Dazzling drama on Kanchenjunga: Tiger Hills

It is as close to heaven as you can get. Every day, hundreds of tourists wake up at the crack of the dawn and make their way to Tiger Hills, situated 13 km away from Darjeeling. It is freezing, the sun is not up, but people still leave the cozy comfort of their hotels for an amazing experience. All eyes are directed towards the dark silhouette of Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world.

The name is derived from Kanchen and Dzonga, literally meaning five treasures of snow, that is, the five peaks. It is almost eerie, staring at something looming large in front of you with no idea of what to expect. And then, suddenly, as if by magic, the first rays of the sun strike the peak. Everyone waits with bated breath for the drama being played out between heaven and earth.

A small fraction of the peak glistens. Within minutes, the entire peak is bathed in gold. Everyone absorbs the sight and many talks animatedly about their experience and try to capture the magic on camera. The lucky ones are gleeful, while others rely on their memory for what they describe is the experience of a lifetime.

Getting There:

Darjeeling is 94 km from Bagdogra, the nearest airport. The nearest railhead is New Jalpaiguri which is well connected with rest of the country. (I took a flight to Bagdogra via Kolkatta, from airport hired a cab.)

Taj Mahal -- Love’s Labour Won

Taj Mahal is undoubtedly India’s most prized architectural marvel and one of the world’s finest. Often described as India’s ‘Jewel in the Crown’, the Taj has inspired innumerable poets, musicians and painters from across the globe for centuries. Mughal emperor Shah Jahan got this monument constructed in the memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.

The construction of the monument required the skill, expertise, and labor of 20,000 workers and artisans. Work began in 1631 and ended 22 years later. The story has it that it took a fleet of 1,000 elephants to transport the construction material, sourced from various parts of India and central Asia to the construction site.

The main edifice comprises five main elements: Darwaza or main gateway, Bageecha or garden, Masjid or mosque, Naqquar Khana or rest house, and Rauza or the mausoleum. For visitors, a trip to India is incomplete without paying a visit to the monument, which has also been included in the list of the New Seven Wonders of the World. For Generations, the Taj Mahal has been an emblem of love exquisitely portrayed in marble.

Malls and Memsahibs: Shimla

The capital of Himachal Pradesh has some the world’s finest examples of British colonial architecture. Inspired by the Renaissance in England is the greystone Viceregal Lodge on Observatory Hill. Also known as Rashtrapati Niwas, it was formerly the residence of the British Viceroy Lord Dufferin. It was also the venue for many important decisions that changed the fate of the subcontinent.

Given its history, it is quite befitting that it is the only building in Shimla that occupies a hill by itself Interestingly, the Lodge has electricity by 1888, the only place in Shimla that did in those days. After Independence, the Lodge continued as the summer retreat of the President of India.

Similar to Delhi’s Viceregal Palace, it was here that the Viceroy hosted parties and entertained Princes and nawabs. In the early Sixties, President S. Radhakrishnan, a leading Philosopher and also a writer, and then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru decided to make it a scholar’s hub where the best minds would find an ideal retreat. Today, it is appropriately occupied by the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies.

Getting There:

The nearest airport is at Jubberhatti (26 km). Shimla is connected by a broad gauge train line up to Kalka. From Kalka, the six-hour journey crosses 103 tunnels. It is considered to be the best way to enjoy the scenic beauty en route. ( I took an overnight Volvo bus from Delhi to Shimla)

French Alliance - Puducherry

 Rue Romain Rolland Dupleix… they’re in India... they’re in Puducherry.

White French villas and flowerpots in balconies complete the picture perfect look of this quaint town. An erstwhile French colony, some of the streets continue with their original names and spellings. 

Many residents still converse in French and even the local police wear a uniform that was designed the colonial rule. The French Riviera of the East has the statue of Joan of Arc and the Government Palace that are considered relics of French culture.

 No visit to Puducherry is complete without paying respect at the Aurobindo Ashram set up by Sri Aurobindo. Frequented by the spiritually inclines, the ashram stands out for its simplicity. The samadhis of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother are situated in the center of a courtyard that is covered by trees. One can almost hear the sound of the wind ringing in your ears as you spend a few moments in this place. 

Puducherry is also famed for its beaches, all lying close to the heart of the city. It’s a place where Paradise and Mahe are than the name of beaches… they stand for the essence of the city.

Grand Designs -- Mahabalipuram

Its all about fine sculptures, towering temples and silvery beaches

Renowned for its sea shore temples, Mahabalipuram is a tiny seaside village set in a boulder-strewn landscape near Chennai. Located on the Bay of Bengal, Tourists are drawn by the miles of unspoiled beaches and rock-cut art that the hamlet offers. The Sculptures here, following the Dravidian style of architecture, showcase day-to-day life, in contrast to the other temples in Tamil Nadu which generally depict gods and goddesses.

Mahabalipuram art can be divided into four categories: open air bas-relief, structured temples, man-made caves, and raths or chariots. Arjuna’s Penance and the Krishna Mandapa have been etched on massive rocks near the center of the village. The beautiful shore temples tower over the waves behind the protective breakwaters.

Panch Pandava Rathas, Krishna Mandapa, Vraha Cave and Krishna’s Butterball are the other prominent temples in Mahabalipuram. In addition to the beautiful etchings and carvings in stone, the place also offers the traveler the shade of rows of casuarinas trees and calm stretches of silvery beaches.

Pink with Pleasure

Located in Rajasthan, Jaipur, has, since time immemorial, been synonymous with royalty and good living. Glorious palaces, exquisite havelis, sprawling forts and wide gardens dot the city. Also referred to as the Pink City, most of Jaipur has been painted in pink, giving it a look that is harmonious.

For a tourist, Jaipur has plenty on offer. Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Amber Fort, Nahargarh Fort, Raigarh Fort – all resound with the tales of times gone by. Even though the city has made rapid strides to keep abreast of the contemporary, there are areas that continue to be steeped in the past.

The older part of Jaipur, where it is not uncommon to find tongas and cycle rickshaws meandering past indolent cows, camels drawing carts filled with vegetables are an intrinsic part of the city. So are the bandhej and leheriya sari shops and the jewelers dealing in kundan ornaments. Amidst all the tiny shops which look the same from outside, you will suddenly come across a glitzy showroom selling the latest watches. That’s a part of new Jaipur.

A chariot of fire @ Konark

The Sun God’s temple near Puri is designed like a rath.

When you watch Odissi danseuse Sharon Lowen performing at the Konark Dance Festival against the backdrop of the ancient Sun Temple, you marvel at her grace. But you also stare at the ornate craftsmanship of the temple. The sacred city of Konark is an important destination in the Golden Triangle circuit of Orissa. 

The temple has been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Majestic in conception, it was built by Narsimha Deva. One of the most stunning monuments in India, the entire structure has been conceived as the chariot of the Sun God.

It has 24 wheels, each about 10 ft in diameter, with a set of spokes, There are elaborate carvings and erotic sculptures primarily on the second level of the porch. The sculptures provide eloquent testimony to the genius of Orissa’s sculptural tradition.

Apart from the temple, Konark is popular for its beach. Bathe in the waters – they are relatively safe – buy some shell artefacts and spend the rest of the dat exploring the rich architecture of the temple. The annual Konark Dance Festival in the temple complex is a much awaited event.

Getting There:

The nearest airport and railheads are at Bhubaneswar and Puri.  (I went to Bhubaneswar by air from Delhi and then hired a cab).

Nesting Ground - Salt water lake rich with bio diversity

Chilika Lake near Bhubaneswar in Orissa, is Asia’s largest inland salt water lagoon, separated from Bay of Bengal by a sandy ridge. The Chilika Bird sanctuary, spread across 1,100 sq km, boasts of a unique ecosystem with species like the while-bellied sea eagles, grey legged geese, purple moorhen, herons and flamingos nesting here in the winter. 

Chilika, a hot spot of bio diversity, shelters a great number of endangered species like Irrawaddy dolphin which is a fresh water dolphin. Motor launches take you to Satapada Island for dolphin watching tours where these cetaceans can be seen playing in the clear waters.

The lake is an integral part of the people of Coastal Orissa for both religious as well as economic reasons. Pilgrims flock here in January during the Makar Mela to pay obeisance to Goddess Kalijai. The salt water of the lake encourages prawn, crab and mackerel fishing and one can see numerous small fishing boats setting sail in the mornings to get the day’s catch. Honeymoon, Breakfast, Nalabana (Island of Reeds) and Parikud are some interesting islands inside the lake.

Getting There:

Nearest Airport is Bhubaneswar. Nearest railway station is at Balugaon and Rambha. NH5 connects Bhubaneswar with Chilika. (I went to Bhubaneswar by air from Delhi and then hired a cab).

Let’s Go To Sea -- PURI

The abode of Lord Jagannath and one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage destinations, Puri has been the place where countless pilgrims take a traditional holy dip. The town is also known for the annual Rathyatra held in July every year when lakhs of pilgrims congregate to pull the magnificient raths of Lord Balabhadra, Goddess Subhadhra and Lord Jagannath. Getting to pull the rope of rath is akin to having washed away your sins.

Puri is a hot destination, both for people who are looking for spiritual solace, as well as those who want to de-stress on the beaches. Puri is one of the few places in which sunrise and sunset can be viewed from the same beach.

Although Puri attracts thousands of tourists throughout the year, the best time for a visit is July – during the Rathyatra – or early November when you can participate in the annual Puri Beach Festival and Sand Art Festival. In the evenings the beaches turn into a gourmet’s paradise when stalls selling scrumptious sea food are set up. The combination of Orissa’s craft, cuisines and culture will not fail to charm you.

Getting There:

The nearest airport is Bhubaneswar. Puri has a railway station, and is connected by trains on Southeastern Railways. It is also well connected by buses from most parts of the state.  (I went to Bhubaneswar by air from Delhi and then hired a cab).

Mist over the mountains - Kanchenjunga

Perched between Nepal in the west, Bhutan in the east and Tibet in the north, Sikkim’s pride is Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world. Formerly a Kingdom, since 1975 it has been a land locked province in India. Gangtok the capital of Sikkim, is famous for its scenic beauty and spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga. Shrouded in the heavy mist, the mighty Kanchenjunga both protects and frightens the inhabitants of the magical kingdom.

Kanchenjunga is worshiped as a deity in Sikkim. The name meaning ‘House of Five Treasures’, is represented by its five summits. Along with its natural beauty, Gangtok’s chortens and stupas mesmerize the visitor from the beginning. Monasteries, prayer wheels, red robed monks and rosary beads create a setting that is unknown to most travelers.

Wooden houses with pagoda designs, turquoise colored roofs and buzzing local markets complete the town’s look. Add to it the elegant costumes of the local people, their smiling faces, the unhurried pace of their lives and you have a place that is both unique and quaint. And if you see a proliferation of orchids anywhere, it’s only because that’s the state’s official flower.

Getting There:

The closest airport is Bagdogra and the nearest rail-head is New Jalpaiguri. Both are well connected with all the metro cities. (I took a flight to Bagdogra via Kolkatta. From airport hired a cab.)

King of my space - Ranthambhore

The park is one of the last havens for the tiger

Want to spot a tiger in the wild? Just head for Ranthambhore. Located in the midst of the Vindhyas and the Aravallis, and surrounded by parched desert land, Ranthambhore is the place to see the wild predator in its full glory. The park is named after the historic Ranthambhore fortress, which lies within the forest.

 The favourite haunt of wildlife enthusiasts and professional wildlife photographers from around the world, Ranthambhore National Park is probably the best place in the world to see the wild tigers. If you are patient, you can easily see the tiger in its surroundings.

Other residents of the park are the antelope, nilgai, sambhar and chital, which are far easier to locate. Ranthambhore has recently been in the news for its falling tiger population. But wildlife conservationist and activists have stepped up a campaign to ensure that no further damage is done.

Today, Ranthambhore is one of the few bastions where the royal animal can still be seen. We must ensure it stays that ways.

Getting there:

The nearest airport is Jaipur, located 140 km away. Sawai Madhopur, the town nearest to the park, is the most convenient railhead. It takes about 30 minutes to reach the sanctuary. The roads are in good condition (I drove down with family from Delhi).

Lonavala — Sweet Tooth Corner of Chikki

You might smack wet your lips when hear the word ‘Chikki’. Let alone the chimera of hills, dams and nature bounties, Chikki compels you to recall sugar-coated groundnuts that does wonder to your taste buds. A trip to Lonavala is never complete without stuffing bags with few kilos of Chikki — the signature dish of Lonavala. Chomping a bite of Chikki just bought from some seller is not all about the confection. Chikki, the roasted groundnut confection, is available in 30 makes and combo of different recipes across the length and breadth of Lonavala.   

As a new entrant to Lonavala shopping for Chikki need good knowledge of right places to buy from, sound acquaintance of its varieties, brands and quality. Giving into the taste and tact of Chikki sellers is easy than buying right quality from right place. A trend among visitors is to get guided by billboards and banner hanging overhead, but these are not a big help rather bombardment of advertisements for the product.

Chikki ingredients and varieties

Before you barge in some shop to lay hands on the emblematic concoction of Lonavala make sure you know all about the dish. Chikki is prepared with jaggery, sugar syrup, groundnuts and cashews (optional). However, this is a basic preparatory method and over the years there developed several varieties cooked with many more ingredients and in several tastes. Unlike jams and jellies tasting Chikki before buying is not so common here, so one will have to depend upon the word of mouth or trusted old shops known to be the masters in trade. Or, alternatively, make a choice out of preferences suchlike chana, kesar, pista, badam, coconut, rajgira, kurmura, til (linseed), dry fruits and combination of all these. Ginger, honey, mint and peanut crushes are some scrummy innovations that add to the existing choice.  Scouting Lonavala further and you are bound you come across fruity avatar of Chikki available in all new taste of strawberry, mango and chocolate. An even newer version for health freaks are the sugar-free Chikkies which are low in calorie count and prepared to serve the non-sugar customers.  

Lonavala has a whole industry that specializes in Chikki but there are specific places where you can get to taste the real Chikki in its purest form. A range of 30-40 brands makes the choice difficult but few trusted quality and tastes that can be bulk-shopped are Maganlal, National and A-1. Well, these do not set rule-of-thumb in the buying business and there are many others makers that promise you even better flavour. Some of the brands that have history of freshness and taste can be rightly purchased from National, Maganlal, Rupam, Navratna, Mahavir, Raval, Super, Vaishali, Mangal, Panchratna, Coopers, National Chikki Mart.

 Chikki that taste...

 ... crisp and not soft is said to better quality. Chikki buffs ask you to mandatorily perform a colour check for the chikki; a light brown suggests moderate use of jaggery and a darker tinge is a compromise with taste. Similarly, poor or inexpensive quality misses out dry fruit coatings or layered cake that adds to the taste of concoctions. Beware of the old stuff that smells stale an impure. The minimum price bids at Rs 80 per kg to Rs 200. Bargaining is not that big a option but taste is, so discounts are available just on bulk purchases!

Holy Break

“One of the most popular spiritual gateways, 

Haridwar is a great place to spend a tranquil weekend.”

Haridwar or ‘the Gateway to the Gods’ is one of the seven holiest places according to Hindu mythology, as the Gods are believed to have left their footprints in Haridwar. Due to its geographical location too, Haridwar stands as the gateway to the other three important pilgrimages of Uttrakhand namely, Rishikesh, Badrinath and Kedarnath. Referred to as Mayapuri, Gangadwar, and Mokshadwar in the ancient scriptures and epics, Haridwar has always remained a major pilgrimage for the Hindus.

Mythologically, drops of nectar churned out from the primordial ocean fell at the four sides of the Kumbh Mela, including Haridwar. The Kumbh mela, taking place once every 12 years and the Ardha Kumbha Mela (once every 6 years) are big draws. One of the oldest living cities, has also served as the center for learning arts, science and culture.

I spent a quite weekend in Haridwar at the 90 year old Haveli Hari Ganga. The Haveli is situataed on the banks of the river Ganga is mere 300 m walk away from the sacred Har- Ki – Pauri  Ghat.

Since we reached Haridwar in the afternoon everyone wanted to rest for a while at the Haveli and explore the ghats in the evening. Every evening at 6:30 pm, an elaborate aarti is performed at Har- Ki – Pauri  Ghat – on the banks of the river – in front of the teeming crowds. The entire area is lit up with lights. The shimmering reflection of the illumination in the water is so breath taking that you cannot tear yourself away from the sight. I sat near the river bank and watched the Ganga flowing rapidly by and thousands of devotees taking holy dips in the water.

On day 2, we planned to visit two temples, one on each side of the Ganga, on the hill tops. To get to the top of both, we had to take the Udan Khatola or the Ropeway car. The view from the ropeway was marvelous, and as we gained height, a carpet of assorted flowers could be seen below.

Our first stop was the Mansadevi Temple. One of the most revered temples of Northern India, it is a must visit after you have been to Har Ki Pauri. The other temple, dedicated to Chandadevi is on the Neelparvat hills. After paying obeisance to the goddesses, we spent time viewing the surrounding mountains from the hilltop.

Rishikesh: Spirituality, Yoga, River Rafting

Rishikesh has become the international capital of Yoga with tourists from all over the world making a beeline to this holy town.

However, Rishikesh’s real fame lies in it being the Gateway to the Uttaranchal Himalayas. Sight of Ganga rushing through the Himalayan foothills is an awesome experience. There are several temples dotting the banks of the Ganga at Rishikesh, which devotees visit in thousands each day.

Situated just 20 kms from Haridwar, Rishikesh is located 1,360 feet above sea level. Several yogis and sages are believed to have lived and practised penance here. On the other bank of the Ganga there is Tapovan, which houses a temple to Lakshman. It is believed that Lakshman carried out penances here. According to some stories, his brother Bharat also meditated here, and there is a temple devoted to Bharat here. The Swargashram and the Geeta Bhavan temples are other major attractions in Rishikesh. The scenic beauty of the area and the distant sound of bell chimes create an unforgettable experience for those who visit this pilgrimage town.

Lakshman Jhula

One of the most famous landmarks here is the Lakshman Jhula, a 450 feet long suspension bridge which was built in 1939. It is believed Lord Rama`s brother Lakshman had crossed the river on a jute rope. Visitors can enjoy the spectacular surroundings and cool breeze from the river while standing on the bridge.

A newer bridge, the Ram Jhula, has also come here. This suspended bridge was recently built between Shivanand Ashram and Sawarg Ashram. It is also known as Shivanand Jhula.

Rishikesh is also known for whitewater river rafting. The rafting stretch of the Ganga is from Kaudiyala to Rishikesh where the river has 12 rapids over 36 kms.

You can indulge in a host of activities at these camps. Other than rafting, you enjoy kayaking, forest walks, trekking, bird watching, beach volleyball, cricket or simply sunbathing.

Neelkanth

12 km away from Rishikesh is the Nilkanth Mahadeo temple, at a height of about 5,000 feet, commanding spectacular views of the region. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Myth has it that Lord Shiva had consumed the effluent poison produced after Sagar manthan which had turned his throat blue and thus this place came to be known as Neelkanth Mahadev. During the months of July and August, this place gets thousands of pilgrims.

How to Reach: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant, Dehradun, 35 kms from Haridwar, which is connected to Rishikesh by train. You can hire a bus or taxi from here to reach Rishikesh. If traveling by train, Haridwar connects Rishikesh to Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi, Lucknow, Varanasi, Dehradun and other cities of India by trains. It is better to get to Haridwar by Dehradun Shatabdi and then hire a bus or taxi to Rishikesh. If you are travelling by road take the National Highway 58 passing through Modinagar, Khatauli, Muzzafarnagar, Roorkee, Haridwar and Raiwala. Rishikesh is served by well defined road networks and is connected by buses to other towns of Garhwal, UP and Delhi, which are further connected to other major cities of India by road.

Where to Stay: Rishikesh is full of hotels and dharamshalas. Hotels are mainly low to medium budget, catering to mainly religious tourists. There is one high budget hotel, the Glass Palace, which is situated ahead of Rishikesh. Belonging to Neemrana Hotels Group, this hotel offers rich experience being situated on the banks of river Ganga. For those visiting Rishikesh for adventure sports like river rafting, there are several camps on the banks of the Ganga.

Hiking in the Sahyadris

The Western Ghats, also known in Maharashtra as the Sahyadris, run parallel to India’s west coast and stretch across the states of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Formed from volcanic rock, the hills are a maze of ridges and valleys. In Maharashtra, the many popular hill stations serve as excellent starting points for a number of scenic walking trails. The hills are well marked with the hiking routes that lead through lush forests and valleys. These hills also have a wealth of craggy rock – faces perfect for climbing and Lonavala is a favorite base of rock climbing enthusiasts. Matheran has a much trodden path known as Shivaji’s ladder, which leads from One Tree Hill down to the valley below. The Sahyadri Hills are particularly beautiful in September after the rains, when the hills are carpeted with wild flowers and cascading water falls seem to appear at every turn.

Routes

 There are several walking routes that can be carried out

• Lonavala to Matheran – A four to five day treck starting at Lonavala and going on to Rajmachi, Bhairi caves, Dhak fort, Karjat and finally Matheran.
• Kondana Caves to Lonavala – Start from Kondana Caves hike till Rajmachi Fort and then proceed to Lonavala. 

IHR Tip:

One should remember that there are some obstacles and hurdles while hiking in the Sahyadris. Be aware that there are huge bee hives on the cliff side of the Dukes Nose and an accidental disturbance could cause major bee trouble. 

There are several insects and other creatures found in the jungles of Sahyadris, large spiders, beetles, snakes etc. A creature that stands out is the black rock Scorpion. It is the largest in the species of scorpions. While walking around the hills keep an eye for them.

Brahmotsavam

The Brahmotsavam is a Hindu festival and is the most important temple festival celebrated in the holy town of Tirupati - Balaji. The festival is celebrated annually in the month of September and October depending on the moon. The festival is a nine day long event. The festival is grand every third year and is called Navratri Brahmotsavam. The entire hilltop resounds with Sanskrit mantras (sacred chants) and the music of bells, drums, cymbals, flutes, and temple horns. The perfumes of camphor, sandalwood, incense, jasmine, rose, and marigold fills the air.

It is belived that the festival was started by the Lord Brahma. He worshiped lord Balaji on the banks of the river Pushkarini in Tirupati in order to thank him for the saving the mankind. Hence the festival is named ‘Brahmotsavam’ which means Brahma’s Utsav.

 Day 1 - Pedda Seshavahana

The festival starts with the Dhwajarohana that is hoisting the Garudadhwaja (flag which has an emblem of a black eagle) near the Srivari Alaya Dhwajasthambham which is followed by a spectacular procession of Lord Venkateshwara on a chariot known as Pedda Seshavahana is taken around the four streets of the main temple. The procession is carried out at ten in the night and continues till midnight. The procession lasts for the first two days of the festival.

 Day 2 - Chinna Seshavahana

The second day of the festival starts with a huge procession in the morning. The idol of the lord is taken out on the streets but this time on Chinna Seshavahana. After the procession the lord is worshipped through out the day and in the night the deities are taken to Uyala Mandapam for the Unjal Seva (swinging).

 Day 3 – Simhavahana

The deities are carried around on the streets on Simhavahana - a vehicle which has a Lion`s emblem on it. The lion’s emblem denotes the command and authority. After the procession the deities are taken again for the Unjal Seva which is followed by an exciting ride on Mutayalapandiri Vahana in the night which is the symbol of purity.

 Day 4 - Kalpavriksha Vahana

The deities are carried out in a Kalpavriksha Vahana in the morning. The vehicle shaped like a tree which signifies that the Lord grants boons and fulfils the wishes of his devotees. Kalpavriksha is name of a tree which is belived to grant boon and fulfill all the wishes. In the night, after the Unjal Seva, the deities are carried in a Sarvabhoopala Vahana. Sarvabhoopala means `all the kings of Mother Earth`.

 Day 5 - Garuda Vahana

A majority of pilgrims visit the temple on fifth day day. In the morning the Mohini Avatarotsavam is celebrated to memorialize the Lord`s incarnation as Mohini. The Lord is dressed like Mohini and is taken out in a procession in a Pallaki (palanquin).After the Unjal Seva in the night, the Lord along with other deities are seated on Garuda Vahana.

 Day 6 - Gaja Vahana

In the morning of the sixth day, the deities of the temple are carried out on a beautifully-decorated Hanumad Vahana. Instead of the Unjal Seva, the Vasantotsavam is celebrated on the sixth day. In the night the Lord is taken out in a procession seated on a Gaja Vahana.

 Day 7 - Suryaprabha Vahana

On the seventh day, in the morning the lord is escalated on the Suryaprabha Vahana (sun chariot) whereas during the night the lord is taken out on Chandraprabha Vahana after Unjal Seva.

 Day 8 – Rathotsavam

On the eight day the Lord is taken on a procession seated on a chariot which is also known as Rathotsavam. The idols of Daruka, (the charioteer of Lord Sri Krishna) and the four horses are placed before the decorated idols of the Lord and his consorts. The devotees pull the chariot. After the Unjal Seva in the night, the deities are taken in the Aswa (horse) Vahana. It is believed that all those who witness the Rathotsavam will not be reborn.

 Day 9 - Chakrasnana Mahotsavam

On the last day the Pallaki Seva and Chakrasnana Mahotsavam is conducted in the morning whereas Dhwajavarohanam is performed in the evening. All the images that were taken out in the procession are smeared with oil, turmeric powder and other auspicious ingredients and Abhishekam is performed. Sudarsan Chakram is also given a bath in the Swami Pushkarini. The Garuda flag which was hoisted on the first day to mark the onset of the festival is lowered symbolizing the end of the nine day festival.

Konark Dance & Music festival: Divine Romance on the Rocks

The land of the world famous Sun Temple and the magnificent Chandrabhaga beach lures discerning tourists with another attraction. No points for guessing we are talking of the Konark Dance & Music festival an annual feature at the Konark temple.This great performing arts festival is all set to take place from 19-23 february 2012

The festival, a brainchild of Guru Gangadhar Pradhan provides an ideal treat for the art connoisseurs as well as a platform to the well known as well as emerging artists to showcase their talents.

For three days, danseurs, Gurus, vocalists, musicians, students, critics along with general art lovers converge here to see, listen and interact with each other. People wait with eager anticipation for the evenings to unfold when the festival’s open air stage would create a divine atmosphere.

The stage becomes a perfect setting for mesmerizing performances with stars twinkling, magnificent sculptures on the temple wall and huge trees all around.

This year the festival promises to be the right mix of music and dance recitals. In the dance section effort is made to incorporate classical, semi classical and folk dance styles. So with Bharatanatyam, Kathak and Odissi you can also look forward to Manipuri, Chhau, Gotipua and Ranapa. You can look forward to feasting on some great dance exponents from around the globe. Kathak exponent Guru Gitanjali Lal, Manipuri dancer Baisali Basu Sarkar. Odissi dancer Jyoti Rout of USA, Mayurbhanj Chhau artiste Trilochan Mohanta are all expected to perform. The dance troupes include Kathak Kendra New Delhi, Chhau troupe from Baripada, Konark Natya Mandap, Sridevi Nrityalaya from Chennai etc.

In the musical section, the luminaries include flute maestro Hariprasad Chaurasia, Odissi vocalist Dhiraj Mohapatra , Sarod exponent Abhjit Ghose.

Konark Natya Mandap the organizers of the festival made a humble beginning in the year 1986, under Guru Gangadhar Pradhan, himself an acclaimed Odissi Dance Guru and Mardal player of international faim with the idea to promote the rich traditional Orissan cultural value and a vibrant Konark. The festival is organized in collaboration with Orissa tourism Development Corporation and East Zonal Cultural Centre, Kolkata.

P.S: I am all set to be dere... R u going to join me...?