DID YOU KNOW ?

Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan to house the tomb of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died during childbirth. The Taj Mahal is renowned for its exquisite Mughal architecture, intricate marble work, and symmetrical beauty.

Key features of the Taj Mahal include:

1. Marble Dome: The central feature of the Taj Mahal is its large, white marble dome, which reaches a height of approximately 73 meters (240 feet) above the ground. The dome is surrounded by four smaller domed chhatris (pavilions) at each corner.

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   Taj Mahal

   Minarets: Flanking the main tomb are four tall minarets, each standing at approximately 40 meters (131 feet) high. These minarets are slightly tilted outward to prevent them from collapsing onto the main structure in the event of an earthquake.

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   Sun Set Veiw

   Marble Inlay Work: The Taj Mahal is adorned with intricate marble inlay work, featuring delicate floral motifs, calligraphy, and geometric patterns. Precious and semi-precious stones such as lapis lazuli, jasper, and jade were used to create the stunning designs.

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5. Reflecting Pool: In front of the Taj Mahal is a large reflecting pool known as the Charbagh Garden. The pool reflects the image of the monument, creating a mesmerizing sight, especially during sunrise and sunset.

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7. Main Mausoleum: The main mausoleum houses the cenotaphs of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan, surrounded by a finely carved marble screen. The actual tombs are located in a chamber below, not accessible to the public.

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   Yamuna River Veiw

   Symmetrical Layout: The Taj Mahal is known for its perfect symmetry, with identical features and architectural elements mirrored on all four sides of the monument.

9. Today, the Taj Mahal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited tourist attractions in India, drawing millions of visitors from around the world each year.

DID YOU KNOW

Akshardham Temple

Akshardham Temple, also known as Swaminarayan Akshardham, is one of the largest Hindu temples in the world and a major tourist attraction in Delhi, India. Here's an overview of this magnificent temple complex:

Location: Akshardham Temple is situated near the banks of the Yamuna River in the eastern part of Delhi. It is located close to the Noida Mor Metro Station, making it easily accessible by public transportation.

Architecture: The temple complex is known for its stunning architecture, which combines traditional Indian architectural styles with modern technology. The main monument features intricately carved sandstone and marble, with intricate sculptures, domes, and spires.

Main Temple: The central feature of Akshardham Temple is the main mandir (temple), dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan and his spiritual successor, Shri Akshar Purushottam Maharaj. The mandir is adorned with ornate carvings, depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and the life of Swaminarayan.

Exhibitions: One of the highlights of Akshardham Temple is its exhibitions, which showcase Indian culture, history, and spirituality. The exhibitions use state-of-the-art technology, multimedia presentations, and lifelike dioramas to educate visitors about various aspects of Indian heritage, including the life of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, India's contributions to science and technology, and the country's cultural diversity.

Musical Fountain Show: In the evenings, Akshardham Temple hosts a spectacular musical fountain show, which combines light, sound, and water effects to create a mesmerizing experience for visitors. The show typically narrates stories from Hindu mythology and celebrates the beauty of India's cultural heritage.

Gardens and Landscapes: The temple complex is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, water features, and sculptures, providing a serene environment for visitors to explore and relax.

Cultural Performances: Akshardham Temple often hosts cultural performances, including traditional music and dance shows, showcasing the rich artistic traditions of India.

Visiting Information: Entry to Akshardham Temple is free, but there are separate charges for the exhibitions and other attractions within the complex. Visitors are required to follow certain guidelines, including dress codes and security checks, before entering the temple premises.

Akshardham Temple is not only a religious site but also a cultural and educational center that attracts millions of visitors from around the world every year. It is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Delhi, offering a unique blend of spirituality, art, and technology.

DID YOU KNOW

 NALANDA UNIVERSITY

Nalanda University holds significant historical and cultural importance as one of the earliest centers of learning in the world. Located in present-day Bihar, India, it was established around the 5th century CE during the Gupta dynasty. The university flourished for several centuries, becoming a renowned center for education and attracting scholars and students from different parts of the world, including China, Korea, Japan, Tibet, Mongolia, Turkey, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia.

Here are some key points about Nalanda University:

Founding: Nalanda University was founded around the 5th century CE, though there's some debate about the exact date. It was founded under the patronage of Gupta emperors, particularly Kumaragupta.

Location: It was located in what is now Bihar, India, near the modern-day town of Bihar Sharif.

Curriculum: Nalanda offered a wide range of subjects including Buddhist studies, Hindu philosophy, logic, grammar, astronomy, medicine, and other traditional subjects of study.

Library: Nalanda was renowned for its vast library, which was said to contain millions of manuscripts. It was one of the most comprehensive libraries of the ancient world.

Architecture: The university complex was extensive and included classrooms, meditation halls, dormitories for students, and other facilities. The architecture was noted for its grandeur and intricate design.

Decline: Nalanda University faced multiple invasions over the centuries, including attacks by Turkic invaders led by Bakhtiyar Khilji in the 12th century. The university was razed to the ground, and many of its scholars and students were killed. This marked the beginning of its decline.

Legacy: Despite its eventual demise, Nalanda's legacy lived on. Its influence spread far and wide, and it played a crucial role in the transmission of knowledge between India and other parts of Asia. Many scholars who studied at Nalanda later traveled to different regions, spreading Indian philosophy, culture, and knowledge.

Revival: In modern times, there have been efforts to revive Nalanda University as a symbol of Asian intellectual cooperation and cultural exchange. In 2010, the Nalanda University Act was passed in the Indian Parliament, paving the way for the re-establishment of the university. The revived Nalanda University aims to be a center for excellence in education and research, focusing on the humanities, social sciences, and sustainable development.

Overall, Nalanda University stands as a testament to the rich intellectual heritage of ancient India and its contributions to global learning and scholarship.