Andhra Pradesh, the fourth largest state in India, is the most popular visiting place on the country’s south-eastern coast. The temples in Andhra Pradesh have magnificent architectural designs and robust beliefs. Andhra Pradesh is home to various temples. Here is a list of some of these temples which make Andhra vibrant and culturally rich.
Sri Venkateswara Temple of Andhra Pradesh is one of the most famous temples in India. Dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, the temple dates back to the 12th century and is one of the wealthiest temples in the world. Many tourists visit the state of Andhra Pradesh only in the hoard of Sri Venkateswara Temple. The daily arti or the Vishesh Puja of the temple is very famous among both the locals and visitors. The Sri Venkateswara Temple is the focal point of the annual Brahmotsavam festival. The busiest months are September and October.
The Srikalahasti Temple is the star of the Rayalaseema region in Andhra Pradesh, and Lord Shiva is the sole deity of the temple. Looking at the temple’s history, it was the king of the Vijayanagar empire, King Krishnadevraya, who constructed the temple in 1516. The most remarkable feature of the temple’s architecture is the intricate carvings and mythological illustrations on the temple walls.
The Ranganath temple lies on River Pennar, and it is one of the oldest temples in the region. The beautiful architecture and exquisite carvings in the temple are no joke. The temple houses seven gold pots, and these pots have huge mirrors and have a mesmerizing design.
The Kanaka Durga Temple of Vijaywada is a famous shrine of Goddess Durga. The marvelous architecture in Dravidian fashion is breathtaking. The hills of Indrakeeladri surround the temple while the river Krishna flows beside it. The temple has various mentions in historical and religious texts.
Siva Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple stands on the southern bank of the mighty river Krishna, Srisailam. King Harihara Raya built the temple way back in the 6th century. The idols of sage Bringi, Nandi, Sahasralinga, and Nataraja find a home in this temple. A legend surrounding the temple states the story of Goddess Parvati cursing sage Bringi for worshipping only Lord Shiva and Lord Shiva bestowing the sage with a third leg.
Veerbhadra Temple of the Lepakshi temple is one of the most famous and marvelous temples in the region. Maharaja Aliya Rama Raya of the Vijayanagara Empire founded the temple in 1535 AD. The temple holds not only religious significance but also historical affluence. It houses several archaeological sites.
Yaganti Temple, or the temple of Yagantiswamy of Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, is a popular tourist place. Lord Shiva is the temple’s deity; Ardhanareeswara, the fusion of God Shiva and Goddess Parvati, is worshipped in the temple. The other name of the temple is Uma Maheshwara Temple. The ancient temple dates back to the 5th and 6th centuries. The idol in the temple is a single stone carving.
Simhachalam Temple of Vishakhapatnam is an ornate shrine in the state of Andhra Pradesh. It is present on the top of a hill 800 meters above sea level. The temple is primarily a Lord Narsimha temple, and the detailed stone carvings and design steal the spotlight. The Simhachalam Temple is the only temple in India where you can find the third and fourth incarnations of Lord Vishnu together.
The temple is one of the eight auspicious and sacred destinations in India known as the Mahakshetrams. According to legends, Lord Vishnu himself manifested on the Mangalagiri soil, and Goddess Lakshmi performed penance in the peak of Guntur hills.
The Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple is a sacred temple where people pray and seek the blessings of Goddess Padmavathi. The temple stands solely dedicated to the legends of the life of Goddess Padmavathi
The Thousand pillar temple is an ancient temple in the small town of Andhra Pradesh, Hanamakonda. The pillars here are so tightly knit that they give the shape of a complete wall. The star shape construction of the temple is the best part.
The Kanipakam Vinayaka Temple is a reason for pilgrims to visit the state. The small town of Kanapakam where we find this beautiful temple is an abode of the deity Vinayaka. Constructed in the 11th century by the Chola king KUlthunga Chola I, the temple beautifully depicts ancient architecture. It was rebuilt by the rulers of the Vijayanagara dynasty in 1336.
Ahobilam Temple is insanely popular among tourists, and many sources state it as one of the most visited temples in Andhra Pradesh. Sources and historical cum religious texts also elaborate on the point that the temple stands where Lord Narsimha kills Hiranyakasipu.
The Amaralingeswara temple, located in the Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh, is one of the panchakarma Kshetras of the region. Legends state that the Shiva Linga in the temple is the one which God Indra installed himself. There is also a belief that the Shiva Linga present in the temple grows each year.
The magnificent temple was built in the heart of the ancient capital Warangal of the Kakatiya Dynasty. General Recherla Rudra constructed the temple during the rule of Kakatiya ruler Ganapati Deva. The carvings on the temple walls depict ancient scenes.
Conclusion
Other than these 15 temples, other temples hold supreme importance and reverence in Andhra Pradesh. Many of these temples were built centuries back and qualify as ancient temples and even supported archaeological sites. Most of the temples stand dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temples of Andhra Pradesh are the pride of the whole nation
Western fashion has greatly influenced the clothing of India due to globalization, formalism, and ease of wear in a highly busy lifestyle. The people, however, have not discarded their traditions and culture. These come to the forefront especially during occasions, gatherings, ceremonies, and religious festivities. The traditional dresses of Indian states will always be adorned to celebrate cultural diversity.
Each state of India has its heritage that is a source of its costumes and clothing. Today, we explore all the states of India and their rich style of traditional wear.
The women of Andhra Pradesh dress in handloom sarees. Most of these are made of silk, with a rich texture due to their intricate weaving. The younger women wear the two-piece conventional sarees called the Langa Voni. Andhra’s Kalamkari sarees have mythological motifs, and figures from epics etched on them. The men use the shirt called kurta as the upper garment, teamed with dhoti, lungi, or pajama.
Arunachal Pradesh
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A full-sleeved coat over a loose chemise is the conventional wear for women. The accessories of bamboo and silver earrings are very common. The men wear silk shirts and pin the edges around the shoulder area. Their customary green lungis have colored stripes of blue, yellow, or white. The Sherdukpen men’s wear is famous for the skull-caps called Gurdam, which are made from Yak hair.
The ‘Mekhela-Chador’ or ‘Riha-Mekhela’ is wonderful traditional clothing for Assamese women. Especially during occasions like weddings or festivities, women take pride to adorn themselves in this attire. This handloom product is woven from durable Muga silk. The men were dhoti and kurta or kameez, often draping the long cloth ‘chador’ from the Seleng region.
The traditional dress of men from Bihar is the dhoti-mirjai and kurta while women prefer sarees or Salwar-Kameez. The saree is worn in the conventional ‘Seedha Aanchal’ style and is often made of Tussar silk.
Chhattisgarh
The local Kuchhora fashion of wearing knee-length sarees is preferred by the women of Chhattisgarh. It is known as Lugda and worn with a pullover called Polkha. Other than dhotis and headgears like cotton turbans, the men wear garments called Halbas and Murias. The fabrics that are used the most are linen, silk, and cotton, and are usually painted with molten wax.
The conventional attire for women in Goa is the Nav-Vari saree which comes nine-yard long. The expensive Pano Bhaju saree is studded with precious stones and gems. Men wear basic shirts and trousers, often teaming them up with caps.
The traditional Kedia dress is worn by both men and women in Gujarat during festive occasions and celebrations. Women also wear vibrant Chaniya Choli. This gorgeous dress is worn with a long skirt called ‘Ghagra’ as the lower garment and is embedded with little pieces of glass. In general, men wear dhoti and kurta.
The colorful dresses of women from Haryana include ‘Damaan’, ‘Kurti’ and ‘Chunder’. The Damaan is an ankle-long skirt while the Kurti is a shirt-like blouse. The long and laced Chunder is used to cover the head and drape around the shoulders. The dhoti is the traditional wear for men. They also crown their attire with the headgear Pagri, mainly in the villages.
The men from Himachal Pradesh prefer kurtas and the lower garment called Churidaar. The women, on the other hand, deck themselves in ethnic Kurti, Salwar-Kameez, a long skirt called Ghagri, and the fringed headscarves called Rahide. Due to the climate, woolen clothing is indispensable for the people. The famous Pashmina shawls are unique to the region.
The Pathan and Panchi costumes of the tribes of Jharkhand are extremely popular. Sarees made from Tussar silk and Anjana silks are worn traditionally by women. The men were a single piece of cloth called the Bhagwan. The costumes called Santhal and Pahari of the Santhal Pagara tribes are believed to bring good luck to the wearer. In general, men wear dhoti and kurta.
Karnataka has a variety of costumes because of the diverse communities that reside in the state. The Ilkal sarees of Karnataka are popular throughout the country due to their unique method of weaving which makes use of the Tope Teni process of looping. Kanjeevaram silks are also popular. The men prefer to wear kurta and the lower-garment called lungi or panche.
Kerala’s most conventional traditional wear is called the mundu. It resembles a long skirt and is worn by both men and women. Women wear the Mundum Neriyathum, traditionally a two-piece costume in the style of a saree. Men wear a shirt or kurta as the upper garment and the Veshti, a type of sarong.
Women of Madhya Pradesh wear Lehenga, a heavy, ornamented long skirt, and the blouse called Choli. They also drape a long, light cloth, called the Orni or Lugra, over the head and around the shoulders. The men don the Bandi jacket on top of kurta and dhoti.
The women commonly wear the traditional nine-yard long saree called the ‘Nauvari’, along with a ‘choli’ blouse. Nauvari has a unique pattern of draping which is a recognized costume of Maharashtra. The men wear a cotton kurta paired with the dhoti. Their cotton caps are called ‘pheta’ or ‘pagadi’. A sleeveless jacket called ‘bandi’ is often worn.
The women of Manipur drape the Innaphi in the style of a shawl. Their hand-woven Phanek skirt is designed with horizontal lines. The women from the Meitai community stitch a cloth full of intricate designs called Kanap Phanek. Two other important cultural costumes of Manipur include ‘Lai-Phi’ and ‘Chin-Phi’. Men wear a simple white turban or ‘pagri’ on the head, and kurta and dhoti.
The dressing culture of the tribes of Meghalaya, mainly Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo, are unique in each of their fashion. The Jympien skirt of the women is made from cotton or endi. An apron or Kyrshah is suspended from the left shoulder and then extends down to the legs. The Jainem, mainly worn outdoors, is a modification of the typical Indian saree. Beaded jewelry is used to adorn along with this saree which is made from cotton or silk. The Tap Moh headgear is also worn. The men’s apparel includes the dhoti, shirt, and jacket along with a turban. They often wear a sleeveless coat and pair it up with the decorative Jymphong during festivals and occasions.
The Puan, an attire consisting of the blouse, leggings, and the dupatta for headgear, is the traditional dress of Mizo women. The two-piece clothing called Puanchei, consisting of a long skirt and a shirt, is worn on occasions and at weddings. Traditionally, these are brightly colored, with checkered designs. The women have gorgeous blouses and headdresses to wear during performing cultural dances. The men of Mizoram simply put on a long piece of shirt-like garment. During summers they wear turbans, while in winters, they don coats over their garments, usually of red and white colors.
Nagaland takes pride in its ancestral heritage and its warrior history. The design of the shawl that the people wear depicts the social status of the wearer. The attire of the men is topped with a red headgear decked with black and white feathers of the Hornbill and the canine teeth of a wild boar. The bangles, necklaces, and tattoos depict the history of war and the sacrifices that the people went through.
Odisha
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Women drape the Oriya saree with a five-yard cotton ikat cloth. These sarees have deep primary colors like blue and red along with special ikat patterns. The handlooms of Odisha produce distinctive and popular sarees like Bomkai and Sambalpuri. Men prefer to wear shirts and pants. During occasions or traditional festivities, they wear kurta, dhoti, and Gamucha.
Punjab
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Women love colorful and intricately embroidered Salwar Kameez and Patiala pants. The turban of the Sikh man is a symbol of honor. Along with kurta, the men wear light and baggy Tehmat pyjamas as the lower garment. Jooti is the conventional Punjabi footwear worn by both men and women.
Generally, the women of Rajasthan wear the long skirt called Ghagra along with the Kanchli blouse. The men, on the other hand, wear a kurta, Churidar, dhoti, Angarkha, and Paggar. Their turban-like headdress is called the Safa. All across the state, the conventional dressing style varies according to preferences.
The women of the Bhutia tribe of Sikkim wear the traditional full-sleeved blouse called Hanju and a colorful, woolen cloth called Pangden. Often they top it with the Kushen jacket. The men wear waistcoats called Jyajya and the shirt called Yenthatse. Shambo is their traditional cap. The Lepcha women wear the Dumvam garment, along with the loose-fitted blouse called Tago. Nepali women have a blouse called Chaubandi that they wear with sarees. The men wear kurta-styled Daura and comfortable trousers called Sural.
Men in Tamil Nadu, drape the Angavastra around their shoulders and the cotton lungi around their waist. The women choose the perfect saree that fits the occasion. They are usually made of silk and have delicate designs and colors.
The famous sarees woven in Telangana include the Pochampally saree and the Gadwal saree. Pochampally weave is commonly done in the tie-and-dye technique, also called the ikkat weave. The dhoti worn by men is also called the Pancha. The traditional Sherwani of Hyderabad was preferred by the nobles and the Nizam. Today, it is worn during festivals and occasions.
The Rignai of Tripura is a broad piece of cloth wrapped around the waist, and the Risa is a shorter upper garment. Both these clothes are traditionally worn by women, especially during occasions. The Rignai and Risa fabric are designed with deft artistry and beautiful patterns. The men usually wear the Rikutu Gamcha along with the shirt called Kubai. They like to accessorize with bead necklaces.
The men of Uttarakhand wear a kurta shirt as the upper garment along with a dhoti, pyjama, or lungi. The turban is important in completing the traditional attire. Most of the women prefer to wear the Ghagri skirt along with a colorful blouse called Choli. They cover their head with an additional long cloth called Orni, which they usually fix at the waist. The traditional bridal costume of Ghagra-Pichora is decked with gold and silver embroidery.
The women of Uttar Pradesh usually prefer saree or Salwar-Kameez while the men go for kurta, dhoti, or pyjama. The men also wear Pagri. During festivities, they wear the richly embroidered kurta called the Sherwani. Women wear the Lehenga and Choli along with Orni.
West Bengal
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The white saree with broad, red borders is an iconic and favorite festive wear for Bengali women. The Salwar-Kameez is also popular alongside sarees. The men traditionally wear the Panjabi, which is a long shirt in the style of a kurta. Their lower garments include cotton pyjama, dhoti, and lungi.
The customary wear in the Union Territory, Jammu, and Kashmir, called Pheran, is a long gown that extends below the knees. The women’s Pheran is usually embroidered at the hems and collars with golden threads. Muslim women also wear kameez-suit and Burkha. The men wear turbans with Churidaar and Pyjama, or skull caps along with the Pheran or ‘Salwar’ suits.
The Diversity in Traditional Dresses of Indian States
The clothing of traditional India is rich in artistry and uniqueness. The citizens take pride in their ethnic wear, style, and ornamentations. The traditional dresses of Indian states, worn by the diverse set of people in the country reflect the depth of the rich history and culture of India.
Yoga originated in India back in the pre-Vedic period, around 3000 BCE. It is a form of exercise that enhances the health of the physique, expansion of the mind, and enlightenment dawned through self-realisation and attaining oneness with the entirety of the universe. Today, Yoga is practiced all across the world and here we present the major types of Yoga that are prevalent.
Hatha yoga
Hatha Yoga originated in the sutras of Patanjali Maharishi written during the 400 AD. It is conceived as having eight-limbs of discipline or an eight-fold path to attain oneness with the whole of existence as well as self-realisation. It used to be considered as an ethical or moral code of life and the mother of all yogas, the style from which the others originated.
Today, Hatha Yoga is practiced as a basic method for people newly endeavouring to attain calm of mind and relieve stress. It consists of breathing techniques or pranayamas, asanas, or postures to enhance the stability and strength of the body, and meditation or dhyana.
Although Hatha Yoga has been forced into adapting itself to the new-age, busy lifestyle of people, it still incorporates within itself the core eight principles which include understanding and relating to your surroundings, realising your true self, attaining a balance with the force of the universe and surrendering to your destiny.
Vinyasa Yoga is the form where one proceeds from one posture to another, in a seamless flow of linked movement, driven in sync with the breathing. This type of Yoga encapsulates the temporary nature of things in life and helps to enhance the balance of the body and mind. Vinyasa or Vinyasa-Krama goes back to the Vedic period where it was recognised as a sequence of postures and movements to go onwards on the self-aware journey to attain pure sacredness and unabashed truth of existence.
Often referred to as the “Flow Yoga”, Vinyasa can be practiced both with stimulation and intensity as well as in a gentle and restorative manner. It not only increases flexibility but also builds strength, increases focus, and prevents repetitive motion injuries. The use of “Ujjayi Breath” brings attention to every inhale and exhale and clears the mind. It is extremely versatile as the order of poses is flexible to change during each class, depending on the practitioner’s decision.
Ashtanga Yoga is a rigorous discipline of structured yoga practice that incorporates the exact sequence of poses and their transitions. It was introduced into the mainstream by Sri Pattabhi Jois.
The class of Ashtanga Yoga involves the student in a specific sequence which they practice at their own pace but under the guidance of the teacher. When the student masters this stage, they are introduced to the next and more challenging level.
This personalised approach tends to individualised adjustments and includes the sequences named according to their increasing order of vigor: the Primary Series or Yoga Chikitsa, the Intermediate series, the Advanced-A, the Advanced-B, and so on.
Ashtanga Yoga also follows Patanjali’s eight-limbed approach and serves to bring under control the wanton mind. It centres on strength building, detoxifying, and aligning the body, focusing on the breathing technique that gives more fluidity to the practice and meditation.
Iyengar Yoga emphasizes the correct alignment of the body during its postures. A practice that aims to pronounce spiritual well-being and anatomic precision, it develops balance in body and mind and often uses props, like belts and blocks, to ensure safer and gradual progress. It has been formulated by B.K.S Iyengar and also follows the Yoga Sutras by Patanjali.
With consistent training, one will be able to advance through the progressive stages of this style systematically. Iyengar Yoga builds stability, increases flexibility, makes adequate use of pranayama, and focuses on longer holds of the postures to enhance proper alignment of the physique.
Comprising intense postures, breathing techniques, meditation as well as singing, Kundalini Yoga aims to arouse the dormant energy that lies at the bottom of our spine and expand the consciousness to achieve enlightenment.
The Sanskrit word “kundal” means “coiled energy”, and the dormant spiritual force of our being is conceptualised as a coiled snake that rises through the six spinal chakras and reaches the seventh chakra, that is the crown of the head, as the Kundalini awakens.
The process of growth through self-awareness in Kundalini Yoga is spontaneous, where the practitioner’s self-unfolds itself gradually as each day passes. Kundalini Yoga helps one to shed their attachments of the past and overcome the fear of the true Self, thus achieving realisation and understanding of the individual’s core being.
Kundalini Yoga cultivates strength and tones the body since asanas are held for longer periods, often up to five minutes. It helps in producing serotonin and reduces stress for the vital energy flows through the body as the chakras unlock during performing the sequence of postures paired with breathing techniques, called “kriya”. This yoga not only enhances concentration and memory but also boosts the metabolic system.
Since colours produced on the subconscious mind, the effect of inspiration, expansion, and productivity moves the consciousness. The yogic chooses that one color which is an amalgamation of the seven colours: white. The colour white also wards off negative energy. The yoga starts off with the process of “tuning in”, where a mantra is chanted, like Sat Nam or the Adi Mantra. This is followed by a brief warm-up of the spine and then the kriyas are performed. The closing meditation and song often comprise the five primal sounds of the universe: Sa, Ta, Na, Ma.
The combination of these two types of yoga benefits the mind, body, and soul holistically. While Yang is based on the Hatha and Ashtanga types and focuses on developing muscles and toning the body, Yin is a much relaxed and passive form of yoga which concentrates on increasing flexibility and mobility of joints and the connective tissues, also called Yin tissues.
Yin and Yang are the two concepts of the Taoist philosophy which illustrates the essential balance that persists in every aspect of existence. Thus, Yin yoga is more internal, cooling, and downward flow while Yang is of the external, warmer, and upward flow of energy.
A class of Yin yoga includes a series of passive postures on the floor which aim to enhance the deep connective tissues and fascia networks of the body. In terms of energy, Yin helps in the flow of the life force or ‘chi’ throughout the meridians or energy channels of the body and benefits the mental and emotional aspects of the practitioner.
The suppressed emotions like anxiety, stress, happiness, and boredom all surface, and are released as the body is held in asana. The practitioner merely observes the physical sensation of these emotions and is not engulfed in their stories. The Yin asanas are held for a longer period. By stimulating and removing the myofascial meridians, Yin Yoga produces a balance among the internal organs and systems of the body.
Yang yoga is a dynamic practice that incorporates the styles of Vinyasa Flow and Ashtanga Yoga. It shapes the muscles and increases strength and stamina.
Jivamukti Yoga
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Jivamukti Yoga is an amalgamation of the methodology and philosophy of different yogis, especially of Swami Nirmalanda, Sir K. Pattabhi Jois, and Shri Brahmananda Sarasvati. It is considered as a path to enlightenment through compassion towards all beings, wherein the unity of the one with the all is achieved and the perception of separate existence is dissolved through realisation and establishment of a relationship with the surroundings.
The word ‘Jivamukti’ is a Sanskrit term which means “liberation while living.” It is centred around the Vinyasa style practice and its asanas are dynamic and vigorous that demand a physical challenge. The teachers often start the day with a story of a particular theme around which revolves the practice for the rest of the class. These themes are explored through yoga scriptures, chanting mantras, indulging in pranayamas, asanas, and even music.
The principles of Jivamukti Yoga are inspired by the Sutras of Patanjali and are five in number: meditation (dhyana), music (nada), non-violence (ahimsa), devotion (bhakti), scriptures (shastra). These are made relatable by drawing examples from modern life and contemporary music.
In Hot Yoga, the practice is carried out in a room with heightened temperatures. This form of yoga detoxifies the body through intense sweating, improves blood circulations, makes it easier to form the asanas due to warmed up muscles, normalises glucose level in the blood, nourishes the skin, and builds strength.
The room is heated above normal room temperature. The heat is set to what the yoga instructor decides, though it’s usually between 80 and 100°F. Hot Yoga sessions are usually variable and can include any sequence of poses. The classes are characterised by music and interactions among the participants.
The Moksha yoga is a form of Hot Yoga practiced mainly in Canada and includes more than 40 different poses, all founded upon the traditional forms of yoga. It offers a cardiovascular workout, yet reduces stress by calming the mind.
A more serious and quieter type of Hot Yoga, called the Bikram Yoga, is done in a room heated to 105°F, with 40 percent humidity, aiming to duplicate the temperature of India, where Yoga originated.
Art is more than creativity alone. Undoubtedly, the artwork itself is an amalgamation of style, colour, background, angles and shapes. And though the value of a masterpiece is seen in its artistic creativity, its worth in terms of an investment is also recognized across the world. In fact, the global art market is a $2 trillion behemoth. The art market’s index, ArtPrice 100, has beaten the S&P500 over the last 25 years by providing annualized returns of 14.5% against 9.5% for the stock markets.
Art lovers love to own exceptional artwork. But the lack of access to art auctions, as well as the steep pricing are a few practical hurdles that are stumbles for connoisseurs of art.
Yet, art is an alternative investment asset that has been around for years, but not fully explored by many. Investing in art is long term and just like bonds and stocks it appreciates or increases in value through time. Also, unlike stocks and bonds, art investments do not oscillate according to the market conditions.
Buying artworks to diversify and add to your investment portfolio can definitely turn into a profitable venture.
Invest in art with Hedonova
Hedonova is a hedge fund that invests in all kinds of alternative assets. Multiple investors invest their money into the fund, which helps purchase paintings and art worth millions of dollars. By pooling the investors’ money, Hedonova eases the main troubles of art lovers and investors – managing and arranging huge funds to buy expensive artwork and gaining access to art auctions.
How can one start investing in Hedonova? By investing Rs. 75000 or $1000 in Hedonova each investor can get exposure to many artworks.
Art is an illiquid asset and difficult to convert into cash easily. However, art has a history as a transacting asset class. Auction houses, such as the Sotheby’s have been around for more than 250 years. Also, artworks have been profitable with paintings being sold for millions of dollars. The scope of the art market is tremendous and accounts for about 75% of yearly transaction value within the collectables market. The value of artwork is unique as it usually has no further editions or copies, even in the high and affluent markets.
At Hedonova the team invests in those rare artists who go on to achieve fame. The research aims to find the Picasso and Van Gogh of the world, whose artworks achieve the million-dollar tags and whose paintings are desired by ultra-high net worth individuals. Essentially, Hedonova invests in artworks by the top 100 artists that have a great record of sale at auction houses, gallery representations, rising price trends and cultural relevance. Some of such artists and their works include, Jean-Michel Basquiat’s Untitled, Claude Monet’s Coup, Arpita Singh’s Women with Boats and Ducks, Cecily Brown’s Girl Trouble and more.
Not just art investments
Besides art, Hedonova invests in other alternative investment assets. Most investors invest in stocks, gold, mutual funds, government bonds and mutual funds. However, alternative investment assets are financial assets that are not under the conventional income, cash or equity categories. Instead, real estate, hedge funds, venture capitals, commodities etc. fall under alternative art investments.
Hedonova invests in multiple alternative investment assets. These include P2P lending, wine, real estate – data centres, litigation funding etc.
Alternative investment assets are suitable for investors for a number of reasons. The diversification of investment outside conventional investing agencies helps to mitigate the risk and ensures that is distributed. Also, the alternative investment assets have outperformed indices, such as S&P 500 and NIFTY 50. Whether it is in real estate or contemporary art annual appreciation, these alternative investment assets have bettered the US and global equities in the recent past.
Furthermore, the alternative investment assets are not affected by stock market crashes or economic overturns. Of course, each alternative asset is influenced by different specific factors that are unique to them. And hence, adding them to your investment portfolio brings diversification to the traditional portfolio, involves less risk and potentially higher performance.
Features of Hedonova fund
Hedonova is a hedge fund that helps allocate our investors’ money in the appropriate alternative investment assets. Starting in 2018, Hedonova has managed more than $81 million in assets and generated an annual return of 53%.
Some of the features of Hedonova are:
Avoid the onus of high-end pricing by investing only Rs. 75000 ($1000).
Seek the help and guidance of our expert team of professionals who understand and have deep knowledge about alternative investment assets.
Hedonova is a US-based hedge fund but is open to investors anywhere in the world.
International investors pay no taxes in the USA but are applicable for capital gains tax in their home country.
Though alternative investment assets are not basically liquid, Hedonova uses several liquidity measures to allow investors to enter and exit the investment without any complications.
Investing in art can be tricky without proper research and understanding of alternative investment assets. At Hedonova the team of experts are experienced and passionate about making art a profitable and lucrative investment whose benefits can be reaped and managed in the future.
India has both a rich history and culture. The richness, however, is more about the correlation between people, cultures, and landscapes. With a multitude of influences, both that arose historically or originated within the land, to practices, architecture, and cultures that were brought from outside. India essentially is a wonderful mosaic of different traditions and heritages. One such is the Rajput community whose presence in the country reflects on countless stories, architectural magnificence, and a cultural mingling through various times.
One often thinks of valor, courageous kingdoms, opulent architecture, and a dominant Hindu environment when one hears about Rajputs. However, Rajputs in fact, incorporate various clans though it was around the 16th century that it began to be understood as the way we see it today. The origin of Rajputs is not too clear, yet their emergence is often associated with the breakup of the Gupta Empire in the 6th century. They are regarded as Kshatriyas though people from different strata of society have been absorbed too. The term Rajput has been anachronistically used over the years. It was addressed for a social class of people that came from different traditions, economic, and ethnic backgrounds.
Yet, it was in the 7th century that Rajputs started attaining political importance. Rajput kingdoms and dynasties were spread across northern and western India and were the main obstacles in the way of Muslim attackers.
The membership into the class became largely hereditary during the 16th and 17th centuries. However, the Rajput dynasties and kingdoms played a huge role in consolidating the class and clan across different areas till the 20th century. The Rajputs population is mostly found in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and Sindh.
Many parts of the subcontinent have been ruled by Rajput dynasties. Some as sovereign states, whereas later, many as princely states too.Since the term is anachronistically used, the rulers of Kalinjar and Gwalior who opposed the assaults by Mahmud Ghazni are also known as Rajputs. Some of the others include the Pratiharas, the Tomars, the Chahamanas, the Paramanas, the Chalukyas, the Chandelas and the Gahadavalas.
The Rajput kingdoms of Ranthambore and Chittor resisted the onset of Alauddin Khilji. Later Rana Sanga of Mewar defeated Delhi Sultanate’s Ibrahim Lodi but was, however, later defeated by Babur in the Battle of Khanwa. Many Rajput kingdoms moved along the eastern Ganga plains into modern-day Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
Yet, the equation of the Rajputs and the Mughals was for most parts a seamless arrangement. Akbar made a settlement with almost all Rajput kingdoms, except Mewar. It was because of their support the Mughal Empire was able to strengthen its foundations. Rajputs were a part of the court, had governance and army commands too. The Mughal kings married Rajput princesses.
The alliance between the Mughals and Rajputs continued to flourish. Jahangir and Shah Jahan’s mothers were Rajputs. But the bond was maligned during Aurangzeb’s rule. The Rajputs revolted under him and became one of the many reasons for the downfall of the Mughal Empire. The Rajputs too fell at the hands of the Marathas and after Independence, many of the Rajputana states were merged to form Rajasthan.
Rajput Architecture
Hawa Mahal, Jaipur – Ankur Bagai
The Rajputs have immensely contributed to the historical and cultural landscape of the country. There are, of course, many contributions made by the community, however, one that stands out is Rajput architecture. The state of Rajasthan is ablaze with astounding architectural brilliance. But the architectural extravaganza is also seen in many other parts of the country.
Some of the temples built by Rajputs include the Rathas in Mahabalipuram and the temples at Ellora. The Pallava, Hoysala, and Chola temples, the Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneshwar, Jagannath Temple at Puri, and the Khajuraho temples are also built by the Rajputs.
One of the most mesmerizing aspects of Rajput architecture has been the opulent palaces and fortifying forts. Let’s take a look at some of their best architectural marvels.
The Hill Forts are a great reflection of Rajput architecture. The forts at Chittor, Amer, Ranthambore, Jaisalmer, Gagron, and Kumbhalgarh are a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. All these are built on hills with magnificent towers and secure walls. The Chittorgarh Fort is the largest in India and was the capital of Mewar. The Jaisalmer Fort is a ‘living fort’, with some of the city’s population still residing within its walls. Built by Rajput king Jaisal the huge yellow sandstone fort is also known as the Golden Fort or Sonar Qila.
The Ranthambore Fort lies within the Ranthambore National Park. It was held by Chauhans or the Chahamanas until the Delhi Sultanate took it over. The Amber Fort a few kilometers from Jaipur was built by Raja Man Singh. These forts are sprawling structures that house temples, palaces, halls, and exquisite interiors. Some of the forts include the Jaigarh Fort, Mehrangarh Fort built by Raja Jodha, Junagarh Fort, Lohagarh Fort, Alwar Fort, Bhangarh Fort to name a few.
The forts thus are in fact, the most important and striking architectural wonders of the Rajputs. The sense of security, protection from the enemy, safeguarding pride, and courage are some of the essential values that the Rajputs have carried with them over generations. These sentiments are perhaps, best manifested through their sturdy forts. That not only signify strength, but also strategy and good governance.
The Rajput kings or Maharaj’s were true to their palatial lifestyle. Some of the best palaces are placed within the walls of forts, making the entire complex an exquisite site of strength and delicacy. The Amber Palace, for example, is one of the most beautiful palaces in Jaipur. Located within the Amber Fort, the palace has six different entrances and courtyards.
The City Palace built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in 1723 is in the heart of Jaipur. Again with many gateways of pol, halls that include the Diwan-e-Khas and Diwan-e – Aam. Along with a temple and now a museum the palace is a great showcase of royalty.
Jal Mahal situated in the middle of Man Sagar Lake is a palace that perhaps can’t get any better. Built by Maharaja Jai Singh II, the palace is five-storied sandstone with hallways, chhatris, and magnificent paintings. The Vinay Vilas Mahal in Alwar was built by Maharaja Vinay Singh. It is home to well-crafted windows, rooms, hallways, and facades. The Lalgarh Palace in Bikaner is an elegant testimony to the Indo-Saracenic architectural style. The Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur was built by Maharaja Umaid Singh and took almost 15 years to complete. With royal galleries and majestic automobiles, the palace is a heritage hotel too.
No list of palaces can be quite complete without the Hawa Mahal. Some of the other palaces include Rani Padmini’s Palace inside Chittorgarh Fort. The Deeg Palace, Juna Mahal, Chhattar Mahal in Bundi, Lalgarh Palace in Bikaner, and more. But Udaipur remains quite the place for palaces for sure. With a litany of astounding and stunning palaces, Udaipur is the destination for royalty, class, and majesty. Some of these include the City Palace, Lake Palace, Monsoon Palace, etc. Of course, most of the palaces have been converted to heritage hotels and resorts. Their grandeur is probably unmatched elsewhere.
There are a few architectural nuances that are special to Rajput buildings and structures. The Indo-Aryan style was common in northern India, whereas, the Dravidian style in southern India. However, the influence of Mughal architecture or perhaps the integration of Islamic and Hindu architecture is best seen in Rajput structures. The Islamic elements inspired by Mughal architecture, as well as the local cultural styles, meet together in the architecture of the Rajputs.
Havelis with pretty and intricate frescos and courtyards were trademark styles. Built-in the Shekhawait and Marwar areas. Jharokhas, the overhanging balconies which acted like screens are one of the most prominent architectural elements. The Rajput women were cognizant of purdah or keeping their distance from men. The screens allowed them to watch the proceedings without invading their privacy. Similarly, chhatris or pavilions that are dome-shaped were built on the cemeteries as cenotaph memorials. Some of the excellent cenotaphs are Bada Bagh in Jaisalmer, Ahar Cenotaphs, Jaswant Thada in Jodhpur, and more.
Another significant feature of the Rajput architecture is its step wells. A bawdi one can climb down the well-designed in intricate geometric patterns with fantastic scientific understanding. The step wells in Bundi are one of well-known architectural delight.
Rajput architecture also includes city or town planning. Several rulers built cities and the planning was well thought and practiced. Housed inside the forts, the cities have distinct structures and demarcated functions.
Conclusion
The Rajput community has been an essential part of the Indian narrative. Yet, its strongest character lies in its fluidity. Unlike a lot of other castes or classes, the Rajputs historically have integrated with all sections of society and allowed their community to grow both vertically and laterally. Its members were agriculturists, tribals, Kshatriyas, and more, all finding a way to come together to reinforce values of humanity, goodness, and valor. Though it did get to hereditary fortune. Nonetheless, the overall idea of equality, loyalty, and courage resonates through all Rajput architecture, culture, and of course, its tales.
Indian traditional wear has a different charm that makes the style so much in demand. Indian ethnic wear is such an elegant fashion that people willingly opt for it for various occasions, even foreigners. Irrespective of age or reason of the gathering, people like to deck up in the vibrant colors our ethnic wear offers.
Changing fashion needs to call for an upgrade, even of ethnic wear. In recent times traditional wear has become more accessible and fashionable, suiting the choice of most. Online shopping is a platform that enables people to indulge in their shopping spree easily. It is a very convenient accommodation without the pains of crowds, sweat, and jam.
In this article, we will list the top 10 websites to buy Indian ethnic wear from. The unending need for traditional wear calls for top-notch sites that serve the demands of high fashion. Read on to find out which website suits your fashion taste.
Tjori is a new and unique online shopping platform particular to ethnic wear. It is an online brand that brings together customers and artists from across India and around the world. Their holistic approach to uplift the distinctive style of traditional wear has caught the attention of many customers. Tjori has a versatile collection serving the needs of most of its customers successfully. Their kid’s and men’s collections are also very charming.
For those who like their ethnic wear, trendy and comfortable, try out Tjori for your new traditional collections. Tjori will help jazz up your ethnic look with their dynamic collection.
Biba is not exclusively an online fashion brand, but they do provide online services. It is a label famous for its spunky women’s ethnic wear collection. The brand name has existed for some time now, and Biba has effectively proven its mark with skilled professionalism for serving its customers. Their modern take on the Indo-Western style has made many women stop and buy from their stores. Given the current pandemic situation, their online service has kept shopping enthusiasts busy. Biba is purely a women’s clothing brand, and their little girls’ collection is also a definite try.
Biba’s comprehensive collection is funky and vibrant. Their sequence works, embroidery, and tasteful colors coordinate the entire look. The Indo-Western stylization helps working women choose Biba more often.
Global Desi is an affluent contemporary ethnic wear brand, much like the name suggests. The label is also not exclusively online and has numerous offline stores. Their online venture helps sustain the demands of rising customers. Global Desi is “a vibrant and free-spirited brand of the boho-chic ensemble,” as reads their description. Their aesthetic collection catches the eye of many modern traditional wear lovers. This brand is also women only. They offer a wide range of ethnic wear. Sarees, Kurtis, and sundresses in the ethnic style are patents of Global Desi.
The ladies who like to go boho for their outings will love the Global Desi collection. Their colorful variant options spoil a girl to choose one from the other.
W for Women is another long-running contender of brands providing choice-able ethnic wear for women. It has many offline stores around the nation and has an equally successful online store. The theme of their fashion is mix-and-match, and their range of daily wear and festive wear is very tasteful. They provide options for a wide range of stylish Kurtis and also fancy ethnic prints dresses.
Their online store has made it easier for ladies to avail their products. The intelligent choice that W provides is very suitable for working women also.
The House of Indya is available both online and offline. Indya’s products are top-class designer fashion with Bollywood star Shraddha Kapoor as their brand ambassador. The motto of the label’s products is modern-ethnic wear. The diverse options available in this store caters to the need for different tastes and choices. Their gorgeous and trendy take on ethnic wear has made them launch online to reach their global customers.
Indya is a brand that promises high-quality designs and materials for its products. Their vivid range of festive wear will surely catch your eyes.
Instagram is one of the OTT platforms that has launched some budding entrepreneurs who specialize in ethnic wear. Suta Bombay is one such online store that reflects beautifully on Instagram. Suta is a quintessentially saree store. Their collection, though, is highly fashionable. Sujata and Tanya launched their brand and are now one of the leading online stores that fulfill modern demands for the traditional six yards.
Suta Bombay experiments with various hues, patterns, and designs on sarees, and their friendly price range adds to their charm. Ladies who like a chic and minimal look when draping a saree, definitely check out Suta Bombay’s online store. You will be spoilt for choices.
Chakori Ethnic is another online store with its success reflecting on its Instagram page. Its forte is also a wide variety of sarees. They provide an equally tasteful minimalist and gorgeous designs of sarees. Their collection is at par with modern demands. Chakori Ethnic delivers the right aesthetic vibes with their products that most women crave from ethnic wear.
Chakori Ethnic provides delectable choices for official and festive wear sarees. Their Instagram page beautifully highlights their successful journey of customer satisfaction.
Keyah Label is an online brand that has brought forward the new elegant take on ethnic wear. Their label focuses on sarees and functions formally through their Instagram and Facebook handles. Keyah Label successfully brings back the nostalgia all Indian girls have of draping their mothers and grandmothers’ saree and dupatta. Their simple designs and comfortable fabric make the perfect choice for any formal event or festive gathering.
Keyah Label is yet to launch its official website, but its online store is flourishing via Instagram and Facebook. Young and adult women can quickly get their hands on these beautiful sarees by using social media platforms.
Margazhii is a brand that offers both eye-soothing and comfortable sarees. They use tonal shades to create a balmy effect on the beholder and the wearer. They, too, are active on Instagram handling their customers successfully both through their website and social media page. The Margazhii brand’s social media handles and website bonus is their trendy combination of pairing Indian ethnic wear with statement silver jewelry.
Ladies who would like to get aesthetic prints and colored sarees, do check out Margazhii’s website. They also provide ideas on how to deck up in the six yards gorgeously and have a comfortable experience in it.
Jaypore is an Indian ethnic wear brand that takes pride in weaving traditional designs in contemporary cuts. This online store runs a robust website that curates traditional products ranging from handloom to personal care. Jaypore also has an equally eye-catchy men’s collection on their site.
Craftsvilla is all about becoming a classic in a world full of trends. Manoj and Monica Gupta founded Craftsvilla in 2011 to sell ethnic clothes and accessories on their eCommerce platform.
Craftsvilla.com utilizes a marketplace concept to capture India’s cultural diversity. They connect local artisans and designers directly to worldwide clients, thereby increasing their income, eliminating intermediaries, assisting them in the creation and promotion of their brands, and preserving culture, traditions, and values. This voyage, according to the brand, would not only benefit Indian creatives but will also allow customers to discover and purchase things that they would not be able to do otherwise.
The clothing designed by Soch complements the successes of today’s cosmopolitan woman at work, at home, and in leisure.
Soch is an unapologetic assortment of prints, colours, designs, and textiles that celebrates life and creation. Soch seeks to constantly update its line with fresher designs and outfits while blending years of traditions in an essence unmatched by any other brand. It has pioneered the term ‘fashion’ in the Indian ethnic setting, thanks to its high-quality hand-picked textiles, distinctive use of colours, complex embroidery, and beautifully rich Indian aesthetic. Soch offers an exclusive range of ethnic wear fashioned to perfection using the finest fabrics such as cotton, chiffon, crepe, silk, brocade, voile, and mixes obtained from various parts of India.
Fabindia is India’s largest private marketplace for products manufactured with traditional techniques, skills, and hand-based processes.
Fabindia connects over 55,000 rural craft producers to modern metropolitan markets, building a foundation for skilled, long-term rural employment while also preserving India’s traditional handicrafts. Fabindia’s garments are handwoven and made from hand-printed fabrics, and the company’s products appeal to clients on an aesthetic level. Fabindia’s products are categorised as totally organic, in-conversion, or natural.
Chidiyaa is for the free-spirited, for those who use clothing to express themselves.
Chidiyaa is motivated by a desire to preserve Indian crafts and traditions. They believe in the beauty of handcrafted goods, where each item reflects the particular individuality of the artists they collaborate with. Chidiyaa’s mission is to unearth Indian history and take its customers on a fashion journey rich in storey, spirit, and legacy.
Chidiyaa maintains a classic silhouette while paying close attention to the fineness of the cloth utilised. The prints and weaves are created in-house and sourced from craftsmen in villages across India. Chidiyaa aims to provide you with age-old crafts with a niche, from exquisite hand blocks from the desert of Kutch to timeless weaves from Andra and regal silks from Banaras.
Libas Impex, defined as young, stylish and modern, is a fashion brand that conveys the tale of a new generation of Indian women that are free-spirited, independent, and aware. Libas’ ongoing goal is to offer a contemporary, stylish, and lively variety of ethnic and fusion apparel that is meticulously picked in accordance with global fashion trends. They specialise in kurtas, but they also provide a large selection of bottom wear and dupattas that you may mix and match to create your ideal combination.
Loomers and weavers are the final remains of the unmechanised era that valued craftsmanship above all else. They are the last defenders of traditional Indian weave craftsmanship, which still uses handlooms to create the sarees of our dreams.
The objective of TheiaScape was to find and give a speciality platform for all of the colourful local arts and handicrafts that resonate with our culture. As a result, when one selects Handloom, they are choosing legacy over all else. Their weaves, trinkets, and lifestyle products are all handcrafted, eco-friendly, and fashion-forward, as envisioned and innovated by the most outstanding artisans across the subcontinent.
Each saree, according to TheiaScape, has its own set of facts and a unique tale to tell.
Vimor, which means ‘pure,’ is a brand inspired by India’s handloom history. They’ve been designing and making magnificent, real, one-of-a-kind, exclusive handwoven sarees for more than half a century.
They are a brand that represents the resurgence of the time-honoured art of handloom saree design. The resurrection of traditional styles has been the focus of their efforts to create and sustain handloom saree weavers. All of their revival sarees are from Vimor’s own collection or from sarees donated by consumers. Handloom textiles are our collective history, and every woman should be able to afford and possess a piece of it, according to Vimor.
18. Ganga Fashions
A Designer Ethnic Brand, revolutionizing the textile world for 20 years, takes pride in its rich culture and heritage. Its artistry not only prioritizes the luxury of contemporary design but keeps comfort as well at the forefront.
Ganga Fashions constantly inspires through its immaculate philosophy for ethnicity by reaching out to millions of hearts.
It is one of the most trusted brands when it comes to meticulous detailing and quality. Their Exclusive Line of Designer Apparel includes a Distinct Craft of Embroidered or Printed Salwar Suits, Latest Kurta Sets, and Relaxed Fit Co-ord Sets.
The Contemporary Collection of these Ethnic and Fusion Crafts give the ranges for a variety of occasions. Be it Weddings, Festive Celebrations, Professional Events, or Casual Days, your outfit needs are covered with Ganga Fashions. You can even discover the line of Unstitched Salwar Suits and Loungewear Collections on the website.
To express yourself with an ethnic look that keeps you connected with the roots of culture, Ganga Fashions is the most affordable yet elegant.
In today’s technological world, websites and OTT social media platforms are excellent sources of shopping hassle-free. These online stores are running efficiently by providing customers with satisfactory products. The stores take pride in hosting vivid options in ethnic wear that make their customers return for more. For those gearing up to revamp your traditional wear closet, do give these stores a try. You might be pleasantly surprised to find the exact products you were searching for all this time.
For people who like to indulge in traditional wear with a contemporary take, do try out the Jaypore label. Their broad collection of ethnic wear will indeed have choices for you to pick.
In today’s technological world, websites and OTT social media platforms are excellent sources of shopping hassle-free. These online stores are running efficiently by providing customers with satisfactory products. The stores take pride in hosting vivid options in ethnic wear that make their customers return for more. For those gearing up to revamp your traditional wear closet, do give these stores a try. You might be pleasantly surprised to find the exact products you were searching for all this time.
“Unity in diversity“. These aren’t simply words; they’re a metaphor for a country like India, which is extraordinarily rich in culture and legacy. A few quotes or statements are insufficient to convey the prominence that India has on the global stage as a result of its vibrant and distinct culture. India has always been known for its customs of hospitality, from the time of the Mauryas, Cholas, and Mughals through the British Empire. The country stands out in the worldwide community because of the warmth in its interactions and the joy in its festivities. The country’s vibrant culture, which is an amalgamation of religions, festivals, food, art, crafts, dance, music, and many other subtle things, attracts a large number of travellers. In this ‘Land of Gods,’ everything is special,’ from the culture and ideals to the customs, ceremonies, and traditions.
So, here are a few quotes or sayings about the country that accurately capture the feelings of explorers, writers, and travellers regarding India. These quotes encapsulate India’s essence, enthusiasm, and energy.
“In India, it is believed that all creatures have a purpose.”- Mel Gibson
“India is a country in which every great religionfinds a home.”- Annie Besant
“India is a place where colour is doubly bright.Pinks that scald your eyes, blues you could drownin.” – Kiran Millwood Hargrave
“India will teach us the tolerance and gentleness of maturemind, understanding spirit and a unifying, pacifyinglove for all human beings.” – Will Durant
“In India, we celebrate the commonality of major differences; we are a land of belonging rather than of blood.” – Shashi Tharoor
“India will reveal to you the placesin your heart that mustbepurified.” – Erin Reese
“The land where humanity has attained its highest towards gentleness, towards generosity, towards purity, towards calmness – it is India.” – Swami-Vivekananda
“If India is not secular, then India is not India at all.” – Atal Bihari Vajpayee
“The world is the body and India is its life.” – Khalid Masood
“India is the cradle of the humanrace, the birthplace of humanspeech, the mother of history, the grandmother of legend, and the great–grandmother of tradition. Our most valuable and most instructive materials in the history of man are treasured up in India only.” – Mark Twain
“Time spent in India has an extraordinary effect on one. It acts as a barrier that makes the rest of the world seem unreal.” – Tahir Shah
“To other countries, I may go as a tourist, but to India, I come as a pilgrim.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.
“India is not a nation, nor a country. It is a subcontinent of nationalities” – Muhammad Ali Jinnah
“Waking up in India is like waking up to life itself.” – Reymond Page
“India teaches me again and again, that the categories into which I try to divide thingsdon’t hold up.” – Dena Moes
“India is not a country, but a home.” – Khalid Masood
“India has two million gods, and worships them all. In religion all other countries arepaupers; India is the only millionaire.” – Mark Twain
These statements and quotes clearly demonstrate the country’s importance in technology and culture, as well as how old Indian philosophy continues to provide wisdom and spirituality to this day. A country’s culture is not a separate entity. It can be found in every ounce of blood and manifests itself in the way people think and act. If one keeps this in mind at all times, culture and traditions will always be preserved and carried forward. Travellers to India will surely find that the land has a way of charming and enticing them!
I think we can all agree upon the fact whether it is adults working long hours or children laboring behind books all day – every person needs a vacation. Indeed, a getaway with our loved ones is needed now and then to rejuvenate our senses. And how lucky are we, for our very own beloved nation is packed with several such destinations which are sure to refresh us from the boredom of city life. The Southern state of Kerala is highly regarded all over India for its picturesque settings and delightful places. While we mostly tend to picture wide green plains and waterfalls when we talk about Kerala, most people do not know much about the exquisite Hill Stations found in the magnificent state. If statistics are to be believed, there are more than 50 amazing hill stations located across Kerala. Here is an article on some of the best hill stations located in Kerala which you must consider the next time you’re in Kerala!
Staying in Ponmudi is most probably the best summer retreat you could ask for! A beautiful hill station surrounded by lush greenery, a pleasant climate, and steep landscape, Ponmudi is rightly called ‘Kashmir of Kerala’. This charming hill station is situated not far from the popular city of Thiruvananthapuram and is quite famous amongst trekkers and adventure lovers. Ponmudi is every traveler’s paradise, with exuberant tea gardens sprawled across many acres of land and a plethora of fascinating flora and fauna. Indulge in this wonderful amalgamation of landscape comprising of forests, rivers, mountains, and ravines as you unwind in its serene beauty!
Located in the Idukki district of Kerala, Munnar is a splendid hill station boasting a breath-taking natural beauty. It is filled with vast lands of lovely green shades and several waterfalls, lakes, and trekking spots. Visit Munnar and I guarantee you that you will not be bored. The picturesque tea plantations built in the 19th century by British officials are enchanting and wholesome. Once you experience the thin, white mist on top of the hill station, you are sure to fall in love with this place. Additionally, you can also visit the nearby tourist destinations to have a wondrous day.
If you want to relish in self-company and need some me time, there is no better place than Vagamon. Situated in the same district as Munnar, Vagamon is visited by several tourists every year. It is blessed with beautiful tree-covered mountains, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests. Vagamon is fairly isolated from the rest of Kerala thus you can expect the peace that you’re looking for. Moreover, the pine forestry found in this place is also note-worthy. Pay a visit to the famed Poonjar Palace and Meenachil River in Vagamon to have a pleasant time.
Another addition to the list of beautiful hill stations in Kerala, Thekkady is heaven on Earth. This spectacular hill station is extremely admirable and famous for its eco-tourism. One prominent feature of Thekkady is the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. One can expect to see many different species of wildlife, one of which is its magnanimous elephants. You’ll also find solace in exploring Periyer Lake while on a boat ride or elephant safari. Ah, doesn’t this sound heavenly to you?
Can you think of any place whose beauty remains deeply engraved in your mind? Well, Lakkidi is precisely that place. This aesthetic hill station is located just at the gateway to the Wayanad district of Kerala. It stands high above the sea level and the climate is chilly throughout the year. In fact, due to the high level of rainfall that it receives, it is also christened as ‘Chirapunjee of Kerala’. Another major attraction of the place is the diverse wildlife. The forests of Lakkidi contain the lion-tailed macaques, Indian Stag, and several other exotic animals. Although small in size, Lakkidi is sure to make your heart grow with glee plenty!
Ranipuram is one of the most attractive and popular places to visit in the Kasaragod district. This splendid destination is a must-see site in your itinerary. Erstwhile known as Madathumala, it shares its borders with Karnataka. Interestingly, the Ranipuram hill has several forms of vegetation and also has a wide range of flora ranging from shola forests to graceful moors. Even the breeze here is said to be medicinal due to the presence of the lemongrass in the meadows. The Ranipuram hill is a great place to be with your family and friends to witness the exotic wildlife and nature.
An excellent escapade from monotony comes to you in the form of Silent Valley! One of the best ecological preserved parks in India, Silent Valley presents to us the pristine beauty of Mother Nature in its true form. Silent Valley contains one of the highest numbers of mammals (over 34 species). It also houses a high number of rare species of flora and fauna such as the Malabar giant squirrel, Nilgiri langur, and many more. Moreover, Silent Valley has other treats in store for you in the form of several fun activities such as bird watching, fishing, and plantation visit.
Tell me, would you like to retreat where the Maharajas of earlier times would retreat? Peermedu is a must-see hill station in Kerala with brilliant pine forests, open hills, and cool waterfalls. According to sources, Peermedu was the favorite place of retreat of the Travancore maharajas and it was also inhabited by several tribes before that. The region is highly fertile and devoted to coffee, cardamom, coconut plantations, and spice farming. So, the moment you enter this gorgeous place your senses will be hit with the aromatic smell of fresh spices. Sounds tempting, no?
While I have named but a few hill stations in Kerala, there are numerous more popular hill stations in Kerala which deserve your attention. The Malabar state of Kerala is Mother Nature’s gift to India. We highly recommend you to visit Kerala along with your friends and family. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
The Sun has been a source of both spiritual and physiological benefits since time immemorial. Life, as we know it, would not have been sustainable without the heat and light from the Sun. The Sun’s significance and its respect is an essential aspect of lifestyle for many civilizations. Incorporating their gratitude towards Sun is not just about beliefs but has many health benefits associated with it. Surya Namaskar or Sun Salutation is a primordial form of offering respect to the Sun.
Surya Namaskar is not only significant for its conspicuous sign of respect but also its implicit benefits. By sparing only 10 minutes to perform this exercise, one can witness visible changes in their health. In today’s busy corporate life, incorporating a healthy routine can be a task. The Surya Namaskar is one such exercise that does not demand a lot of time and still qualifies as a panacea.
Here are some of the secrets of Surya Namaskar that make it such a prescribed form of exertion.
Maintain Discipline while Surya Namaskar
Having a 9-to-5 job or hectic college life, discipline for a healthy lifestyle is lacking for many individuals. Taking time out, say an hour or two, to exercise can be challenging. Surya Namaskar can be of aid here.
Very minimal yet effective, Surya Namaskar takes up only 10 minutes of your time. As the name suggests, Surya Namaskar is ideally an exercise to perform in the morning. More ideally, it was performed at the crack of dawn, right during the sunrise in the old days. In the present time, those who can manage to wake up that early are commendable in themselves. Even if one cannot be an early riser, performing the Surya Namaskar at any time of the day will still be equally beneficial.
Incorporating the 10-minute workout in your daily life will help bring discipline to your life. Irrespective of one’s dynamic schedule, some sort of stability is necessary for all. Surya Namaskar can help bring that stability.
Effective Burning of Calories
Image – Akshay Gupta
To explain the benefits of Yoga may take up this entire article. Even after introducing modern workout regimes, the place of Yoga and its efficacies remain the same.
Surya Namaskar is a form of Yoga. Moreover, it is a full-body exercise. In the modern counterpart workouts, a half an hour exercise may burn up to 199, 232, 298, 364, and 414 calories for weightlifting, tennis, football, rock climbing, and running, respectively. Performing the Surya Namaskar for half an hour burns 417 calories, the highest among all exercises above. A 10-minute regime of Surya Namaskar burns 139 calories.
Surya Namaskar is known as ‘The Ultimate Asana’. Surya Namaskar is one of the most refined forms of exercise even in modern times, from strengthening your back and muscles to lowering your blood sugar levels. It helps with metabolism and blood circulation. For women, it aids in ensuring a regular menstrual cycle. It also helps cure insomnia. From burning calories to aiding in curing other elements, Surya Namaskar indeed has a lot of advantages.
Surya Namaskar: A Cyclic performance of 7 asanas
The Surya Namaskar consists of 7 asanas. These seven asanas are performed in a cyclic order resulting in 12 asanas in total. All these asanas have individual benefits. Though some of the asanas are repetitive, here are the names and their advantages-
1. Pranamasana
Namaskar means a sign of greeting. It begins by and intends to greet the Sun. The exercise starts in a prayer position by standing upright. To begin the activity, this posture helps one calm their mind and body.
2. Hastauttanasana
A stretching pose, this posture requires one to lift their hand and bend their back backwards gradually. While in this pose, slowly inhale. This helps to stretch their chest and abdominal region and bring the energy flow to their upper body.
3. Padahastasana
The previous pose helps in beginning the exercises by stretching the abdominal area. This posture further massages the belly. One needs to slowly and thoroughly exhale and bend their upper body forward and try touching the floor. Make sure that your spine and legs are straight. This asana helps in digestion, enhances blood flow to the brain, and aids in women’s ailments.
4. Ashwa Sanchalanasana
A runner’s beginner pose, this asana stretches our spine further and stimulates abdominal organs. After Padahastasana, start bending your right knee towards your chest and extend your left leg backwards. Raise your head and look forward. Throughout, maintain an equilibrium in breathing and perform it slowly.
5. Parvatasana
The downward-facing dog pose, Parvatasana, helps strengthen your arms and legs. It also relieves the varicose veins. By breathing out and lifting your waist, the body makes an inverted ‘V’ pose. This pose also stretches the calf and spine muscles.
6. Dandasana
Dandasana is also known as the Chaturanga Dandasana or the Four-Limbed Staff pose. It is a low plank pose that helps improve body posture. It reinforces the back muscles and spine and also stretches the shoulder and chest.
7. Ashtanga Namaskar
In the Eight-Limb pose, Ashtanga Namaskar requires the chin, chest, hands, and knees to be on the ground. Only the hip needs to be in the air. This asana also helps in strengthening the chest, arms, and legs.
8. Bhujangasana
The cobra pose, Bhujangasana, requires you to bring down your hip and, while inhaling, place your legs and midsection on the ground. Bend your back and keep your head up. Ensure even breathing. This asana is known to relieve tension from the back and spine. It is effective for mild sciatica and is therapeutic for asthma.
9. Parvatasana
Here starts the cyclic repetition. Going back to the first step, the opening prayer posture is done again.
10. Ashwa Sanchalasana
In a repetition of the fourth step, the left leg is brought forward, and the right leg is stretched backwards.
11. Padahastasana
Exact repetition of the Padahastasana pose.
12. Hastauttanasana
Again, a repetition of the Hastauttanasana pose.
This entire cyclic exercise can be undertaken as many times as one sees fit. With the asanas’ benefits, the whole Surya Namaskar helps in motoring the major body parts. From strengthening to stretching muscles, the exercise is perfect for weight loss and toning the body. If one performs the workout with proper regulation of their breathing and maintaining the postures, they can see visible results.
Apart from the above benefits, the other secrets of the Surya Namaskar are-
It stimulates our nervous system.
Surya Namaskar helps strengthen the immune system.
It helps in maintaining cardiovascular health.
Results in glowing skin.
Helps to detox the body.
It helps deal with anxiety.
Enhances cognitive functions.
Aids in overall improvement of the mind and body.
Yoga has been a part of scientific research and development for a long time now. Surya Namaskar, an exercise of Yoga, has many scientific benefits. A simple and effective workout, the Surya Namaskar helps in many aspects of one’s lifestyle. From good physical health to inner spiritual development, the Surya Namaskar helps spread a positive vibration in your body. By making the exertion a part of your daily life, from physical to psychological to spiritual, the secret of Surya Namaskar will surely improve your life.
Different people have a different idea of vacationing. For some it might mean a peaceful, quiet experience spent in the midst of calming nature. For some vacationing may be all about spending time with family, whereas for others it could mean a solo trip or valuable ‘me’ time. Where some might want to laze and relax it out, for some a vacation or holiday may be all about adventure and adrenaline.
An overview
For those who look for fun and action for a few days, adventure sporting destinations are a wonderful option. Adventure sporting refers to any of those activities that revolve around speed, risk or any kind of physical action. Secretly, I am sure even the most laid back of vacationers wouldn’t mind trying at least one adventure sport in their lifetime, just for its kicks. We are often wowed by the people performing life altering, sometimes threatening stunts. These could be heart pounding such as mountain biking or bungee jumping. Or soul altering such as scuba diving or a hot air balloon ride.
There are those adventure activities that bring us closer to nature, be it trekking or camping. And then there are those that are worth all the effort for the sheer satisfaction at the end of it all, such as rock climbing or ice climbing. But every adventure sport is however, largely about fighting the internal demons of fear and terror. Of letting go of inhibitions and believing in the power or self. It is also of course, about following safety measures and trusting your instincts. About not getting arrogant or too carried away, yet finding the right balance of outwitting fear to face victory.
If you are someone who likes to take the plunge and explore the brave corners of adventure sports, then read on. Here we bring to you the top seven destinations in India that are a must visit if you are an adventure and adrenaline sporting junkie. But even if you are a laid back traveler who likes to take things slow, it is worth checking these destinations out for sure. Because who doesn’t like, if not always, but at least once in a while, to counter and brave the seemingly impossible.
Rishikesh in Uttarakhand is one of the leading destinations when it comes to adventure sports in India. There are a few activities that one can enjoy in Rishikesh, however the most popular adventure sport is river rafting. Rishikesh is also known as the Gate to the Himalayas and white water rafting along the Ganga River is one of the most fascinating sporting adventures to endure here. The city has various rafting related training and booking facilities. Also, the Ganga is perfect for rafting experience because it has different Grades from I to IV of rapids and ups and downs to traverse. Some of the rapids such as Double Trouble and Sweet Sixteen are extremely fun and exciting. In total there are around 13 rapids across the river that adventure lovers can enjoy. The best time for white rafting in Rishikesh is from September to June, though you can avoid the winter months if you are not someone who is too fond of the chill.
Besides, white water rafting, Rishikesh is also known for bunjee jumping. Rishikesh has one of the highest Bunjee jumping platform or podium in India. Falling from a height of 83m with the Ganga plunging below is definitely one of the best thrilling experience one can have. Some of the other adventure sporting activities in Rishikesh include giant swings, flying fox, mountain climbing, kayaking and paragliding.
Goa needs no introduction when it comes to water sports. With myriad beaches, one is never short of water sporting activities in Goa. Water sports has a whole range of stuff that one can try out. From flyboarding, surfing, water skiing, snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing, windsurfing, water scooters, river cruising, rafting and more Goa is heaven for those who want to splash their way through water adventure sports. Also, because Goa is a popular tourist destination a lot of international travelers also make their way here. The standard and security for various water sports is good and there are multiple agents and facilities to choose from. Again, depending on the water sporting activity that you want to try you can choose the particular destination within Goa itself. For example, Candolim and Mobor are well known for knee boarding and wakeboarding. Similarly, Baga, Utorda and Calangute are popular for water skiing, Morjim for kite boarding, Arambol and Baga for parasailing etc. On the other hand, popular destinations such as Baga, Mobor, Palolem and Calangute have many water sporting adventures to avail from.
Besides water sports, some of the other adventure sports popular in Goa include, camping, hot air balloon rides, trekking, hiking etc.
The northeast of India has some gems for sure. Meghalaya is one such destination that is fraught with adventure sports. The best is of course caving. Meghalaya is the land of caves tucked inside forests and waterfalls. For explorers taking a walk inside the caves is a wonderful experience as one understands the change in temperature and the beauty that stands out within its walls. Shillong has many caves waiting to be discovered and Mawjymbuin Caves is located in one of the wettest places in the world. Exploring the caves is also a much less expensive adventure than many other adventure sporting activities.
Besides caving you can also try out river canyoning in Sohra. One would need to swim, trek and also feel the sheer force of the waterfalls around. Water rappelling is also quite popular especially at the Elephant Falls in Shillong. One can also try mountain biking, trekking and water sports at the Umiam Water complex for more adventure sports.
When one thinks of the Andamans, you are struck by the pristine water beauty of the place. The adventure sporting scene in Andaman is no different for it explores the innocent splendidness of the region. Scuba diving is however Andaman’s most priced adventure sport. Best done at Havelock Island, North Bay Island and Neil Island, the colorful and absolute magnificent beauty of the underwater will definitely transcend through space and time. The other adventure activities in Andaman include sea walking, another heart touching activity, boating on glass bottom boats, banana boat rides, snorkeling, kayaking, parasailing, jet skiing, water skiing and more.
Ladakh is all about the mighty Himalayas. Trekking is Ladakh’s most important forte into adventure activities. There are a number of different trekking experiences that can be undertaken depending on experience and physical strength. Some treks are advised for veteran trekkers, whereas many can be accomplished by novices too. Some of the popular treks in Ladakh include the stunning Chadar trek which is a walk along the frozen Zaskar River during the winters. Some of the other treks are the Stok Kangri trek, the Markha Valley trek and more.
Besides, trekking mountain biking is another exciting dare to try out here because of the daunting landscape. There is also river rafting on Zaskar and Indus, camping, rock climbing and many other adventure sporting activities to try out in Ladakh.
Rajasthan is a historical adventure. But there is much more to it when it comes to thrills. The hot air balloon rides in Pushkar are by far one of the best bird eye views that one can hope for. The landscape of the region unfolds as one rises up and the views from top are magnificent. The hot air balloons are very popular during the Pushkar Camel Fair. Besides, Jaipur is also well known for paragliding and Udaipur and Alwar are great water sport destinations.
Rajasthan’s adventures continue with camping in the desert and visiting its various wildlife abodes at Bharatpur, Jodhpur and Bikaner. Besides, one can also try trekking, zip lining, jeep safari and more in Rajasthan. So next time when you are awed by the royal beauty of the state, take some time out for its adventure sports too.
There are a few destinations that you can try for winter sporting activities if you enjoy the chills as much as the thrill. Gulmarg is great for skiing and ice climbing too. One can climb up the frozen waterfalls during winter with proper training and safety equipment. Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh are also under the cover of snow and hence Auli is another splendid skiing destination for both beginners and experienced adventurers. Some other skiing destinations include Tawang, Solang, Pahalgam and more.
There are other adventure sporting destinations, such as Amby Valley in Maharashtra and Mysore for skydiving, Kasauli for hang gliding, Bir for paragliding, Dandeli for trekking and many more.
Finally, let not the adventure in you subside ever. It’s time to take the leap of faith and enjoy the adrenaline rush of fear and victory by vacationing at the various adventure sporting destinations in India.
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