Author: Tasneem Hussain

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Places to Visit

About Fatehsagar

Fatehsagar

Fatehsagar – Where Every Sunset And Sunrise Tell a Story!

Fatehsagar Lake Udaipur, Fateh Sagar Lake Udaipur, FS, Photo Gallery of Fateh sagar, City of Lakes Udaipur, Lakes in Udaipur.
Credits: Google

Considered as the Pride of Udaipur, Fateh Sagar is one of the prominent lakes of Lake City and is also a must visit destination for every traveller. Sited to the north-west of Udaipur and rambling over a stretch of 2.4 km, lies the sparkling lake, Fateh Sagar, which is one of the major tourist spots in the city. It is the second largest artificial lake surrounded by the Aravalli Hills and known for its scenic beauty, is one of its kind. The pear-shaped lake is walled by the Aravallis on three sides having a straight gravity stone masonry dam on its eastern side which has a spillway to discharge flood flows during the monsoon season. The blue waters of the lake and the backdrop of the green mountains present captivating scenery. One can behold the circumference of Fateh Sagar Lake by driving around its periphery and get a fantastic view of the entire lake. The entire circumference of the lake could be covered by road via Moti Magri Road, Fateh Sagar Drive, Rani Road and witnessing the Rajiv Gandhi park, Sanjay park and the winding road on the eastern route to get a picturesque view of the lake, and the Aravali Hills surrounding it

The North-eastern embankment is known as the ‘Pal’ and is usually known as the “Heart of Udaipur” by the city people. Pal is also the place for morning-evening walks by locals while travellers love experiencing a serene lake view walk on the long stretched pathway . The lake is a prime location for the youth of the city and gets flocked with people of all ages every evening. 

Fateh Sagar is 1.6 km wide and 11.5 meter in depth. During monsoons, the lake covers a total area of around 1 sq. km. The lake is primarily filled by Swaroop sagar link channel at the southern end and Madar channel on the north-eastern end. The runoff emerging from surrounding hills drains into nearby smaller lakes such as Sisarma, Madar, Nandeshwar, etc and from where the water is channelized through a systematic network of water streams. The lake’s excess water is accelerated to Udaisagar, from overflow section on the eastern side masonry dam during monsoons.

The lake comprises of three small islands. The largest of the three is the garden islands, known as Nehru Park, which no holidaymaker should ever miss to visit. The central attraction of Nehru Park, is the boat shaped café, which is the hot favorite amongst those who love to sip coffee and snacks, as they take in the reigning tranquility and serenity of the place. The second island houses Udaipur Solar Observatory which is the best solar observatory in Asia however it is not a visitor’s place. It is considered a prime site for obtaining good solar images because of its secluded location with clear skies above and clear waters below it. The smallest island though do not provide a visiting site however gives support to a jet fountain which adds further to the charm of this lake.

Solar observatory

Fateh Sagar Lake is also highly preferred for hosting big and small, national and international events in the town. One of the most awaited events that is held every year at ‘Fatehsagar Pal’ is the World Music Festival, which is a three-day celebration of music and voice. Generally held during the month of February, you can witness mind-boggling performances by national and international artists. From poems to soul-stirring instrumentals, one can easily find one’s kind of music here. Besides, Udaipur flower show is again another event which is a flower and plants exhibition that showcases wide variety of flora all around the world. The event is held in the month of December every year when there is a swarming of domestic and international tourists 

fatehsagar flower show

Another important festival held at the Fateh Sagar Lake is the Hariyali Amavasya Mela, which sees a great footfall of locals and rural folks from nearby regions every year. Also known as the ‘Green New Moon Fair’, this celebration is held during the Hindu month of Shravan or August/September. With the onset of monsoon this colorful festival is celebrated over a two days course ,at Fatehsagar and the nearby places. Fun, festivities and frolic mark the cultural celebrations that are held to welcome the rains.

Credits: Google
Credits: Google
Fatehsagar Masonry dam
Credits: Google

History –

Fateh Sagar Lake was initially constructed by Maharana Jai Singh in 1678 AD. However, after a span of 200 years, the earthen bund, which formed the lake, was washed away during floods, thereby razing the lake. Thereafter, Maharana Fateh Singh built the Connaught Dam on the Lake to mark the visit of Duke of Connaught, son of Queen Victoria in 1888 AD. The dam enlarged the lake and was later renamed as Fateh Sagar Lake.

Historic Fatehsagar

Before independence, the water from this lake was hardly used for any purpose and it remained more or less full throughout the year. The lake and the three islands, that were full of vegetation, were home to a large variety of flora and fauna like aquatic birds, waders, pythons, otters, crocodiles and many species of fishes. There were strict restrictions on fishing. The human interference was restricted to bathing and washing of clothes and that too in a limited area. Apart from this, there were numerous trees at the periphery of the lake.

After independence, the trees at the edge of the lake were chopped off. Government allotted contract for killing of crocodiles in early fifties. Government introduced fish contractors and it resulted in considerable depletion of fish fauna. The islands were developed into tourist spots. Several marshy places with reeds and other types of aquatic fauna and flora vanished. Residential houses came up around this lake and human interference increased, thus resulting in an increase in the usage of water from the lake and pollution.

Due to over exploitation of the lake, it came on the brink of drying many times and in the year 2003, the lake dried entirely for the first time. However, the lake has continued to replenish over the years. 

Attractions:

There are several activities one can indulge in at this site:

Fatehsagar Boating

  • Must try your hand at boating and a number of other water sports that are available here for the visitors. It is one of the best ways to revel in the beauty of this charming lake and witness the mystique of the Aravalli. Different types of boats are available at the service of the patrons and you can choose your pick from the same.
    The Boat Rides Timings are from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm
    Boat Ride Prices:
    15 – 30 per person for Indians.
    200 For adults.
    400 For children.
  • Indulge in nature photography. The sunsets here are especially picturesque and you must visit this destination to witness the same.
    Under the sun Aquarium Fatehsagar
  • Visit ‘Under The Sun’ Aquarium which is the largest public aquarium gallery in terms of gallons of water, numbers, and species of fishes in the entire Nation. This aquarium, built under the Fateh Sagar Pal, showcases over 200 species of fish brought from 16 countries across the world.
    Timings of the Aquarium: 8:00 am to 11:00 pm
    Ticket prices (inclusive of GST):
    Adults: Rs. 130
    Children : Rs. 65
    Foreigners: Rs. 250
    Virtual Reality Experience: Rs. 118
    Trick Art Museum: Rs. 100
  • Students: 124nehru-park
  • Take a boat ride to the Nehru Park which is an island garden in the lake. It has been developed rather beautifully and has lush green gardens displayed. The boat shaped restaurant is quite popular with tourists and locals. The Nehru Park is accessible by inboard motor boats.
    Timings of the garden: 9 am to 6 pm
    Ticket prices:For Adults: Rs 30 (Indian) and Rs 125 (Foreigner)
    For Children: Rs 15 (Indian) and Rs 60 (Foreigner)
    Moti magri
  • Visit Moti Magri situated at the southwestern shore of the lake, which is another major tourist attraction. The site at the hilltop houses Maharana Pratap Memorial and Moti Mahal Museum. There are some gardens here as well and the site is an ideal location to get one of the best views of the city. A light and sound show is also held in the evening.
    Timings: 9 am to 6 pm
    Ticket prices:20 per person for Adults
    10 per person for Children
    50 for foreigners
  • Take a horse ride or camel ride. You can easily find these rides along the ‘Naav Ghat’ or the boat boarding junction of the lake.
  • Enjoy a variety of street food by the lakeside. You can choose from a number of outlets which collectively forms the Bombay Market. Having coffee by the lakeside is a favourite of the locals.
  • Plan a small picnic with your family or friends. There are gardens around the lake where you can spend some quality time throughout the day.

How to get at Fatehsagar:

Maharana Pratap Airport, located near Dabok, is at a distance of 22 km from the main city. The airport is connected well with many domestic flights connecting all major cities of India.The railway station is located at a convenient distance from the city. The city relies on a vast network of rail which connects Udaipur to all the major Indian cities.The city also has a well-established bus service network which includes deluxe and non-deluxe buses as well as State run transport.

Let us know about your visit at Fatehsagar. You can mail us at udaipurblog.com and comment us in the section of this article.

Categories
Places to Visit

Bagheri ka Naka- A Perfect Place for Monsoon Getaway

Bageri ka Naka

It is rightly said that “ Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass…rather it’s more about learning to dance in the rain”. Usually, monsoons are considered dark and gloomy, which is absolutely a fallacy. And particularly if you are in Udaipur it cannot be monotonous, knowing that it is one of the best monsoon destinations in India.

People in Udaipur are always ready to fasten their seatbelts to hop on to the nearby areas during monsoon instead of merely sitting inside homes and sipping tea with pakoras. Monsoons are extremely pleasurable and one cannot make an omelette without breaking an egg, so get ready to get wet. 

bageri k naka

One such ideal place to visit during monsoon is Bagheri ka Naka which is a picnic spot for locals. Bagheri ka Naka is a small dam, nearly 50 km away from Udaipur in the Rajsamand district which is named after the village Bagheri. 

The place is a feast to the photographers’ eye, having lush green Aravali hills offering a perfect backdrop for the frame. The place usually gets flooded with people during rains when the water from the dam overflows. Moreover, it falls on the Udaipur-Kumbhalgarh lane which itself is a picturesque site where you can witness clouds kissing the mountains and thus a perfect place for a family getaway.

Do’s and Dont’s 

  • The place is in the interior of the village and you cannot find shops or good restaurants on the way or nearby area, hence it will be good to take food and some refreshment along.
  • The place is an excellent destination for photography enthusiasts, thus make sure that you do not forget to carry your camera or smartphones.
  • There is a pathway leading to the top of the dam, which offers a complete 360-degree view of the dam and the lake. It is suggested to wear comfortable trekking footwear so that you can easily climb the rocky track that leads to the dam.
  • Most people visit during monsoon to enjoy the overflow of water from the dam. Be cautious while you step in the water, since running water may cause a casualty.
  • Be very cautious while you step in the water, the base may be slippery which might cause you to fall. 
  • Special precautions must be taken if you are taking kids along, at the same time adults should be watchful during the time the dam overflows.Bageri ka Naka

Best Time to Visit

Monsoon is probably the best time to visit Bageri ka Naka because the dam overflows and that just doubles the beauty of this place. Locals usually prefer to visit during weekends but for a traveller, any day can be the best day.

How to reach

The place is nearly 50 km and a more than an hour ride from Udaipur since the roads are narrow and not very well developed. This place can also be reached from Nathadwara and is merely 31 km from there. Private cars or taxis are the best options, however, if you are a true adventurer you can travel through a bike as well.

Bageri ka Naka

location : 

https://www.google.com/maps/place/Bagheri+Ka+Naka+Dam/@24.9111505,73.5929667,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x396804dcc890fc0d:0xd57331becd16cc3f!8m2!3d24.9111457!4d73.5951554

Categories
News

30 कंटेस्टेंट, सपना सिर्फ एक “मिल जाए दो लाख कैश”

Paiso ka ped winners

“पैसों के पेड़ की डाल थामे और 2 लाख का सपना संजोए”

94.3 MY FM ने उदयपुर में पिछले 12 सालों मे हर तरह से उदयपुरवासियों का दिल जीता है, फिर चाहे वो सितोलिया प्रिमियर लीग हो या दिल वाली दीवार, रंग्रेज़ या फिर एक प्याला खुशी। इसी कड़ी को आगे बढ़ाते हुए और बड़े बुज़ुर्गों की कहावत को जुठला कर 94.3 माय एफएम ने सीज़न वन (2018) में पैसों का पेड़ लगाया, जिसने उदयपुर में अलग ही धूम मचा दी थी। उदयपुर के लोगों का उत्साह देखते हुए, 94.3 माय एफएम एक बार फिर इस साल पैसो का पेड़ सीजन 2 लेकर आया है, आइए जानते है आखिर ये पैसों का पेड़ है क्या:

पैसों का पेड़ अपनी ही तरह कि एक अनोखी प्र्तियोगिता है जहाँ 30 कंटेस्टेंटस को 72 घंटों तक पैसों के पेड़ से चिपके रहने को कहा जाता है, और जो प्रतिभागी, यह चैलैंज पूरा कर लेता है उन्हें माय एफएम की और से 2 लाख रुपये दिए जाते है। इस साल  निम्न प्रतिभागियों को इन कारणों से चुना गया:

 

Name REASON
Vijay Soni Vijay Soni स्टूडेंट हैं और इन्होंने योगा में एमए किया है।
Ravi Menaria Ravi आधा पैसा दान करना चाहते है, और बाकी पैसों से मॉ बाप को तीर्थ पर भेजना चाहते है।
Prashant Lalwani Prashant sector 6 में रहते  है और इन्हें Tomorrow Land जाना है।
Anuj Kumar Lakhan Anuj को जिमिंग पसंद है और इन पैसों से परिवार की मदद करना चाहते है।
Daulat Mewari Daulat, you tube channel चलाते है और इन पैसों से मेवाड़ की संस्कृति को internet पर प्रमोट करेंगे।
Dhnanjay Joshi Dhnanjay स्वयं12वीं पास है और छोटे भाई की पढ़ाई में मदद करेंगे।
Bahadur Singh 21 वर्षीया Bahadur Singh पेसिफ़िक  कॉलेज के स्टूडेंट हैं और अपने ड्रीम्स पूरे करना चाहते हैं।
Shakti Singh Panwar बेड़वास निवासी Shakti Singh मुंबई जाकर मॉडलिंग करना चाहते हैं।
Rytham Panwar कुछ महीनों बाद Rytham की माता जी का इलाज होना है, इन पैसों से उन्हें कफी मदद मिलेगी।
Nihal Sahu Nihal सीजन 1 के विनर मनोज से प्रभावित हैं और अपना नाम कमाना चाहते हैं, मात्र 21 वर्ष की उम्र में ही फेमिली को काफी सपोर्ट कर रहे हैं।
Avish Jain Avish इन पैसों को स्टॉक मार्केट में लगाना चाहते हैं।
Bharat Kalra Bharat अपना बिज़नेस शुरू करना चाहते हैं और साथ ही वह बहुत अच्छे डांसर भी हैं।
Himanshu Khokhawat Himanshu नेशनल पॉवरलिफ्टर हैं और इन पैसों से फरवरी में होने वाली प्रतियोगिता की तैयारी करेंगे।
Kaushal Rao Kaushal  के सपने बड़े हैं उन्हें मिस्टर राजस्थान एटेम्पट करना है, साथ ही अपना जिम खोलना है, स्वयं जिम ट्रेनर हैं।
Vishal Gawariya Vishal की आर्थिक स्थिति ठीक नहीं है, और उन्का मानना है कि यह पैसा परिवार की मदद करेगा।
Aayush Soni बेदला निवासी Aayush को बिज़नेस आईडिया बड़ा करना है और जल्द ही स्टार्टअप शुरू करना है।
Suresh Kumar Jat Suresh भुवाना में स्पोर्ट्स टीचर हैं और स्पोर्ट्स अकादमी लांच करना चाहते है, ताकि खिलाड़ियों को नेशनल लेवल पर पंहुचा सकें।
Surbhi Upadhyay Surbhi पैसों के पेड़ को लेकर काफी क्रेजी हैं और परिवार की मदद से एनिमल शेड बनवाना चाहती हैं।
Sonika Jain आमिर खान के साथ विज्ञापन में नज़र आ चुकी, और Miss Udaipur, Miss Mewar, Femina Miss India में पार्टिसिपेट कर चुकी Sonika Jain एनिमल ऐड का काम करना चाहतीं है।
Nisha Singh Shaktawat Nisha को अपनी सिस्टर को नेशनल प्रतियोगिता में भेजना है।
Priyanka Lohar टेकरी निवासी Priyanka को अपने गांव में घर बनवाना है और कुछ पैसों से वह अपनी पेंटिंग को इम्प्रूव करना चाहती है।
Tara Janwa Tara अपने पिताजी का अपने गाँव में नाम रौशन करना चाहतीं हैं।
Milan Kunwar Shaktawat पढ़ाई कर रहे Milan अच्छे सिंगर हैं और अपने परिवार को प्रूव करना चाहते हैं कि वो कुछ अलग कर सकते हैं।
Rimjhim Sharma Rimjhim को खुद के लिए शॉपिंग करना है और फैशन डिज़ाइनिंग कोर्स की फीस भी वह इन्हीं पैसों से देंगी।
Khushbu Nayak Khushbu अपने पापा को मोटरसाइकिल दिलाना चाहतीं हैं।
Nutan Sengar Nutan की सोच और सपने दोनों बड़े हैं; वह विदेश जाकर इंडियन डांस कल्चर प्रमोट करना चाहती हैi
Jenya Singh Jenya अपने दोस्त की माता जी का किडनी ट्रांसप्लांट का इलाज करवाना चाहती हैं।
Deepika Lodhi हिरण मगरी की रहने वाली Deepika गर्ल पावर को प्रमोट करना चाहती है।
Mrs Ankita Soni Zee marudhara Nach le show में पार्टिसिपेट कर चुकी Ankita Soni अपने पति की मदद करना चाहती हैं।
Reena Jain Reena ऋषिकेश में होने वाले 200 घंटों की ‘योग टीचर ट्रेनिगं’ लेना चाहती हैं।

paiso ka ped MY FM

इस साल विशाल गवारिया ने अपने जुनून से 72 घंटों की यह जंग जीती। गुरुवार शाम 7 बजे शुरू हुई 72 घंटों की जंग पर आखिरकार रविवार शाम 7 बजे के बाद विराम लगा जब  94.3 MY FM को रेडियो कि दुनिया के फर्स्ट रियलिटी शो यानी पैसों का पेड़ का विजेता मिला। अंतिम क्षणों में जब फाइनल दो प्रतिभागियों को उनका फाइनल मूव होल्ड करने के लिए दिया गया, तब आखरी वक्त तक दिल की धड़कन थामे दोनों प्रतिभागी किसी भी स्थिति में हार स्वीकार करने को तैयार नहीं थे, और Lakecity Mall उस वक़्त Udaipur की जनता से खचाखच भरा था। आख़िरी टास्क मैं विशाल ओर सोनिका के बीच कॉम्पिटिशन हुआ। अंत में दूसरे स्थान पर रहने वाली सोनिका का फ़ोकस हिला और इस तरह winner बने शोभागपुरा के रहने वाले विशाल गवारिया।

Paiso ka ped winners

paiso ka ped MY FM

विशाल गवारिया ने पूरे 2 लाख रुपये जीत कर पैसों का पेड़-2 अपने नाम कर लिया! दूसरे स्थान पर रही सोनिका जैन को नाहर एलेक्ट्रोनिक की ओर से वॉशिंग मशीन दी गई। ज्ञात हे कि सोनिका ने अपना पुरस्कार सुरेश, जो कि पैसों का पेड़ के अन्य प्रतिभागी रहे,उन्को भेंट कर दी, जो अपनी स्पोर्ट्स Academy खोलना चाहते हैं। तीसरे स्थान पर रहे भरत कालरा को इंडीयन ऑयल कि तरफ से 5000 का फ्युल वाउचर दिया गया।

इस मौके पर सांसद अर्जुन लाल मीणा ने प्रतिभागियों का हौंसला बढ़ाते हुए, अपना खुद का किस्सा बताया और कहा की “एक बार उन्हें संसद में जाने से एक गार्ड ने रोका था तब उन्होने अपनी मेहनत से वहाँ का सफ़र तय करना चुना था”।

सभी विजेताओं को  94.3 माय एफएम और UdaipurBlog की ओर से हार्दिक बधाई!

 

 

Categories
Festivals

Krishna Janmashtmi 2019: Mewar’s way of Celebration

Krishna

“नन्द के आनंद भयो, जय कन्हैया लाल की..!!”

“मुरली मनोहर श्री कृष्ण जी की जय..!!!”

With wide cultural diversity, religions, languages, and beliefs, we say India is not merely a country but a beautiful art piece blended with vibrant colours. In India, every other day is an event or a festival. One such festival is Krishna Janmashtmi, which is celebrated as birth anniversary of Lord Krishna and is observed with great vehemence. According to Hindu Mythology, Lord Krishna was born on the 8th day of Krishna paksha (called Ashtami) of Shravan month which usually falls in the months of August-September.

Krishna Janmashtmi

The story of Krishna is deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of India and the people of this land revere him as divine. Lord Krishna is considered to be the eighth incarnation (avatar) of Lord Vishnu who took birth in a human embodiment to end all the evils and injustices. Krishna was the eighth son of king Vasudeva and Devaki and was born in prison, since his parents were captured and imprisoned by his uncle, Kansa. When Kansa identified that his sister Devaki’s child Krishna would become the cause of his death, he wanted to kill him to eliminate the root cause. Hence, after his birth, he was secretly sent to Nanda and Yashoda who then brought him up as their child.

Birth of Krishna

Krishna is known for his mischievousness, and since his childhood, he was very fond of Makkhan (Butter). Ancient Hindu tales reveal that he used to steal butter from his neighbour’s place and thus also called with the name “Makhan Chor”. To commemorate the birth of Shri Krishna this festival is also recognized as Dahi Handi Parv. During Janmashtmi a Matki Phod event is held at places wherever it is celebrated; in which a group of individuals build a human pyramid to reach the matki (earthen pot) which is hung at a certain height. In India, it is celebrated zealously in Mathura and Vrindavan, the birthplace of Krishna and in the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and northeastern states of Assam and Manipur.

Makhan Chor

In Mewar region, Vaishnavas consider it as the most important religious festival because it marks the victory of good over evil. In Udaipur, the festival is celebrated in a way that showcases the typical Mewari culture. Several cultural activities are performed in different regions of Udaipur, but the most prominent and renowned one is held at Jagdish Chowk. The Dahi Handi event at Jagdish Temple is the biggest and renowned not only among locals but also visitors. Since Udaipur is a famous tourist destination many foreigners also love to attend this fest and witness this phenomenal event.

Dahi handi at jagdish chowk

Dahi Handi Event

Dahi Handi Event

In Mewar region, people usually keep fast and open it the next day or after midnight because Krishna was born at midnight. Devotees believe that Krishna will be born at midnight and thus they should eat only after his birth. In India, you can’t say it’s a festival unless special sweets are prepared, and Chappan Bhog is one for which Krishna Janmashtmi is famous for. ‘Chappan Bhog’ is a cluster of 56 dishes which is offered to God on the following day, which is known as ‘Nanda Utsav.’ After the offering, the food or Prasad is then distributed and shared among devotees so they can end their fast. Lord Krishna is also known as ‘Makhan Chor’ or “Laddu Gopal” or “Baal Gopal” and called with numerous other names. Since he was very fond of butter and milk, the Bhog mainly include dishes of milk like Makhan mishri (milk cake), rabri, rasgulla, murabba, saag, khichdi, milk, dry fruits, etc.

Chappan Bhog

Idols of Lord Krishna is adorned with news clothes and ornaments. The idol is placed in a swing called “Jhulaa,” which is also a part of the ritual. Then it is placed in a cradle to symbolize his birth. Women also draw tiny footprints walking towards their house, as a symbol for Krishna’s journey into their homes.

The bustling crowd at Jagdish Chowk, the colorful attires, the chants of “Haathi Godaa Palki Jai Kanhaiya Laal Ki”, the sweets made of milk and cream, pink-colored Gulal in the air, everything you see around is so enticing that one could easily forget the troubles of life and embrace the festive vibes with both arms open.

  

Udaipurblog wishes a very happy and joyous Krishna Janmashtmi to all its readers!!!

जय श्री कृष्णा..!!!  

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News

40 Day Long Gavri Fest begins with the onset of Monsoon in Udaipur

Gavri Festival Udaipur

Once again, Gavri, the famous folk dance-drama fest has commenced with the advent of monsoon in Udaipur. A 40 day long festival of the Bheel tribe initiated from 16th August. The folk dance includes people from all ages starting from 8 to 80’s, who will dance and play to please the Goddess. During the Gavri festival, the Bheel community usually performs invocation rituals, which are conducted in Shravan month of hindu calendar; and thus the fest mostly falls in the months of August-September.

It may be noted that during the 40-day Gavari season not only the players avoid alcohol, meat and sex but also avoid wearing shoes, beds, bathing, and eating greens (which they believe might harm insects).  Also, some of the tribes observe fast on the “paancham” and “saatam” while the tribes of Bedla region have pledged to fast for the entire 40 days of celebrations. The Gavri troupes will uncross several regions while giving performances at different T-points of the town.

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Events

For those who missed Udaipur Food Drive season 3: Everything you want to know

Udaipur Blog Food Drive 2019

“There is no sincere love than the love of food.”  – George Bernard Shaw

Most people cherish monsoons because of its rain and the heart-pleasing weather, while there are others, like me who crave, crave and just crave for food. UdaipurBlog knowing this, successfully conducted the most awaited event Udaipur Food Drive 2019, which was its 3rd edition. Also, UdaipurBlog which has always nurtured innovative ideas to bring people together, be it ULF (Udaipur light festival), UBPhotowalk, fashion contest, or any other event, the central idea has remained the same for years – let’s connect.

Udaipur Blog

 Food Drive (“food+drive”) is one such amazing event which provides a platform for food enthusiasts to connect & share their experiences, amazing food journeys, and explore the unexplored world of flavors.

Let’s know how this started- 

It was a Saturday evening, and the Udaipur folks were in a weekend mood. The sun was playing hide and seek with clouds, while the drizzling rain was in no mood to stop even for a while, whereas the clouds were resting on every big and small hill around Udaipur to make people come out of their houses and get selfies with them. This was the time when team UdaipurBlog was uniting people from all spheres of life to share a common table and feast on toothsome food at different corners of the town.

Our first stop was Twist Bar and Lounge. This spectacular place is located near Shobhagpura circle and offers the perfect ambience for anyone looking to hang out with friends and family. In no time, the place was occupied with more than 40 food lovers, all excited and ready to eat. Soon the staff at Twist emerged with the food which not only tasted heavenly but also looked spectacular. Everywhere you could see was people eagerly waiting to grab a quick bite.

Twist Bar & Lounge

Foodies

Next we drove to The Bungalow, a multi-cuisine restaurant located near Sukhadia Circle. The much-needed warmth due to the rainy season was provided, not only by the place’s ambiance but also the service and humbleness of the staff. Upon arrival, we were greeted with a welcome drink. After a small introduction about the place and its history, the food was served. The fusion of different cuisines definitely caught our attention but the Veg Pad Thai Noodles, in particular, stole our hearts.  

Food at The Bungalow

Indian-Continental food

The Bungalow Udaipur

It’s said that ‘all is well that ends well’, and our last destination did just that. Panna Vilas Rooftop Restaurant  is a beautiful property that offers a mesmerizing view of Lake Fateh Sagar. The alluring ambience of the place was complemented with the flavorful food that was served. The Chicken Banjara, which they say is the queen of their menu, took the limelight. The tandoori aroma was enough to trigger the mood and taste buds of all foodies. No doubt, the food was sumptuous together with the atmosphere it offered.

When the weather is on its full charm and the soul is filled with so many flavors, how could one forget to seize the moment? All the attendees flooded their phones and cameras with hundreds and thousands of selfies and images of food, beautiful faces in binging mood and of course the picturesque views. Here are some of the memories compiled for you:

Food Craving

Food at Twist restaurant

Food and view

Foodies

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News

Get your driving licence and vehicle registration letter (RC) at your Doorstep

postal delivery

According to recent directives issued by the Government, the transport department will be dispatching driving licences and vehicle registration certificates directly at the applicant’s postal address. Just like passports, people now are no more required to visit the transport office a multiple number of times to collect their documents.

The increasing intervention of middle-men and agents create hassles, and as such, the step has been taken to avoid troubles faced by consumers. The directives were issued on 1st of August, following which the Udaipur Transport Department has enforced the same from 7th August Wednesday.

Applicants are required to give the exact postal address for the delivery of their certificates. If the address is found to be incorrect or incomplete, the post will return to the RTO office.

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News

Rajasthan Government won the battle of possession of historic Udaipur House in New Delhi

Udaipur House Delhi

Rajasthan government’s long-awaited battle for the possession of historic Udaipur House in New Delhi has come to rest with the recent directives of Supreme Court. The property is situated near the Tees Hazari court at Civil Lines in Delhi. The Historic building was built before Independence by the then ruling Maharana of Mewar, which was occupied by Delhi government post-independence.

The majestic building is sprawling over 12000 meters of land at a prime location of Delhi, whose current worth is evaluated around 1500 crore. Before Independence, when Luteyn’s  Delhi was being designed, the property was built by Udaipur’s Royal family. That time the British asked the Maharana of Udaipur to build a mansion in Delhi like other princely houses.

The Udaipur House, Delhi

Post-independence Delhi government was granted the possession only for use. However, in 2010, Ashok Gehlot, the then Chief Minister of Rajasthan held talks with Delhi government to hand over the property back to Rajasthan, but the plea was declined. Following which the government took the issue to Supreme Court.

Recently Supreme Court issued directives to both the governments to settle the issue. After which a meeting among the representatives from Rajasthan and Delhi was held, where it was decided to hand over the property to Rajasthan government.

 

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Festivals

Hariyali Amavasya Mela 2019: Udaipur’s way of welcoming Monsoon

Hariyali Amavasya Mela 2019

If you have ever heard about Udaipur, its culture and traditions, there are hardly any chances you haven’t heard about the Mela (fair) of Hariyali Amavasya. Hariyali means greenery while Amavasya refers to the no-moon day as per Hindi terminology. It is a festival to rejoice rains due to which the earth gets covered with a blanket of greenery. Every year this festival is celebrated with high energy and enthusiasm in the Mewar region. There are many rituals associated with this fest, and people in Northern states of India celebrates this with great fervor.

Hariyali Amavasya Mela 2019
Credits: Siddarth Nagar

 

As it is a known fact that rains are considered as blessings of God and to show gratitude towards nature and its blessings, people celebrate Hariyali Amavasya to welcome the onset of monsoon. Like Rajasthan it is also celebrated in other Northern states of India such as Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and Maharashtra. In Maharashtra it is celebrated as ‘Gatari Amavasya’, in Andhra Pradesh as ‘Chukkala Amavasya’ and in Orissa it is known as ‘Chitalagi Amavasya’. As with the names, the rituals and traditions vary in different parts of the country, but the spirit of celebrations remains same.

Hariyali Amavasya Mela 2019
Credits: Siddarth Nagar

Being an Udaipurite I still remember, how eagerly as kids we used to wait for this day. The chief thing that attracted us the most about this festival was the Mela (fair) and which still is. We eagerly used to wait for this day which was marked by a school holiday and it was customary to visit the fair to enjoy rides and food with family. Everywhere you could see, are the vibrant colors, the bustling crowd and the vendors shouting out loud. While the women folks mainly loved to shop at the fair stalls, however, we as kids would make it sure not to miss out any of the rides and food was ofcourse our motto of life. The interesting part is, still after so many years nothing has really changed except the climatic changes.

 

Hariyali Amavasya Mela 2019
Credits: Siddarth Nagar

Let’s know some interesting facts about this Mela:

  • It is believed that the first Hariyali Amavasya Mela was set up by Maharana Fateh Singh, to celebrate the completion of a reservoir near Dewali pond, which eventually became a tradition and is still continuing.
  • Hariyali Amavasya is a two day celebration where the last day is usually reserved for women.
  • Like any other festival, this festive fair is not confined to a particular religion but gathers people from all the religion, class and castes which is certainly a mark of cultural integration.
  • The famous dish of Rabdi-Malpua is the showstopper of this mela. Most people just visit to palate the renowned dish which is also considered as a monsoon cuisine by locals.
  • Public places such as Moti Magri, Saheliyon ki Baari etc which usually have an entrance fee during other days of the year are kept free for these two days.
  • The Mela is more of interest to the tribals and rural crowd near Udaipur region, who comes up in huge crowd in traditional costumes and jewelry.
  • Also elderly folks of this region have a strong belief, that it will definitely rain on the day of Hariyali Amavasya.
  • The wooden sword wrapped with colorful papers, a colorful feathered hat and small trumpets of paper called Poopadi in native language are the souvenirs which validate your presence at Mela.
  • Women collectively pray for good rainfall and bountiful harvest.
  • Green is the color of the day and ladies in the Mewar region wear green which represent their love for nature.
  • Several schools and social groups & organizations celebrate it a day before, organizing cultural programs.
  • It is considered auspicious to plant a sapling on this day which is also having religious significance as per Hindu community.

This year Hariyali Amavasya will be observed on 1st of August, which will also be a collector declared holiday for schools, colleges and all government organizations. Observing the increasing popularity of this festival among domestic and international tourists,efforts are also made by Municipal Corporation of Udaipur to have this historic fair registered in the Guinness Book of World Records.

Hariyali Amavasya Mela 2019
Credits: Siddarth Nagar

While the festival is the time to rejuvenate and rejoice, there is an increasing threat as well from past few year, about depleting rainfall and vanishing forests in the Aravali region. As true Udaipurites lets join hands to protect our environment and trees so that our future generations could also enjoy this historic Mela.

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News

Kargil Vijay Divas: India celebrating 20th Anniversary of War Victory

Operation Vijay

Once said by the former Indian President Dr A.P.J Abdul Kalam “A war is never a lasting solution for any problem”, and as such India is still dealing with the Kashmir Issue. The Kargil war was one of the few conventional wars between the two nuclear states. The war ended on 26th July 1999, with the success of Operation Vijay and this year marks the 20th anniversary of Kargil’s victory.

kargil war 1999

On this day, India successfully took command of the high outposts which had been lost to Pakistani intruders. The war lasted for 60 days, causing loss of so many lives on both the sides. Since then, 26 July is observed as the “Kargil Vijay Diwas”, named after the victory of Operation Vijay, in honor of the Kargil War’s Heroes. This day is commended in the Kargil – Dras division and the national capital New Delhi, where the Prime Minister of India, pays homage to the troopers at Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate every year. Celebrations are also conducted everywhere throughout the nation to commemorate the contribution of the Armed forces.

History of Kashmir

1747 kashmir war

During independence, in 1947, Kashmir was a princely state under the rulership of Maharaja Hari Singh. However, Kashmir always wanted to establish its independent identity. After independence, India has fought three wars against Pakistan over the same issue. The attack of October 1947 completely changed the scenario. The war of 1947 ended with the partition of Jammu and Kashmir between India and Pakistan under a 1949 United Nations-brokered ceasefire.

The two other subsequent wars occurred in 1965 and 1971. During 1990s, tensions and conflict escalated due to separatist activities in Kashmir, some of which were supported by Pakistan. This further was followed by infiltrations by mujahideen’s (separatists), into territory on the Indian side of the line of control (LOC). In response to this the Government of India initiated Operation Vijay, with a mobilization of 200,000 Indian troops. Finally, the war came to an official end on July 26, 1999, thus marking it as Kargil Vijay Diwas. However, 527 soldiers from Indian Armed Forces sacrificed their lives during the Kargil war.

Kargil Vijay Divas 2019

 

The 20th anniversary of the victory of Operation Vijay will be celebrated with a theme “Remember, Rejoice and Renew”.  The Army Official said that – “We remember our heroes by revisiting their sacrifices which instills pride and respect. We rejoice by celebrating the victory in Kargil and renew our resolution to safeguard the honor of the tricolor”.

kargil war memorial

National Capital, Delhi Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lights the “Triumph Flame” from the National War Memorial which crosses through the 11 urban areas and towns and lastly ends at Dras where the fire will converge with the “Endless Flame” at Kargil War Memorial”.

kargil war memorial

President Ram Nath Kovind, Army Chief General Bipin Rawat as well as the head of Indian Navy and Indian Air Force will be available in the Kargil-Dras division to recieve the triumph fire and for the wreath laying function. A fly-past by the Indian Air Force is likewise will be held during the service.

Not every Indian can fight war, it is only some heroes who can go any limits to protect the Nation and its pride. Lets remember the sacrifice of Indian Soldiers and contribute in our own way for the maintain the integrity of our Nation.