if he doubted that the buyer would not take care of it and he would even buy back his work if he found out that it was maintained poorly. He only wanted his paintings to be well-preserved which is why he did not even care about the price.

Jamini Roy was awarded the Viceroy’s Gold Medal in 1935 and the Padma Bhushan in 1954. He was made the first Fellow of the Lalit Kala Akademi in 1955. In 1976, his works were declared among the “Nine Masters” whose works were then considered national treasures. Jamini Roy passed away in 1972.

2. Baua Devi

Indian-Folk-Artist-Baua-Devi
Image Source

Baua Devi is a Mithila or Madhubani painting artist born in Jitwarpur village of Madhubani district in Bihar. The Mithila or Madhubani style of Indian painting originated there. It is done with a variety of tools like fingers, nib-pens, twigs, brushes, matchsticks and natural dye is used. It is known for its complex geometric and linear patterns on the walls of the inner chambers of a house. Later, it was done on handmade paper and canvases.

Baua Devi is doing Mithila art for almost 60 years. She was a teenager when she met a Mumbai artist, Bhaskar Kulkarni who encouraged her to work and took her works to the museum. Prime Minister Narendra Modi even gifted one of her paintings to Stefan Schosstok, the Mayor of Hanover. Her paintings include Lord Krishna, Ram, and Sita. She narrates mythological stories through her work and her themes include the wedding of Rama and Sita and scenes from the epics Mahabharata and Ramayana. She won the National Award in 1984 and received the Padma Shri by the Government of India in 2017.

3. Jangarh Singh Shyam

Indian-Folk-Artist-Jangarh-Singh-Shyam
Left Image- Wikimedia, Right Image – Jean-Pierre Dalbéra/Flickr

Born in 1962, Jangarh Singh Shyam was an Indian artist whose work was exhibited broadly all over the world like Bhopal, Delhi, Tokyo, and New York. The Magiciens de la Terre in Paris in 1989 was one of his most notable exhibitions. He even painted the interiors of the Vidhan Bhavan, the Legislative Assembly of Madhya Pradesh, and one of the most prestigious tribal and contemporary Indian art museums, the dome of Bhopal’s Bharat Bhavan. He was a Gond Art Legend; Gonds are one of the oldest tribes of India known for their vibrant artworks.

Jangarh Singh Shyam was the flagbearer of Gond art and he is the person because of which this art form is popular today. He is also known as the first Adivasi artist who became so popular. He even created a new school of Indian art called the ‘Jangarh Kalam’. His famous paintings include leaping tigers, images of Gondi deities, birds and peacocks, etc. He died in mysterious circumstances in 2001.

4. Bhajju Shyam

Indian-Folk-Artist-Bhajju-Shyam
Image Source

Bhajju Shyam or Bhajju Singh Shyam is an apprentice of renowned Gond artist, Jangarh Singh Shyam. Born in 1971, Bhajju Shyam has exhibited broadly in the Museum of London and the UK, Germany, Holland, Italy, and Russia tour. Like Jangarh Singh Shyam, Bhajju Shyam also belongs to the Gond-Pardhaan community of Madhya Pradesh and his artistic career began from Bharat Bhavan in Bhopal.

He received the Padma Shri in 2018. He even wrote his book on illustrations, The London Jungle Book in 2004, which was internationally recognized and made the Pardhaan Folk Art well-known. After this, he wrote many books like The Night Life of Trees in 2006, Alone in the Forest in 2013, and Creation in 2015. He mostly works on paper and canvas but can also work on a mural or three-dimensional objects. Bhajju Shyam is one of the most popular Gond artists.

5. Jivya Soma Mashe

Indian-Folk-Artist-JJivya-Soma-Mashe
Left Image – Wikimedia, Right Image – Jean-Pierre Dalbéra/Flickr

Born in 1934 in the state of Maharashtra, Jivya Soma Mashe was an Indian artist because of who the Warli tribal art form became popular. He painted his life, beliefs, customs, and rituals in simple drawings with sensitivity in every detail and strokes, lines, and a group of dots on the canvas. This made him a legendary Warli artist. He was internationally recognized. He met Bhaskar Kulkarni, an eminent artist who refined his raw artistic skills and talent.

Jivya’s first exhibition in 1975 at the Gallery Chemould, Jehangir Art Gallery in Mumbai was because of Bhaskar Kulkarni. After this, he did many national and international exhibitions. Jivya Soma Mashe was honored with the National Award in 1972, Shilp Guru Award in 2002, The Prince Claus Award in 2009, and the Padma Shri in 2011. He was felicitated with many awards in Paris, Berlin, London, and New York and was also featured in many books like “The Warlis’- Tribal Paintings and Legends” and “The Painted World of the Warli”. Jivya Soma Mashe passed away in 2018.

6. Ganga Devi

Indian-Folk-Artist-Ganga-Devi
Image Source

One of the leading exponents of Madhubani painting tradition, Ganga Devi, an Indian painter, and artist was born in 1928 in Mithila, Bihar. She took up the traditional painting art form and specialized in kachni style which is the line drawing style. Her first brush was handed to her by her mother when she was just a child. The brush was made up of rice straw and a few threads taken from the hem of her sari. She used the soot scraped from the bottom of a pot or the chimney of a hurricane lantern as ink. She used to practice on a canvas which she made by sticking her school notebook pages onto a cloth as they didn’t have paper in their village.

Her notable works include the famous Indian epic, Ramayana, in a series of paintings, Manav Jivan (Life of Mankind) series in which she painted a detailed life cycle of a rural woman, and Artwork inspired from the USA in which she translated her travel experience and her observations into paintings. In her Ramayana series, she painted with a very controlled hand and used subtle colors. She died a violent death in 1991 by her stepson who possibly wanted her wealth.

7. Kalam Patua

Indian-Folk-Artist-Kalam-Patua
Image Source – Kalam-Patua/FB

Kalam Patua is a self-taught artist and an exponent of Kalighat paintings. He was born in 1962 into the Patua community storytellers and scroll painters. As a postmaster in a rural post office, he is among the few artists that still paint in this style. He focuses on the elements of autobiography, myth, social issues, and currents affairs. His themes include dowry, deaths, and violence against women. He uses watercolors and even paints light and humorous paintings. He is the one who revived the dying tradition of Kalighat paintings. His works have been exhibited internationally in some museums.

His works include consumerism, dowry, feminism, sexuality, historical revolutions, a couple watching the 9/11 tragedy on television. He painted ‘Nirbhaya’ to commemorate Jyoti Singh Pandey, a young woman, was abducted and brutally raped by some men on a bus in 2012. She died from her injuries and so Kalam Patua created some paintings to honor her.

10 Great Stupas in India You Must Visit to Understand the Buddhist Legacy

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Great Stupas in India
Image-McKay Savage/Flickr

A stupa, meaning heap or a pile is a shrine or a reliquary that contains sacred remains of Buddhist monks and nuns or other holy persons. The hemispherical structure with a spire at its top is also used as a place of meditation by Buddhist monks. These sacred sites are dedicated to the Buddha and the Buddhist saints. One can always find a pradakshina path around the stupas which is a pathway made of stone where devotees walk clockwise around the shrine as a ritual. The shape of the stupa represents the Buddha in a meditative posture sitting on a lion throne, crowned. Let’s take a look at some great in India:

1. Sanchi Stupa, Madhya Pradesh

Great Stupas in India - Sanchi Stupa
Image-Amit Rawat/Flickr

The Buddhist complex, Sanchi is famous for its Great Stupa which is one of the most famous stupas in India. The Great Stupa (Mahastupa) is situated on a hilltop at Sanchi in Madhya Pradesh, India, and is considered one of the oldest stone structures in the country. The monument is very valuable, important, and the best-preserved ancient stupa. Its construction was commissioned by Ashoka the Great and he along with his wife supervised the work. He even constructed one of the pillars which are inscribed with his proclamation. The famous sandstone pillar of Ashoka is still at the complex in Sanchi. Toranas, the free-standing arched gateways are intricately engraved. The hemispherical stone had a ‘chatra’ which intended to honor and shelter Buddha’s relics. The Sanchi Stupa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is also featured on the rear side of the 200 rupees note.

2. Dhamekh Stupa, Sarnath

Great Stupas in India - Dhamekh-Stupa
Image-Preeti Prajapati/Wikimedia

Located at Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh, the Dhamekh Stupa is a massive structure, originally built in 249 BCE and later reconstructed in 500 CE. It was commissioned by Ashoka the Great, who wanted to enshrine the relics of Buddha and his disciples. There is an Ashoka pillar with engraved edicts standing on the site. The Dhamekh stupa is an exquisite piece of Buddhist architecture and is engraved with birds, flowers, humans, and inscriptions in Brahmi script. The shape is a strong cylinder of bricks and stones with a diameter of 28 meters and a peak of 43.6 meters. The Stupa is believed to mark the spot of a deer park where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment in Bodh Gaya. The panels of the stupa also have ‘Swastikas’ on them.

3. Amaravati Stupa, Andhra Pradesh

Great Stupas in India - Amaravati-Stupa
Image-Bhaskaranaidu/Wikimedia

The Amaravati Stupa or Mahastupa at Amaravathi village in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh is one of the finest monuments with stunning architecture and a diameter of about 50 meters and a height of 27 meters. Built during the reign of Ashoka in 200 CE, the Stupa has a circular vedika that portrays Lord Buddha on top of an elephant. The stupa was called a Mahachaitya in ancient inscriptions. It is an important spot for Buddhism as the Vajrayana teachings of Kalachakra are practiced here. The stupa was neglected and was buried under dust and debris but some of its relics, sculptures, and inscriptions that depict the life of Lord Buddha are preserved in several museums. There are a few broken pillars that remain at the site for significance and past glory of the stupa.

4. Shanti Stupa, Leh

Great Stupas in India - Shanti-Stupa
Image-Matt Werner/Flickr

Located on the hilltop of Chanspa in Leh, Ladakh, this white-domed Buddhist Shanti Stupa was built in 1991 by Japanese and Ladakh Buddhists to promote world peace and also commemorate 2500 years of Buddhism. It has Lord Buddha’s relics at its base which were preserved by the 14th Dalai Lama, who also inaugurated the stupa in August 1991. Due to its location, the stupa offers panoramic views of the nearby landscape and surrounding mountain ranges making it a major tourist attraction. The stupa is a two-level structure, where the first level has the central relief of Dharmachakra with deer on each side and a golden Buddha image sitting on a platform. The second level depicts the birth and death of Buddha and Buddha vanquishing devils while meditating. Sunrise and sunset is the best time to visit the stupa and one also has to climb 500 steps to reach the monument.

5. Bavikonda Stupa, Andhra Pradesh

Great Stupas in India - Bavikonda-Stupa
Image-Bornav/Wikimedia

Located at a distance of 16 km from Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, the Bavikonda Buddhist Complex is situated about 130 meters above mean sea level on a hill. Bavikonda is also known as the hill of wells as the place has many wells for rainwater collection. This Buddhist complex is an excavated site and it contains numerous relics which date back to the 3 rd century BCE. The excavated remnants included remains of Buddha, pottery, bricks, coins, caskets, inscriptions, etc. which were recovered by the State Archaeological Department. Bavikonda along with three other places is a heritage site by UNESCO.

6. Chaukhandi Stupa, Sarnath

Great Stupas in India - Chaukhandi-Stupa
Image-Rmanish1973/Wikimedia

The Chaukhandi Stupa in Sarnath, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh was initially built as a terraced temple between the 4th and 6th centuries to mark the area where Lord Buddha met his first disciples on their journey from Bodh Gaya to Sarnath. Afterward, Raja Todar Mal’s son redesigned the stupa and built the octagonal tower to celebrate the visit of Mughal ruler, Humayun. However, the stupa became declared a monument of countrywide significance in June 2019. The stupa is a high earthen mound with brickwork all over it and the place is surrounded by lush gardens and museums.

7. Kesaria Stupa, Bihar

Great Stupas in India - Kesaria-Stupa
Image-Monukr01/Wikimedia

Located in Champaran (east), Bihar and at a distance of one hundred ten kilometers from Patna, this Buddhist stupa is one of the tallest and biggest Buddhist stupas in the world. The Kesaria Stupa is a 104 feet tall structure with a circumference of almost 400 feet. The original height of the stupa was 150 feet but after the 1934 Bihar earthquake, the structure was reduced to its present height. It is said that the stupa dates back between 200 AD and 750 AD. The Kesaria Stupa was excavated in 1998. It is also called ‘Devala’ meaning ‘house of god’ by the local people. It is also believed that Lord Buddha visited Kesaria to preach the Kesaputtiya Suttas which included the Kalama Sutta. The stupa is now a protected monument of national significance.

8. Ramabhar Stupa, Kushinagar

Great Stupas in India - Ramabhar-Stupa
Image-Axel Drainville/Flickr

The Ramabhar Stupa in Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh is one of the most sacred and important Buddhist pilgrimage sites. This is the place where Lord Buddha was cremated in 483 BC. It is believed to have attained Parinirvana after death. The stupa is dome-shaped having brickworks with a height of 49 feet. It is also called the Mukutbandhan-Chaitya. Lord Buddha also gave his last sermon to his disciples at this place. It was, “impermanence is inherent in all things. Work out your salvation with diligence”. There are ruins from the pre-historic era near the stupa. There is also a pond-like water body close to the monument.

9. Angulimala Stupa, Shravasti

Great Stupas in India - Angulimala-Stupa
Image-Photo Dharma/Wikimedia

The Angulimala’s Stupa in Shravasti, Uttar Pradesh is another site that was excavated along with the Shravasti city in 1863. Shravasti was a new city created for Lava, Lord Rama’s son according to the epic Ramayana. The city was also called Savatthi according to the Buddhist tradition as the sage Savattha lived there. Shravasti was a major religious site for Buddha’s disciples. It is said that Lord Buddha spent his monastic years here at the Jetavana Monastery. Angulimala was a ruthless dacoit in Shravasti who chopped other’s fingers and wore them in a necklace around his neck. He was once about to kill his mother.  Lord Buddha turned him into a disciple and showered him with wisdom. The remains of the stupa are known as Pakki Kuti. Only the walls, a plinth, and a raised platform with a flight of stairs are there at the spot.

10. Buddha Stupa, Deur Kothar

Great Stupas in India - Buddha-Stupa
Image-LRBurdak at English Wikipedia/Wikipedia

Deur Kothar or Deorkothar in Madhya Pradesh is known for its Buddhist stupas. This place is of archaeological as well as national importance and was discovered in 1982. This excavated site contains remains of various monuments made of stones and bricks. The entire complex was constructed by Ashoka the Great. It contains monasteries, an ancient pathway, elaborately carved pillars with Brahmi inscriptions, a water channel system, and 40 stone stupas. These stupas were established by King Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE. The complex is also known for four brick stupas.

Five Indian Curries You Must Taste to Celebrate the Indian Spices

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Indian-Curries-You-Must-Taste
Image by ArtificialOG

Anyone who lives in India or has eaten Indian food knows that it contains a lot of Indian spices and the dishes are very colorful. India has a huge variety of food which includes different kinds of curries, cuisines, and various flavors as they like to use a lot of fragrant spices and herbs which add to the flavor and color of the food. There are a lot of reasons why Indians love food so much because they have recipes passed on from generations after generations which they like to improvise and evolve. The spices and the ingredients that we use in our food make it extremely healthy and nutritious. In India, no occasion like weddings or birthdays is complete without food.

Fortunately, Indian food is very delicious and addictive and it comforts us. Here we will take a look at the different types of Indian curry.

1. Pasanda

Indian Curries You Must Taste-Pasanda
Image-Miansari66/Wikimedia

Pasanda is the type of curry which is usually made with almonds, cream, coconut and is very mild in spice. The Shahi Mughalayi dish was initially made with the leg of lamb or goat flattened into strips, but now it is also made with prawns, chicken, paneer, etc. Pasanda is generally white but people also add turmeric to it which gives it a yellow color. It is a sweet dish and is made with a little bit of spice. For seasoning, peppercorns, garlic, cardamom, and cumin are used. After cutting and flattening the meat, it is marinated in rich and creamy almond coconut sauce with yogurt and spices. After which it is cooked and fried with other ingredients such as onions, coriander, and more spices like cinnamon and black pepper.

It is mostly served with flaked almonds on the top and white rice or naan bread on the side. As the word ‘Pasanda’ also means ‘like’ in English, this is the kind of dish which is liked by everyone from children to adults.

2. Korma

Indian Curries You Must Taste-Korma
Image-erik forsberg/Flickr

This traditional Indian dish is very rich and creamy and is made using almonds and coconut and so, it is very similar to Pasanda but the difference is that this curry includes saffron which gives it a nice pale yellow color. This curry is also very mild in spice and it has a sweet flavor to it. Korma can be made using any kind of meat like lamb, beef, chicken, goat and some may even include vegetables like spinach and turnip. The meat and vegetables are smothered in water or stock, yogurt or cream.

The main ingredients and spices of the dish include yogurt, coconut, almonds, cashews, ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, and cumin. The vegetables or meat are marinated in the yogurt or cream mixture and then cooked in the gravy using coconut milk. The vegetarian alternative to this dish is Navratan Korma which includes nine different vegetables.

3. Jalfrezi

Indian Curries You Must Taste-Jalfrezi
Image-lulun & kame/Flickr

Originating from Bengal, Jalfrezi is the most popular Indian curry and not only in the Indian subcontinent but in the UK as well. It has appeared in British India’s cookbooks. Jalfrezi is the first dish in India that has red peppers in its sauce. It involves pieces of meat, fish, or vegetables marinated and fried in the spiced oil. The dish includes sweet peppers, tomatoes, and onions, coconuts, and spices which are cooked together. The sauce is a dry and thick one. Jalfrezi uses leftovers to create a spicy curry filled with fragrant herbs and spices. The word ‘Jalfrezi’ itself means spicy food and stir-fry. This Anglo-Indian fusion dish is typically cooked with chicken but one can replace the meat with paneer too.

4. Vindaloo

Indian Curries You Must Taste-Vindaloo
Image-stu_spivack/Flickr

The infamously – spiciest Indian curry dish, Vindaloo hails from the Goa region of India and is influenced by the Portuguese traders who visited during the 16th century. The Portuguese prepared the curry using wine and garlic but the Indian chefs replaced the wine with palm vinegar. The word ‘vindaloo’ is evolved and derived from a Portuguese term and it means wine and garlic. The dish can be made using several types of meat but Pork Vindaloo is the most popular one. The curry is made from tomato, chili, and cumin. It is a hot, sweet, and sour type of curry. Vindaloo is a heavily spiced dish and those who love to eat very spicy food will find it delicious. 

5. Rogan Josh

Indian Curries You Must Taste-Rogan-Josh
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This meat dish of Kashmir origin is an authentic Indian lamb curry. The word ‘Rogan’ means oil and ‘Josh’ means heat and so the dish consists of cooking the meat in oil which is at intense heat. Rogan Josh is known for its thick red sauce and the red color but the spiciness of the dish depends on how one makes it. It is full of flavors as the onions are caramelized and the spices are roasted. The meat is marinated and added to the sauce. This spicy red sauce is made using tomatoes, cardamom, and a lot of Kashmiri Chilli Powder which gives the curry the redness.

Rogan Josh is traditionally made using lamb or mutton but nowadays, people have started making vegetarian versions of it in which they include paneer, tofu, potatoes, mushrooms, cauliflower, vegetables, etc. Another meaning of the word ‘Rogan Josh’ is ‘red meat’ or ‘red juice’. The dish is best served with naan bread or parathas and plain basmati rice with fresh salad.

Indian cuisine comprises a lot of curry-based dishes. The spices used in the curries have antibacterial properties and antioxidants. The spices give the curry delicious flavors and make it very healthy and nutritious. There are a lot of types of Indian curries that cannot even be counted and this is only a very small part of India’s rich culinary heritage. So, which Indian curry do you like the most?