Rath Yatra - A festival celebrated in honour of Lord Jagannath

The Rath Yatra or chariot festival is celebrated in honor of Lord Jagannath who is one of the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu at Puri, Odisha. It celebrates the annual journey of Lord Jagannath with his brother Balabhadra and his sister Subhadra, as he travels from his sacred temple located in Puri to visit his aunt’s temple(Mausi Maa) located in Gundicha. The three deities are brought out of the temple in a formal and elaborate procession known as Pahandi. After the Pahandi is over, the holy chariots are swept with stately formality and ceremoniously by the Gajapati of Puri. The Rath Yatra festival is a nine-day period in which the devotees are engaged in the worship of their God and sing and dance for him.

Rath Yatra celebrated in Puri, Odisha

Three separate chariots are created with unique structures and technical design specifications. Nandighosa is the chariot of Lord Jagannath. It is a towering mammoth creation almost like a skyscraper with eighteen wheels. Taladhvaja is the chariot of Balabhadra. It is a huge artistic creation but smaller in size to that of Lord Jagannath and it contains sixteen wheels.

Devadalana is the chariot of Subhadra. It is also a towering creation but smaller than the other two and contains fourteen wheels. As per religious directions and established cultural practices, the idols and the chariots are made of wood and are refurbished after every twelve years in which new creations are established. This is called the Nabakalebara.

Rath Yatra procession

The Rath Yatra signifies a journey through life with family members. The emergence of the god from the temple is a symbol of his presence among ordinary men on earth.

It is a lesson that God is present in our hearts and minds and is manifest among us only. Thus we must respect and honor each other. The pulling of the divine chariot by congregations of devotees signifies the united force of human beings. It illustrates how the power of God can be transmitted to man and how by collective efforts man can reach God. It also instills the value of unity, plurality, and brotherhood on earth.

Lord Jagannath

Written by: Purva Bhargava Singh

Top 10 Places to Visit in Ahmadabad

Ahmedabad over the years has grown on to become one of the most popular tourist destinations for people both in India and abroad. Located in Gujarat, Ahmedabad each year attracts millions of tourists who visit this place in order to dive in a little deep into its history as well as to get hold of their contemporary lifestyle. Each and every tourist destination in Ahmedabad has a story of its own, and you would be amazed to find the importance this place holds in the pages of Indian history. So, in case you are planning a trip to Ahmedabad here are 10 places which you definitely shouldn’t miss.

1. Sabarmati Ashram

Photo by Mano Ranjan M, CC BY 2.0

If you talk about Ahmedabad, one place which definitely comes to our mind is the Sabarmati Ashram. Known by many as the home of Mahatma Gandhi, this place actually was more of his second home. It is from Sabarmati that the final movement of Indian independence started and finally it was in the year 1947 that it was won. Mahatma Gandhi spent 12 years of his life at this Ashram and each and every moment of his stay at this place has been captured in 250 photographs which are displayed in this cottage. Declared as a national monument after independence this place does also contain 35,000 books including the famous “My Life My Message” by Mahatma Gandhi.

2. Akshardham Temple

Photo by Harsh4101991, CC BY-SA 3.0

One of the most intricately carved temples all over India; the Akshardham temple each year attracts millions of devotees. This temple which has been dedicated to Swaminarayan does consist of his 10 stories tall gold statue in between sprawling green land. Being here one can also witness the water shows as well as audio-animatronic shows. You will be mesmerised as well as be amazed to see, Mystic India, a movie showcasing the journey of 11-year-old child who turns into a yogi.

3. Kankaria Lake

Photo by Arkarjun1, CC BY 3.0

Known as the largest lake in Ahmedabad, Kankaria lake is located in southern Ahmedabad. This place serves as one of the popular tourist spots in Ahmedabad as it offers plenty of entertainment for the family as well as couples. Containing water balloon rides, toy train rides as well as plenty of food stalls, it serves as a one-stop entertainment unit for everyone. And while you are at it don’t forget to see their laser light shows which are conducted in the evening after sunset. To know more about tourist places in Ahmedabad, check: http://www.transindiatravels.com/gujarat/ahmedabad/places-to-visit-in-ahmedabad/

4. Jama Masjid

Photo by Nagarjun Kandukuru, CC BY 2.0

One of the oldest mosques in the country the Jama Masjid was built back in the year 1424.This masjid is known to contain the last remains of Sultan Ahmad Shah and his family. This Sultan of Ahmedabad built this mosque for the Friday prayers of Sultans. However, now it is widely used by the common people for praying to their “Allah”. Women are not allowed inside the mosque, however, even from the outside one can witness the great craftsmanship of bygone era.

5. Lal Darwaja

The oldest market in Ahmedabad, Lal Darwaja does offer tourists their hands of the locally made items as well as fabrics. The place is generally crowded, and you will find thousands of stalls on footpaths selling items at very pocket-friendly rates. However, beware of the fraudsters and cheats as they might try to sell you cheap and low-quality items. An item in this market shouldn’t cost you more than Rs. 500-600, provided it is original.

6. Parimal Garden

Photo by Emmanuel DYAN, CC BY 2.0

Parimal Garden as the name suggests is a beautiful garden spread in the centre of the city. This place truly is a delight for nature lovers as it does contain plenty of greenery along with colourful flowers. This place truly does offer a relaxing ambience and families can visit this place during daylight for their children can also enjoy on the swings located in this garden. However, if you aren’t much fond of the daylight, then you can visit this place in the evening during which there are colourful fountains to gaze at.

7. Calico, A Museum of Textiles

Regarded as one of the finest museums for textile Calico has been designed in accordance with the traditional Gujarati architecture. Also, an institute for Indian textile industry this place boasts itself as the proud owner of some of the finest textiles in the nation. This place does contain some of the greatest handicrafts some dating five centuries back. These textiles have been collected and preserved over the years to increase awareness about such designs as well as to allow students to gain in-depth knowledge of same.

8. Thol Lake

Photo by Emmanuel DYAN, CC BY 2.0

If picturesque locations due to intrigue you, then Thol Lake is one destination which you shouldn’t miss.  About 30 km. away from the city, Thor Lake serves as one of the best destinations to spot various species of bird. According to reports, one can easily find more than 200 species of birds in and around this place with some of the common ones being Storks, Flamingos and Spoonbills. The best time to visit this place is during the month of November to February, as one can Peacefully witness varieties of birds away from the hustle of the city.

9. Hutheesing Jain Temple

Photo by Chobist, CC BY 2.0

If you are a history lover or architecture and design is something which interests you, then this Jain temple definitely should be on your To-Do List in Ahmedabad. Built by a merchant back in the 19th century this temple is carved out of marble and is dedicated to 15th Jain Tirthankara, Dharmanath. Famous for its splendid architecture this two story tall temple is visited by thousands of people and does contain separate areas for each of the 15th Tirthankara. There are so many things to do while in Ahmedabad, check: http://www.transindiatravels.com/gujarat/ahmedabad/things-to-do-in-ahmedabad/

10. Manek Chowk

Photo by Uwais, CC BY-SA 3.0

Now after all this travelling and visiting one definitely does crave some good food. So, in case you wish to taste in some delicious Gujarati food, then look no further than the Manek Chowk. A popular food street in Ahmedabad the place serves foods of all types be it Chinese, Continental or Mughlai. So, what are you waiting for head there to get some real taste of India.

So, these were the top 10 destinations you definitely ought to visit while being in Ahmedabad. There are a few other places and water parks which you can visit if you have time, however visiting these 10 will provide a good glimpse of old and new Ahmedabad.

Author Bio:

Rohit loves exploring new destinations and sectors across town. A history buff this individual wish to unravel some of the deepest facts buried deep down in the pages of Indian history. You can read more about his travel stories on http://www.transindiatravels.com/

This man stands and plays flutes all day long to make his living will make you cry

Standing business-as-usual 10 hours every day selling flutes

A flute seller Story

This man nicknamed ‘Raju’, a native of Sultanpur, 136 km South East to Lucknow comes daily to sell Flutes near Sector 54 Chowk Rapid Metro Station, Gurugram.

He comes from Sector 9 old Gurugram to Sector 54, Gurugram every day through a city bus via Golf course road. He is routine to come near Sector 54 Chowk rapid metro station daily by 11 am and his business as usual starts standing in the sunny day till 9 pm without breaks.

The man keeps playing his flute all day long to woo visitors coming to Bikanervala, The Indian grill and people working at Business Towers.

I happen to saw him many times and finally, couldn’t resist going to him, just to ask him, how he able to stand so long hours every day, irrespective of so odd days (chilly winters to hot and humid summers). It was unbelievable to listen to him when he was speaking, the guy whose flute sound can be clearly audible in 200 meters circle from where he stand was unable to speak as loud so that a person standing 2 to 3 feet away could hear him properly, his voice goes so hoarse playing flutes day long.

What if I say, he don’t even bring food along but borrows some water from the security guards of the Business tower to satisfy his thirst and keep playing his flutes all day long every day from 11 am to 9 pm.

What if I say he hardly manage to attract 8 to 12 prospective customers, playing his flute and finally able to sell just 3 to 5 flutes, after standing 10 hours a day and playing his flute all along the course of his business as usual hours.

I urge everyone reading this story, please don't bargain with these guys just pay them the price they ask for their products, trust me they hardly make enough money to save, they just earn enough to have a meal a day and continue their business as usual.

I brought one home with the first price he asked me to sell his flute.

Flute from the flute seller

Flute from the flute seller

Top 10 Best Tourist Places to Visit in Kerala

If you thought that Kerala is a hot and humid coastal state famous for mosquitoes even in winter, you’d be dead wrong. Kerala has more serene, cool hill stations and scenic backwaters that one gets to see anywhere. Kerala’s immensely blessed when it comes to natural splendor, a rich culture, fascinating traditions, and wildlife. Oh, and did we forget to mention the amazing beaches? Here are some of the best places to visit in Kerala this year.

Romantic Seaside Towns

Varkala

1.    Varkala

If you’re looking for an amazing beach surrounded by high cliffs for that perfect photo opp, head to Varkala. People come here from all over the world to worship the sun, ride boats, surf and enjoy relaxing Ayurvedic massages. Varkala is a place of pilgrimage for Hindus, who believe that the sunset here can drive away one’s sins. Don’t forget to check out some of the top Kerala attractions such as the Janardhana Temple, Kappil Lake and Sivagiri Mutt.

Kovalam

2.    Kovalam

Kovalam is an exotic, beautiful beach that’s famous for sunbathing and Ayurvedic treatments. If you’re here during December and January, do join in the traditional New Year celebrations. Enjoy a fabulous view of the whole city from the top of the lighthouse on the crescent-shaped beach, Visit the historic Vizhinjam mosque and Kovalam’s Samudra Beach and Hawah Beach. An interesting sight is the strangely shaped rock formations along the coast. Be sure to include Kovalam into your Kerala packages.

Marari

3.    Marari

Marari is known for its beaches and for its fabulous backwaters. Blessed with a long stretch of white sand bordered by exotic palm trees and surrounded by sleepy fishing villages, Marari is the best cure for a restless soul. Take a boat ride on the backwaters overnight, and watch the fishermen line their boats along the coastline for dawn fishing. Stay at one of Marari’s beach resorts and enjoy the endless golden sands and warm sunshine.

Kerala’s Lovely Backwaters

Alleppey

4.    Alleppey

Alleppey is so well known that Lord Curzon described this place as the ‘Venice of the East’. Rent a houseboat for the duration of your vacation and cruise the natural backwaters. Green paddy fields, fishermen with their nets, cute ducks, small chapels and water lilies will pass by. Enjoy a conventional Kerala meal served on plantain leaves. Don’t miss seeing the Arthunkal Church, Krishnapuram Palace, Chettikulangara Bhagawathy Temple, Pathiramanal, Marari Beach and Sri Krishna Temple in Ambalappuzha.

Kumarakom

5.    Kumarakom

Kumarakom is a sleepy little hamlet located near the picturesque Vembanad Lake, famed for its rare plants, wildlife and exotic scenery. You can go house boating, rafting, fishing, sightseeing, bird watching and kayaking on the lake and the waterways. A walk through cool coconut groves, green paddy fields and mangrove forests is a definite treat. Sail over the Vembanad Lake and watch wild duck, egrets, teal, herons, waterfowl, cuckoo, and darters along with a variety of migratory birds. Visit some of the small islands nearby for a more thorough wildlife study.

Ashtamudi

6.    Ashtamudi

The Ashtamudi Lake is the second longest lake in Kerala, stretching for 16 kilometers. Gift yourself a long backwater cruise from Ashtamudi to Alleppey. Explore the cluster of eight tiny islands named for Resident Colonel John Munro at the confluence of the Kallada River and Ashtamudi Lake. Enjoy the local crafts such as coconut husk netting, and the making of Chinese fishing nets.

Kerala’s Cool Hill Stations

Munnar

7.    Munnar

Munnar is covered with green mountain slopes full of tea farms, where low-flying clouds scud along the misty valleys. Munnar was favored by the English colonials for tea farming and for its climate. Hike around the mountains and discover streams and waterfalls. Be sure to check out the Blossom Park, Pothamedu ViewPoint, TATA Tea Museum, Attukal Waterfalls, Kundala Lake, Top Station, Mattupetty Dam, Eravikulam National Park, Marayoor Dolmens, Anamudi and the Indo Swiss Diary Farm,

Wayanad

8.    Wayanad

Wayanad is a calm, serene little place where over fifty different tribes live in harmony. Places to see will be the Banasura Sagar Dam, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Edakkal Caves, Lakkidi, Tusharagiri Waterfalls, Sentinel Rockfalls and Kalpetta. Be sure to take long treks on the hills and enjoy this blissful little hillside town. Not to miss is the heart-shaped lake you’ll find on the way to the top of the Chembara peak.

Thekkady

9.    Thekkady

Thekkady is famous for the Periyar Wildlife sanctuary in the thick evergreen Periyar Forest. Here you’ll find elephants, bison, leopards, boars, sambars, tigers, gaurs and lion-tailed macaques. Sail a boat on the Periyar Lake, and ride an elephant in the jungle. Trek through the jungles from Moozhiyar to Thekkady, and spot an elephant or two.

Vagamon

10.  Vagamon

Vagamon is a quaint little hill station located across the Idukki-Kottayam border. This place is blessed by nature; you’ll see endless green meadows, dales, tea plantations, gardens and perfect green valleys, Explore the mystic hills - Thangal Hill, Murugan Hill and Kurisumala and experience what true bliss is like.

Other not to miss place is Bekal, a beautiful hill station known for its famous giant keyhole- shaped fort and a pristine blue sea. There’s also Nelliampathy, one of India’s best hill stations, known for its amazing peacocks and natural beauty. Kozhikode is known for its historical, cultural, culinary and educational aspects. Malampuzha offers natural beauty and enthralling cultural experiences. Last but not the least; Thrissur is a cultural feast you don’t want to miss. 

The author of Post: Neha

5 Interesting Things to Do in Chennai

Chennai is one of the 4 metropolitan cities of India. It had a rich heritage and culture. Every year lots of tourists visit Chennai to enjoy the cheerful environment. Many interesting things can be done here, some of which are:

1.   Go on A Beach

Marina Beach, Photo by Vinoth Chandar, CC-BY 2.0

Chennai is famous worldwide for its beaches like marina beach which is one of the largest beaches in India and other smaller beaches like a Besant Nagar beach. These beaches are perfect for romantic walks with your hubby and friends. You will feel relaxed and it is a perfect place for the people who prefer to avoid the rush and want to stay away from the crowd. Lots of people come here for morning and evening walks which makes it a perfect place for family vacations also. You can also go for some water sports such as boating and surfing. Also, there are some beautiful lakes like Pulicat lake which attracts a large amount of tourist every year. It is a biggest saline water lake which is known as ‘Pulicat lake wildlife century’ worldwide. You can experience and explore a large amount of flora and fauna here. The lake experiences a large amount of migration of birds that make it a beautiful and perfect place for birds watching.

2.   Enjoy A Great Variety of Food

Photo by Mgn1611, CC BY-SA 4.0

Chennai is famous for delicious and spicy food that is famous worldwide for its quality. You can get many affordable and best restaurants like Savana Bhavan, Ente Keralam, and Kumarakom. The quality of food is best even if you buy it from the street vendors. They serve hot and spicy food that will make your mouth watery. Some of the food that you can enjoy are Dhosa, idli, sambhar, Biriyani and the list is endless. You can also find the high quality of sweets and snacks which are very famous in the region.

3.   Enjoy Folk Dance and Music

Photo by Arian Zwegers, CC-BY 2.0

Chennai is also famous worldwide for its rich culture and heritage such as folk dance like Bharatanatyam and different folk songs. You can find lots of Bharatanatyam dramatics shows and classical music concert going on, so you can book a ticket and enjoy the rhythmic beauty of the dance and music theater. There are thousands of auditoriums in Chennai, which hosts a lot of programs like that. Music festivals like margazhi music festivals are organized in Chennai in the duration of November to January which is considered to be the biggest musical festival in south India. You can also learn more about the Indian culture and heritage at the famous Anna centenary library by reading one of the thousands of books available there.

4.   Visit Temples

Photo by jimmyweee, CC-BY 2.0

 

Chennai is mostly famous for its temple. You can find temples like Kapileshwar temple which is thousands of years old. If you want to experience the ancient architecture, then the temples of Mahabalipuram are the perfect place to visit in Chennai. It is the historical temple made by the Pallavas dynasty. These temples are mainly associated with gods like Krishna and Shiva. Mahabalipuram is declared as a UNESCO world heritage site by the UN. During special festivals, these temples are decorated beautifully with colorful images and light which makes it more beautiful. There are dozens of other great temples. You can also visit monuments like flavor Kottam, Nungambakkam which is famous for their beauty worldwide. You can also experience the huge ‘arati’ or evening prayers in temples which are very beautiful

5.   Shopping

Photo by Ashwin Kumar, CC BY-SA 2.0

 

You can find latest shopping complexes as well as weekly bazaars such as T. Nagar Sunday evening bazaar. So, you can buy different things from there such as jewelry, latest as well as traditional clothes and many hand-crafted things such as bangles and special sarees which are famous in south India. The malls like Express avenue, Phoenix mall, Forum mall are located in different parts of the city. They are the center for the shipping as well as entertainment. Spencer plaza is one of the biggest malls in whole Asia.

Chennai is the hub of ancient culture, history, architecture, good and spicy food, dance and music lakes and beaches, temples and monuments, bazaars and malls which make it a perfect place for the tourist. In Chennai, you can do a combination of many things at one place so it’s a must place to visit.

Author Bio:

Born to travel, Rohit is an adventurer cum blogger who post his experience to the whole world. You can find his stories at TransIndiaTravels.com.

Additional 15% tax to be borne by Credit Card and Loan EMI payers wef November 2016

Are you using credit card or has taken any loan from banks, if yes then get ready to see some additional charges being levied on your credit card EMI or loan EMI w.e.f November 2016.

w.e.f November 2016 Govt. Of India has asked the banks to charge extra or additional 15% tax for the interest the bank charges on EMIs.

Now, let me explain you this in better way. Suppose you bought a product using your credit card and converted the same purchase into multiple EMIs, earlier before 1^st November 2016, credit card issuing bank used to levy some interest rate on your EMIs and you used to pay the same only along with the actual value of product price divided by the tenure for which you had taken the EMI.

Now, WEF 1^st November 2016, all the credit card issuing banks or loan lender banks has to levy another additional tax of 15% (ST 14% + SBC 0.5% + KKC 0.5%) on the interest charged on the EMI.

That is another 15% tax burden on consumer.

Additional 15% tax on credit card or loan EMIs

No prior notice or circular shared with anyone and Govt. implemented this additional burden on its citizen who voted them to power.

Waiting for your comments and also if anyone needs further clarification do comment below, will update accordingly. ⤋😞