Explore India

Vacations in India

2011-09-25T20:46:00.000-07:00

Across the length and breadth of India are thousands of enchanting tourist destinations. Such is the volume and diversity of her tourist attractions that it may not be possible to visit all of them in a lifetime. Most of India's cities are acquiring a modern outlook but have carefully preserved their ancient heritage for the future generations. India also has diverse flora and fauna which could be best seen in the wildlife sanctuaries.
Along the long coastline of India are some of the most picturesque beaches. If the Indian summer heat becomes unbearable, plenty of mesmerizing hill stations are available to beat the heat. But India is most popular for her pilgrimage destinations. India being an ancient civilization, most of these pilgrimage destinations date back to thousands of years. There are pilgrimages for every religion in India.

Cheap Travel India Vacations

2011-09-25T20:36:00.000-07:00

India Vacations

Are you planning for a family vacation tour but do not know about the places you would like to be at? You want to have a peaceful holiday and your family an enlightening tour. You have small children and you want them to get knowledge about the places, you have some elderly person in the family who may not like a vacation at beach. Are you crossed by these hurdles?

Would you like to take your family to some city, say Cochin, wherein they can find what many years of history classes cannot? Take your family to a popular national park, say , Ranthambore and reveal to them the world that lies beyond, the life that exists there. Would you like to go for such places in your vacations? If yes, then do go through this article, with a bit more interest.

Below given is a list of the places that have long been enjoyed by the people as ideal for family vacations :
Manali
Kashmir
Nainital
Shimla
Devikulam

Book Your Tour Now

Tribal Marriage in Arunachal Pradesh

2009-12-25T21:36:00.000-08:00

Go Glam in Gala! Be it a small town or a metro city, parties always call for a highlighting chic accessories. And, what else can be more glitzy then a marriage party. The auspicious occasion in the tribal community of Arunachal Pradesh seems indifferent, both in fun and fashion.

Tribal groups in Arunachal Pradesh are sub-divided into two groups. The first group consist of Sheredukpen, Monpa, Khowa, Khamba, Memba, Khampti and Singpho. The second group carries highlights the culture of Adi, Apatani, Nyishi, Puroik, Hill Miri, Tagin, Mishmi, Tangse, Nocte and Wancho. Although, they differ in belief and rituals, a common theme between them is celebrating matrimonial affairs.

Tribal Entertainment

Tribes of Arunachal Pradesh are greatly inclined towards showcasing their culture by means of folk programmes. Among Mompas Ajilamu and Yak dance is remarkable. Folks present some ethical hymns, which highlights the significance of items, like, dried squirrel, rice, ginger, apong(local beer). In Galo commuinty, proffesional singer(Nyikok) is booked for the purpose Further, they also make their moment jazz with enjoying the taste of Chang(local beer) and even foreign liquor.

Fashion Accessories in Tribal Marriage

A chain of blue color beads( biang sipi)
Mixed size bowls(talei)
Groom bangles(buah tap)
Bride groom's sword(bauh che)
Red color bead(buah gatjiang) to be fastened on the left wrist of the bridegroom
Head Gear(Koktung)
Bangle for bridegroom(Kamko tap)
Bride's sword(doumui che)
Chain of different kinds of bead(sampu, sangiang, anabou, sengme)
Habo Terri(a garland for girls)
Pebar(jewelery of rectangle size)

Mithi Dey

Mamallapuram Dance Festival 2010

2009-12-20T23:32:00.000-08:00

Festival Location: Bhagiratha (Arjuna's) penance, Mamallapuram, Tamil Nadu

Festival Time: January - February

Dance Festival Attraction: Bharat Natyam, Kuchipudi, Mohiniattam, Odissi, Kathak, Kathakali

Celebration Day: All Saturdays and Government

Festival Organizer: Tamil Nadu Tourism Department

The later half of wintry season commences the vivacious dance festival in Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to India Classical dances, 'Mamallapuram Dance Festival' unfolds cultural events wrapped in tradition. The month-long occasion starts from January and ends up in February. It is organized by the Tourism Department of Tamil Nadu and is greatly celebrated on weekends and national holidays.

Rhythmic steps of Bharat Natyam, Kuchipudi, Mohiniattam, Odissi, Kathak and Kathakali are performed on open-air stage, against the backdrop of the magnificent Pallava Rock Sculpture. History says that the monolithic image was created about 13^th centuries ago and stands as an outstanding example of Pallava culture and arts

Mamallapuram Dance Festival is an internationally acclaimed and globally renowned event. It limelights the melody of musicians, accompanied with dancers of repute from all over the world. Folk dancers from different parts of India, also find a platform to showcase their unique cultures.

Besides, enjoying the vibrant festival, tourist delight lies in getting around the ancient port of Pallavas, the Mamallapuram. The Shore temple, situated 58 kms south of Chennai presents the aesthetic beauty of rock sculptures, cave and stone architecture. The untouched shore line of Mamallupuram beach is also an ultimate place for beach lovers.

How to reach

By Air:

Chennai Airport is situated 58 kms from Mamallapuram. It is connected to major Indian cities by means of domestic and International flights.

By Rail:

The nearest train station are at Chengalpattu and Chennai, located 29 kms and 58 kms away Mamallapuram, respectively.

By Road:

State transport buses connects Mamallapuram with Pondicherry, Kanchipuram, Chengalpattu and Chennai. Also, tourist can hire private taxis from Chennai and reach the festival venue.

Mithi Dey

Rajasthan Kapil Muni Fair, 2009

2009-10-21T04:37:00.000-07:00

Festival Time: 29^th October -7^th November

Location: Kolayat, Bikaner

Fair Highlights: Holy bath in Kolayat Lake, Cattle fair, Arti in Kolayat temple

The royalty of Rajasthan can be well experienced with a visit during the number of fairs and festivals, revolving all the year round. The upcoming Kapil Muni festival is one such kind, that pulls the biggest crowd. It is organized in a small Kolayat town, situated near Bikaner on the National Highway to Jaisalmer.

According to Hindu mythology, this fair carries great significance in the religious calendar of Rajasthan. Legend has it that once the great saint Shri Kapil performed meditation at Kolayat, only for the well-being of mankind. Since then, believers, started devoting some of their day in his memory. The festival-like mela falls on Kartik Purnima, every year and people make all best effort to make it a remarkable one.

Rituals and Activities during Kapil Muni Fair

Kapil Muni Fair of Bikaner is among the largest fair in Rajasthan. The festival atmosphere showcases the various rites and rituals, which reminds of the words inscribed in sacred Puranas.

Devotees believe that the saint was a descendent of Lord Brahma and with remembering him, they take holy bath in Kolayat Lake. The water of the lake is believed to be so pious that it helps one wash away all his/her committed sins. The 52 ghats and a series of marble temples, glitters on the very occasion. One divine ghat dedicated to Kapil Muni consist of a marble statue of the Saint itself. Some ghats are specially reserved as the bathing center for women.

All festival rituals are performed by Sewag Brahmins. Eye-catching Aarti is carried out twice daily and after completion bhog(prassad) is distributed to the devotees. On the evening of Purnima(full-moon night), 'Deepmalika' is performed. Pilgrims light clay lamps and make them float in the sacred Kolayat lake. The whole lake twilights and turns magical with the reverberation of Kirtans. People also make offerings at the temple, consisting of coconut, dry fruits, sugar cubes and drops(mishri and batashas) etc.

Cattle Fair, Bikaner

Beside the religious affairs, Kapil Muni Mela is popular for the colorful Cattle Fair. Buffaloes, Horses, Camels and other domestic cattle are exhibited and the best breeders are recognized with certificates and prizes.

Participating in the Kapil Muni festival rituals and taking holy bath is alike performing religious yatra to the ten pilgrimage site. Visit Kolayat before you get stuck in some surprise task.

How to reach

By Air:

The nearest airports are in Jodhpur (254 km) and Jaipur (325 km), situated 254 km and 325 km away from Kolayat, respectively

By Rail:

The rail head in Bikaner is operated by direct train services to and from Delhi, Mumbai, Agra, Kolkata etc.

By Road:

Kolayat is just 50 km away from Bikaner. Both Interstate buses and private coaches aid travelers reach the festival ground, safely.

Mithi Dey

City Palace Udaipur in Rajasthan

2009-08-20T23:12:00.000-07:00

Udaipur in Rajasthan is known as the city of lakes. City Palace, Udaipur is one of the major attractions of the city. It is situated on the banks of Pichola Lake presenting visitors one of the finest examples of architectural legacies of the royal land of Maharajas. Considered amongst the marvellous palaces of India, its construction was started by Maharana Uday Singh in 1559 but the succeeding emperors kept on adding to it with the same style and structure.

The Wondrous Architecture

City Palace, Udaipur is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. The wondrous thing about its architectural style is that it comprises of 11 palaces built by different emperors but still they resemble each other. Built completely in marble and granite, this palace is an amazing framework of Chinese, European and Medieval architecture. With a number of gates called 'Pols' like 'Hathi Pol' or Elephant Gate, 'Bara Pol' or Great Gate, 'Tripolia' or Triple Gate, the palace consists of beautifully built balconies, octagonal towers, cupolas and hanging gardens. 'Raj Aangan' or Royal Courtyard built in 1571 is the oldest oldest part of the palace. After visiting decorated rooms inside the palace one can still find admirably excellent paintings of the bygone era and mirror tiles. One of the biggest and awesome temples of India, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Jagdish Temple, is also situated inside the palace.

Where 'Moti Mahal' or Pearl Palace is known for its expensive decoration, 'Manak Mahal' or Ruby Palace contains porcelain and crystal structures. At one side 'Sheesh Mahal' or Palace of Mirrors showcases its superb mirror art, on the other hand 'Dilkhush Mahal' or Palace of Joy have breathtaking wall paintings and murals. The highest point of the palace is 'Amar Vilas' which has been decorated with fountains, towers, terraces and hanging gardens.

The Museum

The major part of City Palace, Udaipur in Rajasthan comprises of Museum which has been divided into several halls and pavilions. It houses enchanting collection of antiques, artifacts, inscriptions and ancient sculptures. It is also known as Pratap Museum on the name of Maharana Pratap. One can see the armory, a big collection of weapons, swords and protective gears used during the reign of Maharana Pratap. Bugles and drums used in the period of one of the famous emperors, Rana Sanga are also on the display. Besides this antique paintings of Mewar, Rajasthani art, inscriptions and coins add to the beauty of museum.

How to get there ?

Air : The nearest airport, Debock, is at a distance of 24 km from the main city. It is connected by Air India flights from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur and Jodhpur.
Rail : Udaipur Railway Station is around 4 km from the city which is directly connected with Jaipur, Chittaur, Jodhpur, Ahmedabad and Delhi.
Road : Udaipur is linked by a wide network of bus services to main cities. The Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh Road Transport Corporation operate buses to Udaipur from various cities.

Sanjeev Verma

Krishna Janamashtami

2009-08-16T21:24:00.000-07:00

Krishna Janamashtami is one of the holy festivals of India which is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The festival is celebrated all over India in various forms. It is celebrated as the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna as He took birth on this day. The festival generally comes in the month of August every year and this year it is being celebrated on 14th August. According to the Hindu calendar, the festival falls on Ashtami (eighth day) of Krishna Paksha (dark half) in the month of Shravan.

This day is not only considered as the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna, the reincarnation of Lord Vishnu, but it is also treated as the birthday of a divine personality who bestowed the mankind with divine knowledge.

History of Krishna Janamashtami

There are several legends attached to the history of Janamashtami. It is believed that Lord Krishna took birth on this day to kill Kansa, his maternal uncle. Kansa was the king of Mathura and was famous for his cruelty to the mankind. The birth of Lord Krishna is calculated by the historians way back to the 'Dwapar Yug', around 3,227 BC. Lord Krishna was born on the stormy and dark night on eighth day of Shravan month in a jail.

Krishna Janamashtami Celebrations

It is a Hindu festival, which is of great importance in North Indian states, particularly in Uttar Pradesh. It is celebrated with great pomp and show specially in Mathura and Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh, as these places are related to the life of Lord Krishna. There are a number of temples in Mathura and Vrindavan, where devotees from various parts of India flock during this festival to offer their prayers and pay obeisance.

People observe full day fast on seventh day of the Shravan month and offer prayers till eighth day morning as it is said that Lord Krishna took birth in the midnight seventh and eighth day of Shravan month. Apart from this a number of processions are also carried out in various places showing the events for the life of Lord Krishna. A large number of devotees participate in these processions known as 'Jhankis'. Apart from this special 'Krishnaleelas' (plays on the life of Lord Krishna) are presented by the devotees in the dance form.

Devotional songs (Bhajans) of Lord Krishna are recited along with chanting of 'Mantras' and 'Shalokas' from the holy book 'Geeta' and 'Vedas'. Devotees have a belief that chanting of the name of Lord Krishna for 108 times brings auspiciousness in the life of devotees.

Celebration of Krishna Janamashtami in Maharashtra

Krishna Janamashtami is a very famous festival in all over Maharashtra and the main attraction of the festival is 'Dahi Handi'. On this day a number of groups of young boys roam around in the city to participate in the special event where a clay pot filled with butter milk is tied on a certain height in between the two buildings located on both sides of a street. These boys make a human pyramid and the boy on the top of the pyramid breaks 'Dahi Handi' spilling buttermilk all over the people.

This is treated as a sign of humanity and well being. They boys participating in the human pyramid are known by the name of Govindas and also get certain prizes.

Sanjeev Verma

Holy City of Amritsar

2009-08-13T02:50:00.000-07:00

Amritsar is the holy city of Sikhs. It is located in the Northern state of Punjab and derives its name from 'Amrit Sagar', the ocean of nectar of immortality. Major attraction of Amritsar is Golden Temple, which is also known by the name of Harmandir Sahib. Amritsar is one of the famous tourism and pilgrimage destinations of all religions, which attract visitors from all over India and abroad. Another important attraction of Amritsar is Jallianwala Bagh, the massacre memorial.

Founded by Guru Ramdas Ji in 1574, Amritsar is very close to the international border between India and Pakistan. The city of Amritsar is a home to several prominent Sikh Gurudwaras.

Climate of Amritsar

Amritsar has the extreme climatic conditions. It witnesses scorching summers and chilling winters. Mercury rises upto 46 degree celsius in summers and dips into minus during winters. Monsoons hit Amritsar in the beginning of July and continues till September. The best period of making a tour to Amritsar is from October to April.

Main Attractions of Amritsar

Golden Temple

Golden temple or Harmander Sahib was completed in 1604 AD in the city of Amritsar, which was started by Guru Ramdas Ji. It is considered the holiest place of Sikhs as Sri Gru Granth Sahib Ji, the eternal Guru of Sikhs, is placed inside the Golden temple. It literally means 'House of God'. It was also attacked by Afghan forces of Ahmed Shah Abdali in mid 18^th century, where the Afghan forces were defeated by Sikh army. It was rebuilt in 1760 because of the damages during the attack.

Golden temple is surrounded by a man made lake known by the name of Amritsar or lake of holy water of immortal nectar. Its architecture displays the beauty of both Muslim and Hindu styles and exhibits a huge golden dome in the centre of the temple. Golden temple has got four entrances which signify its openness to all religions.

Jallianwala Bagh

Jallianwala Bagh is located near to Golden Temple and is one of the sought after places during Amritsar tour. It was the site of bloody massacre during British Raj. General Dyer ordered his forces to carry out firing on peaceful people who were celebrating Baisakhi on 13 April 1919. Around 2000 people were killed in this tragic incident.

Akal Takht

Akal Takht was constructed in 1609 by Guru Har Gobind Ji, the sixth Guru of Sikhs. It is located directly opposite to Golden Temple. It literally means 'timeliness' and the highest council of Sikhs sits here. The Guru Granth Sahib is taken to Akal Takht in the night time from Golden Temple. It is a must visit site during Amritsar tour.

Ram Bagh

Ram Bagh is another major attraction for tourists during Amritsar tour. It is the place where summer palace of Maharaja Ranjit Singh was built. One can also visit the museum named after Maharaja Ranjit Singh here, which houses ancient weapons, paintings, ancient coins and miniatures. There is a statue of Maharaja Ranjit Singh seated on his horse, which can be spotted in Ram Bagh.

Sanjeev Verma

Coconut Festival, 2009

2009-08-03T00:46:00.000-07:00

Come 5th August, 2009 and India flags the Coconut Day festival or Narali Purnima. It is celebrated on full day in the month of Shravan and this year it coincides with the famous Raksha Bhandan and day is going blast unlimited joy. This festival is greatly celebrated by fisher folk residing in Coastal Maharashtra, Daman and Diu.

The traditional Coconut festival in Diu announces a variety of water sports on the Damanganga Creek and food made of coconut, which attracts tourist from different parts of the world.

Coconut Festival in India

Coconut Day festival or Narali Purnima depicts the love and devotion of fishermen towards the wind and sea-god Varuna. The festival marks the end of the monsoon season and the beginning of a fresh fishing season. Devotees consider Coconut as a three eyed God, Lord Shiva and believes to offer Coconut to the Sea God on the very day. They offer prayer and believe to seek blessings for their safety and good income. It is one of the major festival for all fishing community all across India and as such fishing boat before venturing out in the water. They arrange their boat in queue and fill the aura with their song of praise.

Coconut Festival, World Wide

The festival in conducted world-wide at different season in different time. Vietnam has already devoted 16th January, 2009 to Coconut Festival, held in Chau Thanh District and Ben Tre Town. It aims at highlighting the socio-economic achievements of the place.

Coconut Festival is soon to shower joy on Kappa Beach Park in Hawaii. The occasion has been declared to be held on 3rd and 4th October, 2009 and is the 13th Annual Cocount Festival since its commencement. The event displays entertainment, cultural programmes, history and games Visitors will also be offered with the experience of shopping items made of coconut. It will stage largest gathering of kauai artisans and food-contest by the best chefs of kauai's. The sole purpose of the festival is to promote, preserve and improvise the life and business along the Royal Coconut Coast.

Mithi Dey

Fairs and Festivals of India

2009-07-30T23:49:00.000-07:00

Festivals in India

India is such a diversified land that each Indian region has its own uniqueness. Round the year, people are seen merrymaking and frolicking in the ecstasies of festivals. The festivals in India are a reason to enjoy and celebrate some moments stolen from busy lives. The extravaganza of pomp and show in festivals is recent trend but otherwise, the festivals are a pregnant with social and religious importance.

Indian festivals bring people of various religions together on a common platform. The four major religions followed in India – Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism and Christianity – have their own specific festivals. But you will find follower of one religion celebrating festivals of other religion. A Hindu celebrating Id and a Muslim rejoicing in Holi and Diwali is a common site in India.

The Indian festivals involve a lot many traditions, customs and rituals. The traditional values of India are reflected through the celebration of festivals. Preparations start long back the actual festival day. Children specially take interest during the time of festivals because this is the time when their schools give them off and they indulge in festivities.

Religious Festivals of India
The multi religion nation, India, sees people enjoying many festivals. Some of the major festivals that Indians enjoy are:
- Holi
- Diwali
- Dussera
- Rakshabandhan
- Janamashamti
- Shivaratri
- Makar Sankranti
- Id
- Christmas
- Easter

Tourist Festivals of India
The Indian Tourism Industry understands the importance of foreign travelers. It has taken adequate measures to ensure the comfort of the tourists. To attract more foreign tourists to India the Department of Indian Tourism and the State Tourism Department organize some tourist festivals. These festivals are the best time to explore the nuances of the region's culture, people, traditional ethos and social milieu.

You have an excellent opportunity to have a glimpse of the handicrafts, cuisines and costumes of the region you are enjoying the festival in. some of te major tourist festivals of India are:
- Desert Festival
- Elephant Festival
- Summer Festival
- Winter Festival
- Car Festival
- Kite Festival
- Marwar Festival
- Mewar Festival

Other Fairs and Festivals of India
Not only religious festivals but the fairs organized in India are also very famous. These fairs a part of Indian culture. Rajasthan is one such place where fairs and festivals have a social connotation as well. These fairs are meant for cattle trading, handicrafts exhibitions etc. These fairs give the villagers a golden chance to exhibit their adeptness, their promote their business. Some such fairs are:

- Pushkar fair
- Nagaur Fair
- Baneshwar Fair
- Shekhawati Fair
- Shri Mahavirji Fair

Come to India during the time of festival and you will see a different India rejoicing in sheer rapture.

Indian Cuisine

2009-07-30T23:44:00.000-07:00

Food habits in India are a bit different from that of rest of the world. In India, people are fond of eating and treating. Each occasion is marked with lot of feasting. Many people are so much involved in merrymaking through feasting that they do not hesitate to spend extravagantly for the event. Minus any exception, each region of India has its own specialty in terms of cuisine preparation, recipes, use of spices, use of condiments etc.
The lip smacking delicacies of Indian cuisine are a matter of perseverance and diligence. Use of spices add to the aroma of the the redolent dishes. Indian kitchens always ooze with that typical aroma of spices. The traditional way of cooking is now amalgamated with the modern ways and the offshoot of this is more unique and delicious food.

Vegetarian or non vegetarian, the Indian dishes have their own taste. The assortment of dishes and liberal use of spices with a different style of cooking is the key factor behind the uniqueness of Indian dishes. Indian cuisine is a reflection of Indian culture because the culture is major impetus behind the evolution of Indian food.

On one hand you can find regional variations in Indian food like:

- Mughlai
- Punjabi
- Kashmiri
- Avadhi
- Rajasthani
- Goan
- Marathi
- Konakani
- Parsi

and on the other you will find a similarity of ingredients and types of food like:

- Main course
- Deserts
- Breads
- Curries
- Snacks
- Beverages
- Spices
- Condiments

With due course of time Indian food habits have been changed. Various other cultures have influenced the Indian food preparation. The many schools of Indian food are a result of climatic and regional variations of India. However, the staple food in a Indian thali would comprise of:

- Dal
- Vegetable with gravy
- Vegetable without gravy
- Chapati (Wheat bread)
- Rice
- Curd
- Pickle
- Chutney
- Dessert

Visit India and taste the mouth watering delicacies and I assure that you will never forget that taste.

Fashion Shows in India

2009-07-30T23:38:00.000-07:00

The fashion industry is on its boom in India. The Indian fashion designers are making the nation proud of them. An international exposure to the fashion designers from India has made the world wide famous. Today, everyone knows the designers from India. In fact the International super models also know these designers well and so have started burning the ramp for them. The Divas and Hunks from abroad happily come to India and walk the ramp, mark their presence in Indian Fashion Industry.

The recent events of Fashion weeks have at least proved this, that now National and International models are taking these fashion events very seriously. Big names like Naomi Campbell from abroad and numerous Bollywood stars walk the ramp and create a sensation among the audience. These sensational stars cast a spell on the beholders.

The major fashion shows of India are covered on global basis. The Indian Fashion designers are now even for Hollywood stars. Isn't it an ushering of an new era in the Indian Fashion industry? The Indian Fashion Industry has got that due exposure and fame that it deserves. The giant names of designers are every now and then in news. Each designer organizes his or her own fashion shows. The very famous fashion designers from India are:

Sabyasachi Mukherjee
Abu Jani
Sandeep Khosla
Ritu Beri
Hemant Trivedi
JJ Vallaya
Maneesh Malhotra
Neeta Lula
Tarun Tahiliani
Rohit Bal
Vikram Phadnis
Nandita Mahtani
Rahul Reddy
Narendra Kumar Ahmed

The fashion shows of these designers are a spectacle for the fashion partisans. A wide of latest fashion trends can be witnesses in these fashion shows. Some of the major fashion events in India and abroad are:

Lakme India Fashion Week
Kolkata Fashion Week
L'Oreal Fashion Week
India International Garments Fair
Bridal Asia and Helsinki International Fashion Fair
National Garment Fair
Will India

These shows and events are a manifestation of the changing trends of Indian Fashion Industry.

Indian Marriages

2009-07-30T05:37:00.000-07:00

No event in Indian family is as big as marriage. Indian marriages are an affair of merrymaking and complete social responsibilities. Indian marriages are for every social requirement, family ties, passions, and monetary resources. Regarded as essential for everyone, Indian marriages are an institution that everyone is fascinated by. People give due importance to marriages in India.

Traditions in Hindu Marriages

The Hindu marriages in India are an affair of traditions and customs. Marriages are generally arranged by the older members of the family (the grandparents and in their absence the parents) where the prospective bride and groom formally meet each other in presence of their family members.
Attractions of Indian Marriages

Indian marriages are marked with great enthusiasm and feasting. The feasting and celebrations in an Indian marriage are the key attractions besides, there are many traditional customs that are preceded and followed by the main occasion. The functions held to commemorate the celebrations of marriage are:

a) Roka Ceremony
b) Godd Bharayi
c) Tilak
d) Mehandi
e) Varmala
f) Phere
g) Paani Grahan Ceremony
h) Vidaai
i) Muhn Dikhayi

All these functions have their own unique happiness where people enjoy and bless the would be couple.

Dances of India

2009-07-30T05:33:00.000-07:00

A Prelude to Indian Dances

The cultural heritage of India is very rich. Each state of India is distinct and so is its cultural legacy. India can boast of being the one among who have a special form of dancing. The grace and charm of Indian Classical Dance is inexplicable. The performance of these dances will take you to another world. The two dominant dance forms here are Folk Dances and Classical Dances. Where folk dances are more inclined and identified with the locales, the classical dances are associated with the temple culture and performed more or less as if to please and pray God and Goddess.

Classical Dances of India

The essence of these Classical Dances is aesthetic and spiritual. The cosmic element of these dances is affiliated with dance of life, myths, symbolism, mystic responses and philosophical explanations. The skillful dance performances are exceptionally remarkable. The distinct flavor of the dances is credited to the graceful body movements – which include eyes, neck , hands, - expressions both facial and eye, postures, jewelery, costumes.

In the history of Classical Dances dating back to about 2000 years, six main classical dances have evolved. Bharata's Natyashastra (Natya means Drama and Shastra means authoritative text) is considered to be the most important resource of describing guidelines and attributes of Indian Drama. The treatise offers two aspects of dance Nritta,the pure dance, and Nritya, the interpretative dance. Another bible of Indian dance is 'Abhinaya Darpanam' which gives the fundamental principles for every technique.

The Sangeet Natak Academy has bestowed the status of classical Dance on eight prominent dance forms:

1.Bharatnatyam of Tamil Nadu
2.Odissi of Orissa
3.Kuchipudi of Andhra Pradesh
4.Manipuri of Manipur
5.Mohiniattam of Kerala
6.Kathakali of Kerala
7.Kathak of North India
8.Sattriya of Assam

Out of these Bharatnatyam and Odissi religiously follow the principles laid down in Natya Shastra. A very important feature of the classical dances is use of mudras or hand gestures (sign language) used to tell a phenomena or concepts. The regional exclusivity and ethnic elements of the dances make them all the more charming.

Folk Dances in India

Folk dances of India are the backbone of the cultural aura. The variety and diversity of the cultural legacy is also dominant in the folk dances. The fascinating folk dances mark almost every occasion. A child birth, a festival, a wedding, any event does not go without these dance performances. Since a child's birth s/he is circumcised in the folk music. The folk dances are accompanied with various musical instruments. The folk dancers don vibrant costumes, elegant hair dos and ethnic jewelery and dance very rhythmically and gleefully to mark the occasion. The Folk dances of India are categorized into various regions like
Central India
Eastern
Northern
North Eastern
Southern
South western

Some of the famous folk dances of India are:

Bhangra, Gidda of Punjab
Ghoomar, Kalbelia of Rajasthan
Dandiya, Garba of Gujarat
Lavani of Maharashtra
Bihu of Assam
Chhau of Jharkhand
Jawara of Madhya Pradesh
Karma, Jatra and Paika of Bihar
Brita of West Bengal
Dalkhai, Goti Puas of Orisa
Dhumal of Jammu and Kashmir
Hikat of Himachal Pradesh

One has to come and experience for himself what the dance performances in India actually are. The status, the Indian dances, enjoy is well deserved.

Traditional Embroideries in India

2009-07-30T05:28:00.000-07:00

Indian dresses reflect the ethnicity of culture of India. The typical Indian attires will be found heavily embroidered and brocaded. The traditional embroideries of India are now fused with some modern fashion trends. As a result, the fashion world has very elegant ethnic Indian costumes. Each state of state has contributed in its own way to the traditional embroidery. Let us have a look at some of the famous embroideries of India:

Aribharat: It is traditional embroidery from Kutch which has a picturesque and ornament like quality. It takes its name from ari. As it was also used by the cobblers it became to be known as Mochibharat.

Bagh: The bagh is a result of phulkari. You will find bagh with green color as a base and geometric designs. The coarse cloth of cotton is made beautiful by the use of bagh stitch.

Banjara: Andhra Pradesh has contributed to this style of embroidery where Lambadas nomadic tribes use a fusion of appliqué with mirrors and beadwork. The crisscross stitches of red, yellow, white and black colored cloths makes it elegant.

Chikankari: In this blog itself I have spoken Chikankari – the famous form of embroidery from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. You will many kinds of stitches in the embroidery like murri, taipchi, shadow work, jaali, fanda etc. done on mainly cotton cloth.

Zari Work: The elegant zari work has now captured the fashion market where the fabrics of zari are much adored and preferred when it comes to traditional Indian dresses. You can have beautiful costumes like sarees, odhinis, lehanga cholis, bridal lehangas of zari work.

Kashida: Done in varied forms, Kashida is a type of embroidery that is typical to the Indian state of Bihar. The beautiful work enhances the elegance of the dress.

Kasuti: The varied themes and motifs ranges from geometric patterns to birds and animal images, blossoming trees and shrines of God etc. This form originally belongs to Dharwar region of Karnataka. You can have lovely handloom saris of this art with two techniques gavanti and murgi.

Kantha: Coming all the way from Bengal, Kantha is a kind of patchwork embroidery. A series of dotted lines appear on the cloth surface as small stitches are done on it. The fillings are done from the opposite side of the cloth by using longer floats.

Karchobi: You can have this beautiful work by raising the zari metallic thread and sewing it by flat stitches on a cotton padding. In India is mainly used for bridal dresses and formal costumes. Apart from this, you will also find cushions, curtains, tent hangings and chariot coverings.

Kathi: The gypsies of Gujarat have originated this form of embroidery. This rural art form is typical to the Kathi tribes of Gujarat. It is a kind of fusion of chain stitch, appliqué work further accentuated by mirror work. The main themes of this embroidery are Hindu scriptures.

Phulkari: As the name suggests, the embroidery is flowery in nature. This stitch is apparently a darning with countable stitches. One stitch missed, the whole pattern gets wrong. You will all kinds of motifs in Phulkari like animals, birds, flowers etc. Done by silk thread, the best of the Phulkaris are from Delhi, Hissar, Gurgaon, Karnal and Rohtak.

Pichwai: The most vibrant state of India, Rajasthan is a home to this stitch. The beautiful embroidery enhances the grace of simple cloth.

Paintings in India

2009-07-30T05:24:00.000-07:00

History of Indian Paintings
Indian arts and crafts have always been admired all over the world. Since ages, the tradition of paintings has been fostered in India. Indian artisans have proved their mastery in giving new meaning to the dull canvass, walls, cloths etc. The aesthetic quality of the paintings have made them world wide famous. The various styles and techniques with varied themes makes Indian paintings exquisite. The discoveries say that many patas have reference in Mudrakshaka. Even Vishnudharmottara too has principles of paintings.

Have you ever been to Bheemketa cave sin Madhya Pradesh, located in the central part of India? Here you will find some paintings and sketches of animals that date back to prehistoric times. Even the Harappan civilization have paintings in the form of seals. Later during the Gupta dynasty reign, the art of painting flourished too much. The period of 4 - 6th century A.D. is therefore called the Golden era for Indian arts.

Types of Indian Paintings
Indian arts are greatly influenced by the regional flavors. And so are Indian paintings. The regional variation in the paintings are no exception to it. The Indian paintings are either miniatures or murals.

Murals: The huge works of arts and embellishment done on walls that are solid. Examples of murals are present in Ajanta cave and Kailashnatha Temple.

Miniatures: Miniature paintings are executed on a piece of cloth or paper. The pioneer name in this tradition is of Pala kings from Bengal. The Mughal period gave new glories to the Indian miniatures. Further it was carried to Rajasthan and there it acquired some new schools like:

(a)Bundi
b) Kishangarh
(c)Jaipur
d) Mewar
e) Marwar

Even today Indian paintings are admired much by the connoisseurs. The contemporary artists have retained the aesthetic values of the Indian paintings and have skilfully adopted new techniques and themes.