Tag: udaipur

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Bet You Didn’t Know This is What Udaipur is Famous For!!

miniature art
miniature art

If you think the answer is lakes, then my friend you guessed it wrong. Most of the people in the city believe that Udaipur is famous for its beautiful lakes, but there is an art that is exclusive to the city and has the maximum number of artists of the same. By maximum number I literally mean quite a huge number, you can find these artists in every alley of the old city. And not just confined to the old city, many art galleries showcase a variety which is located outside a set circumference.

Well, Udaipur-the City of Lakes is famous for its Miniature Art, not only in India but also overseas.

Miniature Art
Source: Pinterest

Know what Miniature Art is and How it’s Made

Each creation takes from a couple of days to weeks to design depending on the detailing and size of artwork. The paintings are made with true stone colors. The powder is mixed with water and gum. To check if the color mix is ready to be used for art, it needs to be touched with a finger to see if it doesn’t stick back which confirms that the color is mixed well. It can then be used for painting on silk cloth or canvas. Black colors are derived from soot which is obtained from vessels put over chulhas fireplace used for cooking in villages. Gum doesn’t mix very quickly with these stone colors hence some laborious mixing is needed to develop them into colors apt for painting.

The making

The making of a miniature painting involves some critical steps:

  • Sketching

Done in reddish-brown ink, on paper.

  • Tracing

Once the sketch is done, the design is drawn on the main paper or canvas.

  • Coloring

After coloring and shading, the outlines of the object, as delineated in the initial sketch, are reconfirmed by a darker tone and the figures are given a well-finished form.

  • Stippling

Stippling is the process of softly stroking or shading by using small dots with a very fine brush.

History Of the Miniature Art

Miniature Art
Source: Webneel

The most excellent examples of painting belong to the first half of the 16th century, represented by a group of miniatures generally named as the “Kulhadar Group.” This group includes illustrations of the ‘Chaurapanchasika’ – “Fifty Verses of the Thief by Bilhan, the Gita Govinda, and the Bhagavata Purana and Ragamala. The style of these miniatures is marked by the use of brilliant contrasting colors, dynamic and angular drawing, and transparent drapery.

The miniature painting art form is famed across the world, but in the Asian subcontinent art, historians consider Rajasthan to be one of its cultural centers. Historians believe the Mughals to be the importers of miniature painting to India from Persia. Humayun’s team of Persian artists established the foundation of miniature art painting, while Akbar gave them patronage and had them train Indian artists to create art representing the royal Mughal life.

Featuring an Eminent Artist of Miniature

miniature art
Suchitra Soni

Suchitra Soni is one prominent artist in Udaipur, who has been painting for more than a decade, says that the art is mostly liked by foreigners and people who are new to this art form. She adds that this art-form requires intensive efforts and dedication as it is an intricate form of art. The art also involves using of 24 karat gold water and color that adds value to the painting.  She works under the name ‘Artistaan’ (formerly Winning Spirit) and values her art a lot. She has exhibited her work at various national and international galleries as well.

We visited her place, and undeniably it was a home of an artist. She also deals with Canvas making and several other forms of painting. The whole room, where she works, was filled with the aroma of colors and we could spot so many types of brushes and other drawing material. She also told us about the various forms of Miniature Art and how on the different variety of paper and ivory sheet or silk cloth the paintings are made. The brushes used are also very distinct from the usual ones and have very fine points or tips.

Upon querying about the time consumed to make an average size Miniature Art, she told us that it takes around 2-3 weeks to do the detailing while it may take a month or so to make a painting that requires intricate work.

Her conviction in her art is immense, and she runs classes of the same to teach the new generation about this ancient form of art.

Watch some of her art below:

Miniature Art
Her First Miniature Art

 

Miniature Art

 

Miniature Art
Fine Art- Miniature Art

 

Miniature Art
Radha Krishna Miniature Art

 

Miniature Art
Kangra Miniature Art

 

Miniature Art
Mughal Miniature Art

 

Miniature Art
A painting in Process

 

Miniature Art
A Painting in Process
Categories
Social

Turn Your Ideas Into Action: My experience of using ActionUdaipur App

Turn Your Ideas Into Action: My experience of using ActionUdaipur App
Screenshot of the start of the App

Read the name ‘ActionUdaipur’? Know what it is 

What is Action Udaipur?

An initiative by the district administration of Udaipur to give power to the citizens to turn their ideas into action, ActionUdaipur is a dais for people to accomplish activities for the improvement of their society, community or the city. The main aim of ActionUdaipur is to encourage the citizens’ contribution towards the growth and betterment of the city.

One can email suggestions at smartcityudaipur@gmail.com

ActionUdaipur Application for Mobile Phones

In order to have a smooth functioning of the campaign of ActionUdaipur, it launched a mobile application on 2nd September 2015 with the help of district administration.

The motto of the campaign is ‘Clean Udaipur, Healthy Udaipur, Beautiful Udaipur’.

This is a one of its kind initiative taken in India by the Udaipur District Administration to keep the city clean and beautiful. With the help of ActionUdaipur App, one can help to keep Udaipur district clean and garbage free.

Steps for using the ActionUdaipur App

After downloading it from the PlayStore (for Android) or AppStore (for iPhones) you just have to follow the below-mentioned steps.

If you see any unclean place around, you need to undertake the following steps:
  • Click 2 photos
  • Keep them in your gallery
  • Click on the Civic Complain option (which is the first option on the homepage of the Application)
  • Once opened, fill in the required fields like Name, Gender etc
  • Upload the two pictures you have taken
  • You can send or save your issue
  • For sending it to the authorities, click on the Send option.

 

  1. Your Complaint will be registered on the central server.
  2. Your location will be taken automatically using GPS.
  3. Registered complaint will be monitored by the Udaipur district administration.

With The Help Of Actionudaipur App, You Can Register The Following:

Problems Related to
  • Garbage (Garbage near Home/Garbage in Society/Garbage at Public Places)
  • Water (Contaminated Water/Water Leakage/No Water/Insufficient Water)
  • Streetlight (Streetlight not working/Streetlight not available)
  • Drainage
  • No Drainage Cover/ Drainage Cover Open /Drainage line Choke up/ Leakage in Drainage line
  • Epidemic/Community Health Increasing Dengue cases/ Increasing Malaria cases/ Increasing Jaundice cases/ Increasing Typhoid cases/ Increasing Cholera cases/Food Poisoning
  • Illegal Hoardings
  • Food Adulteration
  • Dirtiness in Public Toilets
  • Dead Animal
  • Fallen Trees/ Hoardings
  • Mosquito Breeding

An Initiative by Udaipur District Administration to keep Udaipur Clean.

Other than Civic Complain there is an option of Janbhagadari, which will help citizen to give their time to keep Udaipur clean. In addition to these, you can view JanBhagidari Approval. Stay fit, Go Organic, Action Udaipur Gallery, CSR, Event List, Help, Smart City, Start-Up Udaipur, and Ongoing City Projects are other options on the App that can be utilized for specific purposes.

My Experience over Filing a Civic Complaint on Actionudaipur App

My experience with the ActionUdaipur App went decent. I live in an area which is close to Sisarma rural zone, quite far from the actual city hub. The problem involved was of garbage. There was no garbage dumping area or cleaning in our area. No government sweeper came to clean up the colony. After some time, the garbage accumulated started breeding bacteria and very foul smell aroused from the same.

What I did was simply downloaded the App from the Play Store and took two photographs of the garbage heap. Filled in the required fields, uploaded the pictures and clicked on send.

The required fields are mentioned in the screenshots I took to keep a track of things. Have a look.

Turn Your Ideas Into Action: My experience of using ActionUdaipur App
Screenshot of the start of the App

 

Turn Your Ideas Into Action: My experience of using ActionUdaipur App
Homepage of the App

 

Turn Your Ideas Into Action: My experience of using ActionUdaipur App
form

 

Turn Your Ideas Into Action: My experience of using ActionUdaipur App
form

Turn Your Ideas Into Action: My experience of using ActionUdaipur App

Turn Your Ideas Into Action: My experience of using ActionUdaipur App
On successful registering the complaint

I was waiting to get any call or message from ActionUdaipur but unfortunately didn’t receive anything of that sort. Well, after a week I thought this is not going to work. On the 10th day of filing the complaint, a person turned up in my locality asking for me. He told that he shall take care of the dumping and that he is there only to have a look on the complaint’s status. After 3 days of his visit, a cleaner with a vehicle came and took all the trash from the place and cleaned the area.

I had a mixed feeling about the action by ActionUdaipur. Anyway, they did resolve the problem for the time being.  Take a look on the after and before pictures of my area.

ActionUdaipur App
after and before of the location

Tell us how your experience was by using the ActionUdaipur App in the comment section below.

You can also visit their website http://www.actionudaipur.com/  for any other query.

Categories
Travel

The Street Art in Udaipur

street art in udaipur
street art in udaipur

Rajasthan is distinguished for its famous style of paintings which include murals and miniature paintings. The wall murals found in Udaipur are truly marvelous- from graffiti to traditional- everything can be found on the street walls of the city. Palaces, Havelis, streets, buildings, all are covered with these amazing arts. Multitudes of murals greet you, and many of them vary from being painted recently, to those which are quite old found within the beautiful interiors of the palaces, temples, etc.

These exquisite murals found adorning the walls of the city are a thing to watch.  Well, these are specifically found in the ‘Old-City’ of Udaipur. Some are modern arts made by the travelers who come to Udaipur while some of them are made by the city dwellers. Many of them are also made under the ‘Beautification’ process of the city.

Know about the Street Art in Udaipur:

The Traditional Rajputana Art: The Decorative Wall Paintings

Ever thought why these elephants, men, and women are made on our streets? Just to look beautiful? No, there is also some significance behind the traditional art form.

There are a plethora of Rajputana paintings in which a common theme is found throughout. Rajputana artwork is a great manipulation of space. The insertion of fuller spaces is meant to emphasize the lack of boundaries and inseparability of characters and landscapes. In this way, the individuality of physical characters is almost rejected, allowing both the portrayed backgrounds and human figurines to be equally vivid.street art in udaipur

In ancient times Mewar rulers wanted paintings and wall murals to portray their determination, establishing their heritage. Hence, paintings were often indicative of a king’s legacy or their changes made to better the society.

As a mark of beautification, whether during festivals or marriage ceremonies or simply otherwise, these paintings are done on the outside walls of houses and buildings. They display colorful and elaborate portraits of men, women, elephants, horses, riders and deities.street art in udaipur

Both recent and historical paintings can be seen on the walls of the city. Walking down narrow streets of Udaipur’s old city is alike wandering in an art gallery. Whitewashed house walls make canvases for local and foreign artists, who draw cows and elephants, or princely men and women with beautiful clothes or something totally different like some graffiti or abstract art. Most often, the traditional paintings adorn the entrances of houses. They are believed to create a harmonious ambiance, to seek spiritual guidance and cut off evil. Many are decorated with tiny mirrors or mosaic.street art in udaipur

 

street art in udaipur

 

street art in udaipur

 

street art in udaipur

 

street art in udaipur

 

Embellishing the Walls of Udaipur: The Modern Street Art

While there are plenty of traditional arts on the streets of Udaipur, the old city is also decorated by modern arts like graffiti by foreign travelers who come here from various parts of the world and leave a mark on the City. Some of them are quotations written on the walls of restaurants while some are typical abstract art that is very alluring to watch.

street art in udaipur
The Painted Peacock Project

One of the wall mural, somewhere near the Chandpol Bridge is the most famous in the city. It was made by 4-5 women artist from New Zealand. The women came here under a special task ‘The Painted Peacock Project‘, a trip that aimed at sharing knowledge with local children in need and teaching them the art of stenciling, painting and jewelry making.

A lot of people do not know this fact that the painting was initially made by a stencil and then faired out. Interesting!!!

For people who are missing out on what Graffiti is, these are writings or drawings that have been scribbled, scratched, or painted on a wall or other surface, often within public view.

Another quite famous wall painting is at Ambrai Ghat, made by Action Udaipur under the beautification process, making the worn out walls of Udaipur beautiful and worth staring! No doubt the mural at Ambrai is remarkable; the use of bright colors on a pale peach wall embosses the painting. The grandness of the Action Udaipur wall mural is mesmeric and entices a lot of people to click.

street art in udaipur
Action Udaipur Wall Art at Ambrai Ghat

A huge art at the Zostel is one that can mesmerize any onlooker. These murals are timeless marks on the walls that represent diverse culture and inhabitance on the globe. These have also become a spot for unmatched photos and selfies for the localities and tourists.street art in udaipur

The streets of Udaipur are ornamented with unparalleled art that is admired by many residents and tourists as well. Indeed all such arts and elements of beauty attract a lot of tourism to our city.

street art in udaipur

 

street art in udaipur

 

street art in udaipur

 

street art in udaipur

 

street art in udaipur

 

street art in udaipur

I have listed down some of them, which I loved the most. Try to guess the locations of these by seeing the pictures, if you can. Also, tell me if I have missed any significant wall art anywhere in the city by mentioning the location in the comments below.

 

Photos By: Siddharth Nagar

Categories
Places to Visit

Dharohar: Reliving the heritage of Rajasthan

Dharohar: Reliving the heritage of Rajasthan

As Dharohar” means “Heritage”, the Dharohar show is an exclusive display of Rajasthan’s exquisite heritage and folk dance forms which are quite famous pan-India and have gained international recognition too. Tourists from various cities of India as well as from overseas come down to Rajasthan to sway with the mesmerizing dance forms accompanying vernacular vocals and music.Dharohar: Reliving the heritage of Rajasthan

The show is held in Bagore Ki Haveli, which is situated at Gangaur Ghat, is a 17th-century private mansion of Rajput royals and is now turned into a museum. The Dharohar show, in collaboration with West Zone Cultural Center (WZCC), is held every evening from 7 pm to 8 pm at Neem Chowk in Bagore ki Haveli. The show is running seamlessly every day since the last 17 years.

The show starts with artists singing folk songs of Rajasthan, which are indeed quite touching. Then the following listed dance forms are performed by skilled artists. Let us have an overview of the dance forms illustrated by the performers.

Chari DanceDharohar: Reliving the heritage of Rajasthan

The show starts with the Charri dance. Chari dance is one of the most popular folk dances in Northern Rajasthan, performed by women of Gujjar community of Kishangarh. This dance depicts the art of collecting water in a chari (earthen pot) by these women in their daily routine.

Dressed traditionally in colorful Rajasthani dresses, Gujjar Women perform the Chari dance on the beats of Rajasthani instruments like dhol, dholak, nagada etc which becomes one of the reasons for the attraction towards this dance. The dancers carry brass pots that are fire lit and dance keeping them on their heads.

Gawri Dance

Dharohar: Reliving the heritage of Rajasthan

Next, to the Chari dance, Gawri was performed. Gawari dance of southern Rajasthan is a tribal dance of the famous Bhil tribe. They move from places to places to perform this dance which is in a form of a drama. The dance shows a dynamic fight between the Goddess Amba and Devil Bhiamwal. The entire troupe dances around a central spot consecrated to the deity Amba.

Ghumar Dance

Dharohar: Reliving the heritage of Rajasthan

Often performed exclusively for ladies gathering, Ghumar is particularly a women’s dance. It was initially developed by the Bhil tribal community of Rajasthan but later adopted by various others as well. Known for its enthusiastic and traditional touch; Ghumar has not only built its name in India but also has gained international recognition and applaud.

This spectacular folk dance has derived its name from ‘ghoomna’ which means circling. Fascination starts when colors of the flowing ‘ghaghara’ (the long skirts) worn by the women dancers start to flow. Filled with oodles of grace, the skirt flair sways while the women twirl in circles, their faces covered with a ‘Ghoonghat’ or veil.

Terah Taal DanceDharohar: Reliving the heritage of Rajasthan

Terah Taal is a dance form which is performed by skilled artists; these are the Kamada Tribes who are traditional snake charmers. This intricate dance form comprises of tying thirteen little brass discs known as “Manjeeras” to various parts of their bodies and play Terah Taal or thirteen rhythms. They strike these manjeeras in 13 different styles with the ones they hold in their hands. This creates a soothing rhythm.

It is also performed religiously by devotees of Baba Ramdev temple at Runecha. Terah Taal is one of the most complex as well as the eye-pleasing folk dance of Rajasthan. Often swords in the mouths and pot on the heads are also balanced to create more magnificence in the dance form.

Kathputli Dance

Dharohar: Reliving the heritage of Rajasthan
Source: dharoharfolkdance.com

Bright colored beautiful clothes, sharp features, squeaking voices and quirky moves on the nimble fingers of the puppeteer is what a “Kathputli” is. A wooden structure derives its name from two different words of Hindi- ‘Kath’ meaning wood and ‘Putli’ meaning doll caters a large audience who love to see them dance.

Kathputli dance is one of the major attractions of the Rajasthani culture. It’s believed that “Putli Bhats” discovered this art form to entertain people in exchange for cash. The Maharajas of Rajasthan are known to have a great affinity towards this dance form and hence it flourished in those times.

Generally, three Kathputli are used in the show with a story line for the performance. Embellished with jewelry and other accessories, these puppets are attached to strings.

Bhavai Dance

Dharohar: Reliving the heritage of Rajasthan

The male musician playing the background music and beautifully adorned Bhavai artist dancing on melodious beats is a usual sight of this dance form at the Darohar Show. Ear-pleasing Rajasthani folk songs are sung adding to the beauty of this dance. Many instruments like pakhwaja, dholak, jhanjhar, sarangi, and harmonium are also played which gives the performance the added charisma.

This dance represents the enjoyment of Rajasthani women when she gets water in a desert after walking so long keeping so many vessels on her head. Artist also dances on the sharp edge of a metal plate and broken glasses.

Dharohar: Reliving the heritage of Rajasthan

The charges for the Dharohar show are as follows:

  • For Indians Rs. 90 per head
  • For Foreigner Rs. 150 per head
  • Per child Rs. 45
  • Any Camera Rs. 150

These eclectic dance forms in addition to the grandeur of the Rajasthan makes the Dharohar show a must watch. Rajasthan has different hues of its culture, a fascinating facet of which is its energetic and graceful dance forms. Various communities and their versatile dance forms depicting romance, valor, masculinity as well as sophistication leave the onlooker mesmerized.

At the Dharohar show, every dance form is a unique blend of a specific tribe or religion and is different with respect to its structure, style, and art form that can be seen in their costumes, pattern of dancing, makeup, jewelry and musical instruments. The Rajasthani vibrancy and splendid grandeur is an adjunct to some of the most priceless folk dance forms.

Dharohar: Reliving the heritage of Rajasthan

Late in 2000, Mr. Deepak Dixit (Founder of Dharohar) decided to bring the many facets of Rajasthani culture under one roof in order to revive and promote our rich heritage and art. This idea and the support of the director of West Zone Cultural Centre, Dr. Vishwas Mehta (IAS) was instrumental in the birth of “Dharohar”. (Source: dharoharfolkdance.com) Dharohar: Reliving the heritage of Rajasthan

 

Photos By: Siddarth Nagar and Fouzia Mirza

Categories
Lifestyle

Tie the Knot amidst the Royalty: Palatial Weddings in Udaipur

Palatial Weddings in Udaipur
Source: www.ankit.in

Rajasthan has been known for its perfectly themed, royal weddings. The state is the land of exotic castles, palaces, and rich cultural heritage. Udaipur, also known as the City of Lakes has a multitude of bright colors and endless places of interest. It is truly one of those places in the state that will leave you mesmerized with its charm and its regal grandeur. That is why Udaipur is a sought after place when it comes to a perfect wedding destination.

While there are a lot of places to have your dream wedding turn into reality, there are these four places that surely can leave a mark on your memory. For all those who dream to be a king or a queen on the day of their wedding, these four impeccably beautiful destinations in Udaipur are sure to make your marriage vows picture perfect. Have a look.

The City Palace Udaipur

Palatial Weddings in Udaipur
Source: Best Location Hotels

Shiv-Niwas Palace is an extension of the City Palace, which is a crescent-shaped palace, built in the early 20th century, during the reign of Maharana Fateh Singh. It gives a panoramic view of the city facing Lake Pichola. It certainly gives you an aura that delineates the royal majestic of the city and its history.

A perfect wedding destination, Shiv Niwas in the City Palace Udaipur gives you all the facilities and an ambiance of being served by the royalty. One can feel not less than a royal couple. There are other properties as well in the City Palace Udaipur where a grand a grand wedding can be held; those are, Jag Mandir Island Palace, Durbar Hall, Zenana Mahal and Manek Chowk.

Raas Devigarh

Palatial Weddings in Udaipur
Source: mahoutuk.com

Raas Devigarh is your ultimate destination for a picture perfect wedding. Earlier known as earlier as Delwara Fort Palace, Raas Devigarh is located amidst the lush hillocks. The wedding at Devigarh is a grand affair. Wedding are measured as one of the most celebrated events of one’s life. Every couple desires of celebrating their marriage in an imperial and majestic way. For a royal wedding, Raas Devigarh is a seamless destination for a magnificent wedding day.

Chunda Palace

Palatial Weddings in Udaipur
Source: instagram.com/chunda_palace

Fairytale weddings do come true! Chunda Palace brings to you indomitable environs for your dream wedding. The enigmatic beauty of the palace stands upright giving you a picturesque view of the city. Chunda Palace holds a significant rank when it comes to a royal wedding. The palatial façade of the Palace can captivate your guests and make unmatched memories as beautiful pictures.

Fatehgarh

Palatial Weddings in Udaipur
Source: fatehgarh.in

Wish to have a palatial wedding in a totally vintage aura? Yes, then Fatehgarh should be your pick. Built on a hilltop facing the city it offers luxury rooms and suites, extensive leisure facilities like Zip-Line, which is a unique feature offered by any hotel or resort in Udaipur. Well, undoubtedly Fatehgarh is an unimpeachable terminus for taking those holy vows.

A palatial wedding in Udaipur is all about that supreme experience of espousing in a princely manner. A royal chariot for a handsome groom and a palanquin for the mystic and beautiful bride; aren’t you in dreams already? Well, quite effortlessly all these dreams can come true when you plan a palace wedding in Udaipur.

Expert views on palatial weddings in Udaipur by Frozen Apple Events

Frozen Apple Events is one of the leading wedding planners in Udaipur. Their forte is holding splendid Palatial Weddings.

Palatial Weddings in Udaipur
Sahil Thakur

“Udaipur is known for its beauty and imperial repute. It is one of the best places to have a palace wedding; not just because it is scenic but also due to the fact that it holds some of the most beautiful Palaces and Palatial hotel property.

Many properties are famous across the world for their grandeur and people from everywhere flock to Udaipur to make their dream wedding come true. The amenities provided by these palatial properties are also world-class.

If you want to feel like a royal Maharaja, then you must plan a wedding at Udaipur.” – Sahil Thakur (Owner at Frozen Apple Events)

Categories
Travel

8 days, 5000 clicks, several videos: ‘A SUMMER IN UDAIPUR’

Udaipur is like a peaceful dream; a place called the City of Lakes amidst the land of sand, a city against all the odds. The very soul of the city was captured in a recent video clip named ‘A SUMMER IN UDAIPUR.’ It is the first of its kind video of Udaipur. It is a short clip of 3 minutes and 41 seconds delineating an arousing story of the city.

A mesh of inventive ideas, striking visuals, seamless editing, and the comforting soundtrack is what ‘A Summer in Udaipur’ is all about.

A SUMMER IN UDAIPUR

The sound of chirruping birds, people talking, the waves of the lakes and grandeur of the royalty of the city; A Summer in Udaipur expresses how beautiful can a place look even in the most parched and dried state of India. The city indeed is shown as a masterwork by the hands of nature. The video starts with a glimpse of a typical Rajasthani couple riding a bike. As the video finds its course, one can witness an immense aesthetic appeal. The soundtrack of the clip makes it all the more surreal. The video concludes on a quick note, leaving a mystical essence that compels the onlooker to press play again.

A SUMMER IN UDAIPUR
The Man Behind A SUMMER IN UDAIPUR- Ayush Dinker

The young and talented Ayush Dinker from Delhi is the artist behind the appealing and involving short clip shot on a trip through Udaipur and completed over the course of a month. He also runs a youtube channel named ‘Ethereal.’ Ayush traveled for more than a week through every nook and corner of the city along with UdaipurBlog’s Team from the morning before the dawn till evening, while working on this project.

A SUMMER IN UDAIPUR
A Still From The Video

The footage of ‘A SUMMER IN UDAIPUR’ was captured with a GoPro, Canon 6D Camera, Flycam Stabilizer, a microphone and three different lenses. The stills for the hyper lapses were shot handheld. The video is a mixture of match edits, in-camera effects, some hyper lapses, compositing shots and small video clips. Crash zooms, back-time cuts, picture inverses and light effects were also added to add a dramatic touch between the cuts. The real challenge was of stitching all these shots together while maintaining a fluid movement of the footage.

Nearly 5000 clicks and numerous clips and hyper lapses were taken during Ayush’s visit to the city of lakes. He traveled with our teammates to various parts of the city covering every little detail. Facing some troubles too, the video came out to be a spectacular one.

As per Ayush, whenever he used to hear about Rajasthan, he would think of some of the obvious places and the sweeping desert. He perceived Udaipur to be a small city which he knew less about.A SUMMER IN UDAIPUR

He further expresses his sight of the city as, in his words, “The moment I sat down beside Lake Pichola on a summer evening, I knew this place is beautiful with a flavor unmatched in this world. The vast expanse of a number of lakes and the magnificent palaces huddled with narrow city lanes is a synthesis to make you a guest here. No doubt the hotels are soaring high for the best view. Whether the city has any more romance left is for you to conclude.”

The video has achieved soaring views of about 250k on Facebook alone and is still a trending video in Udaipur.

A visually compelling masterpiece takes time, patience, dedication, talent, creative vision, and a lot of hard work. ‘A Summer in Udaipur’ can indeed elevate your senses and make you love your city even more. Have a look at the video

https://www.facebook.com/UdaipurBlog/videos/1329161160538838/ 

An initiative by UdaipurBlog in collaboration with Ethereal.

 

 

Categories
Places to Visit

Ahar cenotaph complex: A 4000-year-old Mausoleum at Udaipur

Ahar cenotaph complex
Ahar cenotaph complex

Did You Know a 4000-year-old Cremation Ground Exists in Udaipur?

Udaipur is known as the City of Lakes, undoubtedly there are beautiful lakes in the city. However, not just lakes, the city is also famous for its culture, heritage and its majestic palaces and architecture in and around the city. While the city houses some well-known structures, some places of significance are still not much known to the people as well as to the tourists turning up to the city.

 

Ahar cenotaph complex

 

One such place is Mahasatya (महासत्य) which is a huge royal cemetery. The cemetery is a matchless structure built for the royal family of Mewar dynasty in memory of their ancestors. The complex is located on eastern side of the city at a distance of 3 km from the central city; it is a well-known archeological site. Mahasatya is also one of the largest among other medieval Rajput cenotaph complexes covering an area of 3.2 hectares with peculiar royal heritage constituents. There are 372 cenotaphs in total out of which 21 are said to hold great significance. These domes were built over 400 years ago.

What Are These Structures And Why Were These Constructed?

Ahar cenotaph complex
cenotaphs

Mahasatya, principally, is a burial and a cremation ground. These structures are tombs of the royal family. It is believed that some of them are tombstones of the kings, while some are established as a memorial structure of the kings and their wives. Some of these structures constructed are small while some are quite enormous and majestic.

Architecture of the Cenotaphs Complex

 

Ahar cenotaph complex
Carvings at the pillars of cenotaphs

 

The complex has striking columns elevated on large platforms shielded by dome-shaped roofs. These platforms have several steps or stairs that make their way to the central domes of the Cenotaph.  Several pillars erected with intricate carvings on them sustain the domes. The inner walls of the structure have beautiful carvings of flowers and human figurines on them. The cenotaphs have structures known as ‘Chattri’ which is a common architectural sight in Rajasthan.

The moldings of the roofs are embroidered with embellishments that resemble the 15th-century temples. You can find an image of Lord Shiva and a figure representing Maharanas with their ‘Sati’ wives (wives, who sacrificed their lives in Maharana’s cremation flames). The top of the cenotaphs has ‘Shiv-Ling’ on them, with a statue of ‘Nandi Ji (cow).’

 

Ahar cenotaph complex

 

There are 21 Cenotaphs which hold the maximum importance, these are of Maharanas and have an inscription on them. There are some smaller cenotaphs which are of the royal family members and of the several wives of the Maharajas. All these massive structures are made from white marble stone.

Important Structures of the Complex

  • Cenotaph of Maharana Amar Singh

    Ahar cenotaph complex
    Maharana Amar Singh

The cenotaph which is devoted to Maharana Amar Singh is the most fascinating. It has a 4-faced figurine in the center, and the wall paintings on the subterranean vault illustrate the slaughter of the emperor’s wives who decided to commit “Sati.”

 

  • Cenotaph of Maharana Sangram Singh

    Ahar cenotaph complex
    Maharana Sangram Singh

The Cenotaph of Maharana Sangram Singh (Cenotaph completed in 1985) is another attraction that has fifty-six pillars in its porch. He was cremated here with his twenty-one wives. It has a beautiful construction. It possesses an octagonal dome in its center with the support of eight small pillars. The light falling on the dome gets directed by the octagonal dome and creates a mesmerizing shadow.

 

  • The Gangodbhava

Nearby to these cenotaphs is the “Gangodbhava” or the holy pool (‘kund’). The kund and the temple of Shiva have a four-faced ‘Linga,’ and are encompassed by small ‘Chattris; carry holy value and historical importance. The ‘kund’ is a step well, which is again a classic architectural style of the semi-arid regions of Rajasthan and Gujarat. These have small steps on four sides of the well, which lead to the inside of the well for collecting water.

 

Ahar cenotaph complex
Small Kund

 

The other cenotaphs include cenotaph dedicated to Shambhu Singh, Fateh Singh, Bhupal Singh, Bhagwat Singh Mewar and Sajjan Singh and have their names and other information inscribed on them. The newest, erected in 2004, is that of Udaipur’s last Maharana Bhagwat Singh (1955–84).

 

Ahar cenotaph complex
Maharana Bhagwat Singh

Ahar Archeological Museum

Ahar was also a site of an ancient settlement that preexisted in Udaipur by three-and-a-half millennia. Just 150 meters along the road from the royal cremation ground is the Ahar Archeological Museum. The museum contains copper and terracotta pottery objects that are more than 3300 years old. It also houses sculptures of Hindu gods and ‘tirthankars’ (Great Jain teachers) from the 8th to 16th centuries AD.

The Ahar culture is also known as the Banas culture. It was a Chalcolithic archaeological culture of southeastern Rajasthan state in India, lasting from 3000 to 1500 BCE.

 

Ahar cenotaph complex
Ahar Museum

The collections of antiques in the museum date back to the 10th century. Here you can see earthen pots, iron objects and other artifacts that used to be part of the lifestyle of prehistoric people. You can see a depiction of trenches that were used to be a part of the lives of the Ahar people. Some things are acknowledged to belong to 1700 B.C.

Even though this museum doesn’t have a lot of things, but the relics here were excavated and collected by the continuous attempts of the “Archeological department of Rajasthan.” A few things are proved to have been used in 1700 B.C. A metal statue of Lord Buddha that belongs to the 10th century is indeed a great thing to watch. In the midst of the collection of statuettes, a statue of “Vishnu-Nag-Nathan” is also a great wonder to watch.

 

Ahar cenotaph complex
Metal statue of lord buddha

 

Apart from these, there are various other remains excavated from the ruins of the civilization. These are terra cotta spindles, wheels, seals, cones, terra cotta skin scrubber, animal figurines, tiny pots, human figurines, bangles, ear ornaments, beads and balls that date back to the first century B.C. The terracotta toys and huge clay pots and few other utensils are revealed in the beautiful museum. The ornaments were also made of ivory that depicted an era of body decoration. Soak pits, about 2000-year-old, have also been discovered in one of the drains which portray the sense of hygiene among early historic people of this region.

 

Ahar cenotaph complex
Ahar Museum

Present Day at Mahasatya

This important heritage site is one of a kind. It reflects the regal grandeur of the Royal Rajasthan. The place is covered with unwanted shrubs and wild grass.

 

Ahar cenotaph complex
Ruins at Ahar cenotaph complex

 

Not many people are aware of the place’s significance. Some of the cenotaphs are in their ruins and are getting degraded. The area is not open to the public and is a private lodging of the Royal Family. Though some heritage walks were conducted at the place, people are still not aware of the reason behind these structures.

 

Ahar cenotaph complex
Ahar cenotaph complex

 

Photos By: Siddharth Nagar

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‘Udaipurwale’ celebrates its 2nd anniversary!

udaipurwale

As a ‘उदयपुरवाला,’ no one can deny knowing the much-acclaimed Facebook group of the city known as ‘Udaipurwale’. The Facebook group is a revolutionary one and one of its kind in the city. Today, the group celebrates its second anniversary. They say that behind a successful man there is a woman. The foundations of the hyperlocal group were laid when the admin was searching a particular thing for his wife. The founder, Mr. Zaheer Abbas tells in an interview, “The idea came to my mind while searching a particular thing for my wife. I thought there should be a single platform where I can ask and my friends get to know my needs and they help me find that particular thing.”

udaipurwale

Well, after this incident he started the group Udaipurwale which was formerly known as Ask.Find.Udaipur. The Facebook aimed at being a landmark in the domain of “community help”, which solves common problems of the residents of the city. The Facebook group is a hyperlocal community, where people of Udaipur can ask and find anything. From professional needs to suggestions and reviews of local businesses, Udaipurwale is a hit in rendering answers to all the queries. The Facebook group runs on a zero profit scheme. Approximately 71,000+ members are in the group.

Last year Udaipurwale organized a free blood group test camp to mark their first anniversary.

Today Udaipurwale has become Udaipur’s most popular Facebook group. The group is highly responsive and has an active participation of members and moderating team.

The Facebook group celebrated its 2nd anniversary week in a very interesting manner by organizing a series of Online Contests on the forum. The contests began on 15th May at all three groups of Udaipurwale (Udaipurwale, Udaipurwale Foodies and Udaipurwale Women) with a Photo With Maa Contest followed by 4 word Horror Story, True False, Identify the Location, Selfie with Makeup,Selfie without Makeup, Food Decoration, Spot the Difference, Photography, Debate etc. Nearly 55 brands and businesses joined hands with Udaipurwale to sponsor gifts for winners. The gifts were in form of cash vouchers and discount coupons. The summation of the total prize money went around 13 lacs, which is a big amount for a Facebook Group to give away. Excitingly, all sponsors were also group members.

Udaipurwale has become a major source of discovering almost everything thing, from a particular place or people of any profession to selling or buying particulars in and around Udaipur.

zaheer abbas

In an interview, Zaheer said, “Online communities and evolving of social network always allure me.” His inclination towards social network and an aspiration to provide solutions to the community has evolved a group, or one can say a platform that renders help to everyone at a much greater level.

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पी.एस.के ऑफिस पर चढ़ी धूल, लोगों को बना रहें हैं फूल (fool)!!!

delayed inauguration of psk in udaipur
inauguration of psk in udaipur

पी.एस.के ऑफिस पर चढ़ी धूल, लोगों को बना रहें हैं फूल (fool)!!!

उदयपुर पासपोर्ट सेवा केंद्र (पी.एस.के) श्रीमती वसुंधरा राजे का इंतज़ार करते करते धूल खा रहा है। श्रीमती राजे, जो की पी.एस.के का उद्घाटन करने आने वाली थीं, फ़िलहाल विधान सभा के सत्रों में व्यस्त हैं।
उद्घाटन की तिथि दो बार(Maybe More!!!!) कैंसिल हो चुकी है, जिसका कारण ‘technical issues’ बताया गया है। 3 मार्च 2017 से खिसक खिसक के उत्घाटन की तिथि 25 मार्च 2017 तक आ गयी थी। होली के बाद होने वाला यह पासपोर्ट सेवा केंद्र का उद्घाटन अब तक हो नही पाया है।
मजदूरों से तो बड़ी तेज़ी से पासपोर्ट सेवा केंद्र ऑफिस के ‘finishing touches’ दिलवा दिए गये, फिर उद्घाटन में इतनी देरी क्यों लग रही है? लोगों की आशाओं पर पानी फेरते हुए, सरकार के यह वादे झूंठे लग रहें हैं। बेचारे शहरवासी गर्मी में रोज़ पी.एस.के पहुँचते हैं, और खली हाथ लौट आते हैं। सिर्फ लोग ही नहीं, यहाँ तक की सार्वजनिक प्रतिनिधि भी पासपोर्ट सेवा केंद्र के उत्घाटन की आस बंधे खड़े हैं।

delayed inauguration of psk in udaipur
Sushma Swaraj’s tweet about PSK in Udaipur Earlier this February

पहले, सुषमा स्वराज उदयपुर पासपोर्ट सेवा केंद्र का उद्घाटन करने वालीं थी। उन्होंने यह ट्वीट भी किया था। उनके बाद जनरल वी.के. सिंह, फिर श्रीमती वसुंधरा राजे जी उद्घाटन  करने आने वालीं थी।
सूत्रों की माने तो अभी तक की ‘latest updates about PSK in Udaipur’ यही है की उसका उद्घाटन किसी आगे की तिथि पर रखा गया है (जो की एक unknown date है)।

 

delayed inauguration of psk in udaipur
Udaipur on PSK Website, Yet to be Inaugurated

आपका क्या मान ना है नीचे कमेंट करे एंड इस पोस्ट को ट्वीट करे सुषमा मैडम, वसुंधरा मैडम को ताकि वो भी जाने हम उदयपुरवालो का दुख

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Swachh Survekshan 2017: Udaipur ranked 310 out of 434 cities!

Swachh Survekshan 2017: Udaipur ranked 310 out of 434 cities!

Udaipur has found its place at #310 out of 434 cities in the survey, Swachh Survekshan 2017. Indore is ranked as the cleanest city in India while Gonda in Uttar Pradesh was ranked as the dirtiest in the same survey. The Swachh Survekshan 2017 was conducted in 434 cities and 37 lac Indian citizens participated in it making it the largest survey conducted by the government.

Talking about the other cities of our state; Bundi came out to be the cleanest city with a rank of 171 followed by Sikar-180, Pali-186, and Jodhpur-209 while the capital city Jaipur was at 215th rank. Udaipur ranked 13th out of 29 cities examined in Rajasthan.

Swachh Survekshan 2017 was based on the results obtained on grounds of the ongoing efforts to make urban areas free of open defecation and to improve the door-to-door collection, processing, and disposal of Municipal Solid Waste. Of the total score of 2,000,900 marks were assigned for performance in respect of ODF and solid waste management, 600 marks for Citizen Feedback and 500 marks for Independent Observation.

The Union minister for urban development, M Venkaiah Naidu said that UP, Bihar, Rajasthan, Punjab and Kerala need to substantially step up efforts to improve sanitation standards in urban areas.

The top ten clean cities in India as per the survey are:

  1. Indore
  2. Bhopal
  3. Vishakhapatnam
  4. Surat
  5. Mysuru
  6. Tiruchirapally
  7. New Delhi Municipal Council
  8. Navi Mumbai
  9. Tirupati
  10. Vadodara

Udaipur, as perceived, is a clean city.  However, the survey findings seem to contradict the city’s belief. Seeing the bright side, Udaipur was ranked 417 out of 476 cities surveyed in last August; the rank has dropped down to 310 in the current survey. This is better than the last time, but efforts must be made to make our city cleaner.

Swachh Survekshan 2017: Udaipur ranked 310 out of 434 cities!
A depictive Image of Swaroop Sagar