Part-III , Bihar is mixture of history & culture

Lord Buddha

Valmiki Nagar- is a small village of west Champaran district of Bihar . It is very near to Nepal border . There is various houses namely , Valmiki Ashram . Valmiki was the great author of the epic Ramayana . A famous myth about Valimiki , he was mugger in his past life and then his name was Ratnakar . One day Narad Muni the direct devotee of Lord Vishnu came to Ratnakar and asked him that why is he doing such bad work . Then Ratnakar told that this is his source of income and thus he maintained his family . Then Narad Muni told him that if anybody of his family will take share of his sin of such work . Ratnakar told to Narad Muni that , yes of course his family members will take share of his sin , but Narad Muni was not convinced , he then told to Ratnakar to go to his house and ask his family members of this matter . Ratnakar went to his house and asked his family members ; but they were not ready to share his sin . Then Ratnakar understood that Narad Muni is right . He came back and asked to Narad Muni with folding hands that how does he free from his sin . Narad Muni then told him to pray for Lord Vishnu and thus he will free from his sin . Ratnakr started his meditation and the same continued since long years / a year / the year and he was fully covered with termite houses and lastly became free from his sin and thereafter he was enlightened and he became a monk . Then his name converted from Ratnakar to Valmiki Rishi and created the great epic Ramayana . Every year , at the time of Makar Sankranti , a great festival is organized at the Valimiki Nagar . Moreover , river Gandak is added the beauty of that place.

Pawapuri- this is holy place of Bihar especially for Jains religious . This place is 38 km away from Rajgir and also 101 km from Patna . This place is very important from Jain people as the last tirthankar ; Lord Mahavira was taken his last breath before his death in 500BC . One famous Jain Temple is situated at the center of a pond at Pawapuri . Between Octobers to March are best time to visit this place . Sightseeing centering this places is Rajgir , Gaya , and Bodhgaya . Huge visitors use to come here from various places to enjoy Rajgir dance festival , Chhat puja , Arts & Crafts..

Tar Ramayan- Rama is a great character of Hindu religion . It is myth that Rama is the personification of Lord Vishnu . Rama is the popular figure among the Hindus . He is grate heroes in Hindus epics / an epic / the epic . Tar is at Bhojpur district of Bihar . Some of the experts , Tar name came from wizard Taraka who always tortured and harm to innocent people of the village . She was very strong wizards and no one had capacity to defeat her . People of Bhojpur were afraid of such wizard Taraka . The people were prayed for Lord Vishnu to defeat her and save their life . Thereafter , Rama was born and in due course he came to Tar and killed that wizard Taraka . Since then the people of Tar believe that Lord Vishnu is always with them to save their lives .

Jain Temple

Part-II, Bihar, A state of very visible places

Vishnupad Temple

Gaya- is situated 100 km distance from South Patna of Bihar. Gaya is very old town of Bihar and it has importance in Hindus and also in Buddhists religions. Gaya is situated on the bank of the river of Phalghu. The funny thing of this river is that its flow of water is under mud & sand. To take out water of this river, people generally dig slums in the river. There is a famous place near about 3 km distance centring Gaya and that is Bodh Gaya. There is a famous tree that is called, Bodhi Tree. One myth is about this tree; Gautam Buddha was enlisted here and became Lord Buddha. There is a famous temple, Vishnupad Temple.

Ahirauli is a small village in Buxer. It is situated within 5 km centring of Buxer town. There is temple of Devi Ahaya. There is a myth that, Devi Ahalya wife of rishi Gautam. One day for a mistake, the husband of Ahalya had given her a curse and she turned to stone. Then Ahalya asked her husband that who would be she again human being further; then her husband told her that once Lord Rama will reach here and he will touch his leg on the stone and then she will be again human being. The local people believe that Lord Rama is always with them and protect them from all kinds of curses.

Hasanpura- this is a small village at the south side of Siwan district about 21 km far from the town. This place is important for Makhdum Saiyed Hasan Chisti. He was great religious and soul. He came here from far distance of the land Arabia and stayed here since his last day of his life. Moreover, this village is famous for its beauty and picturesque profusion.

Champaran- this place is famous for the history of freedom movement of India against the colonial British ruler. Her Mahatma Gandhi was started nationalist movement of India.

Ramchura- this is a famous place at Vaishali of Bihar. This place is very beloved place for devotees of Lord Rama. It is myth that at the time of going to Janakpur, Lord Rama was taken rest here. The footprints of Lord Rama are still there. This is the place of festivals of Hindu religions.

Maner Sharif- this is vast village lies within about 32 km on the west of Patna. This place has its own historical impotence. This is the birth place of the famous Grammarian Panini. This place was famous at that time for learning of Muslim religion.

Rajgir- it is about 15 km distance from Nalanda. There is green forest surrounding Rajgir. This green forest has increased the beauty of this place. There has a temple of Lord Mahabir, the founder of Jain religion. So that, this place is famous holy place for Jain people. Earlier it was the capital of MagadhMahajanpad. Most popular matter is that Lord Buddha lived here many years. His first council had taken place at this place. This place is also famous for health resource like warm pond which has value medically and it is myth that skin problem will be solved after regular bathing in the warm pond.

Bihar- A state of ancient universities

Agriculture Field-Bihar

Bihar is one of the states of India . This state is known for its ancient universities . One of them is Nalanda University . This university was built in the year 450 CE . This university was controlled and conducted by Buddhist monks . Odantapura was recognized in the year 550 CE and Vilramshila was recognized in the year 783 AD . At that time these were the famous universities in central Asia ; huge students were come from different countries for their higher studies . Bihar is also a leading state in yoga ; and here has a well-known yoga school Bihar yoga school .

Earlier time , Magadha would call the center of power of education and culture . This tradition was carried for 100 years . Magadha , Mithila , Anga and Vaishali , these places were known for different religious & extravaganzas of ancient India . In the era 684 BC Haryanka dynasty were ruled upon Magadha for their capital city Rajgriha (now it is called Rajgir) . It was myth that king Bimbisara was imprisoned his father with the help of his son Ajatashatru and captured the throne of Magadha . Latter on Ajatasatru was setup one new capital called Patuliputra . Thus the history was rolling and Bihar conquered by different kings and thus it came at the hand of Nanda dynasty and thereafter Maurya Empire .

At their time Buddhism were ascended and they stream lined ancient Bihar to new Bihar with their rich concepts . Thereafter Bihar was known as important place of culture and learning for future 100 years . At the time of Gupta dynasty , education likes science , math , astronomy , commerce , India philosophy and also region was reached to the peak . That period was the golden period in ancient Indian history of education . At that cultural programs were flourished by the Gupta dynasty and one those cultural programs were Avigyanam Sakuntalam drama that was written the famous poet Kalidas in Sanskrit language.

Abhgyanam Sakuntalam, Drama

Thereafter came the Mughal period , Md . Bin Balhtiar Khilji During his time the famous universities and lots of Buddhists were decimated in the era 12 century . The economy of Bihar is depending up on agriculture , Industry & Services . Litchi production is huge in Bihar and best quality of Litchi is export to other countries . Generally Bihar based on small scale industries . The art and culture of Bihar is still famous in the country .

Maithili Painting This is desi style related to the place Mithila of Drabhanga district . They create desi colour from rice and this colour is permanent on the paintings . This is traditional style of Mithila . all their paintings are inspired from Ramayana . It is myth that , this tradition had been running from that time when the father of Sita , the King of Ajodhya , Janak instructed to artists for create paintings on the occasion of marriage of his daughter Sita with Lord Rama . Then such Mithila paintings were appreciated by the king and thus the tradition has been going on . There are so many Mithila painters ; but Sita Devi and some other artists are well known in the world for their legendary work on Mithila art and paintings .

Mithila Painting

The folk song of Bihar is famous for India . This is actually group songs . Few singers are sitting together and do their songs especially at the time of festivals , marriage ceremony , etc . Bihar enriches India in classical music . The famous Sanhai player , Ustad Bismilla Khan is world famous in his stream of Sanhai playing . This is an instrument which the player is like  the bugle . In size it is long than  a bugle  and it plays by breath of the player touching his lips .

The main festival of Bihar is Chhath Puja . The is the worshiping of Sun. it comes after Diwali of every year . Generally the devotees reach at the bank of the river before sunrise on the day of such worshiping days / a day / the day and dedicate various fruits like bananas , apple , mangoes , etc. into river . The Dala Chhath puja comes after every two year .

Lichhis

Ustad Bismilla Khan

Bihar Folk Group Song

There are so many place at Bihar to visit for tourists . I will tell about those places at next part .

Part-III , Other Tourist spots of Bhopal

Taj-Ul-Masjid-Bhopal

In part-I, I have written that Bhopal is a city of lakes . Also I have written in part-II that Bhopal is city of Nwabs .

In part-III , I would like to say about some other important places which are also same attractive for tourists;

Shaukat Mahal , This palace is the symbol of rare architecture of Muslim & Hindu style which would not be found elsewhere . This mahal is situated at a very busy chowk of Bhopal . It is myth that this Mahal was designed and constructed under the supervision of a famous French architect .

Van Bihar National Park , this park is the important visit spot of Bhopal . It is situated near the Upper Lake . It is covered approximate 4.44 sq. km areas . It was opened for visitors in 1983 . The national park is strictly protected and watchfully observed zones . Here have huge undergrowth trees which are appropriate environment for animals , birds and reptiles . The main attraction of this park is white tigers . Tourists all over the world come here to visit such types of animals .

Taj-Ul-Masjid , This masjid was built in 19th century . The high peak of this masjid was built by pink bricks and rest part is built of marvels . The graceful structural design makes it one of the important historic tourist spot . It was built under guidelines of Begam Shah Jehan . One big water tank is situated at the center of the masjid . There are enormous courtyards which can accommodate maximum devotees at the time of their prayer. Pillars and halls are richly decorated and built of marvels .

Moti Masjid , this masjid was built in 1860 by Sikander Begum . This is magnificent masjid which visited by huge numbers of Muslim from the every corner of the country . Sikandar Begum was famous for her unconventional mentality . During her ruling time she had built many buildings and memorials .

Sanchi Stupa , this kind of Stupa is belonging to Buddhism . This is great historical place of India . This place is linked with King Asoka and also Bhagaban Buddha . This is very oldest structures of stone of India which enlightens Buddhist followers . This is very worth places of visiting .

Jama Masjid , it was built at the time of Qudisiya Begum . This masjid carries an attractive architecture . This is an amazing masjid and well protected by the state Government . Muslim from different part of the country visits this masjid frequently . This is also a place to visit .

Bhimbetka Caves , this place is most legendary place of the country where huge numbers of visitors are used to come to visit this caves . These caves are most probably the houses of pre-historic people of Paleolithic era . The main attraction of these caves is the paintings on the stone walls of that time . This is very surprising that most of the paintings are still in good condition ; so it can be though that what color they were used and how they prepared all these color and which components they would use and how they would collect all those ! Presently 12 caves are open for visitors when the total numbers of the caves are 600 . In 1957 , the caves were first time discovered . The paintings of the caves are the endorsements of our history and the creation of the descendants who are still the subject of experiment from the world . In 2003 , Bhinbetka Caves was recognized by the world heritage place by UNESCO .

Except these place , other important places are also remain to visit like Gwalior , Indore , Jabakpur,Khauraho , Mandu , Orchha , Ujjain , etc. ; but to visit all these places have to make a plan to visit entire Madhya Pradesh State centering Bhopal city .

Khajuraho Temple-MP

Part-II , Bhopal- The Beautiful City of Nawabs

Nawab Mahal-Bhopal

This city was perceived and originated by Raja Bhoj approximate in 11 century AD . Bhopal is situated on the seven hills with two magnificent lakes . This city is always the center of attraction of tourists for its historical concentration . Mosques , Lakes , Art Galleries and also Museums with lots of finest collections are suggested the particular interest of Bhopal .

Birla Museum , one of special museums of the state of Madhya Pradesh situated at Bhopal . This is the gallery of archaeology . In 1971 it was built . Huge collection of objects and fragments of the pre-historic period are displayed here .

Gohar Mahal , This is situated at the back of famous Mahal , Daukat Mahal and located at the side of beautiful upper lake . This was built in 1820 in the remembrance of the queen Gohar Begum that was the first ruler of the city , Bhopal . This Mahal is itself the symbol of the originate of architecture of Mughal & Hindu style .

Museum of Mankind , This museum is dedicated to the tribal community of the country . It was built for the honour of the tribal classes . This kind of museum is very few in the world which speaks to the history of the era of pre-historic with its huge collections . It is situated on the Shamla hills with vast area of land nearly two hundred acres . The gallery of the museum is open for tribal exhibition art and craft of the tribal villages . The new name of this museum is Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sanghralaya .

Bharat Bhavan , This is a multi-art self -governing museum . This is the center of visual art and performing of acting and also vocal art.. . Archaeological Museum , this is the invaluable heritage of the state . It is the place of implausible collection sculptures and painting and art-craft of the country . It is located near to the Lower Lake . This is ideal places of studying of archaeological studies for students of this subject . It is also open for visitors . The collection of this museum is mainly Bagh Cave paintings .

Sadar Manzil , This is the place which constructed by red bricks . Its architectural prettiness increased the attraction with an appeal to the visitors .

Lakshmi Narayan Temple , it is situated at the top of the Arera Hills. This temple is dedicated to the name of the Lakshmi , the Goddess of Wealth . Here can be found of various sculptures of 12th century earlier .

Lower Lake , I have already told in my first part , that Bhopal is the city of lakes . There are many lakes surroundings city . Out of them two are very famous and one of them is lower lake which is locally called , "Chhota Talab" . This lake is decorated richly by the state government as the memento of Mughal Emperor and dedicated to the visitors . Here water sport , rowing and boating are regular program .

Upper Lake , it is also locally called , "Bada Talab" . This is the huge water reservoir that lies at the Western part of the city . This is main sources of drinking water of the city . The existence of this lake is approximate of 11 centuries . The main water resource of this lake is Konals River . The beauty of this lake is unspeakable and also the attraction of the visitors .

Chennai- the Capital of culture

This is the capital of Tamil Nadu a province of India . This state is well known temples' state of the country . The South- Indian music and dance are world famous . Chennai is the capital of Tamil Nadu . Earlier the name of the capital was Madras . In 1996 , the name was changed officially by the Tamil Nadu Government.

I started my job carrier from this place . Earlier I was the employee of a private financial company and I was first posted here and stayed here for two-three years . My office was at the center of the city .

This city is also known as the film city . Most of the famous studios are situated here . After Mumbai , this is the second largest film industry is there . This South-Indian film industry is generally makes regional films . Most of Tamils are very much fond of regional movies .

According to past history , many centuries , this state was under the control of various kings of South-India like Cholas , Pandyas , Cheras etc. most probably in 1609 , one settlement was made between the ruler Damarla Chennappa Nayakudu and East India Company , the Nayaka was granted the appeal of the British Company to build factory . Thus they built St . George Fort Latter on it was used as assembly of Tamil Nadu till the opening of new secretariat buildings .

There are so many places are to visit . Marina Beach is the important attraction of Chennai . This beach is long about 6 km.s this beach is the second longest beach within the world . Next one is Elliot's Beach is situated at the Adyar Delta . Guindy National park is also very famous place to visit . Semmozhi Poonga is a famous pond at Chennai . It is a botanical garden covering about twenty acre lands . The park Tholkappia Poonga is the largest park covering almost 358 acre land is also very beautiful place to visit .

Another most attractive place is Mahabalipuram which situated at the South of Chengalpattu . This is very decorative beaches and most popular place for shooting of regional and Indian films .

Parthasarathi Temple is one of the oldest temple I entire South India . It was built in 7th centuries . Santhome Church was built in 1523 by the Portuguese . In Chennai have many Museums and Art Galleries . National Art Gallery is set up most probably early of 18th centuries . Here every year arrange festival of art & culture.

Inside the St . George Fort is having one Museum called Fort Museum where is kept various momentous of colonial British rulers .

The art , culture , music and dance all are the identity of Chennai . Bharat Natyam- a famous form of dance is the speciality of the state Tamil Nadu . This city is also a famous place of classical dance and music as its traditional style . Annually one famous programme is arranged and the same is called Chennai Sangamam . It is the reflection not only the various arts of Tamil Nadu but also the show of the traditional arts and culture of adjacent states like Kerala . This programme is generally held in the month of January of every year .

Chennai is always got the importance of tourists of different part of the country and as well as foreign also . 

Part-II, Darjeeling- The Queen of Hill Stations

Tiger Hill

Darjeeling- The Queen of Hill Stations

I have already said a little bit about Darjeeling . Now I is briefing of the earlier part of my writing about tours & travel of Darjeeling . It is the most attractive hill station to visit in West Bengal . Darjeeling also called in the name of Queen of hill stations of the world.

Visitors from every corner are come here to enjoy the natural beauty . From the place Siliguri , bus service is available to Darjeeling . From Siliguri also have trained service and that is the heritage Toy Train to Darjeeling . The experience of riding of Toy Train is really a sweet memory for every visitor who traveled on this train from Siliguri to Darjeeling . Darjeeling is the combination of some villages . Earlier this place was controlled by Nepal & Sikkim.

From the mid of 19th centuries , it became important place for earlier colonial British ruler of India for its pleasant climate . Latter on this place was the second home for British ruler after Calcutta . During the period of summer time , the entire administration was shifted to Darjeeling by the British ruler and the same would be continued till the end of summer . Thereafter , they had examined the soil of this place and found that this place is very suitable for cultivating Tea as drinking of tea was the weakness of the British ruler . After all they became success.

Thereafter they took the place as their business aspect and they grew and developed this place as biggest Tea market in the world as the brand name Darjeeling Tea . This brand is  the world famous till date . Then they started to develop this place for tourists from different places of India and as well as of the world . They were also very fancy and nature lover and thus they set up one railway service from Siliguri to Darjeeling at the name of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway in the year 1881 and started Toy Train since then . This is now world heritage items declared by UNESCO.

The original inhabitant of Darjeeling is Lepcha and Rongpa . Their originality is unclear ; but their small eyes , nose type all are like Mongolians . Here the majority of the people called Gorkhas . They are always trustable by other people for their honesty and they had a vital role in the British army , called Gorkhas' Regiment . Other than these , there are other tribal people are also live here like Sherpas , Bhutias , etc. in one matter they are same that their features are like Mongolians .

These hilly people are having their own cultures and folk dances with their own songs . Their cultures are very rich and also very ancient . All Darjeeling inhabitants are divided in two parts of religion , one is Hinduism and second one is Buddhists and thereafter to some extent is Christian . Most of their songs and dances are for their respective gods & goddess .

Some folk dances are like ; Maruni Nach , Dhan Naach,Jhankri Naach,Jatra Naach , Damphu Naach , Khukuri Naach , Deora Naach , Panchay Naach , Dhimay Naach , Sanginy Naach , Balan Naach , Jhyauray Naach,Paschimay Chutki , Rodhighar Naach , Baton Naach , Jhumara Naach , Sakhia Naach . The main language is Nepali . But they can speak Hindi and also Bengali . Other refugees are mostly Tibetan,  they use their mother language.

Main foods of Darjeeling are , Momo , Thupkas , Shaphalay , Alidum , Tibetan Tea and Tongba .
The architecture style is fully influenced by the British and Tibetan culture.

The economy of Darjeeling is fully depending on the Tea Industry and regional fruits especially Darjeeling Orange , Quash , etc . The artistic fine craftsmanship of wood work , bamboo based work , ornaments , trinkets , handlooms , woolen items are valuable . Decorative Nepali Khukris , bedroom slippers , jackets , hanzu coats , handloom coats , etc. are the main attraction..

Within few km there is a Buddhist Monastery . It was built in 1914.

Ghoom Monastery- from Darjeeling this place is about 8 km distances . It is situated just below the Ghoom Rail Station . This is also very beautiful to see . It was built in 1875.

Senchal Lakes- it is nearly about 3 km distance from Ghoom Station . Toy Train can be availed from Darjeeling to Ghoom and from Ghoom another vehicle can be availed up to the lakes . This is just tanks of filter water that supplies to entire Darjeeling district . Here has boating facility and this place is ideal for picnic with family..

Tiger Hills-another attraction of Darjeeling tour is Tiger Hills from where the view of first sun rises of the day can be seen . This view is very attractive for all tourists . This place is the highest peak of Darjeeling .

Japanese Peace Pagoda- is also the place to visit .

Dhirdham temple- is also very nice place to visit . This temple was built in the year 1939 by Purna Bahadur Pradhan , the Rajsaheb . This design was done by Gorkhali architect Beg Raj Sakya at the style of Pashupatinath Temple of Nepal..

The Rope-Way at valley of Darjeeling-Rangit . This is another main attraction of Darjeeling . The journey of such passenger cars is another great experience for tourists . This is oldest rope-way of India is connecting Singla bazar with Darjeeling.

Shrubbery National Park- earlier park was destroyed by earthquake in 1934 . Thereafter , it was again re-built . The musical fountain is the attraction of tourists / a tourist / the tourist . In the evening it looks like heaven with the musical fountain.

Propelling on the rivers Teesta & Rangit is the adventures experience . There are all arrangements of such propelling on the rivers . Even trained river men are always available to serve the tourists and help them to gather great experience of propelling .

Other than the above , there are so many places of Darjeeling ; like Himalayan Mountaineering Institute , here it is found the memento of Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary , both of them were climbed Everest in 1953 , May 29th and created on unforgettable history in the world .

This is not enough , more and more places are at Darjeeling . Just come and enjoy .

Bhopal- the City of Lakes

Bhopal City

 Bhopal- the City of Lakes Bhopal is situated at the central India. It’s famous for its lakes. All these lakes are combination of natural and artificial. This is also known as fine green cities of India. Bhopal is the 16th largest city in India. This is also 134th largest cities within the world .Bhopal is generally divided in much parts one is old Bhopal and second one is new Bhopal.

 Bhopal disaster by the leakage of gasses from the factory of Union Carbide India Limited was taken place in the month of December of the year 1984. That was the biggest industrial disaster of the world history. It was taken place at the mid night 2nd or 3rd December. Generally during this time are the weather of Bhopal is very coolest .Everybody was sleeping peacefully under the Razai (one kind of local blanket that keeps human body very hot) and most of them did not wake-up in next morning ; they were lost their life during their sleeping . Huge street dwellers were died on the road. Huge dwellers of both parts of the Bhopal city were died on the incident. On that occasion, people of every corner of the world were shown their protest by various ways.

 I went to Bhopal in the year 1991, just after six years of the incident. But the effect of the gas leak was still carrying by air after six years to. I was attacked there by a peculiar eye disease after few days of my reaching at Bhopal .According to the specialist doctor, this is May the effect of post gas leak .I was there nearly three years and during this period, I had been suffered from that eye disease. There after I came back to Kolkata and continued my treatment for a long time. Now I am OK, but my eyes were something damaged.

 Earlier Bhopal was the capital of the Madhya Pradesh one of the province of India. According to the myth of the people, this place was first found by Bhoja, the king of Parama dynasty within 1000-1055 AD.

 Sometime it was the myth that the Bhopal was a small village under the kingdom, Gond. After that, during the Mughal period, one of the Afghan soldiers of Mughal army, namely Dost Mohammad Khan was rearrange this city. Thereafter, the Mughal Emperor, Aurungzeb was died and trendiest Mohammad Khan had taken the entire charge of Bhopal and further reorganized it as a city. Thereafter he added some more places like Berasia estate from the queen of Gond of the Parama dynasty. Thus he had set-up a largest city of Bhopal and took the title of Nawab.

Bhopal is a city of combination of natural beauty, past history, arts and crafts, everything. There are so many places are to visit at Bhopal and its surroundings likes / liked Birla Temple from where the city is looking very colorful at the night.

Bhopal Lake

In the next episode, I will explain briefly to those visible places with their history.

Murshidabad-A historical Place

Hazar Duari


Murshidabad is known as a historical place in Bengal . Nwab Siraj-Ud-Doula was the famous ruler of Murshibad . He was very popular with his kindness . He was very fond of music . Then entire India was under ruling of Mughal Emperor . At that time , Murshidabad was the capital of Bengal . The Mughal Rulerswas earned huge revenue from Bengal mostly from Murshidabad .

I went there few years backs and I visited various places of Murshidabad and its surroundings . Probably in 1757 , a battle was taken place in Plassey field with Nawab Siraj-Ud-Doula verses Brithsh East India Company . This battle is famous for Indian history . Lord Clive was the captain of East India Company . In that battle , East India Company defeated to Nawab Sir-Ud-Doula .

 Thereafter the ruling of Bengal transferred to the hand of British Government that was ruled under the name of Queen Elizabeth . Actually , this East India Company came to India to spread their business in Eastern Asia . According to that they entered in India early 18th centuries and took the permission from Mughal Emperor . Murshidabad is always rich in arts & crafts , wooden design and its silk is world famous . The Ivory make different crafts design is also attractive . This is also known for its agriculture productions .

 I went there for two days visits to cover the entire place of Murshidabad . There are so many bus for Kolkata and trains are also available for Sealdaha station . I went there by road with my friends booking one car . Hotels , Lodges are almost good for staying . First we went to visit Hazarduari Palace . Hazarduari means 1000 doors . It is three storieds very big buildings . All doors are looking same and it is hard to find out which door actually original to come out . On the bank of Bhagrathi-Hoogly Rivers Murshidabad are situated . After captured the administration of Bengal , the East India Company transferred the entire administration system to Kolkata as they set up their capital in Kolkata .

Thereafter they captured entire India gradually by defeating Mughal Emperors . Even then they did not shift their capital to Delhi . Because Kolkata was their first choice as they had started their business of India from this place . They actually prefer water route which was very useful for their business . There are many other places are to visit at Murshidabad .

Murshidabad Silk Sharee

Dhanbad- A Coal Mines District

View of Bokaro  Steel City

I was transferred at Dhanbad and lived there for four-five years approximately. Dhanbad is basically Coal mines and industrial district. In earlier at my time of living, it was under the state of Bihar on India.  Dhanbad was constituted in the year of 1956 by the Indian Parliament. In earlier most, at the time of colonial British rule, Bengal-Bihar-Orissa was together as a block. Actually this is the place of tribal like Santali, Koll, Val, Munda tribes. Earlier it was spread up to Nagpur and called Chota- Nagpur.

Dhanbad City

Damodar River is the main river of this district. It joints Bokaro, Konar and Barakar rivers. The Barakar river bridge joints Bengal and Jharkhand. The other rivers covering Dhanbad are Mayurakshi, Koyal, Sankh, Son, Auranga, More, Bansoli, Kharki, Swarna. I lived at Katras which is near the Bank More of Dhanbad city. From Howrah there are three-four trains are available which are directly go to Dhanbad. Black Diamond and Coalfield, these two trains are regularly up down up to Dhanbad. Steel express and Saktipunj, these two trains also regularly up down from Howrah, but they go to Bokaro & Patratur respectively via Dhanbad. Other than these trains, there are local trains from Assansol station. Except all these are so many long distance trains which also stop at Dhanbad station. It is also possible to reach to Dhanbad by road.

Fire Chamber of Steel Factory 

 Purulia, Bankura, these districts of Bengal are very nearby of Dhanbad. Different types of mother language speaking from different religions people are living at Dhanbad. Various religion festivals are famous at Jharkhand like Chatra Exhibition, Lawalong Exhibition, etc. culturally Dhanbad is also sound; rock art, per-harappan poetry, pre-historic cave paintings are also famous. The tribal’s dance and songs are most famous in India. Woodwork, paintings of pitkar, ornaments of tribal, doll, baskets are made of stone all the significant of Dhanbad’s rich culture and crafts.

The climate of this place is very hot at the summer time and also very cold at the winter time. Almost it can be said the climate is extreme. In the year 2000, Jharkhand was declared as a new state.

  There are so many visible places like; Maithan Dam- it is nearly 45 km from Dhanbad station. Here is boating facility.  Charak Pathar. This is the local name of this place. This is a large piece of white stone and thus this place name is like that. Chati Gobindapur- here is two pillars; one is in the name of Emperor Asoka and next one is in the name of Sher Sha. Gopalpur- this place is in Nirsa & Chirkunda, it is the significant for an ancient pillar of Emperor Ashka, Jhinjhipahari- this place is significant for an ancient temple of Lord Shiva, it was found at the time of digging for coal mine, Maithon Dam- from Dhanbad it is 52 km. it is constructed on the river Barakar. Here is a power station DVC. Here is a lake with resort for staying. Boating with fishing is also the attraction of this lace.

 Just within few km, there is a very old temple Kalyaneswari.  Panchet Dam is another attraction of Dhanbad. It is situated at the height of 134 fits of the Panchet hill. Bokaro steel plant is the next attraction of Dhanbad. It is approximate 47 km for Dhanbad. Thereafter so many other places are there to visit like, lower & upper Ghaghri water falls, Koel river view spot, Lodh Fall, Sadani Fall,etc

Howrah District-A Fine place to visit.

View of Howrah Bridge

The second city of after Kolkata in West Bengal is Howrah. It is also known as Haora. Both the cities are situated at the both banks of the river Ganges. Howrah is also called the city of Industry. Both the cities are well connected by various bridges like Howrah Bridge, namely Rabindra Setu; this bridge is very old and suited by the colonial British Government during their time of their administration. Another bridge is Hoogly Bridge, namely Vidyasagar Setup, this bridge was built few year passed by the Indian Government. This bridge design is latest. Some cables are jointed both sides of the bridge. Other than this, Vivekananda setu is connected Bally and Howrah. This bridge was built at the time of colonial British rule. Except these bridges, there are boat service is also there between Kolkata and Howrah. This route is generally used by the servicemen who come to Kolkata from various places surrounding Howrah district and at the same way people of Kolkata are used to go Howrah for their work purpose by this water-way.

In 1760, just three years after the Plassey battle, an agreement was signed between East India Company and Mir Qasim, the last Nawab of Bengal and according to that agreement, Howrah district including five districts were come to control of East India Company. Thereafter in the year 1787, the Hoogly district had formed by the East India Company covering a some areas.

View of Howrah Station

In the year 1854, Howrah Railway station was formed by the colonial British Rulers. Then some industries related to Railway parts manufacturing were formed. Following these industries so many jute mills were set up on the bank of the river Ganges and this trend was continued till the world war second.  Side by side, cottage industries were started to produce small accessories of these industries.

Belur Math

There are so many places to visit like Belur Math. The founder of this Math was Swami Vivekananda who is the direct disciple of Sri Ramakrishna, Botanical Garden of Shibpur. This is also very old garden and there are various types of trees which are ever seen by us, Dakshineswar Temple nearby of Belur Math. We can go there by boat service. Dakshineswar Temple is the place of Sri, Ramakrishna; it is myth that he has seen god after his very hard meditation. This is also myth that he could talk with his god as he would talk to other persons.

Commercially, this place is also famous for business purpose. In every week at Tuesday, a big hut (Market) are arrange near Howrah Station selling for various household items and comparatively cheaper rate.   

Industry of Howrah

Cultural Program of  Howrah

Welcome to Bishnupur

Welcome to Bishnupur

Bishnupur of Bankura District is a place of art & culture. Bankura is one of the districts of West Bengal.

Bishnupur is famous for terracotta temples and also its Baluchari sarees. Bishnupur has its magnificent past history and also has glorious architecture. Music & handicrafts are like pottery and weaving. It was flourished in the early 18th century. It was ruled by Hindu kings like Malla dynasty. The terracotta works were developed at that time as an art form. This terracotta works are famous in Easter India.

Raghunath, the founder king of Mall dynasty in 694 AD and since then the history of Bishnupur are tracked.
Latter 994 AD, the name Bishnupur of this place was tracked; because the major people of this place were the worshiper of Lord Vishnu. From the name of Lord Vishnu, this place was called Bishnupur.

Bishnupur is about 132 km distance from Kolkata. We can reach there by bus, train or any other private vehicle. From Dharmatala bus stand busses are available for Bishnupur. Train is available from Howrah station and also from Santragachi station.

There are so many lodges and hotels to stay. Out of them some are Bishnupur Tourist Hotel, Meghmallar Hotel, Hotel Bishnupur, Monalisa Lodge, etc.

Rashmancha was built by bricks and Veer Hambir, the king was built this pavilion in 1600 AD. This is oldest brick built temple in Bishnupur. The shape of this temple like pyramid tower.  To make the decorative images of this temple used terracotta plates and good clay which was available in plenty.

The joint Bangla temple was built by Raghunath, the king of Malla dynasty in the year 1655. Here also we can see the decoration of terracotta plates.

The Pancha Ratna (five gems) temple was built by Raghunath, the king of Malla dynasty during 1643 AD. This is a most difficult sculpture among the Bishnupur temples.

The Madanmohan temple was built by the king Durjana Singh in the year 1694 AD. It is richly decorated and designed than other temples of Bishnupur.

In between 17th & 18th century, the Malla kings were built large ponds which attract visitors still now. The names of these ponds are Lalband, Krishnaband etc. These ponds were dug for storing water and supply to villages and town.

The famous Poush Mela ( winter exhibition) is generally called as Bishnupur Mela. This mela is generally held at the last week of the month December of every year and it continued more than four days. People of the near villages and also from the other parts of the country are come to this mela.   Few years back, started a new chapter as festival of classical music and dance according to the Bishnupur culture.

There are various shops for selling terracotta Pottery & Artefacts and terracotta jewellery at Bishnupur. Moreover, worthwhile craft and gift items made on dokra metal are also famous.

Bshinipu Silk Sharee

Another attract item of Bishnupur is Baluchari Sarees. This kind of sarees is famous in India. Most of the Indian ladies are like to ware sarees in different style. This kind of sarees is creating by the best tantis of Bishnupur on their looms. This is cottage industries of Bishnupur. Huge tanties are engaged to make this kind of sarees. The border of this saree is display the part of the epic like Ramayana or  Mahabharata.

The music gharana of Bishnupur is very old. Raghunath Sing the king of Malla dynasty, requested to Bahadur Khan to come and stay at Bishnupur and enriched the Bishnupur gharana of music. Bahadur Khan was a great singer of that time and he was also successor of grate singer Tansen Bahadur. This gharana is still alive and carried by the new generation.

Bishnupur Terracotta

Bishnupur Terracotta Horses

Bishnupur Classical  Dance

So come India and visit Bishnupur which is known as the place of ancient history, art & culture, music & dance of oldest format of Bishnupur.

Burdwan District…. A Rice Land

Gate Way of Burdwan

Several times I visited Burdwan. This is well known district in West Bengal of India. This district is the large producer of rice in Bengal.  Rice is the main food of Bengalis.  Most of the Bengalis like rice for three time as their food.  Asansol, Durgapur, Burnpur, Kulti, Katwa are the subdivisions under this district. Burdwan is situated on the bank of the river Damodar.

Burdwan district is an advance district in Bengal in both ways agriculturally & industrially. Asansol is famous for coal mine, Durgapur is also known as industrial place; here has various important industries and in Burdwan has many rice mills which produce huge quantity of rice for the country.

Before Mughal age, Burdwan was under the ruling of Khetri Kings. They were commanding this large district.  After independence of India, Burdwan was become as an important economic zone by agriculturally and natural resources especially coal.

The history of Burdwan is very old from 5000 BC and belonging to late Stone Age. There is different opinion about the name of this district. One of them is; there was a colony called Bardhamana at the time of the progress of Aryans. Thus the name of this district Bardhaman or Burdwan. It means, growth & prosperity.
At the close of 3rd century AD, first Varman dynasty and thereafter Gupta dynasty came to power one after another and took the charge of this area. There after Pala dynasty & Sena dynasty were took the charge of the Bengal at about AD 1130.

The year 1606 was the important year of that time. That year Qutubuddin Khan Koka who was the brother of Jahangir, the Mughal Emperor, was appointed as the Governor of Bengal. At that time Sher Afghan was the jaigirdar of Burdwan.  The wife of Sher Afgan, Meherunessa was very beautiful woman. A big battle was taken place in Burdwan between Qutubuddin & Sher Afgan and both of them were killed in that battle. Thereafter, Jahangir associated to Meherunessa.

In 1622, Shah Jahan agitated against his father Jahangir. Thereafter he captured Bengal through Orissa. Thereafter he appointed Bairam Beg as Jaigirdar of Bengal.  And in 1628 he appointed Quasim Khan as the Subedar of Bengal after his throne to Delhi’s chair of Mughal Emperor.

In 1740, Maratha army was entered into Bengal through Nagpur under the leadership of  Bhaskar Pandit and captured Bengal temporarily. In 1746, subedar Alivardi defeated  Maratha army again captured Bengal.
In 1740, Chitra Sen was awarded as Raja by Mughal Emperor and there after his cousin’s son Tilakchand was also awarded as Raja by the Mughal Emperor. During his time so many temples were built.

In 1857, the British Raj was established in Bengal. Since then they tried to concurred all the province of India and bring to them under one umbrella i.e. Queen Victoria rules. In this program, they first defeated to Bahadur Sha Jafar, the last Emperor of Mughal dynasty.

In Bengal, they first of gave the pressure to all Rajas, Zamindars by demanding huge revenues for British Government.

In 1905, the British Government was declared the division of Bengal. Like other Bengali people, the people of Burdwan were also protested against this decision of British Government. The people of Bardwan were also participated in India’s freedom movements.

There are so many visible places at Burdwan district like Bijoy Toron, Protestant Church, Hawa Mahal, RajBadi, etc.There are so many train facilities from Howrah Station via cord and main line. Approximate two and half hours will take to reach at Burdwan.  By bus also we can go there. There are some beautiful hotels to stay; centering Burdwan, we can visit all visible places.

A visit to Nabadwip

Nabadwip- Mayapur Radha-Krishna Temple

Nabadwip is situated at the junction of the rivers Bhagirathi and Jalangi. This is under the Nadia district of West Bengal. The local language of this place is Bengali.

Nabadwip is famous for Sri Chatanya Mahaprabhu. It is the birth place of Chatanya Mahaprabhu. He was the believer of Lord Krishna. He is the founder of Baishnab Dharma. Sri Chatanya Mahaprabhu  born in the year 1486, February 18. That was Purnima (full moon light). Then his name was Nimai and sometime also called him Gour.

Nabadwip Radha-Krishna Temple

In earlier of his life he was vast learned person in Sanskrit. There was no Sanskrit pandit in Bengal who could defeat Nimai. At that time, often “Maha Tadka Sava (debates congress)” would be arranged and various education-expertise of different location of Bengal would come to Nabadwip and took the part of those debates of expertise. The whole Nabadwip people were gathered there only to hear debates of learned persons; but they would know that ultimately Nimai will win.

Nimai did not believe that anything happening in this world is beyond logic. He always tried to reach at the depth of any matter only to know the matte very well. According to Baishnab Sastra,  Sri, Chatanya Mahaprabhu was an Avatar (personification) of Lord Sri Krishna alias Lord Vishnu.

Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu

Then Nabadwip was the capital of Raja Ballal Sen and thereafter Lakshaman Sen, both were the famous ruler of Sen Dynasty. They were ruled over Nabadwip between 1159-1206. In the year 1202, Nabadwip was won by Bakhtiyar Khilji and thus the Muslim rule entered into Bengal.

At that time, Bengal was passing through a critical social situation where the lower casts people would not get chance to enter inside of the Hindu temples and other places of the society where the high casts of the society were already captured. The Brahmin cast was the leader of the society and their instruction also obeyed by the Sen Dynasty. They were always tortured on the lower cast people on different issues.

Then Sri Chaitanya  Mahaprabhu  was started to give them shelter by spreading his two hands. He gave shelter to all kinds of people from all religions. Thus he started one new branch of Hindu religion, namely, Baishnav religion. In the beginning, Brahmins were also tortured him and tried to break his confidence; but they were failed to do so. Lastly, the Baishnav religion was established by him firmly which is now spread up to other Western Countries.

Nabadwip and its district Nadia were always known as greatest learning and intellectual expertise’s land. Earlier the entire Nabadwip was also known as the Oxford of Bengal. Still this fame is continuing as there are having many well-known schools, college & University and these are enriched by best teachers & professors.

The name Nabadwip means together of nine islands. The names of these nine islands are Godrumdwip, Ritudwip, Jahnudwip, Antardwip, Simantadwip, Rudradwip, Madhyadwip, Modadrumdwip, and Koladwip. There are various festivals like Rash Purnima  Guru Purnima,Dol jatra, & other festivals.

Another attraction of Nabadwip is Isakson Temple and there are having of  Radha-Krishna Images. This is situated at Mayapur. This is very short distance from Sri Chaitany Mahaprabhu’s birth place.

We can go from Howrah- Katwa line by train and get down at Nabadwip Station. There are so many arrangements to reach the destination. We can also go by bus and thereafter by boat to cross the river.

A journey to Darjeeling

Darjeeling Toy Train

The existence of this hill station is in West Bengal map, a province of India. Darjeeling is a famous tourist spot. It is situated at 6710 ft. or 2,045.2 miters high from the sea level. Darjeeling is especially famous in world for its tea industry. Darjeeling tea flavor is world famous. The toy train is its most attraction for all tourists and UNESCO has declared this toy train as world heritage.

Darjeeling Tea Garden

I went Darjeeling in the year of 1985 with my some childhood friends and a family of my friend.  Then there was one train from Sealdaha station of  Calcutta, namely Darjeeling Mail. Now there are two-three more train are provided by the Indian Railway. Then Darjeeling mail would go up to Siliguri and from there was connective toy train which would go up to Darjeeling.  But after Siliguri, We went Darjeeling by bus through hilly road.  That bus journey was my greater experience; the entire road was very small with and full of turnings.  One side of the road is hills like wall and another side is deep upward slope.

In the mid of 19th century, the colonial British administration were setup one sanatorium and a military base camp at Darjeeling. Thereafter they were tried to cultivate tea plantation at Darjeeling and they became successful. Then the British administration decided to improve tea cultivation with latest technique and thus Darjeeling tea became a big business revenue earning source for them. In Darjeeling is having various English convent schools where come student from various parts of India and other countries. In early age before freedom, the high officials of British Raj were passed their summer at Darjeeling. 

The view of Kanchenjunga hill is very nice. Waterfall in Darjeeling is also good. Sunrise from tiger hill. Tea plantations in Darjeeling, Mall Road, Mall Area, Mahakal Temple, St. Andrews Church built in 1843, Batasia Loop from Toy Train, all beauty spots are the wealth of Darjeeling.

Buddha Temple

From Darjeeling, we went to Mirik by car. This is short distance from Darjeeling. Mirik is famous for its lake and flowers. There was boating facility for tourists. From there we went to Sikkim and spent two days in between two places. Thereafter we came back again to Darjeeling and stayed another three-four days there.

Tracking to Sundakphu

After completion of our seven to ten days Darjeeling tour, we came down to Siliguri and returned to Calcutta. The sweet memory of Darjeeling tour is still having in my mind which I never forget and I will try to go there again and again for its natural beauty.

View of KanchanJangha

My travel to Pondicherry

 Pondicherry

I started my service carrier in 1983 from Madras (now Chennai). Then I was 22 years old. I was employed in a non-banking financial company of India. I worked there nearly 17 years at a stretch and thereafter left the job in August,2k.

In 1983 I went to Pondicherry with my few colleagues for few days’ tour. Pondicherry is not far distance from Chennai. There are road & railway transportation arrangements are available. We availed bus service of Tamil Nadu State Transport. This is undoubtedly can say that the transport arrangement of Tamil Nadu Government is always best. Most probably few hours were taken by bus journey. There were well arrangement of staying by lodges and hotels. Hotels were out of the Rishi Aravindo’s Ashram area.

Since independent of India, Pondicherry is under the Union Territory. Pondicherry city is consisting of 42 wards according to Municipal Corporation record. The majority of Pondicherrieans speak Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam. There is a big community of French people in Pondicherry and various French institutions also exist like French Consulate, other French Institutes. Other of these, there are so many communities of other states of India like Bengali, Gujrati, etc.

There is big business center including manufacturing of air conditioners. In 2012, the power ministry of India inaugurated smart grid project in Pondicherry.

In South India, Pondicherry is a best tourist spot. There are so many colonial buildings, temples, statutes & churches. Everywhere we felt the touch of French cultures.  This is quite possible, because earlier Pondicherry was the colonial of French. There are so many beaches like Promenade Beach, Paradise Beach, Aurovill Beach, Serenity Beach, etc.

Pondicherry botanical garden is near to the new bus stand. Manakula Vinayagae Street is well known for Hindu Temples. Before 1666, Sri Manakula Vinayagar temple was existing and this is time before French came and settled in Pondicherry.

There is the great attraction of Pondicherry is Sri Arovindo Ashram. It is located at rue de la Marin. This is most well-known financially sound ashram in India. Sri, Arobindo was a Bengali.  In past Sri Aravindo was engaged in India’s freedom movement and was imprisoned two- three times by British Government. Lastly his mind was fully changed towards the divine life. Thus he started his long studies about divine and continued meditation to reach to a level of faith. The ashram area was so big and fully designed and decorated by trees, flowers and ashram’s institutes. In ashram’s canteen three time food were available. Asharm’s has its own bakery. Most of the visitors were taken their food from the ashram.

Pondicherry may be considered as universal town.  There all men & women of all countries are staying together with love, peace, harmony. Those days of our staying we were passed to a separate world where was having only love and heavenly peace.

Travel to Bandel Church

Bandel Church

Recently few days back of this year I visited Bandel Church. This is situated at Hoogly district of West Bengal of India.  This is a Portuguese church. In the year of 1599 it was constructed.

Bandel is a most busy urban city of Hoogly district.  It is connected by roadways & Railways. It is under the Eastern Railways of India. This is situated at main line of Eastern Railways. It is 40 km distance from station. Nearly 1 hour and another 10 to 15 minutes take time to reach at Bandel.

I traveled by train, called “Bandel Local”. Very often train facility is there at Howrah station. I traveled on Sunday, usually this day is weekly holiday and there is no rush of passengers like week days.

Train started from Howrah station 9 am and reached at Bandel about 10.10 am. I took a rickshaw from the outside of Bandel station. The name of the rickshawla was Basanta. He is from other district of Bengal. He is little literate, but he couldn't find out any job at his home town and lastly he settled here with his family and his main source of income is rickshaw pulling. He charged me his fare rupees 40/- up to Bandel Church, I started bargain with him but he was not ready to reduce the price. There was another alternative and that is auto rickshaw, but the auto rickshaws’ drivers were taking maximum passengers out of their sitting capacity. Then Basanta told me that you couldn't travel with those auto rickshaws. Half an hour distance from Bandel station to Church by rickshaw.

Bandel is very important place in Hoogly district. Dunlop factory is at Shaganj which is near Bandel. Bandel Thermal power station is also situated here.  It was started it’s works in 1965, and then its power generating capacity was 82.5 MW. Now its power generating capacity is 530 MW. . This power generating unit is under the control of the West Bengal Power Development Corporation (WBPDCL). Bandel is based on many bakery industries. The most important thing is Bandel Bazar; this is the biggest & important market in the district. Vegetable, fruits, mainly mango, watermelon and are export to various countries from this market. There are so many branches of banks at door step distance. This is good news for tourists.

According to history, Sahensa Akbar was given permission to Portuguese to be settled at Hoogly district. Then this district was a famous port-city.  Mainly Portuguese were came to India for business through water way. So that this kind of area was suitable for them. They decided to make Bandel their business center and settled surrounding Bandel.

In the year 1599, the main church was built. This is one of the oldest churches in West Bengal. But it was burnt; after that the church & the Monastery were built in further in 1660 by the Portuguese and it was dedicated to Nossa Senhora do Rosario. He is also known as Nossa Senhora da Boa Viagem.