Categories
News

दुनिया के बेहतरीन शहरों में से उदयपुर 10वें नंबर पर

शहर के लिए यह काफी सुखद खबर होगी कि उदयपुर शहर को पूरे भारत के बेहतरीन शहरों में शामिल किया गया है। शहर ने बेहतरीन शहरों की सूची में शामिल होकर उदयपुर का नाम रोशन किया है। ट्रेवल मैगजीन “ट्रेवल एंड लेजर रीडर्स” ने दुनिया के 10 शहरों में उदयपुर को 10वीं रैंक दी है।

पूरे भारत में इस लिस्ट में केवल दो ही शहरों को चुना गया है, एक उदयपुर तो दूसरा जयपुर को। जयपुर शहर को 8वीं  रैंक दी गई है। इससे पहले भी उदयपुर ने कई बार बेस्ट जगहों में शहर का नाम रोशन किया है। उदयपुर की शांत झीले, पर्वत पहाड़, हेरिटेज, खानपान लोगों को अपनी तरफ आकर्षित कर ही लेता है। इस से पहले भी एशिया महाद्वीप में घुमनें के लिए सबसे बेहतरीन शहरों में उदयपुर का नाम था। 

पर्यटन विभाग कि उपनिदेशक शिखा सक्सेना का कहना है कि ट्रेवल मैगजीन के सर्वे में उदयपुर को फिर से चुना गया है। इस बार टॉप टेन में 10 जगह बनाई है। इसका श्रेय टूरिज्म से जुड़े हुए हर व्यक्ति को जाता है। उदयपुर की मेहमान नवाजी ही ऐसी है कि दुनिया का हर आदमी यहां खिंचा चला आता है। इन तमगों से इस साल पर्यटन सीजन अच्छा रहने की उम्मीद है। 

10 रैंकों की सूची इस प्रकार है-

  • ओक्साका,मेक्सिको
  • सैन मिगुएल, मेक्सिको 
  • उबुद, इंडोनेशिया 
  • फ्लोरेंस, इटली 
  • इस्तांबुल, तुर्की 
  • मेक्सिको सिटी, मेक्सिको 
  • चियांग माई, थाईलैंड 
  • जयपुर, भारत
  • ओसाका, जापान 
  • उदयपुर, भारत    

उदयपुर का नाम और भी कई सारी जगहों में शामिल है-

  • टूर एंड ट्रेवल कम्पनी ट्रेवल ट्राइंगल ने देश के बेस्ट सोलो फीमेल ट्रेवेल डेस्टिनेशन में उदयपुर को प्रदेश में सबसे सुरक्षित माना है।
  • ट्रेवेल एन्ड लेजर ने दुनिया के 20 शानदार शहरों में उदयपुर को दूसरा और जयपुर को 17वां स्थान दिया है।
  • अंतर्राष्ट्रीय वेडिंग प्लानिंग कंपनी दी नॉट ने यूनिक वेडिंग डेस्टिनेशन के लिए 11 देशों की सूचीं में भारत से केवल उदयपुर को चुना । 
  • इंटर माइल्स ने बेहतरीन 10 देशों में उदयपुर को 5वां सुन्दर शहर बताया। 
  • प्लेनेट डी की ट्रेवल लिस्ट दीं “16 मोस्ट सिटीज ऑन अर्थ” में उदयपुर को चौथा स्थान दिया गया। 
  • एमएसएन की लिस्ट में पूरी दुनिया के बेहतरीन 60 डेस्टिनेशन में भारत से एकमात्र उदयपुर को 11वां स्थान दिया। 
  • नेशनल जियोग्राफी व दी वॉल स्ट्रीट जर्नल ने 21 दिन की यात्रा में दुनिया के 8 देशों में से भारत से उदयपुर को चुना।
Categories
Events

Witness the most epic Cricket Rivalries on the Biggest Screens in Udaipur | Ind vs Pak

Cricket, the most entertaining thing that keeps the heartbeat of this 1.3 Billion strong nation alive, is followed as a religion in India. It is not just a sport for the 1.3 billion Indians of the country, it’s an emotion. The gentleman’s game is the most popular sport in this country and witnesses an unmatched fan following, be it, for the teams or any cricketer in particular. Some of them are not just players, they have biopics made after them as well.

It is the same time of the year again where the cricket fans all across the country just cannot take their eyes off from phones and TV screens.

Yes! ‘ICC Cricket World Cup’ is here.

After the super-exciting finish of IPL season, we all were eagerly waiting for the world cup. Who wouldn’t like to sit and watch our favorite players smash some big sixes and crush the rival team while sitting on a couch? Be it workspaces, classrooms, or any other institution, nobody can ever dream to miss even a single moment of the craziness that spreads during the world cup.

The cherry on the cake for the Indians is, tomorrow, i.e on 16th June 2019, we will be witnessing the most epic and the biggest rivalry in the Cricket history of all time. Yes, you guessed it right, it’s…

‘INDIA vs PAKISTAN’

With emotions flowing hot in the veins, watching this epic rivalry only gets better when you have a whole gang of people cheering for your favorite team, binging on delectable food and refreshing drinks! Isn’t it?

So here, we have compiled a list of places where you can catch this super-emotional extravaganza live on the big screen with your ‘Cricket-Bhakt’ gang.

  • The Artist House: The Artist House Udaipur is set in a striking 80-year-old theatre building. The house offers thematic menu drawing from seasonal and global trends of cocktails and scrumptious food. The in-house mixologists experiment with flavors quintessential to the city which makes the place perfect to come and cheer their favorite team this ICC Cricket World Cup.

Location: Near Ashoka Cinema, Thakre Baba Colony, Surajpole, Nada Khada, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001

Contact: 073573 68111/ 073573 68222

 

  • Twist Family Lounge & Bar: A place where people meet to celebrate some unforgettable moments especially the ones from the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup in a twisted manner. Situated in the heart of the city and quoted truly as Udaipur’s one of the most exquisite hangout spot.

Special Offer: Buy beer bucket consisting premium brands like Bira, Kingfisher Ultra, Heineken, Corona and get another bucket of beer at flat 30% off.

Location: Connaught Place, Near Shobhagpura Circle, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001

Contact:  083062 31050

 

Twist Family Lounge and Bar
  • Enigma Restaurant and Lounge: Enigma Restaurant and Lounge have literally got everything a cricket fanatic is looking for. From fine dining to super delicious food to a big screen, Enigma has it all.

Special Offer: Bring your father and get flat 15% discount on all bills on the live screening on Father’s day.

Location: 10 / 11 Haridas Ji Ki Magri, Malla Talai, Udaipur

Contact: 097844 49554

Enigma Restaurant and Lounge
  • Sun N Moon Restaurant and Cafe: Be it their wacky style of serving food or the simple presentation, that’s quite lit, you are in for an unforgettable treat if you want to watch live matches on a giant screen. Avail discounts and great deals during the 2019 World Cup.

Special Offer: 15% off on food bills up to Rs.1500

20% off on food bills up to Rs.2000

Location: Sun N Moon, Above hotel Udai Niwas, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001

Contact: 090010 06762

Sun N Moon Restaurant and Cafe
  • AIR Bar & Kitchen: A sprawling rooftop offering a majestic view of the mighty Monsoon Palace is equipped with a fully stocked bar, a 100 ft long live kitchen, a covered discotheque, a specialty community cooking pad and an entertainment zone with live screening, pool table, speed hockey, foosball. Fancy cocktails and classic drinks with a chic food menu from the streets across the world is a perfect companion to cheer for your favorite team this Cricket World Cup.

Special Offer: Cheer for India with your friends & family at AIR, Udaipur’s only rooftop pub & lounge in a five-star resort. Enjoy Beer Bucket with 5 pints @799 or Nonstop Premium drinks at a special rate of @1099 per person, Selected Snacks @199 and get a flat 20% discount on World Cup Special food menu.

Location: JüSTA Sajjangarh resort & spa, Near Sajjangarh Biological park entrance, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001

Contact: 099995 38959

AIR Bar & Kitchen
  • Bluemoon Kinaraz: Enjoy the biggest cricket rivalries of this world cup with the best view of the magnanimous City Palace from lakeside with delicious food, amazing dinner arrangements.

Location: 6, Panch Dewari Marg, Outside Chandpole, Hanuman Ghat, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001

Contact: 094607 26436

Bluemoon Kinaraz
  • Rootage Restaurant And Bar Lounge: With exclusive Interiors and very attractive menu, the Restaurant is located in the heart of the City. With different types of dining spaces which offer cluster spaces, isolated units of different typologies and Dance floor at the center which make Rootage Udaipur’s Biggest Restro Lounge a major attraction for local people and tourist to watch a super-exciting cricket match on big-screen.

Special Offer: Buy 2 get one drink and a dessert free till 7 pm.

Location: Ground Floor, Ashoka Cinema Premises, Surajpole, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001

Contact 072300 19831

Rootage Restaurant And Bar Lounge
  • Blu Feather Hotel & Spa: Inspired by the elegant and magnificent peacock, Blu feather is designed to host visitors at Udaipur with the utmost care, comfort, and convenience. Love is the key ingredient for all recipes and care is the only formula to manage guests which makes the place the best for any cricket match.

Special Offer: 1 + 1 on Whiskey for 16th June,19

Location: 4, Pratap Nagar Rd, Bhuwana Sukher By Pass, Udaipur 313001

Contact: 091166 99791

Blu Feather Hotel & Spa
  • La favela by Aqua Lounge: A restaurant where you can be yourself without pretending anything. Just unculture yourself to break the rules. Get tipsy to the beats of fun, chill and cheer your favorite team over delectable food and refreshing drinks.

Location: Plot No.1, Cross Way Building, 3rd floor, Near Celebration Mall, Bhuwana, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001

Contact: 096496 86364

La Favela
  • Level 5 Rooftop Bistro: One of the best places to go if you want to watch live sports screening. Enjoy delicious food with rejuvenating drinks and more with your favorite game screened live for you.

Location: 57/2, New Fatehpura, Panchwati, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001

Contact: 082335 00000

Level 5
  • The Balcony: “THE BALCONY” was made with a vision of Giving City of Udaipur a Gourmet Experience with a Casual Environment & hangout Place. The place is open for all age group. A Causal Diner is designed to enchant the audience. The rustic-looking, fashionable eatery, with Teal Colors makes the place most suitable to enjoy a super-exciting cricket match.

Location: Shop No.1, 1st Floor Hazareshwar Colony, Opp Hanuman temple, Court Chouraha, Udaipur, 313001

Contact: 091166 29569

The Balcony

Let’s support the ‘Men In Blue’ to bring the Cup back home.

#BleedBlue 

These are some of the major places screening ICC Cricket World Cup matches along with a really amazing variety of food and refreshing drinks.

Share with us, your favorite Cricket World Cup memories in the comments section below.

Categories
News

Swachh Sarvekshan 2019- Will Udaipur be able to make it to top 50 this year?

Swachh Sarvekshan has started on 4th Jan 2019 and will conclude on 31st Jan 2019. This time, the Udaipur Municipal Corporation is aiming to reach among the top 50 cleanest cities of India. There is a great level of enthusiasm in the municipal corporation of the state and is desperate to get a better rank than the previous rank.

Last year in 2018, Udaipur scored:

  • 546/1400 in Service Level,
  • 940/1200 in Direct Observation,
  • 1118/1400 in Citizen Feedback and Swachhata App and
  • An overall score of 2623 out of 4000.

This score got Udaipur 85th rank in the total ranking of 100 ULBs (urban local bodies) on the basis of the total score. Indore was the cleanliest city in the 2018 Swachh Sarvekshan.

Source: swachhsurvekshan2019.org

This year there are many changes regarding the Swachh Sarvekshan 2019. In such a situation, Udaipur has to work hard to get a better ranking than the year 2018. The municipal corporation has completed the first step of the verification of the documents, but the major test awaits now.

Let’s have a look at the numbers:

Udaipur Swachhata app at a glance: 

  • Total registration number: 11975
  • Score 80
  • Active Users 0.3 only

This year the Swachh Sarvekshan 2019 will be assessed on the following:

  • Certification
  • Direct Observation
  • Service Level Progress
  • Citizen Feedback
  • Sustainable Sanitation
  • Solid Waste Management

And many more!

The performance components will be judged out of 5000 marks and Service Level Progress would be out of 1250 marks.

If you wish to contribute to the Swachh Sarvekshan 2019 for Udaipur, you can visit the Citizen Feedback section, Here

You can also visit: https://swachhsurvekshan2019.org/


If you like this piece of information, then mention your thoughts in the comments section below. If you want to add anything to this information or have any suggestion, drop a mail at fouzia@udaipurblog.com

I would be glad to hear from you!

Categories
Food

14 Places To Have The Best Pani Puri in Udaipur

When we think of eating Indian street food, Pani Puri is the first thing that comes to our mind and within no time does it make our mouths salivate! Pani Puri is the signature Indian chowpaty dish and the most loved delicacy in almost every part of the country. It is known by various names like Puchka, Pani Patashe, Gol Gappe, Phulki, Patashi, etc. in different parts of the country.

Go to any place and there’s one thing you are surely gonna find; these palatable deep fried little bowls made of wheat or semolina (suji), filled with all kinds of crunchy mouth-watering fillings and tangy sauces that leave a lasting flavor on your taste-buds. Pani Puri is more like an addiction for Indians and every street food sojourn in incomplete without gulping down at least one pani puri. Well, one is obviously never enough!

The taste and flavors of Pani Puri vary from region to region and yet they never fail to hypnotize the taste-buds of each one of us. Udaipurites have a crazy inclination towards pani puri and almost every major street in the city has dozens of pani puri sellers lined-up to satisfy your desi-food cravings.

Although it seems like a Herculean task to mention each and every pani puri seller of the city, we still tried our best and made note of some of the best ones in town. Here’s a list:

1. Shreenath Chaat Center

Craving Pani Puri? Here's a list of some places to go to

One of the most famous pani puri vendors in town. They serve a lip-smacking variety of street food and you can always find a lot of people binging on pani puris here.

Location: Shakti Nagar corner, Ashok Nagar Main Road, in front of Shree Ambe Mata Mandir

Varieties served: Bhel Puri, Dahi Puri, Chole Tikiya, Pani Puri

2. Chotu Bhai Chaat Wala

Craving Pani Puri? Here's a list of some places to go to

Another famous stall at the Sukhadia Circle chowpaty serving delectable varieties. One of the most popular choice for residents as well as tourists for eating pani puri.

Location: Sukhadia Circle Chowpaty

Varieties served: Bhel Puri, Dahi Puri, Chole Tikiya, Pani Puri, Chinese food items

3. Bhole Chaat and Fast Food

Craving Pani Puri? Here's a list of some places to go to

Another prominent pani puri seller at Sukhadia Circle also famous for South Indian food and other varieties.

Location: Sukhadia Circle Chowpaty

Varieties served: Bhel Puri, Dahi Puri, Chole Tikiya, Pani Puri, South Indian food items

4. Shree G Gujarat Pani Puri

Craving Pani Puri? Here's a list of some places to go to

A one-of-its-kind pani puri stall serving six different types of ‘pani’ along with deliciously filled crunchy puris.

Location: Sukhadia Circle, Opp. Big Bazaar

Varieties served: Pani Puri with 6 different types of pani

5. Sawariya Chaat Center

Craving Pani Puri? Here's a list of some places to go to

Location: Ashok Nagar Main Road, Outside T.R.I

Varieties served: Bhel Puri, Sev Puri, Aloo Tikki, Pani Puri

6. Purnima Chaat

Craving Pani Puri? Here's a list of some places to go to

 

Location: Bapu Bazar Main Road, in front of Peter England Showroom

Varieties served: Chole Tikiya, Pani Puri, Dahi Puri, Chowmein, Paneer Chilly, Pav Bhaji, etc.

7. Bhawani Chaat Corner

Craving Pani Puri? Here's a list of some places to go to

Location: Bapu Bazar Main Road, Near Brand Corner

Varieties served: Bhel Puri, Sev Puri, Aloo Tikki, Pani Puri

8. Jodhpur Mishthan Bhandar

Craving Pani Puri? Here's a list of some places to go to

Location: Opp. Town Hall, Udaipur

Varieties served: Bhel Puri, Sev Puri, Chole Tikki, Pani Puri

9. Shri Santosh Chaat Corner

Craving Pani Puri? Here's a list of some places to go to

Location: RMV road, Gulab Baagh

Varieties served: Bhel Puri, Chole Tikiya, Pani Puri

10. Ganesh Chaat Center

Craving Pani Puri? Here's a list of some places to go to

Location: Math Road, Bhopalpura

Varieties served: Dahi Puri, Aloo Tikki, Pani Puri

11. Payal Chaat Center

Craving Pani Puri? Here's a list of some places to go to

Location: Ahead of Ayad Puliya, Opp. A-One Sr. Sec. School

Varieties served: Bhel Puri, Dahi Puri, Aloo Tikki, Pani Puri, Pav Bhaji, Faluda

12. Sahu Chaat Center

Craving Pani Puri? Here's a list of some places to go to

Location: Shastri Circle, outside V-Mart

Varieties served: Bhel Puri, Sev Puri, Pani Puri

13. Radhika Chaat

Craving Pani Puri? Here's a list of some places to go to

Location: Ashwani Bazaar, in front of Hospital Gate

Varieties served: Sev Puri, Chole Tikiya, Pani Puri

14. Gokul Chaat Center

Craving Pani Puri? Here's a list of some places to go to

Location: Maldas Street, near Jain Temple

Varieties served: Dahi Puri, Aloo Tikki, Pani Puri

There are many other street-side vendors serving pani puri at every nook and corner of the city such as 100 ft. road, Durga Nursery road, etc.

How many of these have you tried yet?

Tell us about your experience in the comments below. I would love to hear from you.

Happy Eating!

Categories
Festivals

The Festivities of Sheetla Mata Ashtami

In Mewar, as in the other parts of the state, there are more festivals than the days in a week, ‘saat vaar aur nau tyohar’. No exception is the month of March that started with a bang with the festival of Holi is followed by Sheetla Saptmi or Asthami, Kesariyaji Mela, Navratri, Dashamata, Chetichand, Gangaur, Mahavir Jayanti, Good Friday and Easter.

Eight days after Holi is celebrated Sheel Ashtami. Earlier the festival was celebrated on Saptami. But later on, as Maharana Bheemsingh’s birthday fell on this day, the festival began to be celebrated on the next day. But people were free to choose any one day.

Sheetla Mata Ashtami

The legend of Sheetla Mata Ashtami

Maharana Sangramsingh built a temple of Sheetla Mata near Rang Niwas close to Samore Bagh. On Asthami, in the morning, the Maharana would go in a procession to the temple for ‘darshan’ of the goddess. A ‘darbar’ was held in Rang Niwas. Then he used to go Navlakha or Samore Bagh where there was a lot of singing and dancing. On that day a ‘dawat’ banquet, was organized by Rajya Pradhan or senior officials in honor of the Maharana. All the Sardars and Umraos were invited to this feast. Floral garlands were offered to all the ‘durbaris’. Then the Maharana returned to his palace. After the death of Idarwali Rajmata Chhoti Rathore in 1892, the tradition of going to the house of the Pradhan stopped. Once Maharan Sajjansingh went for the ‘darshan’ of Sheetla Devi dressed in ‘bhagwa’ color clothes. To this play on Ashtami, ‘bhog’ is sent to the temple of the goddess from the royal palace.

The beliefs and rituals of Sheetla Mata Ashtami

In earlier times chickenpox was a deadly disease that was the cause of the death a large number of people. This disease spread wildly during March and April when the season changed. To appease Sheetla Mata who is considered to be a form of Ma Bhagwati Durga, she is worshipped on this occasion. The tradition is that fresh food is not cooked on this day. On the previous day, a lot of dishes such as sweet rice, pakode, kadi, halwa, and rabdi are cooked and are eaten cold on this day.

In Udaipur, in the morning women clad in gorgeous dresses with ‘puja thalis’ in their hands and singing merrily reach the Sheetla Mandir near Rang Niwas in groups. They worship the goddess reverently and offer her milk, curd and the eatables they have prepared the previous day. The ‘Katha’ of the Mata is related. The surroundings have a ‘mela’ like scene.

It is believed that worship of Sheetla Mata results in happy married life. She is also believed to be the goddess of cleanliness. She is also worshipped as Pathwari Devi, who shows people the right path, both literally and figuratively.

The reason behind eating cold meals at Sheetla Mata Ashtami

The eating of cold food on the occasion has scientific reason also. The festival falls in the transition period of two seasons – winter and summer. In winter, bacteria do not flourish in food and it remains fresh for a longer time whereas in summer it starts rotting soon. So, it is advisable to eat only fresh food after this festival.

Categories
More

Do You Know What ‘Swachhata App’ Is? If Not Then You Must Read This!

The Government of India is making efforts to keep the Nation clean and free from litter. Hence for the same, 3 years back, it started a campaign called the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. Since the time of commencement of the campaign, the Govt. has taken major steps forward in keeping India clean.

One of the additions to the campaign is the Swachhata App.

What is Swachhata App?

The Swachhata App is an initiative of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan in association with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).  It is a 4th generation complaint redressal mobile and web platform. It is available on Play Store for Android and App Store for iOS.

This solution is for all the 4041 towns and cities of India.

How to use the Swachhta App?

All you need to do is click a picture of the garbage dump or any other problem and upload it to the App. Also, the citizens can upload the complaints with or without photographs as well and share them with other citizens on the Application and comment on the work done.

The complaint would be marked on the right side of the complaint as Open, On the Job, Rejected, etc. This shows the status of the complaint so you know whether your complaint is addressed or not.

Once a citizen has posted a picture, it will automatically get forwarded to the concerned municipal authority. All urban local bodies have been mapped to this app. Problems like overflowing dustbins, garbage dumps and sweeping have to be done within 12 hours of lodging of a complaint. If there is no water supply or electricity in public toilets or there is a blockage, it will have to be fixed within 12 hours. A dead animal lying on the road will have to be removed within 48 hours.

Issues covered under the Swachhata App:

  • Garbage dump
  • Garbage vehicle not arrived
  • Dustbins not cleaned
  • Sweeping not done
  • Dead animals
  • Public toilet(s) cleaning
  • Public toilet(s) blockage
  • No water supply in public toilet(s)
  • No electricity in public toilet(s)

One new feature added is that now you can also vote upon any complaint relevant to you. You will get regular updates on the status of the complaint in the form of a push notification with the ‘Resolved’ image uploaded by the assigned sanitary inspector/engineer. You can also reopen the complaint if you are not satisfied with the resolution of the complaint.

Also, you can edit or delete your complaint as well. You can use photos from your phone’s Photo Gallery to upload on the Swachhata App.

It is indeed a transparent and accountable system of grievance redressal.

How to Install the APP?

The App looks like this on the Android Play Store

You can visit their website for a detailed knowledge about Swacch City project at Swachh.City

Download it from App Store or Play Store under the name Swachhata App

Tell us how much would you rate the Swachhta App and also if you have been using it, tell us your reviews of the App.

Below are the images for your ease.

 

Do You Know What ‘Swachhata App’ Is? If Not Then You Must Read This! Do You Know What ‘Swachhata App’ Is? If Not Then You Must Read This! Do You Know What ‘Swachhata App’ Is? If Not Then You Must Read This! Do You Know What ‘Swachhata App’ Is? If Not Then You Must Read This! Do You Know What ‘Swachhata App’ Is? If Not Then You Must Read This! Do You Know What ‘Swachhata App’ Is? If Not Then You Must Read This! Do You Know What ‘Swachhata App’ Is? If Not Then You Must Read This! Do You Know What ‘Swachhata App’ Is? If Not Then You Must Read This! Do You Know What ‘Swachhata App’ Is? If Not Then You Must Read This!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Categories
People

Cyclists Touring India To Support Polio Eradication are in Udaipur, Know Why!

This duo, Pavan, and Bhagyashree are cycling across India to spread awareness about Polio. They are in Udaipur today and are quite grateful for their journey so far. I had a chance to have a conversation with Pavan. Their enthusiasm and zeal left me amazed. Have a read of my inspiring conversation with M.J. Pavan.

  1. Tell me about you and your mate; how did you come together to cycle across the country?

I am M.J.Pavan, a mechanical engineer from Bangalore. My cycling mate is Bhagyashree Sawant who is an MSc in Phycology. I have cycled from Delhi to Leh in 14 days covering 1400km and Bhagyashree has climbed Mount Everest twice up to 8000 meters.

Cyclists Touring India To Support Polio Eradication are in Udaipur, Know Why!
M.J. Pavan and Bhagyshree Sawant

We both are in the same Rotaract club that is the Rotaract club of Bangalore Orchards.  Since we both were into adventure sports we took up this expedition where we can think of using our expertise for a noble cause.

  1. When did you start this tour?

We started our tour on 2nd of October, from Palampur, Himachal Pradesh.

  1. Tell us about your journey so far?

Till now it’s been a great journey. We are meeting new people every day and it is a great opportunity for us to come across and know about different cultures in India. Since India is diverse in all aspects every day is a new experience for us.

  1. What made you opt for this?

Most of the people in India are not much aware of polio. If we all are healthy and free from polio today it is because of Rotary International which has worked selflessly to eradicate this disease from India hence we are carrying the public image of Rotary contribution in making India polio-free. Polio is caused by contaminated water and it is still there in 2 countries in the world. Since we were part of Rotary it is our duty to create as much awareness as possible to get vaccination done for all the children below 5 years or else even a single relapse will be a threat to the whole nation. Hence we are visiting school across the country and spreading awareness about cleanliness and hygiene.

We opted for cycling because children get inspired very soon when they hear about our expedition and see us on cycle.Cyclists Touring India To Support Polio Eradication are in Udaipur, Know Why!

  1. Any experience during the course of this tour which is worth mentioning?

We had a lot of experience during the course of this journey. One such astounding fact that we came across was in Basti, a place in Bihar. We met a doctor who is a rotary member, he was around 75+ years old and serving patients free of cost since the time he became a doctor. India was declared as polio-free in 2015 but in Basti, it was polio-free in 2013 itself. This was something we weren’t aware of and was a new addition to our overall experience.

  1. How does it feel to travel through the country for a cause?

It feels great to be a part of a noble cause and travel for the same. It gives a lot of experience as we do not know the road conditions or climate. We build confidence, management skills and learn other necessary things which are required for life.

  1. Where are you planning to go next, after Udaipur?

We are going towards Ahmedabad from Udaipur.

  1. How are you coping up with the weather in Udaipur and in other parts of India?

Weather is challenging. But we are prepared for everything; we have clothing essentials for all weather condition.

Cyclists Touring India To Support Polio Eradication are in Udaipur, Know Why!

  1. How many kilometers will you cover and in what time at the end of this tour?

We are planning to cover 20000km across India and we are planning to finish in the first week of March.

In the end, we would like to express our gratitude towards our following supporters:

  • Jeep
  • Garmin
  • Surana College, Bangalore
  • Rotary Bangalore Orchards
  • Rotary District 3190
  • Rotaract Bangalore Orchards.

We would like to extend our special thanks to Rotary Club of Udaipur for the royal hospitality and giving us an opportunity to meet the prince of Udaipur LakshayRaj Singh Mewar.

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Udaipur Speaks

Are we really a REPUBLIC INDIA?

Republic means a country in which supreme power is held by the people and their elected representatives, and which has an elected or nominated president. But sometimes I ask myself a question “Are we really Republic…?” The answer that comes is “NO”.

It’s said that government is for the people, by the people and of the people. But it doesn’t seem to me like this. If we would have been republic then our views won’t be overlooked, our voices won’t be tongue tied. This Republic Day I don’t feel like celebrating but mourning on our past activities.

Republic Day

 

Talking about the “Nirbhaya’s” case, it’s been more then a month and the culprits are not being punished. People say that it’s the fault of girls, just because of their outfits, but is it their fault that some “Idiots” can’t change their so called filthy mentality, its their they can’t control the beast in them. Can anyone one please tell me does a 3 yr old girl, or a 35 yr old housewife, or a 55 yr old aged women wear western clothes or is it the fault of the animal that can’t control himself. They say it takes two hands for a clap. I request these people please “Grow Up”, respect women instead of admonishing them, stating them guilty for everything, change your bloody mentality about them, and know their worth. Every person is given birth by a woman, whom he calls mother. I thought that may be after the Delhi case, we won’t hear of any rape cases but am sorry to say these mindless monsters haven’t stopped. Every day in newspapers we hear about these cases, but the bitter truth is that these culprits are not even punished, they easily get bailed. It’s even been said by the mother of one of the similar mishap victim that the police didn’t even registered their case, not until the pressure of media. Even after that, they were taking the culprits lightly. She mentioned in her statement that it was because the culprits has strong connections with the politicians. (TOI, 18th Jan. 2013)
Who the hell are we afraid of, representatives of our voice whom we have elected..? You tell me that by remaining silent are we giving justice to all those girls who have lost their lives, or who are still suffering, or who won’t be able to live a stable life. By not punishing the criminals rather let them roam free or enjoying their lives or making a family getting married. You tell me are we correct in this..? So I request you all, please take a stand. Now the time is for us “The Young Guns of India” to take a step change the laws, change the rules, change the people’s mentality, punish the culprits and give justice to women. And I think instead of just hanging the culprits they must be killed brutally, the same way they have destroyed lives of various girls and women.

I want to ask our government few questions: “Were you waiting for something like Nirbhaya’s case to happen to take some action against it..? What about all those girls who have suffered before it..? Was it a normal thing for you rather being an offence..? Why does it take too long for you to wake up?”

I am also ashamed on the way our government is treating Pakistan for the brutality they have shown since ages. They killed our soldiers, beheaded them, as well as firings and series of bombings in our country so far. And what we do is cancel our cricket matches with them, don’t allow them in the social meetings. Can’t we rather give them a proper “reply” the way they have treated us so far. They say that they hanged “Kasab”, but none of them who are self appreciating have noticed that he stayed in our country like a VIP, a celebrity for more than 4 years.

We are republic, but our country suffers from loopholes inside our own system. Why can’t we take a strong action against any external or internal brutality? Why can’t we just be a part of a cleaner democratic and republic India rather than living in a world of dirty politics, even when the people stand for a peaceful protest on roads, their own representatives issue orders to disperse the mob forcefully and brutally.

Please people, lets stand up for all the victims of Incredible India. Corruption is embedded in our system till depths. Its time for us now to take some action against all this, to make India worth calling “Mera Bharat Mahan”. And until that, even we are worthless. Let us not allow them to take advantage of our silence. Jai Hind, Jai Bharat!

P.S.: By this article if I have hurt anyone’s feelings, I am sorry for it. No offense, but these are my independent views about our Republic India.

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Article By: Rhythum Tamra

Categories
Udaipur Speaks

Diesel and LPG Price Hike: India Smashed!

Photo Courtesy : ibnlive.in.com

Again a new propaganda!!!! A country piled upto the brim with corrupt and felon ministers, conjures another economic problem aka social problem, affecting common people the most. Absolute power corrupts absolutely; this is yet again displayed by none other than our own Government & Politicians.

To device a new controversy, in order to cover the older ugly scams of “The Ministers” of India, has become a new way by the government to save themselves from the rage of the people “The Common 1’s”. (Coalgate scam)

The latest addition to the collection of bottlenecks, comes with a bash: PRICE HIKE IN DIESEL & LPG

Photo Courtesy : manjul.com

A pure and smart strategy plotted by the Indian government on how to convert a prioritized issue (Coalgate scam) into a secondary one or even to a vanishing one, diverting it towards oblivion and forgetfulness.

Well, for sure it wouldn’t have had struck anyone that a big bang like the above would shock the whole country with its flash, diluting the other important attention seeking topics at hand. An exponential increase in the diesel price by 12% (or 5 rupees) along with a topping of 6 subsidized LPG cylinders per annum is of course a big deal. The biggest part is that these increments in the mentioned fuels will affect only and only the hoi polloi.

Diesel basically is used in industrial and agriculture purposes whereas LPG is used for household purpose. Increase in price of kerosene and cooking gas directly raise the price of meal and light to the citizens resulting in more problems for the society already grappling with price rise and poverty. Hence any increase in diesel price has a very big impact on the poorest section.

Due to the hike in diesel rates, first of all the transportation charges will take a hike, subsequently resulting in cost rise of almost all the commodities including the packaged and the non-packaged products. Secondly it increases the cost of production for farmers as this fuel is used in almost all the agricultural activities. Additionally, public transportation would also grow costlier. The entire process will add to the ever rising inflation within the country, further decreasing the value of Rupee in the International Currency Market, which would in turn boggle the economy of India for sure, resulting into an endless cycle of miseries.

Coming to the next section; 6 subsidized LPG cylinders a year!!!! How is each and every family supposed to spend a whole year with only 6 subsidized cylinders, except for dieting plans? Food is a basic necessity, which would go for a toss by this decision. Only 6 cylinders mean invitation for more nuclear families. A country with true morals and a prosperous culture is being forced to quit its morals merely for a cylinder! Is it justifying? Cooking gas price rise also hampers Government’s plan to promote the use of clean fuels for cooking in rural areas since people would not prefer costly cooking gas to other cheaper domestic alternatives (i.e. woods and uplas).

After all these changes in the diesel and LPG prices how can an Indian citizen sit quietly?

In this era of ever-growing population and technology, demand for every commodity has enhanced simultaneously. From these commodities also some day to day ones place a very important role in the society. These daily based items are of so much importance that any change in them affects human needs adversely.

Government quotes it was a risky act to raise the prices so as to cut down the problem of fiscal deficit. They also mentioned 6 no. per annum will save subsidy on one-third of the total LPG cylinders consumed, while the other two-third will still be supplied at subsidized rate. Also it will prevent misuse of the cylinders to a large extent. It will reduce the under-recovery on LPG by about Rs 5,300 crore for the remaining part of the financial year. Yet, the total under-recovery on LPG during 2012-13 is estimated to be above Rs 32,000 crore.

Well, a falling tree always tries to save its branches. Our government is trying to do the same.

The matter of fact is that every citizen should be well prepared for such adversities, to overcome them. As from this point forth, nothing will reduce but instead grow in the form of a devil.  As it is said “Karma karte jao par fal ki iccha na karo”.

For now, the sigh of relief is the news of change in the number of subsidized cylinders from a six to a ten. And the ravishing news is reduction in the prices of cars in compensation to the diesel hike (if it is 😛 ).

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Article By: Shuchi Mehta

Categories
News

Sania & Saina: in form at the right time!

2012 French Open | UdaipurBlog

The recent French Open victory of the Indian duo of Mahesh Bhupathi & Sania Mirza has well raised the lost expectations of the Indian sports-lovers from (once) the biggest women sportstar of India, to beg a medal for the country in the upcoming London Olympics. The caliber of her partner needing no introductions, her qualification for the 2012 games now remains the only urgent need!

Saina | UdaipurBlog

 

On the other side, the star shuttler Saina Nehwal too entered the finals of the Thailand Open today. Though qualified for the London Olympics, another 2 victories will give her a big confidence boost; presently World No. 5th, this diligent Hissar girl is the biggest hope of the country in the 2012 Olympics.

With the name of the 5 times World Women’s Boxing champion, M.C. Marycom already in the final list, fingers are still crossed for Sania Mirza’s wild card entry to the games!

A medal each from these 3 proficient women will easily equal the country’s last Olympic performance. We wish them all the very best 🙂

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Image credits: TheHindu.com, Entertainmentpk.com