Hindustan ka dil dekho : Madhya Pradesh's blog

Foggy MP !

2012-01-21T17:46:00.000+05:30

Late winter breeze in the State of Madhya Pradesh has brought in fog cover in mornings, in its many parts. Have a look at few pictures from highway running from Jabalpur to Mandla. Trees are on the valley but on cannot see anything beyond due to fog cover.

Heliodorous Pillar, Vidisha

2011-12-30T08:48:00.002+05:30

A monolithic free standing column, the pillar bears an inscription which states that it was garuda pillar raised in honour of vasudeva by heliodorous a resident of Taxila who had been sent to the court of Bhagabhadra as an envoy of Indo Bectrian monarch, Antialkidas.

This inscription is particularly valuable historical record revealing both the relations that existed between the region and greek kingdoms of Punjab and that Greek had become follower of Hindu God Vishnu. The inscription of the name Antialkidas dates approximated errection of the pillar to 140 BC. The pillar with its bell capital carrying figure super structure resembles Ashok Pillar but is much smaller in size with more slender proportions. The power portion of the shaft is octagonal, the upper, sixteen sided with panel of thirty two facets. The carvings have Buddhist motifs such as border with geese in pairs as well as Hellenic ones such as honey suckle and the bead molding.

Tropic of Cancer at Vidisha

2011-11-06T16:44:00.000+05:30

Shahrukh Khan in Bhopal

2011-10-14T20:10:00.001+05:30

Shahrukh Khan was in Bhopal yesterday to promote Ra One. He was greeted by thousands of his fan in the city at DB mall, where he performed on his songs from Ra-one. Have a look at some of the pictures of his visit ...

Pictures courtesy : A.M. Faruqui

Baby Hippopotamus at Indore

2011-09-01T10:51:00.000+05:30

A Baby calf was born yesterday to Hippopotamus named Nanda at Indore's Kamla Nehru Zoo.

Have a look at Nanda and her calf.

Ganpathi festival in MP

2011-08-28T19:46:00.002+05:30

Madhya Pradesh also marks Ganesh Chaturthi in style which falls on September 1, 2011. The festival begins with the installation of elaborately crafted statutes of Ganesha in homes, community places, specially constructed and beautifully decorated podiums. You will find people taking idols from markets in tempo’s with dance and music. Artisans put months of effort into making the statues. It is celebrated for one to 11 days with the immersion of the idols taking place on the last day called Ananta Chaturdasi day. Pics are from Bhopal and Gwalior, wherein Ganpathi idols are getting ready and are on sale in Gwalior.

Idols at Gwalior

Idols at Bhopal

Idols at Gwalior

Some glimpses of Gwalior

2011-08-27T10:06:00.001+05:30

Normally in tourism circuits Gwalior is known for fort, but as this blogs tries to brings out something different ! so here are glimpses of Gwalior ......normally one will not see in the tourism brochures !!

Tigara Dam

Gol Padhi on the way to Tigara

Glimpse from Tigara

As we drove through the heart of India

2011-08-06T17:27:00.002+05:30

LAST MONDAY, I was on road travelling from Jabalpur to Mandla. The distance is about 100 kilometers and normally takes about three hours on national highway number 12, which connects Jabalpur to Kanha National Park. Though it was an official hectic trip, the untampered with natural surrounding added a soothing touch to our nerves. The weather was clear and sunny after two days of consistent rains, probably for us to admire the beautiful environment. One could see an early morning sun trying to fit into the gaps between teak trees, with cover of clouds on the curves of the hillocks.

We stopped our cars on a curve, to treat our eyes and tickle our senses. Sound of water fall, chirping of birds, flutter of emigrant and lime butterflies moving over the shrubs and enjoying the sunshine, and rain droppings on leaves of trees around us added to that comforting touch. We were on a hillock and could see kids playing in water flowing down the hillock; it was fun to see them enjoy the nature. Also, there were women with ‘lumps of mud’, trying to direct water in a particular direction to avoid flooding of the fields.

The straight road, which followed the hillocks crossed over meadows and looked majestic with sun shining over it. We wanted the time to stop for a while so that we could enjoy the beauty of nature, but we had a busy day ahead of us, so there ended our communion with nature.

Later in the day, we got an opportunity to pay respect and admire the beauty of Holy Narmada river- the life line of Madhya Pradesh, at Ghats in the Mandla district. It was one memorable experience the memories of which will stay with us for a lifetime. - Anil Gulati

Bir Singh Palace, Datia

2011-08-06T03:54:00.000+05:30

Datia, an ancient town, which is mentioned in the mahabharata as Daityavakra. At present it is a district of Madhya Pradesh, about 70 kms from Gwalior and about 35 kms from Jhansi. The district has Bir Singh Palace, which is a seven storied dome complex made up of stones and bricks. It is deserted plaace but has a beauty and history to it. It is like a diadem on a hillock. This architectural entity is visible from a distance (one can even site it from Delhi - Bhopal Shatabadi train when it cross Datia). An interesting palace has arches, chattris, ornamental jaali screens, balconies, oriel windows and murals adorn its inside walls.

View from the train in Hoshangabad

2011-08-03T04:29:00.000+05:30

View from train journey as it droves closely from hillocks in Hoshangabad district of Madhya Pradesh

Narmada at Dhuandhar, Jabalpur

2011-08-03T04:24:00.000+05:30

Waterfall is located 25 km from Jabalpur on the Narmada river.Dhuandhar Falls or the smoke cascade is a beautiful waterfall in Bhedaghat. Now of days it is raining so water levels have risen and flow of water have broken the structure wherein one could watch the water fall. The pictures have been taken from rope way on the falls. (pixs @ anil gulati)

World Heritage Day Special - Profiling Narsinghgarh fort

2011-04-17T10:47:00.001+05:30

Narsinghgarh fort - A majestic fort privately held is in the Rajgarh district of the State of Madhya Pradesh. It is two kilometers from main Bhopal - Guna highway, and approximately 83 kilometers from Bhopal.The two kilometer road which is inside from main highway is on uphill and is made of mud and sand. Approach road to fort is steep, difficult to drive and non motorable.

The fort is said to be built nearly 300 years ago and is constructed in Mughal & Malwa style of architecture. It is said to be third in size after Gwalior and Mandu fort in Madhya Pradesh. It has approximate 350 rooms, 4 halls and 64 varandahs. It is situated in a hill overlooking lake and a temple. Though at present it is in depilated condition with its roofs, and walls needing repair and walls have been spoiled by visitors to the fort who have written all kinds of messages and paintings on its walls. But a site to visit especially during rains and winters.

Tamia...wow !

2011-02-19T13:23:00.002+05:30

Tamia's steep hills, dense forests, and the valley make it a beauty spot and 'must visit' place in Madhya Pradesh. Tamia is located in Chhindwara district of MP, located on the South-West region of 'Satpura Range'. Chhindwara district has an area of 11,815 sq. km occuping 3.85% of the area of the state and is one of the largest district of the State. First picture is of sunset view is taken from forest rest house and shows a hill peak, in the Satpura range.

Betul's Ghost fair !

2011-02-17T01:05:00.000+05:30

A village in Betul district of Madhya Pradesh, holds an annual fair of Ghosts. This is month long fair nromally around january -Feburary. People gather here in numbers for being exorcised at a shrine of Guru Maharaj Deoji, a Hindu holy man who lived in the 18th century and, devotees believe, had the power to exorcise ghosts and evil spirits. No one knows how all this began but they say “Deoji passed on the ‘art of exorcism’ to his successors (the priests here). It peaks as the night of Paush Purnima (full moon preceding Magh month) falls, the ‘possessed’ are taken to the shrine for being exorcised. The people who bring their relatives here feel that their bodies have been “taken over by the ghosts of the dead” and that exorcism is the only release for them.

During the fair one can hear sound of temple gong, ghost busters chant mantras and priest here say that they have been able to expell thousands of ghosts and evil spirits from human bodies. Though people who advocate on scientific reasoning do not agree with it and reason that this propogates myths and supersitions.

गरीबी का चेहरा

2011-02-01T23:42:00.001+05:30

कोई साठ- बासठ बरस
पहले लगा था

कि दूर होगी गरीबी !

चेहरों पर होगी रौनक
आएगी खुशहाली

लेकिन इन साठ-बासठ बरसों में
सिर्फ चंद बोर्ड ही पहुंच पाए
हम तक

दूर तलक बस उदासी है
देखो ऐसा ही होता है

गरीबी का चेहरा।

- राकेश मालवीय, सतना से लोटकर

(छाया ओर कविता)

Hoarding on Gwalior roads !

2010-12-23T09:24:00.000+05:30

Hoarding as seen on Gwalior city road !

Ruins of Parmar-era found at Samasgarh !

2010-12-17T16:42:00.000+05:30

Samasgarh near Bhopal near ratibad was known for old Jain temple but will now known for Statues and ruins of Parmar era temple which had been recently found there. It is first time that so many remains of Parmar Era have been found near capital. Inspite of the media hype they still lie unprotected and unmarked. If one has to go to the site one has to depend on the local people who only know that some statues which were recently in newspaper have been found in their village.

Ruins one dozen temples have been located, in which symbols of Shiva temples, Vishnu temples and other temples could be identified at the location near the old Jain temple. The ruins suggest that these temples would be of the Parmara-era that may have been destroyed by some reason. Historians believe that areas around the State capital were ruled by the Parmara King Bhoj and these ruins would definitely have been under his protection. Apart from Hindu, temples, ruins of Jain temples could also be easily identified. There are two old water ponds/ well near the site.

26 years but people still suffer !

2010-12-02T22:35:00.000+05:30

Survivors of the 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy and victims of the resultant water contamination staged a torchlight march today to mark 26th anniversary of one of the world's worst industrial disaster. The victims walked from Bhopal Talkies to the Union Carbide India's old killer factory at Bhopal. The marchers demanded legal action against the Bhopal factory's parent company Union Carbide Corporation (UCC), its former chairman Warren Anderson and UCC's Hong Kong subsidiary. The march was organised by five Bhopal-based organisations and at end of the rally marchers, including a large number of children, gathered around a statue in front of the abandoned factory to pay homage to the victims. (pic courtesy - A M Faruqui)

The Invincible - Gwalior fort

2010-10-10T19:57:00.000+05:30

As per ASI site, the history of the Fort goes back to the fifth century AD or perhaps still earlier. The old name of the hill as recorded in ancient Sanskrit inscriptions is Gopagiri. It has witnessed varying fortunes of the Guptas, Hunas, the Pratiharas, the Kachhwahas, the Tomars, the Pathans, the Mughals, the English and the Marathas who have left their landmarks in the various monuments which are still preserved. The main monuments which are in the premises of this fort are :- Man Mandir, Teli-Ka-Mandir, Sas Bhau Temple, Badal Mahal, Alamgiri gate, Ganesa gate, Chaturbhuj gate, Rock-cut Jain collosi, Urwai gate, etc.

Indiaknow site states that for over 100 years this fort has been over looking the city of Gwalior. One of the most invincible forts in India, this imposing citadel has changed many hands. It is built on a hill of sandstone and towers 100 meters from the plain.The outer wall of the fort is almost 2 miles in length and the width varies from one km's to 200 meters. The walls of the fort gives way onto the steep slopes. This fort has been a witness to many battles in the turbulent times as well as festivals in the peace time.

Ecosystem at Bhilkheria needs to be preserved

2010-10-04T05:04:00.000+05:30

It was fascinating following yellow pansy butterfly on the small mud and sand paved way at Bhilkheria village, outskirts of Bhopal towards Raisen. The board on the main road said that there is an eco tourism spot about 2 kilometer away, something which pulled my car onto that way while I was driving onto Raisen. Though after driving 2 kilometers one reached closed gate, am not sure where they were leading to. One could hardly spot a soul who could tell or guide me how we can enter the so called eco tourism spot.

Yellow Pansy butterfly

Bird at Bhilkheria

Orange Tip butterfly on flower

Eco tourism board on main road calling on people to visit the spot

But nevertheless I enjoyed the drive and the place as it had plethora of fauna. One could site nymphalids butterflies like yellow pansy, lemon pansy, grey pansy, blue pansy, chocolate pansy and others like danidfly, common crow, orange tip, common grass yellow, common castor, lime butterfly and common emigrant. Interesting was to see common grass yellow and ‘silver forget me not’ (butterflies) puddling over mud as one moves on to the spot. The place has many farm lands as we move on and one the way to closed eco tourism spot, one is greeted by red vented bulbuls, squirrels and common emigrant butterflies.

The place has not only butterflies, but one could site many birds, dragon flies, as it had water bodies and lot of flora around. Though water bodies around the area are getting polluted but nevertheless harbors many varieties of odonates. The spot is endowed with diversity of flora, fauna, is picturesque and touchwood Bhopal builders still have not reached till their, though they are very near. The place has an eco system which needs to be preserved, whether or not it is developed into eco tourism spot. Seeing what happened to Kerwa, a eco tourism spot in Bhopal am not an advocate for eco tourism spot, as being developed, but want eco system at Bhilkheri to be preserved.

Bhimkund, Chhattarpur district

2010-09-23T05:03:00.000+05:30

Bhimkund is located in Chhattarpur district of Madhya Pradesh.According to the local legend it is that when Pandavas were in their exile they felt thirsty 'Bhim' smashed his mace against the land and found this water body. The water is indigo blue and clear. Depth is unknown and apparently there are strong under currents. It has been filmed by Discovery Channel too. During Tsunami the 'locals' say the height of the water rose by 15feet, though still much is to be known.

View from the below

(Text and pictures contributed by Umasree Polepeddi)

Weaver Nest

2010-09-08T06:04:00.000+05:30

Baya Weaver nest at Vidisha - Baya Weavers (Ploceus philippinus) build their nests attached to branches of trees. The nests are expertly weaved from long thin strands of leaf blades and the completed nest looks like an upside down flask with a downward pointing entrance chute. Within the swollen portion is the nesting area. Interestingly they say that Male baya weaver builds the nest up to the helmet stage by collecting materials and weaving the pieces together. He then gets his mate to approve the structure. Only then will the bulbous egg-chamber and the long pendulous entrance tube be completed. This final stage of building sees both adults participating.!!

Halali Dam, Vidisha & Raisen

2010-08-23T19:04:00.000+05:30

As per book, Hydrological and water resources of India by Sharad K Jain, Pusphpendra K Agarwal and Vijay P Singh Halali dam is a rolled filled earthen dam located both in Vidisha and Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh. It is constructed across Halali river a tributary of Betwa river. Halali dam is known as Samrat Ashok Sagar Project. It is 945 m long with maximum height of 29.57 m above the foundation level. Catchment area of the project is 699 sq. km of which is 25 % is hily, rest is plains.

It is about 47 kilometers from Bhopal’s New market and towards Sanchi. The stretch of 30 kilometer is nice as it is Sanchi road but when one turns left for last 8 kilometers, it is difficult non motorable road which will take you about an hour. In rainy season the last stretch can get difficult.

The dam has a MP tourism hotel which has about 3 – 4 rooms, nice ambience, play ground for children. They say it has it has water sports, which am not sure as no one was their. Hotel charges Rs 10 as an entry fee per person ! (interesting). But the major problem is electricity - it did not had electricity for last 3 days !!. For the best view of the dam do see it from the road on the dam then the Hotel.

Environmental issues with Halali reservoir

As per environmental research journals edition of June 2006 a paper on Study of heavy metal contamination in Halali Dam water of Vidisha district near Bhopal (M.P.) India with reference to human health by S.A. Iqbal and H.C. Kataria¹ talks of most common and widespread danger, associated with Halali Dam water is contamintaion of heavy metal by sewage and other organic matters or excrements. Water of Halali reservoir is used for drinking as well as irrigational purpose, its water is polluted by man made activities e.g. sewage disposal industrial and natural contaminant mixes into water heavy metals.

Sailing pics

2010-08-21T17:11:00.000+05:30

Bhopal, Saturday Aug 21, 2010

Inland National Sailing Championship at Bhopal

2010-08-20T21:52:00.001+05:30

Inland National Sailing Championship is being held at Bhopal in which 21 boats are taking part. 10 races are being held under the championship. (Image courtesy : A.M. Faruqui)

Jewelled winged wonders (World environment day special)

2010-06-04T20:05:00.002+05:30

This is photograph of Green Marsh Hawk dragonfly I had clicked at Shivpuri Tourist Village in District Shivpuri. This is also called slender Skimmer or Orthetrum Sabina. It belongs to family Libellulidae (skimmer) and is common dragonfly of gardens and fields. This dragonfly sits motionless on shrubs and dry wigs for a long time. It hunts flying insects such as flies, small butterflies and dragonflies. This World Environment Day I wanted to dedicate it to these jewelled winged wonders, hence this picture and here is more information on them.

Environment and Dragonflies

Dragonflies and damselflies are amongst the most attractive of creatures on earth, the first to have conquered the aerial domain. They collectively are called odonates, and are one of the most common insects flying over forest, fields, meadows, ponds and rivers. India is highly diverse with more than 500 known species. Odonata are one of the ancient orders of insects. It first appeared during the about 250 million years ago.

Odonates are primarily aquatic insects hence makes them a good indicator of wetland health. Madhya Pradesh wetlands support a rich odonate fauna. Odonates are integral part of wetland ecosystems and are reliable indicators of its health and important biocontrol agent of these harmful insects. In the urban areas of Thailand, larvae of the container breeding dragonfly, Granite ghost (Bradinopyga geminata) was successfully used to control Aedes mosquito, an important vector of the dengue and Chikungunya fever.

Red Shank at Guna

2010-05-07T22:03:00.000+05:30

The redshank is a medium-sized wading bird with a longish red legs & long straight bill. It is grey-brown above and whitish below. In flight, it shows white rear edges to the wings and a white 'V-shape' up its back.

Teli Ka Mandir

2010-05-02T01:22:00.000+05:30

It is 9th centre edifice and an architectural splendor in the premises of Gwalior Fort. An amalgam of temples of north and south India and it is the tallest and most impressive temple in the fort with the height of about 100 feet. Figures of river goddesses, amorous couples, coiled serpents, and a flying Garuda are abound in the temple complex (pic- anil)

25.06 lakh tonne wheat procured from MP

2010-04-21T21:37:00.001+05:30

Government agencies have procured 152.55 lakh tonne wheat during the current rabi marketing season so far against the arrival of 163.67 lakh tonne wheat in the mandis in major wheat growing States. As per the data received from the Department of Food and Public Distribution, it represents an increase of 13.61 lakh tonne over the procurement on 20th April last year. Wheat procurement was to the tune of 138.93 lakh tonne wheat was purchased on this date in the last marketing season. With 75.16 lakh tonne, Punjab is the largest contributor followed by Haryana, 53.15 lakh tonne, Madhya Pradesh, 25.06 lakh tonne, Uttar Pradesh, 4.2 lakh tonne, Rajasthan, 3.34 lakh tonne and Gujarat, 1.9 lakh tonne.

Gwalior newspapers readers to get more choices

2010-04-17T21:41:00.000+05:30

Newspaper ad-boards outside railway station of Gwalior

Newspapers readers of Gwalior have more choices and city will get more written in media. April 15, 2010 Gwalior saw launch of one more Hindi newspaper Patrika. Gwalior Edition of Patrika, Rajasthan Patrika group of newspaper was officially launched. The launch has heated up media scene in Gwalior which is primarily hindi news market. Patrika already has edition in Bhopal. Indore, Jabalpur and now in Gwalior, another major city of MP. Prior to the launch Gwalior saw some intensive outdoor campaign by Patrika. One saw hoardings of Patrika, auto’s with Patrika’s flex behind the auto and ‘no parking boards’ outside houses in the colonies of Gwalior. Dainik Bhaskar the leading daily of MP also used outdoor campaign in the city to increase its visibility. Nai Dunia another leading daily in Gwalior has brought in ‘Nayika Awards’ in Gwalior. ‘Nayika awards’ are recognition to women of the city in various categories like politics, social work, sports etc. Votes of people select those who get recognition. It was a hit in Indore , where it just had its second year announcements and did well in Bhopal in its first year. Gwalior media scene will be getting more interesting as hopefully by July they will have another newspaper named as Parivar Today which is being brought by Parivar Dairy Group. Gwalior's has about 15 dailies including Dainik Bhaskar, Raj Express, Nai Dunia, Swadesh, People's Samachar, Dainik Jagran, Navbharat etc, few evening newspapers and now Patrika.

Yeh Titlyian bhopal ki !

2010-04-11T22:47:00.000+05:30

I am hungry !

2010-04-02T16:43:00.002+05:30

Village Dev Guradia, Nemawar Road, Indore District

Elephant goes in for wheat from a vehicle standing nearby at a crossing. He tried again but failed !

Images courtesy - Janak Palta - 'Barli didi'

World's tallest Kadam tree at Shivpuri

2010-03-27T17:31:00.000+05:30

Neolamarckia cadamba, commonly called Kadam is an evergreen, tropical tree. Though grown as an ornamental, and for low-grade timber and paper. There exist some traditional uses as a medicine. The caterpillars of the Commander (Limenitis procris), a brush-footed butterfly, utilize this species as a foodplant. The picture is from Shivpuri in the lawns of Scinida's Chattri. It is said it is the tallest one in the world.

George Castle, Shivpuri

2010-03-20T23:12:00.000+05:30

George castle at Madhav National Park, Shivpuri. It was built in 1911 by the Scindia ruler Jivaji Rao Scindia within the National Park at its highest point. It was built for an overnight halt for King George V of the United Kingdom so that he can shoot tiger. He was passing that way during his visit to India. It so happened that King could shoot a tiger on the way itself and did not stop at Madhav National Park.

But Castle remain and it gives you a view of park, Shivpuri and journey of water wherein it says that one can see three interlinked lakes in the forest terrain. This point is right next to the George Castle. The lakes are Jadhav Sagar, Sakhya Sagar and Madhav Sagar. Though I could only see one lake as other were dry.

Images from Bhagoria festival

2010-03-09T19:36:00.000+05:30

Images courtesy : Gagan Nayar

Bhagoria Haat Festival is organized in the district of West Nimar and Jhabua. Bhagoria Haat Festival has an agricultural significance attached to as it coincides with the end of harvesting. Many do relate it as a festival where young ones are allowed to choose their partners. Colour of haat has changed in the years gone by...

Bhimbetika Paintings

2010-02-19T15:05:00.003+05:30

The sprawling caves of Bhimbetka (2405’N and 76045’E) are located about 45 km northeast of Bhopal, the state capital of Madhya Pradesh. Situated along the Bhopal-Hoshangabad highway, these caves bear proximity to the Bhiyapura village in Raisen district. The northern fringes of the ancient Vindhyachal ranges are home to the extraordinary rock shelters and paintings, its awesome rocks fortifying the ancient treasure within. Ensconced amidst lush greenery in dense forests, and rocky terrain and craggy cliffs, with the lofty rocks guarding the ancient premises, the caves of Bhimbetka present a breathtaking view even from as far as Obaidullaganj, a small town in the vicinity of Bhimbetka.

Bhimbetka is a natural art gallery and an archaeological treasure. The rock paintings have numerous layers belonging to various epochs of time, ranging from the Upper Palaeolithic, Mesolithic Age to the protohistoric, early historic and medieval periods. The most ancient scenes here believed to be commonly belonging to the Mesolithic Age. These magnificent paintings can be seen even on the ceiling of the rock shelters located at daunting heights. The cover of the dense forest and vegetation protected these rocks painting from being lost to the vagaries of nature. Executed mainly in red and white, with the occasional use of green and yellow with themes taken from the everyday events of eons ago, the scenes usually depict hunting, dancing, horse and elephant riders, animal fights, honey collection, decoration of bodies, disguises, masks and different type of animals etc. It depicts the detail of social life during the long period of time, when man used to frequent these rock shelters.

Animals such as bison, tiger, rhinoceros, wild boar, elephants, monkeys, antelopes, lizards, peacocks etc. have been abundantly depicted in the rock shelters. Popular religious and ritual symbols also occur frequently. The colours used by the cave dwellers were prepared by combining manganese, hematite, soft red stone and wooden charcoal. Perhaps, animal fat and extracts of leaves were also used in the mixture.

The rock art of Bhimbetka has been classified into various groups on the basis of the style and subject. The superimposition of paintings shows that the same canvas was used by different people at different times. The drawings and paintings can be classified under seven different periods.(Text credit - ASI web site)

Mahal's of Islamnagar

2010-02-15T05:13:00.002+05:30

Islamnagar is a village known for the palace of Bhopal's Afghan rulers built by Dost Mohammed Khan. Gardens surround the palace and the pavilion. It is near Bhopal on Berasia Road. Formal gardens surround the palace and pavilion. Most important of the monuments at Islam nagar include Chaman Mahal, Rani Mahal and Gond Mahal. The palaces here depict an amalgamation of the Rajput, Mughal and Malwa styles of architecture

CHAMAN MAHAL

Sardar Dost Mohammad Khan built this palace in 1715 A.D. He was an Afghan soldier of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb and was the founder of Bhopal State. This palace is surrounded by an enclosure wall and has two entrances. A Sheesh Mahal with twelve doors is situated near the entrance. A Charbagh pattern garden in Mughal style is situated in the centre of this palace. Facing the garden is a red sandstone platform having a stone latticed screen around it. Arches decorated with floral motifs, pillared baradari, as well as rooms with open courtyard can be seen in front of it. Dost Mohammed Khan is said to have conducted his official business in the baradari. To the north a hammam is built in Mughal style. There is one dressing room in it. The main room can be approached through galleries, where water tanks are constructed on three sides. A copper plate is fixed at the base of one water tank beneath which a furnace is constructed for providing hot water. The second floor of the palace is flat roofed, which has two chhatris on either sides. The architecture of this palace is a mixed form of later Mughal, Rajput and Malwa styles. It has been built by using red sand stone, kakaiya bricks and lime. The style of the dome is particularly distinctive of the monuments of early Bhopal Rulers.

RANI MAHAL

This palace was constructed by Dost Mohammad khan in the year 1720 to serve as a residence of his queens. Shades of the Rajput, Mughal and the Malwa styles of architecture are evident here.

Nature's heart !

2010-02-14T09:11:00.001+05:30

On a valentine day ! A leaf on a plant in Kaliasoot area of Bhopal. Browm spots may be pointing out to pollution which this nature's heart is getting exposed to in Hindustan ka dil now a days !

Raisen fort

2010-02-11T19:01:00.001+05:30

One gets attracted to the sprawling Raisen fort as seen in picture from the highway. It is one kilometer from the main highway but road is un-motorable. To make it worse there are big stones in the lane towards the fort, which make sure that one cannot drive even if you want to try !. One has to then climb staircase which leads to this fort which includes temples, palaces, a large water reservoir and some 40 wells.

If one looks at the official web site of Raisen district, in 'places to see' on the site this fort even does not feature may be that that is the reason there is no focus on maintaining this fort, a fort which gave district its name !.

Sunrise as seen from Indore - Bhopal highway !

2010-02-08T22:52:00.000+05:30

Peacock in Kanha National Park

2010-02-07T05:32:00.001+05:30

Peacock in Kanha national park. Kanha,a national park and a Tiger Reserve is situated in the Mandla and Balaghat districts of Madhya Pradesh. It was was created on 1 June, 1955 by special law. Today it stretches over an area of 940 km² in the two districts and still has range of flora and fauna which it offers, and attracts lots of tourists during winters.

Khajuraho dance festival

2010-02-03T20:42:00.002+05:30

Pic courtesy A M Faruqui

February 1 - 7, 2010. The Festival of Dances is a unique celebration of the best of Indian classical dance, in a spectacular floodlit temple setting in Khajuraho, Central India.

India's talented dancers performing different styles of dance - Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, Odissi, Manipuri and many more perform here. It is a platform for dancers, the festival and is organised by the Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation. It draws audience of dance lovers from all over the world.

Lokrang at Bhopal

2010-01-26T22:18:00.002+05:30

25th year of Lokrang - Lokrang Samaroh is organized every year in the month of January in Bhopal started today. This five day festival is based on the rich tribal and folk tradition of India.

On Republic Day eve

2010-01-25T22:58:00.002+05:30

Raj Bhawan and Vidhan Sabha, Bhopal on the eve of Republic day (pic - Jan 25, 2009 night)

Solar eclipse from Bhopal

2010-01-15T22:18:00.000+05:30

Pictures of Longest Solar eclipse which had dazzled India, as seen from Bhopal.

Pictures courtesy A. M. Faruqui

Camels at Biaora

2010-01-10T09:05:00.001+05:30

Camels enjoying themselves while camle breeders look on. They have been left for grazing by camel breeders at Biaora in Rajgarh district of MP.

Fog on Guna Bhopal highway

2010-01-10T08:56:00.000+05:30

This picture was taken on Friday morning when the visibility on Guna - Bhopal highway was nearly zero and it was chilly morning, but this could not deter these women to fetch for woods which is a need to run their houses.

Rose exhibition opens in Bhopal

2010-01-09T17:15:00.000+05:30

Rose exhibition opens today at Bhopal. It will be officially opened by Mayor of Bhopal today evening. About 2000 enteries are participating in it. The painting competition of the school children is being introduced for the first time in 29th All India Rose Show, coupled with several competitions related to floriculture at the Government Rose Garden. This is being jointly organised by Madhya Pradesh Rose Society and Directorate of Horticulture. The competitions scheduled from January 2-9, have already started.

Tuhar Dal is Rs 45 per kg here !

2010-01-09T09:57:00.000+05:30

Women separating dal from the other waste at Tarawata Village in Guna district of Madhya Pradesh. They sell this to pulse traders at Rs 45 per kg who then polishes it, and is available at Retail for Rs 90 per kg at Bhopal !

Marble rocks and Madan Mahal of Jabalpur

2010-01-05T03:36:00.001+05:30

Jabalpur is surrounded by low, rocky and barren hillocks, which geologists and archaeologists can feast upon. When you are in Jabalpur you should visit Madan Mahal, a fort built by Gond Raja Madan Shah, on a top of a rocky hill. This fort dominates the skyline and provides a panoramic view of the town and the open countryside around it.

Jabalpur is also known for its marble rocks. On the bank of the river Bhedaghat, Narmada, lie these marble rocks, in all their splendour, adding name and fame to Jabalpur. On either side of the Narmada are white saccharine limestone rocks intertwined with dark green and black volcanic rocks. These marble-white pinnacles sparkle in the sunlight and cast dappled shadows on the pellucid waters – a glorious spectacle indeed! People here say that on a full moon-lit night, it is even more enticing although I did not get a chance to view it on a full moon-lit night.

Bhopal mela

2010-01-02T19:07:00.000+05:30

19th Bhopal mela was inaugrated yesterday evening at at Dusshera Maidan, TT Nagar, Bhopal. It is expected that it will about 500 stall, though many are still under preparation. The mela which started yesterday will go upto Feb 7, 2009. The Bhopal Mela Utsav Samiti has constructed a replica of Akshardhaam temple at one end of the Mela ground, which will attract many. Mela as usual will have regular stalls of bangle sellers, eateries, toys, crockery, handlooms and showrooms of FMCG brands. One of the stall in mela also offers an oportunity to learn magic in 2 mts !!, (no gurantees on this !). Mela is one of the major attraction to its visitors from Bhopal and districts nearby Bhopal during winters.

Child labour at mela is painful - Inspite of all its offers, one feels pained to see rampant child labour at the mela. Be it stall owners where one can see young boys working or are serving tea and eateries to the stall owners. At an age when they should be enjoying mela, be on the 'merry go rounds' they loose their childhood serving at mela. Indeed painful.

Black headed gulls

2009-12-25T23:01:00.001+05:30

Black headed gullls at Upper lake. These are migratory in nature and normally seen in Bhopal during winters. Here they are in between the lake, one has to take a boat to click them !

Wood Sandpiper at Hoshangabad

2009-12-23T22:21:00.001+05:30

The Wood Sandpiper, Tringa glareola, is a small wader.The Wood Sandpiper breeds in subarctic wetlands from the Scottish Highlands across Europe and Asia. They migrate to Africa and southern Asia, particularly India. I sited them in district Hoshangabad in farm field next to highway.

Song bird at Pachmari

2009-12-22T20:40:00.000+05:30

Common Tailorbird also called 'songbird' is popular for its nest made of leaves "sewn" together and immortalized by Rudyard Kipling in his Jungle Book. Although shy bird it is usually hidden within vegetation, their loud calls are familiar and give away their presence, like the way I sited in lawns of Hotel Golf View in Pachmari.

Mustard plant

2009-12-20T20:35:00.000+05:30

Mustard plan growing at farm fields at Hoshangabad.

Stork at Hoshangabad

2009-12-19T21:12:00.000+05:30

Scaring the crow away !

2009-12-19T20:05:00.002+05:30

Scarecrow in the farm field in Hoshangabad.

Link to the earlier article on Scarecrow's in Indiahttp://madhyapradesh.blogspot.com/2008/03/scaring-crow-away.html

A glimpse of Orcha

2009-12-09T04:25:00.000+05:30

A village of Niwari tehsil, Orchha is situated on the Betwa river at a distance of about 13 Km. from tehsil headquarter. It is 15 Km. from Jhansi(U.P.). Orchha is famous for the Bundela style of architecture which is considered by historian to be one of the mature manifestations of the amalgamation of the Mugal and the Rajput styles of architecture.The Bundela style is marked by its rectangular form of place relieved often by circular towards the corners surmounted by chhatris.

Hoardings on ‘four wheeled cycle’

2009-12-06T14:22:00.001+05:30

Polling for a total of 268 municipalities, municipal corporations and nagar panchayats (city councils) will be held in Madhya Pradesh phases on Dec 11 and 14. Campaigning for the same is at the peak. Stationary hoardings at crossings and market places can be seen all around the city. Uniquely one saw hoardings on ‘four wheeled cycle’ on Bhopal roads, being used to raising visibility of candidates. Earlier one had seen auto being used for miking and announcements, this time it is eco friendly four wheeled bicycles and with only hoardings without any noise pollution. But the driver has to pull an extra load and off course balamce it well, which is not easy.

Rally marks 25yrs of pain post Bhopal Gas Tradegy

2009-12-04T07:42:00.004+05:30

Torch Rally at Bhopal on Dec 2 marks 25yrs of struggle, post Bhopal Gas Tradegy.

Picture credit - A.M. Faruqui

Photo exhibition on Bhopal Gas Tradegy

2009-12-01T18:28:00.004+05:30

Photo Exhibition marking 25 years of Bhopal Gas Tradegy

Picture in Exhibition taken by Prakash Hatvalne

Swaraj Bhawan in Bhopal is hosting a photo exhibition on Bhopal Gas Tradegy. It has some touching images by Prakash Hatvalne and others photographers, which bring out pain and agony post disaster. It is a gallery exhibition of photos on the aftermath of the gas leak and the contamination by chemical wastes and initiatives to end the two ongoing disasters in Bhopal.

The 'killer' factory

2009-11-30T22:25:00.008+05:30

Present picture of chemical plant of Union Carbide which released a toxic gas into the atmosphere in Bhopal on midnight of Dec 3, 1984, which killed thousand and affected lakhs, many of which still suffer for want of justice.

Remembering the victims & seeking justice

2009-11-30T20:10:00.005+05:30

Marking the 25th anniversary of the world's biggest industrial disaster, Bhopal Gas Tradegy, this painting is being painted by art makers on the wall behind the statue opposite the factory gate as mark of remembrance to many whom had died and others who still are fighting for justice.

Bhopal showcases Bonsai

2009-11-29T14:20:00.003+05:30

Bonsai (pronounced bone-sigh) is an ancient oriental horticultural art form. The word Bonsai literally means (in Chinese & Japanese language) 'tree-in- a-pot'. Contrary to popular felt bonsai is not the art of stunting a tree's growth. Bonsai can be grown from seeds, cuttings or young trees. They are kept small by pruning branches and roots, repotting periodically, pinching off new growth and wiring the branches and trunk so that they grow into the desired shape.

A two day bonsai exhibition showcasing about 50 varieties of bonsai in different style is being held at Bhopal on Nov 28 & 29, 2009. This is 14th bonsai exhibition and competition organized by Bonsai Society of Madhya Pradesh in cooperation with Horticulture and Farm Forestry department of Govt of Madhya Pradesh.

In picture is Banyana which is 31 years old bonsai and is in Multi trunk style. By the way as we mention of Banyan tree let me also link you to the blog having info about the original The Great Banyan Tree in Howrah district of West Bengal.

Here is the is link http://kolkataeyes.blogspot.com/2009/09/great-banyan-tree.html

IIM entry exam have server problems in Bhopal

2009-11-28T21:02:00.004+05:30

Indian Institute of Indore is one of the IIM's in India, and to be in one of these premier institutes one has to appear for Common admission test, which this time was conducted online.

First computer-based Common Admission Test (CAT), the test at Bhopal centre did not take place due to server problems. In Bhopal, Technocrats Institute of Technology (TIT) was the authorised centre for conducting the test, but the concerned agency responsible for conducting the exam failed to provide question papers to the candidates. Due to technical problems in the server the CAT examination for the first shift scheduled to begin from 10 am failed to start."The problem is still persisting and it is not possible to conduct the exam scheduled for the second shift also from 3.30 pm," spokesperson of TIT ar Bhopal said.In both the shifts, 200 candidates each were supposed to take part in the the test on the first day.

Info about IIM Indore, only one in Central India

Situated atop a hillock, in a beautiful 193 acre campus is central India’s prime management education institute in Indore. It was established in 1996, Indian Institute of Management Indore is the sixth in the prestigious IIM family of management schools. The sprawling lawn looks beautiful, though it needs bit of maintenance but is still an ideal place for the brightest minds in the country to work their best to be managers of tomorrow !

Good morning Bhopal

2009-11-28T12:38:00.001+05:30

Black buck poses for the camera !

Black winged stilt at Bhopal's upper lake

2009-11-21T23:27:00.002+05:30

Bay Backed Shrike

2009-11-17T22:38:00.003+05:30

Bay-backed Shrike (Lanius vittatus) is a widespread resident in India and can be sited in Bhopal's Van Vihar. It is smallish shrike at 17 cm, maroon-brown above with a pale rump and long black tail with white edges. The underparts are white, but with buff flanks. The crown and nape are grey, with a typical shrike black bandit mask through the eye. There is a small white wing patch, and the bill and legs are dark grey.

On a rainy day at Van Vihar, Bhopal

2009-11-15T20:38:00.001+05:30

Common Jezebel butterfly at Indore

2009-11-14T09:35:00.002+05:30

Common Jezebel (Delias eucharis) a medium sized butterfly found almost all over India, except in the desert tracts. It is seen flying high among the trees, visiting flowers and gardens. etc.The Jezebel often flies high up in the canopy and usually comes lower down only to feed on nectar in flowers. Due to this habit apparently, it has evolved a dull upperside and a brilliant underside so that birds below it recognise it immediately while in flight and at rest.(Text adapted from wikipedia)

Lighting the lamp !

2009-11-14T09:26:00.001+05:30

Lampost at a crossing in Indore

Ruddy Shelduck at Van Vihar, Bhopal

2009-11-10T21:32:00.003+05:30

Normally migratory birds arrive in Bhopal in mid of october and are here till mid - march. But this year they are bit late. But now one can have site large cormorants on trees, and Ruddy Shelduck, whistling teals etc. Though still in less numbers. Ruddy shelduck (pic enclosed) a bright orange brown duck at Van Vihar Bhopal. The Ruddy Shelduck, Tadorna ferruginea, is a member of the duck,goose and swan family Anatidae.It is also known as the Brahminy Duck in India.

Wooley necked stork at Vidisha

2009-11-05T21:59:00.002+05:30

Wooley necked stork sited at a pond in Vidisha district of Madhya Pradesh. This is a broad winged soaring bird, which flies with its neck outstretched. It is a large bird, all black except for the woolly white neck and white lower belly. It walks slowly and steadily on the ground seeking its prey, which like that of most of its relatives, consists of amphibians, and large insects.

Workshop on making traditional Chhath material

2009-11-01T19:29:00.004+05:30

Seven day workshop on traditional ritual materials of Chhath called ‘Chhath bad’ is going on presently at Indira Gandhi Rashtirya Manav Sangrahalaya. It had started on October 28 and will end on November 3, 2009. Artists are displaying making of Chhath materials like bangles from lac, production of terracotta material from mud, baskets from bamboos etc.. in the workshop. To add attraction yesterday Major Tiwari famous Bhojpuri artist sang in the evening at the museum. (In picture Lalu Pandit from Darbangha district of Bihar working on potter wheel for producing terracotta elephant on potter wheel, Bangles from Lac on sale and Madhubani artists pianting at the workshop)

Bhopal Lake

2009-10-18T22:04:00.001+05:30

Bhopal Blooms

2009-09-28T00:14:00.002+05:30

Celebrating Durga Puja

2009-09-28T00:07:00.003+05:30

Bhopal celebrates navratra's and hundreds of pandals are set up in the city during these nine days. (pic is of mother godess from one the pandal near 6 number bus stop)

Solar cooker at Mhow

2009-07-06T02:17:00.001+05:30

Barli Development Institute Rural Women installed SK 14 parabolic Solar Cookers in Harsola and Jamli villages of Indore district by handing over to 5 needy, desirous rural and tribal women members of Self Help Groups supported by State Bank of India.

Spot billed ducks at Van Vihar

2009-01-18T11:06:00.002+05:30

Spot-billed Duck (Anas poecilorhyncha), is found in the wetlands of India, which Bhopal offers.
This bird is sociable, and normally found in pairs.

Chattri at Shivpuri

2008-12-27T10:02:00.001+05:30

Relaxing !

2008-12-25T19:40:00.004+05:30

Tiger enjoying the sun in his 'cage' at Bhopal's Van Vihar.

Bird over bhopal

2008-11-23T10:07:00.003+05:30

Bird in flight over lake at kaliasoot dam in Bhopal.

bird's nest

2008-11-22T16:57:00.002+05:30

A birds nest on a lane towards kaliasoot dam, bhopal

Bhopal bird

2008-11-21T17:00:00.001+05:30

Gadwell at Bhopal's Van Vihar

2008-11-18T11:46:00.003+05:30

The Gadwall (Anas strepera) is a duck of the family Anatidae and can be seen in Bhopal’s upper lake at Van Vihar in winters. It is migratory in nature, but is seen on wetlands, which Bhopal offers. It is not as gregarious as some dabbling ducks and tends to form only small flocks. This is a fairly quiet species; the male has a hoarse whistling call, and the female has a mallard like quack.

Himachal Pradesh ki Kadai

2008-11-16T12:04:00.002+05:30

A kadai from Himachal Pradesh at Manav Sangrahalaya, Bhopal

Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya is an autonomous organisation of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India and is dedicated to depict the story of mankind in time and space. Set up in April, 1979, is spread in 197 acres of undulating land, in front of the Bhopal's upper lake. It has natural rock shelters with prehistoric rock paintings, going back to mesolithic period, and evidence of other ancient human habitations.

Rotary on a crossing, Bhopal

2008-11-08T17:36:00.002+05:30

Jabalpur – the city of balancing rocks!

2008-08-25T19:47:00.002+05:30

Jabalpur is an ancient town in central Madhya Pradesh, India. It is located on the shores of River Narmada and is known for its marble rocks. But it has many other interesting sites including its unique topography..

THE CITY is surrounded by low, rocky and barren hillocks, which geologists and archaeologists can feast upon. When you are in Jabalpur you should visit Madan Mahal, a fort built by Gond Raja Madan Shah, on a top of a rocky hill. This fort dominates the skyline and provides a panoramic view of the town and the open countryside around it. One can see numerous rock formations around Madan Mahal but the one which catches your attention is at one of the exits of the Madan Mahal, atop the mountain. It is called ‘balancing rock’. Balancing rock is an independent rock balancing itself over another rock. Wikipedia puts it as an eroded volcanic rock formation. But it is a rock formation, perfectly balanced over another rock formation, for years - a good opportunity for professional photographers to click.

A few kilometres away from Jabalpur is the Tilwara Ghats, on the banks of the Narmada. It was amongst the several spots were Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes were immersed. It houses an old Mahadev (Tilwadeshwar) temple. It is soothing to take a boat ride on the Narmada River here and the cool breeze that embraces you when the boatman takes you a bit farther is indescribable. Well, if the boatman takes you under the bridge, you see number of ‘mud nests’ beneath the bridge.

At the Ghat, you will also see boats quarrying sand and trucks quarrying mud and sand for construction and other purposes. It is a matter of concern of course. And the way Narmada is polluted here, with people taking bath, cleaning utensils, immersing flowers and scattering poly bags all over the river, the bank of the river looks a complete mess. Unless the authorities wake up immediately, the pollution level may go out of control.

Jabalpur is known for its marble rocks. The marble rocks have been captured in many movies. For example ‘Asoka’, featuring Shahrukh and Kareena Kapoor, features these marble rocks. On the bank of the river Bhedaghat, Narmada, lie these marble rocks, in all their splendour, adding name and fame to Jabalpur. On either side of the Narmada are white saccharine limestone rocks intertwined with dark green and black volcanic rocks. These marble-white pinnacles sparkle in the sunlight and cast dappled shadows on the pellucid waters – a glorious spectacle indeed! People here say that on a full moon-lit night, it is even more enticing although I did not get a chance to view it on a full moon-lit night.

The only precaution one should take here is to hire a boat for exclusive use although more money is to be spent for the purpose. Sharing the boat with others may prove risky since the boats are invariably overloaded, although they may be cheaper (it may cost just Rs 25 per head, as it did in my case). Life jackets are not provided by the boatman! It is surprising that the administration has not looked into the safety aspect. Perhaps the administration will wake up only after a disaster strikes.

Another site worth watching is the Dhuandhar water fall (’Dhuan’ is the Hindi word for smoke). It is called Dhuandhar because the water droplets rise in a concentrated mass and create an illusion of vapour. It is against this backdrop many visitors to Jabalpur get themselves photographed! No doubt, it is a great a place for dating; the evenings are great but crowded. Here you can get some local youngsters to jump into the falls for a dare; of course, it will cost you – it is Rs 100 or so! Well, a few of them have been covered by a TV serial which showcased it as a demonstration of the youngsters’ bravado!

Jabalpur also has a Chausat Yogini, situated atop a hill. One can have a great view of the Narmada from there and experience the nice, cool breeze which blows across. This 10th century temple has carved stone figures of deities belonging to the Kalchuri period. Tripur Sundari Temple, Rani Durgavati Memorial and Museum, Pisanhari ki Madiya are some of the other places to see. The Bargi Dam across the Narmada River in Madhya Pradesh is a great tourist site.

It is near Jabalpur and one can have a breathtaking view of the Narmada. But unfortunately Bargi area also has stone-crushing units that provide concrete for the construction industry of the city. These units employ child labour, since they listen, work hard and are easy to hire and fire. Rural poverty, lack of employment opportunities and illiteracy have forced many children to work in stone-crushing units. More than 300 children continue to suffer here; they work in tough conditions; the work is painful and the children need urgent attention. I immediately referred the matter to higher authorities but things don’t change easily in India; more efforts are needed here.

Anil Gulati

Heritage buildings in Bhopal need attention

2008-08-13T08:09:00.002+05:30

Bhopal is full of heritage buildings but these suffer from neglect, be it the old artificial water way 'Rahat', Benazir Gate or Sadar Manzil. These are a part our identity that would be passed on to the next generation. Serious steps are needed.

BHOPAL, THE capital city of Madhya Pradesh has many heritage buildings and places, many of them are protected by the state and Centre, and have retained their glory. But I wish to divert attention to the places, which need help.

Rahat is an old artificial water way heritage, which was constructed in Bhopal (next to the lake at police officer mess), it is an example of old technique of drawing water. It was used to carry water from lower lake to Noorbagh, which was the garden of Nawab Jahangir Mohammed Khan Palace. There was a 20 metre high wall along the bank of lake with an open drain in the upper portion to carry water to Noorbagh. Water was carried to up to 2.5 kilometres by sheer gravitational force. Water was drawn by Persian wheel, which is no more, but Rahat that worked with the help of oxen still exists. This is an example how in earlier times one used to transport water using gravitational force to an advantage. Rahat, as it is called, is a heritage where garden exists but the water in the lake nearby stinks. If you happen to climb the stairs, you will feel hurt to see the lake getting polluted.

Another heritage monument that needs attention is Benazir Gate. It is on the backside of Benazir palace built by Shah Jahan Begum as the summer rest house in 1877. Locals here share that this was a three storeyed building but now is left with only one, rest all have turned to debris. The one storey that is left out is lying in a devastated condition with no one to care. It should have been renovated and made an important landmark of the city, but in Bhopal it lies shattered.

Sadar Manzil, a great heritage building of Bhopal presently houses office of Bhopal Municipal Corporation. This building was built in 1898 AD by Nawab Shah Jahan Begum and was converted as Durbar hall of Bhopal by her daughter, Nawab Sultanjehan Begum. The mosaic of the building is akin to Deewan-e-Khas of Red Fort in Delhi. The building from outside still looks beautiful but with Municipal Corporation office running in it, it has lost a lot of history inside the same and its glory will get eroded, unless some action is taken.

Bhopal also has a Taj Mahal, a palace built by the Begum of Bhopal. Begum Shah Jahan had built this architectural marvel as her own residence in the year 1884. The construction of the same was started in year 1871 and was completed in the year 1884. Thanks to the efforts of non governmental organisations (NGOs), media and activists, the hall of Sheesh Mahal is now being renovated by the state archaeology department. Courtyard of this Taj Mahal has Sawan Bhadon Pavilion, which is similar to the ‘Sawan Bhadon’ of Shalimar Garden in Kashmir. It has many parts intact and effort are being made to retain its original look. Efforts are on to help it regain its lost pristine glory. It is time when government bodies take notice of the above three and undertake some serious steps to preserve these.

Sanchi, a magnificent architectural expression

2008-08-09T23:38:00.001+05:30

Sanchi is now included in the list of United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation's heritage sites of the world. Emperor Asoka laid the foundation of this religious centre, a remarkable sense of Buddhist art and architecture..

RAISEN DISTRICT of Madhya Pradesh hosts one of the magnificent stupas of central India, namely the stupa of Sanchi. If one is traveling on a train from Delhi to Bhopal, the Great Stupa is visible from kilometers on a green serene hill overlooking the plain, attracting one’s immediate attention. Sanchi has remarkable specimen of Buddhist art and architecture right from the early Mauryan period ie third century BC to 12th century AD. It is now included in the list of United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation’s (UNESCO) heritage sites of the world.
Sanchi, has been known as Kakanaya, Kakanava, Kakanadabota and Bota-Sriparvata in ancient times. It was Emperor Asoka who laid the foundations of a religious centre at Sanchi, he might have been fascinated by the location of the hill or because of his queen, Devi who was the daughter of a merchant of Vidisha. He erected the Great Stupa (Stupa 1) here after redistribution of mortal remains of Lord Buddha for erecting several stupas all over the country in order to spread Buddhism.

Archeological Survey of India web site state that it was in year 1818, that General Taylor saw shapeless ruin in the wilderness of Sanchi. Captain Johnson dug out the entire western portion of the stupa in 1822. Alexander Cunningham and Captain FC Maisay (1851) further excavated it in search of relic casket. However the credit for piecing together the scattered fragments of this monument goes to Sir John Marshall during 1912-1919 who was the director general of Archaeological Survey of India.

The monuments of Sanchi
Sanchi’s monuments consists of stupas, monolithic pillars, temples and monasteries and are about 50 in number. Stupas are large hemispherical domes, containing a central chamber, in which the relics of the Buddha were placed and are the most characteristic monument of Buddhist India.

Stupa 1 – This is the principal monument at Sanchi and consists of a gigantic mound of sandstone surrounded by sumptuous porticoes with stone railings. It is known for its extraordinarily rich decorative work on its four monumental gateways (southern, northern, eastern and western gateways) or torana that provide access to the stupa. They are positioned almost exactly in line with the four cardinal points, and these gateways transpose into stone the structure of the wooden gateways. The lush carvings, prodigious creations in bas relief, high relief in the round, are an iconographic treasure trove.

The gateways – of all the gateway all of the first century BC the earliest to be built was the one on the south, which was principal entrance which was successfully followed by north, east and west gateways. Of all toranas or gateways, the best preserved is the northern gateway which enables the visitor to have a complete idea of the appearance of all the gateways. Each gateway consists of two square pillars crowned by set of four lions, elephants or pot bodied dwarfs supporting a super structure of the three cruciform architraves with spirally rolled ends.
The entire surface of the gateways is covered with relief’s representing scenes and decorations. The subject matter of the carvings on the gateways may be broadly classified as follows:

- Scenes from Jatakas – stories of the Jatakas centre round the previous births of Gautama Buddha
- Scene from life of Gautama Buddha
- Events in the subsequent history of Buddhism
- Scene relating to the Manushi Buddhas and
- Miscellaneous scenes and decorations

Stupa 3 – Situated about 45 meters to the north east of stupa 1 is stupa 3. Though smaller in dimensions and has one gateway and its hemispherical. It is crowned by single umbrella. The importance of this stupa lies in the fact that the relics if Sariputra and Maudgalyayana, the two foremost disciples of Buddha were found by Cunningham enshrined at the centre of this dome on the level of the terrace.

Stupa 2 – Dates back to the 2nd century BC, stands at the very edge of the hill and its most striking feature is the stone balustrade that surrounds it.

Besides these stupas there are remains of other large number of others stupas on the main, they are monolithic or structural. Immediately behind stupa 3 is stupa 4, which exists in heap of loose stones without the tace of any ground balusttade. Stups no 5 to the stupa 3 is remarkable in its have an image of Budhha (in museum)

Pillars
None of the free standing pillars, which can be seen at on the main terrace is intact. The earliest one them is pillar number 10, which was erected by Ashoka near south gateway of Stupa 1. The lower part of the same now stands alone with fragments of the shaft packed inside a shed near by. This may have been one of the finest columns by virtue if its magnificent capital. The other prominent pillars are Pillar 25, with octagonal shaft south of stupa 5 probably of Sunga period; Pillar 26 which is kind of imitation of column of Ashoka stands north of pillar 25, broken and Pillar 35, or Vajrapani pillar (pillar with surmounted by the figure of Vajrapani)

Temples of Sanchi
Temple number 18 of seventh century now has nine pillars out of the 12 and pilaster with architraves over them are still intact, stands on the raised platform facing south gateway of the Stupa 1. Temple 17 situated near the north east corner of Temple 18 and standing on the low moulded basement this temple consists of flat roofed square sanctum with a portico supported m four pillars in the front is remarkable piece of Gupta architecture, noted for its structural propriety and symmetry. In addition to above monastery and temple 45 built during the period of the 7th and 11th centuries, have a more developed styles of architecture. The doorways of this construction are ornamented, with the image of Buddha in an oval Halo.

Sanchi, not only is unique in having the most perfect and well-preserved stupas but also offers a wide information and education to our past. It is about 45 kilometers from Bhopal and is about hour and half drive from Bhopal. But Sanchi lacks number of trained guides. As per media reports it has only eight licensed tourist guides but normally three to four are available rest go missing. And Sanchi with guide is real interesting, the local knowledge of stories, history and culture add a value to the visit.

Anil Gulati

Peacock at Indore

2008-06-21T21:44:00.004+05:30

Peacock at Barli Development Institute for Rural Women - a non governmental organisation at Indore in Madhya Pradesh which is helping empower young rural and tribal women to become agents of social change. They have beautiful self sustained campus in the Indore city and is host to these peacocks.... (photo-anil)

Bhopal marks tribute to India's first war of Independence

2008-05-11T10:05:00.003+05:30

Tribute to martyr's - Bhopal city paid homage to 1857 war of Independence, While Bharat Bhawan of Bhopal had host of programmes like music festival and painting exhibition, squares of city with statues of freedom fighters were decorated and lit with earthen lamps as a mark of respect to Great War of 1857.

Aaj ki taaza khabar !

2008-05-10T09:06:00.004+05:30

Man reading newspaper early Saturday morning on a wooden bench in a park overseeing upper lake of Bhopal. Though interestingly ad in the newspaper which he may be reading says 'all news are missing' !!

Hum Tum !

2008-05-08T08:22:00.003+05:30

Comic characters Hum and Tum as shown in the film Hum Tum, painted by 'DS' on a rock in the walking lane at Bhopal's upper lake . Hum Tum were comic characters which have their own animated sequences in the movie 'Hum Tum. Hum Tum was the movie which was directed by Kunal Kohli, produced by Aditya and Yash Chopra and had Saif Ali Khan and Rani Mukerjee playing the lead role as Karan and Rhea. The movie is about the encounters of the two main characters until they, after several years and various meetings, become friends and finally fall in love at the end of the movie. Their state of relationship is also shown in the movie in form of Hum Tum animated characters, as Karan the main lead (played by Saif) was the cartoonist in the film.

Mobile companies paint the farm fields blue...

2008-05-08T05:02:00.007+05:30

Mobile subscribers in India are growing at fast pace and rural subscribers are major share in it, may be reason for mobile companies like Reliance to use houses in the farm field for its own advertising. Reliance is painting available places on farm field like storage houses blue on Indore - Bhopal highway to reach out to people. May be it's a 'double take' - to reach out to people travelling on highway as well as rural mobile users with its brand. In marketing terms they say Reliance wants to reach to the deep pockets to penetrate into this “bottom of pyramid” market, where lies the real cash cows. Interestingly on other hand Reliance is calling other companies to use their mobile service to advertise to rural hinterland..... ?

Bhopal's Deewan-e-khas

2008-05-07T20:17:00.005+05:30

Sadar Manzil - a view from the gate

Sadar Manzil at present houses office of Bhopal Municipal Corporation but at one point of time this red building was Hall of Public Audience. This building was built in 1898 AD by Nawab Shahjehan Begum and was converted as Durbar hall of Bhopal by her daughter Nawab Sultanjehan Begum. The building was beautiful but now with Municipal Corporation office running in it, it is losing its glory, unless the same is removed from there.
The mosaic of this building akin to Deewan-e-Khas of Red Fort in Delhi.

Under tree's shade !

2008-05-07T16:20:00.007+05:30

A person sleeping under the shadow of the 'Jhirni Tree', which is about 100 years old at Iqbal-e-Maidan, Sadar Manzil, Bhopal. Mentioned on the parapet under the tree is the famous couplet by Iqbal.

Seeing this pix, remembered a saying 'Every man has a different idea of what's beautiful, and it's best to take the gesture, the shadow of the branch, and let the mind create the tree'..... a point to ponder !

Sirpur lake leasing to life

2008-05-05T21:35:00.004+05:30

SIRPUR LAKE is based on the outskirts of Indore, it was virtually dying two years back but is now leasing back to life, thanks to the efforts of an NGO ‘The Nature Volunteers’ supported by Environmental Planning & Coordination Organisation and the Municipal Corporation of Indore. As of now it attracts many migratory birds, which pass through Indore and has a great avifauna.
The Nature Volunteers (TNV) of Indore, is a volunteer group that advocates environmental issues and has been raising concern on the condition of the lake. It has been relentlessly trying to save the Sirpur Lake.

Bhalu Monde a volunteer with TNV’ says that it took an effort of many years to shake the system so that we could reach this level, where it is reviving back. But this is the start we will make sure that this lake becomes the pride of Indore, which it is. ‘Indore is a fast emerging metro, this lake is like nature’s life line for us, and indeed was important to save this’ adds another volunteer of TNV. I was at the lake recently, early morning with my D 70 camera and was impressed by the efforts put in by TNV to save this wetland. It was great to see purple moorhens, coots, cormorants, grey horn bill, whistling teals and common teals which are some of the birds there.

Sirpur Lake is a rain fed lake and about 100 years old. The Holkars, the erstwhile rulers of the Indore state, created it. It has an ideal environment for birds and hosts many insects and fishes which form food for the resident and migratory birds. It was virtually getting converted into sewage and part of its land area was illegally being occupied during summer season and slowly this lake would have died down. Now fencing has been done around the lake to save it, and a jogging track is being developed, surrounding the lake. But still, open defecation and water pollution are many of the issues, which are affecting the lake and its avifauna.

Salutation

2008-04-25T03:18:00.003+05:30

Is she greeting us ? - a bird at Van Vihar, Bhopal

Spotted dove

2008-04-22T21:33:00.003+05:30

The spotted dove is pigeon which has black and white chequered patch on the neck sides and buff scaling on the upper parts. Spotted Doves eat grass seeds, grains and other vegetation. They are fairly terrestrial, foraging on the ground in grasslands and cultivation. It breed all year round with nests commonly found in trees, edge of buildings or even on the ground. This photograph has been taken at jeevan vatika alongside upper lake of Bhopal