Jalpaiduri- A Passage to Natural Beauty.

Tea Garden- Jalpaiguri

Bengal has two parts, one is West Bengal and next one is North Bengal. Jalpaiguri is a commercially busiest city of North Bengal. This is situated at the Southern part of Himalaya as Tarai or plain land.  It is situated on the bank of the Teesta River and this Teesta River is second largest river in Bengal after the river Ganges. Another river Karla is also flowing within the the city. Locally this river Karla is called “Tames river of Jalpaiguri”.

Another attraction of this district is Kanchanjanga Mountain. This is a famous and third highest mountain peak in the world. It can be found very clearly in broad day light when the sky is free from clouds.

Climatically, Jalpaiguri is not pleasant the whole of  the year. The temperature in summer reach approximate 40+ degrees with tough humidity. In rainy day, huge rainfall is taken place at this district. In winter also, temperature comes down to a minimum degree.

Jalpaiguri is unique source of natural beauty. Here have Tea gardens which is called Duars’ Tea gardens. Since from the British Raj, India is one of the largest Tea producers in the world market. Here has beautiful forest with adventurous wildlife. Sceneries of this place is very amazing and most of the tourists love this place.

Jalpaiguri-this name probably come from “Jalpai” or Olive; it is myth that this place was largest producer of Olive and “Guri” is equal to land and all together it is land of Olive or Jalpaiguri. This place is an international border which connects the neighbor country Bangladesh and also Bhutan; moreover, this place connects also Assam and Darjeeling.

Most of the people of this place is migrated from various parts of the country and as well as from Bangladesh. Rajbanshi people are original inhabitants of this place. All the groups of people have their own culture and customs and a common trend is to accept to each other.
  
According to the history, Huien Tsang, the famous Chinese tourist had come there on feet via Tibet. His aim was to take lesson of Buddhism. Then this place was the part of  the Kamrupa kingdom. 

Jalpaiguri is entirely called “Duars”; Duars mean doors or passages which would use Bhutanese for their business with plain lands. Earlier this place was in the map of Bhutan and Cooch Behar. In the year 1864, British Raj was captured this place on the command of the captain Hedyet Ali. Thereafter this place was divided into two parts, the Eastern part was merged with Assam through Gowalpara and second part which called Western part of Tarai was independent. Lastly, in the year1869, one separate district was born, Jalpaiguri.

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-3

Largest Mangrove Trees- Sundarban

Our two days were passed with the villagers and their stories. Next two days we will pass in the forest and inlets area of the Sundarban. This part of our trip was very adventurous and dangerous too. Because tigers on the land and crocodiles in the water, as a whole we were covered by death, any tine anything could be happened.

Before enter into the forest, Bipul was arranged two villagers who had vast knowledge about Sundarban. They were our path-finders. According to them, we moved very carefully and very consciously, because any time tiger can attack us and then nobody will alive, tiger will not spare anybody. We followed those two villagers and watched the beauty of the forest. Birds were chirping on the banks of trees and watching us very curiously. Then we found a villager who was arranging to collect honey standing under a tree. We observed his activity how to collect honey from honeycomb. That man fired under the honeycomb and huge smoke were created which can’t tolerate by honey bees, they were fled away; in the mean time that man broken the honeycomb and put into his bucket. But during our one day forest trip, we couldn’t find the sign of tigers and we became very frustrated. We went back to nearest Bungalow; two rooms of this bungalow were already booked in our name, before went there we booked these two rooms of the bungalow. 

Next day was full moon day. We have planed our trip calculating this matter of full moon. Because of full moon Sundarban looks very pleasant and charming, moonlight was fallen in every places of Sundarban. Generally, in winter the day becomes smaller than summer day, at 6 pm, the entire area were covered by night darkness. Bipul came to us with the news that Vutvuti-boat is ready for journey. Bipul was managed one person who had vast knowledge about the inlets paths of Sundarban.

We started our journey. The entire area was bright lighted by full moon. A dreaming sequence was created at the both sides of the inlets. The Vutvuti was proceeding very slowly and we were watching both sides of Sundarban. Entire night we moved on most of the inlets and enjoyed much. That night I will never forget in my life.

Sundarban is very near to Calcutta. This is ideal for weekend trip. If anybody wants to go without package, then first take train from Sealdha South Station for Canning. From Canning will get conveyance upto Ferrighat. There is arrangement of Launch, Vutvuti, Boat, etc to go Sundarban. There is the system of taking permission from forest department and entry fees. After completing, there are two options, either stay at lodge, Village or at Bungalow. In non-package program, the entire arrangement will have to done by the concern person. That might not be the problem for local visitors; but this might be the problem for any foreigner. In that case, this is better to contact with any travel company or West Bengal Tourism Department. The will take total charges as per their package and entire tour will be conducted by them only. So there is no headache for travelers and the trip will be very comfortable.

In my next blog I will try to give more information about better tourism companies of Bengal in details.

Eagle catching fish- 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.

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- A decent tourist place of West Bengal, Indi Part-02.

Lotus of Purulia

Purulia Town- Purulia Town is one of the famous towns of West Bengal. This town is the head quarter of this district. This twon is well connected with various rails and roads.
Saheb Bandh- this is very nice and beautiful lake covering nearly 50 acres of land.at the mid of 19th Century, this lake was built. Colonel Tikley was started his work of digging this lake in the year 1843 and it took nearly five-six year to be completed. This lake is heaven for all kind of birds especially migrated birds who generally comes from Baluchistan, Siberia and other various parts of the world. During the winter season, these migrated birds comes to India and stay through the entire season.
Cheliama- is one of the famous tourist posts of Purulia district. This place is very attractive or we may call heaven for historians and also archeologists, because here has lots of potentiality of 17 AD’s civilization. Lots of terracotta works of the ancient time are found here. Apart of these items, here has a temple of Radha-Govinda which is also most attraction of tourists of the entire world.
Deulghat- this is a Bengali word; the meaning of this word is Land of Temples. Here has nearly 15 temples and this place is situated near Krishna River. There are many reasons which have made this place very attractive as tourist spot and one of these reasons is coupled with graceful carvings. Though the ancient arts and sculptures of these temples are almost destroyed by the storm of time; yet this place is same attractive like before.
Ayodhya Pahar (Hill)- this is another attraction of Purulia. This hill is located at the South-West of Purulia. It is nearly 42 km distance from the Purulia town.This hill is very much attractive for the tourists for its fresh water spring and water course. This hill is nearly 700mtr high. This is the perfect place to practice of mountaineering and rock climbing. This place has  beautiful nature and mythological  value.
Para- this is village and tourist spot which reminds us about the arrival of Muslims to the Eastern India. There are two types of duels, one is contemporary of Deulghat and other one is latter period. These two types proved their excellent of the impressive architecture and file craving works era after era. Such heritage buildings bounds to come tourists here.
Khairabera: This is a dam which is generally used for irrigation purpose. This dam is situated at Baghmundi. It is covered by hills and forest. This is also an attraction of Purulia. It’s beauty and pleasant atmosphere always attracts tourists.
Duarsini: This place is surrounded by small hills, forests and also  watercourses of various rivers. The beauty and charming of this place brings huge tourists. This is actually situated within the block of Burdwan. The forest department of this place has constructed three different types of racial cottages with double bed accommodation for tourists’ purpose.

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.

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 .

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

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

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.