50 REASONS- WHY INDIA?
2008 Š
March-2008
Indian Express Newspapers (Mumbai) Limited
3
Chairman of the Board: Viveck Goenka, Vice President & Head-BPD: Sandeep Khosla, Dy. General Manager: Biju Mathews Editorial - Editorial Chief* :Vyas Sivanand, Mumbai : Reema Sisodia, Steena Joy, Hazel Jain, Delhi: Praveen Singh, Jyoti Kaul, Hyderabad: Associates: Akhil Singhal, Kolkatta: Joy Roy Choudhury, Marketing : Kolkatta: Zahid Khan, Hyderabad: Anthony Daniel, YS Venkatswamy, L.Francis Farias, Ashwini Kumar Shukla, Vijay Kulkarni, Maharashtra: Raymond Pinto, Sunil D Costa, Tamil Nadu: Rakesh Gopinath, Chandigarh: Manjit Chopra, Karnataka: Dr Raghu Pillai, New Delhi: N Sanjiba, Production: M. E. A. Mujahid, Bhadresh Valia, Design & Layout: N. Prasad, A. Navin Kumar, Design Associate: Prem Sagar Photographers: M Vidya Sagar Rao, M. Raghunath, Support: Rajan Nair, Archive Support: B. Naresh, M. Narender IT Support: Hemanth Kumar Official Picture Agency : Dinodia Photo Library Pvt. Ltd.
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FOR THE ‘BEST’ INDIAN JOURNEY Sandeep Khosla, Vice President & Head - BPD
India has been evolving, but even during its evolution towards modernity, it has always been able to maintain a glorious charm. Be it its population, be it culture, be it arts & crafts, be it destinations…the country has an intrinsic essence attached that is ubiquitous. It was this essence of India, the undying spirit of the country that triggered us at the Indian Express (Mumbai) Group to think of the initiative ‘Best of India’ last year during ITB Berlin highlighting the best destinations in the country under various tourism product categories. In all its diversity, the myriad aspects that make India cannot be covered in one edition. It’s with this understanding that we decided to bring ‘Best of India’ every year with a different theme. This year, we continue to embark on our journey of finding the Best of India, but with the theme, ‘Fifty Best in India’. Why Fifty Best in India? We found that encapsulating the diversity of this country and the magnificence of the country’s charisma is something that many have tried with no particular entirety. That is when we thought of Fifty Best in India, so that we can present India within a certain boundary. With this edition of ‘Best of India’, I hope that the essence of India is reflected and you get a glimpse of the best fifty of the country. Presenting the Best of India is a long journey we embarked upon…A journey of more volumes and editions. So look out for more editions of ‘Best of India’ in the coming years.
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Ambika Soni Minister of Tourism & Culture,
I am happy to know that the Indian Express (Mumbai) Group is
Government of India
bringing out its second edition of ‘Best of India’ that identifies 50 Best Destinations in the country. Given India’s vast diversity, it is not possible to capture the best of India in 50 capsules. I am hopeful that this edition will bring out the flavour of India’s touristic value. The release of the second edition at the prestigious ITB, Berlin this year is indeed timely. It should be a useful tool for ardent international travelers planning their visits to India in the near future. I wish the Indian Express (Mumbai) Group all the success.
Ambika Soni Minister of Tourism & Culture, Government of India
March-2008
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Advt
50 REASONS- WHY INDIA?
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50 REASONS- WHY INDIA?
The Essence
The Architecture
The Ethos
The Wilderness
India, the most populous
Beginning with the Indus
India is the second most
One of 17 mega-diverse
democracy in the world,
Valley Civilisation, moving
culturally, linguistically
countries, India’s forest
has a certain spirit. A spirit
through the Vedic period,
and genetically diverse
cover ranges from tropical
that becomes profound
the Maurya-Gupta followed
geographical entity after
rainforest of the Andaman,
when experienced. The
by the temple-building era,
the African continent. With
Western Ghats, and North-
profoundness is immense,
the Turks and Afghans, the
over 10 different religions,
East India to the conifer-
as you share cultures,
Mughal Empire, & the
the country has managed
ous forest of the Himalaya.
lifestyles, tenets and even
European colonization...all
to preserve established
With more than 500
dreams. The people of India
influenced Indian architec-
traditions while absorbing
sanctuaries, India hosts 13
are one reason why India
ture. Today India has 16
new customs, traditions,
biosphere reserves, 4 of
makes it to the top of a
cultural world heritage
and ideas from invaders
which are part of the World
traveller’s itinerary.
sites recognised by
and immigrants.
Network of Bio Reserves.
UNESCO.
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50 REASONS- WHY INDIA?
The Streams
The Adventure
Major Himalayan-origin
With its mighty hills,
rivers that flow through
thunderous rivers, ski
India include the Ganges
slopes, valleys, deltas,
and Brahmaputra.
India offers enough scope
Important tributaries of the
for the adventurer. Be it
Ganges include the
climbing Himalayas, or
Yamuna and the Kosi.
River rafting and kayaking
Major peninsular rivers are
or Skiing in Gulmarg or
Godavari, Mahanadi,
Auli– there are plethora of
Kaveri, Krishna, Narmada
options.
& Tapti among others.
The Coast
The Weather
India’s coast is 7,517 kms
India’s climate is strongly
long; of this distance,
influenced by the
5,423 kms belong to
Himalayas and the Thar
peninsular India, and
Desert, both of which drive
2,094 kms to the
the monsoons. Four major
Andaman, Nicobar, and
climatic groupings
Lakshadweep Islands. Main
predominate in India:
tourist beaches include
tropical wet, tropical dry,
Puri, Digha, Goa, Kovalam,
subtropical humid, and
Marina, Kerala beaches,
montane.
Lakshadweep and more.
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50 REASONS- WHY INDIA?
The Heights
The Tunes
Several hill stations served as summer capitals of Indian
Indian music covers a wide range of traditions and
provinces, princely states, or, in the case of Shimla, of
regional styles. Classical music is split between the North
British India itself. Since Indian Independence, the role of
Indian Hindustani and South Indian Carnatic traditions.
these hill stations as summer capitals has largely ended,
History indicates that the two traditions diverged from a
but many hill stations remain popular summer resorts.
common musical root since 13th century.
The Moves
The Delicacies
Eight dance forms, many with narrative forms and
Indian cuisine is characterised by a variety of regional
mythological elements, have been accorded classical dance
styles and use of herbs & spices. Kashmiri & Mughlai
status. These are: bharatanatyam of the state of Tamil
cuisines show central Asian influences. Bengali &
Nadu, kathak of UP, kathakali and mohiniattam of Kerala,
Assamese have East Asian shades. Coastal kitchens use
kuchipudi of Andhra Pradesh, manipuri of Manipur, odissi
fish & coconuts. Rajasthan & Gujarat cusine use a variety
of the state of Orissa and the sattriya of Assam.
of dals & achars. The north-east use a variety of rices.
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50 REASONS- WHY INDIA?
The Fairs
The Royal Chug
Indian fairs always
India offers the the
capture the centrestage
ultimate luxury on wheels
when it comes to tourism.
with its luxury trains. The
The fairs are the spirit of
trains include Palace on
Indian culture and society.
Wheels (Rajasthan),
Major celebrations include
Heritage on Wheels
pushkar mela, kumbh
(Shekhawati region),
mela, goa carnival,
Deccan Odyssey
surajkund mela; so on and
(Maharashtra) and the
so forth.
latest Golden Chariot (Karnataka).
The Economy
The Healing
India is the world’s 12th
Ayurveda originated in
largest economy & the 3rd
India long back. Rigveda
largest in purchasing
and Atharva-veda, the
power. Economic reforms
earliest documented
have transformed it into
ancient Indian knowledge
the 2nd fastest growing
has references on health
economy. With a GDP
and diseases. Ayurveda
growth of 9.4% in 2006-
presents a close similarity
07, its economy is
to WHO’s concept of
amongst the fastest
health. Presently it is
growing in the world.
actively applied in Kerala.
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The Celebrations Festivals in India are characterized by color, gaiety, enthusiasm, prayers and rituals. Foreign travelers are struck by the scale and multiplicity of Indian festivals that have evolved in the society. Many Indian festivals are religious in origin, although several are celebrated irrespective of caste and creed. Some popular festivals are Diwali, Pongal, Holi, Onam, Vijayadashami, Bihu, Durga puja, Eid ul-Fitr, Bakr-Id, Christmas, Ugadi, Buddha Jayanti and Vaisakhi.
The Experience Experiential tourism is now being explored by many states and hotels especially in Rajasthan and Kerala. The concept revolves around giving the taste of the local flavour to visiting travelers. It has taken shape in the form of came safaris, dinner cruise on the backwater, homely food at a local farm and such like. More and more concepts are being worked out and the concept is fast becoming popular among domestic as well as international visitors.
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50 REASONS- WHY INDIA?
The Yogic Factor
The Luxury
Yoga is a system of
With the advent of many
exercises for the physical &
international brands like
mental well-being. It
the Marriott, Hilton, Accor,
combines stylised poses
Hyatt, along with the
with deep breathing and
domestic top-end chains
meditation. Its ultimate
like Taj, Oberoi, Leela, The
aim is to unite the human
Park, and more, accommo-
soul with the universal
dation woes of the
sprit. Yoga has its origins
travelers at the top bracket
in the Vedas, the oldest
are more or less taken care.
records of Indian culture.
The Well-being
The Eco Factor
India is fast becoming a
The concept of Ecotel was
healthcare hub of the world
pioneered by Orchid Hotel
with a combination of
in Mumbai. Now the
several factors, which
awareness has spread.
makes it a unique destina-
There are many, working
tion. Many state govern-
on strategies to make
ments are trying to exploit
tourism as environmental
the potential that health
friendly as possible. A
tourism holds and there are
classic case is CGH Earth,
successful examples too.
which has taken the drive of responsible tourism.
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The Air Connection
The Shopping Spree
The aviation sector in the country has never seen better
Shopping in an adventure of a vibrant kind in India.
times. While domestic travel has boomed with the launch
Exotic images of an India, of silk, spices and saris are alive
of low-cost airline, Air Deccan (Now Deccan), traveling by
even today in quintessential bazaars. Visitors can carry
air is no more a dream. With more and more players
home a slice of India’s multi-faceted culture that thrives
joining, state governments are focussing on airports.
on its pulsating streets and malls.
The Museums
The Theatre
A storehouse of history and culture, India has inherited a
Often based on Hindu mythology, but also borrowing from
bounty of artifacts and monuments, symbolizing cultural
medieval romances, and news of social and political
and historical heritage. Its museums and art galleries
events, Indian theatre includes the bhavai of Gujarat, the
offers a glimpse into its past, often spanning a history of
jatra of West Bengal, the nautanki and ramlila of North
5000 years under one spacious roof. Today, the concept of
India, the tamasha of Maharashtra, the terukkuttu of
a museum has assumed considerable significance.
Tamil Nadu, and the yakshagana of Karnataka.
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50 REASONS- WHY INDIA?
The Pilgrimage
The Fashion Mantra
Pilgrimage or Tirthatan is
The Art There is an abundance of
the oldest way of traveling
India has contributed the
from one place to other in
most gracious of garments
India. From the first
in the form of the
instance of civilization to
traditional sari. But the
the present day, millions
fashion industry and its
from different religions
trends are changing every
leave their home in search
two months. And in the
of salvation to their
last decade there is a shift
respective holy places and
in trends and fashion
they are plenty.
every six months.
The Coastal Wonders
colour in India and this
Among notable coastal
aspect is depicted well in its
features of India are the
arts and crafts. Be it Richly
marshy Rann of Kutch in
embroidered garments,
western India, and the
woven shawls and
alluvial Sundarbans delta.
household items, paint-
India has two archipelagos:
ings, wood sculptures, clay
the Lakshadweep, and the
pots‌every item that is
Andaman and Nicobar
churned out has an ethnic
Islands, a volcanic chain in
touch of class.
the Andaman Sea.
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The Nightlife The financial, entertainment, and nightlife capital of the country is undoubtedly Mumbai. With its plethora of night clubs, discotheques, resorts, farm parties, bustling food outlets, the city surely never sleeps and when it does, it wakes early too. But with liberalization and a broader thinking creeping into the otherwise conservation Indian mentality there are many other cities where you could look out for some great nightlife. These include the NCR, Goa, Bangalore, Chennai and to certain extent Kolkata. The future cities which are reaching there could be Pune and Hyderabad.
The Convention Hub India is a unique Conference Destination as it offers cultural and heritage sites, the exotic and mystical, excellent facilities of beach and adventure holidays which can be combined as pre and post conference tours. India is in a continual process of upgrading its MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Exhibitions) facilities. With Hyderabad International Convention Center setting up new standards there are multiple plans on the anvil for more world-class convention centers, airports that contest with the best in the world and efforts to team the famous Indian hospitality with customisation as per a visitor’s requirement.
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50 REASONS- WHY INDIA?
The Ashrams
The Rural Factor
Resting serenely on the
The Eatery
banks of the holy Ganges,
Rural India has a certain
nestled in the lap of the
charm to it. It is about
Himalayas in Rishikesh,
being natural and using
are ashrams (charity
nature’s bounty to give an
homes) in an atmosphere
unique experience to ardent
of true spiritual sublimity.
visitors. The government of
The awe-inspiring beauty
India is now on a aggres-
of the ashrams, the
sive trip to lift the rural
Ganges, the mountains
charm and there are plenty
just rejuvenate.
of takers too.
The Valleys
Indian restaurants run the
Explore the Buddhist
gamut from roadside dhabas
mountain kingdom of
to classy 5-star places where
Ladakh and mysterious
the experience is comparable
Nubra valley. Wide open
to any place in the world.
spaces, wind across your
The restaurants range from
face, breathtaking, scenery
speciality outlets to theme
is what you see driving past
restaurants to multi-cuisine
different landscapes on
outlets. The typical local fast
mountain roads, The
foods, as always lend a
Zanskar valley is a
certain unique flavour.
particularly challenging.
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The Putt
The Bait
Golfing options are galore in India. With many new state-
The beauty of meandering rivers, marshy depressions,
of-the-art golf courses in the pipeline, golfers could easily
plateaus and ravines make up an adventurous fishing tour
find their best tee-offs. The Classic Golf Resort, Delhi Golf
in India. India is a landscape dominated by numerous
Club, Gulmarg Club, Shimla Club, Bangalore Golf Club,
rivers, which makes it an ideal place for a fishing tour and
Royal Calcutta Golf Club, are few courses in the country.
there is plenty of catch.
The Tribal Experience
The Tea Tour
India is home to many indigenous tribes which live lives
Tea tourism in India is fast catching on popularity with
that is directly associated with their natural surroundings.
more and more tourists making their way to the lush
Right from the customs and traditions, lifestyle, food
green tea estates of India. India boasts of three major
habits or the way of earning bread and butter; all the
regions - Assam, Darjeeling and Nilgiris - that produce
components comprising the schedule of the tribal people
some of the finest teas in the world and Tea tourism is
hold certain importance in their lives.
gaining a lot of momentum off-late.
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50 REASONS- WHY INDIA?
These ten should be more reasons for your to visit India.
The PartyLand The state of Goa is situated on the West Coast of India, between the borders of Maharashtra and Karnataka and is better known to the world as the former Portuguese enclave on Indian soil. With the rule of the Portuguese for over 450 years and the consequential influence of the Latin culture, Goa presents a somewhat different picture to the foreign visitor than any other part of the country. The state of Goa is famous for its excellent beaches, churches, and Hindu temples. The Bom Jesus cathedral, Mangueshi Temple and Shantadurga are famous attractions in Goa.
The God’s Land Nicknamed as one of the “10 paradises of the world” by the National Geographic traveller, Kerala is famous especially for its ecotourism initiatives. Its unique culture and traditions, coupled with its varied demography, has made it one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Growing at a rate of 13.31%, the tourism industry significantly contributes to the state’s economy.
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50 REASONS- WHY INDIA?
The Desert King
The Heaven on Earth
Rajasthan, literally meaning “the land of the kings”, is
Uttarakhand is the 26th state of the Republic of India.
one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Northern
Blessed with magnificent glaciers, majestic snow-clad
India. The vast sand dunes of the Thar Desert attract
mountains, gigantic and ecstatic peaks, valley of flowers,
millions of tourists from around the globe every year. It is
skiing slopes and dense forests, this Abode of Gods
definitely is a ‘must be’ when in India.
includes many shrines and places of pilgrimage.
The Potpourri
The Mighty Splendour
Karnataka, the eighth largest state in India, is a veritable
Andhra Pradesh has a rich cultural heritage and a variety
treasure trove of tourist delights. By virtue of its varied
of tourist attractions. The state comprises of scenic hills,
geography and long and rich history, Karnataka boasts of
forests, beaches and temples. Andhra Pradesh is the home
numerous spots of interest for tourists. Karnataka has
of many religious pilgrimage centres, one of them being
been ranked as fourth most popular destination for
‘Tirupati’, the abode of Lord Venkateswara, which is the
tourism among states of India.
richest and most visited Hindu temple in India.
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50 REASONS- WHY INDIA?
The Modest Land
The Centre of Attraction
Orissa has been a preferred
The Water World
destination from ancient
Madhya Pradesh has been
days for people who have
home to the cultural
an interest in spirituality,
heritage of Hinduism,
religion, culture, art and
Buddhism, Sikhism,
natural beauty. Ancient
Jainism & Islam. Innumer-
and medieval architecture,
able monuments, temples,
pristine sea beaches, the
forts & palaces are dotted
classical and ethnic dance
all over. It is also known as
forms and a variety of
the Tiger state because of
festivals thrive here.
tiger population.
The Devout Many great rulers including
Andaman & Nicobar
the Cholas, Pallavas,
Islands will leave you
Pandyas & Vijayanagara
mesmerised. It is one part
Empire ruled over parts of
of India which will help
Tamil Nadu. The state is
you chuck the road. There
known for its cultural
is plenty of clear water.
heritage and temple
Built your dreams around
architecture. Tamil
water. Port Blair will show
literature is amongst the
you around. The Port sure
oldest. Much of its ancient
certifies India as a Brand.
culture is still alive.
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OF INDIA
Makar Sankranti Sankranthi, or Sankranti, is a festival that signifies the beginning of the harvest season for the farmers of the Indian Sub-Continent. This is a harvest fesival celebrated not only all over India but other South East Asian Counties as well. Makara Sankranti has a special geo-agri-economical significance for the people of the Indian Sub-Continent.Makara Sankaranti is about transition of the Sun into Capricorn on it’s celestial path. Also, traditionally, this has been one of many (considering the vastness of the land and the climatic variation) harvest days. The day on which the sun begins its journey northwards is referred to as Makara Sankranti. Sankramana means “to commence movement� and hence the name Makara Sankranti given to one of the largest, most auspicious, but varied festivals in the Indian subcontinent.
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Pongal Thai Pongal is a harvest festival equivalent to a thanksgiving event celebrated by Tamils across the world. Pongal in Tamil means “boiling over or spill over.” The act of boiling over of milk in the clay pot is considered to denote future prosperity for the family. It is traditionally celebrated at harvest time.
Maha Shivaratri Maha Shivratri or Maha Sivaratri or Shivaratri or Sivaratri is a Hindu festival and the most significant practices on this day are offerings of Bael (Bilva) leaves to the Lord Shiva, fasting and all night long vigil. In many parts, people consume bhang lassi, which they believe is Lord Shiva’s favorite drink.
Vasant Panchami Magh Sud 5 (5th day of the bright
Holi
fortnight of the lunar month of
Holi or Phagwah (Bhojpuri) is a
Magh) is the day of Vasant
popular, Hindu spring festival, also
Panchami. Hindus all over the world
called the Festival of Colours. On the
celebrate this festival with great
first day, bonfires are lit to signify
enthusiasm. This Panchami is also
burning the demoness Holika,
known as Saraswati Day. It is
Hiranyakashipu’s sister. On the second
believed that this day is Saraswati’s
day, people spend the day throwing
birthday. Hindu temples are full of
coloured powder and water at each
activities on this day.
other.
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Vasant Navratri Most people associate Navratri with the celebrations that take place in the lunar month of Ashwani - September/October. The second Navratri is celebrated in the lunar month of Chaitra – March/April. Both the Navratris are celebrated when nature undergoes important climate changes. It is held during the beginning of summer and the beginning of winter. It is a time of thanksgiving to Mother Nature . The vasant or Spring Navratri is more famous in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand (Uttaranchal), Punjab and Haryana. Most people are not aware of the Vasant Navratri as it does not have the pomp and fanfare associated with the Durga Puja celebrated in September-October.
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Rama Navami Rama Navami is a Hindu holiday. It falls on the ninth day of the Hindu lunar year (or Chaitra Masa Suklapaksha Navami) and is a celebration of the birthday of the Indian god Rama. People normally perform Kalyanotsavam (marriage celebration) for small murtis (idols) of Rama and his wife Sita in their houses, and at the end of the day the deity is taken in a to a procession to the streets. This day also marks the end of the nine-day utsavam called Chaitra Navaratri (Maharashtra) or Vasanthothsavam (Andhra Pradesh) which translates to festival of Spring, which starts with Gudi Padwa (Maharashtra) or Ugadi (South India).
Gudi Padwa Gudi Padwa is celebrated on the first day of the Chaitra month, and is celebrated as New Year’s Day by Maharashtrians. This is also first day of the Marathi Calendar. This festival is supposed to mark the beginning of Vasant or spring. According to the Gregorian calendar this would fall sometime at the end of March and the beginning of April. As per the Brahma Purana, this is the day on which Brahma created the world after the deluge and time began to tick from this day onwards. This is one of the 3 and a half days in the Indian Lunar calendar, whose every moment is considered auspicious.
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Bonalu Bonalu is a festival celebrated in Hyderabad, Secunderabad and parts of Telangana, in ritual honour of Mahankali, The Mother Goddess. Women bring cooked rice and other essentials in brass vessels or pots and gather with other women proceeding to a local Goddess temple. They are led by dancing men.
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Shigmo Shigmo (also known as Shimga) is a festival celebrated in Goa. It is one of the prominent festivals of the Hindu community in Goa. Shigmo festivals is celebrated in diverse rural parts of Goa, spanning over a fortnight, with different days earmarked for celebrations in diverse areas. This festival is celebrated around March.
Vat Pournima Vat Pournima is a celebration observed in Maharashtra, India. Pournima means “full moon” and is celebrated on this day in June. Women pray for their husbands by tying threads around a banyan tree on this day. It honours Savitri, the legendary wife who escaped death for her husband’s life.
Hanuman Jayanti Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated to
Ugadi
commemorate the birth of
Telugu and Kannada people celebrate
Hanuman, the monkey god widely
the festival with great fanfare;
venerated throughout India. It is
gatherings of extended family and a
celebrated during the month of
sumptuous feast are de rigueur. The day
Chaitra. Hanuman was an ardent
begins with ritual showers and prayers.
devotee of Lord Rama. From the
Then eating of a mixture of Neem Buds/
early morning, devotees flock
Flowers for Bitterness, Jaggery, Raw
Hanuman temples to worship the
Mango for Tang, Tamarind Juice for
monkey god.
Sourness, and Green pepper for Heat.
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Rath Yatra Ratha Yatra is a major Hindu festival associated with Lord Jagannath held at Puri in the state of Orissa during the months of June or July (Rainy Season). Most of the city’s society is based around the worship of Jagannath (Krishna) with the ancient temple being the fulcrum of the area. The festival commemorates Krishna’s return to his home in Vrindavan after a long period of separation from the people there.
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Guru Purnima The day of full moon, Purnima, in the month of Ashadh of the Hindu calendar is traditionally celebrated as Guru Purnima by Hindus. On this day, devotees offer puja (worship) to their Guru. This was the day when Krishna-dwaipayana Vyasa – author of the epic Mahabharata – was born. Veda Vyasa, did yeoman service to the cause of Vedic studies by gathering all the Vedic hymns extant during his times, dividing them into four parts based on their use in the sacrificial rites, and teaching them to his four chief disciples – Paila, Vaisampayana, Jaimini and Sumantu.
Mahalakshmi Vrata Mahalakshmi Vrata or Varalaksmi Vratha is a sacred day in Hinduism. The ceremony is performed by married Hindu ladies on the Friday before the full moon in the month of Sravana in the Hindu calendar (corresponding to July/August in the western calendar). This is an important Vratha, meaning a vowed religious observance in Sanskrit. Varamahalakshmi Vratha is performed more commonly in the southern Indian States of Andhra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and also in parts of Maharashtra and Orissa. Puja is performed by married Hindu women to seek the blessings of the goddess Mahalakshmi, wife of Lord Vishnu, who is considered to be the abode of wealth and prosperity.
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Durga Puja Durga Puja is the biggest festival of Hindus in Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Bangladesh, and of Bengali Hindus all over the world. It is also called Akalbodhan, Vijaya Dashami, Dashain, and Dussehra. The actual period of the worship however may be over the preceding nine days Navaratri.
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Raksha Bandhan Raksha Bandhan (the bond of protection in Hindi) is a Hindu festival, which celebrates the relationship between brothers and sisters. It is celebrated on the full moon of the month of Shraavana. The festival is marked by the tying of a rakhi, or holy thread by the sister on the wrist of her brother.
Gowri Habba Gowri Habba is a Hindu festival celebrated a day before Ganesh Chaturthi. It is a significant festival in parts of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh & Tamil Nadu. Goddess Gowri, is the mother of Lord Ganesha is worshiped through out India for her ability to bestow upon her devotees courage & power.
Krishna Janmaashtami Krishna Janmashtami, also known
Ganesh Chaturthi
as Krishnashtami, or sometimes
Ganesh Chaturthi or Ganesh Festival is
merely as Janmashtami, is a Hindu
a day on which Lord Ganesha, the son
festival celebrating the birth of
of Shiva and Parvati, is believed to
Krishna, the eighth avatar (incarna-
bestow his presence on earth for all his
tion) of Vishnu. Krishna
devotees. It is the birthday of Lord
Janmashtami is observed on the 8th
Ganesha. The festival is observed in
day of the dark half (Krishna
during the month of Bhaadrapada,
Paksha) of the month of Shraavana
starting on the fourth day of the
in the Hindu calendar.
waxing moon period.
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Navratri Dasara, also called Navaratri, is among the most important festivals celebrated in India. Celebrations are unique, ranging from worshipping goddess Chamundeshwari (Durga) to exhibiting colorful toys on the day of ‘bombe habba’ in Kannada. There is a story for exhibiting toys called as Golu. In Southern India, Eastern India and Western India, the festival of Navaratri which culminates with Vijayadashami commemorates the legend in which the Goddess Durga, also known as Chamundeshwari or Mahishasura Mardini, vanquishes the demon Mahishasura. In Northern India, the same 10-day festival commemorates the victory of Rama, the prince of Ayodhya in present-day Uttar Pradesh, over Ravana, the ruler of Lanka, who according to the Ramayana had abducted Sita Devi, the wife of the former, and held her captive in his realm.
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Onam Onam the birthday of Sage Vamana is an annual harvest festival, celebrated mainly in the south Indian state of Kerala. It is a popular festival among the cultural repertoire of Malayalees, and falls during the month of Chingam (August/ September as per the Gregorian calendar), the first month of the Malayalam calendar, and lasts for ten days. Traditionally celebrated as a harvest festival, mythologically it is linked to Malayalee–Hindu folktales; but Onam is celebrated by people of all religions. Onam is observed when the moon is in Sravana nakshatra in the month of solar Bhadrapada.
Bhaubeej Bhaubeej/Bhau-Beej (in Marathi), Bhai-Dooj (in Hindi), is a ceremony performed by Hindus on the second day after Diwali. Sisters celebrate their love for their brothers by putting an auspicious tilak (made from vermilion or sandalwood paste) on their brothers’ foreheads. Sisters also bless their younger brothers. They perform an aarti to their brothers to honour them for taking care of them and protecting them, and pray for their well-being. Brothers lavish sisters with gifts and blessings (to younger sisters), along with pledges of protection and support.
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Chhath Chhath or Dala Chhath is a Hindu festival, unique to Bihar state, India and Terai, Nepal. This festival is also celebrated in the northeast region of India, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and some parts of Chhattisgarh. The word chhath denotes the number 6 in Hindi and the festival begins on the sixth day of the Hindu lunar month of Kartik, which corresponds to months of October-November in the Gregorian calendar. The festival of Chhath begins a week after Diwali. Chhath is the holiest Hindu festival of Bihar and extends to four days. This festival has particular significance in Bihar, but it is also celebrated in Uttar Pradesh and nearby areas. Even in Mumbai, migrants from the North celebrate Chhath beside the sea beach.
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Eid-ul-Azha (or Eid-ulAdha or Bakra-Eid) Eid al-Adha is a religious festival celebrated by Muslims and Druze worldwide as a commemoration of Ibrahim’s (Abraham’s) willingness to sacrifice his son, as commanded by Allah. It is one of two Eid festivals celebrated by Muslims, whose basis comes from the Quran.
Eid-ul-Fitr Eid ul-Fitr or Id-Ul-Fitr, often abbreviated to Eid, is a Muslim holiday that marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. Eid ul-Fitr starts the day after Ramadan ends, and is verified by the sighting of the new moon. Eid ul-Fitr lasts three days.
Zatra Zatra is the Konkani language term
Ramzan
for the pilgrimage festivals cel-
Ramadan is a Muslim religious
ebrated at Hindu temples in Goa.
observance that takes place during the
During the Zatra, the idols or murtis
9th month of the Islamic calendar,
of the Hindu deity or deities are
believed to be the month in which the
taken out in a special procession
Quran began to be revealed. The name
either in a “Palkhi” (sort of a
“Ramadan” is taken from this name.
Palanquin) or in a large, multi-
It is considered the most venerated
storied chariot called the Rath.
and blessed month of the Islamic year.
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Christmas The celebration of Christmas vary in the vast expanse of India. These variations are largely because India is a country of diversity. Christian community in India celebrate Christmas with pomp, gaiety and devotion. Celebrations of Christmas festival begin on the eve of Christmas on 24th of December and continue till New Year’s Day. Christians across the country mark the birth of Lord Jesus Christ on Christmas Day by participating in special masses organized in churches. Celebrations of Christmas are marked by carols, cakes, candles and decoration of Christmas Tree.
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Easter Easter, Pascha, or Resurrection Day, is the most important religious feast in the Christian liturgical year. It celebrates the Resurrection of Jesus, which Christians believe occurred on the third day after his crucifixion some time in the period AD 27 to 33. Many pagan elements have become part of the celebration, and those aspects are often celebrated by many Christians and non-Christians alike. Easter also refers to the season of the church year called Eastertide or the Easter Season.
Guru Nanak’s Birthday Jayanti Guru Nanak Sahib (the First Nanak, the founder of Sikhism) was born on 15 April 1469 at Rai-Bhoi-di Talwandi in the present district of Shekhupura (Pakistan), now Nanakana Sahib. The birthday of Guru Nanak Sahib falls on Kartik Puranmashi i.e. the full moon day of the month of Kartik. On this day the birthday is celebrated every year. The Shrine (Gurdwara) repsesenting the home of Baba Kalu (Father) and Mata Tripta (Mother) is called Gurdwara Janam Asthan, situated at Rai-Bhoi-di-Talwandi in the present district of Shekhupura (now Nanakana Sahib in Pakistan). Sikhs from all over the world gather here and celebrate the Gurupurab every year with great devotion and enthusiasm.
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Guru Govind Singh’s Birthday Jayanti Celebrated by Sikhs, the birthday of their tenth and last guru, this day witnesses’ large processions and special prayer gatherings at all Gurudwaras. Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Nanak (Sikh Guru), was born at Patna Sahib on December 22, 1666, (Poh Sudi Saptmi). His birthday generally falls in December or January or sometimes twice within a year as it is calculated according to the Hindu Bikrami Calendar, which is based on the lunar calendar. According to the Nanakshahi Calendar, the birthday of Guru Gobind Singh Sahib falls annually on January 5. The prasad of Ugadi/Gudi Padwa is the bitter leaves of the neem tree with jaggery. There are special foods prepared for this festival.
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Baisakhi Baisakhi is an ancient harvest festival in Punjab, which also marks beginning of a new solar year, and new harvest season. Baisakhi is one of the most significant holidays in the Sikh calendar, commemorating the establishment of the Khalsa in 1699; which marks the Sikh New Year.
Jamshed-e Navroz Nowruz is the traditional Iranian new year holiday celebrated even India. Nowruz or Navroz marks the first day of spring and the beginning of the Iranian year as well as the beginning of the Bahai year. As well as being a Zoroastrian holiday, it is also a holy day for adherents of Sufism and Bahais.
Teej Festival Teej festival, observed in parts of
Mahavir Jayanti
Rajasthan celebrates the arrival of
In Jainism, Mahavir Jayanti is the
Monsoons in June-July. Idols of
most important religious holiday. It
goddess Parvati are decorated and
celebrates the birth of Mahavira, the
parades in the streets accompanied
last Tirthankara. On Mahavir Jayanthi,
by singing, music, and dancing. The
Jain temples are decorated with flags
festival glorifies a married woman
and idols of Mahavira is given a
coming home to visit her parents,
ceremonial bath called the ‘abhishek’.
and many women visit their parents
The devotees then make an offering to
on the occasion of this festival.
the people.
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Deepavali Diwali, or Deepawali, (also called Tihar and Swanti in Nepal) is a major Indian and Nepalese festive holiday, and a significant festival in Hinduism, Sikhism and Jainism. Many legends are associated with Diwali. Today it is celebrated by Hindus, Jains and Sikhs across the globe as the “Festival of Light,� where the lights or lamps signify victory of good over the evil within every human being. The deity of wealth in Hinduism, Goddess Lakshmi is thanked on this day and everyone prays for a good year ahead. This is the common factor in Diwali celebrations all over the Indian subcontinent. Crackers and sweets form the main element of celebration.
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Mahamastakabhisheka The Mahamasthakabhisheka (or Mahamasthak Abhishek) is an important Jain festival held once every twelve years in the town of Shravanabelagola in Karnataka state. The festival is held in veneration of an immense 18 meter high statue of the Bhagwan (or Saint) Gomateshwara Bahubali. The anointing last took place in February 2006, and the next ceremony will occur in 2018. As the Mahamasthakabhisheka begins, consecrated water is sprinkled onto the participants by devotees carrying 1008 specially prepared vessels. The statue is then bathed and anointed with libations such as milk, sugarcane juice, and saffron paste, and sprinkled with powders of sandalwood, turmeric, and vermilion.
Paryushana Two of the most important festivals for the Jains are Paryushana and Diwali. During the 8-day festival, the Kalpa Sutra is recited in the Swetmbara sect, that includes a recitation of the section on the birth of Lord Mahavira on the fifth day. In the Digambara sect the Tatvartha-sutra of Umaswati is recited. On the dashami, the sugandha-dashami vrata occurs. The Digambaras celebrate Ananta-chaturdashi on the chaturdashi, special worship is done on this day. Many towns have a procession leading to the main temple.
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Kali Chaudas Naraka Chaturdashi, also known as “Chhoti (small) Diwali” or Kali Chaudas is a Hindu festival, which falls on the second day of the festival of Diwali. Kali means Dark (evil) and Chaudas - Fourteenth. Thus, celebrated 14th day of Ashwin, Kali Chaudas is the day allotted to the worship of Maha-Kali or Shakti and is believed that on this day Kali killed the wickedest. Also referred to as Narak-Chaturdashi, Kali Chaudas is the day to abolish laziness and evil which create hell. The strength to protect others is referred to as Kali, and if its used for God’s work it is called Mahakali. The ritual of Kali Choudas is strongly suggestive of the origin of Deepavaali as a harvest festival. On this day delicacies are prepared from pounded semi-cooked rice (called Poha or Pova).
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Buddha Purnima Vesak (Sinhalese) is the most holy time in the Buddhist calendar. Vaishakha is the name of the second month of the lunar Hindu calendar. Vesak is also known as Visakah Puja, Buddha Purnima or Buddha Jayanti in India, Bangladesh and Nepal, and Visakha Bucha in Thailand.
Kshamavaani Kshamavani or “Forgiveness Day” is a day of forgiving and seeking forgiveness for the followers of Jainism. It is celebrated on the 14th day of the holy month of Bhadrapad. “Micchami Dukadam” is the common phrase when asking for forgiveness.
Ther Thiruvizhah The most important festival
Ayudha Puja
associated with the Meenakshi
Instrument Worship or Ayudha Puja
Amman temple is the Meenakshi
(meaning Worship of the Weapons) is a
Thirukalyanam that is celebrated in
festival observed all over the country.
April every year. During that month,
Some people bless the tools by which
there are a number of events
they make a living, by cleaning them,
including the Ther Thiruvizhah
showing respects. Shop keepers and
(Chariot festival) and Theppa
merchants observe Ayudha Puja by
Thiruvizhah (Float festival)
decorating their shops, the cash
celebrated.
register etc in honor of Goddess Laxmi.
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Kerala Boat Festival The vibrant fiestas that bring alive the tranquil Kerala backwaters, when fierce Vallom Kallies (boat races) and water carnivals erupt every year in a dramatic spectacle and hold tens of thousands of people spell-bound, cheering the action, laying bets, goading the boatmen to row faster. At Aranmula, the Pamba River in the Kuttanad region, at Papiyad near Quilon, at Thayathangadi near Kottayam, the water carnivals and snake boat races herald the week of the great harvest festival of Onam. It is Kerala’s most important celebration and in scores of villages spread across central Kerala, competitive races featuring the smaller churulans, oadis, and irrutukuthies provide expression to the spirit of an intrepid, athletic people, born and bread near water. The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is one of the most famous.
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Chaand Raat Chaand Raat is an Urdu, Hindi and Bengali locution used in Pakistan, India and Bangladesh for the eve of the Muslim festival of Eid. The term is derived from the Sanskrit words chandra “moon” and raitri “night”. Chaand Raat is a time of celebration when families and friends gather in open areas at the end of the last day of Ramadan to spot the new moon, which signals the arrival of the Islamic month of Shawwal and the day of Eid. Once the moon is sighted, people wish each other Chaand Raat Mubarak (“Have a blessed night of the new moon”) or Eid Mubarak (“Blessings of the Eid day”).
Kumbh Mela Kumbh Mela is a Hindu pilgrimage that occurs four times every twelve years and rotates among four locations: Prayag (Allahabad), Haridwar, Ujjain and Nashik. Each twelve-year cycle includes one Maha Kumbh Mela (Great Kumbh Mela) at Prayag, which is attended by millions of people, making it the largest gathering anywhere in the world.
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Thrissur Pooram Thrissur Pooram is the most colourful temple festival of Kerala. It attracts large masses of devotees from all parts of the State and even outside. It consists of processions of richly caparisoned elephants from various neighbouring temples to the Vadakumnathan temple, Thrissur and the heavy drum beats.
Gahambar The seasonal festivals, called gahambars (meaning “proper season”), occur 6 times a year. Due to peculiarities of the Shahenshahi & Kadmi variants of the Zoroastrian calendar, in those variants the seasonal festivals are celebrated many months in advance and are said to reflect the six “primordial creations” of Ahura Mazda.
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Rajma Curry
Punjab
completely curry based. The level of spices can vary from
Dal makhani (Black Pulses in a typical gravy) Rajma (Red kidney bean) Choley (Whole Bengal gram) Sarson da saag te makki di roti (Mustard Leaves paste
minimal to very prevalent. One of the main features of
spiced up a bit and eaten with Fenugreek and flour mixed
Punjabi cuisine is its diverse range of dishes.
bread)
Punjabi cuisine can be non-vegetarian or completely vegetarian. It is widely popular however there is some ignorance in Western Cultures that Punjabi is cuisine is
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Murg Mussallam
Uttar Pradesh
cuisine consists of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian
Murg Mussallam (whole chicken with variety of spices) Lucknowi Biryani (slightly fried Rice with mutton) Dum Bhindi (Ladiesfinger cooked in a pot, where lid is
dishes. Uttar Pradesh has been greatly influenced by
sealed with a ring of dough.)
Mughal cooking techniques bears similarities to Kashmir
Kakori Kabab (Mutton cooked through a Skewer)
and Punjab, and the state is famous for its Nawabi foods.
Kofta (Balls made from vegetables, meat, chicken or fish)
The cooking patterns of the state are similar to those of Central Asia, the Middle East, and Northern India. The
Rajasthan
Traditional Dal Bati and Choorma
Rajasthani cooking was influenced by the war-like lifestyle
Daal-Baati (Spicy lentils with baked balls of wheat with
of the Rajput inhabitants and the availability of ingredients
lots of ghee)
in this arid region. Food that could last for several days and
Gatte ki Sabzi (Small cylinders of fritters made from
could be eaten without heating was preferred. Scarcity of
Bengal gram flour dipped in spiced curd and deep fried)
water and fresh green vegetables have all had their effect on the cooking.
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Mughlai Chicken
Mughlai Mughlai cuisine comes from the kitchens of the Mughal
Mughlai Chicken (Mughlai - Rich food cooked for
Empire. This cuisine is predominant in North India. It has a
Mughal emperors in that era)
Mughai paratha (Paratha - Indian Bread) dishes include kebabs, kofta, nihari, pulao, biryani. Paneer is Malai kofta (Clotted cream and balls made from strong influence of Muslim Cooking. Some of the popular
used for preparing vegetarian dishes. A Mughlai course is an
vegetables, meat, chicken or fish)
elaborate buffet spread over main course dishes with a
Seekh Kabab (Similar to Kakori Kebab)
variety of accompaniments.
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Avial
Kerala As many of Kerala’s Hindus are vegetarian by religion and because Kerala has large minorities of Muslims and Christians that are predominantly non-vegetarian, the cuisine has a multitude of both vegetarian and non-
Sadya (An elaborate vegetarian dish) Tapioca and Fish Curry Appam and Stew (Appam-Hoppers) Meen vevichathu (Fish Fried)
vegetarian dishes. Kerala cuisine is predominantly spicy. Coconuts play a vital role in all dishes.
Typical Dosa
Tamil Nadu
predominate the menu, including a variety of sweets and
Idli (Steamed cake) Upma/Uppittu (dish made of Semolina) Dosa/Masala Dosa/Sambar (Crispy rice and lentil
savories. It was developed over many centuries by Tamils
pancake or crepe, plain or stuffed along with very hot,
who live in the region of present day Tamil Nadu in
spicy lentil dish)
Southern India, India and Tamils of Sri Lanka.
Thayir sadam (steamed rice with curd)
Tamil cuisine is one of the oldest vegetarian culinary heritages in the world. Traditionally, vegetarian dishes
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FLAVOURS
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Kashmiri mutton curry served with boiled rice
Kashmir first major influence was the food of the Kashmiri Pandits.
Chamani qaliya (Indian Cottage cheese dish) Veth chaman (Big cooked pieces of Domestic Cheese in
The cuisine was then influenced by the cultures which
thick gravy)
Kashmiri cuisine has evolved over hundreds of years. The
arrived with invasion. The food usually uses a lot of yoghurt Dama oluv (Deep fried whole small potatoes in thick and turmeric, and avoids onion and garlic. The traditional
gravy)
wazwan feast is considered the height of Kashmiri cuisine.
Nadeir yakhean (Lotus Roots cooked with Curd)
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Hyderabadi Biryani
Andhra Pradesh Andhra foods are spicy, which is not very true. There is a lot
Pulusu (Cooked Redgram / Pigeonpea seeds) Hyderabadi Biryani ( A delicacy of Hyderabad with
of Nizam influence in the Hyderabadi Food. Telangana, the
Rice cooked with Meats/Vegetables/chicken/Fish/Prawns)
western region of Andhra Pradesh has some unique dishes
Baghara baingan (Eggplant in Peanut Gravy) Dalcha (Thick, hearty, gravy based lamb dish)
A lot of local food is rice based. It is often assumed that
in its cuisine. The Hyderabadi Biryani, of course, needs no description.
Bengal
Non-vegetarian Bengali Thaali
Bengali cuisine is well-known for the vast range of rice
Biriyani (A delicacy of Rice cooked with Meats/Veg-
dishes and various preparations of freshwater fish. The
etables/chicken/Fish/Prawns. But in Kolkata, the differ-
cuisine is rich and varied with the use of many specialised
ence is that Biryani has potatoes in it)
Macher Jhol (Fish in Bengali Sauce) lighter to richer and heavier. Rice remains common through- Doi Mach (A popular preparation using curd and fish) spices and flavours. The courses progress broadly from out the meal until the chaĂžni (chutney) course.
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Traditional boiled rice and curry
Orissa Oriya cuisine is rich and varied, while relying heavily on
Pakhala (A dish made of rice, water, and yoghurt, that is
local ingredients. The flavors are usually subtle and
fermented overnight)
Channa Dali (Gram curry) associated with Indian cuisine. Fish and other seafood such Dalma (Mixed lentils) Khechedi (Rice and lentils with vegetables) as crab and shrimp are very popular. Chicken and mutton delicately spiced, quite unlike the fiery curries typically
are also consumed. Only 6% of the population of Orissa is vegetarian, and this is reflected in its cuisine.
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Typical Udupi Thaali
Karnataka The cuisine of Karnataka comprises diverse vegetarian and
Hurali saaru (a spicy soup-like dish made from horse
non-vegetarian cuisines. The varieties’ influence can be
grams along with a variety of Indian spices)
found in the food habits of many regions and communities
Bisi bele bath (rice cooked with lentils, vegetables and
from the three neighbouring South Indian states. Coorg
spices)
district is famous for spicy varieties of pork curries while
Puliyogare (cooked rice flavoured with spicy tama-
coastal Karnataka boasts of many tasty sea food specialities. rind paste)
Mutton Vindaloo
Goa Goan cuisine consists of some small unique varieties of Goa,
Fish curry and rice
which was influenced by the Portuguese to a great extent.
Vindaloo (Fiery-hot ‘sweet and sour’ style curry. It can be
Coconut milk is an important ingredient of the Goan cuisine, cooked with any meat) cuisine is predominantly seafood based, the staple food of
Solachi kadi (A spicy coconut and kokum curry) Sorpotel (Prepared using pork along with the liver, heart
Goans is rice and fish.
& kidney cooked in spicy sauce)
and is used in many delicacies. Being a coastal city, the
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Khandvi
Gujarat Gujarati cuisine is predominantly vegetarian. The typical
Dhokla (made of ground Chickpeas soaked overnight
Gujarati Thali consists of Rotli (a flat bread made from
and steamed)
wheat flour), daal or kadhi, rice, and sabzi/shaak (a dish made up of different combinations of vegetables and spices). Mainly vegetarian, energy-efficient, environment-friendly, and highly nutritious with many subtle tastes.
Vada Pav
Maharashtra Maharashtrian cuisine covers a wide range from being
Kolhapuri taambda rassa (red curry)
Pandhra rassa (white curry) puran poli and aamras. The staple dishes of Maharashtrian Batatyachi Bhaji (Potato preparations) cuisine are based on bread and rice. The coastal regions of Bharli Vangi (Stuffed Aubergines/Eggplant) Konkan are more famous for the fish and seafood dishes. Dalimbya (Beans) Farasbichi Bhaji (French beans) extremely mild to very spicy dishes. Popular dishes include
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RIDES
OF INDIA
Indian Indian Airlines Limited or Indian was India’s state owned primarily domestic airline. It has now been merged with Air India for corporate purposes, though for now, continues to issue its own tickets.
Jet Airways Jet Airways is today a major airline operating domestic and international services with over 355 daily flights to 43 destinations across the country and 15 overseas. It was able to break the monopoly of then Air India and Indian Airlines until others joined.
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Kingfisher Airlines Kingfisher Airlines Limited is Dr Vijay Mallya owned airline and has the obvious sophistication attached to it. It is a major airline and has an extensive network to 37 destinations. It had through one of its holding companies United Breweries Group, acquired 26% stake in the budget airline Air Deccan and is looking for more.
Deccan Deccan was formerly known as Air Deccan. Air Deccan is operated by Deccan Aviation Ltd. It was started by Capt. Gopinath and its first flight was launched on 23rd August 2003 from Bangalore to Hubli. It was known popularly as the common man’s airlines, with is logo showing two palms joining together.
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Paramount Airways Paramount Airways is an airline based in Madurai, India. It operates scheduled services, mainly targeting business travellers. Its hub is Chennai International Airport. Paramount presently operates only in South India connecting Bengaluru, Chennai, Kochi, Coimbatore, Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Madurai and Thiruvanathapuram.
GoAir GoAir is a low-cost airline based in Mumbai and it operates domestic passenger services to 13 cities with 385 weekly flights. Its main base is Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai. Go Air is wholly owned by the Wadia Group, Mumbai based and majority owners of Bombay Dyeing and Britannia Industries.
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IndiGo Airlines IndiGo Airlines is a private domestic low-cost airline based in Gurgaon. Its main base is Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi. The airline is owned by InterGlobe Enterprises. The carrier has set a target of serving about 30 Indian cities by 2010 with a fleet size of 40 A320s. The airline will receive all 100 A320 family aircraft by 2016.
Deccan Aviation Deccan Aviation is India’s largest private sector charter aviation company with a network of bases spanning seven locations across the country. Promoted and operated by senior officers from the Indian Army Aviation, Deccan Aviation launched services from the corporate base at Bangalore in September 1997. The company boasts a fleet of 9 helicopters and 3 fixed-wing aircraft deployed across its bases at Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, Bhubaneswar, Hyderabad, Surat, Katra (J&K), and Sri Lanka.
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Heritage on wheels The Heritage on wheels comprises of 14 coaches including one restaurant and a bar lounge. The train is fully airconditioned. The entire Rajasthan has been a passion to be explored by the tourists. Bikaner and Shekhawati being lesser explored regions have been chosen for the Heritage on Wheels.
Metro Train While Kolkata got the first metro experience giving commuters, fast and sophisticated travel experience, Delhi too has joined the bandwagon with a sleek, fast and above all a reliable commuting. Many such metros are planned in various other cities.
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Trains The best way to travel in India is by the train. Just a ride on these railways will give a glimpse of life in India. Train travel is safe, cheap and comfortable especially in AC classes. With 63,000 km of rail routes and 6,800 stations, the railway network in India is the biggest in the world in terms of passenger kilometres. Indian Railways are also the world’s biggest employer, with over 1.5 million staff.
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Rent-a-car Renting a car is today pretty easy unlike few years back and there are plenty of options available in most cities and even inter-state car rentals. These are very safe and do not charge phenomenally also.
Private buses Private buses within the city are also in plenty in most cities, which take the burden off especially during peak hours.
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City Taxis City taxis of various colours and meter rating as well as different attitudes are seen across the country. In Mumbai, the taxis rule, restricting the Autos till the suburbs. Calcutta has it trademark yellow ruling the streets while taxis in Delhi are the typical black and yellow roof top ambassadors. Rajasthan has few heritage luxury taxis.
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Interstate luxury Buses The cities have some really genuine Volvo buses offering complete luxury when traveling interstate and they are very cheap to use. Timely stops for breakfast, lunch and dinner are provided and the buses are neat and reliable treading some really tough terrains.
Local Trains The Mumbai trains are a must to be experience. The mere crowd, the rush, the bajans, the card-play is something one cannot probably get to feel, anywhere else in the world.
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City Government buses The city buses are mostly government-run and are a good way to travel, but avoid peak times if certain cities because then foot-board travel is not advisable. But Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune and few other cities have very good bus services.
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Autorickshaws - 1 The three wheelers are huge in numbers in most cities and probably, except the urban Mumbai you will find them across the country in various colours, sizes and even wheels. In most cities you also find shared rickshaws, which mean you share the fare to reach your destination.
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Cycle rickshaws – 2 These are affordable way of transport but you will not find in every city. Of course you will not miss them in cities like Delhi, Bhubaneswar, Patna, Jaipur and more. In most areas in these cities, these are the most easily available.
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Hand-pulled rickshaws Kolkata is the only city in the world where you will find the hand-pulled rickshaws. Previously China too had them but was banned as they were considered too human. But in Kolkata, while a drive is on, there are thousands of people who earn a living out of it. Our suggestion, take a healthy puller and take a short drive just for the experience.
Trams Kolkata is also the only city in the country where trams are still operating. While many of the routes have been stopped, but recently an effort by the government has saved them and concrete tracks have been laid to increase their speed. It surely is a great experience to be part of an old world charm.
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Motobikes There are plenty of two-wheeler options that you can avail in India. Goa especially has hired motorbikes which one can use. Delhi, Mumbai and even Bangalore have the option, but not in every corner like you can find in most parts of Goa. There are motor-cycle rickshaws in few towns too.
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Lorry There are plenty of lorries in all cities which could also be used mutually agreeing on a price. While these are essentially goods carriers, often you will find them ferrying people.
Tractor Tractor is also a visible mode of travel especially in rural India. While again it is primarily used for agriculture purposes as well as ferrying goods, it is not uncommon to see them ferrying loads of rural travelers.
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Horse Wagon It is not common ride that you will get in most cities but they do exist and few parts of the country. But Horse pulled carts are again common in rural India. Sometimes only, you will find them on the city roads. But places like Kolkata does have options to show around certain areas, essentially meant for tourists.
Bullock Carts Bullock carts are again a common site in rural India and while mostly it is used to carry goods, often you will find people riding on. It is a great experience when you are in a rural part of India. You could also find them in the cities and could talk the rider for a ride around, most usually, at a price.
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Camels Camels riding are interesting way to roam around the sites of Rajasthan and there are plenty of options to that. All year round, the camels can ferry you across and it would be advisable to bargain for the same.
Elephant safari Elephants are available in some parts of the country, especially Kerala, Karnataka and Assam and there are many trips wherein you can take an elephant ride while going around the wilds. In Rajasthan you can get a ride around the forts.
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Jeep safaris Jeeps safaris are again essentially found in the wild and places like Rajasthan, Assam, Karnataka and more offer a lot many options as well as rates (mostly within a package).
Ropeways These are found in many hill stations and religious sites, either as cable cars or just plain ropeway which needs to be crossed by foot, across the country, be it Auli, Pawagarh, Kullu, Gulmarg and such like. They are also in religious sites like Nainadevi temple, Rishikesh and Haridwar and more.
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Bicycle ride This is cheap and a good way to get around the city. There are plenty of places in most cities which offer this service and you could check with your local contact and ask you travel agent of a contact.
Backwater Ride Of course, one just cannot forget the backwater cruise in Kerala. An ultimate experience, it comes in local boats to luxury houseboats and the prices go up accordingly. Then you have the houseboats in Srinagar and more in rural India.
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Reasons Galore Andhra Pradesh holds the distinction of inviting the most number of domestic tourists in the country. It is also competing well to get in a big chunk of international tourists too. G. Sudhir, Principal Secretary, Tourism, Government of Andhra Pradesh speaks about the potential areas that is on being targeted by the state government and also elucidates on why Andhra Pradesh should be a ‘must visit’ for any traveler. Andhra Pradesh is currently focusing immensely on
places of historical interest, there are a number of tourist
tourism sector. What are the major initiatives taken up by
attractions. The aim of the government is to develop
the government and which sectors within tourism is the
facilities for tourists at these different locations for their
state concentrating on?
convenience and also to attract more tourists. Tourism also has a very important role to play in providing
The government has recognised tourism as one important
employment opportunities for the youth in the state. In
sector and also as a growth engine for the economy.
this view the government has taken up programmes for
Andhra Pradesh is endowed with a rich history and
tapping the tourist potential of different places throughout
heritage and it has also got a number of important tourist
the state. The government has also initiated the policy of
attractions. Whether they are places of pilgrimage or
inviting private participation in development of tourism projects. Last 10 yrs or so, a number of projects have come up in the public-private partnership mode. If we look at the number of tourists visiting Andhra Pradesh, the figures are very satisfactory. In 2007, 11 crore tourists have visited the state from within the country. The number of tourists coming from abroad was 6.69 lakhs. This represented a sizeable increase over previous year. The major tourist destinations for domestic tourists are Tirupati, Srisailam, Vijayawada, Vishakapatnam, Yadgirigutta and more. Hyderabad is of course an important destination for tourists all over the country. Off late with the development of MICE, a number of conferences and conventions have been taking place. So MICE is a big thing in Hyderabad. With the international
G. Sudhir IAS
airport being operational on March 16, we expect a further
Principal Secretary, Government of AP
increase in the number of tourists coming from within India and abroad. A number of tourist places have been
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ANDHRA PRADESH developed in the last few years important among them are Rishikonda and Ananthagiri in Vishakapatnam district. New tourist amenities have been developed in Srisailam also. On the Godavari river, the tourism corporation has introduced cruises from Rajahmudry to Punnavaram, which have become popular. Large number of tourists are coming to see the Papikonda hills. Eco-tourism is also an important aspect in development of tourist facilities and towards this; two important projects have been sanctioned by the government of India, ministry of tourism. They are development of Kolleru lake in East Godavari district and Pulicat lake in Nellore district.
Historic Core, Development works at Padmakshi Temple, Warangal; Development of Anantharam Village,
What were the main tourism projects proposed? Development of tourist infrastructure facilities at Horsley Hills has been proposed at a total cost of Rs 591.33 lakhs. This is being undertaken with central assistance. Other projects are development of tourism at Kolleru lake under
Mahabubabad, development of Adventure Tourism at Puligundu, Chittoor; Development of Eco- Tourism Centre at Pulicat lake in Nellore District among others. What are the eco-tourism initiatives undertaken?
Eco tourism at a cost of Rs 862.48 lakhs; infrastructure
APTDC in coordination with AP-forest Department and
development works at Bhadrakali Temple as urban tourism
Vana Samrakshana Samithi (Tribal communities) has
project, Development of Heritage circuit at Tirupathi
identified eight Eco-tourism destinations. These are
Region; Tourist Infrastructure and Conservation Plan for
Maredumilli (East Godavari District), Nelapattu (Nellore District), Mamandur, Talakona, Nanniyal (Chittoor District), Balapalli (Kadapa District), Ettipotala (Guntur District), Kambala Konda (Visakhapatnam District). Ecotourism package would involve Nature Treks, Wildlife Tourism and Jungle Stays. APTDC has devetoped many good destinations in the state assisted by Government of India over the years. These include Ananthagiri Hill Resort at at Ananthagiri near Araku Valley which was completed with an investment of Rs.461.00 Lakhs; Lower Krishna valley Circuit at Nagarjunsagar, Chandavaram and Undavalli; Integrated Development of Araku-Vizag Tourism Circuit; Wayside amenities on National Highways, Balayogi Paryatak Bhavan, Budget Hotels at Chinchinada and Haritha Beach Resort, Rishikonda.
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50 Reasons – Why Tamil Nadu ? Tamil Nadu is a state with varied eco systems from beaches to cool hill stations, with wildlife forest to semi arid landscapes. With all these natural endowments comes the added attraction of enjoying holidays in luxury, supported by healthy infrastructure of good roads, hotels, exotic cuisine, hospitality of the people of the state, the richness of the Tamil Nadu’s culture and fine arts, heritage temples of the bygone period and telecommunications, across the length and the breadth of the state. Tamil Nadu has acted not upon impulse but with calculation. In every sphere, including Tourism, it has acted in a form which shows its maturity. It is probably one state, which, if it continues at the current focus levels in terms of tourism, will definitely capture a huge audience including a part of the international pie. With domestic tourism thriving, especially because of its treasure trove of architecturally immaculate temples along with hill stations and beaches, it sure is headed towards the big time. One of the most industrialised and urbanised states in India, it is home to many natural resources, rare flora and fauna, cool hill stations, grand Hindu temples of Dravidian architecture, beach resorts, multi-religious pilgrimage sites and three UNESCO World Heritage Sites It has been slowly developing without hyping upon its achievements. While politically it may be in the limelight, it sure has kept its pace of development under constant check. With various measures in effect and in the pipeline, the state is sure to throw some surprises in the future in terms of tourism development as well as quality traffic. For now, the Fifty best reasons for visiting the state would be;
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Pilgrim Tourism Tamil Nadu probably has the most number of temples in the country and large number of people flock the state because of them. It boasts some of the grandest Hindu temples of Dravidian architecture in the World. The temples are of a distinct style, which are famous for their towering Gopurams. The Brihadishwara Temple in Thanjavur, built by the Cholas, and the Shore Temple, along with the collection of other monuments in Mahabalipuram have been declared as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Rajagopuram of Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam - the largest functioning Hindu temple in the world - is the tallest temple gopuram in the world Madurai is home to one of the grandest Hindu temples in the World — Madurai Meenakshi Amman temple. Rameshwaram, Kanchipuram and Palani are important pilgrimage sites for Hindus. Other popular temples in Tamil Nadu include those in Gangaikonda Cholapuram, Chidambaram, Thiruvannaamalai, Aragalur, Tiruttani, Swamithoppe, Tiruchendur and Tiruvallur. St. Thomas Mount in Chennai, the place where St. Thomas, one of the disciples of Jesus Christ, was believed to have been martyred, is an important pilgrimage site for Indian Christians. The Santhome Basilica, supposedly built atop the tomb of St. Thomas, and the Vailankanni Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health — revered churches by the Catholics in India — are good examples of majestic church architectures in Tamil Nadu. Nagore, in Nagapattinam district, is an important pilgrimage site for Muslims.
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Hill Tourism Tamil Nadu is also home to many beautiful hill stations. Popular among them are Udhagamandalam (Ooty), Kodaikanal, Yercaud, Coonoor, Top Slip and Yelagiri. The Nilgiri hills, Palani hills, Shevaroy hills and Cardamom hills are all abodes of thick forests and wildlife.
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Culture Tamil Nadu has a long tradition of venerable culture. Unique cultural features like Bharatanatyam (dance), Tanjore painting, and Tamil architecture were developed and continue to be practised in Tamil Nadu. Tamil is the official language of Tamil Nadu and is one of the two classical languages of India, the other being Sanskrit. Tamil is also one of the Official languages of India. Tamil Nadu is known for its rich tradition of literature, music and dance which continue to flourish today.
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Wildlife Mukurthi National Park & Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve are the two tiger reserves in the state. Tamil Nadu has many National Parks, Biosphere Reserves, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Elephant and Bird Sanctuaries, Reserved Forests, Zoos and Crocodile farms. Prominent among them are Mudumalai National Park, The Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary, Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary and Arignar Anna Zoological Park. The mangrove forests in Pichavaram are also ecotourism spots of importance.
Pudukottai Once a Princely state, the Pudukottai District, is absorbing interest among Historians, Anthropologists, Archaeologists, and lovers of Arts and Architecture. The numerous megalithic dolmens and other forms in the district indicate the antiquity of this region. The history of Puddukottai is an epitome of the history of South India. The Pandyas, Cholas, Pallavas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Nayaks, Irukkuvelirs, Mutharaiyars, Thondaiman rulers, have ruled over the region. These rulers have built several beautiful temples. The collector’s office is situated in the New Palace, built by the Thondaiman ruler in Indo-Saracenic-Dravidian architecture.
Dharmapuri In Dharmapuri district, one of the Major river Cauvery flows. Hogenakkal is the place for water falls, Boating, Bathing and it is also famous for popular pilgrim centre namely Theerthamalai.
Suryanar Koil Situated 21 kilometres from Swamimalai is the Suryanar Koil built by King Kulottunga Chola 1 in the year 1100 A D. This temple is dedicated to the Sun God- Surya. Surya is known as the giver of health, success and prosperity. Every year in mid January, the harvest festival is celebrated in thanksgiving and to honour Surya.
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Cuisine Tamil cuisine has one of the oldest culinary heritages in the world. Traditionally, food is served on banana leaf. Rice is the staple food of Tamils. Traditional Tamil cuisine includes Dosai, Idly, Vadai, Pongal and Uthappam. These dishes are served along with Sambar, Rasam, Kootu, Aviyal, Chatni and Poriyal. The Chettinad region is famous for its spicy non-vegetarian cuisine. The Tirunelveli region is also famous for its unique wheat halwa. The fast food culture is witnessing a steady growth in Tamil Nadu in recent years.
Health Tourism Chennai is holding the masthead of the medical revolution happening across India. Chennai always had its share of Multi-speciality Hospitals; the fair share of this credit to its recent visibility can definitely be given to the Tamil Nadu Tourism Ministry. The Ministry has aggressively promoted the concept of medical tourism, serving not only domestic tourists but also bringing the rest of the world to Tamil Nadu. The quality of medical infrastructure offered here is at par with the world.
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Kanyakumari Kanyakumari, the southern most tip of peninsular India, is famous for its distinct and beautiful sunrise, Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Thiruvalluvar’s statue built off the coastline. Marina Beach in Chennai is one of the longest beaches in the world. The stretch of beaches from Chennai to Mahabalipuram is home to many resorts, theme parks and eateries.
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Economy Tamil Nadu’s gross state domestic product for 2007 is estimated at 275,000 crores (70 billion USD) in current prices. The state experienced a GDP growth rate of 12.1% for this period. Possessing the third largest economy (2004-2005) among states in India, Tamil Nadu is also the second most industrialised state next to Maharashtra. The per capita income for the period 2007 - 2008 for the state was Rs.43,000 ranking second among the South Indian states. It ranks third in foreign direct investment approvals (cumulative 1991-2002) of Rs.225,826 million ($5,000 million), next only to Maharashtra Rs.366,024 million ($8,100 million) and Delhi Rs.303,038 million ($6,700 million) and the State’s FDI investment constitutes 9.12% of the total FDI in the country. Tamil Nadu was the winner of fDimagazine’s Asian Region of the Future award 2005/06 in terms of FDIs, surpassing Australia’s New South Wales. Unlike many other states, the economic resources are quite spread out, rather than concentrated in a small industrialised area.
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Chennai Chennai’s economy has a broad industrial base in the automobile, technology, hardware manufacturing, and healthcare industries. The city is home to much of India’s automobile industry and is the country’s second-largest exporter of information technology (IT) and information-technology-enabled services (ITES), behind Bangalore. The city is served by an international airport and two major ports; it is connected to the rest of the country by five national highways and two railway terminals.
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Chidambaram Chidambaram is also known as Thillai, since the place was originally a forest of the Thillai, botanically known as Excearia Agallecha shrubs. It is an important pilgrim centre and a holy place for Saivites as the famous Nataraja Temple is located here. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this ancient temple of the Cholas is unique because not only is it devoted solely of the art of Bharatanatyam, but also it is one of the rare temples where Shiva is represented by a ‘space’ rather than the customary Lingam. Spread over an area of 40 acres with a gopuram on each side, the temple is distinguished by five sabhas or courts. Though non-Hindus are not allowed inside the sanctum sanctorum, replicas of this idol are easily available in most handicraft emporia and shops selling art and curio objects.
Sivagangai Sivagangai is the district head quarters of Sivagangai District. It is situated 45 kms south East of Madurai and 17 kms north of Manamadurai. It is connected by road and rail with all-important towns in the state. The founder of Sivagangai was Sasivarnana Periya Udaya Thevar and he was the first king of Sivagangai dynasty. The palace of the ex rulers of Sivagangai can be seen here i.e. the Sree Viswanatha and Sree Subramaniya temples. There is a big Teppakkulam or Tank in front of the palace, which adds to the splendour of the town.
Kanchanur This Shivastalam is associated with Sukran (Venus) and is maintained by the Madurai Adhinam. It is located in a quiet hamlet of Thiruvaduturai. This shrine is also referred to as Palaasavanam, Bhrammapuri and Agnistalam. Brahma is said to have been blessed with a vision of Shiva’s marriage with Parvati here. Men visit to pray for the well-being of their wives.
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Kanchipuram Kanchipuram (75 kms from Chennai) is one of the seven holy cities in the country, and a visit is believed to bestow salvation. Kanchipuram once had over a thousand temples. Today, there are more than a hundred extant, and all are worth a visit. Kanchipuram also has some notable churches and mosques. Ancient Kanchipuram is the city of thousand temples and is one of the seven most sacred pilgrim centers for the Hindus. This city is also known as Kanchi. There now remain about 126 temples in Kanchi and a few more in its outskirts. The city was the capital of the early Cholas and it was the Pallava capital between the 6th and 9th centuries, A.D.
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Tirunelveli The temple of Swami Nelliappar and sri Kanthimathi Ambal in Tirunelveli (83 kms from Kanniyakumari) date back at least to the 7th century, Sambandar has sung it, and Ninrasir Nedumaran, the Pandya, is said to have commissioned the making of musical pillars in a Mandapa in this temple. Originally, there were two temples side by side, dedicated to Lord Nelliappar and Goddess Kanthimathi. A mandapa build in 1647, linked them. The oldest inscription belongs to the middle of the 10th century.
Madurai Madurai, known as the Athens of the East, is a place of great historical and cultural importance. It is the oldest city in Tamil Nadu and lies on the banks of the river Vaigai. Madurai is one of the liveliest in South India and was originally known as Kadambavanam or the ‘Forest of Kadambam’ or the Nauclea Cadamba. Madurai is famous for hosting one of the five traditional dance halls of Lord Shiva, Silver Hall or the Velli Ambalam. It is situated within the Meenakshi Temple. Madurai was the capital of the dynasty. The Meenakshi-Sundereswarar Shrine is its central glory.
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Rameswaram Rameswaram (Chennai to Rameswaram-572 kms) is a small island in the Gulf of Mannar, is a major pilgrim centre. It is connected to the mainland by road and railway bridges. Rameswaram is a holy place known for its 22 theerthas or springs in and around the main temple. This place is equally sacred to both Vaishnavites and Saivites. According to the Hindu Mythology, if one visits Rameswaram and prays to Lord Shiva one will be relieved of one’s sins. It is 197 metres long. Ramanathaswamy temple is renowned for its magnificent corridors and massive sculptured pillars. The third corridor of Ramanathaswamy temple is the longest one in the world.
Kanyakumari Beach Kanyakumari Beach, at the southern most tip of India, where the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal meet, lies Kanyakumari, an important pilgrim center. Kanyakumari is famous for its spectacular sunrises and sunsets, especially on full moon days. The beach itself is a beautiful sight with multi-coloured sand. There a lighthouse from where one can get a panoramic view. The Government museum offers a good collection of scriptural art crafts of Tamil Nadu. Muttukkadu Beach is yet another beach resort created in memory of erstwhile “Kaveripoompattinam”, a legendary Port city, washed away by the sea. The present poompuhar art gallery complex was designed on the basis of the information available in the Tamil epic ‘Silapathikaram’.
Thiruvalampuran (Keezh Perumpallam) This is an ancient Saivite temple where legend has it that Ketu, the other planetary node of the nine celestial bodies worshipped Shiva. Raghu and Ketu are associated with the legend of churning of the ocean by Lord Shiva. There is a shrine dedicated to Ketu in this temple.
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Thanjavur Thanjavur rose to glory during the later Chola period between the 9th and 11th centuries A.D. It also flourished later during the rule of the Nayaks and Mahrattas. It has been the treasure house of art for centuries. It is called the ‘Rice Bowl of Tamil Nadu’. Thanjavur is well known throughout the world for being the home of the Brahadeeswara temple, the magnificent palace, Rajah Serfoji’s Saraswathi Mahal Library, Art Gallery and also for its exquisite handicrafts like the Art Plate, pith work, bronze icons, Thanjavur paintings and the classical South Indian musical instruments.
Aruvikkarai Situated in lush green surroundings, Aruvikkarai is a small town in Kanyakumari District. Hanging Bridge at Mathur is the prime attraction. Adhikesava Perumal Temple at Thiruvattar, Kumarakovil at Vellimalai, Nagaraja Temple at Nagercoil, and Thriparappu Waterfalls are nearby tourist spots.
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Mamallapuram There are, or rather were, two low hills in Mamallapuram, about 400m from the sea. In the larger one, on both sides, there are eleven excavated temples, called Mandapas, two “open air bas reliefs”, one of which is unfinished, and a third enclosed one. Out of a big rock standing free nearby there is a “rock cut” temple, called a “ratha”. This type is unique to Mamallapuram. Out of the other hill, much smaller and standing about 200m to the south, are fashioned five more raths, and three big sculptures of a Nandi, a Lion and an Elephant.
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Marina Beach Marina Beach is located on the eastern side of Chennai, adjoining the Bay of Bengal. Watching the sun set and rise from the beach is an enthralling experience. Though bathing and swimming can be dangerous, as the undercurrent is very strong, even then people come for swimming here. In the evenings, the beach is virtually a fair ground with various kinds of entertainment and food stalls lining the beach. With its natural sandy beauty and spacious promenade and beautiful gardens, the beach is a major attraction for tourists visiting Chennai.
Salem The name Salem is derived from word “Sailam� denoting an area surrounded by mountains. These mountains were important factor for Salem’s industrial Development. Salem is famous for stainless steel, magnesite and handlooms. Kottai Marriamman Temple and Sugavaneeswarar Temple are located in the heart of the Town.
Vaitheswaran Koil Within the Vaitheswaran Koil, there is a special shrine dedicated to Ankarakan or Chevaai (Mars). The belief is that offering prayers to Ankarakan will bestow valour, victory and strength. Upon entering the temple, devotees first go to the Siddhamrita tank. The water is said to have curative properties for various skin ailments. There is also a widespread belief that a visit here would remove obstacles which defy marriage.
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Kodaikanal Kodaikanal depicts a story of Lieutenant Ward, an Englishman, who climbed up from the Kunnavan village of Vellagavi to Kodaikanal in 1821 to survey the area on the hilly ranges of Palani. In 1834, the Madurai Collector climbed the hill from Devadanapatti and built a small bungalow at the head of Adukkam pass near Shenbaganur. In 1836, Dr White visited Kodaikanal and recorded his observations, and these were very useful to botanists later. In 1845, American Missionaries built the first two bungalows “Sunnyside” and “Shelton”. Later, six American families came up the hill and stayed for the first time in Kodaikanal. Following this, the British also built houses here. The 20th century saw elite Indians enter Kodaikanal to enjoy its charm and beauty and to harness its natural wealth for development.
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Ooty Called the Queen of Hill Stations, Ooty is the most popular hill station in the South. Located in the Western ghats at a height of 2240m, Udhagamandalam, as it is also known as, is the headquarters of the Nilgiris district where the two ghat ranges meet. Nature has been generous with this region, which is by far the most beautiful in the state. Apart from coffee and tea plantations, trees like eucalyptus, pine and wattle dot the hillside in Udhagamandalam and its environs. Ooty with smaller hill stations of Coonoor – 19 kms and Kotagiri, 31 kms from Ooty are the other hill stations of this district.
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Elagiri Hill Elagiri Hill is one of the popular hill stations of Tamil Nadu. Situated amidst four mountains well known for its salubrious climate prevail throughout the year. Tribal people live in villages in these hills.
Tiruchirapalli During the rule of the British this town was called Trichnopoly. Today it is Tiruchirapalli and is also called Trichy for short. This city is situated on the banks of the Cauveri river. Tiruchirapalli is the fourth largest city in the state and it was citadel of the early Chola rulers. The city is a fine blend of the traditional and modern and the town developed was built around the Rock Fort. Apart from the fort there are several churches, colleges and missions dating back to the 1760s. This town is also called the ‘Rome of the East’ because every Christian denomination has some kind of an establishment in this city. With excellent infrastructural facilities Tiruchirapalli is a good base to see east and central Tamil Nadu. Trichy’s most famed landmark, Rock Fort, is an 83m high rock which is the only out crop in the otherwise flat lad of the city. The most amazing fact about the rock is that is one of the oldest in the world – approximately 3,800 million years, which makes it as old as the rocks of Greenland and older than the Himalayas.
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Chettinad The Land of Heritage & Devotion It is a place that enchants and enhances the soul. Chettinad is the homeland of the Nattukottai Chettiars called the Nagarathars, are a prosperous banking and business community. It is a tourist’s paradise with a difference, and one which certainly cannot be missed by the discerning tourist. A stray thundershower adds to the charm of the place, churning up the red soil, and filling up the temple tanks. The palatial mansions, makes Chettinad a place of rare charm, and a must visit destination.
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Courtallam Waterfalls High up in the Western ghats, on the Kerala border, Courtallam is halfway between the towns of Shencotti & Tenkasi in Tamilnadu. It is known as the “Spa of the South� for its numerous waterfalls. A major tourist attraction for bathers during the peak summer seasons from June to September. There are six major waterfalls, main falls, Shengadevi Falls, Honey Falls, Five Falls (made of five distinct streams) and the Old Falls.
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Poompuhar Poompuhar is in the Sirkali Taluk of Nagapattinam district and it is also known as Kaveripoompattinam. The place has great historical importance.
Theni Theni is one among the choicest tourist destinations in the state. There are many tourist attractions such as captivating dams, waterfalls and countless pilgrim centres. These unique places warm the soul and the rustic ambience and hospitality of the local people make the destinations in Theni district a tourists’ delight. Resounding cascades, silver-lined clouds resting atop green hilltops, sheer rock faces and temples of antiquity, are the stuff that distinguish the tourism destinations of Theni District.
Kotagiri Kotagiri is located 16 km away from Ooty and it is the oldest hill station of the Nilgiris. Kotagiri is situated at an altitude of 1950m, which was once a British hill resort that dates back to1819 and is quieter than Ooty. Kodanad Viewpoint and Catherine Falls are a few places to visit.
Ketty Ketty is famous for having the highest railway station in the country, situated at a height of 7000 ft, in the Nilgiri Mountains of South India. The weather of Ketty valley is salubrious. Ketty is a wealth of natural beauty reposing in Wenlock Downs, the Municipal Gardens and Doddabetta Peak, at 2623m the highest in the Nilgiris.
Thoothukudi Thoothukudi is head quarters of the Thoothukudi district and it is famed for pearl fishing, production of salt, fishing and other related business. The added attraction to this port city is because it has a natural harbour. There are stretches of sunny and sandy beaches that are restful and calm.
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Yercaud This quiet little hill station on the Shevaroy hills of the Eastern ghats is the only one of its kind in northern Tamil Nadu. While the rest of the region is generally dry, including the predominantly short and rocky hills of the Eastern ghats, Yercaud presents a welcome contrast with its cool climate where the temperature never rises above 30 C and never dips below 13 C. it is also a less expensive place than either Udhagamandalam or Kodaikanal.
Velankanni Velankanni is one of the most visited pilgrim centers in India. It is a town situated on the shores of Bay of Bengal, fourteen kilometers from Nagapattinam. This renowned Basilica of Our Lady of Health draws pilgrims from all over the world. Not only Christians but also the people of other faiths come to this church to pray at the shrine of “Our Lady of Health.� This Basilica has been extended at the back of the original church and it has now two floors, where services are held everyday. The Gothic style of architecture is a unique feature of the Church. The church itself is an imposing building with inspiring architecture.
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Festivals Tamil Nadu has perhaps the largest number of religious celebrations in the year. Most of the temple-festivals take place in September-October and in the post-harvest months of March-June. The main deity is draped in colorful bright costumes and adorned with very valuable and rare items of jewellery of the distant past. The deity is mounted on specially constructed carriers called ‘Vahanams’ and taken round the temple in processions. The seasons of the Tamils are called Kar, Kuthir, Munpani, Pinpani, Ilavenil and Mudhuvenil. Each of two month duration they denote the cloudy, rainy and chill weather respectively. The major festivals of Tamil Nadu include Pongal Festival, Natyanjali Dance Festival, Kavadi Festival, Karthigai Deepam, Jallikatu Bull Fight, among many others
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Tranquebar The historical Fort Dansborg at Tarangambadi, a relic of the Danishera in India, was constructed nearly four centuries ago. It served as the residence of Danish Governor for 150 years and was recently taken up for restoration. Also known as Tranquebar, Tarangambadi, about 275 km from Chennai was chosen by the Danes to expand trade in the 17th century A.D.
Erode The District headquarters Erode is popular centre for Turmeric and Handloom Textiles . The Railway junction connects the town to all part of India. There is government museum in the Municipal Office campus. Kodumudi is a popular pilgrim centre and it is located in the bank of River Kaveri. The river takes diversion in its flow from south to east at this place. The famous Magudeswarar temple here houses the Gods - Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma - all in one campus. It is 40 km from Erode.
Vellore Vellore is now pulsating with activities as a commercial, administrative, educational and medical centre. It had the privilege of being the seat of the Pallava, Chola, Nayak, Maratha, Arcot Nawab and Bijapur Sultan kingdoms. Vellore grew into a bustling town gradually since the 6th century changing the rulers and growing in importance.
The Navagrahas For believers in astrology and the influence of planets over individual destiny, Tamil Nadu is a great destination. Navagrahas simply mean nine planets and there are nine temples located in Tamil Nadu representing each. All nine of them are located within a sixty kilometre radius around Kumbakonam in Thanjavur district. Thirunageswaram is a vast temple known for its shrine to Raghu, one of the nine celestial bodies of the Navagragas.
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Thiruvenkadu There is a reference to this temple in the Valmiki Ramayana. Therefore it is said that the oldest part of temple is more than 3000 years old. Dedicated to Budhan (Mercury) this temple in Thiruvenkadu makes up the last of the Navagraha Temples. Budhan is said to bestow wisdom and intellect.
Namakkal Namakkal is the headquarters of Namakkal District. Namakkal town lies at the foot of a small hillock. There is a fort on the hill. There are two rock窶田ut cave temples located on both sides of the hill dedicated to Narasimhaswamy and Ranganathasamy. There is also an 18 feet tall Hanuman statue carved out of a single stone at the Hanuman Temple. This town is famous for the automobile industry and poultry farms.
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Alangudi This is regarded as a ‘Gurustalam’ (Abode of Jupiter) where Lord Dakshinamurthy is held in great reverence. The shrine attracts a large number of devotees when Jupiter transits between zodiac signs. This place abounds with innumerable legends that lend colour and meaning to Hindu mythology and divinity. For instance, Dakshinamurthy is said to have advised the Devas who had swooned under the impact of the poison that came out of the churning of the ocean. Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva, is said to have been reborn on the banks of Amrita Pushkarini within the temple precincts before being reunited with Shiva.
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Thingaloor Though there is ambiguity about when this temple was built, historians agree that it must have been in existence since before the beginning of the Bhakti period (well before the seventh century AD). Dedicated to the Moon (Chandra in Sanskrit and Thingal in Tamil), a visit to this temple is said to grant a comfortable and long life. In astrology, Chandra is the planet that removes stress and sorrow.
Thirunallar This is the only temple that is dedicated to Lord Sani (Planet Saturn). When the planet Saturn transits between zodiac signs, millions of devotees throng this shrine. The legendary King Nala is said to have been relieved of his afflictions which were due to the malefic influence of Saturn, after worshipping here. Of the numerous tanks (teertams) , the Nala teertam is the most important one. It is believed that bathing here washes away all kinds of misfortune and afflictions.
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India Tourism 2007-2011
Indian Tourism Industry Forecast (2007-2001) The Drivers Government Infrastructure Support Indian tourism industry holds immense potential for providing impetus to other industries through backward and forward linkages and can generate huge revenue earnings for the country. In the recent 2007-08 budget, the provision for building tourist infrastructure has been increased from US$ 95.6 Million in 2006-07 to US$ 117.5 Million in 2007-08.
100% FDI in Real Estate In an effort to encourage foreign investment, the Indian government modified its restrictive laws in February 2005 to allow 100% FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) to develop new housing, commercial properties, hotels and hospitals. Foreign investors aren’t allowed to buy buildings already standing or undeveloped land. India also allows foreign funds to own stakes of as much as 24% in the nation’s publicly traded real estate companies.
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India Tourism 2007-2011 The lifting of restrictions over the FDI has not only helped in improving the hospitality industry’s infrastructure, but the level of services offered by various players operating in the industry was also improved with it. The entry of foreign players has resulted in a healthy competition within the industry benefiting both the industry and the consumer, as they’re experiencing the improved level of services. Booming Aviation Sector The booming aviation industry in India is not only benefiting domestic travelers but also the international tourist who are coming to India. Arrival of low cost airlines has resulted in decline of airfare as well as increase in the connectivity to various locations across India, which are not being catered by other airlines. These low fare airlines have resulted in a decrease of up to 10%-20% in the total traveling packages. These airlines offer discounts up to 35%-50% on airfare for advanced booking up to one month to two months. These low cost airlines are one of the key factors responsible for increasing domestic tourism, as travel budget or cost of travel packages offered by various tour operators across the country have dramatically declined due to reduced cost of transportation. Growing Economic Activity in Indian Subcontinent With booming economy in India and growing economic activities across Indian subcontinent, business travel has also increased across the region. During 2005 and 2006, India along with China accounted for almost 35% of the business trips in the region. Perceived as a service hub across the globe, India has attracted large number of global companies to setup their base here. And this has resulted in increased flow of business travelers in the country.
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India Tourism 2007-2011 Increased Competition in Hotel Sector A number of multinationals have either entered or strengthened their presence in the hotel sector in India. Players like Four Seasons are also likely to enter the Indian market in the future. Besides, Indian hotel chains are also expected to expand their international presence. A combination of all these factors is expected to result in a strong emergence of the budget hotels. This would potentially lower the cost of travel and related costs. Incredible India’ Campaign An increase in the number of tourists in the past years is the result of various aggressive marketing campaigns by the ministry of Tourism, India. The ‘Incredible India’ campaign certainly clicked with foreign tourists -over the past two years, tourist arrivals in India grew at a steady 13.92% annually from 2004 to 2006. The number of tourist arrivals in 2004 was 3476632, which increased to 4512098 in 2005. In 2005, India was ranked fifth on the Conde Nast Travelers Readers Travel Awards 2005 list -up from the 11th slot three years earlier. Personal Disposable Income Personal disposable income per head increased with the CAGR value of 10.11 % for the period spanning 20012006. This increasing disposable income has given thrust to both outbound and domestic tourism in India.
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Opportunities Medical Tourism The cost advantage with no compromise on the quality of service makes India more preferred destination for treatment. For example, if Open heart Surgery costs more than US$ 18,000 in UK and double that in the US, a few Indian hospitals, such as Global in Hyderabad, have the wherewithal to do it in around US$ 4,500. The following table shows the cost comparison of different treatments in India and in United Kingdom in terms of US$. Procedure charges for many surgeries in India are cheaper in comparison to US. The difference in cost can range from 50% to 70% in most of the surgical procedures.
star hotels, but would still prefer to have good facilities. Online Tourism The online booking of tickets, hotels, and resorts provides opportunities to travel portals for cashing in on the booming demand for hotel rooms. There has been a surge in hotel booking on travel portals in the past. Online travel industry is a US$ 800 Million industry in India.
Commonwealth Games -2010 & Cricket World Cup -2011 India will host Commonwealth Games in 2010 and Cricket World Cup in 2011. The events are expected to increase both inbound tourism and domestic tourism in the country. With more than ten million foreign visitors expected to visit India for watching the events, India’s share in global foreign tourism would go up almost 1.5% in 2010 as compared to just 0.54% in 2006.
Outbound & Domestic Tourism As said earlier, the personal disposable income is one of the significant drivers of the tourism industry. Per head disposable income will increase with the CAGR value of 10.69% for the period spanning 2007-2011. Budgeted Hotels
Increasing disposable income will definitely open the opportunities for the outbound as well
Indian hotel industry is biased towards luxury five-star
as domestic tourism.
hotels, with business travelers constituting the bulk of
Challenges
their clientele. However, there has been a sharp increase in the importance of four-star hotels over the years. This is because there is a huge and growing market for “budget� hotels catering to the large number of domestic and international travelers who cannot afford to stay in five-
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Soaring Real Estate Prices Unremitting increase in real estate prices across India, especially in tier 1 and tier 2 cities, is posing as a barrier for organizations willing to enter Indian hospitality sector.
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India Tourism 2007-2011 The developers and hoteliers are forced to build lucrative luxury hotels rather than much-needed economy class hotels due to the increasing real estate prices. ~s, investment in economy class hotels will yield them with low rate of return and longer break-even period as compared to luxury hotels, which result in higher returns and shorter break-even period. Infrastructure Constraints One of the biggest challenges faced by Indian tourism sector is the infrastructure constraints that range from transportation facilities, connectivity to a specific destination, and technological constraints such as absence of proper communication facilities in rural areas (rural tourism). There are many villages across the country, which can emerge as tourist destinations and can be foreign exchange earners for Indian economy, but prevailing infrastructure constraints are acting as hindrance for the growth of tourism industry in rural India. Insufficient Hotel Rooms With booming tourism industry and upcoming Commonwealth Games in 2010, there exists a demand-sup fly
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India Tourism 2007-2011 mismatch in terms of availability of hotel rooms in different categories (both Luxury and Budgeted). There exist an immediate requirement of approximately 100,000 new hotel rooms but only 75% of this demand would be met by the projects that are currently underway. This comes as a challenge for the tourism industry. The insufficient number of hotel rooms will give an impression of non-professionalism to the international tourists and they may drop the idea of revisitir1g’the country. Moreover, it will tarnish the image of the country of being ‘tourist destination with all facilities in place’. Susceptible to Geo-Political Events Since tourism is a global phenomenon, any adverse development on the geo-political front is likely to impact global tourist flows. India is no exception to the same, as was evident during events like September 11, Iraq war and SARS.
Fierce Competition Undoubtedly, there is fierce competition among Asian countries for tourist dollars. India’s new tourism competitors are China, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand. These countries are putting more strategies in force to earn more income by developing new destinations. Laos launched its own ‘Visit Year’ in 2006. Vietnam is attracting tourists with world heritage sites and China is further opening up for tourism. Meanwhile, traditional rivals Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, South Korea, and New
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India Tourism 2007-2011 Zealand -have been working on more destination highlights. Tour operators expect tough year ahead as inbound business could suffer due to the lack of new destinations compared to emerging neighboring countries, while hitting outbound business. Though India features various tourist attractions and a good image in terms of safety and cheap destinations, repeated visitors are apparently becoming bored and exploring other choices in neighboring countries. High Input Cost The input costs in India are high as compared to other parts of the world. The high input costs are posing as one of the barriers for various airlines in India. Like fuels costs in India are 50% higher than ‘other locations. ATF prices in India continue to be far higher than global rates, making ATF account for 35% -40% of operating cost, as against global average of 20-25%.
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FINDING FIFTY Biju Mathews,
When we thought of Fifty Best in India as our theme for the second
Dy. General Manager Indian Express (Mumbai) Group
edition of Best of India, we had a fundamental question in our minds. Can we dwarf India to such an extent and still show the best of India? It was indeed a daunting task. A task, which not many have even thought of, primarily because of the fact that India cannot be portrayed as complete, within a specified number…Such is the vastness of the country. But we stuck to the task of finding the fifty best in India and in many ways, we believe we accomplished what we envisaged. In this edition we have tried to identify the fifty best in many ways, while some have been subdued due to the immense vastness. Finding and presenting the fifty best in India needed expertise. We had to find partners from varied areas within the travel and tourism fraternity and thankfully, we found some of the best. I would like to acknowledge the support and assistance provided by some of the State Tourism Boards, Dinodia Pictures, Distant Frontiers and RNCOS. They definitely added a lot of value to the entire effort. I hope this endeavour of ‘Finding Fifty’ Best of India will surely be of value to you. I am sure we will continue to find more reasons to showcase the best of India.
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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
States Karnataka Tourism, Jharkhand Tourism, Jammu & Kashmir Tourism, Tamil Nadu Tourism, Andhra Pradesh Tourism, Orissa Tourism Content Partners RNCOS DISTANT FRONTIERS References www.incredibleindia.org www.wikipedia.org Oberoi Group www.deviresorts.com Photographs Dinodia Photo Library (P) Ltd., 13th Vithoba Lane, 2nd Floor, Vithalwadi, Kalbadevi Road, Mumbai- 400002, Website: www.dinodia.com PHOTO CREDITS A. Lalitha, Aditya Singh, Ajit Parekh, Akash Banerjee, Alim Bolar, Angelo D’silva, Anil Dave, Anirudha Cheoolkar, Arun Mishra, Ashvin Mehta, Aspi Patel, B. P. Maiti, B.D.Garekar, Blain Harrington, Bowater Peter, D.K.Kanani, Datta Berde, Dayaram Chawda, Debashish Banerjee, Debasish Banerjee, Duttagupta, Goutam Chatterjee, Gunshe Ramchandani, H. Satish, H.R.Modi, Hari Mahidhar, Hemant Daiya, Hemant Patil IPS Co, Issac Kehimkar, J.R. Raul, Jagdish Agarwal, Jagdish Shind, Jai Shankar Sharma, K.J. Chugh, Kiran Nama, M. Amirtham, Madhusudan Manek, Madhusudan Tawde, Manoj Navalkar, Manoj Patil, Milind Ketkar, N. M. Jain, N.G.Sharma, Nadirsh Naoroji, Nirmal Masurekar, Nirmala Mishra, Nitin Kelvalkar, Nitin Kelvalkar, Nitin M.Kelvalkar, P. K. Bhatia, P.K. De, P.K.Bhatia, Photochromy, Picture Finders, Pradip Gupta, Pramod Mistry, R. A. Acharya, R. M. Modi, R.A.Acharya, R.K.Makharia, R.L. Kothari, Rajesh Sharma, Rajesh Vora, Rajinderkumar Wadhwa, Ranjana Desai, Ranjit Sen, Ravi Shekhar, Roger Lemoyme, S. Nagaraj, Sarla Modi, Satish Parashar, Shivji, Shyam Manchekar, Somendra Singh, Steve Vidler, Subhash Sharma, Sudharak Olve, Sudharak Olve, Sudip Bhaumik, Sunil Kapadia, Suraj Sharma, Tukaram Karve, Vinay Parelkar, Viren Desai, Vishwanath Mishra, Vivek Ivan Thayil, Vivek Manek
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