देश में हर वर्ग की कामकाजी महिलाओं के उत्थान एवं स्वावलम्बन के लिये कार्यरत वीमन मेन्टर्स फोरम एवं अमेरीका की हिलेरी क्लिटंन द्वारा स्थापित स्वयंसेवी संस्था वाईटल वाॅयसेस के संयुक्त तत्वावधान में आगामी 11 मार्च को अन्तर्राष्ट्रीय महिला दिवस के उपलक्ष में कामकाजी प्रोफेशनल महिलाएं फतहसागर पाल पर दौड़ेगी।
फोरम की उदयपुर हेड डाॅ. अनिता भण्डारी ने बताया कि अनिता सुराणा द्वारा गठित वीमन मेन्टर्स फोरम के उदयपुर में गठन होने के बाद यह प्रथम इवेन्ट है। यह दौड़ रविवार को 60 देशों के 151 शहरों में एक साथ ग्लोबल मेन्टोरिंग वाॅक्स के रूप में आयोजित होगी। उन्होंने बताया कि भारत में इस संगठन का मुख्य उद्देश्य कामकाजी महिलाओं में नेतृत्व क्षमता का विकास करना, चुनौतियों का सामना करते हुए महिलाओं को आगे बढ़ाना है। भारत में इस अन्तर्राष्ट्रीय संगठन के साथ मिलकर यह संगठन उक्त दौड़ आयोजित कर रहा है।
फोरम की कोर ग्रुप की सदस्य श्रीमती शुभ सिंघवी ने बताया कि ग्लोबल मेन्टोरिंग वाॅक्स संस्था विदेशों में उन महिलाओं के लिये कार्य करती है जो प्रोफेशनल तौर पर संस्थायें चला रही है। आयोजन की मुख्य अतिथि उच्च शिक्षा मंत्री किरण माहेश्वरी, विशिष्ठ अतिथि कुवंरानी निवृत्ति कुमारी मेवाड़ होगी जबकि दौड़ को फ्लैग आॅफ अन्तर्राष्ट्रीय स्तर पर तैराकी में नाम कमा चुकी गौरवी सिंघवी करेगी। दौड़ प्रातः 7 बजे रवाना होगी। दौड़ मेें 22 वर्ष की युवती से लेकर 60 वर्ष की तक महिलायें भाग ले सकेगी।
फोरम की कोर सदस्या शिल्पा बापना ने बताया कि इस दौड़ में 100 से अधिक महिलाएं भाग लेगी। इस अवसर पर संगठन से जुड़ी महिला सदस्याओं ने आयोजन के पोस्टर का कुंवरानी निवृत्ति कुमारी मेवाड़ ने विमोचन किया। शहर में इस संगठन को आगे बढ़ाने के लिये पूनम राठौड़, हसीना चक्कीवाला, श्रद्धा कोठारी, चन्द्रिका झोटा, सोनाली मुर्डिया कार्यरत है।
We all are aware of Sajja Niwas Garden or Gulab Bagh. But do you know that there is a museum inside a Mahal known as Navlakha Mahal in Gulab Bagh? Let us have an insight of what Navlakha Mahal is.
About Navlakha Mahal
Navlakha Mahal is situated in the heart of Gulab Bagh, which was established in the 19th century. This is a place of pilgrimage for Arya Samaj followers. Maharishi Dayanand, a remarkable sage, and reformer who brought Vedic learning to India, was a profound scholar of Vedas and scriptures and a perfect Yogi. Maharishi Dayanand came to Udaipur on August 10th, 1882. He visited the City of Lakes on the request of Maharana Sajjan Singh, the 72nd ruler of the Mewar Kingdom. The Navlakha Mahal was once the royal guest house of the Maharana.
Source: tripadvisor
Maharishi remained in the city for almost six and a half months and stayed in Navlakha Mahal. In this holy Navlakha Mahal, Maharishi Dayanand accomplished the writing of his greatest manuscript, Satyarth Prakash. This Satyarth Prakash was his protocol for human life. He wrote it for the welfare of mankind and also for conveying divine knowledge to the people.
Source: Rajasthan Tourism
Inside Navlakha Mahal Museum
Forgotten for years, this palace was in a decaying state when Shrimad Dayanand Satyarth Prakash Nyas (trust) began renovating it.
Source: Rajasthan Tourism
Musical fountains have been installed in the inner chowk of the palace, that dance to the tunes of hymns in his praise. Here, once Maharishi spoke on spiritual and religious topics daily to the people of the city and to the Maharaja.
Source: The Arya Samaj
There is also a yajnashala where yajnas, including mass yajnas accompanied by the chanting of Vedic hymns and vedkathas, are performed every day in the morning and evening.
The 1st floor of the palace contains a picture gallery where 67 oil paintings portray Maharishi’s life, from birth to his spiritual enlightenment.
A 14-angled and 14-story ‘Satyarth Prakash Stambh’ or tower is also installed at the writing chamber of Swami Dayanand Saraswati.
A hall in one side of the courtyard houses a Vedic library and reading room. All 23 translations of Satyarth Prakash–including Sanskrit, French, German, Swahili, Arabic, and Chinese are available inside it. Revolving glass cases display Satyarth Prakash and the important Vedic texts.
Source: The Arya Samaj
The Shrimad Dayanand Satyarth Prakash trust also operates a ‘Ved Prachar’ vehicle to spread Vedic knowledge among the people. The vehicle is equipped with a multimedia projector, books and other materials used for promoting the preaching of Maharishi Dayanand.
The three-day long fiesta of revelry Holi is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Mewar by different sects of the Hindu community. Historians tell us that in Mewar the festival of colors used to start from Basant Panchmi. There was dancing of her by mates and that of Ghoomar by the ladies. Lok geet reverberated with the sound of ‘daph’ ‘dhol’ and ‘thali’. The Maharana would go to the garden where entertaining programmes were held. In the ‘durbar’ at Naginabad, the servants were given gifts. Holi was also celebrated in the chowk.It was only after the sacred fire was lit in the Rajmahal that Holi started in the city. There was a tradition of fireworks on Holi in Mewar.
Nowadays, on Holi starting from Shambhu Niwas Arvind Singhji Mewar, reaches Manek Chowk with Naubatrisawari that has ‘ran kan kan’ horses etc that attract the attraction of the foreign and Indian tourists who give him a standing ovation. Guard of Honour is also given to him by the personal army of the palace. Then rituals of Holi Dahan are performed under the guidance of the Purohits of the Dharmsabha.
As the fascinating legend about the Holi festival goes Hiranya Kashyap was very unhappy with his son Prahalad, a devotee of Lord Vishnu. He wanted to kill him several times but failed. Fearing that if he performed the ghastly deed himself, the public would go against him, he asked for his sister Holika’s help. It was believed that fire would not burn her as she sat in the fire for a long time every day. It was proposed that she would sit in the fire with Prahalad in her lap. At first, she did not agree but then her brother told that her if she refused, she would not be allowed to marry Eloji. However, Prahalad’s deep devotion to Lord Vishnu saved him and Holika was burnt to ashes. When Eloji with his baarat was on his way to the palace to marry Holika, he was stunned to learn of the tragic incident. He smeared his body with the ashes of Holika and vowed never to marry. He lost his senses and wandered here and there. He is considered to be an ideal lover. In Rajasthan, in many places have been named after him and one of which is Eloji Ka Neem, near Ganesh Ghati in Udaipur. At some places, people try to guess what the coming year is going to be like from to direction of the flames. Going off the flames in the north pretends a good time and the future is to be medium. When the direction is south. Also good is to be the time when the direction is east or west.
DAY 1: HOLIKA DAHAN
Source: india tv. Holi celebration at City Palace Udaipur
As the time for Holi Dahan, approaches people start gathering at spots where Holika’s have been set up. The trunk or big branch of a tree is set up in the middle and it is surrounded by smaller branches and twigs, pieces of plywood, hay, cow dung ‘uplas’ that are made by women and children. Firecrackers are also put in the middle. At the appointed time, some rituals are performed and the fire lit. There is a feeling of elation as the flames go up. People go round the fire and start greeting others.
‘Dhoond’ ceremony of the newborn children is performed for their good health and welfare. As the legend goes, there lived a rakshas named Dhunda or Dhooni who came to the village and troubled children by making them sick and harming them. When other ways to drive her out of the village failed, the villagers cursed and abused her and lit a fire to frighten her. Finally, this succeeded and it became a tradition on the occasion of Holi.
DAY 2: DHULANDI
source: FairytaleIndia.com Dhulandi celebrations
On the day after Holika Dahan, comes ‘Dulhandi’ when the whole town goes gay smearing faces with ‘gulal’ and colors and sprinkling water. Revelry is in the air. The old difference is often forgotten and people they have started using ‘herbal gulal’ that does not stain clothes nor harm the skin. The use of harmful colors and paints is on the decrease.
DAY 3: BHAIYADOOJ
On the third day of the festival, falls ‘Bhaiya Dooj’ when the brother-sister bonds are revived. The festival that also known as yamdwitiya has a special significance for the Kayasth community. As the legend goes, as desired by Lord Vishnu, Brahma created the world. The latter asked Dharmraj to keep an account of all the deeds performed by human beings and reward or punish them accordingly. Dharmaraj requested the Lord to give him an able assistance to record all these things as it was an extremely difficult task to accomplish single-handed.
For the first time this year, ready-made ‘Holi’ is available in big numbers. The market with ‘semal’ wood costing 300 to 1100 in places such as Surajpole. Also available are ‘uplas’, cow dung cakes made by women. However, hay is to be bought separately. Earlier, people collected dry wood, grass, plywood pieces etc and women and girls made ‘uplas’.
HOW IS HOLI CELEBRATED BY DIFFERENT COMMUNITIES?
After Lord Brahma had meditated for a long time, he saw standing before him an intelligent and handsome being who was to take up this challenging task. As he had originated from the ‘kaya’ soul of the Lord, he has named Kayasth Chitragupta. The people of Kayasth community are descendants of Chitragupta. His sons got their surname after the places they settle in e.g Mathur as they settled in Mathura. As Chitragupta kept a record of the deeds of a man using a pen, the pen has become the weapon of Kayathas as the sword is that of the Rajputs. On On Yamadwitya, Chitragupta with his pen and inkpot is reverently worshipped by Kayasthas.
The Sindhi community of Udaipur has some fascinating Holi tradition. Pieces of wheat dough are baked on burning coal to make ‘Koki’. Sindhi Ghewar is offered as ’prasad’ during Holi Puja and after this 21, 51 or 101 Ghewars are sent to daughters and sisters. Bereaved families are offered Ghewar to end the period of ‘shok’.
SPECIAL RITUALS PERFORMED IN DIFFERENT TEMPLES OF UDAIPUR
source: Udaipurtimes.com Holi celebrations at Jagdish temple, Udaipur
Special rituals are performed in different temples of the towns such as Shrinath Mandir, Jagdish Mandir, Asthal Mandir, Baijiraj Mandir and Jagat Shriomani Mandir. In Srinath Mandir, the Lord has simple Pichwai of white muslin but its original color is not visible as ‘gulal’ is sprinkled on it by devotees.
In Shrinath Mandir, Nathdwara Holi is a big event when thousands of devotees from distant places throng the Mandir. All the main gates are gaily decorated with ‘bandanwar’. Everything gets covered with ‘gulal’ and ‘abir’. Mandlis from outside sing ‘rasias’. On Dulandi ‘dholutsav’ is celebrated. Holi Dahan is done at several places in the town for which ‘dand’ and ‘dhawajas’ are given to children by the Mandir Board.
Menar becomes the venue of a highly fascinating scene on the occasion of Jamra Beej. The main ‘Chouraha’ is beautifully illuminated drum beating goes on all the day at Omkareshwar Chouraha. After the ‘Kasumba’ ritual, the people with swords tied around the waist, and swords and guns in their hands come together. In the evening five groups that are followed by women carrying ‘Kalash’ on the head and singing songs of valor converged at the main chowk and fire guns in the air. Feats with swords are performed. The history of Mewar village and Menaria Samaj is read out.
Tamatar Rad, tomato fight, in which tomatoes are thrown by two parties of young men is organized in Dendor wada near Juna Mandir. After this Ger dance is performed. In village Bhiluda near Raghunath Mandir were two parties used to indulge in throwing stones at each other has been stopped now over 10,000 tribal folks perform Ger dance in the premises of the famous Tripura Sundari Mandir, near Banswara.
Leaving memories behind, people in Mewar wait eagerly for the next year to enjoy Holi revelry again.
Udaipur is a beautiful and picturesque city; having a backdrop of the Aravali Ranges and so many lakes in the city. Apart from this, the city is lush green and offers a lot of places to hang out. Family outings or a kids’ day out, Udaipur has a lot of Gardens and Parks to celebrate a day. Here, we are listing the major gardens and parks in Udaipur.
Saheliyon Ki Bari (Garden of Maidens)
Source: mygola.com
The Garden of Maidens, better known as Saheliyon ki Bari this is one of the major and large gardens in Udaipur. It is a famous tourist spot as well. Built by Rana Sangram Singh during 1710 to 1734, it has many beautiful fountains, a famous lotus pool, and marble elephants that define the royal architecture of that era. As per the legend, the king presented this garden to his queen. The queen with her 48 maidens used to come here for a walk and for having a leisure time.
Gulab Bagh (Sajjan Niwas Garden)
Source: Udaipurblog
One of the largest gardens in Udaipur, Gulab Bagh spreads over 100 acres of land. It gets its name because of countless varieties of roses that it had. It was built by Maharana Sajjan Singh in 1850’s and hence it is also known as Sajjan Niwas Garden. It is a beautiful place away from the bustle of the city. The area is lush green and experiences cool temperatures. It previously had a zoo as well, which is not functional.
Rajiv Gandhi Park
Source: My Udaipur City
An addition to the parks in Udaipur, Rajiv Gandhi Park. It was built in memory of Late Shri Rajiv Gandhi; this garden was inaugurated on 8th may 2008. It is situated overlooking Fatehsagar Lake, near the end of Rani Road. It is a well-maintained garden with children’s park and a food court. There is a nominal entrance fee for this park.
Nehru Garden
Source: PixelDo
This beautiful island park, located in the middle of Fatehsagar Lake was inaugurated in 1967. This oval-shaped island covers an area of 41 acres and has a beautiful garden with a lily pond along with pyramid shaped water fountain which resembles Brindavan Garden of Mysore. The garden is accessible through a boat ride only.
Sajjangarh Biological Park
Source: UdaipurTimes
Opened in the year 2015, this zoological park is developed over an area of 36 hectares, with a budget of 21.70 Crore rupees. It includes different varieties of birds and animals, which have been brought from different parts of the world. You can have a detailed knowledge of the Biological Park, Here.
Guru Gobind Singh Park
Situated opposite to the periphery of the Fatehsagar Lake, Guru Gobind Singh Park is one of the oldest parks in Udaipur. Lately, an open gym was constructed in the park premises for public use. There are various swings, amusement, and recreational activities for the kids at the park. People of every age come to this park all round the day and experience beauty amidst the greenery.
Manikya Lal Verma Garden (Doodh Talai Garden)
Source: Wikiwand
When you drive uphill to Karni Mata stairs, the Doodh Talai Garden starts. The garden was once a beautiful one and held various school picnics; was also a spot for family outings as well. There are various slides and swings for kids. The garden is huge and has various fountains in the course of the lush green pathways. Not just this, you can spot a large variety of flora there. Neatly manicured gardens are its beauty spot and attract a lot of people.
Pratap Park
Source: Howling Pixel
The latest addition to the list of parks in Udaipur is the Pratap Park, inaugurated in February 2017. It is located on the southern boundaries of Lake Pichola. The Pratap Park has become a new favorite spot for the youth of Udaipur and has a huge sculpture reading “I LOVE UDAIPUR” which is the main attraction of the park. Also, it has an open gymnasium.
Sanjay Garden
Source: HolidayIQ
It was built in the memory of late politician Sanjay Gandhi. The park is a spot of amusement for the local people living in that area. It gives an amazing view of the Lake Fatehsagar and you can spot some birds and ducks from the back side of this park as well. It had a fountain in the middle of the park which is non-functional right now.
Moti Magri
Source: TripAdvisor
Moti Magri is located atop a hill near the Lake Fatehsagar and was constructed in the memory of Maharana Pratap. A bronze statue of Maharana Pratap and his horse Chetak is erected in the middle of the garden. The road to the main garden crosses several other small gardens built in the memory of various warriors and Rajput kings. It is a beautiful garden and has a nominal entry ticket to it.
Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Park (Musical Fountain Garden)
Source: Swan Tours
Ideal for a family outing, the musical fountain garden was inaugurated in the year 2004. The place is quite peaceful and you can spend a lot of quality time with nature here. The gardens are well-manicured and a lot of people drop by this place to spend a nice evening, watching the sunset.
Vibhuti Park
Located at the hot-spot of Udaipur city, the Fatehsagar Paal is the Vibhuti Park. Studded with lots of fountains, grass, and trees, this park is an ideal place for diving into nature. There is no entry ticket to this place, it was inaugurated in the year 2014. Not many people are aware of this place is often found bare or uninhabited.
Wolkem Garden
Image Courtesy: Fouzia Mirza
One of the gardens in Udaipur is the Wolkem Garden which has gardens constructed in steps. The park is huge and has many amusement and recreational activities for the kids. The garden also has a lot of fountains and well-maintained lawns. The place is an ideal location for hosting school picnics and family outings.
Listed above are the major gardens and parks in Udaipur, in addition to these, there are various other small parks and gardens which add to the beauty of the city.
If you think any other park or garden must be added to this list, do share so that we can update the list.
Ask any Udaipurite and they will tell you what the City of Lakes means to them. The love for the city is immense when we talk to the people of the city. Udaipur is a beautiful and scenic city, encompassed by lush Aravali Ranges. The lakes of Udaipur are interconnected, forming a unique lake system. The city sits amidst the peaceful milieu of a dense thicket and people from all over the globe come and experience the tranquil.
Photo Courtesy: Lala Deen Dayal
History of Udaipur
In 1553, Maharana Udai Singh shifted his capital from Chittorgarh to a fertile valley region which later got its name as Udaipur. How did his happen? Let’s read further!
This valley was famous in the past for Ayad (Ahar River) for being a bustling trade town in Mewar region. But Ayad was flood-prone. He foresaw that Bahadur Shah or the campaign of Sher Shah Suri may arise.
Maharana Udai Singh had realized the advantages of the hilly areas when he was residing in exile at Kumbhalgarh. He decided to move his capital to a secured place and chose the eastern side of Lake Pichola. This was the place where he had met a hermit, Goswami Premgiriji while hunting in the ranges. The hermit blessed him to build a palace at the shoreline of the Lake, now known as Pichola. So, he decided to shift the capital from Chittaurgarh to Girwa Valley.
Photo Courtesy: Lala Deen Dayal
The valley, at the eastern part of the Aravalli Hill Range, was fed by two perennial rivers -Ayad and Sisarma, they merge further downstream to form Bedach River. This strategically located Girwa valley was endowed with a natural defense system, which made it as an ideal location for human settlement. Further, there was the lake Pichola which could suffice the water needs of his people. Also, the hills of Aravalli provided natural fortification and the hilly region made it difficult for armored Mughal horses to climb.
The foundation day
Taking all aspects into consideration Maharana Udai Singh founded the city on the auspicious Aakhaa-Teej day of 1553 CE (Akshay Tritiya, Vaishaakh Sudi Teej, Saturday- April 15, 1553).
Photo Courtesy: Lala Deen Dayal
In 1567, when Mughal Empire was threatening Mewar and captured Chittorgarh fort, Udai Singh built a large, six-kilometer long wall to protect Udaipur from attacks. The wall had seven gates. Even today, this region is called as the walled cityof Udaipur.
Mughal Emperors Akbar (1576) and later on by Aurangzeb (1680) attacked the city and the city’s terrain proved to be an advantage for the Maharana.
Maharana Udai Singh also constructed a major masonry dam to the east of the capital city which he named after him as Udaisagar.
After the change of the Capital
The Maharana encouraged people of all castes & communities to settle in the new city for which he liberally granted lands.
The nobles and traders also settled here with the construction of their havelis, while the general masses constructed ordinary houses. Step wells were also constructed in addition to the bathing ghats on Pichola’s banks.
Photo Courtesy: Lala Deen Dayal
Maharana Jagat Singh-I (1628-1652) further added more rooms to the Palace that Maharana Udai Singh built and further developed Jagmandir island palace and temples in the city. Over the centuries, four more water bodies were added to Pichola to its north- Amar Kund, Rang Sagar, Kumbhariya Talab (an extension to Swaroop), Swaroop Sagar.
What happened after the Mughals?
Later on, when Mughal Empire became weak, Sisodia called upon themselves independent and reasserted Udaipur and other areas of Mewar except for Chittorgarh. Though Mughals tried to recapture Udaipur and its nearby areas, it remained by the Sisodias until it became a princely state under British control.
Photo Courtesy: Lala Deen Dayal
Today, Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar is the 76th custodian of Mewar Dynasty.
Quick Facts about the City of Lakes Udaipur
Area: 64 sq. km
Date of establishment: In the year 1553
Founded by: Maharana Udai Singh
Location: Southern part of Rajasthan state
How to reach:
By air- Maharana Pratap Airport Udaipur,
By rail- Udaipur railway station
By road- Ahmedabad (256 km), Chittorgarh (115km), Alwar (348 km) Jaipur (418 km), Jodhpur (255 km), Kota (248 km) and Jaisalmer (508 km),
Best time to Visit: September to March
Languages Spoken: Hindi, English, and Rajasthani (Mewari)
Famous delicacies: Daal Baati Choorma, Baajre ki Khichdi, and more.
Source: andbeyond
City Overview:
The city of Udaipur located in the southern part of the state of Rajasthan, near the Gujarat border. The abundance of lakes and the Aravalli Range that acts as a border and separate the city from the Thar desert makes the city differ in the climate as well as terrain.
Why Udaipur? I say why not! The beautiful City of Lakes has strongly held on to its roots and its natural vibrancy. With its unbeatable charm, this Venice of the East has attracted numerous local and international tourists over the years. The rich Rajputana history runs deep and can be easily viewed at the majestic palaces, forts, and gardens. Udaipur might be a small peaceful city but it has a heart for everyone who visits here. If you are in the mood to travel here but still skeptical about certain things, continue reading to find answers to your questions:
What is the Best Time to Visit Udaipur?
Though monsoons are incredible here, the most relaxed time to visit Udaipur is the winter season. This starts from November and ends around mid-March.
How Can One Reach Udaipur?
By Air: There’s Maharana Pratap Airport that is situated 22 km from the city. It is well connected with all the major metropolitan cities of India. Nothing to worry about with regular flights flying from Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Jaipur.
By Train: If one is traveling within the country, they can reach Udaipur through trains. Many foreign tourists who are looking for a luxurious experience travel to the city via the Maharaja Train or the Palace on Wheels. You just have to keep a check on your PNR status and follow your travel trail accordingly.
By Road: In the past many years, high-quality road network and good infrastructure by the state has definitely increased the trend of travel-by-road to Udaipur. For example, one can have a relaxed road trip from Delhi to Udaipur in about 11 hours.
What to Do in Udaipur?
Sunset Boat Cruise on Lake Pichola
Calm your senses while you are around the magnificent Lake Pichola. It contains four islands, namely – Jag Mandir, Jag Niwas, Mohan Mandir and Arsi Vilas. An evening boat cruise around the freshwater lake during sunset is one of the most blissful experiences in Udaipur. Watch the glimmering beam of sun rays color the soothing waters golden.
Soothing Vibes at Saheliyon ki Bari
Also known as the Courtyard of Maidens, it is a pristine garden that has been wonderfully constructed with fountains, marble elephants, and lush green lawns. If you love nature photography, this place will help you to click a multitude as it has a rich cover of stunning flowers and plants. These picturesque gardens seem to attract a lot of youngsters that are just looking out for a peaceful time in nature’s lap.
An Explosion of Culture at Bagore-Ki-Haveli
Once a mansion, now turned into a museum, Bagore-Ki-Haveli in Udaipur was built by the ruler of the Mewar province in the 18th century. Situated on the Gangaur Ghat, this 138-room marvel offers many cultural attractions such as the longest turban and gallery containing many art pieces.
Hike in Spirituality at Karni Mata Temple
Source: myudaipurcity
Explore your connection to spirituality at the Karni Mata temple. Also known as the Shri Manshapurna Karni Mata, it is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Karni Mata located on the Machla Magra Hills in Udaipur. Many people from around the world come to seek her blessings. It also makes a fascinating destination to watch the sun going down.
Soak in the rich culture of Rajasthan and Udaipur and take some of it back with you. Collect things new and old at the Hathi Pol Bazaar. Whether you are searching for paintings, souvenirs, and artisanal products at very reasonable prices.
Vintage Cars that Once Ruled the Road
When in Udaipur, do check out the Vintage & Classic Car Collection Museum. This museum helps you get a rare insight into the maintenance and upkeep of these old yet amazing cars that you may have seen in movies or television shows.
Hope these tips have been helpful. Now you can easily plan your travel to this marvelous city without any problem.
The soft footfalls of Holi festivals can be heard weeks before the grand fiesta is celebrated with great gusto in Lake City. A couple of days in advance on the occasion of Amalka Ekadsh, rural folk from neighboring areas of Udaipur flock to the religious and historic place Gangoudhara (Gangukund) near the Chhatris, the cremations ground of the royal families of Mewar in Udaipur. The ancient ‘Kund’ is believed to have the presence of the river Ganga. In fact, people start gathering here days in advance. There is a big crowd of devotees at the Rajrajeshwar Shiv Mandir to perform rituals. Young and old are seen enjoying themselves on Chakri ‘jhulas’, eating ‘Chat pakodi’ and the like. They go on a shopping spree as there is a huge variety of items including cosmetics, bangles, and domestic ware on sale in this traditional fair. A special feature of this fair (mela) is the availability of earthen ‘matkas’ that Udaipurites in large numbers buy for their cool water supply in summer. It is also popular called ‘matka mela’ fair where pot makers from outside Udaipur begin to reach weeks in advance.
Source: UdaipurTimes.com
Udaipur markets start buzzing with activity. For the last couple of years, herbal ‘gulal’’ is having good demand and a fort night the Forest dept. has created a record by selling about 1100 kilos of this items. It is prepared in neighboring tribal areas of Udaipur such as Thamla Ber Devla of Kotda region Dang, Malviya-Merpor, Kodiyat and Chukdia of Udaipur and Jorma of Gogunda with a target of about 50 quintals. The income goes to the Van Suraksha and Prabhand Samiti. Mainly four kinds of ‘gulal’ is made from different material like roses, ‘amaltash’, ‘chukandar’. Tribal women go out in the jungle everyday to collect flowers and their juice is extracted. And after adding it to a rarest flower it is dried again. This material is then ground till they take the form of fine powder. Attractively packed in 200 and 250 gram packets the material is sent to the market. It is in big demand not only in outside places such as Delhi, Mumbai and Gujarat. Herbal ‘gula’ is proving very popular with its several advantages. It is eco friendly and does not hurt the skin or the eyes. The clothes are not stained. Its sweet smell and natural colors are added attractions. It has also become a source of income for tribal women who are becoming better aware of protection of forests but a big order has also been received from Australia.
Source: india.com Holi celebration at City Palace Udaipur
Children and boys can be seen buying different kinds of ‘pitchkaris’ in markets, especially Surajpole, Delhigate and Bapu Bazar. This year also, a big favourite ‘ankwali pichkari’, that has the capacity of 1 to 2 liters of water and can be hung from the waist. So are gun and pump shaped ones. On sale are ones with stickers of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, as also those of cartoon characters like Doromon. With these are being bought spray color, capsule color, tube color and ‘gulal’. The prices have gone up this year due to GST.
With the beginning of Holastak a week before Holi, special celebration of Fagoutware, started attracting devotees to the temples of Udaipur. During these eight days that are of special significance for Vaishnavas of Pustimagiya Vaishnavas, the devotes to the temples of religious fervour. Devotees of Udaipur and Gujarat come to the Shrinath Mandir Nathdwara, in large number. There is a lot of rarely devotees in the form of different gods and goddesses dance before the Lord. On this occasion are sung ‘garis’ that are dialogues between the lord and the ‘gopis’. Devotees have the ‘darshan’ of ‘lilas’ of Kamdeo for forty days when he tries to overpower the Lord in various ways. However, two days after Holi, Kamdeo accept his defeat.
Jagdish Mandir is also drawing a large number of devotees who participate enthusiastically in ‘bhajan’ singing and other programmes. According to an old tradition, thousands of villagers of Pherapheri do not work on Ekadash and visit this temple to worship the Lord. In Kalyan Shaktipeeth Udaipur , ‘Maha-aarti’ is performed after decorations the idol with ‘Chandan gulal’ of different colors.
In the main streets of the city can be seen persons of Vagaria community from Marwar and Mewar singing on the beat of the ‘chang’ and asking for ‘shagun’ money.
The whole city begins to vibrate with joyous festive vibes. Parties of singers from Nathdwara Srinath Mandir come to Udaipur to sing ‘rasia’ songs. To sing songs composed by the great ‘bhakti’ poet Ras Khan, singers from Brij also come to Udaipur.
Lake City is a big tourist destination for several reasons. Not many other places have so many attractions for tourists, Indian or foreign. Its scenic beauty with several big and small water bodies in all around the city such as Pichola, Rang Sagar, Swarup Sagar, Fateh Sagar, Badi, Udaisagar, Rajsamand and Jaisamand and hills covered with greenery is a sight to behold. The sanctuaries like Sajjangarh, Kumbhalgarh, Sita Mata and Jaisamand and Sajjangarh Biopark and Baghdera Nature Park and the newly developed Biodiversity Park have a lot to offer to wildlife lovers. In addition to these in several lakes, especially those near Menar, in the region can be sited a huge number of birds of various species. Those interested in history have several places to visit Haldighati, Sajjangarh and Kumbhalgarh Forts. Pilgrims have a lot of places of interest like Eklingnathji, Shrinathji, Dwarkesh Mandir and Jagdish Mandir to watch intricate architecture. One has palaces and haveli’s to visit.
ANCIENT RELICS FOUND
However, there are several places that are wonderful sites of geological interest and reveal our heritage that is centuries old. Recent researches done by geologists in Badgaon near Udaipur have shown that life existed there even 206 Crore years ago. Nanofossils have been found in this village. The findings of studies done by geo-scientists of Punjab in Rajasthan have revealed rocks in Rajasthan that are 370 Crore years old. These findings have been accepted at international levels. Studies of rocks in Udaipur and Gogunda region that are believed to be 330 to 140 Crore years old have also been undertaken. Surveys have been conducted by archeology dept. Of Sahitya Sansthan, Rajasthan Vidyapeeth in Girwa tehsil on the edge of Ahad, Banas, Berach basin and passing through Gadwa, Changedi, Sihada, Bichdi, and Udaisagar. Relics of habitation of the historical and medieval period have been found near Daroli and Mandesar. Near Bichdi Basti rock inscription have also been found. Study of 330 Crore years old rocks of Aravali range in Kherwara region has been undertaken. Facts about the origin of oxygen on earth have also been revealed in a study of German University. At one time, there was sea where there are mountains today.
UNIQUE GEOLOGICAL SITES DISCOVERED
According to Dr. Pushpendra Singh Ranawat, Co-convenor Geo-Heritage Group INTACH Udaipur Chapter, Geological Survey of India (GSI) DECLARED 26 UNIQUE GEOLOGICALSITES ACROSS India in 2001. Subsequently, a few more added to this list. Two fossil parks namely Fossil World Park of AkalJaisalmer Dist. and Stromatolite Park of Bhojunda, Chittorgarh Dist. are there on this list. Two rock monuments of Rajasthan viz Nepheline Syenite, Kishangarh, Ajmer Dist. and Barr Conglomerate, Barr, Pali Dist. also find a place here. Sendra Granite, Pali Dist. is another geological marvel from Rajasthan. As also Gossan of Rajpura-Daribo in Rajsamand Dist.
Nepheline Syenite, Kishangarh
Each monument has specialization of its own. Located about 18 km south-east from the desert city of Jaisalmer on National Highway 15 to Barmer, Akal Wood Fossil Park has the rare exposure of 180-million-year-old rock that has fossilized tree trunks lying scattered in an area of 21 Hc in the company of invertebrate life remains. A visit to Barr Conglomerate, Pali District located in the vicinity of village Barr on Beawar-Pali section of NH14, leaves one wondering hour a hard-brittle rock piece can be flattened and elongated like plastic clay without it being fractured or fragmented. In Sendra Granite NGM wind and water have become acidic by fluctuations in temperatures, acting over millions of years, have sculpted rocks into marvelous shapes that have fascinated human beings for ages. Here a visitor can watch fancy forms some of which have a strange resemblance to human beings.
Source: TimesofIndia
At Bichardi, in Pali district, there exists a geothermal well that is rare and unique in Rajasthan. It is a hot water spewing well that has +58-degree centigrade temperature. It has a water table at depth of 30m. The water is pumped out, cooled and then used for irrigation. In the Stromatolite Park, Bhojunda, in Chittorgarh district can be seen stromatolites that are biochemical accumulations which grow through the work of blue-green algae and bacteria in the shallow marine environment. They may produce a variety of structures Another Stromatolite has been discovered in still order Aravali rocks and that too in an economically significant rock phosphate makes to Stromatolic Park, Thamarkota in Udaipur district an undisputed King of National Geological Monuments of India.
ZAWAR SHOWED THE WAY TO INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION
Nearer home, the over 2500-year-old Zawar Zinc-Lead Mining Industry is located in a rugged area about 40 km south of Udaipur approached by NH8 to Ahmedabad up to Titdi village, and then a bifurcation to the left least leads one to Zawar village. Zawar is also a railway station on Udaipur-Himmatnagar railway line. The importance of this geo-park that is defined as a unified area with geological heritage of international significance, can be judged from its recognition as an International Historic Landmark as early as in 1988. The plaque of American Society of Metals at Zawar reads: “At this site are preserved the zinc retort furnaces and remnants of related operation. The village artifacts together with temple ruins at least to the success of this metallurgical technology. This operation first supplied the Zinc for making a brass instrument in Europe, a forerunner of Industrial Revolution”. According to Dr. Ranawat Archeological study by the British Museum, London, MS University, Baroda and Hindustan Zinc Ltd. In 1983 proved that at Zawar metallic zinc was produced by distillation process for the first time in the world.
Sendra Granite NGM Source: MyIndMakers
For as a metal zinc has a relatively low melting point (about 420-degree centigrade) and low alcoholic drink. Carbon dating of time of timber used as support in underground mines and common use of brass in Ayad and other archeology sites of Mewar prove that the area witnessed mineral utilization fairly early in human history. Its recorded and historically impactful use continued at regular but slow pace essentially because mining was done by chiseling as explosives and mechanization were not known them. Five-setting and quenching could have been used in open cast pits or shallow well-ventilated underground mines, but it is highly unlikely that it was used at wet deeper levels that had poor ventilation and damp oxygen-poor ambient condition.
ZAWAR UNIQUE TECHNOLOGY
In the opinion of the eminent historian of Mewar, Dr. Shrikrishna ‘Jugnu’, Zawar is known not only for its huge supply of iron, zinc etc but also the processes employed that included hilltop wells the digging of which started at the top and metal mixed ore was thrown out. In this process, there was no danger of flooding. In case of the collapse of sand, wooden planks were used. The technique of Shilabhedan as first described in Brahatsanhita and later on by Chakrapan Mishra, a contemporary of Maharana Pratap was used. In this, processes of breaking the rocks that obstructed mining were explained. One of the ways to break the rocks was to burn the wood of ‘dhak’ and ‘teemru’ wood on them and then sprinkle lime water on them. The ashes of the ‘shar’ tree. The mixture was sprinkled seven times on the rock to break it. Keeping a mixture of ‘Chhaj’, ‘Kanji’, ‘Sura’ and ‘Kulathi’ in a vessel for seven days turned it into a chemical. To break the orck, it was sprinkled on the rock 2-4 times. Neem tree leaves and bark, ‘timru’ fruit, ‘giloya’ etc were mixed with ‘gaumutra’ sprinklings of this mixture six times made the rock break into pieces.
It is believed that in 430 B.C metals were extracted in Zawar. Rocks were broken with ‘Chhaini’, hammer etc. and then melted in the furnace of the special type were made with sand in such a way that they were not affected by the three kinds of flames and the optimum temperature was maintained. Possibly pieces of Khejri wood that has the quality of burning for a long time were used to heat the furnaces. Researches by dozens of geologists from different countries like Britain have shown that in smelling round shaped sand pots were used. When not used for this purpose they were used in building houses. Now they have been displayed in a museum built by RSMM and Hindustan Zinc Ltd.
Promotion of geo-tourism through publications, internet, seminars etc with the active participation of tourism and mining depts. NGO’s like INTACH, and chapters of Rotary and Lion Clubs etc.
Chittorgarh is near to Udaipur and people who come to Udaipur are more likely to visit Chittor as well. The place has an avid history and the fort of Chittorgarh is considered the largest in India. The whole place is a tourist friendly place and has a lot to explore. Here we are listing places to visit in Chittorgarh.
Chittorgarh Fort
Source: Trans India Travels
Chittorgarh’s massive hilltop fort is regarded as one of the most outstanding forts of the country. The remarkable fort sits atop a 180-meter-high hill, covering an area of 700 acres. It is believed that the fort was built by the Mauryans in the 7th century and further structures were added to it by the successive Mewar rulers.
The fort had 84 water bodies, out of which only about 22 exist today and hence sometimes it is also known as the Water Fort. These water bodies included ponds, wells, and step wells. These reservoirs can store about 4 billion liters of water!
Time taken to visit: People typically spend up to 2 hours here
Vijay Stambh- Tower of Victory
Source: HindustanTimes
The Vijay Stambh is a 9 story tower decked by sculptures of Hindu deities. It was built in 1440 AD by Maharana Kumbha to celebrate his victory over Mohamed Khilji.
There are around 157 narrow steps leading to the terrace of the stambh and gives a sight not to be missed!
Kirti Stambh- Tower of Fame
Source: Trans India Travels
It is said the 22 meters high Tower of Fame was built by a wealthy Jain merchant in the 12th century A.D. It is dedicated to Adinath, the 1st Jain Teerthankar; this stambh is decorated by the naked figures of the Digambars. A narrow stairway goes through 7 stories of the tower to the top.
Time taken to visit the two stambh: People typically spend up to 45 min here
Gaumukh Reservoir
Source: tourmyindia
Gaumukh means ‘mouth of a Cow’. This reservoir is considered to be sacred- a spring coming from a ‘cow mouth’ situated at the edge of the cliff.
At Gaumukh Reservoir people can also feed the fish present in the tank.
Rana Kumbha Palace
Source: Rajasthan
The palace was first built by Bappa Rawal in 734 A.D, later renovated by Maharana Kumbha. Today, the ruined structure of this great historical place is lying in the fort which was once the most massive monument in the fort of Chittorgarh.
Time taken to visit: People typically spend 20 min here
Padmini Palace
Source: tourmyindia
It is one of the earliest palaces constructed in India to be completely surrounded by water. It is inscribed on stones near the monument that it was here when the King Rana Ratan Singh showed the beauty of his wife to Alauddin Khilji through a mirror which later on led to the battle and subsequently the act of Jauhar.
Meera Mandir
Source: Native Planet
Build by Maharana Kumbha in 1449, it is the only temple dedicated to Meera Bai, a Rajput princess who gave up her royal life and devoted herself to Lord Krishna. It is believed that she asked her Father in Law, Rana Sanga, to build a temple for her placing centering Lord Krishna.
Time taken to visit: People typically spend 30 min here
Kalika Mata Temple
Source: TripAdvisor
It is believed that this mother goddess temple was built originally in the 8th century while the upper parts of the structure are more recent. It is dedicated to the Goddess ‘Kali’ who is the deity of the Panwar Clan.
Time taken to visit: People typically spend 30 min here
Fateh Prakash Palace Museum
Source: tourmyindia
Build by Maharana Fateh Singh, the property carries his name. It was turned into a museum in the year 1968. This palace, exhibits various kinds of weapons, a rich collection of sculptures from temples and buildings in the Fort.
Timings: 10:00 am to 04:30 pm
Seven Gates of the Fort
Source: Rajasthan Tourism
To enter into the Fort of Chittorgarh, the person has to go through seven huge gates or Pol. Each gate is different in its name, design and its size. Below is the list of these gates:
Padan Pol
Bhairon Pol
Hanuman Pol
Jorla Pol
Ganesh Pol
Laxman Pol
Ram Pol
Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary
Your trip to Chittorgarh isn’t complete if you haven’t been to the Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary.
The Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of 50 Sq km and has panthers, wild boars, antelopes, mongoose and migratory birds. The Sanctuary is situated at a distance of 5 km from the Fort of Chittorgarh. Orai Dam and Bassi Dam located within the sanctuary are also prominent attractions of the place.
We have come across the word Video Jockey a lot. But there is another term for VJ and that is Visual Jockey, an artist who makes your experience a vivid one through their visuals in various album art, merchandise, and visuals for music artists playing live.
The unique and experimental nature of a Visual Jockey certainly makes it an exciting career choice.
Ravi Soni from the City of Lakes is making us mesmerized with his unparalleled visuals. We ran talking to him and found some really interesting things!!!
Let us share it with you!
Tell us a brief about yourself.
I was born and brought up in Udaipur, I did my masters in Computer Science and was working as Assistant Professor when I first saw the LED Screen and immediately decided to enter into the field of Visuals.
Ravi Soni
It has been 5 years since I did my first show and have played for lots of artists including big names like Saleem-Sulaiman, Mika Singh, Yo Yo Honey Singh, Neha Kakkar, Vishal-Shekhar, Meet Brothers and a lot more.
We have always heard about a ‘Video Jockey’. Tell us about what exactly a ‘Visual Jockey’ is?
A Visuals Jockey is an artist who mixes the visuals LIVE to display them on a screen. This screen can be an LED Wall, Projector screen or any other display device. The visuals being displayed contain various images, photos, videos, loops, texts etc.
Mika
What made you choose such a different profession? Were your family and close ones supportive of your career choice?
It was my love towards music and live shows what brought me into this. This is a creative job where you need to show your skills each and every day.
Badshah
My family and friends have always been a huge support through my journey as a Visual Jockey. Most of the times, I am out for my shows but they never complain and rather always help me getting things done.
What are the hurdles that you have faced, or are facing to be a Visual Jockey?
I shall say there are no institutes for learning this profession and so it is a bit difficult to reach up to a competitive level. Without getting proper guidance, it is a must for one to get into self-learning and which takes lots of time and dedication. Also, bringing yourself to a level where your work is recognized enough to make you being paid a handsome amount is the most necessary thing.
Neha Kakkar
What are the trends in the industry regarding visuals?
This profession is related to show-business and just like every other profession in this industry, trends in this also keep changing with time.
The future is very bright as daily new technologies are being introduced in visual presentations. Projection Mapping and Interactive screens are a few examples.
Tell us about the places/festivals/events etc. where you have played? Any experience worth mentioning?
Over a past few years, Udaipur has become an events hub with Big Fat Weddings being held and a lot of celebrity performances are organized. I have done various events pan-India.
There are lots of good experiences when my work was appreciated but if I have to mention one, I must never forget this event when I was playing visuals for artist “Gurdeep Mehndi”. I noticed that again and again, he was showing visuals to his band as the visuals were going exactly in theme with the song he was singing.
Gurdeep Mehndi
After a few songs, he suddenly shouted “Stop Stop” and everyone went silent and then he asked, “Graphics pe kaun hai?”.
I replied to the question and then he said: “Sabse pehle saare log graphics ke liye taaliyaan bajayenge, maine itne shows kiye par aise exact matching graphics pehli baar dekh raha hu”.
Indian Visual Jockeys are making their names on the world front. Any advice you want to give to the budding VJs?
I consider myself as a beginner who is trying to learn something new daily and that is the only thing I consider as the most important part of any profession.
