With two Big resolutions of making the Lakecity Clean and Green & to make Udaipur a Smoke Free City, a rally “walk for lakecity” was organized by Dainik Bhaskar & Pacific University [Hotel Management Institute] on 27th September, World Tourism Day to Promote Brand Udaipur. This rally started from Motimagri, wherein many big personalities like Rajni Dangi, mayor of udaipur, Mr.Hemant Gera, Collector , Mr.Sudhir Mishra, Executive Director, Bhaskar Udaipur, Mr. Ajeet V. Jhony [Unit head], Dr.Parul Mathur, director of hotel management PU, Mr.Ashwini Nayar, GM Sheraton, Mr. Harish Rajani, Sunrise joined. The girls from RMV also accompanied this cause. Many clubs supported this walk. The walk ended with Folk Dance performances and Paper Bag Distribution.
Today it’s World Tourism Day; an exceptionally important day for tourism in the entire world.
India places itself in the top visited countries by the tourists, thus, Tourism day is momentous to the country. India has for long been a sightseer’s paradise, that the magnificent opportunities it offers the tourists often tend to be overlooked.
The City of Lakes, Udaipur in the historically glorious state of Rajasthan stands in the list of most beautiful places in the world. It is one of the favourite tourist destinations amongst the people. Udaipur being “The Kashmir of Rajasthan” fusing a bundle of wonders in it is one of the destinations which populace of any age would love to visit.
It is the main attraction for the people to stopover and relinquish themselves in the exquisiteness and the essence of this place.
The winsomeness of this city is on its peak after the monsoons as it has overflowing lakes, an ambrosial weather and a lush green environment which also makes it a romantic destination.
A conglomeration of hotels and restaurants with their luxurious and exotic facilities for the tourists is the best part.
Here, sightseeing can be done at various places. Apart from the natural beauty, the heritage culture of Udaipur is also of great importance. Places like The City Palace, the Sajjanghar fort, Baghor ki Haweli, Jagdish Temple, Saheliyo ki Badi etc. preserve a heritage culture and are of great prestige to the people of Udaipur.
Renowned by the numerous lakes present here, some of which are Fatehsagar, Pichola, Swaroop sagar, Govardhan sagar, Udaisagar, Badi lake, Jaisamand, Bada Madaar, Chota Madaar, thus, Udaipur holds a remarkable place in its exotic beauty and culture.
Nattiness has become an important issue for the city now days. Lakes are very essential sources for water supply in Udaipur. This lake water is used by the local hoods for drinking and other household purposes. The basic problem that is arising is related to the sanitation of the lakes. People without caring throw wastes in the water which makes the lakes filthy. This in turn pollutes the water and causes water to stink and increases mosquito breeding in it. This affects the environment to a great extent and leads to health problems in the horde.
Thus, being a tourist destination, the government along with the localites should keep an eye on the sterility of the lakes as well as the surroundings. They should actively participate in keeping the city clean. The lakes should be regularly cleaned and fogging should be done so as to prevent any mosquito breeding in the water. Trashes should be placed at a fixed distance for proper garbaging. Hoardings for no throwing of wastes in water should be put everywhere in the surroundings of water. Strict actions should be taken against the ones who throw anything in water.
Apart from the lakes, udaipies should try to keep the city green too as the natural beauty of Udaipur has depreciated a lot in the last few years due to the infrastructural development of the city. Planting as much trees as possible in compensation to the trees cut down for other purposes is the best and the only way to save the natural beauty. Roads should be made wider and tree plantation should be done along their sides.
Also the transport system in Udaipur needs to be paid attention. Besides the train and air services, proper conveyance facilities in the city area itself should be provided for the betterment of the city.
These primary things if kept in mind and followed by every citizen of Udaipur would help a lot in aggravating the elegance and beauty of our city and will ultimately enhance tourism in Udaipur. So, go clean and green.
Well, start contributing your share from today and enjoy the charm, soup and beauty of Udaipur. Once again Happy World Tourism Day to everyone. 🙂
Mr. Madhukar Dube | Managing Director, Fusion eSolutions LLC, USA
In the previous part, we discussed about the IT sector, developments, requirements, and problems the IT Sector is facing in Udaipur. For those, who are new to this article, let me introduce to you a concerned Udaipurite, and one of the pioneers of the IT sector in Udaipur: Mr. Madhukar Dube, Managing Director, Fusion eSolutions LLC, USA. In this part, he speaks about the education system, regarding the necessary reforms it needs and what the IT sector needs out of it. Also, speaking about himself, sharing his views over the society, and our own City of Lakes. So not wasting a moment in the introduction, I’m continuing with the UB’s Gangs of Wasseypur Part 2 😀
• We have been talking about the IT infrastructure, challenges and lots more. Major highlighted issue that came up was lack of efficient manpower. That in a way points to the current education system and society too. Isn’t it?
Absolutely, the education system has greatly deteriorated in the present time. The teaching profession too is suffering at large. Let’s take a simple calculation. Every year new colleges have been opening in our country. To teach so many students, we need teachers. But are we producing the required quantity of quality teachers too? Certainly not!! Once a person is qualified enough, good companies like us for example or companies based in I.T hubs like Bangalore, Hyderabad & Gurgaon will pull you out from your college itself with attractive packages and incentives. But there are scarcely any who wish to teach others. I still remember two guys who resigned from Fusion just because they wanted to teach, and I believe they are doing better in their teaching career than they could do in Fusion. My parents have been teachers so I do appreciate the feeling, as I know that teaching profession needs a class apart and a different temperament which sadly is lacking today.
• Mostly, the education sector is now focused on anyhow getting admissions into the IITs. How far you think it is right? Or it is simply becoming a rat race instead of a trend?
I think I may have answered this question above but let me go into greater detail. Getting into IIT is not a panacea in itself. If you are a student who lacks zeal and a clear focus then you simply cannot get quality education anywhere, leave alone admission into IIT’s. Our society has put so much pressure on the words “success” and “packages” that the vulnerable student fraternity gets “pushed” into this rat race. They won’t know it, but they would be in that race.
This is destroying creative thinking and the next generation. I would quote Forest Long of the Young & Rubicam ad agency who famously said in 1971 “A mind is a terrible thing to waste”. So true!!
I am not an engineer, neither I have been into IITs. I have completed my B.Sc in Computer Science from Jain Vishwa Bharti University, and I am an OCP (Oracle Certified Professional) and have done a three year course from Aptech. But I had the good fortune of having the support and blessings of great mentors who changed my life, taking a moment to acknowledge with respect, Mr. Mohan Lal Talesara, Swami Sir, and Rekha Jain Ma’m, they ignited the passion in me for computers and pushed it into a right direction. I already had a budding interest for computers, but wasn’t good at programming. On the other hand, I was good at system designing and database, so they pushed me in that direction. And the outcome is what I am today. I am proud having been blessed with great parents who never forced me for anything.
My message to youth is do what your heart says and follow your own instincts. If you do not understand my message at least watch the Aamir Khan starrer “3 Idiots”. I think that would drive home my point!!
Mr. Madhukar Dube | Managing Director, Fusion eSolutions LLC, USA
• What do you feel about the City of Lakes?
Udaipur is a very beautiful city and has been a lucky charm for me of course. But like I said above, this city has the potential of getting catapult into a different league altogether. If the polity and policy makers put their head into preparing a vision for the year 2025, put their honest efforts into it and come out with the required ecosystem to drive growth, I am sure Udaipur would be shining on the world map.
We have to think ahead. Relying on tourism and mineral industry won’t get us into a different league. We have to develop the vision to include different industry segments, give them the required ecosystem to flourish backed by honest governance.
This in my view will be our fitting tribute to our ancestors who established Udaipur. One person can always bring a change to entire society. Despite of 100 driving carelessly, if one starts driving carefully with a helmet on or driving in a correct lane etc, rest of 99 can get a good example, and soon those 100 will influence the other 1000. Change is never instantaneous, its gradual, we must be patient.
• There have been myths/rumours of another recession coming up in near future. What would you like to say for the high school students or those who are stepping into college life from school for choosing IT as a profession?
Recession and Bullish-Bearish market will always be there at all times. To note, the maximum rise in Facebook was observed during 2009 to 2011, which was during the recession period itself. So stop following other’s footsteps or advice or rumours, there won’t be any recession for a talent ever.
• We have been talking about society, social awareness and reforms. What improvements or amendments in your views are needed in today’s hour in the society?
If I were to point out the top three things which are hindering the growth of India, they would be “lack of governance”, “corruption” and “lack of discipline”. Start with minor things, when you overtake a driving vehicle from the wrong side or when you cross the road when it is red signal, you are disturbing the whole system.
Government comes up with policies but due to poor governance, lack of accountability and corruption the fruits of development do not reach the lowest levels of the society. As a nation we end up squandering opportunities. Minor ego issues and leg pulling among us distort the larger vision.
During my recent visit to U.S, I found that people do consult psychiatrists, despite having an easier life (that’s what I think) compared to us Indians. But here these things fail, as we live a dual life. This is another great social problem. We never speak up what we like or dislike. We would rather complain to a third person than speaking directly to the concerned person. We have a policy here, “Jhooth toh hum bolte nahi, aur sach bola jaata nahi”. And thus, we daily lie to ourselves. We need to give a frank opinion about what we feel is wrong. We need to grow up and act mature as a society.
• What are your plans for the society for its betterments?
Like I said, society needs improvements that will gradually bring upon a change. I wish to do something for the education of poor children, as well as those who dropped out of their education due to reasons outside of their control. We have also adopted the ITI Mavli, and will be starting new courses for the vocational training of students to meet employment opportunities. Education is the only way for betterment, and achieving that will be my primary aim.
• Having talked about the incredible Madhukar Dubey at a professional level, can we get a sneak peak of him at a personal level?
I am passionate about music. Not many might know but not long ago I used to be a professional DJ (Disc Jockey) and mind you I was very good at it. I used to rank amongst the best DJ’s at one point of time. I am an avid sports lover and my favorite sports include Basketball, Hockey and Volleyball. I was awarded the Presidential medal for being a top scout when I was in school. I love mountains and was selected and participated in the Himalayan Base Camp when I was just 17 years old!! Every year I take time out to go for some kind of adventure sports like in June went for ‘rafting’ at Ton river in Uttarakhand. I am proud and lucky that I am blessed by true visionary parents who did their best making me realize my dreams. My father’s principles are mine and I follow them to last bit. My lovely wife Shweta has always motivated me to better myself. My son Yashovardhan is growing up and like me has a passion for electronics. Any toy I buy for him, he dismantles them within no time to understand their inner working. He is my heart. My brother, Himkar, is a pillar of strength for me and his lovely wife Anjali is someone I truly respect. My friends Siddharth Chouhan (DON Ji), Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar(Boss), Anuj, Manoj Dugar, Dheeraj Malhotra, Rohit Gupta & Raju Surana are very few people who have been with me in every up & down.
• Last, but not the least, your word for UdaipurBlog as well as its readers please
Honestly, I was waiting for such a news blog to come out from Udaipur created by Udaipurites. Your team which is full of young and creative minds is doing a fantastic job. I am glad you have a loyal base of avid readers who feel they are part of this endeavour. I wish the whole team of UdaipurBlog and its Readers all the success in the world!! While I work tirelessly towards achieving my dreams I would always solicit your prayers in helping me realizing them. Your blog is something non-political, non nepotism, aggressive, looking for new places to hangout and above all very pure from heart. Be that always…words go around. Jai Mewar!!
The perfect paradigm is Udaipur (City of Beauty). I wonder if it was the very place from where Puck got the Love Juice as guided by Oberon putting the same on the eyelids of the person making them tall in abysmal Love with the person they see first (Opening their eyes), and so is Udaipur, the Love, from aeon, of one and all.
The ambiance is the panacea, it mollifies insurmountable pangs and takes us to the zenith of Love and Peace. The real beauty that ensnares your heart and soul.
The chaos of this city is bounded by the strings of peace. Every heart has got its blood mixed with Love, Care and Emotion. It’s the path that leads you to the ever ending space of beauty; the place on earth where you need no reason for feeling Euphoria; where the smile on every face counts no reason for its resistance.
The youth so full of recent fashion silhouette and young hearts throbbing for each other and many alike. A place where Love resides in the hearts and respect in the eyes for our elders.
Being here for last 6 years has actually made me to count those days, moments to remember and ever lasting beauty that will never sweep away from my heart.This is the best gift that I have ever been blessed with.
Mr. Madhukar Dube, Managing Director, Fusion eSolutions Pvt. Ltd.
Entrance to the IT Park
Udaipur has evolved as a tourism city and marked a great presence worldwide. Even to my surprise, I came to know many facts about Udaipur, for it has many “WOW” factors apart from only tourism, after I became a part of UdaipurBlog.com Team. The rich Mewar Culture, the presence of mineral rich places, mines, of being a marble hub, as well as a booming IT city, the solar observatory, and many more. Wait! Yes, if you came across it for the first time like I did recently and can’t believe your eyes, you still got it right. Udaipur has also left a great impression globally in the IT industry. There’s a separate IT park too in the Mewar Industrial Area of Udaipur aka Madri. Once I came across this fact, believe me I became curious to know more about how could an IT industry grow, or to be honest with words, survive in a comparatively smaller and technologically unremarkable (as of then) city than big metros. Gathering all information I could, I came across the names of few big players which are successfully venturing, and a name among them was that of Fusion Outsourcing Pvt Ltd. On my request for an interview with “The Boss” with utmost curiosity and nervousness, I was granted an appointment with Mr. Madhukar Dubey, (Managing Director) at Fusion Outsourcing. Entering into the IT Park itself was a jaw dropping experience, being into a part of city that was earlier wasn’t thought to exist on the map, and being there felt like being somewhere out of the city entirely. The entire place has a separate calmness and ambiance. Then I happened to meet this ever smiling and inspiring person, whose warm and friendly gesture made me forget that it was my first ever interview, Mr. Madhukar Dubey aka Madhu Dube. Anyways, enough for the personal feelings sections, now here’s an interview based on series of discussions with him.
• First of all, thanks for the appointment. Being here has been a different experience. Coming to the main point, many people still believe that IT Industries don’t exist in Udaipur, as even I used to think few time back. For an icebreaking stuff, Please tell us how did Fusion evolve.
Fusion started out as a proprietorship concern in October 2005. We rented a small office space at Akruti Complex near Saheli Marg. Our very first projects were in the BPO space which helped us gain traction and keep the ball rolling. October 2006 saw us converting into a Private Limited Company from a proprietorship concern. We deliberately kept the company name starting it with the term “Fusion” which means combining many parties, entities or objects to form something new and thus Fusion Outsourcing Software Private Limited came into play. With our sustained efforts we grew very fast and soon rented out three additional office spaces in the same office complex. June 2008 again saw us shifting base to the I.T Park (Mewar Industrial Area Extension) wherein we managed to rent out a big space so that we could bring all of our different teams sitting in separate offices under one single roof with state of the art facilities and superior office infrastructure. With the grace of god, my parents blessings and above all real hard work by the team has pushed us forward wherein currently we are employing 100+ professionals. We are a proud member of NASSCOM, CII & TiE.
Mr. Madhukar Dube, Managing Director, Fusion eSolutions LLC, USA
• That means more than six years? Wow! So what all spheres of IT does Fusion deal with?
We are essentially an integrated I.T Services Provider. Our business verticals include Social Media Research & Analytics, I.T Consulting & Development, Business Process Outsourcing services to name a few.
To elaborate on our business verticals, in Social Media Research & Analytics we are providing in-depth Research Reports and Strategy Consulting to many Fortune 500 companies. We make use of cutting edge technology to extract real-time data from different Social Media platforms like Blogs, Facebook, Twitter etc and analyze huge loads of data to arrive at a refined set of parameters to base our study on.
These research reports add tremendous value for our clients and enable them to understand the impact of their marketing efforts so they can make informed decisions going forward. We do not stop there. Based on our analysis we go a step further and provide consulting on how they should approach their product development, product launch and address the latent needs of their consumer base.
In a nutshell we provide our Fortune 500 clients end-to-end Research & Consulting Services based on the Social Media Sphere. It’s a niche service offering wherein we were ranked the 5th Best Service Provider in the entire world in Investment Research by the U.S based Data Monitor Group.
Our I.T Consulting & Development vertical has enabled clients spread all over the world in adding value to their operations. We have developed end-to-end solutions primarily for Healthcare & Banking, Financial Services and Insurance (also known as BFSI) Industry segments. Our web development vertical has created a niche of its own with aesthetically appealing web design and Web 2.0 solutions. With Mobile App development we have entered a sunrise industry segment. Our HTML 5 based solutions are powering our client’s future needs today.
Our Business Process Outsourcing offerings have done wonders to client’s operational efficiencies. We provide Virtual Staffing Solutions to Small and Medium sized businesses based in U.S, EU & Australia. It has contributed greatly towards minimizing their manpower costs and our virtual staff has succeeded in becoming an integral part of their overall process. We also provide Medical Billing solutions to U.S based Hospitalist groups.
• Everyone rushes out for big cities like Mumbai, Bangalore as they are big finance and IT capitals of the country. Why did you go against the stream and choose Udaipur?
India till the 90’s was considered a poor nation full of snake charmers and cows dotting the streets. This perception changed after liberalisation which unleashed the nation’s entrepreneurship and our Industry peers TCS, Infosys & Wipro gave credence to this changed image. We were suddenly shining on the world map. This is when Bangalore came up on the horizon which quite ironically till the 90’s was considered to be a heaven for Retirees. Udaipur which shines on the World’s tourist map sadly stood nowhere on the I.T map when I started the company. Though it may sound farfetched as of now but I will not be surprised if in a few years Udaipur becomes the Silicon Valley of the northern states. It has all the potential. The need is to “believe” that we can do it. I am proud to share that last year a study conducted by the Industry Association ASSOCHAM ranked Udaipur No.5 among the top tier II & III cities in terms of employment growth in the I.T Industry. This is welcome news among all the gloom that is surrounding the I.T Industry in the rest of India. I strongly believe in this dream of bringing Udaipur on the World I.T map and leaving no stone unturned to fulfill this dream.
• That accounts for the wonderful delights connected with this company. Speaking about the darker side, what all challenges did you have to face since the establishment phase?
As an individual I love my country and I love my town. But when it comes to establishing an enterprise there are numerous hurdles. Infrastructure bottlenecks such as absence of good quality bandwidth, uninterrupted supply of electricity, well set up I.T incubator facilities, friendly government agencies all frustrate an entrepreneur. As an entrepreneur all I need is infrastructure which matches the standards set in major I.T hubs, fast approval of regulatory compliance’s and continuous flow of good quality manpower. Unfortunately I find them all missing.
Come to the I.T Park where we are located. In fact it is not a I.T Park in the true sense of the word. The .T Park is just adjacent to a busy industrial area known as Madri where there are numerous chemical factories spewing toxic acids and gases in the air, soapstone factories throwing dust and powder in the vicinity, due to the presence of factories heavy vehicles ply in the I.T Park which have caused numerous accidents, pathetic roads, government agencies whose officials throw tantrums for simple paperwork in the expectation of getting their palms greased and what not. The quality of manpower sadly is below par. Out of every 100 candidates we interview, not even 6-7 are fit for employment.
Chimneys emitting harmful fumes
I must admit these are sorry state of affairs.
• Okay, so who is to be blamed for this?
The whole ecosystem is flawed to start with. The education system which is responsible for producing the required manpower lacks quality teacher. The syllabus is primitive and what is taught is not what the Industry requires. A recent study pointed out that out of every 100 engineering students who pass out, only 17 are fit for further “training”. Mind you, I am not saying they are fit to be “employed”. Employment comes later, first the students need to be trained so that they can become “employable”. We end up doing the job which our education system should be doing. The mushrooming of new universities, colleges and institutions doesn’t mean we have also improved on the count of employable manpower. In fact the opposite is true. The institutes who do not have adequate infrastructure and quality teachers are producing “human robots” which are incapable of applying their own brain when it comes to practical thinking. This is injustice to the students who enroll themselves in colleges looking at the full page advertisements claiming 100% placements and when they pass out they find themselves unemployable in the industry stream they have got graduated from.
B.Tech(Mech. Engg) pass outs are applying for the posts of Data Entry Operators. Isn’t this injustice!!
I also find the students lacking in zeal and in clear focus. The race to earn a quick buck without putting in sustained and laborious efforts and the many worldly distractions hinder their employability and career growth.
• Any memorable incident that occurred to you till date?
Yes, something very memorable I would like to mention. I generally spend 10 days outside Udaipur every year, traveling alone. That’s the time I plan new strategies for the company. The incident occurred in 2006 when my life took few undesired turns and I had to undergo a bitter experience at both personal level (had a bad breakup) as well as professionally wherein I had suffered huge losses. I went to Goa for a change. On my way, I found this young foreigner – Tobias, who was looking to hitch hike to a hotel. I shared my auto rickshaw with him. On the way we became friends, and came to know he was from Norway, and has travelled 5 countries before India, and amazingly was just 19 years of age! When asked about budget, he said he came here with a plan of only Rs. 600 per day. For a place like Goa and for a foreigner, this is extremely low. He just told me one inspiring thing, “Anything can fit in any budget, provided it is planned perfectly”. For the entire time of about 10 days I was with him, I was amazed that this young guy, he was so enthusiastic and energetic; he never stopped for a moment, kept on doing something or the other, slept in a hut with just a bulb and fan, even on beach with a blanket only. I spoke to myself if he can stay happy, why can’t I? That was my life turning event. After my return, I worked really very hard for Fusion, redesigned the management, distributed work among my team members, gave them responsibilities, trusted them and that’s how we grew. Our stats speak for ourselves.
• That’s incredible. So how do you rate yourself as a boss?
The first and foremost thing, there is no word ‘employee’ at Fusion. Everyone is a team member. I am proud to have a huge loving team. My first team member, Dinesh Nagda, and the second to join me, Rohit Gupta, are both still around. A work friendly environment gives them a good boost. The attrition rate too has been low comparatively for the same reason. I don’t allow anyone to work for more than eight hours, and every Friday and Saturday, there are compulsory sports at our premises in the evening. I keep them saying and following one sentence “Your parents never gave birth to you to lose. They dreamt of you to be a winner, so be that and strive for it”
PS: That’s it for the 1st part, stay tuned for the next. Till then, share your views, also if you like this post share it on Facebook, Twitter
The first thing I always noticed about it was the smell…The unique earthy smell of the early morning soil around me. I would inhale it wholly and it would make me feel like walking in heaven. Then came the mountains. Those huge, rocky and mysterious looking mountains which held many a stories in my mind’s eye. After which I always looked at the trees in those mountains. Tall, lush green trees; their leaves glistening in the morning light. And as the train would whizz past these captivating scenes, the verdant grass, my heart would start thumping madly in its chest. That feeling of anticipation!! I would glance at my brother sitting across me at the window seat, looking outside with an almost similar expression to mine on his face, his eyes shining in excitement. We would smile at each other and mentally transmit our thoughts, “It’s coming…!”
It is perhaps extremely difficult to describe how exactly I feel for Udaipur and what importance does it hold in my life in one article. That would probably require a whole book. But the above description is apt on how I would always remember arriving at the city. Me and my elder brother would get up early in the wee hours of the morning, cramp ourselves in the window seat of the train and just spend a few hours looking at the environment around us; soaking in each and every little scene before we got down at the station.
It’s been five years now since I last visited Udaipur. But there was a time when a year wouldn’t go by and I hadn’t spent a month of my life in the beautiful city. As I grew up, things changed around me and now I find it difficult to take out a few days from my schedule to visit the place. How have things changed…!! However something that wouldn’t change is my love for the city. And these days, I for some reason, increasingly crave to be back to the simple soothing lanes of the place. That is the reason I try here to recollect some of my memories of the place from the wholesome montage I have of it.
Now I shall not write about its entrancing palaces and other stuff which can easily be found on the internet by better writers than me. Let me try and pen down some of the places which made a huge impact on my psyche and made me realize the finer little things of life.
FatehSagar:
No description of Udaipur would ever be complete without a mention of Fateh Sagar. The lake might not be one of the most beautiful around, but it sure has something about it. I am certain all from the city of Udaipur have their own special memory of it. Mine was quite simple. Sitting there with my cousins as the cool and high breeze would slap my face, watching the evening sun go down; looking at the sparkling water creating small waves and losing myself in them. Then of course, there were those ‘chaat waalahs’ nearby, whom I would never miss to try out. That was how I remember the lake, and that is how I want it to remain.
Gulab Bagh:
This absolutely stunningly beautiful garden cum zoo perhaps holds the most significant of all my memories related to Udaipur. I remember going down there as a kid with my mother and aunts. Holding her hands I would gape at the squirrels scurrying about in the dense tress and make my own world in them. As I grew up, I would go there for early morning walks with my cousins. It was fun; strolling around the park, sitting and feeling in the pure and fresh surroundings around me. Sheer bliss.
I also have fond memories of the zoo connected to it. The most vivid of them all is when I once went there with my ‘nanaji’ and witnessed a ferocious fight between a tiger who was pawing away madly at the cage next to his that had a lion – lioness in it, who looked equally mad. I never forgot that scene, two of the most ferocious big cats ready to tear each other apart. That was really cool. I went there many a times again as a teenager, but was sad to find out its deteriorating condition.
But the name Gulab Bagh is etched forever in my memory.
Railway Station:
The ‘Udaipur City’ railway station. You would probably find it surprising that I mention a railway station of all the places here. However it has its own special place in my memory. Firstly, the fact that I always loved looking at the deep yellow and black bold letters of the name of the city which greeted me as the train entered the station. It gave me a feeling of warm pleasantness. I would also keep coming at the station just to have a look around, since I was a kid. The spick and clean floors, the enticing magazine stall, the fresh snacks which were available and even looking at the small tracks; I loved them all. Those tracks weren’t just normal tracks connecting trains from everywhere; they connected a vast montage of memories to my soul too.
Food:
Yes. I can safelyclaim that Udaipur brought out the foodie in me. I can’t name enough places here to describe the wide array of sumptuous delights available throughout the city. What I loved most about the food was that like its people it had a certain amount of simplicity and freshness about it. The ‘Paav Bhaaji’ at Town Hall, or puri – daal which was found in an eatery in Udiapole, or the very own ‘daal baati churma’, pani puri, paratha – dahi and other lovable delights like rabri that can be easily found in different nooks and corners of the city.
There was also a hotel called ‘Neelam’, the name of the locality escapes me, but I had wonderful memories of eating there with my cousins. The food was so simple yet mouth-watering. My fascination with ‘paneer’ took birth in this small restaurant.
I can’t finish this without mentioning the gulab jamuns. I don’t know which shop my Nanaji bought them from, but they sure were simply delicious. Small, soft, round and dripping with chaashni, I would greedily gulp down dozens in one go and they just melted in my mouth. They just don’t make it like that here.
As I mentioned, these are just a tiny part of my fascinating memories from Udaipur. There are just so many places and memories that it’s a task in itself to edit out these from the whole assemblage. Be it hanging out in Sukhadia Circle, strolling through the lanes of Bapu Bazaar, Udiapole and Surajpole, visiting those peaceful and small ‘mandirs’ located high up in the mountains, messing around the slopes of Dudh Talai, or exploring the wonders of Shilpgram. Then there are wonderful recollections from visiting that marvelous City Palace, or the breathtaking Sajjan Garh or gawking at the amazing beauty of Raj Samand Lake. To mention them all and their effect on me would really require a book.
However, more than the material aspects, what attracted me more toward Udaipur was that simplistic charm it exuded. It provided me a catharsis of pent-up emotions; gave me the opportunity to fly and live the life of a different being, allowed me to break the shackles around me, quite different from the constricted life I used to lead. I would roam around the small lanes of my colony there as a teenager; looking at the chaste Hindi names the shops would have and slurp away merrily at the ‘chuski’ from the corner ‘kiraane ki dukan’, without a care in the world. This probably came from the infectious nature of the people there who had a sense of contentment about them, always hale and hearty. That is what Udaipur was about. Simple yet soothing.
The last time I visited Udaipur, I saw it had progressed a lot from its small town days. Malls had sprung up and so had multiplexes. Swanky Coffee shops and McDonalds too have made their name in the city. From what I read in your blog, Crossword too has opened shop here. The population too has multiplied manifold. However I would still prefer ‘my’ Udaipur to remain the same, simple way it was. Not that I am against the city from developing; Udaipur deserves every bit of development it is witnessing. But somehow, I still like browsing through that small bookstore in Bapu Bazar and watch my movies at Chetak. To watch it getting all decked up is probably like seeing your child growing all handsome and mature. You feel proud about it, but somewhere deep down you miss that innocent child you had.
I do not know when I will visit Udaipur again; perhaps I am apprehensive on how I would react to this new updated version. I just hope and pray that in spite of all the progress it has made, the purity of life has remained. That is where the attraction lies.
But no matter what, the memories I have created here would remain in my soul for as long as I breathe. They are a massive part of my upbringing which I really miss and crave for. So deep runs my emotions and love for it that not a month goes by where I don’t dream about revisiting those enchanting places there. Even now as I go about my daily business; sometimes I look back over my shoulders at the milling crowd, expecting someone to give me that simple Rajasthani smile, wave and say ‘Aaaujo’.
Article by : Bhawesh Bhimani
About Him:He is a 26 years old Journalism Graduate from Kolkata and works as the Editor cum Project Manager at a Book Publishing House(Chiaroscuro Publishing)in the city. He has also worked as a Journalist in a city weekly tabloid for about a year besides being a freelancer for a few web-portals over the last three years. Besides that he also has a well-maintained blog. – http://burnighbright.blogspot.in/
Haryali Amavasya, from our childhood we celebrate this day as a holiday and enjoy the haryali amavasya ka Mela at saheliyon ki bari Road but apart from this, the religious value of this day cannot be overlooked. From the age of our ancestors pujas are conducted on this day to please Lord Shiva. The Shravan month which signifies the commencement of monsoon, this day has its value in making us feel our nature again and the greenery of our Lakecity.
But, the real taste to this festival is added by the famous Rabri Malpuas of Udaipur which is my and I am sure all of us personal favourite. The lush green gardens and parks of Udaipur can be seen full of families enjoying the season and their holiday to the fullest. And now comes the most amazing part, The Haryali Amavasya Mela which begins from Saheliyon ki Bari Road and is spread till Fatehsagar and can be enjoyed by the Udaipies today. The various joy rides and swings, street vendors shouting and the happiness filled noices of children fill the surroundings with enjoyment. The pakodas in little rain can be enjoyed with tea. In addition to which there are Gubbare, Pupadias, pav-bhaji and many more.
The fair continues the next day in which entry of males is restricted and the female folks enjoy the fair and the centre of attraction are the jewellery stalls,and the colorful pins and accessories which they can buy at so cheap prices and feel happy about the same. People come together, dine and enjoy this day of the rainy season to its fullest.
But the sad part is that this jubiliant fair has lost its value in recent years. The so-called status minded people regard this fair is meant only for tribal people and this is the biggest reason why it has lost its value. We should understand that this fair is a symbol of our tradition and culture which needs to be preserved in the same way it was done in the past.
So, Udaipies how many of you will now make your way towards the fair this evening..??
I am sure you all will have a blast visiting there and yes do not forget to mention and share your fun-filled experiences in the comment box below…
It started with light rain showers when the clock ticked 1 a.m. late night; this series of rain showers continued till late evening today. After such a long wait we can finally say that monsoon has arrived, fulfilling the aspirations of the broken hearts which had left the hopes of Rain. To capture this beauty of Rain, I went down in the City to start with my Monsoon Photography Collection for UdaipurBlog – RainoGraphy 2012. 🙂 Do like, share and comment… 😉
Just For Updates :-
It rained around : 25mm in Udaipur City, 175mm in Banswara, Dungarpur – 102mm, Jhadol – 9mm, Gogunda – 10mm, Sagwara – 188mm, Madar Bada – 6mm, Swaroopsagar – 19mm, Udaisagar – 16mm, Nai – 4mm, Kherwara – 40mm, Jaisamand – 69mm, Salumber – 62mm
Readers Clicks :
Photos by : Vikas Sharma
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Photo by : Parag Pancholi
If you have captured any Photos of Rain and want to display them here on UdaipurBlog.com then Email them on info@udaipurblog.com
The Art of Living Guru Poornima celebrations took place in Udaipur. Many people gathered for a wonderful week of music and meditation, silence and celebration, fun and food, dance of devotion and much more. July 3 was the day of Guru Poornima, a day that holds special significance for the spiritual seeker to pay tribute to the teachers.
Hindus attach paramount importance to the Spiritual Gurus. Gurus are often equated with God and always regarded as a link between the individual and the immortal. Just as the moon shines by reflecting the light of the sun, and glorifies it, all disciples can dazzle like the moon by gaining from their Gurus. ‘Guru’ in India, holds a supreme significance. Guru is a person with revered personality, who by his teachings enlightens us. He introduces us to the vast world of knowledge and shuns our ignorance.
His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar on the significance of Guru – Poornima
“Among the 12-13 full moons in a year the vaishakha full moon is dedicated to Buddha (his birth and enlightenment), jyeshtha full moon to mother earth and the aashadha full moon is dedicated to the memory of masters. This is Guru-Poornima.”
A prominent Art of Living teacher, Mr. Anand Desai mentored by His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankarji, is in Udaipur for few days for the Sahaj Samadhi Meditation course. It is pleasure of the people of Udaipur that they are getting chance to learn from a such a dynamic teacher who lives his knowledge.
He said, “Meditation is relaxing and reposing in that atom. So, think of all the things that you could be grateful for, and ask what you want. And bless everybody. We receive, but not just receiving is enough, we should give and bless those who are in need. ”
Hundreds of people gathered to attend the Guru Poornima Satsang by Anand Bhaiya at the Gujrati Dharamshala in Sector 11. Anand Bhaiya, alongwith the members of Art of Living mesmerized the audience with Bhajans like Satchidananda Nanda Guru Om , Jay Jaya Radha Ramana, Krishna Govind Gopala.
On the occasion of Guru Poornima, Art of Living, Udaipur launched a website devoted to Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Ji. – http://jaigurudev.me/
Features: Online Radio of Art Of Living, Applications for Android, I-Phones & Blackberry, etc
It’s a weekend again. Our favorite SUNDAY is here again and a rocking plan for spending a happening weekend “Banta Hai Boss”. After a week full of hard work, tensions, classes and pressure of completing our targets we all need a day full of fun with friends and family. The soaring high temperature which is increasing day by day makes me think of spending my weekend at a place that can make me forget the uneasiness caused by this heat.
So, Udaipies this week’s hangout option is JAISAMAND LAKE. Just 48 kilometers away from Lakecity, one can easily reach the second largest manmade lake of Asia for spending a rocking holiday. Built by Maharana Jai Singh in 1685, Jaisamand, also known as Dhebar Lake came into existence while constructing a dam on Gomti River. Besides enjoying the scenic beauty of the place you also have the advantage of enjoying the amazing backdrop of the lake which consists of a summer palace of Udaipur Queens.
Well, as we can’t visit an island in a day but Jaisamand fulfills the desire of island lovers too as it comprises of not one but seven islands. And now my favourite part, the lake has graceful marble steps which will take you to the journey of heaven when your feet will touch the lake water. At the top of the stairs is a Shiv temple for religious people. Yes, the same that showed up in the serial “Yeh rishta kya kehlata hai”. You can enjoy boat ride in the calm waters of the lake too, and have your lunch at the island resort. Wow, the hunch is adrenaline rush for itself. If you plan packing your own home made lunch for the family picnic, do have it at the “chhatris”(shade), but yes again, beware of the monkeys. They are quite professional beggars for food and irritating enough.
But wait, there’s is one more thing to be added in the “to visit” list which is the sanctuary near the lake. Yes, the place also serves the interest of nature and animal lovers; the lake has a sanctuary nearby that inhabitates different species of flora and fauna.
So, Udaipies what you all are waiting for just pack in your stuff and set off to actually personify the pleasures I just mentioned. Happy Weekend To all, and don’t forget to share your weekend experience with us. 🙂
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