Weird structures on mountains

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Ramzan Mubarak

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137the Jagannath Rath Yatra begins with fervour

Amid tight security, the 137th edition of Lord Jagannath's rathyatra began in Ahmedabad on Monday (June 29) morning from the ancient Jagannath Temple in Jamalpur area.

Devotees participate in the procession while policemen try to manage the crowd during Lord Jagannath's Rath Yatra.

As per the century old tradition, elephants had the first glimpse of Lord Jagannath and are leading the procession through different parts of the city.

Aerial view of Lord Jagannath's 137th Rath Yatra.

After setting off from the over 400 year-old iconic temple, the rathyatra will traverse through about 14 kilometre route in the city.

Devotees gather at Jagannath Temple for Lord Jagannath's 137th Rath Yatra in Ahmedabad.

Elaborate security measures have been put in place to ensure peaceful passage of the rathyatra where lakhs of people from the city and outside would participate.

The procession would comprise 18 elephants, 100 trucks, 30 religious congregations, 18 singing troupes, three chariots and seven cars. The procession will pass through 127 localities, including some sensitive areas like Kalupur, Prem Darwaja, Delhi Chakla, Dariyapur and Shahpur in the old city, amid tight security arrangements.

Gujarat Chief Minister Anandi Patel performed the 'Pahind Vidhi' for the rathyatra with a 'golden-broom' (symbolic cleaning of the path for chariot of Lord Jagannath).
The first woman chief minister of Gujarat also pulled the chariot, after which the procession of Lord Jagannath, brother Lord Baldev and their sister Subhadra began.

Anandiben Patel at the Rath Yatra.

A Hindu devotee wears a t-shirt depicting Prime Minister Narendra Modi as Lord while the other flaunts her tattoo of Lord Jagannath during Lord Jagannath's Rath Yatra in Ahmedabad.

The procession halts at Saraspur, where the local people offer 'Maha Bhoj' to the entire entourage. Saraspur area of the city has religious significance as it is considered as Lord Jagannath's maternal home.

Devotees clad in saffron and white participate in Lord Jagannath's 137th Rath Yatra.

Devotees participate in Jagannath Rath Yatra in Allahabad.

Devotees chant holy slogans before the commencement of Lord Jagannnath Rath Yatra in Allahabad.

Devotees pull the rope of Lord Jagannnath's chariot on the occasion of Jagannath Rath Yatra in Allahabad.

Saina Nehwal

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ELLORA CAVES

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The Great Himalayan National Park

A View Of The Great Himalayan National Park

The Great Himalayan national park is the pride of Himachal Pradesh.It is the richest biodiversity hub of India. It is located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. It is the favorite place of adventurous and best place for trekking. The Great Himalayan National Park spread over the 1736 sq. km. and elevated 6000m above from the sea level. it also includes two watershed areas, Tirthan and Sainj which covers an area of about 905 sq km.Lofty hills, snow capped peaks, rich deep forest, undulating meadow, glaciers and wonderful rhythmic cascades make this National park very beautiful and incredible.

Western Tragopan

It is one of the National Parks in the world which have a large number of the endangered western Tragopan.It is a natural habitat of a large number of species and very rich in natural beauty. The park is isolated by natural barriers from all sides. It is embodied with the 675 sq-km Pin Valley National Park in the cold desert of Spiti in Trans-Himalaya, the 61-km Kanawar Wildlife Sanctuary in Kullu and 503 sq-km Rupi-Bhawa Wildlife Sanctuary in Kinnaur. It supports a full range of western Himalayan biodiversity and protects other islands of biodiversity around.

Black Bear

Herd Of Blue Sheep

Leopards

The park is a natural home to many species, making it a perfect habitat for medicinal plants, wildlife and biological diversity in a small area. It supports species of the South-east Asian forests, subtropical, alpine, the Asian steppes and Siberia. The Himalayan Tahr is found in the higher region of the forest of GHNP and the goral which is the small goat found in the lower forests. The above the tree line the Blue Sheep or the Bharal snatch your heart. Different regions or different height of this park is full with the different kind of species. A forest zone of this park is full with the Leopards and Snow Leopards often seen above the tree line. The Alpine meadows are famous for Asiatic Brown Bears.

Siberian Musk Deer

Golden Eagle

Himalayan Monal

The Great Himalayan National Park is also famous for the miraculous variety of birds. It is most renowned for Western Tragopan. Himalayan Griffon Vultures, Himalayan Monal and Golden Eagles are the major attraction of the Great Himalayan National Park.

A Panoramic View From TheGreat Himalayan National Park

Amongst the several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in India, the Great Himalayan National Park has made an immortal mark in the world. It is indeed one of the best places for an adventurous and wildlife vacation in Himachal Pradesh. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast or nature lover or an adventurer at heart, GHNP offers best opportunity for wildlife vacations in Himachal Pradesh. So, be proud of this great natural habitat of large variety of flora and fauna in the lap of Himalayan.

Things To Do In The North-East

The unexplored terrain of the north-east is like that magical world concealed behind a door that only opens for a lucky few. The unexplored beauty of this part of the country makes it even more spellbinding that one could even imagine. For some reasons, the north-eastern states have been the least visited tourist destinations in India, in spite of being blessed with wondrous natural charm. Because of being culturally distinct, this region is often mistaken to be a foreign land. Whether it is the lack of knowledge or just the lethargy behind not wanting to discover something new, people rarely consider north-east for their recreational trips. Not many dare to explore the rustic bejewel of the states in the north-east; but those who do are stunningly baffled by what they discover! North-east has just so much to be tried out that one might actually need hell lot of a time to be through with everything! But just like any other place this region too has some significant things that are unique to the states in the north-east. Things which are a must do if you plan to take a trip to the north-east region. So today let us bring you some glimpses of the most popular things of the things that make these states a resplendent part of this country! A list of some of the most exciting things to be done in the north-east comes your way:

1. Attend the Hornbill Festival of Nagaland

Nagaland is a tribal state with a fairly rich cultural heritage and profound natural beauty. The tribes inhabiting this place celebrate festivals with utmost gaiety and fun. The Hornbill Festival, celebrated in the month of December, is the “Festival of the Festivals”! Rich, colorful, exhilarating and full of happiness, this festival is the biggest event of the north-east.

2. Try out Elephant Safari in Assam

A world heritage site, the Kaziranga National Park is like the identity of Assam. Though it houses about 40 species of mammals, it is precisely known for the one-horned rhino exclusively found at this place. To make the most of this park, try discovering the area on an Elephant Safari. The gaiting walk of the elephants will amuse you immensely.

3. Go for trekking in Yuksom

The Goechala trek in the state of Sikkim is the most popular trek of the north-east. It almost takes 7-8 days to cover the trek completely, though one could break the distance to make it convenient. Its remote location makes it one of the most interesting treks of India. This long stretch through the forests and valleys proves to be a trekker’s delight!

4. Sip in a cup of tea at the Tea Gardens of Assam

You have no idea about the authentic taste of the tea unless you have had a cup of the amazing black-tea of Assam. World’s largest tea growing region, Assam is a state of lush green tea gardens which not only produce the finest tea but also accentuate the beauty of the state. It is truly astonishing to see how every leaf of tea is meticulously chosen by the women of Assam.

5. Shop at the Mother Market in Manipur

The Ema Bazaar or the Mother Market is a very unique market run only by women. It proudly denotes the power of women in the society. Having built in the 1533 AD, it also qualifies as one of the oldest markets in India. Everything including handicrafts, pots, shawls, puppets, vegetables, local dishes etc. can be found at this market.

6. Camp at the valley of flowers in Dzukou

Dzukou Valley is one of the finest exemplars of unprecedented celestial beauty found in the north-east. Adorned by lilies and summer flowers, this valley is known for its biodiversity. The ambiance here is exceptionally quiet and serene and is considered to be ideal for the rejuvenation of the mind. The best time to visit this place is from June to September.

7. Enjoy Boating at the Umiam Lake in Meghalaya

Umiam Lake is a reservoir created by damming the Umiam River in the early 1960s. It is regarded as one of most visited tourist destinations in the north-east. The lake is used for various sporting activities such as Kayaking, Scooting, Water Cycling and Boating.

8. Watch Manipuri Rasleela

The cult of Radha and Krishna is an important part of the Manipuri Culture. The Rasleela performed by Krishna is imbibed in the Manipuri dance form and makes for a visual delight for its viewers. The divine feeling of watching the Rasleela is a priced possession for those who have ever watched this dance live.

9. Visit the Cleanest Village of Asia

Mawlynnong in Meghalaya has been acclaimed as the cleanest village in the entire Asian Continent. This village is surprisingly ec0-friendly with not even a single form of plastic to be found anywhere. Bamboo garbage bins have been placed at every corner to ensure cleanliness in the city. The atmosphere is extremely pure and mesmeric.

10. Raise a toast of the local Rice Beer

Rice Beer is made by preparing the brew using the rice grains. It is the traditional drink of the North-East especially amongst the tribals. It is the patent drink of all the celebrations especially in the north-east. Since it is alcoholic in nature, only a small amount is sufficient to get you topsy-turvy.

The Best Five Art Galleries Of Mumbai

Understanding art is a unique potential of those who are blessed with the power of reading between the lines! For most of us, a piece of art may refer to the little drawings we have been making since childhood or perhaps something colorfully beautiful. But in actual sense Art is a complex idea which requires an unrestricted flow of thoughts and emotions. The further you take your thoughts, the better they will show up on the canvas. Over the recent years, art has become one of the finest mediums of expression, majorly used for social causes. What cannot be spoken, can always be weaved on the canvas!

With its growing importance, this magical arena has been commercialized so as to bridge the gap between art and its profound lovers! A number of art galleries have been set up for featuring the work of some of the greatest artists who have devoted their lives to artistry. Art is supposed to depict one’s dreams and aspirations; ironically, it is the city of dreams, Mumbai, which houses the best collection of art in its galleries! So especially for the art lovers, todaywe are going to write about the top five art galleries of Mumbai!

1. Volte

Nestled in the old Kamal Mansion in Colaba, this gallery was inaugurated in the year 2009. In a short time span, it has grown to become one of the most important galleries of the Mumbai Arts World. It is owned by Tushar Jiwarajka.

Address: 2/19, 1/F, Kamal Mahal, Arthur Bunder Road, Colaba

Phone: +91 (0)22 2204 1220

2. Project 88

Sprawling across a huge area of 4000 square feet, this gallery is located in a former 19th century press. It houses a stupendous collection of art work that has attracted the entire city. Gallery owner Sree Goswami is the reason behind the big name of this gallery.

Address: BMP Building, G/F, N.A. Sawant Marg, near Colaba Fire Station, Colaba

Phone: +91 (0)22 2281 0066

3. Tasveer

This gallery is quite different from the others in the sense that it showcases photographic arts. It houses the work of some of the most celebrated photographers, both national as well as international. In fact, the National Photographic Collective of India is a part of Tasveer.

Address: ICIA House, Rampart Row, 22/26 K Dubhash Marg, Kala Ghoda

Phone: +91 22 2204 8138

4. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya

Known as the Prince of Wales Museum of Western India in the earlier times, it was opened on public demand in the year 1914. The collection of work here showcases glimpses of the Mughal Era. A domed structure in South Mumbai forms this gallery.

Address: 159-161 Mahatma Gandhi Road, Fort

Phone: +91 2284 4484

5. Gallery Maskara

This gallery is large enough to park an aircraft since it is based in a warehouse. Owner Abhay Maskara chose to showcase his passion in this former grain factory stationed in Colaba. Works of artists from all over the world can be found at this giant art gallery.

Address: 6/7 Third Pasta Lane, Colaba

Phone: +91 22 2202 3056

Ten Things You Should Definitely NOT Do In Chennai!

The unspoken capital of South India, the city of Chennai is one of the biggest assets for India. Ever since the British Raj, the city has been an important center of trade and a major gateway to the south. With its sweltering heat, over-populated localities, austere beaches and penny plain architecture, Chennai isn’t really a visitor’s delight. Yet for its powerful status, it stands as one of the most visited cities of India.

Visiting a new city, that too with a totally different native language, can be quite a task for the first time. While there are things we should be doing in a city, there are plenty of things which you should definitely not risk doing! So unlike the usual idea of listing the must do activities, today we will bring into your knowledge some of the things that you should definitely not do while in Chennai! So here it goes:-

1. Tamilians are quite passionate about their mother-tongue and so you can never afford to be incapable of speaking Tamil. As they, “When in Rome, Do the Romans”, therefore learn a few words of their language to see more of smiling faces helping you negotiate your way.

2. Don’t mess with the Auto-walas! The auto-drivers in the city could rob you off your money by charging insane figures, especially if you don’t understand Tamil! The only way to be safe from the Auto-robbery is to use other public transports such as the bus and the metro.

3. Never step out without a bottle of water! Its dead-hot hot in Chennai with temperatures soaring stupendously high. It is impossible to survive the sweltering heat of Chennai without carrying with yourself a big bottle of water.

4. Don’t ever wear anything too short or revealing in Chennai, if you don’t want to be petrified with excruciating glares of the people. No matter how tempted you are to free yourself off the clothing baggage, drop the idea and dress wisely and decently!

5. Don’t litter! The beaches in Chennai may not be as pristine as the others but that definitely doesn’t give you any right to spoil them anyhow. Chennai has been very diligent in trying to clean the city and so disregarding their efforts will definitely not be the right thing to do!

6. Do not Smoke! Take the warning as seriously as you can when it comes to smoking in the city. Smoking in the public areas will earn you nothing but a free trip to the police station! Chennai has very strict smoking laws and you better abide by them!

7. Never chance upon poking fun at their film industry! Chennai worships its silver-screen Gods and trying to joke about them can put you in great trouble. If you can’t sing praises about Kollywood, better stay quiet!

8. Never, I repeat, NEVER act like a tourist at the religious places in Chennai! As a historical city, Chennai houses a long list of religiously significant places which are thronged by the worshippers as well as the admirers of beauty. Always remember that these are temples and museums where you could stand and loudly discuss about the architectural marvel. Do not disturb those who have come to pray!

9. Don’t expect to be served with liquor everywhere you step in! Chennai used to be a dry state post-independence and even though the ban has been lifted, liquor is only served at shops called TASMACS (Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation).

10. Don’t restrict yourself to the hotel room! Go out and explore the warmth of Chennai and its culture. Marvel the architectural beauty, relish the mouth-watering cuisine and feel the historical connect with much love and delight.

Five Most Interesting Romantic Getaways In India

Romance as we know is the prime essence of every love story! It creates magic between lovers and this magical force keeps them close all through their lives! As much as it is good to be understanding about each other’s personal space, it is equally important to spend some alone time together, far away from the rest of the world! Every second of the quality time spent together weaves a stronger web of love which eventually strengthens the hearty-connect. Whether you are newly-weds or long past lovers or even an aged couple, a vacation together is absolutely a must for all!

India is a country of plentiful exquisite locations that make for some of the most romantic getaways one could ever think of. All you need to do is to choose a preferable location and then simply watch the magical aura doing wonders for you! To make it more convenient, today we will tell you about some of the most interesting romantic getaways that you could choose from to rekindle that spark in your relationship. Here we Begin:

1. Agra

Imagine waking up to the stupendous view of the Taj every morning! This epitome of love will not only fill your hearts with love but will also strengthen your beliefs about true love. Visiting this enchanting monument with the love of your life is the perfect idea of a romantic getaway! The feeling of love reflected by Taj Mahal captivates every heart that witnesses its divine beauty!

2. Kerala

Serene and refreshing, the state of Kerala is a resplendent destination for love! A stay in the houseboats on the silent backwaters of the Allepey fringed with lush greenery makes for a divinely memorable experience. What better than spending some alone time with your partner floating on the water in the houseboats?

3. Ladakh

Shimla, Mussoorie, Nainital etc are the choices of the past, its time to opt for something totally different now! If mountains are what you want see, why not see them in their fullest beauty? Ladakh is the most picturesque destination one can ever be at. The amazingly scenic landscapes of this place will make you fall in love all over again!

4. Udaipur

Every girl dreams of a marrying a price who would embellish her with all the royalties of the world! Visiting this lavishly beautiful city of lakes can fulfil this dream to some extent. Udaipur offers a good range of luxurious palaces and heritage hotels with hospitalities that will make you feel like the king and the queen! Love makes you feel special; so does this spectacular city!

5. Havelock Island

Elope with your partner to an isolated island where the two of you get to spend some of the most special moments of your life! And for that, nothing could beat the pristine aura of this island of Andaman. Beach-side romance has an all-together different feeling that stays as a memory throughout the life! Cherish each and every moment at this heavenly delight amidst the glistening silver sand and turquoise blue water of the sea!

Rani ki Vav

Rani ki vav, Patan, India

Rani ki vav is a famous stepwell situated in Patan town in Gujarat in India. It was included in the list of UNESCO's World Heritage Site on 22 June 2014.

Patan was called as Anhilpur Patan when King Siddharja Jaysingh was ruling & it was the capital of Gujarat. Mr. Vanraja Chavda has founded Patan. During the period of the Solanki or Chalukya, the stepwell called the Rani ki vav, orRan-ki vav (Queen’s step well) was constructed. It is a richly sculptured monument.

Rani Ki Vav, view from the top

Patan was called as Anhilpur Patan when King Siddharja Jaysingh was ruling & it was the capital of Gujarat. Mr. Vanraja Chavda has founded Patan. During the period of the Solanki or Chalukya, the stepwell called the Rani ki vav, orRan-ki vav (Queen’s step well) was constructed. It is a richly sculptured monument.

The Rani ki Vav is the 7 storey underground structure, which is finely carved and full with amazing sculpture. After the complete construction of Rani ki Vav , it was completely flooded by Saraswati River. Later on in 1980, it found by the Archeological Survey of India with loads of wonderful sculpture and carving. Due to the excellent sculpture of Rani ki Vav, it was novelized by the archaeological department of Gujarat. The Rani ki Vav is spread in a large area. The length of Rani ki Vav is 64 meter, width is 20 meters and 27 meters deep.

Step wells are a different form of underground water storage and resource systems on the Indian subcontinent, and have been framed since the 3rd millennium BC. They evolved over time from what was basically a pit in sandy soil towards elaborate multi-storey works of art and architecture.

Steps lead down through multiple levels with lines of carved pillars and over 800 sculptures, mostly on Vishnu-avatar themes. Each pillar and each wall are very beautifully carved and sculptured.

Rani-ki-vav is a highly decorated monument with carved panels of sculptures and reliefs representing the height of Maru-Gurjara style of architecture. Most of the sculptures are based on the Dashavatar,which are the incarnations of Lord Vishnu with heart snatching sculpture of Narasimha,Varaha, Rama and Kalki.The major highlight is the scrumptious statue of Mahishasur-Mardini . Apsaras – the angelic beauties showcasing Solah Singar,which are the16 unique styles of makeup is another highlight. Near the water level, you come to a beautiful carving of Sheshashayi Vishnu, in which the lord Vishnu leaned on the thousand-hooded serpent Shesha.

Rani-ki-Vav was made at the wonderful imagination of craftsmen’s art in stepwell construction and it totally based on the Maru-Gurjara architectural style, each and every design of Rani –ki –Vav showing the mastery of this complex technique and great beauty of detail and proportions.

It is designed as a reversed temple mainly concerned about the sanctity of water, it is split into seven levels of stairs with carved panels of high artistic quality; more than 500 main sculptures and over a thousand minor ones combine religious, secular imagery and mythological, often referencing religious literary works.

It is one of the best archeological jewel of India and it is the pride of Gujarat.

50 Things To Do In India!

A country of cultural montage, India symbolizes the unification of diverse colors of religions and traditions. The peaceful coexistence of distinct cultures consolidates the feeling of nationalism in every heart. Such is the magnificence of our country that anyone who steps on this land cannot resist being mesmerized by its mystical charm. India has something for everybody! Some people are fascinated by historical richness, some by its culinary delights, some by its unique topography and some by the warm hospitality of its people. Reasons may be different but the feelings are mutual- sheer love for India! With its infinite offerings, there is no dearth of things to be tried out in India! But of course, there are certain things which are absolutely a must for all the visitors. These are the things which bring out the real face of India, thereby bringing the visitors much closer to the Indian essence! So today, I am going out to write about 50 things that everybody, be it a tourist or a denizen, should definitely try out for at least once!

1. Begin the journey by visiting the most beautiful architectural wonder of the world- Taj Mahal!

2. Take a dip in the River Ganga at Haridwar.

3. Stay in a Shikara at the Dal Lake in Kashmir.

4. Experience the colorful beauty of Holi at the holy land of Vrindavan.

5. Gratify your taste buds at a Punjabi Dhaba on the highways.

6. Play cricket in a park or on the streets.

7. Attend Durga Puja Festival in Kolkata.

8. Shop at the crowded bazaar of Chandni Chowk in Delhi.

9. Visit the Golden Temple in Amritsar.

10. Party at the beachside in Goa!

11. Fly kites at the Grand Kite Festival in Ahmedabad.

12. Rejuvenate yourself with a relaxing massage in Kerala.

13. Feel the royalties of the Rajputana Culture at Jaipur.

14. Try out trekking over the frozen Zanskar River in Ladakh.

15. Attend the Republic Day celebrations at the India Gate.

16. Watch the Pahalwans getting down and dirty at the Indian wrestling ground called Akhara.

17. Take a biking trip to the mountains with friends.

18. Get enlightened at Bodh Gaya- one of the most important Buddhist Site.

19. Go for a camping trip and enjoy river rafting at Rishikesh.

20. Attend the Ganesh Visarjan Festival in Maharashtra.

21. Delve in the natural beauties of the North-east.

22. Reach up to the southern tip of India, Kanyakumari.

23. Attend the iconic Kumbh Mela.

24. Visit as many historical architectures as possible.

25. Take a joy-ride in the toy train at Darjeeling.

26. Try spotting a White Tiger at the Sunderbans.

27. Travel in a Mumbai Local to feel the rush of life.

28. Fill in your mouth with the mouth-watering Gol-Gappas on the streets.

29. Attend an Indian Wedding, especially of a Punjabi Family.

30. Ride a Camel in the deserts of Rajasthan.

31. Stay in a heritage hotel to feel like a king!

32. Experience divinity at the Haji Ali Dargah in Mumbai.

33. Visit Bhangarh, for a stunning encounter with the ghosts!

34. Enjoy a romantic stay at the house-boats in Kerala.

35. Apply Mehendi/Henna on your hands.

36. Dress up in pure Indian attire.

37. Visit the Kaala Pani Jail/Cellular Jail in Port Blair.

38. Experience the night life of Delhi.

39. Watch the Border Ceremony at the Wagah Border.

40. Watch a cricket match live at the stadiums.

41. Dance and groove like a star in the Monsoon Rains.

42. Experience the rural rustics at a village in the outskirts.

43. Play Kabaddi!

44. Watch women starve for a whole day for their husbands on Karvachauth.

45. Learn an Indian Dance form.

46. Be a part of the Navratri Festival in Gujarat.

47. Taste the maximum variety of Mangoes available in India.

48. Get to know the original Snake Charmers of the country in Gujarat.

49. Stuff your mouth with Laddoos and several other sweets available only in India.

50. Watch DDLJ, still running successfully at the Marath Mandir theatre in Mumbai!

Heavy Load

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Amrish Puri

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Bharatanatyam

Sadir, Chinnamelan and Dasi Attam or Daasiyattam are the original names of the classical Indian dance form Bharatanatyam that is said to be originated in the temples of Thanjavoor, Tamil Nadu performed by Devdasis. Devdasis were the women who dedicated their entire life to God and used to pay their obeisance through dance. With time Rajanartakis started performing Bharatanatyam at the royal courts. Present form of the dance has been recreated from Sadir. Lord Shiva is the God of Bharatanatyam.

Name Bharatanatyam has originated from three fundamental concepts i.e. Bhava (expressions), Raga (melody) and Tala (rhythm). Literally Bharat Natyam means the dance of Bharata (India).

Historical Background

Natya Shastra, the oldest dissertation on dance written around 500 BC to 500 AD contains the details of various old dance forms. According to this treatise Bharatnatyam is one of the oldest dance forms in the world and expected to be originated in the 2nd century B.C. Devdasis who were the young beautiful girls married to God and devoted their entire life to God used to perform Bharatanatyam to worship him. They also used to perform it as a sacred dance during temple ceremonies. Devdasis were very influential figures and no temple ceremony used to take place without them and their performance.

Then came a change in the hereditary of Bharatnatyam and temple support. Modification in these moved Bharatnatyam from temples to courts. It became a source of entertainment rather than worshipping. Further downfall has been noticed in the dance as well as dancing girls with British rule.

To stop further degradation and downfall some dance enthusiasts started preserving the oldest art form of India. Many families of devdasis and dance teachers preserved it and made it a family tradition.

With collective efforts, Bharatanatyam has regained its lost glory and now it has moved to stage as a highly specialized classical dance form.

Aspects of Bharatanatyam

Nritta – Dance based on music in which the dancer interprets the rhythm. Dance is executed by forming geometrical patterns in space. Viewers get easily connected as no technical background is required to understand this dance. It is the most popular form of Bharatanatayam.

Natya – Dancer dances to bring out the meaning of a poem. Movements, expressions and gestures of dancer dance out the meaning and everything looks like a part of the story. Sometimes a solo dancer impersonate up to 3-4 characters.

Nritya –Nritta and Natya are combined to give a balanced Nritya in Bharatanatyam. Dancer needs to be very cautious while performing Nritya.

Famous Bharatanatyam dancers in India

Rukmini Devi

She brought an immense change in Bharatanatyam by correcting the theory of dance and music, artistically designing the dance costumes, picking up antique jewelry and ornaments and accentuating the spiritual aspect of the dance.            .

She was born on 28th February 1904 in Madurai to a family associated with saint Tyagaraja. She got married to Dr. George Arundale in 1920. She traveled to Europe with her husband and gave lectures on Indian culture. Rukmini Devi even learned Russian Ballets from a renowned Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova who asked her to learn Indian Classical dance. After coming back to India she learned classical dance from Pandanallur Meenakshi Sundaram pillai, Gauri amma and Muthukumar.

Mrinalini Sarabhai

She received her education in Switzerland and took Bharatanatyam training from Muthukumar Pillai and studied under Meenakshi Sundaram Pillai, Chokalingam Pillai and Ellapa Pillai in India. She got married to Dr Vikram Sarabhai. Sarabhai established a dance academy named ‘Darpana’to teach Bharatanatyam and other art forms.

Dr. Padma Subramanyam

She is one of the most reputed Bharatanatyam dancers in India. She is also a music composer, choreographer, singer, teacher, research scholar and author. Subramanyam was born on 4th February, 1943 in Chennai. Her father K. Subramanyam started dance school ‘Nrutyodaya’ in 1942 and Dr Padma is now a director of this dance school. She started her training under Kausalya and then trained by Guru Vazhuvoor Ramaiah Pillai. She gave her first public performance ‘Arangetram’ in 1956. She introduced ‘Pushpanjali’ a dance piece as a dancer.

Alarmel Valli

She is the leading promoter of Pandanallur tradition in Bharatanatyam. She is the youngest dancer to received Padma Shri award. Valli was born in 1957 and received a formal training from guru Shri Chokkalingam Pillai and his son Shri Subbaraya Pillai. She has been doing research work for the past 12 years on classical Tamil anthologies of Sangam poetry.

Anita Ratnam

She is one of the most popular Bharatanatyam dancers in India who is also trained in Mohiniattam and Kathakali. She received training from Adyar K. Lakshmanan and then joined Rukmini Devi Arundale’s ‘Kalakshetra’ for a Postgraduate diploma in Dance.

Yamini Krishnamurthy, Mallika Sarabhai, Balasarswati, Meenakshi Sundaram Pillai are few more names in the list of eminent Bharatanatyam dancers in India.

Tawang Monastery

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Kerala

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Padharo Mhare Des

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Padmanabhapuram Palace

Padmanabhapuram Palace

Padmanabhapuram Palace is a miraculous 16 Century wood palace of former Maharajas of Travancore (1550 to 1750).It is located in the Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu, India. Padmanabhapuram was the old capital of former Travancore state. It is administrated by the Kerala. Padmanabhapuram is a wonderful example of craftsmanship of wood. It is the largest, oldest and well maintained ancient example of traditional wooden architecture .This palace is a real fusion of wonderful craftsmanship, archaeology and high level example of material science.

Craftswork In Padmanabhapuram

Carvings On Padmanabhapuram

The Clock Tower of the Padmanabhapuram Palace

Kuthira Vilakku (Metal Lamp)

Temple Entrance In Padmanabhapuram Palace

Black Polished Floor In Padmanabhapuram Palace

Structures

The Padmanabhapuram Palace complex consists of several structures:

• Mantrasala; the King's Council Chamber
• Thai Kottaram; the Queen Mother's Palace, constructed before 1550
• Nataksala; the Performance Hall
• A four-storeyed mansion at the centre of the complex
• Thekee Kottaram; the Southern Palace

Council Chamber

Mantrasala (Council chamber)

King’s Council chamber is the most beautiful part of the entire palace complex. It has windows, with coloured mica, which keep the heat and the dust away, and the interior of the council chamber remains cool and dark. Delicate and beautiful lattice work can be seen all over the council chamber.

The floor is also beautifully done, with a fine and perfect finish. The floor is dark and is made of a mixture of varied substances, including burnt coconut shells, egg white and so on. The remarkable aspect is that this particular floor finish and texture could not be duplicated in any other construction.

Queen Mother's Palace

Mother’s palace, designed in traditional Kerala style, is the oldest construction in the entire palace complex and is believed to be constructed around mid-16th century. True to the traditional Kerala style, there is an inner courtyard, called 'nalukettu'. In the inner courtyard, sloping roofs from all four sided taper down. Four pillars on four corners support the roof.

On the south-west corner of the mother’s palace, there is a relatively small room, called the chamber of solitude or 'ekantha mandapam'. The chamber of solitude has very beautiful and intricate wood carvings of every description all around. Of particular interest is a pillar of single jackfruit wood, with very detailed and beautiful floral designs.

Performance Hall

Natakshala

This is a relatively new building, constructed at the behest of Maharaja Swathi Thirunal, who reigned in Travancore from 1829 to 1846. He was a great connoisseur of arts, especially music and dance. He himself composed music and has left a rich legacy to classical carnatic music.

The Nataksala or the hall of performance has solid granite pillars and gleaming black floor. There is a wooden enclosure, with peepholes, where the women of the royal household used to sit and watch the performance.

Central mansion

The four-storied building is located at the centre of the palace complex. The ground floor houses the royal treasury. The first floor houses the King's bedrooms. The ornamental bedstead is made of 64 types of herbal and medicinal woods, and was a gift from the Dutch merchants. Most of the rooms here and in other parts of the palace complex have built-in recesses in walls for storing weapons like swords and daggers. The second floor houses the King's resting and study rooms. Here the King used to spend time during fasting days. The top floor (called upparikka malika) served as the worship chamber of the royal household. Its walls are covered with exquisite 18th century murals, depicting scenes from the puranas, and also few scenes from the social life of the Travancore of that time. Ths top floor was supposed to be Sree Padmanabha Swamy's room. This building was constructed during the reign of King Marthandavarma. He was also designated as Padmanabha Dasa and used to rule the Travancore kingdom as a servant of Sree Padmanabha Swamy.

Southern Palace

The southern palace is as old as the ‘Thai kottaram’ (Mother's palace), which would make it about 400 year old. Now, it serves as a heritage museum, exhibiting antique household articles and curios. Collections of items give an insight into the social and cultural ethos of that period.