Showing posts with label travel. Show all posts
Did you know that there are actually different significances and ways of celebrating the festival in different parts of India?
Also known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali, or Deepavali is celebrated
by Hindus across the world to mark the triumph of good over evil. While
lighting oil lamps and bursting firecrackers are the norm during this
occasion, did you know that there are actually different significances
and ways of celebrating the festival in different parts of India?
It
is a great time for culture-hungry travellers to travel around India
during this auspicious time – with communities from North to South India
celebrating Deepavali in different ways. The vastness and diversity of
India and the richness of its history truly come to life during this
sacred festival.
Get ready to eat, pray, love as Hotels.com sheds some light on the different ways this festival is celebrated in our country.
Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh
While Deepavali
commemorates Lord Rama’s homecoming in the North, during this festival
Hindus in the South pay homage to Lord Krishna’s defeat of the demon
Naraka, a powerful king of Assam who controlled all the kingdoms on
earth and imprisoned thousands of people. This day was henceforth known
as NarakaChaturdashi – the first day of Deepavali and the beginning of
four days of festivities in South India.
With its rich history as
the capital of Andhra Pradesh, the oldest state in India, Hyderabad
celebrates Deepavali with much pomp and splendour. In commemoration of
the victory of good over evil, the local community makes effigies of the
infamous demon Nakara and burns them on the outskirts of the city.
Travellers to the Silicon Valley of India can expect to see lots of
lights, fireworks and traditional Hindu rituals. Better yet, why not
immerse yourself in a time-honoured South Indian Diwali celebration by
lighting some diyas yourself and sharing some traditional sweets with
the locals?
Where to stay: Get a breather from the full-day
Deepavali celebrations with the locals at the luxurious The Park
Hyderabad, a contemporary hotel boasting a façade reminiscent of the
Nizam’s legendary jewellery collection. Inspired by the Jalis of ancient
Indian palaces, this five-star hotel offers guests the opportunity to
live like royalty, if only for a night, for a truly inspired and
relaxing vacation. Rooms start from Rs. 5,286 a night on Hotels.com.
Haridwar, Uttarakhand
Deepavali, or
Diwali in North India is believed to be the time when Lord Rama, an
incarnation of the God Vishnu, defeated and killed the evil King Ravana,
returning to his home after fourteen years in exile according to the
great Hindu epic ‘Ramayana’. Lord Rama’s homecoming was celebrated with
lights, fireworks and the bursting of crackers, a tradition that is
continued to this day in many northern Indian states.
For
travellers looking to experience a traditional Diwali celebration, there
is no other place like Haridwar in Uttarakhand in northern India, home
to a fascinating bevy of sadhus (holy men), pundits (Hindu priests),
pilgrims, guides, and beggars. Considered one of the seven holiest
places in India and one of the oldest cities in the subcontinent,
Haridwar is drenched in the rich aromas of incense sticks during Diwali
as devotees make offerings to their gods. Diyas (clay lamps) and flowers
adorn the temples and the River Ganges comes to life as priests from
the temples lead the local community in a worship procession, chanting
ancient Sanskrit prayers and floating the diyas down the river in a
devotional ritual to Maa Ganga, goddess of the most holy river in India.
Where
to stay: Located near the sacred Har-ki-PauriGhat (steps leading down
to the river), which is lit up with diyas and adorned with flowers
during Diwali, the Haveli Hari Ganga provides travellers with a great
base for exploring this important pilgrimage city. The3-star hotel is
just minutes away from the popular Mansa Devi Temple and enables guests
to easily take in historical sights and immerse themselves in
traditional Diwali celebrations at the same time. Rooms start from Rs,
5,517 a night on Hotels.com.
Amritsar, Punjab
As
the spiritual home of Sikhism, the city of Amritsar in the northwestern
state of Punjab is the epicentre for the celebration of BandiChhorh
Divas, a Sikh festival that coincides with the third day of Diwali.
Known as the Day of Liberation in English, the festival celebrates the
release of Guru HargobindJi and 52 princes in 1619. The Guru’s
subsequent arrival in Amritsar several days later in the midst of Diwali
celebrations has since associated his liberation with the Festival of
Lights, and hundreds of years later, this momentous occasion is still
commemorated with thousands of candles and lamps, literally lighting up
the whole city.
Travellers will be hard pressed to find a
better-lit city than Amritsar during Diwali, in particular the Sri
Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple), a Sikh Gurdwara surrounded by a large
lake. The temple is a sight to behold during Diwali, as the entire
building is literally set aglow by the lights on and around it. Devotees
set oil lamps and candles floating in the water surrounding it and
rounding off the celebrations with a spectacular fireworks display and
endless rounds of bursting firecrackers.
Where to stay: Located
less than 100 metres the Golden Temple, the Hotel CJ International is
your best bet for a front row view of the Diwali extravaganza in
Amritsar. Other nearby points of interest include the Jallianwala Bagh
public garden, home to the memorial that commemorates the massacre of
more than 1,500 peaceful celebrators on the Punjabi New Year in 1919, as
well as the Durgiana Temple, also known as the Silver Temple for its
carved silver doors. Rooms start from Rs. 1,672 a night on Hotels.com.
Mumbai, Maharashtra
Travellers
looking for something different to the North should head to Mumbai in
the state of Maharashtra, where Diwali celebrations typically last for
four days.Comprising rituals that honour the bond between mother and
child, husbands and wives as well as brothers and sisters, Diwali
celebrations in Mumbai tend to carry a more sacred and holy aura to it
compared to the North.
Lucky enough to be in Mumbai during
Diwali? If you don’t mind the crowds, head to the colourfully decorated
markets and shops, where you can find Indian handicrafts, jewellery and
souvenirs at fabulous festival discounts. Step into a sweetshop and
sample various Indian sweets, or simply admire the houses decorated with
Rangolis – colourful designs drawn on the entrances with powder. At
night, take part in the celebrations by lighting a diya and try your
hand at bursting crackers, or simply sit back and enjoy the atmosphere
as the entire city lights up.
Where to stay: One of the most
fashionable places for Diwali celebrations in Mumbai is Marine Drive, a
3km long boulevard along the coast that’s also known as the Queen’s
Necklace for the street lamps that resemble a string of pearls at night.
Just a stone’s throw away is the Intercontinental Marine Drive Mumbai,
the perfect base that not only provides travellers respite from the
bustling city but also keeps you close to the action. Rooms start from
Rs. 10,641 per night on Hotels.com.
We reached Shimla in the evening, I had booked a hotel through the
internet in the Ridge area and during my conversation with the owner, I
was informed that they had space for parking of the Car. However, when I
reached Shimla, I found out that there were restrictions on movement of
Cars in the Mall & the ridge area. I called up the owner/manager,
who informed me that one could come to the hotel from Chotta Shimla
route via Jakhoo hill. We kept wondering from place
to place, as we could not make out the route and after a few hiccups
were finally able to reach the road late in the evening. However, the
road was narrow and no parking was available in the vicinity of the
hotel and the car had to be parked at a substantial distance from the
hotel and the poor driver had to spend two nights in the car, as he was
himself not convinced about its security. Moreover, the hotel was at a
height of almost 100 meters from the road and had to be accessed by
steep flight of stairs. I would advise the readers to avoid booking in the Ridge & mall area, in case you are traveling by your own car. Shimla derives its name from Goddess Shyamala, an incarnation of Goddess Kali, the deity of power and wrath. Perched at an altitude of 2159 m above sea level, Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh and located towards the southern parts of the state. The city is spread over a 12 km ridge with just two main roads. The Mall which runs from the far west to the lower eastern side, and the Cart Road which circles the southern part of Shimla. This is where the railway station and the bus and taxi stands are located. The crescent of the wooded Ridge stretches from the lofty 2476 m high Jakhoo Hill and Chhota Shimla in the east, to the Observatory (2,148 m) and Prospect hills (2,176 m) in the west. Shimla is surrounded by seven picturesque hills which are the prime attractions of city tours. These are:
Jakhoo hill: in central Shimla, which is crowned by the temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman;
Bantony in central Shimla, which has the Grand Hotel, but at a much lower elevation than Jakhoo hill;
Prospect Hill: Famous for the Kamna Devi temple;
Summer Hill: The Himachal Pradesh University campus is located here;
Observatory Hill: This place is known for Indian Institute of Advanced Study;
Invererarm Hill: The hill top has the State Museum and TV broadcast tower, located opposite Jakhoo hills;
Elysium Hill : It houses the Auckland House and the Longwood and reaches out towards Bharari.
Apart from these, the main attractions of Shimla are the Mall road & the Ridge, which houses the Kali Bari, Churches & Cathedrals and shopping arcades all along, while the latter presents astounding views of Shimla & around. After taking rest during the night, we started exploring Shimla & around the next day.
The first destination we touched was the Jakhoo hill, which houses the famous Jakhoo temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman and a huge sculpture of Lord Hanuman is being erected at this site and is now visible from whole of Shimla. Although there were a large number of monkeys in the temple vicinity, but we were not disturbed by any of them. Having visited the temple, we headed towards the Mall, which we accessed by ascending through the lift installed for the purpose, the charges for which are @ Rs.7/- per person for ascending and @ Rs.3/- per person for descending. We had to endure a long queue at the two stages of the lift to reach the top. However, the Mall was over-crowded and people were jostling with each other for some space. Having had our lunch and explored the Mall area, we headed out of Shimla to explore the nearby places.
Rajasthan is one of Indias brightest jewels, a vast desert province where Rajput ruled for centuries in extravagant pomp and splendor. The place of great forts and palaces that have witnessed the proud and glorious past of, Rajasthan has more than just rich historical legacy - it is land of traditional crafts, musicians and folk dances, festive village life and the distinct forms and colors of the desert. Just the perfect place to experience the life of a royalty on a luxury trip on a pre planed trip consisting of Day 1: Arrival at Delhi Warm welcome with fresh flower garlands, with your room is ready for immediate occupancy. Day 2: From Delhi to Agra After a morning at leisure we travel through Agra, home of the legendary shrine built and dedicated to love, the Taj Mahal. Day 3: Agra tour The highlight of the morning tour is visit to magnificent Taj Mahal , one of the Seven Wonders of the World and an expression of love ever created. Post lunch visit to magnificent Agra Fort, a cluster of mosques and palaces on the banks of the river. And evening you will be able to explore shops or relax at your hotel's poolside. Day 4: From Agra to Jaipur A leisurely drive To Jaipur, the Pink City known for its exquisite buildings of rose-colored terra cotta. En route we stop at Fatehpur Sikri, 16th century red sandstone city. In evening you will be enjoy the Rajasthani folk culture which comes alive as children dance rhythmically to the loud tenor of folk songs, festooned in bright clothes. Day 5: In Jaipur Tour to the legendary Amber Fort, traveling to the citadel on elephants back. Other visits include the elegant Hawa Mahal or Palace of the Winds, Maharajah's City Palace and Jantar Mantar Observatory, followed by a leisure evening at scenic Jaipur to explore on your own. Day 6: From Jaipur to Mandawa We travel to Mandawa, also known as the 'open air art gallery of Rajasthan; the region is famous for the high quality frescoes. In afternoon you will enjoy sightseeing of Mandawa. Day 7: From Mandawa to Bikaner You shall be driven to the relatively remote city of Bikaner, tucked away in the desert region of western Rajasthan. Post lunch visit to temple of rats at Deshnok rats are held sacred in this temple. Day 8: From Bikaner to Jaisalmer Visit to Junagarh Fort, sumptuously decorated with its ornately lacquered walls in red and gold and panels of dazzling colored glass inlay set over the coronation throne. On the journey to the ancient caravan city of Jaisalmer and a small ridethrough vast Thar Desert. Day 9: In Jaisalmer Explore the fort that emerges from the flat dry desert sands and enjoy a walk through the maze of narrow streets in the city with lavishly decorated havelis in yellow sandstone. In evening you will enjoy Camel ride through sand dune. Day 10: Jaisalmer to Jodhpur Travel to Jodhpur through the most interesting contours of the desert landscape, the enchanting forts, temples, other royal residences and settlements retain its medieval character and comprise the towns multifaceted attractions. Day 11: In Jodhpur Morning visit to majestic Mehrangarh Fort, which dominates and offers spectacular vistas of the bluehued city. Other visits include Jaswant Thada, white marble mausoleum built in 1899 and the excursion tour to Mandore, the ancient capital of the Pratihara Rajputs, whose most remarkable monuments are the royal cenotaphs. Day 12: Jodhpur to Kumbhalgarh to Ranakpur and finally at Udaipur Daylong drive to Udaipur begins in morning with an en route stop at the Jain temples at Ranakpur, preserved in a nearperfect condition for over 500 years. The most attractive features are the 29 halls of the temple, which have 1444 pillars of which no two are like. Next stop will be Kumbhalgarh, famous for its Fort where you will enjoy lunch and then proceed to Udaipur, there is no place in Rajasthan, which appeals more to the imagination of poets and painter, travelers and writers than Udaipur, an oasis in the desert state of Rajasthan. Day 13: In Udaipur A morning excursion at famous temple complex of Eklingji and Nagda, which enshrines the deity of the Maharanas of Mewar. Spend the rest of the day exploring charming lake city via car. In evening witness the Mewar sound & light show, a legacy of honor, which takes you on a journey through the history of Mewar through 15 centuries. Day 14: In Udaipur Wander through the opulent City Palace grounds and the museum, which are the testament the valor and chivalry of the Mewar rulers. Visit SaheliyonKi-Bari, or Garden of Friends, the Jagdish Temple on the shores of Lake Pichola and the Crystal Gallery. The breathtaking beauty of the Lakes Pichola and Fateh Sagar truly make Udaipur an oasis in the desert. Day 15 Udaipur Delhi After leisure morning, in afternoon fly back to Delhi. Evening dinner at popular Delhi restaurant followed by Indian Classical Dances program and later transfer to the airport to board your homeward flight or connect to your onward destination. Just not had enough yet extend your stay Take our extension trip to Mumbai & Aurangabad. OPTIONAL POST TOUR EXTENSION Mumbai & Aurangabad Explore Mumbai, India commercial and industrial center and the world famous rock cut temples of Ajanta and Ellora in Aurangabad. Day 15 Udaipur to Mumbai In morning fly to Mumbai and after lunch visit Elephanta Caves by motor launch (except during Monsoon) famous for to its four rocks cut temples. The most renowned of the caves sculptures is a Trimurthi, a 3 headed figure, 20ft tall, of Lord Shiva. Day 16: In Mumbai Visits to the Prince of Wales museum, The Gateway of India overlooking the harbor and the Dhobi Ghat, a unique and colorful outdoor laundry. Than drive up Malabar Hill to the lovely Hanging gardens and Kamla Nehru Park. Back in the city, visit Mani Bhawan, a small museum dedicated to the life and work of Mahatma Gandhi and end our day at bustling Crawford market. Day 17 Mumbai to Aurangabad Morning fly to Aurangabad, time at leisure till lunch. Visit the Ellora Caves where a complex of temples and monasteries has been hewn from volcanic lava rock by Buddhist, Hindu & Jain monks. Day 18: In Aurangabad Full day visit to Ajanta Caves where 24 monasteries and 5 temples embedded in rock in a horseshoe shaped gorge, contain the finest Buddhist mural art and sculpture in the world. Day 19: Aurangabad to Mumbai Fly back to Mumbai, day at leisure for personal activities. Day 20 Departure Early morning transfer to the airport to Board your homeward flight or connect to your onward destination
From royal splendour to riotous egalitarianism, 14 January is celebrated in India as Makar Sankranti heralding the transition of the sun into the Northern hemisphere. In Jaipur kites virtually blot out the sky. Everyone joins in this riotous celebration and shouts of Woh Kata Hai reverberate from rooftops to the accompaniment of drums as adversary's kites string is cut. And everyone's an adversary! Any kite in the sky is fair game! This Kite Festival is being held for the past five years. Kite makers flaunt kites sized as big as 1.5km of various shapes and designs. Some carrying messages, some depicting social issues, some as caricatures of politicians. It has been the most popular event recently with even tourists taking part in various kite flying competitions. The colours that flaunt in the blue sky mesmerize the viewers.
Jodhpur is well connected to Road, Rail and Air. Jodhpur Airport is one of the prominent airports of western India. It was primarily constructed as an Air Force base because of its important strategic location ( Jodhpur Airport played the crucial role during Indo-Pak wars in 1965, 1971). It is the most powerful air base in South Asia. To avail Flight tickets to Jodhpur, log on to beontrip.com and find cheap domestic Flight tickets at lowest rates. You can Search, Compare & Book flight tickets & get the best rates available for Jodhpur.Jodhpur is famous for its rich heritage culture, Rajasthani cuisine, Rajasthani folk dance and singing. There are many historical places to visit in Jodhpur. Tourists enjoy visiting to Palaces, Forts & Temples in Jodhpur. Attractions while Travelling to Jodhpur :- Mehrangarh fort Sardar Samand lake & palace Umaid Bhawan Palace Dhawa forest Area Veer Durgadas Smarak Kaylana Lake & Garden Jodhpur has various choices for accommodation. Tourists can find guesthouses, hotels of all categories in the city. Beontrip.com. provides you the cheap & best hotels in Jodhpur for your comfortable stay. Get best Hotel deals & packages at beontrip.com and enjoy your Travel to Jodhpur. Jodhpur is best enjoyed between Octobers to March. Being surrounded by desert, the city experiences hot dry weather in summer and very cold winter season.
India, “The land of temples” has its own unique legend telling a fascinating story about its existence. Each legend is powerful enough to revive faith even in a non-believer. Amongst such numerous legendary temples in India, the temple of Gnana Saraswati at Basar (A.P) holds a prominent place.
Basar is a village with wonderful gardens surrounded by the temple premises amidst the dry and barren patches of the north Telangana region, 30-km from Nizamabad. Basar is situated on the banks of River Godavari. It is located at a distance of about 220-km by road and 190-km by rail from Hyderabad.Basar is a village with wonderful gardens surrounded by the temple premises amidst the dry and barren patches of the north Telangana region, 30-km from Nizamabad. Basar is situated on the banks of River Godavari. It is located at a distance of about 220-km by road and 190-km by rail from Hyderabad.
The Temples
The Temples
This is an ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswathi. The temple at Basar is also the abode of Goddess Lakshmi and Kali. The current structure dates back to the Chalukya period.
This temple has no exquisite carvings like other temples. Walking ahead a few steps, one enters the sanctum sanctorum - a feeling better experienced than described. A feeling of peace, brightness and unlimited joy engulfs one. The presiding deity, 'Gnana Saraswathi Devi', is in a seated position with a 'Veena' in hand and bedecked with turmeric. Adjacent is the shrine of Goddess Maha Lakshmi and a little distance away, on the eastern side is the Maha Kali temple.
The Legend
This temple has no exquisite carvings like other temples. Walking ahead a few steps, one enters the sanctum sanctorum - a feeling better experienced than described. A feeling of peace, brightness and unlimited joy engulfs one. The presiding deity, 'Gnana Saraswathi Devi', is in a seated position with a 'Veena' in hand and bedecked with turmeric. Adjacent is the shrine of Goddess Maha Lakshmi and a little distance away, on the eastern side is the Maha Kali temple.
The Legend
Legend suggest that Maharshi Veda Vyasa, the author of Mahabharata, came to the forests of Dandakaryana to meditate. He began meditating on the banks of the River Godavari and found the place to be very peaceful. The divine mother is believed to have appeared before the sage and ordained him to build temples for the Shakti trio: Maha Saraswathi, Maha Lakshmi and Maha Kali. The sage Veda Vyasa did so by bringing three handfuls of sand and sculpts out the figures. This place was initially named after Vyasa and was called "Vyasapuri". Later on it got took names Vasara and ultimately Basara/Basar.
The Eight Pushkarnis
The Eight Pushkarnis
Some 100m from the temple there is the cave, where the devout 'Narahari Maluka' is believed to have performed rigorous penance. There is a four-sided monolith rock called "Vedavathi", which produces different sounds on each side when struck. It is said to contain jewels of Sita Devi. There are eight 'Pushkarnis' spread across the village known as 'Indra Teeratham', 'Surya Teeratham', 'Vyasa Teeratham', 'Valmiki Teeratham', 'Vishnu Teeratham', 'Ganesha Teeratham', 'Puthra Teeratham' and 'Shiva Teeratham'.
Festivals
The most important festivals celebrated are Maha Shivaratri (February-March) and Devi Navaratrulu (Septmber-October) and on both the occasions about 10,000 pilgrims visit the place from all parts of Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra.
Festivals
The most important festivals celebrated are Maha Shivaratri (February-March) and Devi Navaratrulu (Septmber-October) and on both the occasions about 10,000 pilgrims visit the place from all parts of Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra.
Now a days there is heavy rush of pilgrims coming to Basara to perform "Akshara Abhyasam" for the children. According to the legend Maharishi vyasa and his disciples and sage Suka decided to settle down in a cool and serene atmosphere after the kurukshetra war. In the quest for the peaceful abode, he came to Dandaka forest and pleased with serenity of the region selected this place. After his ablutions in the river Godavari Maharishi Vyasa used to bring three fistful of sand and place it in three small heaps and made images Sarada, Laxmi, Gowri with his mystic power and later conducted prayers. This idol made of sand has its face smeared with turmeric. Eating a little bit of this turmeric paste, it is believed, will enhance one's wisdom and knowledge. Many people, in fact, take their kids to Basara for "Akshara Abhyasam" before commencing formal school education. Special poojas and celebrations are held at the temple during Maha Sivarathri, beginning 15 days before (Vasantha Panchami) and continuing 3 days after the festival. Devi Navarathrulu is celebrated for ten days during Dasara. Since Maharishi Vyasa spent considerable time in prayers, the place was then called "Vasara" and turned into Basara due to the influence of the Marathi language in the region.
The legend has it that after the Mahabharata war, sage Veda Vyasa embarked on a pilgrimage in search of peace. He reached the serene Kumaranchala hills on the banks of river Godavari and meditated and propitiated the Goddess who eventually appeared before him and granted her presence in the form of the divine trinity.
The Goddess ordered the sage to place three handful of sand at three places everyday. Miraculously these sand dunes transformed into the idols of the divine trinity i.e., Saraswathi, Lakshmi, & Kali.
These are the presiding deities of Basar today. Despite the presence of the trinity,the temple is dedicated to Goddess Saraswathi.
Children are brought here for the ceremony of Akshara puja to start their education with the blessings of the Goddess of Knowledge.The Vedavathi Sila, the Ashtateertha are other places of interest around Basar. Thousands of devotees bath in the river Godavari & seek the blessings of the Goddess during the Mahashivarathri, Dassera navratris and Vasantha panchami.
TempleTimeings
4:00 AM TempleOpens 4:00 AM to 4:30 AM TemplePooja, Issuance of Abhishekham Tickets 4:30 AM to 7:30 AM Abhishekam, Alankarana, Harathi, Prasadam 7:30 AM to 12:00 Noon Archana and Sarva Darshan and other poojas 12:00 to 12:13 PM Nivedana and Harathi 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM Remains Closed 2:00 PM to 6:30 PM Archana and Sarva Darshan and other poojas 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM Devasthanam Pradosha Pooja 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM Maha Harathi andDarshanam 8: 30 PM Temple will be closed |
In the Medak town, is the famous Cathedral ouilt with love and crafted to perfection. As the legend goes this church was born out of a famine that struck Medak during world war Reverend Charles Walker Posnett was posted as Reverend at Medak during that time.
The Remarkable stained glass work on the huge windows of the church offers a spectacular view during the dav time, which cannot be replicated by artificial lighting. This is the most fascinating feature of the church. It serves as a picture book on the Bible to those who cannot read. Each window is made up of small bits of painted glass which has been 4'lued into a single piece and then delicately set into the stone windows.
The window to ,he north which offers a canopy to the altar is very fascinating. It depicts the scene of assertion of Jesus towering above the altar, dwarfing everything as Jesus ascends to leaven.The other two windows decorating the East and West facades depict the scene of the birth of Jesus and his crucifixion. The bells cast especially for the church can be heard from far off. The pinnacle of the church stands at 173ft.
The tiles of the church were imported from Italy & the roof has been cast to ensure best acoustics. With its immensity and beauty, this century old church stands out as one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in India.
The Adilabad district was named after the ruler of Bijapur Sultanate, Ali Adil Shah I.
History
The district was for long not a homogeneous unit and its component parts were ruled at different periods by dynasties namely, the Mauryas, Satavahanas, Vakatakas, Chalukyas of Badami, Rashtrakutas, Chalukyas of Kalyani, Mughals, Bhosle Rajes of Nagpur and Asaf Jahis, besides the Gond Rajas of Sirpur and Chanda.
Originally this was a sub-district named Sirpur-Tandur which was created in A.D. 1872 with Edlabad (Adilabad), Rajura and Sirpur as its constituent talukas. In 1905, an independent district with headquarters at Adilabad was formed.
The district is currently a part of the Red Corridor.
The district is situated on the northern boundary of Andhra Pradesh, forming a border with the Yeotmal and Chandrapur districts of Maharashtra on the north, east and western borders and Nizamabad and Karimnagar districts of Andhra Pradesh on the southern border. 19.67702°N 78.52993°E
Adilabad district occupies an area of 16,128 square kilometres (6,227 sq mi),[2] comparatively equivalent to Canada's Bathurst Island.[3] This makes it the fifth largest in Andhra Pradesh, occupying 5.90 percent of the area in Andhra Pradesh. It is however the second largest district in the Telangana of the inhabited and 167 uninhabited village and 11 towns. Forest in the district covers 44.8 percent of the total area, whereas its famous trees, teak covers 58.49 percent of the whole forest. The district has population of 2079098 which accounts for 3.13% of the total population of the State.
The Sahyadri parvat or Satnala range traverses the district from the north-west to the south-east for about 281.5 kilometers. In this range the Mahbubghat is the highest peak.
The most important river that drains the district is the River Godavari. The Penganga River, Wardha and Pranahita also drain the region. The Kadam and the Peddavagu are tributaries of the Godavari. There are also streams like Satnala, Swarnavagu, and Suddavagu which drain the district. The Godavari which is the largest river in peninsular India raises in the Western Ghats and enters this district near Basara in Mudhole Taluk. This mighty river forms the southern boundary of the district separating it from Nizamabad and Karimnagar districts. The Penganga forms part of the northern boundary of the district in Adilabad, while the Wardha and the Pranahita from the northern and eastern boundaries of the district.
The highest natural waterfall of Andhra Pradesh is situated at Kuntala (V) of Neradigonda mandal, Potchera Waterfall at Pochara(V) of Boath mandal.
ADILABAD DISTRICT, A BRIEF HISTORY.
1.Adilabad was formerly called Edulapuram. The district derived its name as Adilabad, named after Ali Adil Shah the Ruler of Bijapur that was its head quarters. Adilabad district is situated between 77. 46 and 80 of the eastern longitudes and 18.40 and 19.56 of northern latitudes .It is surrounded by Yeotmal and Chandrapur district of Maharashtra towards north, Chandrapur in the East, by Karimnagar and Nizamabad in the South and by Nanded district in the west.
ANCIENT PERIOD:
2. The district was reigned by various dynasties - viz. Mauryas, Satvahanas Vakatakas, Chalukyas of Badami, Rashrakutas, Chalukyas of Kalyani, Yadvas of Devagiri, Kakatiyas, Bahamanis, Imad - Shahis of Berar, Nizam - Shahis of Ahmednagar , Mughals, Bhonsle Rajas of Nagpur and Asaf - Jahis besides the Gond Rajas of Sirpur and Chanda (Chandrapur).
The history of Adilabad district is connected with the hoary past of the Gondvana and Berar regions (now Vidarbha). The boundries of Gondvana were the River Godavari in the South, and in the North the Central India up to the river Chambal, the Maharashtra State in the West and Agency areas in the East. Berar was probably extended over the Taluqs of Boath, Utnoor, Adilabad, Kinwat and Rajura. In the modern times, major portions of Berar and Gondavana, gradually merged into Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh states, while lower part came into erstwhile State of Hyderabad which consisted of parts of Karnataka, Marathawada and Telengana.
4. Though no direct evidence relating to history of periods of Mauryas, Sathvahanas and their successors Vatakas, Chalukyas, Rastrakutas is available, the region appears to have been under the sway of Bhoja Kings whom the epics and Kautilyas Arthashastra locate in the Deccan.
4. Though no direct evidence relating to history of periods of Mauryas, Sathvahanas and their successors Vatakas, Chalukyas, Rastrakutas is available, the region appears to have been under the sway of Bhoja Kings whom the epics and Kautilyas Arthashastra locate in the Deccan.
MEDIEVAL PERIOD:
5. The areas of Sirpur, Asifabad, Chinnur, Nirmal and Luxettipet were under the Kakatiyas. The Gond kings established their power over this district for nearly five Centuries during 1240 to 1750 A.D. The Gond chiefs who were related to the rulers of Chanda (Chandrapur) made their base in minor forts of Adilabad District, particularly in magnificently built Manikgarh fort now in Chandrapur district.
In 1323 A.D. the district was under the reign of the Sultan of Delhi Mohammed.Bin - Taughlaq who appointed Malik Maqbool as Governor of this region who administered the province from Warangal. Allauddin Hasan Bahaman Shah (1347 - 1358 A.D) the founder of Bahamani dynasty divided the kingdom into four large provinces, one of which comprising Berar and Mohore was placed under the charge of Safdar Khan Sistani. During the Bahamani rule, the fort of Mohore frequently figured to fortify the forts of Berar region, against the danger of invasions from Malawa, Khandesh etc. After his death his son Salabat Khan was appointed as Governor of Berar in 1398 A.D. The Sultan moved from Mohore to Ellichpur (Now Achalpur of Amaravati Dist - Maharashtra) and engaged the enemies in the battle.
6. Mohd.Gawan divided the Bahamani kingdom into eight provinces of moderate size. The province of Berar was quite large and extended far south till Godavari. It was divided into two provinces - Gavilgarh (now in Amaravati District) and Mohore now in Nanded district. The province of Mohore, which was included what is now in Adilabad district, remained a separate administrative unit under Bahamani for a short period. The internal dissension and quarrels among the various claimants to the Nizam Shahi throne brought about the Mughal invasion on Nizam Shahi dominions.
As per the treaty between Mughals and Nizams Shahis on 16th March 1596,possession of Berar by the Mughals was agreed in return to withdrawal from the rest of the kingdom. Thus the region round Manikgarh and strip of south territory of Penganga including Utnoor came under the Mughals. In 1687 A.D. Qutub Shahi ruler - Abul Hasan Tana Shah was defeated and his Kingdom was merged with the Mughal emperor by Aurangazeb. This resulted in the annexation of left over territory in the district.
MODERN PERIOD:
Aurangzeb handover the administration of the district along with other Subhas to the officer called Viceroy of the Deccan. The Mughal Deccan at that time consisted of 6 Subhas of which Berar was one. Taking advantage of these changes, the Gonds attempted to capture the fort of Manikgarh.
In 1724 A.D Nizam-e-Mulk defeated Mubariz Khan and took possession of the Deccan and began to rule. In 1773 Madhoji Bhonsle entered into an agreement with Nizam Ali Khan, Nizam of Hyderabad by which he agreed to cede Manikgarh (Rajura of Chandrapur) with surrounding territories south of Penganga to the Nizam, in return for the forts of Gavilgarh and Narnala of Amaravati
district - Berar.
district - Berar.
As a result of war between the British and Raghoji Bhonsale II, the latter ceded the territory of Berar to British who, in turn passed it on to Nizam under treaty and obligation for cooperation in war. Consequently Sirpur the ancient seat of Gond Rajas passed into the hands of Asaf Jahi rulers.
In 1853 A.D. a treaty was concluded between the Nizam and East India Company, according to which Nizam assigned Berar and other Districts to East India Co. in lieu of expenditure incurred on the Nizam's contingent. The people of all classes in the Nizam dominions very keenly felt the loss of Berar.
In 1860 revolt existed against The British .In Adilabad district, the Rohilas & Gonds under Ramji Gond's leadership revolted The British, which was suppressed by the then administrators at Nirmal. Komram Bhimu a tribal led the struggle against Nizam govt. organized the tribals, brought awareness among them about their rights and fought for their rights through guerilla wars in agency areas. The fight lasted till Komran Bhimu was killed in 1940. In the history of Adilabad Komram Bhimu has a unique place for spear - heading the struggle against the then Govt.In commemoration of Komram Bhimu Jathra is being held at Jodeghat and Babejhari areas on full moon day of Ashwiyuja Month Every year.
7. The freedom struggle in the district became an integral part of the Indian freedom movement. Khailafat Agitation Supported by Mahatma Gandhi in 1920 was observed. In 1930 sister Organisations / Sanghams sprang into action all over Telengana for grant of representative Govt. The agitation for a democratic form of Govt. led in 1938 A.D. The Nizam of Hyderabad agreed only after Police Action in 1948 to merge his dominion with Indian Union and thus bringing this district into the democratic country.
ADMINISTRATION:
8. Originally this was not a full-fledged district but a sub district name Sirpur - Tandur. Which was created in 1872 A.D with Edlabad (Adilabad),Rajura & Sirpur as its constituent Taluqs. In 1905 Adilabad became an independent district with head quarters at Adilabad adding Nirmal and Narsapur taluqs of Nizamabad (Indur) and Chinnur & Luxettipet taluqs from Karimnagar (Elganda) District.
In 1905 the Adilabad dist was comprised of 8 Taluqs Viz 1 Rajura 2 Adilabad 3 Sirpur 4 Jangaon 5 Luxettipet 6 Chinnur 7 Nirmal and 8 Kinwat. Jangaon was later changed as Asifabad in 1907. In subsequent decade the Taluqs were again rearranged to enable the constitution of two new taluqs - Utnoor & Boath.
By 20th Century a part of the District i.e. Boath, Utnoor, Adilabad, Rajura and Kinwat was under the rule of the Yadavas of Devgiri. The temples of Unkeshwar (now in Nanded district), Narayanaswamy at Jainad, Others Temples at Chandur and at Someshwar of Rajura Taluq, temples of Vishnu or Vithala are few remnants of the influence of Yadavas of Devgiri. Mohore fort was built or repaired by Ramadeva or Ramachandra, the Yadava ruler.
9. In 1913-14 A.D. the Head quarters of Adilabad District was shifted to Asifabad due to administrative reason, which continued till 1940-41 where after Adilabad continued to be the District Headquarters. Under the states Reorganisation Act 1956, Adilabad district lost Marathi speaking Taluqs of Rajura and Kinwat & Islapur circle of Boath taluq to Bombay -bi-lingual state, (now Maharashtra state) but gained from Mudhol Taluq of Nanded District, the three revenue circles of Mudhol, Kubeer & Bhainsa. The territorial set-up of 10 taluqs & 3 revenue divisions inclusive of an independent sub-taluq Khanapur continued for longer period.
In 1980s Khanapur sub taluq became full-fledged Taluq while Wankadi Taluq was formed out of Asifabad Taluq, Making total (11) taluqs in the district
In the Year 1985 on 25th May, the (11) taluqs with 48 revenue circles (Firkas) were reorganized and made into (52) Revenue Mandals & Mandal Parishads, with Mandal Revenue Officers & Mandal Parishad Development Officers as its heads in place of age-old Tahsildars & Block Development Officers.In the year 1987 and 1989 two revenue divisions Utnoor and Mancherial respectively were formed carving out of the existing three revenue divisions. Thereafter no territorial changes took place in the administrative set up.
GEOGRAPHICAL:The Satnala (Satpura) range traverses the District from the northwest to southeast for about 281.5 Kms. In this range the Mahboobghat is the highest peak.The most important river that surrounds or drains the district is Godavari, whereas Penganga, Wardha, Pranhita Kadam and Peddavagu are the tributories of Godavari. Satnala, Swarna and Suddavagu are the rivulets.
GEOLOGY/ ZOOLOGY: Important deposits of coal, limestone, iron-ore and cement-grade lime stone and clays are found besides several other Minerals. The district is important for fuel and timber. Nearly forests cover 40% of the land surface. The wild animals like tiger, panther, leopard, hyena, wolf, jackal, fox, sloth-beer, (Elugubunti), wild boar, Indian bison, Neelgai, deer, sambar, Zinka and spotted deer had been once rich in number now have been gradually decreased after man's rehabilitation in jungles, advent of jeep & rifle and ruthless destruction of forest.
WEATHER: The average rainfall of the district is 995 m.m., the annual rainfall of the district is 700 to 1200 m.m. The temperature of the district during May, the hottest month crosses to 46C, while in December, the coldest month it will be minimum being less than 10C.
ADILABAD MUNCIPALITY A Municipality Committee was constituted in Adilabad town in 1942-43. Under the Hyderabad Municipality and Town Committee Act 1952, Elections on adult franchise were held for the first time in 1952 when the Committee was formed with 17 elected and 7 nominated members (four non officials and three officials). It became City Municipality under the Hyderabad Dist.Municipalities Act of 1956. Subsequently elections were conducted in 1962 and 1967. Under the AP Muncipality Act 1968, the strength of council was raised to 23 with elected 20 and 3 non –officials consisting - MLA, MLC and Alderman. At present the strength of Council is 32 including 1 Chairman who is directly elected and three co-opted members.The only water supply Scheme in the District was provided (PWS) in 1939-40 for Adilabad Municipality, which was designed to serve 20,000 population @ 15 gallons per capita per day for which source of water supply has been Mavala tank located at 5 Kms. away from town. In 1980s the Adilabad water supply scheme was augmented by taking water from Sathanala river, a perennial source to meet the increasing requirement of drinking water.
Adarsha Womens Degree College, Adilabad
Chanakya Degree College, Adilabad
Deeksha Degree College, Adilabad
Gokuldas Purushothamdas Ladda (GPL) Degree College, Adilabad
Government Degree College, Nirmal, Adilabad
Government Degree College for Women, Adilabad
Government Degree College, Mancherial, Adilabad
Indira Womens Degree College, Adilabad
Karimala Degree College, Adilabad
MAM and MVN Degree College, Adilabad
MAMM Vidyaniketan Degree College, Adilabad
Manjeera Degree College, Adilabad
Nandana Degree College, Adilabad
Prerana Degree College, Adilabad
RKP Degree College, Adilabad
Sri Bhagavathi Degree College, Adilabad
Sri Harsh Degree College, Adilabad
SRS Degree College, Adilabad
Swathi Womens Degree College, Adilabad
Swetha Degree College, Adilabad
Vaagdevi Degree College, Adilabad
Vagdevi Arts & Science Degree College, Adilabad
Vasundhara Degree College, Adilabad
Vidya Bharathi Degree College, Adilabad
Vikas Degree College, Adilabad
Government Degree College, Adilabad
Government Degree College for Women, Adilabad
Government Degree College, Nirmal, Adilabad
Government Degree College, Chinnoor Dist Adilabad
Government Degree College, Bellampalli, Adilabad
Sirpur - Kaghaznagar Employee's Degree College, Sirpur Kaghaznagar, Adilabad
Chanakya Degree College, Adilabad
Deeksha Degree College, Adilabad
Gokuldas Purushothamdas Ladda (GPL) Degree College, Adilabad
Government Degree College, Nirmal, Adilabad
Government Degree College for Women, Adilabad
Government Degree College, Mancherial, Adilabad
Indira Womens Degree College, Adilabad
Karimala Degree College, Adilabad
MAM and MVN Degree College, Adilabad
MAMM Vidyaniketan Degree College, Adilabad
Manjeera Degree College, Adilabad
Nandana Degree College, Adilabad
Prerana Degree College, Adilabad
RKP Degree College, Adilabad
Sri Bhagavathi Degree College, Adilabad
Sri Harsh Degree College, Adilabad
SRS Degree College, Adilabad
Swathi Womens Degree College, Adilabad
Swetha Degree College, Adilabad
Vaagdevi Degree College, Adilabad
Vagdevi Arts & Science Degree College, Adilabad
Vasundhara Degree College, Adilabad
Vidya Bharathi Degree College, Adilabad
Vikas Degree College, Adilabad
Government Degree College, Adilabad
Government Degree College for Women, Adilabad
Government Degree College, Nirmal, Adilabad
Government Degree College, Chinnoor Dist Adilabad
Government Degree College, Bellampalli, Adilabad
Sirpur - Kaghaznagar Employee's Degree College, Sirpur Kaghaznagar, Adilabad
Gallery
-
In Treta Yuga, it is believed that Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana arrived into Telengana from Dandakaranya (present day southern Chattisgarh... -
12th Padmashali Mela @ Naren Garden, Miyapur on Sunday, Date 25-12-2011 -
In the Medak town, is the famous Cathedral ouilt with love and crafted to perfection. As the legend goes this church was born out of a... -
The Adilabad district was named after the ruler of Bijapur Sultanate , Ali Adil Shah I . History The district was for l...
Popular Post
