SANCHI STUPA, SANCHI

 

Sanchi Stupa

Country: India

State: Madhya Pradesh

Timings: All days from sunrise to sunset

When was it built: It was commissioned in the 3rd century BCE. But many additions and expansions are done in different periods

Location:  It is located 46 km northeast of Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh

Who built:  Commissioned by Emperor Ashoka of Mauryan dynasty.

The great stupa at Sanchi is a very important  Buddhist monument located in the state of Madhya Pradesh in India. It was commissioned in the 3rd century BCE by the great Emperor Ashoka of the Mauryan Dynasty. It is one of the oldest structures in India and reflects  Buddhists art and architecture. It was declared as UNESCO world Heritage site  in 1989 and is considered as one of the best stupas in India.  It was earlier commissioned by Emperor Ashoka. Sanchi is the birthplace of Emperor Ashoka's wife Devi and also Sanchi was the venue for their wedding.

Foundation and Details of Sanchi Stupa

The great stupa  at Sanchi is a huge hemispherical dome with a height of 54 ft has a central chamber where relics of Buddha are placed. The great stupa at Sanchi with four thoranas on the gateway in four directions is one of the main attractions in Sanchi  great stupa. However this was added in the later period in the first century BCE.

Emperor Ashoka commissioned the construction of Stupa here after distributing the mortal remains of Lord Buddha to different places so that stupas are built and also to spread the message of Lord Buddha. The hemispherical dome is crowned by chattri, an umbrella-like structure which symbolizes honour and shelter to the relics of lord Buddha.

The great stupa which is the largest monument is also known as stupa 1 and is further beautified by the Pillars of Ashoka. The Shungas and the Satvahanas further enlarged the stupa by adding smaller stupas stupa 2 and 3 in the vicinity of the great stupa and also decorated with gates and railings.

Pillars of Ashoka were erected on one side of the thorana gateway. While the upper portion of the pillar is in the Sanchi Archaeological Museum, the lower part still stands firm near the stupa. The Pillar is inscribed with Schism Edict by Ashoka and also is engraved with Brahmi characters from Gupta period. The conch shells referred to as Shanka Lipi by scholars were erected in the site.

The great stupa which is the largest monument is also known as stupa 1 and is further beautified by the Pillars of Ashoka. The Shungas and the Satvahanas further enlarged the stupa by adding smaller stupas stupa 2 and 3 in the vicinity of the great stupa and also decorated with gates and railings.

Pillars of Ashoka were erected on one side of the thorana gateway. While the upper portion of the pillar is in the Sanchi Archaeological Museum, the lower part still stands firm near the stupa. The Pillar is inscribed with Schism Edict by Ashoka and also is engraved with Brahmi characters from Gupta period. The conch shells referred to as Shanka Lipi by scholars were erected in the site.

During Shunga Period-Sanchi Stupa

Shunga is an ancient dynasty from Magadha which ruled the central and Eastern Indian Subcontinent from 185 to 75 BCE. After the fall of Mauryan dynasty Pushyamitra Shunga established the Shunga dynasty and made Pataliputra as  capital. According to Ashokavadana ( Indian Sanskrit text which describes the birth and reign of Emperor Ashoka) it is believed that stupa may have been  vandalized by Pushyamitra in the 2nd century. Later his son Agnimitra rebuilt the stupa and covered the original brick stupa with stone. 

The stupa was further expanded during the rule of the Shunga dynasty. It was expanded with stone slabs double the size of the original size. Three superimposed structures were built to crown the dome. It was considered the Wheel of Law or Dharma.  The dome was made to sit on a high circular drum which became the pradakshina path for the visitors. It could be reached through a double staircase. The railings around the stupa are only slabs with some inscriptions on it.

Thoranas and Gateways at Sanchi Stupa

The Sathvahanas who conquered from Shungas have built beautiful gateways all along the Mauryan and Sunga Stupas. Around 1st century CE  thoranas were built by the Satvahanas. The Balustrades and gateways were decorated and coloured  with inscriptions in Brahmi script on the Southern gate. When we take a close look at these gateways we can see the carvings relating to the life history of Lord Buddha as elucidated in Jataka Tales. One of the most important features of the carvings is that Lord Buddha has been depicted in various forms like tree, thrones, Wheels etc.

The southern gate of the great stupa is the oldest and the main entrance for the stupa. The narratives on this gateway give a lot of importance to the relics of Buddha and the how Emperor Ashoka spread Buddhism. This gateway is one of the two which was reconstructed by Major Cole in 1882.

CHARMINAR, HYDERABAD

 Undeniably the most prominent landmark of Hyderabad, Charminar has rightly been called as ‘Arc de Triomphe of the East’. It is also called as the ‘Mosque of the four minarets’. Not visiting this magnificent architecture while on a Hyderabad tour is nothing less than a sacrilege, especially if you are a travel enthusiast. Not only of Hyderabad, Charminar has become an iconic monument for entire India. An Urdu word, Charminar, means four turrets (char- four, minar-turret).

As suggested by its name, Charminar does have four exquisitely carved pillars, one of each side. This impressive structure stands calmly amid the hustle bustle of Laad Bazaar of the Old city. Maintained by the Archeological Survey of India, Charminar is a representation of the historical background of the city, its glamour, glory and cultural richness. Since its construction in 1591 by Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah of Shah Dynasty, Charminar has been captivating every visitor, with its architectural beauty as well as religious and historical significance.

                                                      

History of Charminar

Charminar was built by Sultan Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah in the year 1951. It is said that this square shaped structure with four pillars and intricate carvings was built in honour of his wife, Bhagmati. However, the actual reason behind building Charminar is still not clear.

As per a popular belief, Charminar was built to acknowledge the elimination of the plague which had affected the entire city immensely during that era. It is believed that Sultan had prayed for the end of this plague with which his people were suffering. Hence, as the plague ended, he built the charminar as a tribute to Allah. The four pillars are also said to be dedicated to the first four caliphs of Islam.

CHARMINAR, HYDERABAD

It is also said that it was built in the memory of Prophet Muhammed’s son in law who lost his life at the battle of Karbala as its design is in the shape of Shiya Tazias. Some also believe that location of Charminar is the place where Sultan had seen his then future wife Bahgmati for the first time.

As per a French traveller, Jean de Thévenot who travelled in the 17th century, the reason of its construction is entirely different. According to his narration which is in sync with the Persian texts as well, Charminar was built to commemorate the start of second Islamic millennium.

The inscription on the foundation stone is translated as ‘Fill this my city with people as, Thou hast filled the river with fishes, O Lord.’ This also indicates that the monument was built to mark of the city’s foundation as well. As per the historian Historian Mohammed Safiullah, Charminar was built as an epicenter of Hyderabad.

The construction began in 1589 and was completed in two years with a cost of Rs. 9 lakhs, which was around 2 lakhs huns/gold coins in those times. It is said to weigh around 14000 tones with a minimum of 30 feet deep foundation. In 1670, a minaret had fallen down after being struck by lightning. It was then repaired at a cost of around Rs.58000 then. In 1820, some part of it was renovated by Sikandar Jah at a cost of Rs. 2 lakhs.

There is another legend associated with the Charminar according to which, there is a secret underground tunnel that connects Charminar to the Goldconda Fort. It was built for the royal family, to escape in case of any kind of emergencies. However, till date no tunnel could be found.

Architecture of Charminar

An Iranian architect Mir Momin Astrawadi, who had settled in Hyderabad, designed Charminar. It presents an imposing structure which has clearly withstood the test of time. It is a square shape monument with four pillars, one on each side. The architectural design of Charminar is inspired from the Shia "tazias". These Tazias were built in the memory of Hussain, who was the son in law of Prophet Muhhamed and had lost his life in the battle of Karbala.

The square shape of the monument measures 20 meters on each side. Each side of the monument is 11 meter wide and overlooks at the four prominent thoroughfares. Charminar has been built with granite and lime mortar.

The four pillars around Charminar represent the four caliphs. These pillars or minars are 48.7 meters high. These are four storied, with each floor divided by intricately carved rings that surround it. On the top floor of Chaminar there is a mosque which is believed to be the oldest mosque of Hyderabad city. There are 45 prayer spaces or musallah. Attached to these is the open space which can be used to accommodate more number of people on occasions like Friday prayers or festival. It is located at the western end of the monument’s roof. It can be reached via 149 winding steps. The view from the top is also breathtaking.

In the middle of the Charminar courtyard, you will find a small vazu with a small fountain, which has been built to provide water for the ablution before offering prayers.

One can also notice the signature motifs of Qutub Shahi buildings on Charminar. The manner with which each pillar has been built makes it appear as a lotus leaf. The arches around the structure does lead to slightly shorter appearance when in comparison to the minars. In the year of 1889, four clocks were also added on all the four sides of the structure.

                                                              NIGHT VIEW

Places to visit near Charminar

What adds more charm to the visit to this historical monument is the proximity it enjoys with many other popular tourist attractions in Hyderabad.

The four pillars around Charminar represent the four caliphs. These pillars or minars are 48.7 meters high. These are four storied, with each floor divided by intricately carved rings that surround it. On the top floor of Chaminar there is a mosque which is believed to be the oldest mosque of Hyderabad city. There are 45 prayer spaces or musallah. Attached to these is the open space which can be used to accommodate more number of people on occasions like Friday prayers or festival. It is located at the western end of the monument’s roof. It can be reached via 149 winding steps. The view from the top is also breathtaking.

In the middle of the Charminar courtyard, you will find a small vazu with a small fountain, which has been built to provide water for the ablution before offering prayers.

One can also notice the signature motifs of Qutub Shahi buildings on Charminar. The manner with which each pillar has been built makes it appear as a lotus leaf. The arches around the structure does lead to slightly shorter appearance when in comparison to the minars. In the year of 1889, four clocks were also added on all the four sides of the structure.

Mecca Masjid/Makkah Masjid- It is located quite close to Charminar. Hence, when visiting the monument art lovers can also plan a visit to this ancient mosque. The structure of Makkah Masjid beautifully represents the architectural style of Qutub Shahi Dynasty.

Laad Bazaar- Another popular place to visit when at Charminar is the Laad Bazaar. Not just a place for shopping lovers, this historical market is an ideal place for photographers as well. Also known as Choodi Bazaar, this is an ancient market dedicated especially for glass and lacquer bangles. This market dates back to the time of Nizams and Qutub Shahis. It is located quite close to Charminar. Hence, when visiting the monument art lovers can also plan a visit to this ancient mosque. The structure of Makkah Masjid beautifully represents the architectural style of Qutub Shahi Dynasty.

Laad Bazaar- Another popular place to visit when at Charminar is the Laad Bazaar. Not just a place for shopping lovers, this historical market is an ideal place for photographers as well. Also known as Choodi Bazaar, this is an ancient market dedicated especially for glass and lacquer bangles. This market dates back to the time of Nizams and Qutub Shahis.

No visit to Hyderabad should be complete without visiting the most famous and majestic monument known as the Charminar. This magnificent and striking mosque constructed in 1591 has four minarets and is the most recognisable symbol in the city of Hyderabad.

Things to know before planning your trip to India

• When travelling to India it’s important to make sure you are up-to-date with travel requirements including obtaining an India visa.
• It takes around 9 hours and 42 minutes to fly to India from the UK.
• Bring your credit or debit card, but rely on cash to pay for most things. India’s currency is the Indian Rupee.
• The best time to visit India is between October and March.

QUTUB MINAR AND ITS MONUMENTS, DELHI

  

Qutub Minar and its Monuments, Delhi

Built in the early 13th century a few kilometres south of Delhi, the red sandstone tower of Qutub Minar is 72.5 m high, tapering from 2.75 m in diameter at its peak to 14.32 m at its base, and alternating angular and rounded flutings. The surrounding archaeological area contains funerary buildings, notably the magnificent Alai-Darwaza Gate, the masterpiece of Indo-Muslim art (built in 1311), and two mosques, including the Quwwatu'l-Islam, the oldest in northern India, built of materials reused from some 20 Brahman temples.

Qutub Minar History

Qutub Minar or minaret was constructed in 1192 by Qutab-ud-din Aibak, and later completed by his successor Iltutmish. The soaring conical tower is an exquisite example of Indo-Islamic Afghan architecture.

Qutub Minar is a World Heritage Site and has survived the ravages of time impressively. The Minar of Delhi is surrounded by a lush green garden, which is an ideal leisurely place for visitors. Qutab Minar is the favourite destination of tourists. It is India's most visited monument attracting around 3.9 million visitors every year.

Each of the 5 storeys and tower of Qutub Minar has unique designs.

It was hit by lightening couple of times and was damaged. The subsequent rulers repaired it. Thus it is standing mightily as it was before till date.

                                                                

Qutub Minar

Qutub Minar in Delhi is world heritage site. The tall minaret was constructed in 1192 by Qutab-ud-din Aibak, and later completed by his successor Iltutmish. The soaring conical tower is an exquisite example of Indo-Islamic Afghan architecture.

Qutub Minar Height  : 72.5 meteres or 237.8 feet

Steps in minar : 379 steps

Year Built : 1192

Address: Aurobindo Marg, Mehrauli, New Delhi

Built by :Qutab-ud-din Aibak

There are evidence that Qutubminar was built much before by Hindu emperors. Later Kuttubuddin has replaced the writing on stones.

Qutub Minar is a World Heritage Site and has survived the ravages of time impressively. The Minar of Delhi is surrounded by a lush green garden, which is an ideal leisurely place for visitors. Qutab Minar is the favourite destination of tourists. It is India's most visited monument attracting around 3.9 million visitors every year.

Each of the 5 storeys and tower of Qutub Minar has unique designs.

It was hit by lightening couple of times and was damaged. The subsequent rulers repaired it. Thus it is standing mightily as it was before till date.

Qutab Minar is a great masterpiece of Mughal architecture. The base of the Qutub Minar measures 14.32 meters and the top of the structure measures 2.75 meters. The bird eye's view of Delhi city from the top is amazing. The base of first storey has alternate angular and circular flutings, the second one is round. The third storey of the Qutub Minar has angular flutings. The balconies projecting out heighten the beauty of the Minar.

The tower is so high that around 379 steps are needed to be climbed to reach the top. Another taller tower adjacent to Qutub Minar is named Alai Minar which is somewhat tilted in one direction.

The verses from the holy Qur'an are carved on sandstone walls of Qutub Minar. This monument serves the purpose of calling people for prayer in the Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque. This is a tower of victory, a monument that signify the might of Islam, or a tower for keeping a check for defense.

There are claims and evidence that Qutubminar was built much before by Hindu emperors. Later Kuttubuddin has replaced the writing on stones. The stones has hindu God pictures on one side and arabic writing on other side.
Stones dislodged from the Minar have Hindu images on one side with Arabic lettering on the other. Those stones are now in Museum. These stone represent that invaders used to remove the stone- dressing of Hindu buildings, turn the stones inside out to hide the image facial and inscribe Arabic lettering on the new frontage.

                                                                              

Tourist attractions near Qutub Minar

Qutub Minar has some adjoining structures that lend shine of some of its fame. The Qutub complex houses the iron wonder nearby. The Iron Pillar is one of the metallurgical interests of the world. It is a thing to study as well as famous tourist destination. Traditionally people believe that if anyone standing in front of pillar with his back towards the column can encircle it with their arms, all his wishes will be fulfilled. Government has built a fence around it for safety.

An earthquake damaged top two floors of the minar during the rule of Firoz Shah; but was repaired by Firoz Shah himself. He built marble pavilions here. In the year 1505, earthquake again damaged it and was repaired by Sikandar Lodi. Once again the minar faced earthquake in the year 1794, then Major Smith refurbished the affected parts of the minar and replaced Firoz Shah's pavilion with his own pavilion. This pavilion was again removed in the year 1848 by Lord Hardinge. Now it can be seen lying between the Dak Bungalow and the Minar in the garden.

Many natural conditions weathered the minar but it is still standing with all the might owing to time to time renovations and reinstated and renovated by the respective rulers.

GATEWAY OF INDIA, MUMBAI

 Gateway of India, Mumbai

Even though Mumbai is famous for its Bollywood actors and movies, the most famous attraction in Mumbai is The Gateway of India. It is a popular gathering spot for locals, travellers, street vendors and photographers and is known as the Taj Mahal of Mumbai. The majestic monument was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Bombay. With so much fun and excitement this place is not to be missed with family or on your tour of India.

              Mumbai is the dream home of several ambitious aspirants, boots of vicious minds, and a vivid lifestyle.

It is not just about beaches, pubs, cafes, caves, and clubs. This island has a history so interesting that you would never see Mumbai as a crowded city but as a historical marvel.

Let us explore one of the historical wonders of Mumbai which has attaracted millions of tourists from around the world.   

Boats as seen from the Mumbai Harbour in Mumbai, India

FACTS :

• The Gateway of India is  India’s most unique landmark, situated in Mumbai, and is located at Apollo Bunder in South Mumbai, on the shore of the Arabian Sea.

• This architectural marvel scores over any other monument in Mumbai. The foundation stone of the structure was laid on March 31st, 1913, but it took more than 13 years to get completed.

• A Scottish architect built this symbol by the name of George Wittet to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary.

• During British rule, it was used as the entry gate for visitors who can from the west.

• This is the monument from where the last British troop left India for England in 1947.

The departure of British Troops from India – 28 February 1948

 

• The monument faces Mumbai Harbor and the Arabian Sea.

• The arch of the gateway has a height of  26 meters, i.e., 85 feet, and its central dome of 15 meters, i.e., 49 feet in diameter.

• The monument was built with yellow basalt and reinforced with concrete. The stones used for the monument were obtained locally, but the perforated screens were sourced from Gwalior.

• The monument stands very close to the famous Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, which was built in 1903

• In collaboration with  Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), Philips Lighting India took up the project of illuminating the gateway by installing LED lights which have 16 million shades. This was done in 2014 with a cost of 2 crore rupees.

• Undoubtedly the pride of Mumbai, this structure will always stay close to the heart of Mumbai. This monument stands right opposite the famous Taj Mahal hotel.

HERE IS A VIDEO SHOWING THE SKY VIEW AS SEEN BY DRONE:

NEARBY TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

• The Famous Elephant Caves is located close to the Gateway of India. Boat service is available from here to Elephant Islands, which is also known as Elephanta Caves.

• Famous leaders  Shivaji Maharaj and Swami Vivekananda statue is seen at the entrance of the India monument.

• The most famous and Prestigious luxurious Taj Mahal Hotel is situated opposite the structure.

• It is very close to Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus railway station, which was formerly know as Victoria Terminus. It is a historic terminal train station and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Distance around 3 km.

• You can take a boat from here which will take you to Alibaug, another famous tourist attraction near Mumbai. The ride is around 1 hour.

• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya at walking distance.

• Jehangir Art Gallery at walking distance.

• Colaba Causeway Market at walking distance.
• Marine drive around 4 km. 
• Flora fautan .At a walking distance.

WHEN TO VISIT:

Gateway of India can be visited any time all year round. I would suggest visiting during the early morning and evenings. The heavy crowd is seen during weekends and public holidays; you should try to visit during weekdays. There are no entry fees for visiting the Monument.

HOW TO REACH HERE:

2.5 km from Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminal (CSTM) and 2.4 km from Churchgate railway station. From here you can take a taxi to reach the monument.

This famous monument is easily accessible by road from any part of Mumbai. It is not very far from Mumbai International Airport.

FERRY RIDES :

You can magnify your experience at this monument by taking the Ferry ride, which starts at the foot of the Monument.

From here, private Jetties and government-run (MTDC) ferry service take you to Elephanta Caves which is declared as World Heritage by UNESCO. Recently even uber speed post service has commenced. Also, the M2M boat service has started to take passengers to Alibaug, it can even carry bikes and cars. READ MORE..

• Ferry Charges: ₹ 150 for adults and ₹ 125 for kids
• Cruise Charges: ₹ 5000

Inside view of the monument

Inscriptions on the top of the Monument

Statue of Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj outside the monument

A grand statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was inaugurated on 26th  Jan 1961 and is installed opposite the monument. It signified Maratha’s pride and glory. 

Statue of Swami Vivekananda outside the monument

Another statue of Swami Vivekananda is installed opposite the monument which marks the journey from Mumbai to Chicago for attending the Parliament for World Religions event.

Boats and Ferry for Passengers are taken from next to the monument to Elephanta caves.

MAP FOR GATEWAY OF INDIA

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MYSORE PALACE, MYSORE

 Mysore Palace, Mysore

The Mysore Palace is a famous historical monument in the city of Mysore in Karnataka. Commonly described as the City of Palaces, this is the most famous tourist attraction in India after the Taj Mahal. It is a sight not be missed with its spacious halls, lovely art paintings and Indo-Saracenic style architecture. Best time to visit is at night due to the astonishing illuminated lights covering the whole monument.

Mysore Palace or Mysore Maharaja Palace is one of the largest and most spectacular monuments in the country. Also known as Amba Vilas, it is located in the heart of the city of Mysore. The palace was initially built by the Wodeyar kings in the 14th century. Unfortunately, as it was made of out wood it got burnt down in 1897 during a royal wedding. The current palace construction was commissioned in 1897 and was completed by 1912. Designed by the famous British architect, Henry Irwin, it was built for the twenty-fourth Wodeyar Raja. It was the residence of the Wodeyar Maharaja’s of the Mysore State.

The current palace is built in Indo-Saracenic style and blends together Hindu, Muslim, Rajput and Gothic styles of architecture. The palace itself is a three-storey stone structure which has a series of square towers with arches covered with domes. There is also a large open space in front with an open courtyard in the center which is covered by a gold plated dome about 145 feet off the ground. A striking sculpture of Gajalakshmi, the goddess of wealth, prosperity, good luck is located above the central arch with her elephants. The palace is surrounded by a large garden. The palace houses a collection of exquisite carvings and works of art from all over the world.

Mysore palace during the day

Mysore palace at night

The palace also has several unique rooms. These include the public durbar, where the king would host major ceremonial gatherings. There’s also the Kalyana Mantapa, a spectacular octagonal shaped hall where all royal weddings, birthdays and ceremonial functions were celebrated. The Private Durbar, the Gombe Thotti and the portrait gallery are also worth a visit.

Golden throne

                                                        

                                                                   Mysore palace interior

The palace is now converted into a museum that is home to souvenirs, paintings, jewellery, royal costumes and other items which were once possessed by the Wodeyars. However, the erstwhile Royal family continues to live in a portion of the Palace. It’s a rainbow of stained glass and mirrors. The lavishly decorated rooms are hidden behind elegantly decorated and intricately carved doors. Musical instruments, costumes, children’s toys and portraits are displayed on the ground floor while the upper floor has a small collection of weapons. It is said that the palace displays the largest collection of gold objects quantity wise.

                                                                    Silver door

                                                                     Beautiful dorm

The Mysore palace complex has a selection of 12 Hindu temples. They have been built over a vast expanse of time with the oldest being built in the 14th century. The latest one was built in 1953. Someshvara Temple, dedicated to God Lord Shiva and Lakshmiramana Temple, dedicated to God Lord Vishnu are some of the more famous temples.

                                                     

Temple

The Mysore palace complex has a selection of 12 Hindu temples. They have been built over a vast expanse of time with the oldest being built in the 14th century. The latest one was built in 1953. Someshvara Temple, dedicated to God Lord Shiva and Lakshmiramana Temple, dedicated to God Lord Vishnu are some of the more famous temples.

Temple

The palace is illuminated with ninety seven thousand bulbs at night on Sundays and during the holiday season of Dasara. It is truly a sight to behold.

During Dushera