Charminar
The Charminar is a major landmark of the city of Nawabs, Hyderabad. It is known for its unique and brilliant architecture. This architectural grandeur is situated in the heart of the city and was built by Quli Qutub Shah, in 1591.
Also called "The Arc de triumph of the East", Charminar derived its name from the four elaborately carved minarets. Each of these four outstanding minarets or minars have a soaring height of 48.7m, above the ground. The Charminar is surrounded by the bustling shops of Lad Bazaar, that provides a glance into the old city. This 400 hundred years old monument holds an important place on the must visit list of any tourist coming to Hyderabad. ¤ History of Charminar
Take a trip to Hyderabad to visit Charminar,an important historical monument of Hyderabad. The monumenat was built by Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah, the founder of Hyderabad, in 1591. It is said that, this monument was built to commemorate the exit of the deadly epidemic, plaque, from Hyderabad.
Today, the Charminar has 45 prayer spaces and a mosque. The beautiful mosque is located at the western end of the open roof of the monument. The remaining part of the roof served as a court during the Qutub Shahi times.
¤ The Structure
The structure of Charminar is flat and square. Each side of the corners of the square is 20 meters in length. These sides will take you to a plaza through giant arches. Every arch of the monument is 11 meters wide and rises 20 meters high. All the minarets of the Cahrminar has four storeys and are intricately carved. The length of the majestic minarets, from the ground to the top is 48.7 meters.
The Charminar offers some exotic views of the city and the Golconda Fort. These views remind of the glorious past of Hyderabad. Thus, this magnificent monument is a synonym for Hyderabad' history.
¤ The Style of Architecture, Indo-Sarcenic
The architecture of the Charminar is an amalgamation of Cazia' and Islamic style of architecture. It was built with granite and lime-mortar. The Islamic architecture is represented by the tangled arches and domes of the monument. Apart from this, the Charminar has some enchanting floral motifs, which add to its beauty.
The Charminar, is an alive example of the Indo-Saracenic tradition, which is a blend of the Hindu and the Muslim traditions. This tradition has enhanced the vibrant Deccan culture. The mesmerizing monument looks more impressive in the night when it is illuminated.
¤ Reach Charminar
By Rail : Hyderabad has got its own railhead, which connects it to all the major cities within the state as well as in the country.
By Road : There are city buses available for tourists that can be taken from any point of the city. Rickshaw's and Taxi's are the other modes of transport to get to Charminar.
Salarjung Museum
The Salar Jung Museum is located on Musi river in Hyderabad. It is the third largest museum in India having one of the biggest one-man collections of antiques in the world. This museum was set up by Yusuf Ali Salar Jung, the prime minister of Nizam of Hyderabad. He collected objects that are now presented in the museum. The museum is open every day except Friday, from 10.00 a.m. To 5.00 p.m. This museum displays an impressive collection of European and Indian paintings.
¤ Establishment of The Museum
The outstanding Salarjung Museum set up by Mir Yusuf Ali Khan was popularly known as Salar Jung III. At the age of 23, he became the Prime Minister to Nizam in 1912, but he resigned two and a half years later. After this, he started collecting antiques and art pieces. Collection of objects wasn't his hobby, it was his passion. He spent a sizable amount of his wealth on collection. In his entire lifespan he collected art objects, rare manuscripts and paintings from all over the world. This collection was basically started by his father and grandfather.
In the year 1961, this museum was declared as the "Institution of National Importance" by an Act of Parliament. This act is known as the Salar Jung Museum Act, 1961. Earlier, it was set up in Diwan Devdi. Later, the museum was re-established at the present building in 1968, situated on the banks of the Musi.¤ A Valuable Collection
The Salar Jung museum at Hyderabad is famous for its wide collection of rare items. The museum has a wonderful collection on Indian Art, Children's Art, Middle Eastern Art, Far Eastern Art and European Art. Here, you can see sculptures, wood carvings, religious objects, manuscripts, furniture, vases, snuff boxes, utensils, archer's rings and ornaments. There are other items also like pottery, clocks, miniature paintings, portraits, silver and costumes. The museum also owns some toys, collected from countries like France, England, Switzerland, Germany, Persia, China, Japan, Burma, and Sri Lanka.
There is a vast collection of printed books on various subjects. Interested scholars can also go through a rich collection of thousands of manuscripts in Persian, Arabic and Urdu languages.
¤ The Clock Room, Highlight of The Museum
The highlight of the museum is the clock room, which is one of the best galleries here. It has a collection of more than 300 clocks. of special interest is a musical clock, sold by Cook and Kelvy of England.
¤¤ Other Attractions of The Museum
The Jade Room of the museum has some outstanding objects, belonging to the ancient Indian rulers like Aurangzeb and Tipu Sultan. The museum also has world's largest private collections of art and artifacts. The Salar Jung Museum has a huge collection of over 43000 art objects, 9000 manuscripts and 47000 printed books. Some exquisite objects of art like Chinese Porcelain, Aurangazeb's Sword, and Daggers belonging to Queen Noor Jehan, Emperor Jahangir and Shah Jahan are also on display. Apart from these, sculptures, Indian paintings and Persian carpets are also exhibited. Other highlights in the museum include the "veiled Rebecca", "Mestophiles" and "the Lady with the lamp". Thus, attracting innumerable tourists.
¤ Reach Salar Jung Museum
By Air : The Museum is situated in the capital city of andhra Pradesh. Hyderabad is well connected by air from all the important cities of the country.
By Rail : The important railway stations are Kachiguda and Nampally in Hyderabad. They are located within a distance of two miles.
By Road : Buses run frequently from all parts of the city to Afzalgunj which is within walking distance from the Museum.
By Rail : The important railway stations are Kachiguda and Nampally in Hyderabad. They are located within a distance of two miles.
By Road : Buses run frequently from all parts of the city to Afzalgunj which is within walking distance from the Museum.
Nagarjuna Sagar Dam
Location : Nagarjuna Sagar
Famous For : Tallest Masonry Dam In The World
Ideal Time To Visit : October To February
Famous For : Tallest Masonry Dam In The World
Ideal Time To Visit : October To February
¤ A Popular Picnic Spot
One of the tallest masonry dams of the world, the Nagarjuna Dam irrigates over 10 lakh acres of land in Guntur, Prakasam, Nalgonda, Khammam and Krishna districts. It is located on the borders Guntur - Nalgonda districts. The construction of the dam was completed in 1966. This mighty dam is 124m high and 1-km long. It is built across the river Krishna and has one of the largest networks of canal systems.
There is also a lake here, which is one of the largest artificial lakes. The Nagarjuna konda island emerges out of this lake.
The relic of an Buddhist settlement has been renovated on the right bank of the reservoir. On a trip to this lake, oen can see pious stupas, viharas, monasteries, a university and a sacrificial altar.
One of the tallest masonry dams of the world, the Nagarjuna Dam irrigates over 10 lakh acres of land in Guntur, Prakasam, Nalgonda, Khammam and Krishna districts. It is located on the borders Guntur - Nalgonda districts. The construction of the dam was completed in 1966. This mighty dam is 124m high and 1-km long. It is built across the river Krishna and has one of the largest networks of canal systems.
There is also a lake here, which is one of the largest artificial lakes. The Nagarjuna konda island emerges out of this lake.
The relic of an Buddhist settlement has been renovated on the right bank of the reservoir. On a trip to this lake, oen can see pious stupas, viharas, monasteries, a university and a sacrificial altar.
¤ Major Attraction Around The Dam
The Lake
The lake near the dam is the third largest artificial lake in the world. It is located 4-km away from the dam. This dam provides some exotic views of the outstandingly beautiful landscape. Here you can also see an idol of Lord Nagarjuna, placed on a tower, very near to the dam.
The lake near the dam is the third largest artificial lake in the world. It is located 4-km away from the dam. This dam provides some exotic views of the outstandingly beautiful landscape. Here you can also see an idol of Lord Nagarjuna, placed on a tower, very near to the dam.
¤ Other Attractions
Apart form the lake, there are many other attractions around the Nagarjuna Sagar like Ethipothala waterfalls, and the densely forested Srisailam Wildlife Reserve. There is also the famous Buddhist relics and an exquisite museum, located just a 20-minute ride away by a motorboat across the river Krishna. The dam offers some eye pleasing views during attracting innumerable tourists to take a trip to the dams.
¤ Reach Nagarjuna Sagar Dam
By Air : The nearest airport is at Hyderabad (150 km).Apart form the lake, there are many other attractions around the Nagarjuna Sagar like Ethipothala waterfalls, and the densely forested Srisailam Wildlife Reserve. There is also the famous Buddhist relics and an exquisite museum, located just a 20-minute ride away by a motorboat across the river Krishna. The dam offers some eye pleasing views during attracting innumerable tourists to take a trip to the dams.
¤ Reach Nagarjuna Sagar Dam
By Rail : The nearest railway station is at Macherla about 20 kms away from Nagarjuna Dam.
By Road : Regular bus services from Hyderabad , Guntur and Vijayawada are available.
Tirupati Temple
Location : 67-km from Chittoor in Chittoor district
Famous For : Architecture and Festivals
Ideal Time To Visit : October To March
¤ A Sacred Monument
Considered as the most sacred and the richest temple in the world, Tirupati temple is situated in the town of Tirupati. It is located 67-km away from Chittoor in Chittoor district of southern Andhra Pradesh. Also known as Tirupati Balaji Temple, it is a major pilgrimage center of south India. Besides, Tirupati also focous on other attraction of this place, the ancient and famous shrine of Sri Venkateswara, the Lord of Seven Hills are worth a viist.
The temple is located on a hill at Tirumala. It is a conglomeration of seven hills known as Seshachalam or Venkatachalam having an height of 853m (2,800ft.) above the sea level. The temple boasts of a vibrant and colorful culture also speaking volumes about its grand past. It is an important pilgrimage center, where devotees stand for long hours waiting to get a glance of the presiding deity.
¤ Highlight of The Temple
The temple is the most popular and most visited temples in India. Being situated on a hill of Tirumala, it is climbed up by pilgrims, which is not an easy task.
Sri Venkataswara temple or the Tirupati temple is the richest temple in India. It is said that people drop bags of diamonds at the feet of Sri Venkataswara. Devotees flock this temple in huge numbers. In fact there are two lines to enter the temple, one is a free line, where you don' t pay anything to get a view of the deity. But, for the second line, which takes less time to get a glance of the deity, you have to pay a minimum amount of Rs. 50.
¤ Temple Architecture
The ancient Tirupati temple follows the Dravidian style of architecture. The gopuram of this temple is its highlight. The 'Vimana' or Cupola, named the "the Ananda Nilayam" is placed over the sanctum sanctorum. It completely veiled with gold plate.
There are three 'Prakarams' or enclosures in the temple, among them the outermost enclosure boasts of the 'Dhvajastambha' or the banner post. Apart form these, other highlights of the temple are the statues of Vijayanagara king, Krishnadevaraya and his spouse. There is also an idol of Todarmal, the minister of Akbar.
The image of the temple deity represents both Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. Lord Vishnu is considered as the preserver whereas the Lord Shiva is considered as the destroyer in Hindu religion. ¤ A Day At Tirupati Tirumala
A day at Tirupati Tirumala temple begins with 'Suprabhatam' (awakening the Lord) as early as three in the morning. The day ends with the 'Ekanta Seva' ( putting the Lord to sleep) at around 1 O'clock in the night.
Prayers are offered daily, weekly and periodically in the form of 'Sevas' and 'Utsavams' to the Lord. Devotees who want to pay homage to the Lord can do it by giving a small amount in return of the Sevas or Utsavams done on their name. The gifts and donations offered to the deity, is known as the 'Hundi'. It is the main source of income of the Temple.
¤ Festivals
Tirupati Tirumala Balaji Temple celebrates many festivals but the annual festival of 'Brahmotsavam' is particularly important. This festival is celebrated extravagantly for nine days in the month of September every year. The Garudostavam and Rathotavam rituals take place on the fifth and sixth day of the festival. Thus, attracting flocks of tourists and devotees to the temple.
¤ Reach Tirupati Temple
By Rail : Tirupati temple is well connected by roads and proper transport services to the nearest railway station situated at Tirupati. This place is connected by rail with Hubbi, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolhapur , Mumbai, Puri, Tiruchirapalli, Varanasi and Vijayawada.
By Road : To reach Tirupati temple, one should first reach Tirupati. It is linked with important cities like Hyderabad (617), Banglore(248), Chennai(151 km), Vijayawada(380 km) and Lepakshi (379 km) through good roadways.
Golconda Fort
The Golconda Fort is located about 11 Kms away, on the Western outskirts of Hyderabad city. It is located on a granite hill having a height of 120m.
¤ History of Golconda
Before the advent of Hyderabad, Deccan was ruled from Golconda fort. It was earlier established by the Kakatiya's in the 13th century and the existing structure was constructed by the Qutub Shahi kings. It was renovated by the first three Qutub Shahi kings, over a span of 62 years.
Golconda is also known as Shepherd's Hill" or "Golla Konda", in Telugu. According to a legend, a shepherd boy found an idol on the rocky hill called 'Mangalavaram'. This news reached the Kakatiya king, who was then ruling Golconda. He ordered the construction of a mud fort around the holy spot. Later, the fort was expanded by the Qutub Shahi kings into a huge structure made of granite.¤ Attractions Within The Fort
The fort of Golconda is known for its magical acoustic system. The highest point of the fort is the 'Bala Hissar', which is located a kilometer away. The palaces, factories, water supply system and the famous 'Rahban' cannon, within the fort are some of the major attractions.
It is believed that there is a secret underground tunnel which leads from the 'Durbar Hall' and ends in one of the palaces at the foot of the hill. The fort also has the tombs of the Qutub Shahi kings. These tombs have Islamic architecture and are located about 1-km north of the outer wall of Golconda. They are encircled by beautiful gardens and numerous exquisitely carved stones.
The two individual pavilions on the outer side of Golconda are also major attractions of fort. It is built on a point which is quite rocky. The 'Kala Mandir' is also located in the fort. It can be seen from the king's durbar (king's court) which was on top of the Golconda Fort.
¤ Architectural Splendor
The wonderful acoustic system of Golconda fort speaks volumes about the architecture of the fort. This majestic structure has beautiful palaces and an ingenious water supply system. Sadly, the unique architecture of the fort is now loosing its charm.
The ventilation of the fort is absolutely fabulous having exotic designs. They were so intricately designed that cool breeze could reach the interiors of the fort, providing a respite from the heat of summer.
The Huge gates of the fort are decorated with large pointed iron spikes. These spikes prevented Elephants from damaging the fort. The fort of Golconda is encircled by a 11-km long outer wall. This was build in order to fortify the fort.
¤ The Highlight of The Fort
The highlight of the Golconda fort is a sound and light show. It depicts the glorious past of this grand fortress. This audio - visual extravaganza is presented in English, Hindi and Telugu. It is a worth watching show.
¤ Timings of The Sound and Light Show
The timings of the show are different for winters and summers. In winters, that is from the months of November to February, the show starts at 6:30 pm. In summers, that is in the months of March to October, the show starts at 7:00 pm.
The English version of the show is presented on Wednesdays and Sundays and the Hindi version is presented on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Apart form these, the Telugu version is presented on Thursdays. There is no show on Mondays. The duration of the show is about 55 minutes.
¤ Reach Golconda Fort
By Rail : Hyderabad is well connected by rail to all parts of the country.
By Road : There is a regular bus service to Hyderabad from many cities in southern, central and southeastern parts of the country.
Local Transport : Golconda Fort is around 11-km from Hyderabad. Auto rickshaws and Taxis are available apart from luxury/semi-luxury buses, for local transportation.
Kuchipudi Dance of India
¤ Kuchipudi, The Classical Dance Form
The famous dance form of Kuchipudi originated in the Kuchipudi village located in Krishna District of Andhra Pradesh. It is a dance drama tradition originally performed by men only. It is yet another precious pearl in the majestic crown of India's rich culture. The Kuchipudu dance form is famous for its grace, elegance and charm. Kuchipudi was nurtured, protected and refined by the great artists, who are responsible for its present form.
¤ Legends Related To Kuchipudi
There are many legends related to this dance form, which are somehow related to its growth. According to one of the legends related to this dance form, in the 13th century there was a young man named Siddhappa whose marriage was arranged to a beautiful girl. But the fate was not on his, while crossing the river to attend his wedding, his boat overturned and he was about to drown. At that very time, he prayed to God to save his life and pledged that he will dedicate his life to the service of God. His prayer was answered and he survived. Since then, he was called Siddhendra Yogi, a great Telugu poet of the 17th century who composed the dance-drama "Bhama Kalapam". His poems praised Lord Krishna on which dancers performed.
This dance was preformed by male dancers only, he believed that the inclusion of females might result in the decadence of this art. The first Kuchipudi dance - drama was also written by Siddhendra Yogi. Thus, it is said that today's Kuchipudi dance style has originated from this dance drama tradition, also known as Bhagavata Mela Natakam .
Another legend says that Kuchipudi is a result of the religious tolerance that existed in India, in the 13th century. It is said that a group of Kuchipudi dancers performed in the court of a Nawab in Andhra Pradesh. The Nawab was so impressed with the dance drama that he gifted the Kuchipudi village to these dancers and asked them to continue the tradition of performing. Since then, all the male members of the Kuchipudi village have been practicing this art. The themes of this dance drama are based on the legends from Indian mythology.
¤ Music In Kuchipudi
The Kuchipudi dance form is performed on the classical Carnatic music. The instruments used for Kuchipudi recital includes the Mridangam, Flute and Violin. The lyrics are sung by a vocalist and the organization of the music and recital of the rhythmic patterns are done by the "Nattuvanar".
¤ Dance Expressions
Kuchipudi is a perfect amalgamation of "Nritta", "Nritya" and "Natya". The Nritta consists of a song; the Nritya or "Sabdams" includes the interpretation of the song through dance and Natya combines both into a complete dance drama having a storyline and characters.
¤ Swift Foot Movements
The Kuchipudi dance form uses a lot of fast rhythmic foot movements. Apart from this, the graceful sculpture like body movements are the highlights of this dance form. The dance also consists of mime, hand gestures and subtle facial expression. Some times it is also combined with more graphical acting and dialogues spoken by the dancers. Keeping in mind these unique techniques, Kuchipudi is among the important Indian classical dance styles.
The "Tarangam", is another unique feature of Kuchipudi. In this, a dancer dances on the edge of a brass plate, matching to the rhythm of music. Sometimes, dancers also balance a pot of water on the head.
¤ The Presentation of The dance
Just like other dance forms of India, Kuchipudi is also associated with religion. Earlier, this dance form was only performed at temples and that too only for annual festivals of certain temples in Andhra. Kuchipudi dance drama combines the dancing and speaking of the performers. Originally, this dance form was performed only by men belonging to the Brahmin community, popularly known as "Bhagavathulu" of Kuchipudi.
In its original form Kuchipudi was a dance drama and not a solo dance. This graceful dance drama was performed by the men and boys who were trained rigorously in 'Abhinaya' or acting, music, dancing and singing, in the open air on a stage.
The presentation begins with some stage rites, which are performed in full view of the audience. After this, the "Sootradhar" or the narrator along with supporting musicians appear on-stage to give a musical performance on the drums and cymbals. Each principal character introduces himself or herself on the stage with a 'Daru', a brief composition of dance and song specially designed for each character. This helps the characters to introduce themselves and to present their skills in the art. There are nearly 80 'Darus' or dance sequences in Kuchipudi.
¤ The Evolution of Kuchipudi
Today, Kuchipudi has evolved into a solo dance form. Now, women dancers also participate in the dance performances. The solo dance performances are highly expressive with fast rhythms, swinging knee movements and circular movement of the arms. Inspite of regular modifications, Kuchipudi still retains its dramatic origins.
