The historically and archaeologically significant city of Mau produces one of the rarest types of sarees called Mau saree that derives its name from the city. Popularly called as the ‘city of weavers’, the weaving industry has been prevalent for at least 200 years if not more. The origin of the Mau saree is traced... Continue Reading →
Dahanu Gholvad Chikoo, Maharashtra
A sea of Zoroastrians seeking refuge landed on the shores of Western India sometime during the 7th century. The local ruler Jadhav Rana was a little sceptical and sent the leader a glass of milk filled to the brim with a seemingly cryptic message of “There is no place here. We are full”. The Zoroastrians... Continue Reading →
On the history trail: General Mahadji Shinde and The Battle of Wadgaon
The death of Shrimant Peshwa Madhavrao Bhat I, considered to be the architect behind the resurrection of the Marathas post the Third Battle of Panipat sent the Marathas into a huddle. The British wanted to take advantage of this turmoil by favouring Raghunathrao rather than allowing the astute Nana Phadnavis and the council of ministers... Continue Reading →
Khimeshwar Mahadev Temple, Kuchhadi Village, Porbandar, Gujarat
The quaint seaside village of Kuchhadi, located at a little distance from Porbandar has many archaeological sites of historic importance. One of the hidden gems found on this unexplored seashore is the ancient Khimeshwar Mahadev Temple. Legend has it that the Pandavas along with Draupadi spent a great deal of time in this place... Continue Reading →
Bhuragarh Fort, Banda, Banda District, Uttar Pradesh
Banda district in Bundelkhand region has carved a unique identity for itself synonymous with great wars, patriotism and rich heritage. Mighty rulers like the Chandelas of Jejakabhukti, Bundelas, Marathas and others have contributed significantly to its history, culture and tradition. One of the most picturesque forts built in this region which is the resting place... Continue Reading →
Banaras Metal Repoussé Craft, Uttar Pradesh
The ancient repoussé craft, considered to be even older than the Banarasi Silk handloom industry has flourished in the heritage city of Varanasi since the Vedic times. Traditional artisans use the repoussé technique to make faces of gods and goddesses, gold and silver dresses, traditional ornaments, doors, wall decorations in temples and unique gold and... Continue Reading →
Jalna Sweet Orange, Maharashtra
Jalna district is the largest producer of sweet oranges in Maharashtra with more than 85 percent of the geographical area under agricultural cultivation. Jalna has many agro-climatic advantages that aid the growth of this traditional variety of sweet orange. Located in the upper Godavari basin, the rich black soil along the river banks of Ambad... Continue Reading →
On the history trail: Chimaji Appa and The Battle of Vasai
It all started in 1498 when Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama reached the shores of Calicut around the Cape of Good Hope opening up a whole new sea route that would change the course of Indian history. On the pretext of expanding the Indian spice route to Europe, the Portuguese soon established their authority on... Continue Reading →
Jagannath Mandir, Behta Bujurg, Kanpur District, Uttar Pradesh
A most curious metrological temple has piqued the interest of scientists, historians and devotees for centuries. This temple has the uncanny ability to accurately forecast rainfall in the region! Villagers say that about 5 - 7 days before the onset of rains, water droplets start dripping from the monsoon patthar (monsoon stones) that have been... Continue Reading →
Devgarh Fort, Deogarh, Chhindwara District, Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh, called as kubera ka khajānā attributes this title to the unrivalled, undiscovered treasure hidden in its many splendid forts. One of the grandest forts built at the zenith of the Gond dynasty is the Deogarh or Devgarh Fort at its capital city of Deogarh. Built in the 18th century by King Jatav and perhaps... Continue Reading →
Farrukhabad Prints, Uttar Pradesh
One of the oldest and most famous industries that has flourished for more than a thousand years in Farrukhabad is the artistic cotton printing industry. India has long been considered to be a pioneer in the art of calico printing with many craftsmen across the country engaged in creating designs that are typical of their... Continue Reading →
Beed Custard Apple, Maharashtra
Beed’s most famous fruit, the deliciously sweet custard apple has been thriving in the dry Balaghat Range for more than four centuries. This organically grown fruit attributes its name to Sita Mata who used to eat this fruit during her exile. Sitaphal derives its name from the Sanskrit words śīta which means cold and phala which means fruit and custard apple... Continue Reading →
On the history trail: Battle of Umberkhind
The imposing persona of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, undisputedly the greatest, most astute strategist the world has seen is imprinted in the lush green picturesque Sahyadri mountains. He possessed all the virtues extolled by Vidura Mahātma in his treatise Vidura Neeti of a king who can oversee the three worlds and it is unsurprising that he... Continue Reading →
Dashavatara Temple, Deogarh, Lalitpur District, Uttar Pradesh
One of the most impressive edifices built by the Guptas is the Dashavatara Temple at Deogarh village in Jhansi division of Uttar Pradesh. Deogarh or Devgarh derives its name from dev which means God and garh which means fort. Though only a single temple with a square sanctum sanctorum is seen today, excavations have revealed the... Continue Reading →
