Ajmer Dargah Sharif
At the foot of a barren hill, is situated India’s most important pilgrimage centre for people from all faiths, the dargah of Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti at Ajmer Sharif. It is situated 135 km from Jaipur and is renowned for fulfilling the wishes of the followers. Apart from the devout Muslims, people of other religions throng the holy dargah and pray for the fulfillment of their desires.
Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti was a Sufi saint who came to India from Persia in 1192 AD with Mohammad Ghori’s invading army and died here in 1236. Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti was the founder of Islam in India. He was one of the greatest preachers in the world. The revered prophet undertook to propagate Islam in India by the most peaceful means and with great forbearance. When Khwaja arrived, the Muslim community in India was not as large as it is now. The Khwaja, by his noble teachings, touched the hearts of everyone who came his way. The construction of the shrine was started by the Sultan of Delhi Altamash, and completed by Emperor Humayun.
The Shrine attracts thousands of pilgrims during the Urs – commemorating the death anniversary of the Saint, held from the 1st to 6th day of the Islamic month of Rajab. A famous historic ritual at the Dargah is when two massive cauldrons (capacities: 4480 kgs and 2240 kgs ) are filled with rice, dry fruits and condiments and then ‘looted’ by professionals who slide down into it. It is then sold off as sanctified food. Emperor Akbar is said to have made two pilgrimages here on foot all the way from Agra-once when an heir was finally born to him, to fulfill a vow that he had made and again when he won against Chittaur. The Shrine is believed by people of different faiths to have the power to make their prayers come true.
The entry to the Dargah is through the Buland Darwaza built by the Nizam of Hydrabad. On the right side of the courtyard is the Akbari Masjid built with white marble. It leads to the inner courtyard. The high gateway has beautifully carved silver doors. The grave of the Sufi saint is surrounded by a silver railing and is partially covered with a marble screen. The doughter of Shah Jahan had built a prayer room in the Dargah for the women devotees. The premised of the Dargah also has the tomb of Bhishti, tomb of Bili Hafiz Jama, tomb of Shah Jahan’s doughter Chimni Begum.
The Shrine attracts thousands of pilgrims during the Urs – commemorating the death anniversary of the Saint, held from the 1st to 6th day of the Islamic month of Rajab. A famous historic ritual at the Dargah is when two massive cauldrons (capacities: 4480 kgs and 2240 kgs ) are filled with rice, dry fruits and condiments and then ‘looted’ by professionals who slide down into it. It is then sold off as sanctified food. Emperor Akbar is said to have made two pilgrimages here on foot all the way from Agra-once when an heir was finally born to him, to fulfill a vow that he had made and again when he won against Chittaur. The Shrine is believed by people of different faiths to have the power to make their prayers come true.
The entry to the Dargah is through the Buland Darwaza built by the Nizam of Hydrabad. On the right side of the courtyard is the Akbari Masjid built with white marble. It leads to the inner courtyard. The high gateway has beautifully carved silver doors. The grave of the Sufi saint is surrounded by a silver railing and is partially covered with a marble screen. The doughter of Shah Jahan had built a prayer room in the Dargah for the women devotees. The premised of the Dargah also has the tomb of Bhishti, tomb of Bili Hafiz Jama, tomb of Shah Jahan’s doughter Chimni Begum.
Lakshami Narayan Mandir - New Delhi
Lakshmi-Narayan Mandir is situated at New Delhi, India. It is also known as “Birla Mandir”. This temple is dedicated to lord Vishnu, the preserver in the trimurti, and his consort Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth. It is the first of the temples built across the country by the industrialist family of Birlas. Thousand of devotees came to this temple to celebrate Janmashtami festival on Janmashtami (Birthday of God Krishna).
History of Birla Mandir
Birla Mandir is built by B.D. Birla in 1938 and inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi (Father of the Indian Nation) on the express condition that people of all castes, especially untouchables would be allowed in. therefore, a sign at the gate reiterates that people of all faiths and classes are welcome to this temple. The whole temple is decorated with relief carvings, depicting the scenes from mythology.
Information for Tourist
1) The birla mandir was built by B.D. Birla in 1938.
2) The temple was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi (Father of the Indian Nation).
3) Birla mandir is also known as Laxmi Narayan temple.
4) Birla mandir is built in orissan style.
5) Visitors can visit this temple From 7 to 12 in the Morning and 2 to 9 In Evening.
6) Other places to see – Geeta Bhawan , Buddha temple inside the premises, Gardens and Fountains Inside the Premises
7) Most important festival in birla temple is Janamashtami (Birth of Lord Krishna), Diwali (Festival of Lights), Ram Navami.
Birla Mandir is built by B.D. Birla in 1938 and inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi (Father of the Indian Nation) on the express condition that people of all castes, especially untouchables would be allowed in. therefore, a sign at the gate reiterates that people of all faiths and classes are welcome to this temple. The whole temple is decorated with relief carvings, depicting the scenes from mythology.
Information for Tourist
1) The birla mandir was built by B.D. Birla in 1938.
2) The temple was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi (Father of the Indian Nation).
3) Birla mandir is also known as Laxmi Narayan temple.
4) Birla mandir is built in orissan style.
5) Visitors can visit this temple From 7 to 12 in the Morning and 2 to 9 In Evening.
6) Other places to see – Geeta Bhawan , Buddha temple inside the premises, Gardens and Fountains Inside the Premises
7) Most important festival in birla temple is Janamashtami (Birth of Lord Krishna), Diwali (Festival of Lights), Ram Navami.
Akshardham temple
Akshardham is a Hindu temple complex which has been located near the banks of River Yamuna, Delhi. The complex was inaugurated on 6th November 2005 by the president of India, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam in the great presence of the Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and the leader of the Organization respocible for the creation of Akshardham Pramukh Swami Maharaj. This temple has already attracted thousands of visitors from all over the world. Akshardham temple is also known as “Delhi Akshardham” or “Swaminarayan Akshardham”. All the activities of the temples managed by Swaminarayan Sect. Only small female purses or male wallets allowed in the temple Cell phones and other electronic devices are not allowed. Entry to the complex is free. But for exhibitions and light and sound show inside the complex, one has to take tickets. The timing of the temple is 9 am to 9 pm on Tuesday to Sunday. The temple is close on every Monday.
Akshardham is the creation of HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Originally, the vision of Yogiji Maharaj fulfilled by his spiritual successor HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj. HDH pramukh Swami Maharaj is the spiritual leader of Swaminarayan Sanstha ( BAPS). He has created international cultural complexes like the Akshardham in Gandhi Nagar, India, The swaminarayan Mandir in Neasden London (popularly known as the Neasden Temple), Houston texas, Chicago Illinois, Atlanta, Georgia, Los Angles, Californis, Toronto, Canara, and Nairobi Africa. Even at the age of 85, HDH Pramukh swami Maharaj travels and meets people throughout the world to help those lead better lives.
Akshardham is a Hindu temple complex which has been located near the banks of River Yamuna, Delhi. The complex was inaugurated on 6th November 2005 by the president of India, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam in the great presence of the Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and the leader of the Organization respocible for the creation of Akshardham Pramukh Swami Maharaj. This temple has already attracted thousands of visitors from all over the world. Akshardham temple is also known as “Delhi Akshardham” or “Swaminarayan Akshardham”. All the activities of the temples managed by Swaminarayan Sect. Only small female purses or male wallets allowed in the temple Cell phones and other electronic devices are not allowed. Entry to the complex is free. But for exhibitions and light and sound show inside the complex, one has to take tickets. The timing of the temple is 9 am to 9 pm on Tuesday to Sunday. The temple is close on every Monday.
Akshardham is the creation of HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Originally, the vision of Yogiji Maharaj fulfilled by his spiritual successor HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj. HDH pramukh Swami Maharaj is the spiritual leader of Swaminarayan Sanstha ( BAPS). He has created international cultural complexes like the Akshardham in Gandhi Nagar, India, The swaminarayan Mandir in Neasden London (popularly known as the Neasden Temple), Houston texas, Chicago Illinois, Atlanta, Georgia, Los Angles, Californis, Toronto, Canara, and Nairobi Africa. Even at the age of 85, HDH Pramukh swami Maharaj travels and meets people throughout the world to help those lead better lives.
The Temple
The main building at the centre of the complex houses an 11ft. high and gilded image of swaminarayan, a 17th century reformer whose followers believe him to be an incarnation of God. The building itself is built of Rajasthani pink sandstone and Italian Carrara marble. At 141ft. high it is impressive presence felt from afar, and its carved details of flora, fauna, dancers, musician and Gods covering its surfaces from top to bottom, leave most visitors in awe. Akshardham Delhi is the biggest hand carved structure in the world.
The first temple at Gandhinagar
Akshardham Gandhinagar situated in the North Western state of Gujrat is first such complex in India. Akshardham delhi is the second complex. Opened amidst great fanfare in 1992, Akshardham Gandhinagar comprises of a monument to swaminarayan, exhibition halls, a vast colonnade, contemplative gardens and a restaurant, much like its sister in New Delhi. Akshardham has attracted millions of visitors from all over the world. Bill Clinton also came to this temple and he commented, “Akshardham is a unique place in India as well as whole world. It is even more beautiful than what I had imagined. Taj Mahal is definitely beautiful, but this place, along with beauty, has a beautiful message.”
Charminar - Heart of Hyderabad city
Charminar is the famous monuments situated in the city of Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, India. The meaning of Charminar is “Four Towers”. Charminar is always on the top of the mind of any tourist from world visiting Hyderabad. To imagine this 400-year-old city without Charminar is like to imagine New York without the Statue of Liberty or Moscow without the Kremlin.
History of the Charminar
The Charminar was built by Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah in 1591 in the honour of his wife Bhagmati. Actually he wanted to shift his capital from Golkunda to Hyderabad. According to one legend, it is believed that Charminar was built to honor a promise Quli Qutb Shah made to Allah.
Design and Architecture
The Charminar is a beautiful and attractive monument in the city of Hyderabad. Each side measures 20 mtr and each of the corners has a tall, pointed minaret. The height of each minaret is 48.7 m above the ground. Each side of the structure opens into a plaza through giant arches that overlook four major thoroughfares, which once upon a time were royal roads. The monument looks very beautiful on the inside and particularly known for its carvings and moldings.
The Charminar was built by Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah in 1591 in the honour of his wife Bhagmati. Actually he wanted to shift his capital from Golkunda to Hyderabad. According to one legend, it is believed that Charminar was built to honor a promise Quli Qutb Shah made to Allah.
Design and Architecture
The Charminar is a beautiful and attractive monument in the city of Hyderabad. Each side measures 20 mtr and each of the corners has a tall, pointed minaret. The height of each minaret is 48.7 m above the ground. Each side of the structure opens into a plaza through giant arches that overlook four major thoroughfares, which once upon a time were royal roads. The monument looks very beautiful on the inside and particularly known for its carvings and moldings.
Tirupati Balaji Temple
Tirupati Balaji Temple is the holiest place and one of the largest ancient shrines in the world. It is located in the Eastern Ghat in Chittoor district. This temple dedicated to the Hindu God Venkateshwara (Vishnu). The temple of Shri Venkateswara has acquired unique sanctity in Indian religious lore. It is believed that in this Kalyuga, one can attain Mukti only by worshipping Shri Vendateswara.
The ancient and sacred temple of Shri Venkateswara is located on the seventh peak, and lies on the southern banks of Shri Swami Pushkarini. It is by the Lord’s presidency over Venkatachala, that He has received the appellation, Venkateswara (Lord of the Venkata Hill). He is also called the Lord of the Seven Hills.
The ancient and sacred temple of Shri Venkateswara is located on the seventh peak, and lies on the southern banks of Shri Swami Pushkarini. It is by the Lord’s presidency over Venkatachala, that He has received the appellation, Venkateswara (Lord of the Venkata Hill). He is also called the Lord of the Seven Hills.
History of the templeThere is ample literary and epigraphic testimony to the antiquity of the temple of Lord Shri Venkateswara. All the great dynasties of rulers of the southern peninsula have paid homage to Lord Shri Venkateswara in this ancient shrine. The Pallavas of Kancheepuram (9th century AD), the Cholas of Thanjavur (a century later), the Pandyas of Madurai, and the kings and chieftains of Vijayanagar (14th-15th century AD) were devotees of the Lord and they completed with one another in endowing the temple with rich offerings and contributions. It was during the rule of the Vijaranagar dynasty that the contributions to the temple increased. Shri Krishnadeva Raya had statues of him and his consorts installed at the portals of the temple, and these statues can be seen to this day. There is also a statue of Venkatapati Raya in the main temple.
Pilgrimage at Tirupati
1) Padi Kavali Maha Dwara
2) Sampangi Pradakshinam
3) Ranga Madapam
4) Tirumala Raya Mandapam
5) Tirumala Raya Mandapam
6) The Aina Mahal
Pilgrimage at Tirupati
1) Padi Kavali Maha Dwara
2) Sampangi Pradakshinam
3) Ranga Madapam
4) Tirumala Raya Mandapam
5) Tirumala Raya Mandapam
6) The Aina Mahal
Jama Masjid - Largest mosque in India
Jama Masjid of Delhi is the principal mosque of India. It is also known as masjid-i-jahan Numa, ‘Jahan’ means ‘world’ and ‘Numa’ means ‘Visible’. This mosque is constructed by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and completed in the year 1656 AD. It is the largest and best-known mosque in India as well as Asia. It is situated in Old Delhi, just opposite to the famous Red fort or Lal Quila. There is also Jama Masjid in many other cities with a history of Islamic rule, or large Muslim populations.
Masjid-i-jahan Numa means “the mosque commanding a view of the world”. The name jama Masjid is a reference to the weekly congregation observed on Friday (the yaum al-juma) at the mosque. The courtyard of the mosque is so long that can hold up to twenty–five thousand worshippers at a time. The mosque also houses several relics in a closet in the north, gate including a copy of the Quran (holy book of muslims) written on deer’s skin. About 5000 craftsmen were involved in the construction of the mosque. Cost incurred on the construction in those times was 10 lakh Rupees.
Shah Jahan built several important mosques in Delhi, Agra, Ajmer and Lahore. The Jama Masjid’s floor plan is very similar to the Moti Masjid at Agra, but the Jama Masjid is the bigger and more imposing of the two. Its majesty is further enhanced because of the hight ground that he selected for building this mosque. The mosque has three gates. It faces west and three sides covered with open arched colonnades. Each colonnades having a lofty tower like gateway in the centre. The mosque is about 261 feet long and 90 feet wide. Its roof is covered with three domes with alternate stripes of black and white marble. Most part of the dome is covered with gold.
Shah Jahan built several important mosques in Delhi, Agra, Ajmer and Lahore. The Jama Masjid’s floor plan is very similar to the Moti Masjid at Agra, but the Jama Masjid is the bigger and more imposing of the two. Its majesty is further enhanced because of the hight ground that he selected for building this mosque. The mosque has three gates. It faces west and three sides covered with open arched colonnades. Each colonnades having a lofty tower like gateway in the centre. The mosque is about 261 feet long and 90 feet wide. Its roof is covered with three domes with alternate stripes of black and white marble. Most part of the dome is covered with gold.
Information for Tourist :
Following information is useful for tourist of Jama Masjid.
1) Jama masjid is located in Old Delhi, Just opposite of the Red fort or Lal Quila.
2) Visitors can visit the Mosque daily from dawn to dusk. The mosque is closed during the prayer timing. Entry closed after 6 PM for women.
3) If visitors wants to only visit the mosque then no charges for that, but if they wants to carry a camera along with themselves then they should pay for that. I think Rs. 100/-
4) Visitors can visit the mosque at any time but the best time to visit the jama masjid is between October to March.
5) Enter in the mosque without shoes. Leave your shoes at the entrance.
Following information is useful for tourist of Jama Masjid.
1) Jama masjid is located in Old Delhi, Just opposite of the Red fort or Lal Quila.
2) Visitors can visit the Mosque daily from dawn to dusk. The mosque is closed during the prayer timing. Entry closed after 6 PM for women.
3) If visitors wants to only visit the mosque then no charges for that, but if they wants to carry a camera along with themselves then they should pay for that. I think Rs. 100/-
4) Visitors can visit the mosque at any time but the best time to visit the jama masjid is between October to March.
5) Enter in the mosque without shoes. Leave your shoes at the entrance.
Nice Collection
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