Buddha Mahotsav-Uttar Pradesh

 Buddha is one of the many epithets of a teacher who lived in northern India sometime between the 6th and the 4th century before the Common Era.His followers, known as Buddhists, propagated the religion that is known today as Buddhism

 The title buddha was used by a number of religious groups in ancient India and had a range of meanings, but it came to be associated most strongly with the tradition of Buddhism and to mean an enlightened being, one who has awakened from the sleep of ignorance and achieved freedom from suffering.

History of Buddha Mahotsav-

The story of his enlightenment; of his renounce and sacrifices; and his transformation from Prince Siddhartha to the Buddha continues to inspire people to this day. The mighty mystic became the establisher of the religion of Buddhism - an ideology which once dominated the minds of the major section of the population of the Indian subcontinent. It is said that all the three important events in the life of Gautama Buddha – his birth, enlightenment and salvation – fall on the same day of the year. Owing to this happenstance, the day holds immense value in Buddhism. The decision to celebrate Buddha’s birth anniversary on the first full moon day of Vaisakha was taken by the World Fellowship of Buddhists in May, 1960.

Buddha Mahotsav as the name suggests the festival is commemorated to honor and celebrate Lord Buddha. The festival is celebrated in Kushinagar, which is known to be the place where Lord Buddha gained enlightenment.Celebrated to honor Lord Buddha, the festival is celebrated each year in the month of December from 29th to 31st. Lord Buddha was born on the Puranmashi (Full moon) in the month of Vaisakh in 563 BC. 

The Buddha Mahotsav is held at Kushinagar, Sarnath and Varanasi to celebrate the birthday of Lord Buddha. Buddha got enlightenment the same day he was born and on the same day is marked as the death anniversary of Gautama Buddha.

How is it Celebrated?

 
Sermons and reading of the Buddhist scriptures are another significant spiritual activities carried out by the devotees at Sarnath. They put forward fruits, flowers, candles, etc in front of the statues of the Lord Buddha according to their beliefs and customs. Decoration of the whole area at Sarnath with the earthen lamps takes place in the evening of the day.

There is also a tradition of taking dips in the holy river Ganga as it is believed this washes away sins.On this day, followers of Buddhism wear white clothes and meditate. They consume only vegetarian food. Often, people also celebrate it by preparing ‘kheer’- an Indian sweet dish, at their homes. Offerings are made to the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, and alms are also distributed to the needy and poor.

Buddha Mahotsav was first started at the Sarnath in the year 1998 by the UP tourism and Ministry of Tourism of Government of India. K. R.

The annual Buddha Purnima Mahotsav is held at Sarnath in Uttar Pradesh. 
Image credits-travelogyindia. Com

Google

Jaunpur-district in Uttar Pradesh

 Jaunpur is a city and a municipal board in Jaunpur district in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is located 228 km southeast of state capital Lucknow.

Area: 4,038 Sq. Km.

Population: 44,94,204

Male: 22,20,465

Female: 22,73,739

Language: Hindi

History -

Well-known for its past and the glory of learning Jaunpur holds its own important historical, social and political status. Studying its past on the basis of panic accounts, rock edicts, archaeological remains and other available facts, the continuous existence of Jaunpur district is seen, in some form of the other, till the Late Vedic Period. Even today, the Deva Vanees are echoing in temples along the banks of the Gomti in Jaunpur city.In the field of education, this district has held an important position. Students from other countries have been coming here to learn Arabic and Persian. Sher Shah Suri too was educated here. Sufism too sprouted and flowered here.

This area was in the domain of the king of Ayodhya at the time and is called Ayodhyapuram. Jaunpur was under the dominion of Benares and then it was in the hands of the Regiment Dekana. For the first time in 1818 A.D. the Deputy Collectorateship was established and later it became a separate district. In 1820 A.D., Azamgarh district was also brought under Jaunpur but some part of Azamgar in 1822 and the whole of Azamgarh in 1830 A.D. was separated from Jaunpur.

Famous places that attracts people from all over the world are-

1) Atala masjid-In 1408 A.D., Ibrahim Shah Sharki built the Atala Masjid . In this mosque, beautiful galleries were built by surrounding it with artistic walls. Its height is more than 100 ft. 

2) Jhanjari Masjid-This was built by Ibrahim Sharki at the time of the construction of Atala and Khalis mosques as this locality was settled-in by Ibrahim Sharki himself.It was the place of saints and pandits. Within this mosque there are extremely beautiful “jhanjhariyas” of archdes.This mosque is a very beautiful example of early architecture.

3) Masjid Lal Darwaza-This mosque has been built by V.V.Raje, wife of Sultan Mahamud Shah Sharki in 1455 A.D.Its outer area is 212 x 188 sq.ft. It has three gateways and a courtyard.

4) Sheetala mata chaukiya-Heerchand Yadav is considered the first Aheer ruler of Jaunpur. The descendants of this clan used to surname ‘Ahir’. These people built forts at Chandvak and Gopalpur.

5) Shahi Quila-Situated in the heart of the city on the left bank of the Gomti, Shahi Qila was built by Freoze Shah in 1362 A.D.Muneer Khan had got its majestic front gate built with a view to security and it was decorated with blue and yellow stones. Inside, there is a bath in the Turkish style ad a Mosque too. 

6) Jama Masjid-This mosque is quite extensive, artistic and attractive and there are 27 steps to the top. Its southern gateway is 20 ft. above ground level. 

7) Shahi pul-This famous bridge of Jaunpur was built by Munyeen Khankhana in 1564 on the orders of Akbar during his reign. This is a one of its kind bridge in India and its carriageway is at ground level. The width of the bridge is 26 ft. with 2 ft. 3 inch wide kerfs on both sides.

Kannauj-district of Uttar Pradesh

 Kannauj, also spelled Kanauj or Cannauj, historically Kanyakubja, town, central Uttar Pradesh state, northern India.The city's name is a modern form of the classical name Kanyakubja. It was also known as Mahodaya during the time of Mihira Bhoja. 

History-

The city of Kannauj had previously been ruled by emperor Harshavardhana, who died without an heir and thus created a power vacuum. This lasted for around a century before Yashovarman emerged as its ruler.Later during the Gupta period, it was the place that the famous Chinese traveller Fa Hien visited and praised. It was also the capital of King Harsha’s powerful empire.Gurjara and Pratihar dynasties which are very popular also ruled in this areas. This area has many temples and the historical significance of this town in terms of archaeology is indispensable. It has a fort and various museums which still narrate the story of the city’s glorious past.

Famous places one can visit here-

1) Archaeological museum-

Archaeological museum of Kannauj have vast variety of clayey idols which proves that at ancient time Kannauj was famous for art and culture like Mathura, Kashi and Kaushambi. 

2) Lakh Bahosi Sanctuary-Established in 1989 it is one of largest bird sanctuaries in India spread in areas of 80 sq. km. The sanctuary is a famous spot for the birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

3) Gauri Shankar Temple-

4) Annapurna Temple -

Tourists can stay in nearby hotels and have a tour of this place.... Some of the hotels that are nearby are-

1) Rudraksha Palace

2) Rahi tourists Bunglow

3) Hotel Rajdani

4) Hindustan kannauj

5) Hotel Venus

6) MY heritage hotel and banquet

How to reach-

Kannauj is very well connected to neighboring Farrukhabad, Hardoi, and Kanpur. The city has decent roadways network.

1) Reaching Kannauj By Flight

Kannauj is not well connected to other major cities of the country via regular flights. The nearest airport is in Kanpur at a distance of 79kms.

Airports: Kanpur Airport

2) Reaching Kannauj By Train

There is no regular trains to Kannauj from other major cities of the country. The nearest Railway station is at Kanpur which is located at a distance of 76kms.

Railway Station(s): Kanpur Central , Govindpuri , Panki , Kanpur Anwrganj , Kalianpur , Chandari. 

Diversity of Uttar Pradesh

 

Uttar Pradesh has the oldest seat of India’s culture and civilization, as it is around the holy river Ganga where the ancient cities and towns were found. The main attraction of India Taj is situated in Uttar Pradesh.The empire of Chandra Gupta Maurya extended nearly over the whole of Uttar Pradesh after the fall of Mauryas, Uttar Pradesh was divided into four parts: Surseva, North Panchal, Kosal, and Kaushambi.UP had the highest number of regional political parties that catered to different vote banks based on caste, religion and ideology.

Despite all the chaos in daily life, I surmise Uttar Pradesh is undoubtedly the cultural foundation of India. This state is not only the rainbow land where the multi-hued Indian culture has blossomed from times immemorial, but is also a perfect blend of two contrasting religions of Hinduism and Islam. Truly multi-ethnic, this state is laced with immigrant cultural heritage roots that lend it a unique identity in India. 

Sanctuaries covering 5,712 km2 which is 2.37% of the state’s geographical area. The fauna of UP consists of Tigers, Cats,  antelopes, Deer, Wild Boars,Elephants, Rhinos and other animals.Eight mammalian species viz the Swamp Deer, wild Dog, Bobabs Marmot, Musk Deer, Tiger, Leopard, Gangetic Dolphin and Asian Elephant are regarded as  endangered.The largest wildlife reserve in the state is Dudhwa National Park that is situated in the district of Lakhimpur Kheri. It stretches in an area of nearly 500 square kilometers. Dudhwa National Park is close to the Tarai region of Nepal and boasts of a wide fauna and flora. Tiger and Rhinos are the two animals that are worth seeing in this park.

Clothing of Uttar Pradesh:

Uttar Pradesh is mostly a state of two sects- Hindus and Muslims. The traditional dress of the women of Uttar Pradesh is a sari and a blouse or salwar kameez. The men opt for dhoti kurta or kurta pyjama. They also wear pagri or topi on their heads.

How to Reach Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh, the land of unending tourist attractions, witnesses a large number of travelers from across the globe. Uttar Pradesh can be easily accessed from different parts of the country and the world. Trains, flights, state and private roadways buses and rental cars are available across the country which makes it easier to travel to different regions .

         Best time to visit to Uttar Pradesh:

      . It is advisable to visit Varanasi and Allahabad between September and November when the monsoon rain completely cleanses the river and makes it worth taking a plunge into it.

It is best to visit Uttar Pradesh between Octobers to March inspite of the fact that the major cities remain crowded by the tourists all the year round. The summers are simply torrid and you could be the victim of the heat or sun stroke which is known as Loo in the local language. The Best Time to Visit Uttar Pradesh will also depend on the fairs and festivals that take place in the months from October to March.               

Image credits-google

12 Jyothirlinga Temples of India

 Lard Shiva is always considered to be the one who creates, saves and destroys not just the physical form but also the various illness both mental and physical that any human being has. In most parts of India, the Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of Shiva Linga.

Legend says - that once there was a fight between Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu as to who is the supreme one and to settle the debate Lord Shiva appeared as a very huge pillar of light and asked them to find the tip of his head and toe. That light later cooled down and became the holy hill of Arunachala - in Tamilnadu. 

Both Brahma and Vishnu then split themselves to the upper and the lower world to find the tip of the head and feet respectively and when Brahma returned and lied that he saw the tip of Shiva's head The story goes that the fragrant screw pine flower - Thazhampoo in Tamil was falling down from Shiva's head and when Brahma saw that he requested the flower to lie to Shiva that he took it from his head and as the flower did so, both Brahma and the flower were cursed by Lord Shiva. That the flower will not be used for Shiva's pooja any more and that Lord Brahma though the creator of the world will not have physical temples to worship.  

Jyothirlingas are the 12 Shivalinga moorthis of Lord Shiva strategically placed across the country in 12 different locations. The word Jyothi means the light. The Shiva Purana mentions 64 Jyothirlingas but amongst them 12 are more sacred and they are called Maha Jyothirlingas. 

The places where Lord Shiva appeared in the form of light are regarded as the Jyothirlinga temple sites. The primary idol in all these temples are Shivalinga representing the beginningless and the endless sthamba - the pillar which represents the infinite nature of Lord Shiva. 

The 12 Maha Jyothirlingas are located in the following places:

1. Somnath, Veeruval, Gujarat

2. Rameshwar, Rameshwaram, Tamilnadu

3. Kedarnath, Kedarnath, Uttarakhand

4. Nageshwar, Near Dwaraka, Gujarat

5. Mahakaleshwar, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh

6. Mallikarjuna, Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh

7. Omkareshwar, Khandwa, Madhyapradesh

8. Viswanath, Kasi, Uttarpradesh

9. Bhimshankar, Pune, Maharashtra

10. Triambakeshwar, Nashik, Maharashtra

11. Baidhyanath, Deoghar, Jharkhand

12. Grishneshwar, Aurangabad, Maharashtra

Though these 12 places of worship of Lord Shiva are Jyothirlinga sites, still there are no individual significant marking to give these places a special reverence. 

Gorakhpur- District in Uttar Pradesh

 Gorakhpur is a city in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, along the banks of the Rapti river in the Purvanchal region. It is situated 270 kilometres east of the state capital Lucknow. It is the administrative headquarters of Gorakhpur district, North Eastern Railway Zone and Gorakhpur division. 

Area : 3483.8 Sq. Km.

Population : 44,40,895

Male : 22,77,777

Female : 21,63,118

Village : 3448

language : Hindi, Bhojpuri

History and culture-

Gorakhpur has its own cultural and historical importance. It is the birth place of Firaq Gorakhpuri, workplace of writer Sh. Munshi Premchand and mystic poet Kabirdas.  Associated with Gautam Buddha and Lord Mahavir, Martyr Pt. Ram Prasad Bismil, Bandhu Singh and many more.History of Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India reads like a fascinating tale. Gorakhpur was a division of the celebrated kingdom of Koshal, one of the sixteen mahajanpadas of the 6th Century B.C. The first known monarch who ruled over this area was Iksvaku who founded Kshatriya, the solar dynasty. Iksvaku's capital was at Ayodhya. It produced several famous kings till the accession of Ram, considered the greatest ruler of the solar dynasty. Since then, this place remained an important part of the former empires of Maurya, Kushana, Shunga, Harsha and Gupta dynasties. Modern era was marked by the transfer of this land by the Nawab of Avadh in 1801. The East India Company gained the ruling power with this transfer. With this change of hands, Gorakhpur got its status of a District. Basti, a new district was carved out from the regions of Gorakhpur in 1865. Gorakhpur was further split up to form yet another new district of Deoria in 1946. The third splitting up of Gorakhpur held in 1989 brought the district of Mahrajganj into existence.

Festivals-

The Gorakhpur Mahotsav, is an annual cultural festival, held in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India. It is held every year in January. Since 2018, Mahotsav is organized in collaboration with the Department of Tourism (UP), Department of Culture (UP) and District Administration of Gorakhpur. Earlier editions were organized by District Administration of Gorakhpur.It includes a Children festival comprising of various academic, sports, and cultural inter school competitions of children.

Famous cuisine to try in Gorakhpur-

When searching for cuisines, the city of Gorakhpur is sure not to disappoint anyone. It has to offer delicious sweet dishes and mouth watering kebabs that are great to taste. One can come across old age Indian cuisines still now, something that is not easily found in other cities. This place is indeed a paradise for the food lovers, who can actually relish that historical touch to the dishes that they consume. 

Sweet dishes are simply unique in this region like the shahi tukra, gulab jamun and kaju barfi. Having one in the mouth will clearly explain as to how they are different from those found in other states.

Kebabs in Gorakhpur-

1) Kakori Kebab

2) Galauti Kebab

Sweets to try in Gorakhpur-

1)There is no original sweet dish that Gorakhpur people can claim as their own. But the Rabri and Jalebi they make are as delicious as it is served in other places.

Image credits-google

Vrindavan-The Land of Lord Krishna

 Vrindavan is the place where Lord Krishna was born. It is the place where Lord Krishna performed his divine activities and played tricks with the gopis (the milkmaids).The presence of Lord Krishna is something you will instantly grasp from the very moment you step foot into Vrindavan. From the walls to the gardens, to the roads, everything here feels as if it has been touched by Lord Krishna. The name 'Vrindavan' is a derivative of the term 'Vrinda', which is akin to Tulsi plant that grows profusely throughout the length and breadth of the city. Legend says that the entire surroundings were a tulsi coppice at one time. Some others believe that the term Vrindavan stands for Vrinda Devi, one among the milkmaids. Lets explore some of the places and temples to visit in this spiritual and peaceful place-

1.Prem Mandir-Radha & Krishna Sita & Ram the epitome of eternal love and unfathomed devotion! Prem Mandir Vrindavan is an ode to their celestial love, reflecting unprecedented beauty and marvel. The beautiful Prem Mandir emanates exactly what it is named as. Love or Prem, this temple is located on the outskirts of Vrindavan. The temple is a true delight for Lord Krishna’s followers, exhibiting supreme power and devotion. The magnificent abode of love is a must visit on your tour to Vrindavan.

2.Banke Bihari Mandir-Banke Bihari temple is one of the most revered temples of Vrindavan. Banke Bihari, the presiding deity, means bent in three places. The idol of Lord Krishna at this temple can be seen standing in a unique posture, justifying the naming of this temple.Swami Harida installed this idol in Nidhivan an he was also the Guru of iconic singer Tansen. It was later brought to Banke Bihari Temple.. It is believed that the idol was handed over to Swami Haridas by Lord Krishna himself!

3.ISKCON Vrindavan-The first popular temple is the ISKCON (International Society on Krishna Consciousness) Temple was built on the orders of Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the founder of ISKCON. In the open hall outside the sanctum sanatorium, a number of foreigners and Indians wearing saffron and white clothes are enjoying the high of Hare Rama Hare Krishna kirtan that goes on for 24 hours a dayopen hall outside the sanctum sanatorium, a number of foreigners and Indians wearing saffron and white clothes are enjoying the high of Hare Rama Hare Krishna kirtan that goes on for 24 hours a day.

4.Nidhivan-As the name says Nidhivan, is a block of the thick forest where Lord Krishna used to do Raas Leela with Radha and Gopis.It is believed by the devotees and people that not only Lord Krishna visits this place but also performs Ras Leela with the Gopis here every night. This is the reason why after the evening Aarti at 7pm, the doors of Nidhivan shut down for the devotees as well as priests. Even it is believed, the animals and birds that are sighted here all through the day also leave the premises in the evening. Truly, Nidhivan is one mysterious place that catches the attention of all kinds of travellers from around the world. Though, it seems impossible to learn more about this place, it is still one destination that awaits more exploration.

5.Shri Shri Krishna Balram Temple-the impressive temple of Krishna Balram ISKCON temple enveloped in a rarified air of stillness that seems to radiate off its beatific white marble structure. The main temple hall has 3 altars, each enshrining beautifully decorated deities of Gaura Nitai, Krishna Balram and Radha Shyamsundar in their most beautiful form. Do visit this temple to take a look at this beautiful place.

image credits-google

Interesting facts of Uttar pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is a land of culture, tradition, history, festival, agriculture, cuisines, and tourist spots. From ancient temples to national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, historic places, spectacular architectural marvels, massive forts, and scenic beauty, the state is rich in every sense.It has many ancient temples,Historic places, monuments,scenic beauty and also is home to one of the seven wonders of the world.Uttar Pradesh is a place of worship and sacred ghats where millions of pilgrims come to take a bath every year.Let us know some interesting facts about Uttar Pradesh.

Image credit-ohfact.com

1.Birth Place of Gods-

The Kingdom of Kosala, one of 16 Mahajanapadas was located within the modern boundary of Uttar Pradesh.Lord Rama was born here in Ayodhya.Lord Krishna was born here in Mathura,and also spent his childhood in Vrindavan here.

2.A Tree from Heaven

Parijat Tree is usually 10-15ft tall.Also known as the Coral Jasmine Tree,some people also refer to it as Kalpa Vrishk or Kalpa Taru-Wish Granting Tree.It is interesting to note that the Parijat tree blooms at night and the flowers fall on the ground by themselves, making it the only flower that can be offered to the deities after picking them from the ground.Some people are of the view that Lord Krishna brought the tree for his wives Rukmini and Satyabhama from heaven (Indraloka) to his kingdom in Dwarka.

3.First Human Settlement in this State-

The first recorded human settlement in Uttar Pradesh took place around 70 or 80 thousand years ago. They lived as hunter-gatherers and spread all across the state.

4.Most Populated State of India-

Uttar Pradesh is the most populous state in India with over 200 million population. It makes up about 16.6% population of India. If Uttar Pradesh were a country, It would be the 6th most populous country in the World. 

5.One of the largest economies in India-

It is the 4th largest economy in the country after Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka. In terms of purchasing power parity, it is the second largest economy in India after Maharashtra. Agriculture and Service sector contribute most to the state’s economy.

6.Rich Flora And Fauna-

Forests account for 12.8% of the total land of Uttar Pradesh. The forests near the Vindhya mountain range, there grows dhak, teak, mahua, salai, chironji and tendu. Uttar Pradesh is also rich in Fauna. A variety of fauna is found here including Tigers, Leopards, Sloth Bears, Stag, Wild Bears, Sambhars, Chital, Jackals, Jungle cats, Porcupines, Crocodile, Gharial, Hares, Squirrels, Monitor Lizards, Foxes, etc. The common birds include crow, dove, pigeon, black partridge, jungle fowl, house sparrow, peafowl, blue jay, parakeet, kite, Sarus crane, mynah, quail, bulbul, kingfisher, and woodpecker.

 7.State of Legendary Artists-Uttar Pradesh has been home of many legendary artists such as Naushad Ali, Begum Akhtar, Talat Mehmood, Anup Jalota, Baba Sehgal, Bismillah Khan, Shubha Mudgal, Ravi Shankar, Amitabh Bachchan, Vikash Maharaj, Kishan Maharaj, Hari Prasad Chaurasia, Gopal Shankar Misra, Siddheshwari Devi, Gopal Shankar Misra, Girija Devi, etc.

8.Worlds' Largest Gathering Takes place Here-The world's largest gathering Kumbh Mela takes place here after every 12years in Allahabad.Millions of pilgrims come here to take a holy bath in the river Ganga from all over the world. Allahabad is one of the four holy pilgrimage sites where the Kumbha Mela is organised. In 2013, Allahabad Kumbh Mela registered 12 crores or 120 million human visits which is the largest human gathering in history.

9.Unique Holi of Barsana- Holi the festival of colors is celebrated with a great deal of fervor and enthusiasm throughout the state of Uttar Pradesh. But differences mark the way in which they are celebrated. The small town of Barsana located at a distance of about 42 km from Mathura is well known for its distinctive manner of celebrating Holi. Barsana, the birth place of Radha, Lord Krishna’s beloved attracts a large number of visitors each year when it celebrates Holi.

Cuisines of Uttar Pradesh

 Divided into 65 cities, Uttar Pradesh is the largest state in India in terms of population. Home to over 204.7 million people, Uttar Pradesh is so diverse in terms of languages, attire, cultures, and food at best. It is also known as the “Heartland Of India” for its rich culture & traditions.Uttar Pradesh has something to tantalize your palate. Everything from chat, samosas, ras malai and kebabs are part of the cuisine. enormity and sheer diversity prevalent across the length and breadth of its vast territory.The main genre of Uttar Pradesh cuisine is Awadhi, and the cooking patterns of the state are similar to those of the rest of Northern India. The Awadhi cuisine of Uttar Pradesh bears similarities to those of Kashmir and Punjab.

1.Batti Chokha-Bati Chokha is one of the best dishes of eastern Uttar Pradesh. Batti is made from wheat dough and baked in a mud oven, and chokha consists of potatoes, tomatoes, and brinjal. It is served with green chutney, chaat masala, and desi ghee.

Image credit-brreakfastcare.com

2.Varanasi Ki Lassi-Varanasi Ki Lassi is the most popular Lassi all over India. It is served in Kulhads with some pistachio and cream. It is usually taken in summer to feel cool and fresh. 

3.Galouti Kebabs-This dish is a delectable minced meat kebab that is mixed with a variety of spices. The kebabs dissolve as soon as you place them inside your mouth and leave you craving more. The nawabs were known for feasting on Galawati or Galouti Kebabs which was a royal delicacy at the time.

4.Aloo Rasedaar-This is most liked breakfast choice of Uttar Pradesh people. As the name tells, the dish is the combination of crispy and spicy aloo sabzi with deep fried wheat chapattis.

5.Lucknow Biryani-nation-wide favourite, Lucknawi Biryani is prepared with cashew nut paste, saffron, curd, mace powder and star anise. Awadhi cuisine is incomplete without this star dish where the meat(mutton or chicken) is cooked on a slow fire. Biryani served at Baba’s in Swaroop Nagar is an all-time favourite of the locals.

6. Basket Chat-One of the famous foods of Uttar Pradesh, Basket Chat, is originally known for its unique serving style and making. It’s a heavenly platter for chat lovers loaded with sev, curd, coriander, and other items.

7.Banarasi Paan-Unlike other famous foods of Uttar Pradesh, Banarasi Paan is an exotic combination of areca nuts, gulkand, kattha, and many other ingredients wrapped in a fresh betel leaf.Ingredients contain gulkand, cherry, tutti fruity, and some flavored substances. Paan is of many types like chocolate paan, dry ice paan, Meetha paan, etc. The best time to eat Banarsi Paan is after a meal as it acts as a mouth sweetener.

8.Shahi Tukda-ShahiTukda is a famous sweet dish of the Oudh region. Shahi Tukda is a type of bread pudding made up of bread, milk, saffron, cashew, green cardamom, and sugar. It is a very delicious dish to eat.

Image credits-Google

Lucknow- 6 famous tourists places

 

What defines the city of Lucknow is its past that converted into a great present – which later laid foundations for the future – The NOW! The city gained prominence in the 18th century Mughal rule and flourished under the Nawabs. We are talking about a culture that has survived over the years and one that has clearly left a mark at all the places to visit in Lucknow.This large capital city nestled in the heart of the north-central state of Uttar Pradesh is a multicultural metropolis that boasts over 2.8 million residents. Sometimes referred to as the City of Nawabs because of the city’s history as the seat of power for the honorific title in the 18th and 19th centuries.As you travel to Lucknow, you will realize that the city is a true amalgamation of old traditions and modern ideas. It is world-famous for its culture and the way people deal with warmth and are courteous. The people of Lucknow have stayed true to their roots and live by the morals taught ages ago.

10 toursits places to visit in Lucknow are:

1.  Bada Imambara-Bada Imambara is one of the major attractions of Lucknow that pulls massive crowds from all over the world. The architectural brilliance of Bara Imambara aka Asfi Mosque is a living example of the best gravity-defying structures, not only in India but the entire world.Bara Imambara was designed by Kifayat-Ullah who was the relative of Ustad-Ahmad Lahori, the main architect of The Iconic Taj Mahal. As the meaning of Bara Imambara suggests, ‘Bara’ is big and ‘Imambara’ signifies a shrine, there are a lot of elements to be discovered in this huge monument of Lucknow.

2.Choto Imambara-If the Bara Imambara in Lucknow ws about the brilliance of the dark,twisted passenges of the crypt-Bhool Bhulaiya ,then visiting its younger cousin was all about a glittering jewel of the night.The actual name for Chota Imambara is Hussainabad Imambara, but most know it by its colloquial name. The complex not only consists of the Imambara, but has many other places to see as well. 

3.British Residency:Another popular spot to visit in Lucknow is the British Residency of Lucknow. The Residency, also known as the Residential Complex served as headquarters for the generals of the British East India Company.During the Indian Rebellion of 1857, when the Indians revolted against the rule of the British East India Company, the British residential complex acted as the British refugee camp till the unsettling hours came to a halt. 

4.Rumi Darwaza-Rumi Darwaza is a remarkable sixty feet tall gateway that can be witnessed in the old city of Lucknow. The monument lies exactly between the Bara Imambara and Chhota Imambara, hence can be easily spotted while you tour the other two prominent monuments of Lucknow.The actual reason behind the building of this Darwaza was for charity purposes.

5.Indira Gandhi Planatarium:The Saturn shaped building is situated at Surajkund Park and is one of the major tourist attractions in Lucknow.Indira Gandhi Planetarium building is in unique Saturn shape with its five rings. The 21 meter diameter spherical building of the planetarium rest on platform, which is especially designed to give an idea of crater formation on celestial bodies. The platform is surrounded by waterpool with fountains.

6.Husainabad Clock Tower-An interesting attraction during a sightseeing tour in the city of Lucknow, is Hussainabad Clock Tower. Located near Rumi Darwaza, Husainabad Clock Tower was erected by Hussainabad Trust in the year 1881. The construction of this architectural marvel was started by Nawab Nasir-ud-din.The dial of the clock if designed in the shape of a 12-petalled flower with bells around it. Surrounding the clock tower, are lush green gardens and from here, you can even steal glimpses of the Bada Imambara there.

Image credits-Google