Jalpaiguri- Unique Place of Unity

Bungalow- Jalpaiguri

Jalpaiguri is famous for its dense forest, daydream grassland and also unique natural beauty.
Raj Bangshis are very ancient inhabitants of Jalpaiguri. How they came here, there has a very old history; earlier Mongolians were often come over this place for their trade and other purpose. They had their own culture and identity. Thereafter, time was passed, they were gradually settled at this place and mixed with the ancient tribes; and thus a new class was born, called Raj Bangshis. Other than Raj Bangshi,Lepchas, Limbus, Ravas, Mech and many other tribes are also inhabitants of this place. They are also same important of this place.

Thereafter, British East India Company won this country.  They had also extended their hand at this place. Bengalis were also reached here from East Bengal (Now Bangladesh) to be settled permanently.

British company had come here to extend their business and their main aim was huge profit. Most of the Indian places they had captured and converted into profit. As we all know that British people were very much fond of tea. It is undoubtedly can say that all Indian started to drink tea following British, before that we don’t have idea about tea.

Tea was not cultivated in our country before the British. Their tea habit had opened one new era in India and that was tea business. Earlier, before cultivation of tea in India, tea would come from far England; but that was very expensive. So, alternative way had to think by the British who were lived in India.  But very pointing thing was that tea plantation is not possible in any place, a very special climate is required for tea plantation. Land type is also required something different; sloping land where water will not stored at the root of tea trees. Climate will be cold most of the time, etc. after Darjeeling; this place was right place for tea cultivation.

British businessmen were collect tribal groups for this tea cultivation works from Chhota Nagpur. Thus tribal groups were permanently inhabitants surrounding tea gardens with their traditional god and goddess and also their belief.

Thus the place Jalpaiguri became colorful with all such people. Various arts, cultures, customs, festivals were mixed up with the nature of this place. Not only Jalpaiguri, in all place of India we can see this type of mixing of diversity with their co-existence.

Generally, traditional dance, songs, and also other cultures are generally based on folks. There are so many different groups of people with their so many different folk cultures. One’s festivals attend by other groups and even also take part actively. This is the soul of India.

Amazing Calcutta: Eminent Personalities of Bengal-Part-1

Statue of Rabindra Nath Tagore

Calcutta is a place where so many eminent personalities were born and became famous in their respective fields.

Rabindranath Tagore:  who doesn’t know about Rabindranath Tagore in this world? Though he was Bengali and from India; but, he was famous for his poems, Novels, lyrics and good composing of his songs and even also good painter in this world.

 I went to Rabindranath Tagore’s house at Jorasanko of North Calcutta and that is called “Thakurbadi”. This house is now state property; Indian Government has converted this house as a museum of Rabindranath. Here each and every room is telling his story. All usable items of Rabindranath are kept very carefully and neatly.

There is a guide who will help tourists by telling Rabindranath’s life history by showing all items that he would use at his time.

In childhood, Rabindranath was called”Rabi”. The journey to become Rabi to Kabiguru was not easy tusk. In 19th century he was born as 13th child of Maharshi Debendranath Tegor and his mother Sarada Devi. He didn’t go to school at his childhood as he was very much afraid of teachers’ stick. His father arranged his education at home.

Rabindranath was actually Pirali Bramin and they came from Burdwan district. Their actual surname was “Banerjee” and their estate was at Selaidaha of East Bengal, now Bangladesh. At Selaidaha and also in Calcutta, common people would call them “Thakur” and this word was converted gradually as “Tagore”.  Later on, his father changed his religion when he came to touch of Raja Ram Mohan Roy and became “Brahma”. Thus “Maharshi” was added before his name.
Rabindranath Tagore’s father was come to Calcutta to change his luck and then he started his salt business and thus he rapidly became rich.

In the year 1913, he won Noble Prize in Literature for his famous book of poems” Gitanjali”. All poems of this book were translated by Rabindranath himself. At that time he was the first Indian and also Non-English personality who won such prestigious and world famous prize. He was the founder of Viswa Bharati at Santiniketan of Bolepur. Viswa Bharati was his dream and he would think that students from every corner of this world  will come here at take  lesson of Indian Arts and Cultures and spread of these within all.

Painting of Rabindra Nath Tagore-1

Painting of Rabindra Nath Tagore-2

Rabindranath himself is a university and lots of thinks of him were to research like his life style, his poems, his novels, his paintings, his songs, etc. Once Rabindranath told that he will be survived thousands of years within his songs. This is true, generation after generation Rabindra songs have been still practicing by various singers not only of India but also from other countries. It is also noticed that, the singers of Rabindra Sangeet don’t like to sing any other form of songs.

More about Kolkata-3-Shahid Minnar (Monument)

Monument- Kolkata- With Large Ground

Recently the Chief Minister of West Bengal one of the provinces of India has declared that Sahid Minar (Monument) will be decorated by digital light. This is grate! On coming December of this year this lighting work will be completed. But due to insufficient source of energy supply, this lighting show will be conducted on special days like India’s Independent day, Republican day, etc.

The height of the Kolkata- Monument is about 157 ft.  In the year 1828, this beautiful memento was constructed.  It was made and dedicated in the name of Sir David Octerlani who was the Major General of British India Company. Major General Sir David Octerlani won a tough fight against Maratha in the year 1804 and also he won the fight against the Anglo Nepalis.

Mr. J.P.Parker was designed such a wonderful thing Monument. It is situated at the center of the city Kolkata.  The structural style of plinth of this Monument was like Egoists architectural. The pillar or column of this Monument was made by following the Syrian architectural style. The top of this Monument was made by following Turkey architectural style. To reach at the top of this Monument there are 223 stair-steps.

But this is very unfortunate that the total cost of construction of this Monument was nearly fifty lakhs of Indian money and that was forcibly collected from common people by the British Rules of India.

There is a large open ground surrounding of this Monument. There were held various meeting, gathering in earlier days and still the same have been going on. In the year 1931, the famous Bengali Poet Rabindra Nath Tagore had also arranged one meeting and had given his valuable speech addressing to that meeting and had protested strongly against the Hijli Massacre by the British Ruler of India.

Earlier this Monument was open for all and was no need of permission and the view of the entire city are just beautiful and so attracting; but in 1997, one person were jumped from the top of the Monument and died, thereafter, the entry was restricted by the State Government of Bengal. Now only those can enter inside of the Monument with the written permission. 

 In the year 1969, the last left Government was renamed of this historical Monument as “Shahd Minnar” and was dedicated to the freedom fighters of India who were died for the freedom of India.

A short Tour to Kolkata- Part-2

Victoria Memorial

Victoria Memorial: Victoria Memorial is situated just opposite to Rabindra Sadan. It was built within 1906-1921. This memorial was constructed and dedicated by the Indian British Ruler to the Queen of England. This is a magnificent building made of white marbles surrounding such a big garden with various trees and colorful flowers and a big pond. There is a museum hall with different sections like weapons of that time; Queen’s usable items, etc are kept for common people to see.

Mohor Kunja-Kolkata

View of  Mukta Mancha-Kolkata

 Mohor Kunja: This garden is situated beside of Victoria Memorial and just opposite to Rabindra Sadan. Earlier it was called ‘Citizen Park’. There is an open stage for performing cultural programs and dramas by any amateur/professional group. There is a artificial fountain which is the main attraction of this park; in the night, this fountain looks alive with various colors.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo-Ajitesh Bandyopadhyay

  

Academy of Fine Arts

Academy of Fine Arts: This is an art exhibition platform for all painters. In the year 1933, Lady Ranu Mokherjee was started such painting exhibition and then it was centered in a hall of Indian Musium. Thereafter in 1950, she selected this place and shifted such effort from Indian Musium to this present place with the patronage of West Bengal first Chief Minister Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy and India’s first Prime Minister Pandit Jwaharlal Nehru. Then there only was shown the paintings of all painters. In 1984, the first amateur theatre festival was taken place. Thereafter, this is also the second attraction of the Academy of Fine Arts.

St. Paul’s Cathedral Church

St. Paul’s Cathedral Church: This is situated behind the Academy of Fine Arts. It was erected by the East India Company and this magnificent state-of-art was built within the year 1887. This is the third oldest church in Kolkata after Armenian and old Mission Church.

Birla Planetarium-Kolkata

Birla Planetarium (Tara Mandal):  This is also a state-of-art. This planetarium is one storied building. Its structural art is very magnificent. It was inaugurated on 2nd July 1963 by the first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. This type of Birla Planetarium also exists in Chennai and Hyderabad.

Statue of Indira Gandhi

Indira Uddyan: Indira Uddyan was situated just opposite footpath of Birla Planetarium. This park is situated on the side of Jawaharlal Nehru Road. This is a small park but richly decorated by flowers, small trees, etc. It is regularly maintained by the Kolkata Corporation. There is a statue of the former Prime Minister of India, Mrs. Indira Gandhi. It was inaugurated on 26th January 2003 by the former Chief Minister Mr. Budhyadeb Bhattacharya.






21se July Shahid Uddyan: This Uddyan is also situated on the side of the Jwaharlal Nehru Road. This park was inaugurated by the present Chief Minister of west Bengal.

Elliot Park- Kolkata

Elliot Park: This Park is situated just opposite footpath of Tata Center Building. This park is suggested as a green piece of oxygen within the city. This park was inaugurated on 22nd November 2004 by Mr. Sujay Chakaraborty, ex-police commissioner of Calcutta Police.

Sundarban: A great place to visit-1

Royal Bengal Tiger-Sundarban

Sundarban means the Beautiful Forest.


Sundarban is a great attraction place of West Bengal which is one of the provinces of India. This is very adventurous place in India. This is the place of the great Royal Bengal Tiger. Sundarban is famous for three things; one is Mangrove Trees, second is Sundari Trees and third is Royal Bengal Tiger.

Sundarban is an inland on Bay of Bengal which is distributed in two parts, the major part of this forest is under the Indian Territory and remaining part is in adjacent country Bangladesh. From this point of view, Royal Bengal Tigers have common corridor for two countries. They don’t need passport to move within these two countries. I am joking. Sundarban is covered by canals and these canals are connected with the estuary of Bay of Bengal that is very nearby of this forest.
Other than Royal Bengal Tiger, there is very dangerous type of crocodiles. These two types of animals are very clever in nature and both of them are man eater. Some time, tigers are use to across the canals and reach to the nearest villages for their food. Generally tigers reach at the villages with the target of domestic animals of the villagers and they do it very cleverly; but when villagers try to protect their domestic animals, then tigers attack the villagers. Crocodiles are mostly eat fishes of the canals and dead animals which thrown to the canals by the villagers. Some time, they also eat those villagers who get into the water of canals for fishing.

There are different types of dangerous animals also exist in Sundarban area. Though they are generally eat withered flash which was left by the tigers. But they are very harmful for human, as they get chance they can attack people also.

Various types of birds also exist in Sundarban. This is also another attraction of Sundarban. Apart from that, in winter season, various types of guest birds use to come here from various part of the world. They generally stay at Sundarban for two-three months and during this time they hatch and take birth of new kids of them.

The natural beauty of Sundarban is very unique especially canals part. There is a common water transport called ‘Vutvuti’. Such name comes due to the sound of such vessel and this sound comes from the engine of the vessel. It has different size, small, medium, big and the fare of this boat is also different according to the size. If anyone wants to enjoy the beauty of the both side of the inlets properly, he has to book one separate vutvuti and pass through the inlets of Sundarban. The beauties of inlets are increased to a maximum number in full moon day. We are lucky that we had got chance to visit Sundarban in a full moon day. Throughout the night we stayed in such medium vutvuti and floated in most of the inlets of canals and watched the soundless atmosphere of both sides of the Sundarban. Our experience was very amazing.

In next blog I will try to write our tour plan and other information who to conduct an adventurous tour to Sundarban. 

More About-Kolkata-New Edition: 02

Birla Planetarium

 Birla Planetarium: The shape of this planetarium is round. This one storied building. The style of structure of this planetarium is like Buddhist art of stupa. It is situated just opposite footpath of Victoria Memorial. This planetarium is largest in India and 2nd largest in world. Birla Group is one of the eminent and famous business groups of India. They have built lot of famous establishments in India such this planetarium. There are also another two planetariums in Chennai and Hyderabad.  It is called by the common people “Taramandal”. On 2nd July 1963, this planetarium was inaugurated by the former Prime Minister of India Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. This is an astronomy gallery which contains huge fine paintings. The entire ceiling of the auditorium is specially designed like an umbrella which is full of stars and solar world. This is actually a big space world. The show is generally conducted within 12.00 PM to 7.00 PM and different regional language with Bengali. Huge spectators are come here from various parts of the country and as well as from various parts of the world. This is also another attraction of Kolkata.

Nandan Auditorium: This is a state Government made auditorium. This is build for the  development of film and culture of Kolkata. Many film festivals were held here since opening. In 1980, the former Chief Minister of West Bengal was laid the stone of such auditorium.
 
Rabindra Sadan: This auditorium is situated adjacent to Nadan. On 5th August 1961, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first and former Prime Mister of India was inaugurated this Rabindra Sadan. This auditorium is dedicated in the name of world famous Bengali poet and lyrist Kabiguru Rabindra Nath Tagore. This is also a state of art of Bengal.


Academy of Fine Arts: Academy of Fine Arts was earlier established in the year 1933. Earlier it was a single room within the India museum. Later on in 1950, it was shifted to present place and this was possible for Lady Ranu Mukherjee, former Chief Minister Mr. Bidhan Chandra Roy and the former Prime Minister of India Mr. Jawaharlal Nehru. It is situated on the Cathedral Road of South Kolkata. There are preserved different paintings of famous painters.

Saint Paul’s Cathedral Church: This is an island of attraction of Kolkata. this building was started by the Bishop Daniel Wilson in the year 1839 and the same was completed in the year 1847. This church is made of Gothic Revival style. One British Military engineer Major William Nairm Forbes was designed this church with the assistance of Mr. C.K. Robinson. It’s all windows is made of stained glass.

More About-Kolkata-New Edition: 01

Victoria Memorial

The name of the city- Kolkata is newly changed. Earlier the name of this city was Calcutta. It was the capital of British India. Near about 200 years, India was under the ruling of British Queen. On 15th August 1947, this country became independent.

Victoria Memorial: British Government was ruled in India in the name of Queen Victoria. Victoria Memorial was built by the Indian British ruler as the magnificent monument with the glassy white marble acquiring huge area of land. The most remarkable thing of this Memorial is that at the a revolving statue of angle with Bugle blowing. It moves automatically any of the four sides according to the wind blow. Its indicate the trend of side of wind blow.  This is the one of the attraction of this place. This Victoria Memorial is situated at the center and surrounding this monument, huge green grass covered field, gardens, big pond, etc. it can be suggested a piece of fresh breathing within the busy city. It has two parts, one is the glassy marble made Victoria Memorial Palace and next one is its beautiful gardens with pond and different types of colorful flowers. Inside of the memorial, there is a museum where various and different types mementos of British period are kept for showing to the visitors. There are so many different types of long and high trees surrounding this monument. Earlier, most of the people would come here for morning walk. Then there was no entry fee for the garden are. But now it is implemented due to control unwanted rush and keep the area of this place clean. Now the entry of common people within this area is restricted by time of entry; form garden, the time is 5.30 AM to 7.00PM and Museum entry time is 10.00AM to 6.00PM. The contact number is: +91033-2223 8109. The nearest Airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport and airport is just 16 km far from the Victoria Memorial. Hotels which are nearby of this monument of Art, Grand Oberoi, Taj Bengal, these are 5 stars hotels. Other than these hotels, there are many 3 starts and ordinary hotel near this Victoria Memorial.

Elliot Park -Kolkata

Elliot Park: Elliot Park is just behind of Victoria Memorial. This is a public park. This is very beautiful place of freshness and pleasing park in the city. This park is covered by trees, decorated bushes and there is also a beautiful fountain. At the night this fountain looks very beautiful for its different color changing lighting. Here has food stalls. This place is perfect for picnic.

Musical Fountain- Mohor Kunja

Mohor Kunja Park: Earlier it was Citizen’s Park. Thereafter it’s name was change to Mohor Kunja Park. This name was kept in the honor of famous Rabindra Sangeet Singer Kanika Bandyopadhyay. It is also famous for its musical fountains and for musical open stage for singers, dramatists, etc.

Purulia- Part-07: Most Attraction-Chhau Nritya

Chhau Dance Mask

Chhau Dance is origin from Purulia district. This is one of the  old and ancient folk dance forms of India. Chhau means chhaya and chhaya means shadow or mask. This dance form is also called “Mask Dance”. This is generally male dance form. The director of this dance  is pick a dramatic part the epic Ramanaya and Mahabhrat and also from the life of local people especially to those villagers who are hero of them.
Chhau dance has three forms from three province of India. One is Purulia Chhau Dance, second one is Bihar Chhau Dance and third one is Mayurbhanj of Orissa Chhau Dance. According to the geographical situation, these three forms of Chhau Dances have some little difference. Otherwise, all are same.
There are so many groups who are engaged to thei dance form; they are Domordi-Group, Birgram-Group, Madla-Group, etc. chhau dance is mainly a Bhumij Art. Especially this dance is for festival dance. As per the Bengali calendar, the month of  Chaitra is the proper time of Sun festival and on this occasion this chhau dance is generally performed. This Sun festival is generally continue for one and half month. But the popularity of chhau dance, it is not within the limit period of Sun Festival, now this dance form is also shown in different festivals of the year.
This is can be said easily that, like other old and ancient items, this chhau dance has also passed through various odd situations which are push it before the question, is this dance form survive? But the artists who are rural villagers of the districts Medinipur, Purulia, kept  this dance form alive inspite of facing lot of struggle and obstructions. Most of the villagers of Charida of Baghmundi of Purulia district are generally engaged in makinf of mask for chhau dance. These masks are verity in numbers and all of these masks are made of clay and old news papers. The makers of such mask are very much conversant with the epic like Ramanaya and Mahabharat and als the Brigatha of the local leaders. According to the chhau dance groups, they are able to make masks for different characters of the play. But most of the plays are mythological. It is shown the defeat of evil power and win of truth.
Generally, there is no specific stage or platform to show this dance performance. In most time this dance is perform at the open place where the villagers are use to sit roundly. This chhau dance is normally is start at night and carry sometime upto the next day morning.  Mridang or durm is the vital instrument of this dance performance. Before starting such dance, the drum player is normally play drum to worship God Ganesha. Alongwith drum, dhol dhamsa are also used. Moreover, song with this dance performance is very essential and one kathak thakur who explain or narrate the episode of the mythological eipc to the audiences. One thing is also very noticeable that, the artists of chhau dance are not capable to show their mood of the character as there are mask, they fulfill this defiance through their body movement.

Purulia- Part-04=Festival & Culture

Picture of Lord Shiva

Most of the people of Purulia district are tribes. Most of them are live under the poverty line. Their monthly income is very poor that they can’t provide their minimum basic needs of the life. Even then, according to their income, they manage all of their festivals and cultures and thus they have been carrying the torch of traditional festivals and culture of Purulia.

Picture of the Fair of Shiver Gajan

Shiber Gajan: The meaning of “Gajan” is songs; so, Siber Gajan means, songs of Lord of Shiva. Between March and May is the proper time of such festival. During this period all villagers of Purulia organized this festival. This time of festival, big melas or fairs are organized in different parts of the district by various community people; they sing various songs to admire to Lord Shiva and Goddess Gaudi. On this occasion various dance forms are performed like Natua, Bhagta,Theatre, Nanchi and Chhau with the various color of songs like Jhumur, etc. most remarkable of this Siber Gajan, the Bahurupi Sang group of the village, dress up themselves like Lord Shiva and Gaudi and move village to village and collect some rupees by showing Shiva Nritya and Gajan  with the accessories like Dholak(Drum), Kanshar ( one kind of round metal item and also flute. Such Shiber Gajan and fair are generally continue for three- four days.

Disum Sendra

Disum Sendra: This is called Shikar Parab means Hunting Festival. During the month of April and May of each year, during full moon, such hunting festival is taken place at the Ayodhya Hills. Generally this festival is the symbol of adulthood. Those people who are recently reach their adulthood drink brew (brew means Mahul Juice) and move forward on their hunting adventure.
Dharma Thakurer Puja: This is a famous god of the cast like Bauri, Bagdi, Hari and Dom of the village. Every year from the middle of April to middle of May, such villagers are worship to Dharma Thakurer Puja. This kind of god is normally is a big piece of stone to whom villagers are worship as god and such god is kept under a tree and open place.
Rohini Utsav: Farmers of Purulia district are generally distinguish this Rohini Utsav. Every year in the last week of May, farmers are plant seeds and celebrate.This hope is for future corps which will comes from seeds that they have planted.
Sun Festival: Normally this festival is called Poush Parbon. This is very popular festival in Bengal. Most of the districts of Bengal are arrange this festival. Most of the farmers’ families are being delighted during this festival. On 14th January of every year this festival is celebrated by the Bengali farmers. During this festival, Bengali females of farmers families are generally arrange various Bengali sweets, coconut and milk and offer to the god. This is the worship of Sun as god. This worship season is Poush Sankranti; this is a very delighted festival.

Purulia- A decent tourist place of West Bengal, India: Part-01

SUNRISE- PURULIA DISTRICT

Purulia is one of the districts of West Bengal which is one of the provinces of India. There are so having many places which are really most attractive tourist spots.
This is my always try to discover India and its provinces in form through my eyes. India is a most famous and finest country of the world. Thus entire world has curiosity about India specially tourists of the world.
I have an aim to open this blog site and that is encouraged to all tourists of the world. I want to spread a message to all tourists of the world about India as well as of its provinces.
I think and believe that before to start to visit any place, we have to do good home work; we have gathered a lot of information about the place where we have planned to visit. This home work is to know little about the pre-history, post-history and how it becomes a travel place, etc.
From the point of pre-ancient history, Purulia was very important place in India. Then the time was 5th century AD, according to the Jain Bhgawati Sutra, this place was one of 16th Mahajanapad. This place was also known as one of the part of Braja-Bhumi. Thereafter Purulia was the part of Jharkhand district and lastly it was added in West Bengal Map. Before taking the Dewani by British India Company, this Purrulia was very little known by the people.
India was under the ruled by the British Government for nearly 200 years. In the year of 1805, a Jungle Mahal district was formed by the earlier British Government of India with 23 Parganas including Purulia. Thereafter this district was came under the Manbhum District including Birbhum, Bardwan. 
After 1956, lastly the Manbhum district was broken and partitioned between West Bengal and Bihar; thus the Purulia district was born as independent district of West Bengal in 1st November 1956.
The Approximate are of this district is 6259 sq.km. the nearest districts are Burdwan, Bankura, Paschim Medinipur and also the state Jharkhand, Madhyapradesh, Odissa.  This is one of the tropical locations of India. In summer, the temperature of this district is closest to 52 degree and in winter such degree comes down to 3.8 degree. The rainfall of this district is not much. In monsoon, the humidity of this place is remain 75 to 85%, but in winter it comes down 25 to 35% approx.
The most visited places of this district are, Forests, Flora & Fauna, Ajodhya Hills, Matha, Murguma Dam & Kuilapal Forest, Jaychandi Pahar, Panchakote Raj, Duarsini Hills, etc. here I would like to inform that Tourism is one of most source of income of this district. Due to taught weather and soil, the agriculture of Purulia district is backward in comparison of other districts of West Bengal. The main agriculture products of this district are Silk & Lac (gum).
Kangsabati, Kumari, Silabati, Dwarakeswar, Subarnarekha and Dmodar are important rivers which flow across this district. There are so many dams like Murguma, Pardi, Burda, Gopalpur. The storage water of these dams are generally use for irrigation purpose of this district. Another dam is Saheb Bandh, this is famous and trendy dam for water bodies of this district. This dam is located at the heart of the town of this district. This dam is a big shelter of travelling birds which comes from various parts of the country like Bangladesh, Burma, Pakistan, and Baluchistan at the time of winter season like December to March.

Kolkata- The City of History

Victoria Memorial Hall

The history of Kolkata initiated from the year 1690 when the British East India Company came to Bengal . Job Charnak , one of the administrators of this British company first came to Bengal to administrate their business . According to history records , he is the founder of this city . Actually , this city was incorporated of three villages , one is Kalikata , second one is Gobindapur and third one is Sutanuti . These three villages were separate identity like Kalikata was a village of fishing , Sutanuti was weavers who lived on the bank of the Hoogly River and third one is Govindapur , specifically , cannot be known about this village from the history record .

Then India was under the ruling of Mughal Emperor of Delhi . According to the administrative system of the Mughal Emperor , every place of the country were their jagirdari and they would appoint the landowners or zamindars as their jagirdar . These jaigirdars have two works one is control their places administratively and collect revenue from their villagers . After that they would send the major part of the revenue to the Mughal Emperor in due time . Thus , the Zamindar of these three villages was Sabarna Roy Choudhury .

The British East India Company was already taken permission to start their business in India from the Mughal Emperor before came to Kolkata . In 1698 , Job Charnak , the first administrator of that company purchased those three villages from the Zamindar , Sabarna Roy Chowdhury and thus the right of tax revenue collection was transferred to their hand .

Then already another European country , France existed in India for their business . They had reached in India before the British company . According to them India were the place suggested as gold mines . In the year 1712 , the British completed the Fort William that is still having on the east side of the bank of the river Hoogly . They constructed this fort William facing frequent battle with French forces . In the year 1756 , the British company was started to develop their militarization .

Then Siraj-Ud-Daulah was the Nawab of Bengal.He protested against this British militarization and warned them . But the company administrators were ignored that warning , then Nawab attacked them and captured the fort William . After that the Nawab started to kill the British war prisoners . But this win did not stay longer ; Robert Clive , the leader of the British troops was again recaptured the city in 1757 approximately after the serious battle at the field of Plessey of Murshidabad and the city was declared the presidency city .

Thus the new era was started since then ; Kolkata declared as Bengal presidency by the British . Thereafter a new history was created by British after captured the entire country . Bahadur-Sha-Jafar was the last Mughal Emperor probably from whom the ruling stick of India was snatched by the British . Since then , they captured India . After few many years , the ruling of this country was gone in the hand of Queen Elizabeth ; the East India Company was started to work on the lordship of the Queen .

Thus India became the colonial country of British Government . Then their capital was Bengal and in summer time Shimla was their temporary capital . Thus India was the colonial country of the British Government and it was continued next 200 years approximately .

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

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-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